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Blackouts: FG moves to resolve gas supply crisis

Published

3 weeks ago

March 20, 2026

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has said Nigerians will soon begin to enjoy improved electricity supply as the Federal Government moves to resolve ongoing gas constraints affecting generation.

Adelabu made this known in his Eid-el-Fitr message on Thursday, where he noted that recent interventions by the government are beginning to address persistent gas supply challenges that have limited power generation across the country.

According to him, the government is implementing concrete measures to ensure a reliable supply for homes and businesses.

“Concrete measures are being implemented to ensure more reliable and sustainable electricity for homes, businesses, and industries. The reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu are beginning to take root, and Nigerians will soon witness the full benefits,” he said.

The PUNCH recently reported that gas suppliers halted supply to thermal power plants over an estimated N3.3tn debt owed by power generation companies, a development that had deepened the nationwide power shortage.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Power Generation Companies, Dr Joy Ogaji, disclosed this, warning that the mounting debt across the power value chain is pushing the sector toward a major crisis.

Her comments came amid worsening electricity supply across the country, with many Nigerians experiencing prolonged blackouts since the beginning of the year.

Data from the Nigerian Independent System Operator shows that power generation dropped below 4,000 megawatts in recent weeks, largely due to gas constraints affecting thermal power plants, making the reliable supply of electricity impossible across their franchise areas.

The minister expressed optimism that ongoing efforts would translate into noticeable improvements in electricity supply in the near term, stressing that resolving gas constraints remains central to stabilising the power sector.

Electricity consumers, regardless of the supply bands they belong to, have continued to lament the situation, especially amid rising fuel prices and the severe heat.

Recently, NISO provided operational data illustrating the scale of the shortfall, noting that thermal power plants require an estimated 1,629.75 million standard cubic feet of gas per day to operate at optimal capacity. However, as of February 23, 2026, actual supply stood at about 692.00 mmscf per day—representing less than 43 per cent of the required volume.

Several power generation companies have repeatedly appealed to electricity consumers for patience, stating that the worsening gas constraints are beyond their control.

The situation has left many homes and businesses struggling with prolonged outages, raising fears that the electricity supply may deteriorate further if the financial impasse in the power sector is not urgently resolved.

He explained that the government’s broader reform agenda is designed to unlock efficiency across the electricity value chain, adding that sustained progress would depend on continued public support and alignment with policy direction.

However, Adelabu, in its message on Thursday, urged Nigerians to maintain patience and commitment, noting that the challenges currently being experienced are part of a transition towards a more reliable and sustainable power system.

“The challenges we face today are, without doubt, the building blocks of a more prosperous tomorrow,” he said.

The minister further called on citizens to sustain the spirit of discipline and sacrifice cultivated during Ramadan, urging collective responsibility in supporting national development efforts.

He added that ongoing engagements by the president, including recent meetings in the United Kingdom, are expected to attract investment into critical sectors such as power, ultimately strengthening infrastructure and service delivery.

Adelabu emphasised that with continued reforms and cooperation, the government remains confident of delivering improved electricity supply to Nigerians in line with its development objectives.

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Borno / Yobe border airstrike: Military reveals why they struck

Published

7 hours ago

April 13, 2026

Newsbreak365_Admin

The Air Component of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has conducted a precision air strike on a known terrorist enclave and logistics hub located near the abandoned village of Jilli in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State.

This was contained in a statement made available to defence correspondents in Abuja on Sunday by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North-East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba.

According to the statement, the successful strike, executed on Saturday, 11 April 2026, followed sustained Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions over the Bindul–Jilli axis, an area long identified as a major terrorist movement corridor and convergence point for Islamic State West Africa Province terrorists and their collaborators.

The statement recalled that in January 2026, troops moving from Gubio towards Damasak came under a major Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack along the road at Bindul, resulting in the tragic loss of eight soldiers, while several others were wounded in action.

It further explained that more recently, on April 9, coordinated attacks were recorded in Ngamdu and Benisheik, supported by the same terrorist logistics network. This consequently prompted the Theatre to intensify overhead surveillance and intelligence gathering across the area in response to persistent reports of terrorist movement and logistics activity.

It added that on 11 April 2026, multiple reports were received of ISWAP gun trucks (GT) and motorcycles (MC) moving along the axis. Consequently, ISR coverage over the area was immediately intensified.

