Hob Nob News

The State of Israel has disclosed that it is deepening its agricultural cooperation with Nigeria, revealing that Israeli technology and seedlings are already being used by Nigerian farmers to improve food production across the country.

Speaking at the celebration of Israel’s 78th Independence Anniversary in Abuja on Monday night, the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, said Israeli companies were actively operating in Nigeria and contributing to the agricultural sector through innovative technologies and improved seedlings.

According to Freeman, the vegetables distributed to guests at the event were grown from Israeli seedlings using Israeli technology, but cultivated by Nigerian farmers on Nigerian soil.

“As you leave this evening, you will receive a box of vegetables. These vegetables were grown from Israeli seedlings using Israeli technology but grown by Nigerian farmers on Nigerian soil,” he said.

The ambassador described the initiative as a demonstration of the possibilities that stronger agricultural cooperation could bring to Nigeria, including increased crop yields, enhanced food security and improved livelihoods for rural communities.

“Imagine that success multiplied across Nigeria. Higher yields, stronger rural communities, greater food security and millions upon millions of lives improved,” Freeman stated.

He noted that cooperation between Israel and Nigeria was expanding beyond agriculture to include innovation, healthcare, security, education and skills development, stressing that such efforts were investments in a shared future rather than acts of charity.

Freeman also announced that Israel would launch a fifth cohort of its entrepreneurship programme in 2027 and donate three fully equipped ambulances to Nigeria.

“I’m pleased to announce tonight that we are committing to a fifth cohort of the programme for 2027. Today, I’m also pleased to announce that the first three fully equipped ambulances donated by Israel are on their way to Nigeria,” he said.

The envoy explained that the ambulances would help strengthen emergency healthcare services while symbolising the growing partnership between both nations.

Highlighting Israel’s development journey, Freeman said the country transformed itself from a resource-constrained nation into a global technology hub by turning challenges into opportunities.

“For 78 years, Israel has been making miracles happen, transforming deserts into farmland, scarcity into abundance, ideas into technologies and challenges into opportunities,” he said.

He cited Israel’s achievements in drip irrigation, precision agriculture, water desalination, medicine, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and innovation, noting that these advancements were driven by necessity and determination.

Freeman further expressed confidence in Nigeria’s future, pointing to the country’s youthful population, entrepreneurial spirit and vast agricultural resources as key strengths that could drive greater prosperity through enhanced collaboration.

He added that the Israel-supported IFARE programme had continued to empower young Nigerian entrepreneurs through mentorship and business development initiatives.

Also speaking at the event, Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture and Tourism, congratulated Israel on its 78th Independence Anniversary and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

Musawa described the relationship between Nigeria and as one built on cooperation, economic transformation, partnership and shared values.

She said Nigeria was eager to deepen collaboration with Israel in areas such as culture, tourism, agriculture, innovation and the creative economy, adding that cultural diplomacy remained a powerful tool for promoting education, economic growth and stronger people-to-people ties.

“While our nations are separated by geography, we are united by a rich tapestry of cultural diversity and interdependent energy,” the minister said.

The Spiritual Director of the Adoration Ministry, Enugu, Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, has condemned the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State, describing the incident as heartbreaking and unacceptable.

Speaking on the worsening security situation in parts of the country, the cleric called on security agencies and relevant authorities to take urgent steps to rescue the victims and prevent further attacks on innocent citizens.

Fr. Mbaka expressed concern over the growing cases of kidnapping and insecurity, warning that children should never become targets of criminal activities or political interests.

According to him, some individuals may be exploiting the country’s security challenges as part of a broader political agenda aimed at turning public opinion against President Bola Tinubu.

“If they want to overthrow Tinubu, it is not by kidnapping our children,” Mbaka said, stressing that acts of violence and abduction cannot be justified under any circumstance.

He urged political actors to pursue their ambitions through lawful and democratic means rather than actions that endanger lives and create fear among citizens.

The cleric further appealed to the Federal Government to strengthen security measures across the country and ensure that those responsible for the abduction are brought to justice.

Mbaka also called on Nigerians to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and security, while offering prayers for the safe return of the abducted schoolchildren.

