News
Chinese Envoy hails Mbah’s investment drive, Enugu’s investment opportunities and environment
…Says Enugu–China direct flight possible in the near future
The Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria, Yan Yuqing, has applauded Governor Peter Mbah’s bold economic vision and investor-friendly policies.
Yuqing described Enugu State as a rising hub of “vitality, livability, and opportunity” with strong prospects for deeper China-Nigeria economic cooperation.
The envoy gave the commendation at Government House, Enugu, where she led a delegation of top executives from leading Chinese companies to a high-level meeting with Mbah.
She said the visit underscored growing bilateral engagement between Nigerian and China, which also spotlighted Enugu’s evolving status as a preferred destination for foreign direct investment, FDI.
The Chinese envoy particularly praised Mbah’s strategic focus on infrastructure, technology, and human capital development, noting that the administration’s blueprint aligns with global best practices and emerging investment trends.
“The governor’s vision for Enugu is both inspiring and practical. His commitment to infrastructure, technology, and human capital development provides a solid foundation for sustainable growth. We are confident that Enugu will become a major destination for Chinese investors.”
This was even as she stated that initial doubts as to possibility of a direct flight from Enugu to China had been cleared, having seen Mbah’s bold vision and efforts in positioning Enugu as an economic and aviation hub.
“So, at that time I thought, a straight flight to China, is it possible? But now, especially after our discussion, I think that it is not a dream. It’s a reality. And maybe in the near future, we can realise it,” she said.
According to the Consul General, the relationship between China and Nigeria has continued to strengthen, especially following the elevation of bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2024, expressing optimism that Enugu would play a significant role in advancing this cooperation.
She also highlighted the presence of major Chinese corporations in Nigeria and indicated China’s willingness to expand collaboration in key sectors including infrastructure, digital economy, vocational education, and cultural exchange.
Yuqing further revealed that discussions were ongoing regarding possible sister-city agreements between Enugu and select Chinese cities, a development expected to foster closer economic and cultural integration.
She expressed delights at the cleanliness of Enugu city, describing it as quite livable.
Addressing the delegation, Mbah reaffirmed that Enugu remains open and ready for international partnerships, particularly with Chinese investors and airlines.
He emphasised that the state had deliberately created a safe, clean, and business-friendly environment capable of supporting large-scale investments.
“We are open to partnerships with Chinese airlines and investors. Enugu is safe, clean, and business-friendly,” the governor said, adding that ongoing reforms were designed to ensure ease of doing business and long-term returns for investors.
He further disclosed that plans were already underway to establish direct international flight routes between Enugu and major Chinese cities, including Guangzhou, as part of broader efforts to deepen trade and economic exchanges.
“With the concessioning of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport and our plan to build a modern cargo terminal, direct flights from Enugu to China are possible within a shorter time. This will significantly enhance trade, logistics, and investment flows,” Mbah stated.
The governor described the New Enugu Smart City as a flagship initiative aimed at redefining urban living and investment standards in Nigeria.
According to him, the project would feature world-class infrastructure, including underground electricity systems, central sewage networks, fiber-optic connectivity, piped water, and gas pipelines.
In a move to further strengthen cultural and economic ties, Mbah proposed the establishment of a Chinatown District in Enugu, assuring the Chinese delegation of government support, including land allocation and policy backing.
“We expect major Chinese companies to site their headquarters here and operate from Enugu. Our relationship with China is warm and expanding, and we want to deepen it through concrete investments,” he said.
The governor also highlighted ongoing collaboration between Chinese firms and the Nigerian government, particularly the role of CCCC in the construction of Enugu Smart City and the CCECC in rail infrastructure development.
Beyond infrastructure, Mbah pointed to successful industrial partnerships already taking root in the state, citing the example of the Haier Group, which partnered with the Enugu State Government to establish manufacturing facility in Enugufor producing digital devices, solar equipment, and household appliances.
According to him, the partnership goes beyond production to include technology transfer and workforce development, with local technicians being trained to take over operations in the near future.
He assured investors of the government’s readiness to continue to de-risk investments and provide the necessary support to ensure profitability and growth.
The United States has designated a Nigerian national and three companies operating in the country as alleged financial facilitators of activities linked to the terrorist group, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
They were designated in the latest action, which targeted a total of three individuals and six entities accused of facilitating the movement of funds for ISIS operations globally.
In a statement issued on Monday and sighted on Tuesday, U.S. Department of State spokesperson, Thomas Pigott, said designations cut across France, Syria, Türkiye, and Nigeria.
He described the network as one that enables ISIS to move money across borders.
“Today’s designations target three individuals and six entities operating across Europe, the Middle East, and West Africa who have enabled ISIS to move money across borders — exposing a network that spans from France and Syria to Türkiye and Nigeria.
