The National Press Newspaper cover for Thursday April 23, 2026
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/the-national-press-newspaper-cover-for-thursday-april-23-2026/
Tinubu Approves Relief For Airlines Amid Jet A1 Fuel Hike
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/tinubu-approves-relief-for-airlines-amid-jet-a1-fuel-hike/
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on Wednesday, disclosed key Federal Government interventions aimed at reducing the financial pressure on airlines following rising concerns over the cost of Jet A1 fuel and the threat of service disruptions in the aviation sector.
The Minister made the disclosure after hours of meeting with a delegation from the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, airline operators, and oil marketers, among other stakeholders.
The meeting was convened in response to the sharp increase in aviation fuel prices, which operators say has become unsustainable.
Keyamo stated that President Bola Tinubu has approved a generous discount on certain outstanding fees owed to the Federal Government by airline operators.
He explained that the decision is part of efforts to provide immediate relief to the sector and prevent a breakdown in air transport services.
He also revealed that in the coming days, the President will constitute a special committee to review and reduce multiple taxes and levies currently embedded in airfares.
According to him, the move is intended to ease the burden on both airline operators and passengers, while improving the overall sustainability of the aviation industry.
The development comes amid growing tension within the sector over the soaring cost of Jet A1 fuel, which operators have described as a major threat to continued operations and aviation stability in the country.
Ambassador-Designate To Algeria Mohammed Lele Dies In Turkey
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/ambassador-designate-to-algeria-mohammed-lele-dies-in-turkey/
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the passing of the ambassador-designate to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, Mohammed Lele.
Lele was said to have died in the early hours of April 19, 2026, in Ankara, Türkiye, after a protracted illness.
Until his death, he was the director in charge of the Middle East and Gulf Division in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The ministry, in a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, on Wednesday, described the deceased as a dedicated, meticulous, and exemplary diplomat who “served the nation with steadfast loyalty and distinction”.
It stated that during his enviable career, Lele was known for his intellectual depth, strategic insight, and commitment to the advancement of Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.
“Therefore, his sudden demise is a monumental loss not only to his immediate family but also to the entire Foreign Service community and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, PhD who was personally at the International Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja with Directors from the Ministry to receive the remains of the late Ambassador on Tuesday, 2026 to pay his last respect upon arrival from Istanbul, Türkiye, describes Ambassador Lele as a hardworking, humble and fine officer, who will be sorely missed by the Ministry,” the statement partly read.
Born in Gamawa, in the Gamawa Local Government Area of Bauchi State, in 1976, Lele was a graduate of Economics from Bayero University, Kano, and joined the Nigerian foreign service in 2001.
He also served in Nigerian missions in Germany, Togo, and Saudi Arabia, before he was recently appointed by President Bola Tinubu as ambassador-designate to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, following the Nigerian Senate’s confirmation of his nomination.
Lele was buried on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, according to Islamic rites in Kano, Kano State.
“The Ministry extends its heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, friends, associates, and the government and people of Bauchi State, and prays for the peaceful repose of his soul, the strength for his loved ones during this difficult time, and the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss,” it added.
We shall deepen ties with the UK as British Airways celebrates 90 years of air service to Nigeria
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/we-shall-deepen-ties-with-the-uk-as-british-airways-celebrates-90-years-of-air-service-to-nigeria/
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening economic relations with the United Kingdom, particularly in the aviation sector and other mutually beneficial areas.
President Tinubu gave the assurance when he met with a delegation from British Airways led by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery and the Commercial Officer of British Airways, Mr Colm Lacy, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The President, while highlighting the longstanding and productive partnership between both countries, noted that Nigeria places great value on its strategic relationship with Britain.
President Tinubu particularly reflected on his very recent historic visit to the United Kingdom and the wonderful reception he received from the Royal family.
He assured the delegation that the partnership will continue to create opportunities for growth, investment, and shared prosperity.
“It is a very great joy to share with you this afternoon. The transformation and strengthening of our relationship over the past 90 years is a milestone worthy of celebration. And I still relish the memory of my last visit to Great Britain and the wonderful reception I received from His Majesty King Charles III. I will forever cherish that memory.
“We also hold in high regard our relationship with His Majesty the King. His long-standing commitment to sustainability and to strengthening the Commonwealth, particularly the relationship between Nigeria and Great Britain, must continue to enhance cooperation that aligns with our own national priorities.
“I assure you we will continue to do that, and this engagement confirmed the bilateral relations that we’ve enjoyed over the years. Our forebears wanted us to continue,” the President said.
President Tinubu acknowledged the critical role of British Airways in fostering economic and people-to-people connections between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, saying that Nigeria is undergoing reforms to strengthen the economy and state institutions.
