Google Signs Power Purchase Agreement for Offshore Wind Projects

In a significant move towards greening its power supply, technology giant Google has inked its largest-ever power purchase agreement (PPA) with offshore wind projects situated off the coast of the Netherlands.  This strategic initiative aligns with Google’s commitment to meeting climate targets while promoting sustainable energy solutions. As reported by Reuters, renewable power project developers are increasingly opting for long-term PPAs to ensure revenue security, while corporate buyers like Google are eager to secure a stable supply chain to fulfill their clean energy goals. Google’s landmark offshore wind PPA entails the procurement of 478 megawatts (MW) of power from two cutting-edge wind farms developed by Crosswind & Ecowende Consortia.  These joint ventures, helmed by energy giants Shell and Dutch utility Eneco, exemplify collaborative efforts in advancing renewable energy initiatives. Additionally, Google has revealed smaller-scale renewable PPAs in Italy, Poland, and Belgium, underscoring its global commitment to sustainable energy practices.  However, specific financial details of these agreements remain undisclosed. Matt Brittin, President of Google in EMEA, emphasized the company’s overarching ambition to operate on carbon-free energy round the clock by 2030.  This vision necessitates clean energy solutions across all grids where Google operates, signifying a steadfast dedication to environmental sustainability. While many companies pursue renewable energy goals on an annual basis, typically matching PPAs or renewable energy certificate purchases with their yearly electricity consumption, Google stands out with its forward-thinking approach.  The tech giant aims to synchronize each hour of electricity consumed with an equivalent hour of clean power production, a methodology hailed by proponents for its accurate reflection of companies’ actual energy usage patterns.

‘Your Accusation Is Baseless And Reckless’ – Tinubu Replies Atiku

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has berated former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his accusation of fiddling amidst the security and economic challenges facing the nation. Atiku had, in a post via his official X handle on Tuesday, called on President Tinubu to step aside if he knows the responsibilities of being Nigeria’s President are bigger than his capacity. The former vice president, who faulted Tinubu for embarking on a private trip to France in the wake of the incessant kidnapping currently ravaging the nation, said that Nigeria does not need another tourist-in-chief. But in a statement on Tuesday night, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the accusation made by Atiku is baseless and reckless. Onanuga stated that the latest statement made by the former vice president fell short of what is expected from an elder statesman after should stop playing politics with the insecurity facing the nation. He said President Tinubu informed Nigerians of his private visit to France, and while in Europe, the President has been following developments at home, and he is on top of the situation in the country. Onanuga said the President is in constant touch with his officials and security chiefs and has directed them to stamp out every form of criminality in the country. The presidential aide asserted that Atiku is still suffering from his electoral defeat and latches on any issue to attack President Tinubu. The statement reads: “Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s statement accusing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of fiddling amidst some security and economic challenges is, to say the least, reckless. “Coming days after he made an equally reckless allegation against the President on the crude for a loan deal for NNPC Limited, his latest statement fell short of what is expected from an elder statesman. “We like to believe that Alhaji Atiku is still not nursing the hangover of his electoral defeat and now latches on any issue to attack President Tinubu. “President Tinubu did not travel without informing Nigerians of his whereabouts. He announced a private visit to France and announced a return date. “While in France, President Tinubu has been following developments at home, and he is on top of the situation in the country. Today’s inauguration of the Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage bore his imprimatur. “He is in constant touch with his officials and security chiefs and has directed them to stamp out every form of criminality in the country. “He has particularly ordered them to apprehend those criminals responsible for the murder of two monarchs in Ekiti State and the kidnapping of some pupils in the state. “We are already seeing results with the arrest of over 139 kidnappers around Abuja, Kaduna and Benue States in the last one week. The police Special Intervention Squad (SIS) and DSS have also rescued 154 abducted persons in the last few days. “Just last week President Tinubu approved N50billion as Special Fund to address some of the lingering security challenges in North East where Alhaji Atiku hails from. To cope with the kidnapping challenges in the FCT, President Tinubu also approved funds for the acquisition of equipment to track criminals. “If Alhaji Atiku is really concerned about security issues and not playing cheap politics, he should have known that President Tinubu is on top of issues and working hard to restore peace to every part of our country. “Our security agencies are working very hard to bring the security situation under control. President Tinubu is giving them all the necessary support they need to win the battle against criminal elements and secure every inch of our country.”