Marketers of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), popularly known as cooking gas, have attributed the persistent increase in prices across Nigeria over the past three weeks to seasonal demand, supply constraints, and product scarcity.

The spokespersons of the Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA), Chinedu Ukadike, and the Nigerian Independent Petroleum Company Plc (NIPCO), Taofeek Lawal, made this known in separate interviews with Hobnob News on Monday.

Hobnob News reports that the price of cooking gas has surged by between 40 and 66 per cent in Abuja and its environs, with a kilogram now selling for between N1,400 and N2,000, up from N1,000 and N1,200 recorded weeks earlier.

The latest increase has further intensified the hardship faced by many Nigerians already struggling with the rising cost of living. The development comes amid headline inflation of 26.50 per cent and food inflation of 16.09 per cent recorded in April 2026.

The hike has also raised concerns about the affordability of cooking gas for millions of households, despite the implementation of the N70,000 national minimum wage.

Speaking on the development, Ukadike linked the increase in LPG prices to seasonal demand and supply challenges, noting that the rainy season typically drives more households to switch from firewood to cooking gas.

“It’s because of demand now. You know, it’s the rainy season,” he said.

According to him, the increased demand during the season puts pressure on available supplies, resulting in higher prices.

“Once it comes to the rainy season, all firewood goes off. It’s seasonal. That’s the way it works,” Ukadike added.

He further cited supply constraints and the scarcity of alternative household fuels as additional factors contributing to the price increase.

Despite the current situation, the NOGASA spokesman expressed optimism that prices would eventually decline as supply improves and more operators enter the market.

“It will come down naturally,” he stated.

Ukadike explained that the participation of additional gas companies would help stabilize supply and reduce pressure on prices.

“There are more gas companies that are also trying to come on board. So, I also believe it will come down,” he told Hobnob News.

He added that increased contributions from operators, including the Dangote Refinery, could play a significant role in easing the current supply challenges and lowering cooking gas prices.

On his part, Lawal said the recent increase was largely the result of a mismatch between available LPG products and the growing number of consumers.

“It is basically a supply issue. There are few products for a large number of customers,” he said.

According to him, addressing the situation would require a substantial increase in product availability to meet rising demand.

“The solution is to improve supply to meet the growing demand,” Lawal told Nova News.

Industry stakeholders have expressed hope that improved supply and increased market participation will help moderate prices in the coming months, offering relief to consumers grappling with economic pressures.

By Bridget Tikyaa

Monday, June 8, 2026 will be etched in the history of Benue State. It is the day Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia took a major decision that will have transformational impact on the economy of the state for generations unborn.

It is the day that Governor Alia signed into law, the Benue State Electricity Law, 2026. This major step will be the beginning of chains of events that will energise the state, light up the streets, boost local economy, create massive jobs and opportunities for numerous people in urban and rural areas.

This initiative began on June 8, 2023 when President Bola Tinubu signed into law an Act of the National Assembly that gives states power to generate and distribute electricity.

The Nigeria Electricity Act 2023, empowers state governments to regulate electricity generation, transmission, and distribution within their respective states.

This decentralization of power is expected to boost electricity supply and promote private sector participation in the energy sector. With this law, states can develop their own electricity markets, establish regulatory commissions, and attract investments to improve power generation and distribution.

This is exactly what the domesticated law signed by the governor seeks to achieve in Benue State.

Benue State’s electricity coverage is still low, it is a work in progress. About 1,207,272 residents lack access to electricity. There is an ongoing project by the Rural Electrification Agency to set up 3,821 potential mini solar grid sites in the state, with 651 communities having over 100 connections for private sector-led mini-grid development.

The state government is already committed to leveraging the Electricity Act 2023 to expand access and attract private sector participation. Some areas identified for potential mini-grid development include Odejo, Mbadede, Gwer, Tarka, Otukpo, Obi, Makurdi, and Gboko.

Over time, positive impacts will roll in. The law has provided legal framework for investment in the power sector, including generation, transmission, and distribution within the state.

This will no doubt lead to more reliable and stable power supply for homes, businesses, schools, and hospitals.

With improved electricity, investors will be more encouraged to establish small, medium and large industries and businesses, and invariably create employment opportunities for thousands of Benue residents, including the youths.