According to the statement, during the surveillance mission, a contingent of motorcycles was observed moving in the direction of Jilli, followed shortly by several additional vehicles, all converging on the same location.

The statement reads: “These suspicious movements were subsequently corroborated by credible human intelligence sources, confirming that the converging elements were terrorists, their collaborators, and logistics handlers.

“In line with established operational procedures, a rigorous and professional targeting process was undertaken. Target fidelity was confirmed through multiple credible human intelligence sources, supported by persistent aerial surveillance.

“Upon final validation, the air component executed a series of precision strikes on the objective, while surveillance platforms maintained continuous overwatch for real-time battle damage assessment.”

It further explained that post-strike assessment confirmed that the target area was struck with high accuracy, resulting in the destruction of the identified terrorist logistics enclave.

It pointed out that scores of terrorists were neutralised in the strike, with their vehicles and technicals destroyed, while surviving elements were observed fleeing in multiple directions.

Intelligence further indicated that the neutralised elements were in the final stages of receiving logistics from couriers for coordinated attacks on troop locations within the Gubio axis.

The statement further added: “Instructively, on 12 April 2026, a terrorist logistics courier identified as ‘Turja Bulu’ was arrested in Ngamdu town and, upon preliminary investigation, confessed to taking part in the attack at the 29 Brigade location on 9 April 2026 in Benisheik. He had been dispatched by ISWAP from Jilli, where most of his fellow terrorists were hibernating, to provide food items for another group of terrorists currently hibernating around the Magumeri–Gubio general area.

“This successful strike is yet another demonstration of the resolve and operational capability of OPHK to sustain relentless pressure on terrorist elements, disrupt their logistics networks, and deny them freedom of movement within the Theatre.”

It added that the Theatre Command also reiterated that the use of motorcycles remains strictly prohibited across the North-East operational theatre, particularly in Borno and Yobe states, due to their continued use by terrorist elements for movement, logistics, and attack operations.

“Any such movements in restricted areas are therefore treated with the utmost seriousness in line with existing operational directives,” it added.

The statement reaffirmed that the Joint Task Force (North East) OPHK assured the people of the North East, and indeed all law-abiding Nigerians, that ongoing operations will continue with renewed intensity until all terrorist enclaves are dismantled and lasting peace is restored to the region.

NAF probes alleged civilian casualties

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has launched an investigation into alleged civilian casualties following an air strike in Jilli, Borno State.

In a statement on Sunday, spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said reports suggested that the strike might have hit a local market in Jilli, raising concerns about civilian casualties.

He said the Chief of the Air Staff had ordered the immediate activation of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell.

According to him, the cell has been deployed to the location on a fact-finding mission into the allegations.

“The Nigerian Air Force treats all reports of possible civilian harm with the utmost seriousness and empathy.

“The protection of innocent lives remains central to all NAF operations,” he said.

Ejodame said the service remained committed to professionalism, accountability and transparency in its missions.

He added that the force would work with authorities and community representatives to establish the facts.

While the investigation continues, he urged the public and media to avoid speculation and allow due process.

Zulum warns residents against aiding Boko Haram insurgents

Meanwhile, Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno has warned residents against harbouring or providing logistical support to Boko Haram insurgents.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the warning followed a recent operation conducted by the Air Component of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, in the Jilli general area of Gubio Local Government Area on Saturday.

Zulum, in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Mr Dauda Iliya, described Jilli market as a notorious hub, allegedly used by insurgents and their logistics suppliers.

“I have been properly briefed on the airstrike carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai on Jilli market, a border town between Borno and Yobe.

“Let me state categorically that the Borno State government closed Jilli and Gazabure markets five years ago.

“I am in close consultation with the government of Yobe State and the military hierarchy on the matter,” the governor was quoted as saying.

The governor said that the state government had maintained close coordination with the military and other security agencies before resettling any community or reopening markets, particularly in areas affected by insurgency.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that will aid ongoing military operations.

Military action inevitable, says Buratai

In a related development, a former Chief of Army Staff, Lt-General Tukur Buratai, has described Jilli market, a border town between Borno and Yobe states, as a notorious terrorist hub, saying military action is inevitable.

In a statement issued in Kaduna on Sunday, which he personally signed, the retired army general said, “I must state clearly that I commend the Nigerian Air Force and the intelligence community for the courage and professionalism displayed in this operation.