New Minimum Wage Committee Holds First Meeting

The 37 man National Minimum Wage Committee has held its first meeting in Abuja. The meeting was held shortly after the committee was inaugurated on Tuesday, 30th January, by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the council chamber of the Aso Rock Villa. The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the committee’s first meeting in a short statement via his X account in which he reacted to the inauguration of the committee by Vice President Shettima. According to him, the committee held their first meeting at the State House Banquet Hall. The presidential aide also commended Tinubu for fulfilling his promise of setting up the new minimum wage committee. He wrote: “Promise kept: Vice President Kashim Shettima inaugurates the 37-man National Minimum Wage Committee in Abuja. The committee members, among whom are six governors, held their first meeting at the State House Banquet Hall.” Membership of the Committee, which cuts across Federal Government, State Government, Private Sector and Organised Labour are as follows: From the Federal Government, the members include Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Hon. Minister of State, Labour and Employment (Representing Hon. Minister of Labour and Employment); Mr. Wale Edun, Hon. Minister of Finance & Coordinating Minister of the Economy;Alhaji Atiku Bagudu, Hon. Minister of Budget Economic Planning; Dr. (Mrs) Yemi Esan, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation; Dr. Nnamdi Maurice Mbaeri, Permanent Secretary, GSO. OSGF and Ekpo Nta, Esq, Chairman/CEO, NSIWC – Member/Secretary. Also from the State Government, Alh. Mohammed Umar Bago, Governor, Niger State- representative from North Central; Sen. Bala Mohammed, Governor Bauchi State- representative from North East; Alh. Umar Dikko Radda, Governor Katsina State- representative from North West;Prof. Charles Soludo, Governor, Anambra State- representative from the South East; Sen. Ademola Adeleke, Governor, Osun State- representative from South West; Mr. Otu Bassey Edet, Governor, Cross River State- representative from South South. From the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA)- Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, Director-General, NECA; Mr. Chuma Nwankwo; Mr. Thompson Akpabio with also members from the Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA)include Asiwaju (Dr) Michael Olawale-Cole, National President; Hon. (Dr) Ahmed Rabiu, National Vice President and Chief Humphrey Ngonadi (NPOM), National Life President. The membership from the National Association of Small and Medium Enterprise (NASME) are Dr. Abdulrashid Yerima, President & Chairman of Council; Hon. Theophilus Nnorom Okwuchukwu, Private Sector representative;Dr. Muhammed Nura Bello, Zonal Vice President, North West and also from the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) are Mrs. Grace Omo-Lamai, Human Resource Director, Nigerian Breweries;Segun Ajayi-Kadir, mni, Director-General, MAN; Lady Ada Chukwudozie, Managing Director, Dozzy Oil and Gas Limited. From the organised labour, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Comrade Joe Ajaero, President, NLC; Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja, mni; Comrade Prince Adeyanju Adewale; Comrade Ambali Akeem Olatunji; Comrade Benjamin Anthony and Prof. Theophilius Ndukuba. Also, membership from the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) include Comrade (Engr) Festus Osifo, President, TUC; Comrade Tommy Etim Okon, PhD, Deputy President I, TUC; Comrade Kayode Surajudeen Alakija, Deputy President II;Comrade Jimoh Oyibo, Deputy President. III; Comrade Nuhu A. Toro, Secretary-General and Comrade Hafusatu Shuaib, Chairperson Women Comm.

Supreme Court Delivers Judgment On Suit Seeking To Sack Tinubu As President

The appeal filed by Hope Democratic Party presidential candidate Ambrose Owuru against the administrations of President Bola Tinubu and the immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari, was struck out by the Supreme Court on Monday. The Independent National Electoral Commission and the Attorney General of the Federation are joined as the respondents in this appeal. Owuru’s appeal was turned down by the lower court. In dismissing the appeal, the appeal court found that Owuru had engaged in egregious procedural abuse by inciting the respondents with a pointless, vexatious, and vexing lawsuit. The appellate court further stated that Owuru’s attempt to revive the Supreme Court matter that had died in 2019 was intended to put subordinate courts in direct conflict with the supreme court’s authority. After that, the court mandated that he give N10 million to Buhari, Tinubu, the AGF, and INEC. Owuru had argued that Buhari, the outgoing president, had infringed upon his tenure in 2019 when the Supreme Court declined to hear his appeal contesting Buhari’s designation as the election’s victor. In addition, he requested another order barring any sort of handover inauguration that Buhari had planned or approved for May 29, 2023, until his appeal before the highest court had been decided. Dissatisfied with the judgment, Owuru approached the Supreme Court for redress. The appellant’s attorney, Olawuyi Olaoluwa, asked the court to adjourn the hearing when it was summoned on Monday. He added that he had just called early on Monday to represent the appellant. Justice Okoro questioned Olaoluwa about his knowledge of the case’s facts, to which he replied that he had not looked over the procedures. AGF attorney, Adedayo Ogundele urged the court to dismiss the appeal, claiming it constituted a misuse of the legal system. Okoro cautioned him against pursuing a similar case in the future. He said, “There is no substance in this matter. If it were a SAN that brought this matter, he would have been fined. As a young lawyer don’t take this kind of case again. It is not good for your career.” Olaoluwa afterward, applied to withdraw the matter. The five-member panel led by John Okoro dismissed the appeal.

