Connect with us

news

The Tank Farm/Satellite Town Saga:

Published

on

……The True Story

The Festering story of the Satellite Town and Tank Farm are not getting abated, if the truth must be told. Banters and expansions on the raging matter were espoused by opposing parties on the issues, and the interesting conclusion is that both parties have now agreed on a Mutual and Consolidated Agreement to move on and make things Workable in the interest of Peace, Harmony and Progress.

Residents of a largely populated area in satellite town area of Lagos state, have cried out to the Lagos state Government to come out to their aid on the activities of Tank farm in their immediate vicinity.

The residents made up mainly of all the Estates, roads and close accessed through the old, worn-out, frail,   rocky   and gully road of the area linked to old Ojo Road, Wobbly Navy Road, and the uncharted shell-Abule  Osun Road, with the broken steps and ridges and water collectors interior, are gathered here at the closest level of government.

They are   bemoaning  their  state  of  desolation   and now earnestly drawing the attention of the government to the very appalling and deplorable situation of their Community.

Their groves rise from the operation of a disparate group of over 50 Tank farms operated by 13 marketing Companies.

This  ugly   situation   led to a massive protest by the residents who trooped out on Tuesday ,July 9, 2019 to condemn what they describe as unwarranted invasion of their  community by the oil company. They therefore insisted that the operators should relocate their companies to another area as the current is becoming inhabitable due to environmental   pollution   ravaging  the  community.

According to the chairman, Satellite Town Forum, Mr. Michael Imitinl, all government agencies should plan well before approving location of facilities in areas to avoid ugly situation in future just like what is happening in the  Niger Delta.

However, we also  heared  the side of Tank Farms  via  the  secretary,  Ijegun-Egba Tank Farms Owners/ Operators, Satellite Town, Lagos Barrister  Eslist  Eslist who explained, ‘What is essential  is that, whatever we discussed at inception of the relationship  is that both parties should adhere to the black and white of the deal.

We don’t have issue, their demand are roads, infrastructural deficit which civil construction are going on  at Pioneer Road, the road will be fully rehabilitated.  Before our company starts operation at Satellite Town,  we have to pass through Marwa Road, every collapsed portion in that area has  been rehabilitated by our Tank Farm is 3.8 km road beginning of Marwa Road down to the end is long term measure with   expansion and  the drainage. The  issue  of flooding whatever concerns the community also concerns us. We want to take water out of the Community down to the lagoon. Work is in progress and the engineer in charge is the Nigerian Army  Construction  Company .  Eventually, whatever that is affecting the community in terms of drainage, water and flooding has  been addressed. An  expansion  of the road is on going which will  be completed soon.  What   we  need   from the  community is cooperation in terms of relationship.  As a corporate organization, enjoying   good relationship with the community people is our priority.

We have had several meetings and  the  most  important thing is whether the work we promised  has commenced or not. Yes, it has commenced, and they are seeing it going on smoothly, and this is why we are appealing to the Community to  be   patient as the work goes on. We are on the job, and will not abandon the job half-way until it is finished  beyond  logical  conclusion.  Above this, our presence, whether you like it or not,   has made this community a better one in the  eyes  of the external world,  and we are even making moves to make satellite Town/ Ijegun Egba Community more attractive. It is only good for our Company, not the Hearken to the needs of the Community and we are ever ready to give them what they most desired as  part of our Corporate Social Responsibility.  We have a cordial relationship with the Community, and it is only a foolish businessman that will operate in a hostile environment, especially when people around him are unhappy. They believe that Tank farm will turn the place into an economic zone, and the Government will be easily attracted to the Community. That is why the LASG has been sending their Interventional team to establish a fire- fighting unity in the Community, just as Tank Farms has established its own fire combating outfit, which can also serve the Community, in case of any unexpected fire outbreak.

We are not here illegally we are here Legitimately, and all Companies are duly approved and licensed by Government, so whatever we are doing here is backed by law, and we can only add value to the surrounding Communities by giving them what they lack, by way of Amenities.

On whatever there were prior meetings between firms and the Community, it was ascertained that several meeting were held between both parties and those meetings  ended

in mutual agreement of how the company and the Community can move forward in terms of community development and Corporate Social Responsibility on the part of Tank Farm.

Also, the coordinator, Ijegun- Egba Tank farms owners and Operators Association,  Alhaji Ibrahim Muhammed corroborated the earlier  speaker.

He said,  we have met with the Community severally, and we have briefed them on the work that is going on which they readily saw and identified. Actually, we are supposed to have started earlier than this, but because of the rain, we had to start in May, and hopefully, when the rain  subsides, we should be through with the work by the end of September, all things being equal why the work has not been progressing is because of the weather; if not so the work should have been completed since but that is not an excuse for us.  We can only hope that the Community will bear with us, even as they can see that work is going on steadily and in no time, they will begin to enjoy the goodies of the job.

