… Lagos Green Line, Kano, Kaduna rail schemes to boost connectivity

… Tinubu to chair power sector task force as reforms gather pace

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Thursday approved a $2.99 billion package of rail infrastructure projects and the establishment of a Presidential Task Force on Power Sector Reform, in a move signalling a renewed push by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deepen infrastructure development and unlock economic growth.

Briefing State House correspondents after the Council meeting, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, said the rail projects span key urban corridors and are designed to enhance mobility, reduce congestion, and stimulate regional commerce.

He listed the projects as the Lagos Green Line Rail, the Kano State Metro Rail, and the Kaduna State Rail project, noting that they have already been captured in the extended 2025 budget.

“The Federal Executive Council approved three transformative rail projects – Lagos Green Line, Kano State Metro Rail, and Kaduna State Rail project. These projects are to be sponsored by the Ministry of Finance Incorporated,” Oyedele said.

He explained that the approvals align with the administration’s broader infrastructure strategy, which prioritises rail transport as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to road networks.

The Lagos Green Line is expected to complement existing mass transit systems in the commercial hub, while the Kano and Kaduna rail schemes are projected to boost passenger and freight movement across northern Nigeria, improving trade and economic activity.

In a related development, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the creation of a Presidential Task Force on Power Sector Reform, alongside key appointments aimed at strengthening governance in the electricity industry.

Idris said the Council approved the appointment of former Minister of Power, Lanre Babalola, as Special Adviser on Power to the President, to enhance coordination and policy oversight.

He disclosed that the President would chair the task force, with Babalola playing a central role in driving its activities.

‘Why FEC approved revised national urban development policy’
Easter: FEC urges Christians to embrace peace, love

“The task force is part of renewed efforts by the administration to reposition the power sector as a critical driver of industrialisation and economic growth,” Idris said.

According to him, the decision followed the submission of a report by a presidential committee set up on March 4 to review the commercial and institutional framework for the proposed Grid Asset Management Company (GAMCO).

He noted that the task force brings together key stakeholders, including the Ministers of Finance, Power, Industry, Trade and Investment, Information, and the Attorney-General of the Federation, alongside regulators and representatives of electricity generation and distribution companies.

Idris said the body would focus on implementing far-reaching reforms to address structural bottlenecks in the sector, stressing that stable electricity supply remains central to Nigeria’s economic transformation.

He added that the government is committed to a comprehensive overhaul of the power sector to unlock industrial productivity and improve living standards.

The minister further disclosed that the FEC meeting was preceded by the swearing-in of a National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and four Permanent Secretaries.

He said President Tinubu administered the oath of office on retired Rear Admiral K. M. Marafa as INEC National Commissioner following her confirmation by the National Assembly.

Idris added that the Council deliberated on a 32-point agenda, reflecting what he described as the administration’s broad reform focus across critical sectors of the economy.

…directs action against sponsors of violence, backs Plateau peace committee

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday night declared that attempts by his political opponents to exploit insecurity to force him out of office would fail, insisting that he would not only remain in office but also seek a second term.

Speaking at the State House, Abuja, while receiving stakeholders from Plateau State, led by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the President described himself as resolute in the face of political pressure.

“You are playing to the hand of agents, including my own enemies, who want to use insecurity to get rid of me. But I’m a very stubborn politician. I just refuse to go. And I will campaign for my second term,” Tinubu said.

The President warned that the Federal Government would move decisively against individuals found to be instigating or financing violence across the country, stressing that credible intelligence would be acted upon without delay.

“If you identify and you know the name of troublemakers, agents provocateur, who want to continue killing or instigate killing, let us know. We will use the instrument of office to deal with them,” he said.

Tinubu emphasised that security agencies stand ready to confront such threats once actionable information is provided, noting that the recurring cycle of violence must end.

In a move to strengthen peace efforts in Plateau State, the President also endorsed a newly constituted peace committee comprising former governors of the state, charging them to work collectively toward lasting solutions.

He directed the committee to review existing white papers on past conflicts and harmonise recommendations for implementation.

“Call one another. Ignore the Governor’s Committee if you have to, or incorporate them. Take that white paper, go through it among yourselves and agree to implement it.

“If the ones you have chosen before now are not working, you have to mix and amend membership. Forget those committees you mentioned to me, if it’s not working, it’s not working. Consider this group as the committee until we find a lasting solution,” the President said.