“Nigeria is still going through the reforms and transformation of our aviation industry and every aspect of our economy. We must meet global standards and encourage people-to-people connections while promoting the essence of trade and partnership in this sector.
The President further expressed appreciation to the British Government for the numerous business and investment opportunities extended to Nigeria over the years.
“We celebrate with you your remarkable 90 years of operation in Nigeria, and we hope we will continue to enhance and encourage that relationship for a stronger and more rewarding partnership”, he said.
He also informed the visitors that one of the earliest achievements of his administration was settling outstanding liabilities owed by airlines operating in Nigeria.
“You’ve seen that since I assumed office, the outstanding liabilities and other hiccups that are hindrances to our relationship are being resolved by the Central Bank of Nigeria, and we hope to strengthen all of that,” he said.
In his remarks, Colm Lacy chronicled the airways’ long-standing relationship with Nigeria, saying the airways have served generations of Nigerians for the past 90 years, helping in trade, investments and opportunities on both sides.
He said Nigeria was not just a destination for the airways, but a long-standing valued customer.”
“Our relationship began in 1936 and has journeyed across generations. Nigeria is not simply a destination but a long-standing, most valued market in a country with which we share strong people-to-people, business, educational, and cultural ties.
“Every day our services support Nigerian entrepreneurs, students, families and tourists connecting from Nigeria to the United Kingdom and all over the world, helping in trade, investment and opportunities in both directions,” he said.
Lacy lauded the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Airports Authority for their commitment and professionalism, which, according to him, has enhanced a credible and safe aviation in Nigeria.
He also commended the Central Bank of Nigeria for its commitment to resolving foreign exchange matters and restoring the confidence of foreign airlines operating in Nigeria.
Earlier, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development told the gathering that British Airways now operates brand new aircraft on the London-Nigerian route.
Keyamo also said the airline had fully complied with the federal government’s policy to support local caterers by serving local dishes on international outbound flights.
Also speaking, the UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, expressed delight at the 90-year relationship between British Airways and Nigeria.
The envoy also thanked the President for his successful state visit to the United Kingdom, during which several business agreements were signed to boost trade and economic ties between the two nations.
“I know that their Majesties, the King and the Queen, were delighted with the visit. And I hope that your excellency and your team feel satisfied about the substance, not just the ceremony, that some very big investment deals were agreed, including the rehabilitation of Lagos Ports, which we are delighted to support with financing and UK content,” he said.
wale
Wale Edun, former Finance Minister, and Musa Dangiwa, Housing Minister, resigned; they were not sacked
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/wale-edun-former-finance-minister-and-musa-dangiwa-housing-minister-resigned-they-were-not-sacked/
Former Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, duly tendered his resignation from office, citing health reasons, before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced his replacement on Tuesday.
Also, the former Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, similarly resigned and thanked the President for the opportunity given him to serve in the Federal Executive Council.
Edun, who clocked 70 on Monday and has battled recent ill health, fittingly submitted his resignation letter on his birthday, thanking the President for the opportunity to serve Nigeria.
“It has been a pleasure and privilege to serve your administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda”, his letter read.
“Under your leadership, Nigeria has emerged stronger, more resilient and more internationally respected.
“I wish you and the administration every success in the future”, he wrote.
On Tuesday, before the Office of the Secretary of the Government of the Federation announced his departure from the Cabinet, Edun paid a valedictory visit to the President at the Villa. He held an hour-long discussion with the president and then left to focus on his private businesses.
Dangiwa, an architect, previously served as the managing director of the Federal Mortgage Bank between 2015 and 2022, as well as Secretary to the Katsina State Government, before President Tinubu appointed him as housing minister in August 2023.
Edun, an economist and investment banker, served as Lagos State commissioner for finance between 1999 and 2004, during the tenure of then Governor Bola Tinubu.
Before then, he worked from 1980 to 1986 at Chase Merchant Bank (later Continental) in Lagos. He joined the World Bank in September 1986 through the elite Young Professionals program, where he worked on economic and financial packages for several countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.
In 1989, he co-founded Investment Banking & Trust Company Limited (now Stanbic IBTC) and served as executive director. In 1994, he founded Denham Management Limited, which has since become the Chapelhill Denham Group. He served as chairman from 2008 to 2021.
President Tinubu has expressed deep appreciation to Edun and Dangiwa for their dedicated service and significant contributions to the administration’s economic reform programme and wished them continued success in their future endeavours.
In the same vein, the President has urged the new Minister of Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, to consolidate ongoing reforms and advance the administration’s fiscal and economic objectives with renewed focus, discipline, and innovation.
President Tinubu will shortly send the ministerial nominee for housing, Muttaqha Rabe Darma, also from Katsina, like Dangiwa, to the Senate for confirmation.