Another issue is that of misplacement of trust among the various parties involved. Many meetings were called and invitation sent to the community to address the main issue, only for the Community to renege and give them their own condition, which was to come and meet them at their own behest, with express permission and approval from their directors. They are however waiting for another meeting that can be mutually fixed and issues settled amicably. As for the Tank Farm, they have been job opportunities for the community, and this will not stop  because as long as the  inhabitants  are gainfully employed, the Tank farms will also be greatly rewarded by what the people are giving back to them. So it is a gain-gain situation for the two parties. Tank farms and satellite town entities. Good enough, all the Tank farms have now come together as one body to come as a positive Form in aid of the Community, and this is a good signal for good things to come  which include,

 medical facility, education, social amenities that will further raise the standard of the satellite town Community. This will be coming as a collective responsibility of the Tank farmers and the host Community.

 

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

news

Dangote Refinery to Begin Nationwide Distribution of PMS, Diesel, for smooth logistics to marketers

Published

on

 

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced that it will begin distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel nationwide.

The statement added that the Refinery has invested in the procurement of 4,000 brand-new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers to ensure smooth take-off of the scheme, which will continue over an extended timeframe

The statement said, “To ensure the smooth takeoff of the free logistics for marketers and petrol dealers buying from Dangote, the statement further disclosed that the refinery has procured 4,000 brand-new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers.

“This phase of the programme will continue over an extended timeframe. The refinery is also investing in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations, commonly referred to as daughter booster stations, supported by a fleet of over 100 CNG tankers across the country to ensure seamless product distribution.

This strategic programme is part of our broader commitment to eliminating logistics costs, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting sustainability and supporting Nigeria’s economic development. It affirms our dedication to improving the availability and affordability of fuel, in support of broader efforts to strengthen the economy and improve the well-being of all Nigerians.

“Under this initiative, all petrol stations purchasing PMS and diesel from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery will benefit from this enhanced logistics support. Key sectors such as manufacturing, telecommunications, and others will also gain from this transformative initiative, as reduced fuel costs will contribute to lower production costs, reduced inflation, and foster economic growth. Players in these key sectors and others can purchase directly from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced that it will begin distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel nationwide.

In a statement on Sunday, the company said effective from 15th of August 2025, it will begin the distribution of the products to marketers, petrol dealers, manufacturers, telecoms firms, aviation, and other large users across the country, with free logistics to boost distribution network.

The move, according to the company, was a significant national initiative aimed at transforming Nigeria’s fuel distribution landscape.

The statement added that the Refinery has invested in the procurement of 4,000 brand-new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers to ensure smooth take-off of the scheme, which will continue over an extended timeframe.

“This phase of the programme will continue over an extended timeframe. The refinery is also investing in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations, commonly referred to as daughter booster stations, supported by a fleet of over 100 CNG tankers across the country to ensure seamless product distribution.

“This strategic programme is part of our broader commitment to eliminating logistics costs, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting sustainability and supporting Nigeria’s economic development. It affirms our dedication to improving the availability and affordability of fuel, in support of broader efforts to strengthen the economy and improve the well-being of all Nigerians.

“Under this initiative, all petrol stations purchasing PMS and diesel from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery will benefit from this enhanced logistics support. Key sectors such as manufacturing, telecommunications, and others will also gain from this transformative initiative, as reduced fuel costs will contribute to lower production costs, reduced inflation, and foster economic growth. Players in these key sectors and others can purchase directly from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.”

The statement added that the refinery will offer a credit facility to those purchasing a minimum of 500,000 litres, which would allow them to obtain an additional 500,000 litres on credit for two weeks, under bank guarantee.

It described the effort as a milestone in its vision to revolutionise the Nigeria’s energy sector.

“This pioneering effort marks a major milestone in our vision to revolutionise Nigeria’s energy sector. Dangote Refinery is dedicated to ensuring that no place is left behind. Our goal is to provide equitable access to affordable fuel for all Nigerians, regardless of location, making energy more accessible and sustainable for everyone, wherever they may b

 

Continue Reading

news

NMA FCT Issues Indefinite Strike Threat Over Alleged Ethnic Victimisation and Unjust Dismissal of Three Abuja Doctors

Published

on

Tensions are rising at the National Hospital Abuja (NHA) as the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) FCT Branch threatens an indefinite strike following the controversial dismissal of three medical doctors. According to insider sources, the crisis is unfolding under the leadership of Dr. Mahmud Raji, the Chief Medical Director (CMD), who is alleged to be using his office to intimidate these doctors—believed to have been targeted because of their opinions. This disturbing allegation has intensified outrage within the medical community, raising serious concerns about fairness, professionalism, and ethnic bias within the healthcare system.

