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State Governments And The Power Sector

…the country’s national grid collapsed eight times in 2022, and in the first half of 2024 alone, the grid has collapsed more than eight times.

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By Oguntoye Opeyemi

In 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the new Electricity Act into law, repealing the EPSRA with the aim of consolidating the laws relating to the power sector in Nigeria, including the integration of renewable energy into Nigeria’s energy mix. A key feature of the law is the recognition and inculcation of the state for serious participation in the sector.

However, the failure of state governments to embrace this opportunity could hinder national development. Relying solely on the national grid, which has long been criticized for its unreliability and lack of investment, is insufficient.

 Funny as it may, the country’s national grid collapsed eight times in 2022, and in the first half of 2024 alone, the grid has collapsed more than eight times. Recently, Benin Electricity Plc reported that Ondo and Ekiti states would have a partial power supply for two months due to the Transmission Company of Nigeria’s routine maintenance. So, businesses who rely on daily production and manufacturing will be deeply affected with such activities. Also, the Transmission Company of Nigeria’s 132kv line from Osogbo-Akure has an undersized cable, which regularly affects the voltage level transmitted to Ado-Ekiti and its environment. The same can be said of the national grid infrastructure which due to its aging nature cannot serve the intended purpose anymore.

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Former Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, highlighted the cost-effectiveness of transmitting power within states (citing the Calabar to Jos example) compared to constructing extensive infrastructure like gas pipelines. He advocated for domesticating power plants within states to provide electricity to local communities and businesses, thereby attracting foreign direct investment (FDI).

Worthy of mention is that by keying into the provisions of the new Electricity Act, state governments will assist to also fight insecurity.  Criminal activities thrive in darkness, but a well-lit environment deters perpetrators. Illuminating streets and installing CCTV cameras can enhance public safety and reduce the need for extensive security investments.

Data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) shows that in 2020, over 140 million Chinese SMEs contributed significantly to GDP, tax income, technological innovation, and job creation. In contrast, a 2021 survey in Ondo State revealed that nearly 80% of businesses experienced inadequate or irregular power supply, hindering economic activities. Undoubtedly, reliable electricity is crucial for SMEs to thrive, creating jobs and increasing state revenue. Today, many young people who could have contributed to the IGR of various states through various engagement initiatives are left to either ride motorcycles or left idle. Whereas, if proper care is given, with incentives, and power reliability by state governments, the revenue and value-added from the SMEs will catapult a state to a whole new level.

Developed nations recognize the importance of reliable power. For instance, as of December 2021, Canada had about 1.2 million SMEs, accounting for 99.8% of all employer businesses and contributing significantly to GDP. Nigeria can achieve similar success if state governments prioritize electricity reliability.

It would however be unfair not to recognize the contribution of some of the states that had already keyed into the new Electricity Act – states like Enugu, Ondo, Ekiti, Lagos, and Oyo have initiated policies to leverage the new Electricity Act. Though, the progress of those new policies would be subjected to further discussion, the most crucial thing is that they had taken commendable steps to have sufficient power for their own people. Lagos, for example, partnered with Harvest Waste Consortium to build a waste-to-energy plant, converting daily waste of up to 2,250 tonnes into 60–75 megawatts of electricity.  Oyo state could State could similarly harness the Ikere-George Dam for power, benefiting agro-businesses in the region.

Power availability is vital for modern agricultural practices, from planting to processing. Technology enables crop production in urban areas, but this requires reliable electricity. In healthcare, state-owned hospitals often struggle due to power outages. Instances of using torch lights during childbirth and limited laboratory tests due to irregular power especially at Primary Health Care Centers are unacceptable. Reliable power is essential for healthcare facilities to function effectively, reducing mortality rates and improving health outcomes.

The new Act grants states regulatory oversight of mini-grid projects, provided they establish the necessary legal and institutional framework. States like Lagos, Ondo, and Ekitihave made progress, but others must follow suit. We cannot continue to have state leaders who think for themselves and do not consider the impact of making wrong policies and decisions. For example, Sokoto government in 2018 initiated a diesel-powered plant without considering fuel costs, despite having abundant solar resources. Understanding the primary source of electricity and conducting thorough research is crucial.