“Among those designated is a France-based facilitator who provided information concerning the use of explosives to ISIS supporters, a Syria-based operator who used cryptocurrency to transfer funds on behalf of ISIS associates in multiple countries, including the United States, and a Nigeria-based facilitator whose money exchange businesses served as conduits for ISIS financing,” the statement added.
In a further update released on Monday, the US released the identities of the three persons and six companies designated.
Apart from the Nigerian national, three of the six designated companies are also from Nigeria, two from Lagos State and one from Kano.
Full List of Specially Designated Nationals (SDN)
ABDELHAKIM, Boukich (a.k.a. “ALHOLANDI, Abu Sulayman”; “BABILI, Muhammad”); Syria; DOB 15 Dec 1993 (alt. 01 Jan 1991); POB The Hague, Netherlands (alt. Aleppo, Syria); nationality Netherlands; male; National ID No. 02040063438 (Syria) [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS).
ABDERRAHMANE, Miloud (a.k.a. “GHAZI, Ibrahim”); France; DOB Aug 1992; nationality/citizenship France; male; Digital Currency Addresses: TRX TBXMiRqUp1XH1zLazWu8cWitMAScv4HsYq; TRX TDFj8tYzfLDkwEMo4MJ2DfrbpMztuCCnan [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS).
MUHAMMAD, Mukhtar Adamu (a.k.a. ADAMU, Mukhtar; MUKHTAR, Muhammad); No. 45 Abimbola Street, off Capital Road, Morcas Agege, Lagos State, Nigeria; DOB 02 Aug 1990 (alt. 03 Aug 1990); nationality Nigeria; male; Passport Nos. A11904741; A07422697 [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS-WEST AFRICA).
ALKARAM DANISMANLIK GAYRIMENKUL IC VE DIS GENEL TICARET LIMITED SIRKETI (a.k.a. AL-KARAM COMPANY; AL-KARAM MONEY TRANSFER COMPANY; SPIDER COMPANY ISTANBUL EXCHANGE RATES); Fatih, Istanbul, Türkiye; [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS).
BITCOIN EXCHANGE AGENT IDLIB’S NO.1 COIN EXCHANGE (a.k.a. IDLIB NO 1 BTC; NO.1 BITCOIN EXCHANGE AGENT; BITCOIN XCHANGE); Idlib, Salqin, Darkush, Sarmada, Syria; [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS).
GENERATION CURRENCY BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED; Lagos, Nigeria; RC 1555604; [SDGT] (Linked To: Mukhtar Adamu / ISIS network).
MANHATTAN BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED; No. 59 Murtala Mohammed Way, Wapa, Kano, Nigeria; RC 1763824; [SDGT] (Linked To: Mukhtar Adamu / ISIS network).
NINE TO NINE EXCHANGE BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED; Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria; RC 1462752; [SDGT] (Linked To: Mukhtar Adamu / ISIS network).
SPIDER GAYRIMENKUL VE GENEL TICARET LIMITED SIRKETI (a.k.a. SPIDER MONEY TRANSFER COMPANY; SPIDER TICARET); Istanbul, Türkiye; [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS).
The U.S. reaffirmed its “strong partnership with Nigeria,” which joined the United States in the May 16, 2026, operation that resulted in the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as the number two official in ISIS.
Pigott said the United States would continue to apply diplomatic and legal measures against ISIS and its supporters worldwide.
“We will continue to use every diplomatic and legal tool available to hold ISIS and its supporters accountable — wherever they operate and however they move money. We remain fully committed to protecting American lives, defending religious minorities, and working with international partners to eliminate the threat that ISIS poses to global peace and security,” he said.
The action, according to the statement, was taken under Executive Order 13224, as amended.
It also noted that ISIS, formerly known as al-Qa’ida in Iraq, was designated a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) organisation in 2004. (PUNCH)
Alhaji Muhammadu Mai Barga Besse [Right], former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Koko/Besse Local Government Area of Kebbi State, died while in kidnappers’ den
Alhaji Muhammadu Mai Barga Besse, the immediate past Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Koko/Besse Local Government Area of Kebbi State, has tragically died while in captivity after being abducted by bandits earlier in June 2026.
He was held alongside another captive, identified as Yahya, in the notorious Birnin Gwari forest in North-West Nigeria—a region long plagued by banditry and violent criminal activity.
A disturbing video circulated widely on social media showed Besse and Yahya pleading desperately for help.
In the footage, Besse confirmed his past role as APC Chairman but clarified that he no longer held the position.
Both men appeared visibly frail and weak, lamenting their deteriorating health conditions.
They appealed to relatives, community leaders, and government authorities to intervene and secure their release.
The video sparked outrage and sympathy across Nigeria, drawing attention to the vulnerability of even prominent figures in the face of unchecked banditry.
