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FG Drives Food Security with Solar-Powered Irrigation in Oyo

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Nigeria’s Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, has emphasized that achieving food sufficiency remains a critical goal for President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Utsev made this statement during an inspection tour of the solarisation process at the Pivot Irrigation Unit, part of the Middle Ogun Irrigation Project located in Iseyin, Oyo State.

The minister highlighted that the administration’s commitment to food production, job creation, and economic growth aligns with the broader objectives outlined in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He reiterated that the Federal Government is dedicated to providing the necessary infrastructure and resources to boost agricultural productivity across the country.

The solarisation of the irrigation unit and its connection to the national power grid are key elements in promoting irrigation farming and reducing dependence on costly diesel-powered generators.

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“The Middle Ogun Irrigation Project, initiated in 1990, originally aimed to bring 12,000 hectares of land under cultivation.

At that time, diesel-powered generators were used to fuel the irrigation systems.

However, due to rising diesel costs and other challenges, we are now transitioning to solar energy and connecting the facility to the national grid,” Utsev explained.

The minister also provided an update on the progress of these critical upgrades, revealing that 95 percent of the connection to the national grid had been completed, while the solarisation aspect of the project was about 85 percent finished.

These improvements are expected to significantly enhance irrigation capabilities, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for farmers.

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Alhaji Dauda Ademola, Chairman of the Middle Ogun Irrigation Project Farmers Association, expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government for its efforts to modernize the irrigation infrastructure.

He called on the government to expedite the completion of the ongoing projects and ensure that additional facilities are put in place to further support irrigation farming.

Ademola emphasized that timely execution would not only benefit the farmers but also contribute significantly to Nigeria’s agricultural output and food security goals.

The transformation of the Middle Ogun Irrigation Project is part of the larger strategy to harness renewable energy for agriculture, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and encourage the growth of Nigeria’s farming sector.

Through initiatives like this, the government hopes to enhance food production, create more employment opportunities, and ultimately strengthen the economy.

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Tinubu Says His Tough Economic Reforms Are Now Helping Nigeria’s Economy Grow

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President Bola Tinubu has claimed that his government’s economic reforms are beginning to bear fruit. Speaking at the APC National Summit held at the State House banquet hall in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu defended his administration’s decisions and insisted that the ruling party has not failed Nigerians. “Two years ago, we set out on a journey powered by hope and a strong belief in this country. We made a promise to tackle Nigeria’s problems directly and rebuild the trust of our people,” he said.

The president expressed confidence that the economic policies introduced since May 2023 are taking effect. He noted that the removal of fuel subsidies was a tough but necessary decision meant to steer the country toward a better future. “We took the bold step to end the subsidy, and we did it for the good of the country. Good things don’t come easy,” Tinubu added.

Since taking office, his administration has introduced a wave of economic reforms, including floating the naira and slashing fuel subsidies—moves which both the government and international bodies say were essential to fix Nigeria’s struggling economy.

However, these changes have been deeply felt by everyday Nigerians, many of whom are battling an intense cost-of-living crisis. With inflation soaring and economic growth sluggish, the World Bank estimates that nearly half of Nigeria’s population lived in poverty in 2024. Similarly, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently pointed out that while the reforms may be important in the long run, they are yet to make a real difference in the lives of ordinary citizens.


 

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APC Governors Say They Support Tinubu for Second Term and Will Make Sure He Wins in 2027

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The Progressive Governors’ Forum has pledged full support to ensure President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in office. Speaking at the APC National Summit in Abuja, the forum’s chairman and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, urged his fellow governors to take firm control of politics in their states and work to secure victories for the party across all levels.

Uzodimma emphasized that a united and active effort by APC governors will pave the way for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. He also acknowledged the public backing Tinubu has received from APC governors in the North, calling it a strong step toward solidifying the president’s position as the party’s next flag bearer.

According to him, APC governors must promote federal government policies and dominate their political spaces to ensure success in the next general elections. Uzodimma closed his remarks by formally calling on the summit to adopt the position of the Progressive Governors’ Forum in endorsing Tinubu for a second term and committing to deliver that mandate.


 

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Dangote Drops Petrol Price Again as New Rates Start Across Nigeria

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Dangote Petroleum Refinery has once again slashed the pump price of petrol across Nigeria, offering some relief to consumers. The new price now falls between N875 and N905 per litre, reflecting a N15 drop. This update was shared on the refinery’s official social media page on Thursday.

According to Dangote, the price cut affects major fuel distributors working with the refinery, including MRS, Ardova, Heyden, Optima Energy, Techno Oil, and Hyde Energy. With this change, Lagos residents will now buy petrol at N875 per litre. Those in the South-South and South-East regions will pay N905, while the South-West sees a new rate of N885.

In the North-West and central parts of the country, it’s N895, and the North-East will also pay N905. Dangote added that their petrol and diesel are not only high-quality but also designed to support engine efficiency and reduce environmental impact.


 

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