In what is fast becoming a major flashpoint in Nigeria’s embattled healthcare sector, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) FCT Branch has issued a 14-day strike ultimatum to the management of National Hospital Abuja over the controversial and unexplained disengagement of three medical doctors who have served the hospital diligently for years.

In a strongly worded notice dated June 11, 2025, following its Ordinary General Meeting (OGM) held at the VIP Hall of the Federal Medical Centre Abuja, the NMA FCT leadership formally communicated its dissatisfaction with the National Hospital’s refusal to reinstate its disengaged members. The affected doctors, who completed their residency training in 2020, were appointed as locum consultants in March 2022 after working as post-Part II fellows. After three years of dedicated service, they were abruptly dismissed without any stated reason—unlike their contemporaries who remain in service. The hospital only stated that “their services were no longer needed” and advised them to reapply when vacancies arise.

The association described the move as selective victimisation and scapegoating, pointing out that 30 doctors were employed under similar terms, yet only three were let go. Multiple advocacy efforts—including visits from the NMA President, FCT Chairman, and a committee of senior, reputable medical professionals—have all been ignored by the hospital’s leadership.

The NMA expressed deep frustration that despite its peaceful engagement efforts, the hospital remained unmoved, even in the face of the ongoing “japa” wave—mass migration of medical professionals abroad—leaving Nigeria’s healthcare system dangerously understaffed.

“This disengagement worsens an already fragile system, adding to the mental and economic burdens of doctors, increasing anxiety and threatening family stability,” the NMA noted in its communiqué.

The association has now declared that if the doctors are not reinstated, members at National Hospital Abuja will embark on a total and indefinite strike from June 30, 2025, following a two-week warning strike from June 15–29. If after seven days of this action no resolution is achieved, the entire NMA FCT branch will join the strike in solidarity.

Investigations within the hospital revealed that the affected doctors had no records of disciplinary actions or professional misconduct. Their Heads of Department (HODs) had recommended them for continued service, and it was confirmed that they were already on the IPPIS scale, meaning they posed no additional financial burden to the hospital.

The outrage is further fueled by the irony that, while NMA is pushing for an increase in doctors’ retirement age to 70 due to acute personnel shortages, National Hospital is disengaging young, skilled doctors who chose to remain in Nigeria instead of seeking better opportunities abroad. “Are we saying NHA has enough specialists to let go of such committed professionals?” the association questioned.

Doctors familiar with the affected doctors shared personal testimonies: “I worked with Dr. Fernandez during the COVID-19 pandemic. We carried out countless caesarean sections when fear was palpable. Only a doctor with heart would do that. Is this how the system rewards bravery?”

Emotionally charged reactions have poured in from across the country. A senior doctor lamented: “It’s difficult to believe that doctors would ignore juicy offers abroad to make the sacrifice of practising in Nigeria, only to be treated like trash for speaking up on poor welfare. How do you keep a doctor as locum for 3 years, earning barely ₦400,000, and expect them to live a dignified life? This is the reward for years of service?”

He added that the refusal of the hospital to heed the advice of the NMA President and respected elders “is deeply worrisome” and raises concerns of possible hidden motives.

The broader concern is that this crisis could demoralize others in the system. “We are already overwhelmed, underpaid, and understaffed, yet our sacrifices are ignored,” the doctor continued. “Meanwhile, national honours are reserved for political loyalists, while real heroes are discarded.”

He appealed to the NMA and well-meaning members to establish a financial support plan for the affected doctors, who have now been unpaid for three months, pushing them to the brink emotionally and economically.

In his final remarks, he called for unity: “All hands must be on deck to preserve the Hippocratic brotherhood we swore to uphold. A brother should not snuff the life out of another. This is not the future we envisaged. We must fight to leave a better one for the next generation.”

As the clock ticks toward June 30, the healthcare sector in the FCT braces for what may become one of the most consequential strikes in recent years—one born not just from policy failure, but from a cry for justice, equity, and professional dignity.

The NMA is also using this opportunity to call on the Minister of Health, Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, to urgently intervene before the situation escalates further. At a time when the country is grappling with critical challenges in the healthcare sector—and the President is actively working to reverse the “japa” trend and restore stability through the Renewed Hope Agenda—it would be deeply unfortunate for such avoidable crises to undermine those efforts. Supporting doctors who have chosen to remain in Nigeria is essential to rebuilding trust and encouraging others, both at home and abroad, to return and contribute to the nation’s healthcare revival.