CBN to Assume Control of Crude Sales, as President Tinubu Unveils Sweeping Reforms in Oil Sector

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to assume responsibility for crude oil sales, a move aimed at addressing longstanding concerns about opaque practices and declining oil revenue under the management of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). The action is to enhance transparency and efficiency in Nigeria’s oil industry, marking a significant departure from the previous exclusive control by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). Under the previous structure, the NNPC held sole authority over crude oil sales, submitting accounts solely to the federal government. Critics argued that this arrangement lacked transparency, allowing the NNPC to potentially underreport earnings. This directive mandates the NNPC to submit all receipts for crude oil sales to the CBN for thorough vetting and documentation. The objective is to eliminate any potential gaps in reporting and to ensure accurate records of oil revenue. It can be recalled that last week, the CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso called for collaborative effort with the Ministry of Finance and the NNPCL, highlighting its impact on foreign exchange flows and the accretion of reserves. Speaking at the launch of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) “2024 Macroeconomic Outlook Report,” Cardoso outlined strategic reforms designed to foster transparency and stability in the foreign exchange market. “The expected stability in the foreign exchange market for 2024 can be attributed to the reduction in petroleum product imports and the recent implementation of a market-determine exchange rate policy by the CBN.” “This reform is designed to streamline and unify multiple exchange rates, fostering transparency and reducing opportunities for arbitrage.” He further highlighted the comprehensive strategy to improve liquidity in the foreign exchange markets, addressing fundamental issues that have hindered effective operations over the years. The ongoing independent forensic review aims to clear the backlog of valid FX transactions, demonstrating the commitment to upholding the integrity of financial markets.

Tinubu Mourns As Ex Nigerian President Loses Sister

President Bola Tinubu has condoled with Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, over the death of his sister, Hajiya Salamatu Asabe. Tinubu’s message to the General on Monday on the passing of his younger sister was contained in a statement. According to the statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale: “It is with a heavy heart that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu receives the news of the passing of Hajiya Salamatu Asabe, the younger sister of former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd).  “President Tinubu condoles with General Abubakar, the family, and all those who mourn this painful loss. “The President prays that her family is comforted by her legacy and the beautiful memories she left behind.” Ngelale quoted President Tinubu as having said: “General, please accept my sympathy and condolences.  “My prayers are with you at this time of mourning.  “May Almighty Allah grant Hajiya Asabe Aljannah firdaus.”

AFCON: Akpabio hails Super Eagles, charges them to conquer Africa

Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio has applauded the Super Eagles of Nigeria for beating the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon to qualify for the quarter finals of the ongoing TotalEnergies CAF African Cup of Nations. Akpabio, in a congratulatory message to the Nigerian team signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh said with the Saturday’s triumph over Cameroon, the Super Eagles have proven they have the wherewithal to beat any team in Africa. The resourcefulness and industry of the Super Eagles from Godswill Akpabio International Stadium(nest of champions)in Uyo to Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan is never in doubt. Praising the Super Eagles for their resilient, tactical discipline, and team work, the Senate President said “I felt proud watching the Super Eagles demobilize the lions. “Apart from dominating the Indomitable Lions, the Super Eagles tamed the Lions and made them looked ordinary. That is the Nigerian spirit. I congratulate you for making million of Nigerians proud”, he stated. The Senate President noted that the Super Eagles opponents in the quarter finals, the Palancas Negras of Angola is not a pushover but expressed optimism that Nigeria will triumph over them. “Your opponents in the quarter finals are also a strong side. But I strongly believe that with determination, right tactics and team work, you will subdue them. “While I congratulate you for advancing to this stage of the competition, I urge you not to be complacent but continue to be focused and resilient. We are behind you and all Nigerians are supporting you. “Do not look back but go on and bring home the trophy”, he charged the Eagles.

