Aliko Dangote Becomes First African to Hit $30 Billion Net Worth. Nigerian billionaire and industrial magnate Aliko Dangote has officially become the first African to reach a net worth of $30 billion, according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The milestone follows a $430 million surge in his portfolio, capping a year of remarkable growth that added over $2.16 billion to his fortune. The rise cements his long-standing position as Africa’s richest person and underscores the strength of his vast industrial empire spanning cement, sugar, flour, and oil refining. “This isn’t just a personal win for Dangote it’s a defining moment for African industry,” said Ngozi Okonjo, an analyst at Afrinvest. “He’s proving that value-added manufacturing can rival resource extraction as a source of African wealth.”

PENGASSAN Orders Immediate Gas Supply Shutdown to Dangote Refinery. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has ordered an immediate suspension of gas supply to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. The latest development has escalated the growing labour dispute with the company. In a letter dated September 26 and signed by the union’s General Secretary, Comrade Lumumba Ighotemu Okugbawa, PENGASSAN directed all its members, especially those in the Nigerian Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC) branch, to halt gas supply to the multibillion-dollar refinery without delay. The directive also includes shutting crude oil supply valves and suspending loading operations for vessels destined for the facility. The union accused the refinery’s management of unlawfully disengaging unionised workers and launching a “mission of misinformation and propaganda” instead of engaging in genuine dialogue with organised labour. “This action is a necessary response to defend the constitutional rights of workers to freely associate and unionise,” the letter stated. “Injury to one! Injury to all!” The confrontation follows reports that the company recently laid off more than 800 Nigerian workers — a decision PENGASSAN described as “anti-labour, insensitive, and unacceptable.” The union vowed to resist the move through nationwide solidarity actions unless the decision is reversed. The Dangote Refinery, located in the Lekki Free Zone, Lagos, is Africa’s largest petroleum refining facility and Nigeria’s biggest domestic source of refined products. Since commencing partial operations, it has been central to the country’s efforts to reduce fuel imports and stabilise local supply.

Over N2trn Lost to Dubious Subsidy Claims Under Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s Administration — Businessman Femi Otedola Billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, has alleged that more than ₦2 trillion was siphoned through questionable petrol subsidy claims during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. In a statement on Monday, Otedola backed the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in its ongoing dispute with the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN). DAPPMAN had accused the refinery of destabilizing the market with its fuel price cuts, but Dangote countered, claiming the group demanded an annual subsidy of ₦1.5 trillion to enable members match its depot prices. Otedola, however, maintained that the subsidy regime was deliberately structured to benefit depot owners, making DAPPMAN members the biggest beneficiaries. “I warned President Jonathan at the time that he was being misled. The system encouraged rent-seeking and corruption. Over ₦2 trillion was siphoned through dubious claims tied to depot licences,” he said. He further dismissed the notion that depots significantly create jobs, noting that a typical facility employs only a handful of people, unlike filling stations that hire dozens. Otedola urged DAPPMAN members to shift their focus to retail operations rather than holding on to depots designed for an import-driven fuel economy, which, according to him, has become redundant with Nigeria now refining locally. He likened the development to the transformation of Nigeria’s cement industry, where reliance on import terminals gave way to domestic production.

U4GM - Helldivers 2 2025 Roadmap Overview Helldivers 2 has steadily grown into one of the most engaging cooperative shooters of recent years, and the 2025 roadmap promises an exciting lineup of updates and expansions that fans won’t want to miss. As someone who has spent countless hours coordinating drops, perfecting loadouts, and exploring the depths of hostile planets, I’ve been following the upcoming changes closely—and there’s plenty to discuss. New Missions and Planetary Expansions One of the highlights of the 2025 roadmap is the expansion of mission types and new planetary environments. Players can expect more diverse biomes, from icy tundras to volcanic wastelands, each presenting unique tactical challenges. These updates are designed to keep seasoned Helldivers on their toes, requiring adaptive strategies and clever teamwork to succeed. Weapon and Gear Enhancements The roadmap also includes a slew of weapon and armor improvements. Expect adjustments to weapon balance, new equipment variants, and gear that caters to both aggressive and defensive playstyles. For players looking to stay ahead, the upcoming changes will make certain previously underused setups suddenly viable, giving everyone a reason to experiment. Super Credits System Updates For those invested in the progression system, Helldivers 2 will be refining its Super Credits economy. Whether you’re looking to grind efficiently or just acquire new cosmetics, knowing how to navigate the Helldivers 2 super credit shop will be key. Players can also choose to buy helldivers 2 super credits through trusted providers like U4GM to fast-track access to new gear and unlockables without breaking the game’s balance. This provides a flexible approach for both casual and hardcore players. Community and Quality-of-Life Improvements Beyond content updates, 2025 will focus heavily on community-driven improvements. Expect enhanced matchmaking, refined squad management tools, and quality-of-life updates aimed at reducing downtime between missions. The developers are clearly paying attention to player feedback, ensuring the cooperative experience remains smooth and enjoyable. Looking Ahead Overall, the Helldivers 2 2025 roadmap is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious yet. With a combination of new environments, gear expansions, and economic refinements, the game continues to evolve in ways that cater to both newcomers and veteran Helldivers alike. If you’re looking to maximize your experience, keeping an eye on the Helldivers 2 super credit shop and considering options to buy helldivers 2 super credits from U4GM could give you a useful edge as the year progresses.