On June 23, 2026, reports confirmed that both captives—Besse and Yahya—had died in the kidnappers’ den.
Their deaths have left families, political associates, and the wider community devastated.
The incident has reignited debates about the government’s handling of security in Kebbi State and across Nigeria’s North-West.
The tragedy underscores the deepening insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West, where bandit groups continue to terrorize communities through abductions, extortion, and killings.
It highlights the failure of negotiation and ransom-driven approaches, which often embolden criminal gangs rather than deter them.
Analysts warn that the incident is a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms, stronger intelligence gathering, and coordinated military action.
Community leaders have called for decisive government intervention.
They stressed that the persistence of such crimes erodes public trust in governance and threatens national stability.
A Kebbi State official expressed grief in a heartfelt statement:
“I have received the heartbreaking news that one of the victims abducted by bandits, a former APC Chairman of Koko/Besse Local Government, has sadly passed away while in the hands of his captors.
“I extend my deepest condolences to his family, relatives, friends, and all those affected by this painful loss.
“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, shower His infinite mercy upon him, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
“May Allah also comfort his family and grant them the strength to bear this difficult loss.”
The official further prayed for an end to the persistent insecurity troubling Kebbi State and Nigeria as a whole.
He urged for lasting peace, safety, and stability in affected communities.
The death of Alhaji Muhammadu Mai Barga Besse and his associate Yahya in captivity has sparked outrage and renewed calls for urgent solutions to Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
Their passing is a grim reminder of the human toll of banditry, the fragility of life under such conditions, and the pressing need for decisive action to restore peace and stability in Kebbi State and across Nigeria.
…Rain Oil leads cuts with N18/litre reduction
…Diesel prices crash by up to N70/litre
Depot prices of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, eased across several terminals in Lagos yesterday as petroleum marketers adjusted prices amid shifting supply dynamics in Nigeria’s downstream oil market.
The latest market data showed a broad-based decline in Lagos, with most major depots reducing their ex-depot prices by between N1 and N18 per litre, while diesel prices recorded even steeper reductions in some locations.
The price movement comes as competition among petroleum product suppliers continues to influence market pricing, particularly with increased domestic refining capacity.
The Dangote Refinery remained relatively stable, with its Lagos PMS price inching up marginally from N1,175 per litre to N1,176 per litre, a difference of just N1.
However, several other terminals reduced prices. Rain Oil recorded the biggest cut among Lagos depots, lowering its petrol price by N18 from N1,180 to N1,162 per litre.
A.A Rano also reduced its price from N1,165 to N1,161 per litre, while AIPEC and Bono moved down from N1,165 to N1,160 per litre.
NIPCO cut its PMS price by N4 from N1,165 to N1,161 per litre, while AITEO adjusted slightly downward from N1,161 to N1,160 per litre.
Other terminals including Masters, Matrix, Sigmund and T.S.L also recorded declines, reinforcing the downward trend in the Lagos depot market.
Masters reduced petrol from N1,203 to N1,197 per litre, Matrix moved from N1,205 to N1,197 per litre, while Sigmund and T.S.L adjusted their prices from N1,200 to N1,195 per litre.
Despite the general decline in Lagos, some terminals in other regions recorded increases, reflecting regional supply and logistics differences. In Port Harcourt, Africanterminal raised its PMS price from N1,495 to N1,505 per litre, while Duport increased from N1,490 to N1,505 per litre.
Gulftreasure and T.Time were quoted at N1,505 per litre, while Dangote’s Port Harcourt terminal recorded a slight reduction from N1,501 to N1,500 per litre.
The diesel market recorded a more significant shift, particularly in Port Harcourt, where prices fell sharply at some depots. Matrix reduced automotive gas oil (AGO) from N1,630 to N1,560 per litre, representing a N70 drop, while Sigmund cut its diesel price by N68 from N1,628 to N1,560 per litre.
In Lagos, AGO prices also softened at some terminals, with Matrix reducing diesel from N1,630 to N1,560 per litre, while Sigmund moved from N1,628 to N1,560 per litre.
Meanwhile, Calabar recorded a slight upward movement in petrol prices. Mainland depot increased PMS from N1,187 to N1,190 per litre, while Northwest moved from N1,190 to N1,195 per litre.
The Chief Executive officer, Petroleumprice.com, Olatide Jeremiah, said the latest adjustments highlight the increasingly competitive nature of Nigeria’s petroleum products market, where local refining output, depot inventories and transportation costs continue to determine price movements.
He said: “With more domestic supply entering the market, especially from major refining facilities, marketers are expected to continue reviewing depot prices in response to changing supply conditions.
“The immediate impact on consumers will depend on how quickly the reductions at depot level translate into retail pump prices, as marketers factor in haulage expenses, operating costs and profit margins.” (Vanguard)
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