It is a way of easing the cost of buying fuel for generators, which is likely to lower production costs, increase profitability, and make locally produced goods more competitive.

As a governor focused on the welfare of the people, the new law has provisions for protecting the rights of consumers, ensuring fair billing, improved service delivery, quicker resolution of complaints, and accountability framework for all.

It is trite to even mention the monumental impact this will have in rural areas in improving quality of life. The impact will be massive. First, communities that currently lack access to electricity can benefit from expanded power infrastructure. Second, with electricity available, there will be improvement in healthcare services, quality of education, agricultural processing, security, and overall living standard.

In summary, the law will help deliver more reliable electricity, stimulate economic development, protect consumers, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for residents across Benue State, thereby positioning the state for greater industrialization and sustainable growth.

Bridget Tikyaa

Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Media Publicity and Communications Strategy

The Federal Government has approved the payment of outstanding debts owed to more than 1,240 contractors across the country, marking a significant step toward addressing long-standing financial obligations.

The development was disclosed on Monday in a statement issued by the spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Finance, Mary-Ann Duke.

According to the statement, the government will prioritise the settlement of verified debts valued at less than N100 million as part of efforts to ease the burden on contractors and stimulate economic activities.

The Ministry explained that the approvals followed a comprehensive verification and reconciliation exercise carried out to confirm the authenticity of outstanding claims and ensure transparency in the payment process.

“The approvals were granted after a thorough verification and reconciliation process to establish legitimate obligations owed to contractors,” the statement noted.

The decision comes months after local contractors staged a series of protests over the non-payment of debts reportedly amounting to about N4 trillion since 2024.

On several occasions, aggrieved contractors barricaded the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja, demanding the immediate settlement of outstanding payments and accusing the government of delaying the release of funds for completed projects.

The prolonged delay had sparked concerns among contractors, many of whom claimed the unpaid debts were affecting their operations, workforce retention and ability to execute ongoing projects.

The Federal Government said the payment initiative reflects its commitment to honouring verified contractual obligations while strengthening confidence in public procurement and contract administration.

The ministry did not disclose a specific timeline for the disbursement of funds but assured contractors that the payment process would be carried out in an orderly and transparent manner.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to defeat terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality across the country, declaring that the Federal Government will never surrender to forces threatening Nigeria’s peace and security.

The President made the pledge through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja on Sunday as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.

Speaking on behalf of the President, Akume said the government remains committed to strengthening security operations nationwide while intensifying efforts to secure the release of citizens being held captive by criminal groups.

He noted that recent attacks and kidnappings in parts of the country underscore the need for sustained action by security agencies and closer collaboration among stakeholders in tackling insecurity.

“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” Akume said while delivering the President’s message.

He added that safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians remains a top priority of the Tinubu administration, stressing that security agencies have been directed to sustain ongoing operations against criminal elements.

President Tinubu also acknowledged the economic difficulties confronting many Nigerians and assured citizens that his administration is implementing measures aimed at easing hardship and improving the delivery of democratic dividends.

According to the President, the government is fully aware of public concerns regarding insecurity, inflation and the displacement of communities in some parts of the country and is responding with renewed urgency.

He emphasized that beyond security interventions, the administration remains focused on strengthening the economy, creating opportunities for citizens and ensuring that the benefits of democracy are felt across the nation.

The Democracy Day church service brought together government officials, religious leaders and worshippers who offered prayers for peace, unity and continued progress in Nigeria.

The annual celebration commemorates the country’s democratic journey and serves as an opportunity for reflection on national development, governance and the collective responsibility of citizens in building a more secure and prosperous nation.

A recent viral video showing officials of the Lagos State Ministry of Housing confronting a resident over the installation of solar panels has ignited widespread public outrage and renewed debate over government regulation, taxation and access to alternative energy sources.

The video, which circulated widely on social media, showed officials from the ministry’s monitoring and compliance unit informing a resident that approval and payment of an administrative fee were required before installing a solar power system on his residence.

The incident triggered sharp reactions from residents, many of whom accused the state government of imposing additional burdens on citizens already struggling with unreliable electricity supply and rising living costs.