Zenith Bank Plc has announced the opening of its Côte d’Ivoire subsidiary, marking a pivotal achievement in the Group’s Pan-African expansion strategy.The official opening ceremony, scheduled to hold on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, is expected to attract senior government officials and regulators from Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, continental business leaders, and members of the diplomatic community, highlighting the strategic economic ties and investment opportunities between the two markets.The new subsidiary, licensed in December 2025 by the Ministry of Finance and Budget, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, and regulated by the UMOA Banking Commission, will commence operations from its headquarters at SCI Wall Street, Avenue Noguès, Plateau, Abidjan.The launch represents a strategic move to deepen the Bank’s presence in Francophone West Africa and strengthen financial intermediation within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU). Positioned as a gateway for cross-border trade and investment, Zenith Bank Côte d’Ivoire will focus on corporate banking, trade finance, local and offshore banking services, and structured financial solutions tailored to businesses operating across Africa and internationally.Commenting on the launch, the Group Managing Director/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, said: “From the very beginning, our Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia CFR, set out to build a truly global brand with a strong presence across Africa and key international markets. The launch of Zenith Bank Côte d’Ivoire is a bold step in realising that vision; opening a strategic corridor into Francophone West Africa and reinforcing our commitment to facilitating trade, investment, and enterprise growth across the continent. As we continue to expand thoughtfully and strategically, we remain focused on delivering world-class banking solutions that connect African businesses to global opportunities.”The new subsidiary will be headed by MD/CEO Mr. Cédric Tano, a seasoned banking executive with over two decades of experience. Speaking ahead of the official opening, he said “We are proud to establish Zenith Bank’s presence in Côte d’Ivoire at a time of strong economic growth in the country and increasing regional integration. Our focus is to showcase the Zenith brand as a customer-centric institution that combines global best practices with deep local insight. We are well positioned to support businesses with innovative financing solutions, facilitate cross-border trade, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the Ivorian economy and the wider WAEMU region.”The Côte d’Ivoire launch forms part of Zenith Bank’s broader continental growth strategy. In addition to the Anglophone countries where it currently operates, and in line with the expansion into the Francophone market, the Bank has commenced its entry process into the CEMAC (Central African Economic and Monetary Community) region, with Cameroon as the focal point. With a footprint already spanning Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, the United Kingdom, France, the UAE, and China, Zenith Bank continues to bridge African markets with global opportunities, enabling seamless trade and financial connectivity across the continent and beyond.

Founded in 1990, Zenith Bank has grown into one of Africa’s most respected banking institutions, boasting a robust capital base and a consistent track record of strong financial performance. For 16 consecutive years, the Bank has held the record of highest Tier-1 capital in the Nigerian banking industry. Built on the foundation of People, Technology, and Service, Zenith Bank continues to deliver innovative financial solutions while maintaining a disciplined approach to growth and risk management. Its performance has earned it numerous local and international recognitions and endorsements.

… Lagos Green Line, Kano, Kaduna rail schemes to boost connectivity

… Tinubu to chair power sector task force as reforms gather pace

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Thursday approved a $2.99 billion package of rail infrastructure projects and the establishment of a Presidential Task Force on Power Sector Reform, in a move signalling a renewed push by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deepen infrastructure development and unlock economic growth.

Briefing State House correspondents after the Council meeting, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, said the rail projects span key urban corridors and are designed to enhance mobility, reduce congestion, and stimulate regional commerce.

He listed the projects as the Lagos Green Line Rail, the Kano State Metro Rail, and the Kaduna State Rail project, noting that they have already been captured in the extended 2025 budget.

“The Federal Executive Council approved three transformative rail projects – Lagos Green Line, Kano State Metro Rail, and Kaduna State Rail project. These projects are to be sponsored by the Ministry of Finance Incorporated,” Oyedele said.

He explained that the approvals align with the administration’s broader infrastructure strategy, which prioritises rail transport as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to road networks.

The Lagos Green Line is expected to complement existing mass transit systems in the commercial hub, while the Kano and Kaduna rail schemes are projected to boost passenger and freight movement across northern Nigeria, improving trade and economic activity.

In a related development, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the creation of a Presidential Task Force on Power Sector Reform, alongside key appointments aimed at strengthening governance in the electricity industry.

Idris said the Council approved the appointment of former Minister of Power, Lanre Babalola, as Special Adviser on Power to the President, to enhance coordination and policy oversight.

He disclosed that the President would chair the task force, with Babalola playing a central role in driving its activities.

‘Why FEC approved revised national urban development policy’
Easter: FEC urges Christians to embrace peace, love

“The task force is part of renewed efforts by the administration to reposition the power sector as a critical driver of industrialisation and economic growth,” Idris said.

According to him, the decision followed the submission of a report by a presidential committee set up on March 4 to review the commercial and institutional framework for the proposed Grid Asset Management Company (GAMCO).

He noted that the task force brings together key stakeholders, including the Ministers of Finance, Power, Industry, Trade and Investment, Information, and the Attorney-General of the Federation, alongside regulators and representatives of electricity generation and distribution companies.

Idris said the body would focus on implementing far-reaching reforms to address structural bottlenecks in the sector, stressing that stable electricity supply remains central to Nigeria’s economic transformation.

He added that the government is committed to a comprehensive overhaul of the power sector to unlock industrial productivity and improve living standards.