Continue Reading

news

BREAKING: Tinubu honours Abiola, Kudirat, Soyinka, Onanuga others in State of the Nation address

Published

on

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on more than 80 Nigerians—both living and deceased—during his inaugural State of the Nation address in honour of this year’s Democracy Day.

The President, who reeled the names out with other messages while addressing a joint session of the National Assembly to mark 26 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria on Thursday, also announced the granting of full pardon to the heroes of the Ogoni Struggle, identified as the Ogoni nine.

The president used the solemn occasion to commemorate key figures in the June 12 pro-democracy movement, notably Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, his late wife Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, and environmental rights activist Ken Saro-Wiwa.

Alhaja Kudirat Abiola was posthumously awarded the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) for her role in resisting military rule, a struggle that ultimately led to her assassination. Tinubu described her as the “heroine of the June 12 struggle.”

Also honoured was the late Major General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, who received the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), the highest national honour typically reserved for heads of state.

He was recognised for mobilising political resistance to military rule and advancing democratic reforms.

Other posthumous recipients included key figures in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement: Professor Humphrey Nwosu (CON), who chaired the National Electoral Commission during the 1993 elections; Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (CON); Pa Alfred Rewane (CFR); Bagauda Kaltho (OON); Chima Ubani (OON); Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti (CON); Chief Alao Aka-Bashorun (CON); and Chief Frank Kokori (CON), among others.

The list extended to civil rights advocates, journalists, politicians, and unionists who lost their lives in the pursuit of justice and democracy.

Honourees included Emma Ezeazu, Bamidele Aturu, Fredrick Fasehun, Professor Festus Iyayi, Dr. John Yima Sen, Alhaja Gambo Sawaba, Dr. Edwin Madunagu, Dr. Alex Ibru, Chief Bola Ige, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Senator Ayo Fasanmi, Senator Polycarp Nwite, and Dr. Nurudeen Olowopopo.

In a move described as symbolic of national reconciliation, Tinubu posthumously recognised Ken Saro-Wiwa and his fellow environmental activists known as the Ogoni Nine, who were executed in 1995 under the regime of General Sani Abacha.

Saro-Wiwa was awarded the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), while Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine were each awarded the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).

The President further announced that he would invoke his constitutional powers to grant a full state pardon to the Ogoni Nine and others, whose names will be released following consultations with the National Council of State.

Living icons of democratic activism and intellectual freedom were also celebrated. Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka was awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), while renowned journalism scholar Professor Olatunji Dare received the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

Related NewsProminent journalists and media pioneers were similarly honoured: Kunle Ajibade (OON), Nosa Igiebor (OON), Dapo Olorunyomi (OON), Bayo Onanuga (CON), Ayo Obe (OON), Dare Babarinsa (CON), and Seye Kehinde (OON).

Among the human rights lawyers and activists honoured were Femi Falana, SAN (CON), Barrister Felix Morka (CON), Barrister Ledum Mitee (CON), and Professor Shafideen Amuwo (CON).

Other notable recipients included Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (CON), Senator Shehu Sani (CON), Governor Uba Sani (CON), Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi (CON), Honourable Labaran Maku (OON), Dr. Tunji Alausa (CON), Mr. Nick Dazang (OON), Hon. Abdul Oroh (OON), Barrister Luke Aghanenu (OON), Odia Ofeimun (CON), Hon. Olawale Osun (CON), Dr. Amos Akingba (CON), and Professor Segun Gbadegesin (CON).

Further commendations went to Professor Julius Ihonvbere, Professor Bayo Williams, Senator Abu Ibrahim, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Dr. Kayode Shonoiki, and Senator Ameh Ebute, who were also recognised with honours ranging from Commander to Grand Commander of the Federal Republic.

Veteran journalist and Vanguard Newspapers founder Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu was honoured with a Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), a day before his 90th birthday.

President Tinubu also formally decorated the current presiding officers of the National Assembly, who had previously received national honours:

Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio (GCON)

Speaker of the House of RepresentativesTajudeen Abbas (GCON)

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (CFR)

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu (CFR)

“The honours were not just symbolic, but a national acknowledgment of those who defended truth, fought repression, and expanded Nigeria’s democratic space”, Tinubu said.

He called on Nigerians, particularly political leaders, to uphold the values of the June 12 movement in their actions and policies.

“We must rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12: freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed”, he said.

President Tinubu concluded his address with a call for national reflection and progress, urging the country to move beyond symbolic recognition and build a future anchored on the sacrifices of past heroes.

 

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2025 Newsthumb Magazine | All rights reserved