Ghana’s recent construction of Africa’s largest floating solar PV plant in Bui which is expected to sustain so many SMEs across the country demonstrates the potential for innovative solutions. States with abundant water resources can adopt similar projects, partnering with international companies for sustainable power solutions. These environmentally and commercially viable initiatives are welcome going by the provisions of the Electricity Act.

Year in, year out, state governments struggle with basic responsibilities due to low internally generated revenue (IGR). Prioritizing electricity reliability can transform state economies. In China and other developed nations, entrepreneurship is encouraged through the provision of essential amenities, including power.

As a computer programmer, for example, pursuing a career without a functional computer system and reliable electricity is nearly impossible. This challenge, among others, drives young entrepreneurs to Lagos, a state committed to empowering its people by ensuring adequate power supply. Lagos’ dedication to reliable electricity creates an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship, attracting talent from across the country. Reliable electricity can unlock the potential of young entrepreneurs, fostering innovation and economic growth.

States have to rise up to provide an alternative for such an irreparable mess we have found ourselves so as to promote their respective economic activities. Power generated in Ogwashi-Ukwu can serve the people of Delta North and the same can be replicated across the state. Whatever it takes to revive the situation must be done right now as states cannot continue to depend on the nation’s monthly cake. The people need jobs and miracles cannot solve that. Only high initiatives from the state can ensure constant power supply and ultimately, a conducive environment.

The success of a nation depends on the collective efforts of its sub-nationals. State participation in electricity generation and distribution is crucial for Nigeria’s development. This is a call to action for state governments to embrace the new Electricity Act and harness its benefits for their people. The potential for growth and progress is immense, but it requires commitment and strategic implementation from every state.

Global Affairs

Iran–Israel War Escalates: Today’s Attacks, Trump’s Warning & Biblical Insights

The Iran–Israel conflict has surged into a full-fledged air war with growing humanitarian tolls. Trump’s evacuation call adds urgency and affects global stability.

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Iran–Israel War Escalates in today’s Attacks

Latest Developments

  • Israel’s Operation Rising Lion launched coordinated airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear sites (Natanz, Isfahan, Fordow), key IRGC commanders, and missile infrastructure—including in Tehran—claiming “total air superiority” (theguardian.com).
  • Iran retaliated with over 300 missiles and drones, landing in Tel Aviv, Haifa, and other regions (apnews.com).

Current Casualties & Damage

  • Iran: Health Ministry reports 224 killed, ~1,277 injured; independent sources suggest up to 400+ deaths, many civilians, with extensive damage to city infrastructures—water, power, hospitals (theguardian.com).
  • Israel: Official sources confirm 24 civilian deaths, ~60–500 injured from Iranian strikes (apnews.com).

Official Statements

President Donald Trump

  • Urged all Tehran residents to vacate right away; left G7 early to address crisis (reuters.com).
  • Pushed for a “real deal” nuclear agreement with Iran, denying ceasefire claims (reuters.com).

Israeli Government (PM & IDF)

  • PM Netanyahu stated the operation will persist “as many days as needed to neutralize the threat”—emphasizing hits on nuclear/scientific and missile facilities (understandingwar.org).
  • The military claims destruction of 120 missile launchers (~1/3 of Iran’s stockpile) and “total air superiority” over Tehran (theguardian.com).

Iranian Response


Humanitarian Impact & Civilian Exodus

  • Over 100,000 Tehran residents have fled northwards to Mazandaran, Gilan, and Alborz provinces (en.wikipedia.org).
  • Reports of fuel shortages, hospital strain, internet blackouts, and psychological distress are emerging (en.wikipedia.org).

🔮 What’s Next?

  1. Further military escalation — Iran may strike U.S. or allies if intervention continues (understandingwar.org).
  2. Nuclear diplomacy in limbo — Iran paused talks pending Israeli ceasefire; Trump supports negotiation .
  3. Broader regional ripple effects — Proxy groups, including Hezbollah, Houthis, and Iraqi militias, could escalate (en.wikipedia.org).
  4. Global economic disruptions — Oil prices spiked after Tehran warnings; airlines diverted flights (en.wikipedia.org).