“The strike was a targeted military action based on credible intelligence that Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists were using the weekly market at Jilli to collect illegal levies, procure supplies, and plan further attacks.

“The public should understand the history of Jilli Market. It has long been a notorious terrorist logistics hub.

“The Nigerian Army repeatedly raided and shut it down. In 2018, during Operation LAST HOLD, our troops occupied the area and engaged in multiple clashes with insurgents.

“Despite several closures, the terrorists continued to operate the market with the cooperation of some individuals who patronised and supplied them.

“It is deeply regrettable that innocent lives may have been caught in the strike, but the sole responsibility rests with the terrorists who deliberately embed themselves within civilian spaces as human shields.

“No military wishes to harm civilians, but when a market is dominated by terrorist logistics and warnings have been ignored for years, the military has a duty to act.

“I appeal to the people of Geidam, Gubio, Damasak, and Ngamdu to cooperate with the military. Stop patronising or supplying goods to any market where terrorists establish or frequent. Communities that continue to trade with insurgents will inevitably find themselves in harm’s way.

“The armed forces deserve our support. They acted on solid intelligence and struck a legitimate target. While we mourn innocent lives lost, we must not weaken our resolve against an enemy that shows no mercy.”

CISLAC, TI condemn strikes, seek immediate probe

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC).and Transparency International (TI) in Nigeria on Sunday expressed grave concerns over reports of Nigerian Air Force airstrike that struck a civilian market along the Borno–Yobe boundary, leaving dozens feared dead and many injured.

CISLAC Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Ibrahim Musa Rafisanjani, in a statement, while extending condolences to the victims, called for urgent, transparent, and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding this attack.

He said: “We find it disturbing that evidence from similar cases shows recurring structural gaps such as weak intelligence verification, lack of precision targeting capacity; pressure for rapid results.

“Airstrikes often rely on single-source or outdated intelligence, especially in environments where insurgents mix with civilians. Just as military units under constant pressure to neutralize insurgents quickly, lowering verification thresholds.

“As a matter of urgency, we demand an independent investigation and accountability with an established credible civilian-led investigative panel comprising the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Civil Society, and international observers where necessary; public disclosure of findings and accountability for errors or negligence; and adequate compensation and support to victims and families.”

They also recommended immediate adoption of what it called Civilian Protection Framework to institutionalise Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response used by modern militaries; mandatory civilian risk assessments before strikes; formulation and implementation of comprehensive policy on No-strike lists (markets, hospitals, religious sites); real-time abort protocols when civilian presence is detected.

The statement reads in part: “We call for the review and adoption of best practices from Global Counterterrorism Operations such Multi-Layered Intelligence Verification; Persistent Surveillance Before Engagement; Precision-Guided Munitions (PGMs); Civil-Military Coordination through Civilian Joint Task Force, round verification; Early Warning signals and local intelligence validation; and Post-Strike Civilian Harm Assessment.

“We recommend comprehensive upgrade in Defence critical hardware such as integration of ISR drones with real-time video feeds; facial recognition/pattern-of-life analytics; precision-guided weapons; secured communication systems linking pilots to ground intelligence units.

“We call for a comprehensive Civilian Protection Policy across all armed forces; adequate Civilian Oversight, particularly National Assembly, must enforce regular oversight hearings on military operations; and mandatory reporting of civilian casualty incidents.”

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Trump says ‘not a big fan’ of Pope Leo after his anti-war message

Published

7 hours ago

April 13, 2026

Newsbreak365_Admin

US President Donald Trump told reporters Sunday that he is “not a big fan” of Pope Leo XIV, after the global leader of Catholics made a plea for peace.

“I’m not a big fan of Pope Leo. He’s a very liberal person, and he’s a man that doesn’t believe in stopping crime,” Trump told reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.

He accused the pontiff of “toying with a country that wants a nuclear weapon.”

On Saturday, the 70-year-old American pope publicly implored leaders to end the violence, telling worshippers at St. Peter’s Basilica: “Enough of the idolatry of self and money! Enough of the display of power! Enough of war!”

Trump reiterated his comments to reporters with a post on Truth Social saying: “I don’t want a Pope who think it’s OK for Iran to have a Nuclear Weapon.”

Washington and the Vatican have recently denied reports of a rift.

On Friday, a Vatican official denied reports that a top Pentagon official gave the church’s envoy to the United States a “bitter lecture” over Pope Leo’s criticisms of the Trump administration.