However, the Lagos State Government has clarified that the permit requirement does not apply to all residents, insisting that the policy is limited to occupants of government-owned social housing estates.

Reacting to the controversy, Senior Special Assistant on Media to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Wale Ajetunmobi, said the resident featured in the viral video misunderstood the policy.

“This development is true, but the man who made the video seems to be misinformed about the Lagos State Government’s guidelines for installing solar energy systems in social housing estates,” Ajetunmobi stated in a post on X.

According to him, only residents of government-owned social housing estates are required to obtain approval and pay administrative fees before carrying out structural alterations such as solar panel installations.

He explained that the government acts as the facility manager of the estates and must ensure that modifications comply with planning regulations and do not affect shared infrastructure or the structural integrity of buildings.

“Only residents living in government-owned social housing estates are charged administrative fees for alterations, such as the installation of a solar power system, before any additional development can be permitted,” he said.

Ajetunmobi added that alterations must pass through the physical planning and survey departments of the Ministry of Housing for approval, compliance verification and post-installation inspection.

He further noted that many solar systems are mounted in shared spaces within the estates, making government approval necessary before any installation can proceed.

The governor’s aide suggested that the individual in the viral video was likely a tenant or occupant of a government-owned estate who failed to obtain the required approval before commencing installation.

“He is likely to be a tenant in one of these social housing estates owned by the Lagos State Government, otherwise, he wouldn’t have raised concerns about something that was clearly outlined in the indemnity document he signed before the government handed over the apartment to him after purchase,” he said.

According to Ajetunmobi, the state government had previously faced liabilities arising from unauthorized structural modifications, including incidents involving roof damage and fire outbreaks.

Despite the clarification, public criticism has continued to intensify, with many residents arguing that the controversy highlights broader concerns about governance and the growing cost of survival in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

For many Lagosians, the debate extends beyond solar energy and reflects frustration over what they perceive as an increasing number of levies, permits and charges imposed on citizens who already provide essential services for themselves.

Critics argue that while governments in many countries encourage renewable energy adoption through incentives and subsidies, Nigerians are being asked to pay additional fees for seeking alternatives to chronic power shortages.

Many residents remain skeptical of the government’s explanation, fearing that the policy could eventually be expanded beyond social housing estates to cover private estates and individual homeowners.

Some have questioned why citizens who independently provide electricity, water and security should be required to seek approval or pay fees to install solar systems powered by sunlight.

A businessman residing in a private estate in Amuwo Odofin, Anthony Osewele, strongly condemned the policy, describing it as an attempt to commercialize a natural resource.

“The state government has no right to sell God’s energy,” he said.

“Nobody has the right to sell solar energy provided by God. We are talking about solar energy that is from the sun, God’s free gift to humanity. It is evil and the height of wickedness for anybody in authority to even conceive the idea of collecting money from citizens for using sunlight.”

Osewele argued that instead of imposing additional requirements, governments should focus on providing stable electricity and improving the quality of life for residents.

Similarly, legal practitioner Marcellus Onah said the growing embrace of solar power is a direct consequence of the failure of public electricity supply.

“People are buying solar because the government has failed to provide stable electricity, which is the minimum any responsible government should provide,” he said.

“We provide water for ourselves. We generate electricity for ourselves. We fix roads around us. Despite all these, the government still wants to charge us for trying to survive.”

An estate agent, Rowland Adebayo, also expressed concern over what he described as an increasing burden of taxes and levies on residents.

“They have introduced road parking fees. They demand tenement rates. Every day, there is one new levy or another,” he said.

“I don’t mind paying taxes if the government is doing the right thing. But asking people to pay for installing solar energy is criminal. It is like taxing sunlight, which is a free gift from God and we must resist it.”

The controversy comes as many Nigerians continue to turn to solar power as an alternative energy source amid persistent electricity shortages, rising fuel prices and increasing costs of running generators.

While the Lagos State Government insists that the permit requirement is strictly limited to government-owned social housing estates and is intended to regulate structural alterations, public concerns have exposed deeper frustrations over economic hardship, public service delivery and the growing demand for affordable renewable energy solutions.