Biblical Perspective

  • Operation Rising Lion invokes Isaiah 31:4 (“As a lion… roars!”), reinforcing Israel’s belief in its God-given resolve (newarab.com).
  • Some Christian prophecy scholars see this as part of eschatological build-up (Ezekiel 38, Isaiah 17)—though cautioned by others to avoid hasty conclusions (forums.crosswalk.com).
  • Biblical themes abound: calls for justice, divine defense, and the lament over cities under siege echo Psalms and prophets (e.g., Lamentations 2:1; Joel 3:2). Prayer for peace and wisdom is urged.

Key Takeaways

  • The Iran–Israel conflict has surged into a full-fledged air war with growing humanitarian tolls.
  • Trump’s evacuation call adds urgency and affects global stability.
  • Expect continued conflict, potential negotiations, and regional escalation.
  • Many believers are interpreting the events through biblical lenses—prayers for peace are critical.

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Global Affairs

Israel-Iran Conflict: History, Latest Impact & Solutions–Trackingtimes

This opposition has led to covert operations and battlefield skirmishes across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.

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Trackingtimes News & Politics

Historical Background

Since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, tensions with Israel have grown over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and support for proxy militias like Hezbollah. Israel has consistently opposed any perceived existential threat. This opposition has led to covert operations and battlefield skirmishes across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen. These conflicts are mostly orchestrated from the shadows. This rivalry has rarely escalated into full-scale war.


Most Recent Updates & Casualties

🛑 Israeli “Operation Rising Lion” (Started June 13)

  • Targets hit: Over 100 Iranian sites—including Natanz and Isfahan nuclear facilities, IRGC bases, missile production plants, Tehran’s Ministry of Defense HQ, and oil/fuel depots near Tehran (english.mathrubhumi.com, theguardian.com, en.wikipedia.org, wsj.com).
  • Casualties in Iran: At least 78–224 killed (including 20+ senior commanders such as Maj Gen Mohammad Bagheri, Gen Hossein Salami, Gen Gholam Ali Rashid, Gen Amir Ali Hajizadeh); 6–14 nuclear scientists killed; hundreds wounded; many civilians among victims (theguardian.com).
  • Notable death: Brigadier Gen Mehdi Rabbani and his family were killed in one strike (en.wikipedia.org).

🇮🇷 Iranian Retaliation

  • Missile & drone attacks: Waves launched at Tel Aviv and Haifa; 65 ballistic missiles and scores of drones fired (theguardian.com).
  • Casualties in Israel: At least 14–24 killed and ~390 injured; critical infrastructure—including a power plant and U.S. Embassy wing—was damaged (theguardian.com).

Official Statements

Iran – Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei

“Israel opened its wicked and blood‑stained hand… will receive a bitter and painful fate… severe punishment awaits.” (thedailyguardian.com)

Israel – Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

“We acted pre‑emptively to prevent Iran’s nuclear bomb… we’ll do what we need to do. Regime change is possible.” (ft.com)

USA – President Donald Trump

“We were aware of the impending Israeli operation… working behind the scenes on a deal… vetoed Israeli plan to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader… unprecedented retaliation if Iran targets the U.S.” (theguardian.com)


🌍 Regional & Global Impacts

Middle East

  • New proxy wars erupt across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.
  • Oil markets surged, then stabilized—global energy remains vulnerable .
  • Gulf and NATO countries deploy military to deter escalation amid high tensions (theguardian.com).

USA

  • Supports Israel’s missile defenses and may deploy naval vessels.
  • Oil price fluctuations could worsen inflation.
  • Diplomatic pressure mounts with vetoes and summit-level interventions .

Africa

  • Rising oil prices strain developing economies.
  • Cargo and shipping risks impact African trade.
  • Diaspora populations in Africa may intensify local debates or protests via spiritual and cultural channels.

📖 Historical & Biblical Lens

  • Biblical parallels: Books like Ezekiel (chapters 38–39) discuss invasions from the North targeting Israel. Some interpret modern Iranian threats through this prophetic narrative.
  • Spiritual implications: Maxwell Nnawuihe’s teachings on justice, fearlessness, and faith echo strongly amid this crisis.
  • Economic ties: Faith & Fortune Finance’s messages on biblical stewardship and fiscal resilience are directly relevant as nations and individuals face uncertainty.