Police Declares Same-Sex Marriage Illegal, Vows To Arrest Perpetrators

The Nigeria Police Force has warned Nigerians to steer clear of same-sex marriage as it is illegal in the country, saying anyone caught in the act of same-sex marriage in the country would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law. The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who issued the warning on Thursday in a statement, said that in accordance with the Nigerian Criminal Code Act applicable in Southern states of Nigeria, unnatural offences are prohibited under Sections 214 to 217. According to Adejobi, the prohibition is re-echoed by Section 284 of the Nigerian Penal Code applicable in the Northern part of the country. He said that “Following recent trend on social media where some individuals who identify as queer were visibly encouraging and associating themselves with activities perceived to be unnatural in light of Nigerian Laws, the Nigeria Police Force hereby wishes to enlighten the public on the legal aspects concerning unnatural offences and same-sex marriage within the country. “In accordance with the Nigerian Criminal Code Act applicable in Southern States, unnatural offences are prohibited under Sections 214 to 217. “These sections specifically criminalize acts considered unnatural, such as having carnal knowledge of a person, or permitting a person to have carnal knowledge of one against the order of nature, or having carnal knowledge of an animal, and those found guilty may face legal consequences as outlined by the law. “This is re-echoed by Section 284 of the Nigerian Penal Code applicable in the Northern part of the country. “Similarly, it is imperative to note that same-sex marriage is strictly prohibited in Nigeria. The Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2014 criminalizes the solemnization, operation, and public display of same-sex marriages. “We therefore emphasize the importance of understanding and adhering to these laws as any violation will be met with due legal processes. “We remain dedicated to maintaining law and order and call on all citizens to report all suspicious activities related to unnatural offences or same-sex marriage, providing crucial information that will aid our efforts to enforce the law. “We need to collectively kick against such while we urge parents and guardians to take note and support the Police in the fight against such inhuman activities which are alien to our culture and also punishable under the law.”

Why there is a drop in power supply across the country – TCN

The Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, has revealed the reason for the drop in power supply nationwide. According to Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s general manager of public affairs, gas constraints on thermal generating companies resulted in low power generation across the country. She said the situation had impacted the quantum of bulk power available on the transmission grid for onward transmission to the distribution load centres nationwide. The statement reads: “The Transmission Company of Nigeria TCN hereby announces that there has been a gradual decrease in available generation into the grid due to gas constraints to the thermal generating companies, which has impacted the quantum of bulk power available on the transmission grid for onward transmission to the distribution load centres nationwide. “TCN is doing everything possible in collaboration with stakeholders in the power sector to ensure that it keeps the grid intact despite the current low power generated into the system. “Consequent to the current load on the grid, load distributed to the distribution load centres have also been reduced, as TCN can only transmit what is generated. “TCN is committed to ensuring a gradual increase in electricity supply to load centres as gas improves to the power available thermal plants. “Please bear with us as we continue to work with the stakeholders in the value chain to ensure that supply through distribution companies to electricity consumers nationwide improves”, the company stated.

AFCON: ‘Tinubu not impressed with your performance’, minister tells Super Eagles players

President Bola Tinubu has urged the Super Eagles to improve their performance and do better in the final stages of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire. Tinubu’s message was through the Minister of Sports, John Enoh, who spoke to the players from Abuja via Zoom on Wednesday night in Abidjan. According to Enoh, the President was not too impressed with the showing of the team during the group stage. He said, “I had a meeting with the President yesterday. I went to the villa for something else and the President cornered me and said we (Eagles) managed to qualify and I said that’s how we are going to keep going until we win the tournament. “He said that I should tell the players that he wasn’t too impressed with the last match but he knows that now that they are off the group stages, they are going to impress him more. “That’s what the President told me and it means that the President is actually watching your matches. Would you believe this? And the President is urging you and also showing an understanding of the game because he knows that there is a lot of caution at the group stage and from the round of 16, you are going to be more impressive. “I remember that in 2022 in Cameroon, Egypt as a country struggled to qualify but they went ahead to play the finals.” Responding, team captain, Ahmed Musa, thanked the sports minister but also called on the President to come to see them play live saying it would serve as a motivation to the players. The Super Eagles will play the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in the last 16 of the tournament on Saturday at the Felix Houphouet -Boigny Stadium in Abidjan.