The minister further disclosed that the FEC meeting was preceded by the swearing-in of a National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and four Permanent Secretaries.

He said President Tinubu administered the oath of office on retired Rear Admiral K. M. Marafa as INEC National Commissioner following her confirmation by the National Assembly.

Idris added that the Council deliberated on a 32-point agenda, reflecting what he described as the administration’s broad reform focus across critical sectors of the economy.

…directs action against sponsors of violence, backs Plateau peace committee

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday night declared that attempts by his political opponents to exploit insecurity to force him out of office would fail, insisting that he would not only remain in office but also seek a second term.

Speaking at the State House, Abuja, while receiving stakeholders from Plateau State, led by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the President described himself as resolute in the face of political pressure.

“You are playing to the hand of agents, including my own enemies, who want to use insecurity to get rid of me. But I’m a very stubborn politician. I just refuse to go. And I will campaign for my second term,” Tinubu said.

The President warned that the Federal Government would move decisively against individuals found to be instigating or financing violence across the country, stressing that credible intelligence would be acted upon without delay.

“If you identify and you know the name of troublemakers, agents provocateur, who want to continue killing or instigate killing, let us know. We will use the instrument of office to deal with them,” he said.

Tinubu emphasised that security agencies stand ready to confront such threats once actionable information is provided, noting that the recurring cycle of violence must end.

In a move to strengthen peace efforts in Plateau State, the President also endorsed a newly constituted peace committee comprising former governors of the state, charging them to work collectively toward lasting solutions.

He directed the committee to review existing white papers on past conflicts and harmonise recommendations for implementation.

“Call one another. Ignore the Governor’s Committee if you have to, or incorporate them. Take that white paper, go through it among yourselves and agree to implement it.

“If the ones you have chosen before now are not working, you have to mix and amend membership. Forget those committees you mentioned to me, if it’s not working, it’s not working. Consider this group as the committee until we find a lasting solution,” the President said.

Zenith Bank Plc has announced the opening of its Côte d’Ivoire subsidiary, marking a pivotal achievement in the Group’s Pan-African expansion strategy.The official opening ceremony, scheduled to hold on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, is expected to attract senior government officials and regulators from Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, continental business leaders, and members of the diplomatic community, highlighting the strategic economic ties and investment opportunities between the two markets.The new subsidiary, licensed in December 2025 by the Ministry of Finance and Budget, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, and regulated by the UMOA Banking Commission, will commence operations from its headquarters at SCI Wall Street, Avenue Noguès, Plateau, Abidjan.The launch represents a strategic move to deepen the Bank’s presence in Francophone West Africa and strengthen financial intermediation within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU). Positioned as a gateway for cross-border trade and investment, Zenith Bank Côte d’Ivoire will focus on corporate banking, trade finance, local and offshore banking services, and structured financial solutions tailored to businesses operating across Africa and internationally.Commenting on the launch, the Group Managing Director/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, said: “From the very beginning, our Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia CFR, set out to build a truly global brand with a strong presence across Africa and key international markets. The launch of Zenith Bank Côte d’Ivoire is a bold step in realising that vision; opening a strategic corridor into Francophone West Africa and reinforcing our commitment to facilitating trade, investment, and enterprise growth across the continent. As we continue to expand thoughtfully and strategically, we remain focused on delivering world-class banking solutions that connect African businesses to global opportunities.”The new subsidiary will be headed by MD/CEO Mr. Cédric Tano, a seasoned banking executive with over two decades of experience. Speaking ahead of the official opening, he said “We are proud to establish Zenith Bank’s presence in Côte d’Ivoire at a time of strong economic growth in the country and increasing regional integration. Our focus is to showcase the Zenith brand as a customer-centric institution that combines global best practices with deep local insight. We are well positioned to support businesses with innovative financing solutions, facilitate cross-border trade, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the Ivorian economy and the wider WAEMU region.”The Côte d’Ivoire launch forms part of Zenith Bank’s broader continental growth strategy. In addition to the Anglophone countries where it currently operates, and in line with the expansion into the Francophone market, the Bank has commenced its entry process into the CEMAC (Central African Economic and Monetary Community) region, with Cameroon as the focal point. With a footprint already spanning Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, the United Kingdom, France, the UAE, and China, Zenith Bank continues to bridge African markets with global opportunities, enabling seamless trade and financial connectivity across the continent and beyond.

Founded in 1990, Zenith Bank has grown into one of Africa’s most respected banking institutions, boasting a robust capital base and a consistent track record of strong financial performance. For 16 consecutive years, the Bank has held the record of highest Tier-1 capital in the Nigerian banking industry. Built on the foundation of People, Technology, and Service, Zenith Bank continues to deliver innovative financial solutions while maintaining a disciplined approach to growth and risk management. Its performance has earned it numerous local and international recognitions and endorsements.