🕊️ Pathways to Peace

  1. U.N.-mediated ceasefire with verified arms monitoring to halt further strikes.
  2. Inclusive regional security framework involving Gulf states, Iraq, and Syria to reduce proxy aggression.
  3. Faith-driven diplomacy: Interfaith councils (Christian-Muslim-Jewish) promoting reconciliation, trust-building, and shared economic ventures.
  4. Economic resilience programs: Channel resources into reconstruction and economic stability—aligning with themes from Faith & Fortune Finance’s “Kingdom Wealth” strategy.

  • Faith & Fortune Finance’s content tied to economic resilience:
  • “Biblical Wealth Under Crisis”
  • “Kingdom Finances When Markets Shake”

Maxwell Nnawuihe’s video on prophetic motivation and fearless leadership:

“Courageous Voices Precede Peace”

Conclusion

This Israel–Iran conflict marks a historic escalation, with devastating strikes, high-profile casualties, and global political impact. Blending historical, biblical, and economic insight provides deeper understanding—and grounds your YouTube channels in relevance.

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Biafra

Tinubu Refused To Honour Our Agreement To Release Nnamdi Kanu After Election– Kanu’s Brother

Disclosing that the meeting had the blessing of the president, Emmanuel, however, lamented that Tinubu has refused to honour the pact by releasing his elder brother and the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the DSS dungeon in Abuja, Nigeria.

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Emmanuel Kanu, younger brother of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, has said they had an agreement with President Bola Tinubu for the release of his elder brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Emmanuel disclosed that he had the pact with Tinubu’s son, Seyi, in Abuja before the 2023 presidential election.

Disclosing that the meeting had the blessing of the president, Emmanuel, however, lamented that Tinubu has refused to honour the pact by releasing his elder brother and the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the DSS dungeon in Abuja, Nigeria.

According to him, it was agreed that IPOB would not bycott the polls on the condition that Tinubu would release Kanu if elected President.

Prince Emmanuel expressed disappointment that nearly two years after the emergence of Tinubu as President, his brother (Kanu), has continued to languish in detention despite the fact that the presiding Judge, Justice Binta Nyako, had since recused herself from the matter.

He said it was disappointing that those who claimed to be honourable, failed to keep their words.

The statement read:”Before the last election, I received a message from an ex-governor that Seyi the son of President Tinubu wanted to see me. I agreed to meet with him on the condition that the overriding priority and hence the fulcrum of our discussion will be the release of my brother. The meeting was held in Abuja in the presence of another individual whom I asked along to witness the deliberations and if need be provide independent verification should the need arise.

“Seyi confirmed to me that his father sanctioned the meeting and that I should consider any agreement we reach as binding on the then candidate Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

READ ALSO: BREAKING: Justice Binta Nyako Steps Down From Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial, As He Fearlessly Scolds Her For Disobeying Supreme Court’s Judgment

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Nnamdi Kanu Facing The Most Violation Of Fundamental Human Rights In The World- Ohanaeze Youth Council.

“In good faith we agreed that I shall relay the outcome to my brother to reinforce the long held tradition of IPOB not interfering with the conduct of elections, either through boycott or any other form of civil disobedience. This understanding was duly communicated to my brother and he reaffirmed his commitment not to stop the elections or order any boycott.

“When President Tinubu as a candidate visited Owerri during his campaign, he too reiterated his commitment to facilitate the release of my brother if elected. We took his public statement as a tacit reaffirmation of the understanding I reached with his son Seyi.

“At the end, IPOB did not call for election boycott despite having the capacity to do so. IPOB also made sure that discordant voices urging election boycott were overcome because election boycotts would not reflect well on the reputation of a global movement that prides itself on adherence to democratic tenets.

“It therefore, defies logic that nearly two years after President Tinubu assumed the mantle of leadership in Nigeria, my brother is still in detention despite not having any charge against him. It’s been over three months now that Justice Binta Nyako recused herself from the case yet no new judge has been assigned the case.

“This is on top of the fact that Appeal Court had earlier discharged him of the sham charges and ordered his release which the previous regime of Buhari declined to obey.

“Supreme Court determination that his bail ought not to have been revoked has been ignored by the courts and the government. The latest insult is that Abuja courts of all persuasion are no longer willing to determine the case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on merit but are rather relying on ludicrous and inapplicable technicalities to stall the timely determination of his cases.

“The truth is that Nigerian courts cannot, will not and do not have both the substantive and procedural jurisdiction to try him. His detention is without the backing of any known law in Nigeria or elsewhere in the world.”

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