Petrol Subsidy Removal Rescued Nigeria From Bankruptcy – Emir of Kano Muhammad Sanusi. Muhammad Sanusi II, Emir of Kano and former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, says scrapping petrol subsidy saved Nigeria from imminent bankruptcy. Speaking at the second edition of the Kano International Poetry Festival on Saturday, Sanusi described the subsidy system as wasteful and unsustainable, noting that it drained government finances through oil price fluctuations, exchange rate pressures, transport costs, and refining expenses. “Subsidy meant if petrol was N100, Nigerians paid N70 and government covered N30,” he explained. “But government went further, fixing petrol at N65 per litre regardless of global oil prices. Who paid the difference? Government. And that was always going to bankrupt Nigeria.” He faulted past governments for neglecting local refineries while spending billions on subsidies that enriched foreign refineries and cost Nigerians jobs. According to him, those funds should have been invested in production rather than consumption. The emir recalled warning as CBN governor in 2012 that the policy was like “a man running towards a ditch.” He said Nigeria eventually began borrowing to pay subsidies and later to service debts, making the arrangement unsustainable. Sanusi stressed that subsidy removal should be seen not just as an economic reform but also as a chance to rebuild a more resilient and self-reliant nation.

The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has issued a fresh prophecy warning Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, of looming challenges that could trigger public backlash against his company. Speaking during a prophetic session in Lagos, Ayodele revealed that another tragic accident involving Dangote’s operations was imminent and could lead to loss of lives, sparking widespread revolt. He cautioned that if not properly managed, the development could damage the reputation of the Dangote Group. “Another tragic accident is coming. That will kill several,” Ayodele warned. “And they will now begin to fight Dangote by people who just revolt against him. Dangote, I don’t know. God has never told me that you are using this for this one. If he told me, I will say it to you. But Dangote must be careful, careful, careful, careful.” According to the cleric, the incident would not only cause casualties but also incite anger against Dangote, with critics using it as an opportunity to discredit him and his business empire. “If it happens again, people will revolt seriously. And it can dent the image of the company,” Ayodele added. The Dangote Group, which spans cement, sugar, salt, and recently petroleum refining, has occasionally faced operational challenges, including industrial accidents and safety controversies. Ayodele’s prophecy has sparked conversations about the safety standards of large industrial corporations and the potential impact of a major mishap on public perception. Industry watchers note that a large-scale accident could have ripple effects, given the group’s dominance in key sectors of Nigeria’s economy. With Dangote Cement leading in construction and the newly launched Dangote Refinery set to play a critical role in Nigeria’s energy transition, any disruption could attract national and even international scrutiny. For many Nigerians, Dangote represents both economic pride and monopoly concerns. While his businesses employ thousands and contribute significantly to GDP, critics have accused the group of stifling competition and benefiting disproportionately from government policies. Ayodele, however, insisted that his prophecy was not a personal attack but a divine caution. “I’m not against Dangote. I’m only saying what God has revealed. He must be careful because this is a serious warning. If not handled, it will bring revolt and damage his image,” he said.