The story in the Free Press — which the Pentagon had already dismissed as “distorted” — reported that Cardinal Christophe Pierre was summoned in January to the Pentagon, where he was given a dressing-down by US Under Secretary of Defence for Policy Elbridge Colby.

The military official reportedly told the cardinal that the United States “has the military power to do whatever it wants — and that the Church had better take its side.”

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement, “The account presented by certain media outlets regarding this meeting does not correspond to the truth in any way.”

While both parties insist the meeting was cordial, the Holy See and the White House have openly been at odds over the Trump administration’s hardline mass deportation campaign — which the pope called “inhuman” — and the use of military force in the Middle East and Venezuela.

When Trump made genocidal threats against Iran on Tuesday, saying “A whole civilisation will die tonight, never to be brought back again” — the pontiff slammed the “truly unacceptable” statement and urged parties to “come back to the table” for negotiations.

Earlier this month, Pope Leo hailed the news of a ceasefire between the United States and Iran as a “sign of real hope.”

But peace talks between the United States and Iran, held in the Pakistani capital Islamabad, ended abruptly Saturday with US Vice President JD Vance telling reporters after a marathon session of talks that Washington has delivered its “final and best offer.”

AFP

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Electricity generation rose to 4,300MW from 3,951MW — FG

Published

7 hours ago

April 13, 2026

Newsbreak365_Admin

The Federal Government on Sunday announced that electricity generation increased from 3,951MW to 4,300MW between March 28 and April 10.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued in Abuja by the Special Adviser to the Minister of Power on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Mr Bolaji Tunji.

Tunji said the gradual rise in generation output within the period aligns with the assurance earlier given by the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, at the Power Sector Working Group, where he pledged improved electricity supply within two weeks.

He explained that the improvement coincided with a steady increase in gas supply to thermal power plants, which rose from approximately 605 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) to over 704 mmscfd within the same timeframe.

Tunji further stated that mechanical availability remained stable and even improved, peaking at over 7,796MW in early April, while operational availability rose from about 4,208MW to a peak of over 4,694MW, indicating enhanced efficiency in converting available gas into electricity.

“Despite minor fluctuations recorded on some days, the overall trajectory points to a gradual recovery in the power sector, driven largely by improved gas supply and better coordination among critical stakeholders,” he said.

He added that the strong correlation between gas availability and generation output underscores the need for sustained interventions in the gas-to-power value chain, given Nigeria’s reliance on thermal power plants.

“To consolidate the gains recorded so far, the minister recently inaugurated a Gas-to-Power Monitoring Committee to ensure improved coordination, real-time monitoring, and sustained gas supply to generating companies.

“The committee is expected to address bottlenecks in gas delivery, enhance synergy between gas producers and power generation companies, and ultimately guarantee a more stable and reliable electricity supply across the country,” he said.

Tunji noted that the minister remains committed to sustaining and improving the gains recorded in the coming weeks.

He assured Nigerians that ongoing reforms and targeted interventions would continue to yield measurable improvements in power generation and supply.

“We are not there yet, but we will continue to ensure measurable improvements,” he said.

Tunji also said the minister urged the new management of the Nigeria Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) to improve its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

Adelabu gave the charge during a visit by the newly appointed Managing Director of the agency, Mr Olusegun Adesayo, and the Chairman of the Board, Mr Ikechi Nwosu, to his office over the weekend.

The minister advised the agency to focus on boosting IGR while reducing dependence on government appropriation, particularly for operational costs.

He also urged the management to establish more meter testing centres across the country to enhance its operations.

Expressing confidence in the new leadership, Adelabu assured that the full board of the agency would be inaugurated soon.

“I have no doubt about your ability, and I can also say that with your appointment by the president, you will do well. The President knows what he is doing by appointing you, and any appointee of the president will have my full cooperation,” he said.

He further decried the shortage of manpower, particularly meter installers, and reiterated the need for collaboration between the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria and NEMSA to address the challenge.

“We need to ensure more installers are trained in order to accelerate the government’s plan to bridge the meter gap in the country,” he said.

On meter testing stations, he said, plans should be made to establish them across all geopolitical zones.

He also urged the NEMSA Managing Director to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the agency to identify key challenges.

Earlier, Adesayo informed the minister of his engagement with other agencies to secure their support and highlighted areas where the ministry’s assistance would be required for effective service delivery.

NAN

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