Happy birthday to Bimbo Akeju
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/happy-birthday-to-bimbo-akeju-from-u-s-a/
On behalf of everyone at the National Press Newspaper, we are delighted to celebrate this special day with you.Your continued support and loyalty as one of our valued readers truly mean a greater deal with us.
Happy birthday to you. We wish you more years with grace
kano deputy
Atiku’s son inlaw for screening as Kano Deputy governor, Monday
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/atikus-son-in-law-emerge-as-deputy-governor/
Kano State House of Assembly has fixed Monday April 27 for screening of Murtala Sule Garo, the son-in-law of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, for the position of Deputy Governor.
Jibrin Ismaila Falgore, Speaker, Kano State House of Assembly who officially confirmed receiving official letter of request from the Governor Abbar Yusuff on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 also confirmed that the screening and confirmation proceedings will take place this coming Monday.
The nominee, Murtala Sule Garo is a seasoned politician who served as the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate in 2023 and is married to Atiku’s daughter, Walida.
It would be recalld that the position became vacant following the resignation of Abdussalam Gwarzo on March 27, 2026. Gwarzo’s exit followed political friction after Governor Yusuf defected from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the APC.
The nomination was made under Section 191(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which grants the governor the power to nominate a replacement when a vacancy occurs.
Garo’s selection follows reports of extensive consultations with APC stakeholders in Kano, where he reportedly secured significant support from various party factions.
Adelabu resigns
Adelabu Resigns as Nigeria’s Power Minister
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/adelabu-resigns-as-nigerias-power-minister/
Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has formally resigned from his position following a high-level meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The meeting, held on Tuesday, provided an opportunity for Adelabu to present a comprehensive account of his stewardship of the nation’s power sector over the past two and a half years. His presentation detailed policy initiatives, structural reforms, and operational interventions undertaken during his tenure, as well as the progress made in addressing longstanding challenges within Nigeria’s electricity value chain.
During the engagement, the outgoing Minister highlighted key milestones recorded under his leadership.
These included sustained efforts to stabilise electricity generation amid persistent gas supply constraints, strategic initiatives to enhance transmission wheeling capacity, and targeted reforms within the distribution segment aimed at improving service delivery, metering, and revenue collection. He also emphasised government actions to strengthen sector governance, improve regulatory oversight, and attract private sector investment into critical power infrastructure.
A central feature of the presentation was the unveiling and detailed briefing on the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP), alongside its accompanying Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP), and the Medium- to Long-Term Integrated Resource Plan for the Power Sector. These frameworks collectively represent one of the most comprehensive policy blueprints for Nigeria’s electricity sector in recent years.
kano
Supreme Court Reserves Judgment On PDP vs Sule Lamido And Others Also ADC Leadership Dispute
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/supreme-court-reserves-judgment-on-pdp-vs-sule-lamido-others-also-adc-leadership-disputes/
The supreme court has reserved judgement in the appeal filed by the peoples Democratic party where it is challenging the judgment of the court of appeal that nullified the PDP IBADAN convention in 2025.
There is a main appeal by the TURAKI led PDP faction challenging the judgment of the court of appeal which nullified the PDP IBADAN convention in November 2025.
The prayer before the Apex court as enumerated by the the Appellants counsel Chris Uche SAN is for the court to upturn the judgment on the ground of jurisdiction as both the federal High court and the court of appeal erred when they presided over the case knowing that it was a party’s internal affairs. They pray the court to make a declarative pronouncement for INEC to recognize the officials that were elected at the IBADAN convention.
But, the respondents counsel in the appeal by Joseph Daudu SAN drew the attention of the court to the issues raised by the Appellants, saying the argument that the lower courts dabbled into the party’s internal affairs is not correct as the issues lies with the statutory duties of INEC who gives legitimacy to party’s affairs and prayed the court to dismiss the appeal.
Counsel adopted their briefs of address in both the main and cross appeals.
The panel of justices led by the Justice Mohammed Lawal Garba therefore announced that date of judgment would be communicated to senior counsel.
Lagos
Lagos unveils guidelines for monthly sanitation, to reward cleanest LGAs, streets
https://the-national-press-newspaper.co.uk/lagos-unveils-guidelines-for-monthly-sanitation-to-reward-cleanest-lgas-streets/
The Lagos government has announced modalities for the monthly environmental sanitation exercise ahead of its return on April 25.
In an X post on Wednesday, Tokunbo Wahab, commissioner for environment and water resources, said the exercise will hold on the last Saturday of every month between 6:30am and 8:30am.
“Following the symbolic flag off of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise along the Mushin Agege Motor Road corridor on Saturday, March 14th, 2026, I wish to provide further clarity on the modalities of the programme as we prepare for the first exercise on Saturday, April 25th, 2026,” the post reads.
