Nairobi, Kenya — Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana has reflected on Kenya’s political and social journey since independence, highlighting key historical milestones that shaped the nation’s democracy and governance.
Speaking during a public forum, Kibwana emphasized the progress Kenya has made in constitutional reforms, devolution, and civic participation, while also raising concerns about the country’s political future beyond the 2027 general elections.
He noted that despite achievements in democratic growth, issues such as corruption, inequality, and weak institutions still threaten Kenya’s long-term stability. Kibwana urged leaders and citizens to embrace accountability and collective responsibility to safeguard the nation’s progress.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Lagos, Nigeria has recorded a sharp increase in fuel exports as several foreign refineries continue to experience shutdowns due to maintenance and operational challenges. Industry experts say the disruptions in overseas refining capacity have created supply gaps in regional and global markets, positioning the $20 billion Lagos-based refinery as a key supplier. The refinery, Africa’s largest, has already begun exporting refined products such as diesel and aviation fuel to markets across West Africa and beyond. Analysts note that the surge in exports highlights the strategic importance of Nigeria’s refining hub in ensuring regional energy security while also boosting foreign exchange earnings for the country. The Dangote Refinery, with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, is expected to progressively expand its product range to include petrol and other derivatives as operations scale up.
The Chairman of SAGAMA HOMES and SAGAMA Construction & Engineering Ltd, Alhaji Ali Nuhu, paid a special visit to an orphanage in Kano State, where he donated essential food items to support the orphans and their caregivers. The donation included rice, pasta, cooking oil, and other essential food supplies aimed at easing the burden of the orphanage, especially at a time when the prices of food items are rising in the markets. Speaking during the visit, Alhaji Ali Nuhu explained that the gesture was part of SAGAMA's commitment to community development, as well as a way of showing care to those who need it most. “Caring for orphans and the less privileged is a responsibility we all share as members of the community. This donation may be small compared to the real effort required, but it is a step towards supporting these children,” he said. The management of the orphanage expressed deep gratitude for the visit and the donation, appreciating Alhaji Ali Nuhu for his generosity and kindness. They also prayed for his continued success in all his endeavors. This humanitarian act further demonstrates that SAGAMA Construction Ltd is not only committed to construction and infrastructure projects but also plays a vital role in supporting social welfare and caring for the less privileged in society.
Importers in Nigeria have raised strong objections following a decision by an international shipping company to increase its surcharge fees by $500 per container. The development has sparked concerns among traders, freight forwarders, and industry stakeholders, who argue that the additional cost will further burden businesses already grappling with high exchange rates, inflation, and rising port charges. According to clearing agents at the Lagos ports, the sudden hike is unjustifiable and could lead to higher costs of imported goods in the Nigerian market. They stressed that consumers would ultimately bear the brunt, with prices of essential commodities likely to rise. Industry associations have called on the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) and the Federal Government to intervene, regulate shipping charges, and prevent arbitrary hikes that threaten trade facilitation. Analysts warn that if not addressed, the surcharge increment could discourage imports and worsen Nigeria’s cost-of-living crisis.
Nairobi, Kenya – Tragedy struck in the Kenyan capital on Friday as a prominent lawyer was shot dead in a drive-by shooting, sending shockwaves across the legal community and the wider public. Eyewitnesses reported that unidentified gunmen opened fire on the lawyer’s vehicle in Nairobi, killing him instantly before speeding away. The victim, whose identity has not yet been officially released, was said to have been involved in several high-profile cases. Police have since launched an investigation into the incident, describing it as a targeted attack. Authorities have assured the public that efforts are underway to track down the assailants. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has condemned the killing, calling it a direct attack on justice and the rule of law, while urging security agencies to ensure the perpetrators face justice. The shocking incident has renewed concerns about rising insecurity in Nairobi, with many Kenyans demanding stronger government measures to combat violent crime.
Lagos, Nigeria — A Nigerian migrant has recounted a harrowing ordeal in Libya, claiming his employer trapped him and forcibly drained his blood before he was eventually rescued and returned home. The victim, whose identity was withheld for security reasons, shared his story during a press briefing in Lagos, organized by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). According to him, what began as a search for greener pastures through irregular migration commonly referred to as “Japa” turned into a nightmare of forced labor, abuse, and exploitation. NAPTIP officials confirmed that several Nigerians have suffered similar abuses in parts of North Africa, warning citizens against falling prey to traffickers and deceptive job offers abroad. Human rights groups have renewed calls for stronger government interventions, stressing the need for awareness campaigns, rehabilitation programs, and safe migration pathways for young Nigerians.
Nairobi, Kenya — Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana has reflected on Kenya’s political and social journey since independence, highlighting key historical milestones that shaped the nation’s democracy and governance. Speaking during a public forum, Kibwana emphasized the progress Kenya has made in constitutional reforms, devolution, and civic participation, while also raising concerns about the country’s political future beyond the 2027 general elections. He noted that despite achievements in democratic growth, issues such as corruption, inequality, and weak institutions still threaten Kenya’s long-term stability. Kibwana urged leaders and citizens to embrace accountability and collective responsibility to safeguard the nation’s progress.
The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has declared that he would be a “perfect match” with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in the build-up to the 2027 general elections. Mohammed, who made this remark while addressing party stakeholders, described Makinde as a strong ally and a political leader with vision. He hinted that a strategic alliance could play a key role in shaping the future of Nigerian politics. The governor emphasized the need for unity and collaboration among leaders across regions to ensure a formidable platform for the ruling party in 2027. While he did not explicitly confirm his political ambition, his comments have fueled fresh debates on possible political realignments ahead of the next general elections.
Former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel, and incumbent Governor, Dapo Abiodun, have remained silent following the suspension of another ex-governor by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. The suspension, announced by a faction of the party, has triggered heated debates within Ogun APC, with some members alleging political witch-hunt while others insist it is a disciplinary measure. Despite the controversy, both Daniel and Abiodun have declined to issue official statements on the matter, fueling speculations about possible divisions and behind-the-scenes political maneuvering within the ruling party. Analysts suggest their silence may be a calculated move to avoid deepening intra-party tensions ahead of the 2027 elections. However, grassroots supporters are demanding clarity from the state leadership to forestall further crisis. The APC in Ogun has faced recurring internal wrangling in recent years, with rival factions battling for control of the party structure.