Petrol Prices Drop Below Dangote’s as Importers Slash Rates. Fuel importers have slashed petrol prices below those of Dangote Refinery, intensifying market competition and drawing fresh debate over the future of fuel importation in Nigeria. Filling stations in Lagos and Ogun are now selling petrol for as low as ₦847 per litre, compared to ₦865–₦875 at outlets affiliated with Dangote, such as MRS and Heyden. Some depots have dropped their prices to ₦815, while Dangote Refinery’s ex-depot price stands at ₦820. This development comes as Dangote Group President, Aliko Dangote, urged the Federal Government to ban fuel imports to protect local refiners. He accused importers of flooding Nigeria with subsidised or low-quality fuel, particularly products sourced from Russia, which he described as “t+xic” and banned in Europe. “At these prices, local refiners cannot survive,” he said, warning that d¥mping thr+atens investments and undermines domestic production.However, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) disagrees. Its spokesperson, Chinedu Ukadike, defended the current competitive pricing, describing it as a positive result of market liberalisation. “This is why we support deregulation. It encourages fair pricing. Banning imports would h¥rt consumers,” he said. He added that regulatory agencies are in place to prevent the importation of substandard fuel and emphasized that open competition will drive efficiency and affordability. While Dangote calls for protectionist measures under the Nigeria First policy, marketers argue that true market freedom ensures lower prices and stability. The cl+sh highlights ongoing tensions in Nigeria’s fuel market, as the country navigates between encouraging local refining and maintaining a liberalised economy.

Brief: Dangote Refinery Drops ₦100bn Lawsuit Against NNPCL, Others Dangote Petroleum Refinery has withdrawn its ₦100 billion lawsuit against the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), NNPC Limited, and five other oil firms. The case, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, challenged the issuance of fuel import licenses, which Dangote claimed violated the Petroleum Industry Act and undermined local refining. The refinery had sought damages and a declaration that NMDPRA failed to protect domestic producers. However, a formal notice of discontinuance was submitted, with no stated reason or indication of an out-of-court settlement. The defendants, including Matrix, AYM Shafa, and A.A. Rano, had argued the case was an attempt by Dangote to monopolise the market. NMDPRA maintained it acted lawfully to meet national fuel demand.#DangoteRefinery #NNPCL #NMDPRA #OilAndGas #PetroleumIndustryAct #FuelImportation

Lagos To Begin N10,000 E-Call-Up Fee For Trucks From August 1. The Lagos State Government and major transport unions have agreed that trucks using the Lekki-Epe corridor will pay a ₦10,000 electronic call-up fee starting from August 1, 2025. The agreement was reached during a meeting at Dangote Oil Refining Ltd., which was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Transportation, Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN). The gathering was convened by the Lagos State Government and supported by Dangote Industries Ltd. As part of the preparations for the new system, truck operators are required to register and begin onboarding their vehicles before the enforcement date. The Lagos Ministry of Transportation is expected to launch awareness campaigns to educate truck drivers and union members on the process. The new arrangement also mandates that only trucks with approved business within the Lekki Free Zone will be allowed access, while others must stay out of the area. Approved truck parks along the corridor—equipped with CCTV, toilets, and driver lodges—will serve as holding bays. The ₦10,000 fee will be used to cover logistics, technology, and enforcement. According to the authorities, no part of the money will go to the state government’s treasury. This move is aimed at preventing road congestion and safety issues similar to what happened in Apapa. The Lekki Residents Association had earlier raised concerns about increasing road accidents involving articulated trucks. The unions involved have pledged to support the process and ensure their members comply with the new rules to avoid penalties.

PETROAN Warns: Dangote's Distribution Strategy Could Harm the Industry “We Are Being Sidelined Already” - PETROAN As Dangote Refinery gets ready to expand its fuel distribution across the nation, the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has added its voice to the increasing number of industry stakeholders cautioning about the risks associated with a market dominated by a single player. Speaking on behalf of independent station owners nationwide, PETROAN President Billy Gillis-Harry cautioned that numerous members are already experiencing pressure. He said, “We’re not against Dangote’s success. But no single company should control refining, supply, distribution, and retail all at once. “It’s a monopoly in the making, and it puts thousands of independent operators at risk.” PETROAN cautions that more than 10,000 authorized retail outlets rely on accessing fuel from the open market. This system risks falling apart if Dangote assumes complete control as the exclusive gatekeeper. PETROAN and other stakeholders are now calling for: - Open access to loading depots and marine terminals. - Enforcement of anti-monopoly laws under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) - Fair pricing structures that allow independent marketers to compete - Support for third-party logistics, not just refinery-owned transport fleets. They claim that these measures will safeguard the diversity of Nigeria's fuel supply and prevent replacing a flawed subsidy system with a monopoly controlled by the private sector. “This isn’t about envy, It’s about making sure the downstream sector remains inclusive, competitive, and sustainable for everyone, not just the biggest,” Gillis-Harry added. ~Imran Muhammad

See what is posted on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu X handle. “ Two years ago, you entrusted me with the sacred responsibility to lead our nation at a time of historic challenges. Together, we faced those headwinds with courage and determination. The economic and general situation I inherited required that we redirect the country’s affairs with a bold and new vision. I immediately implemented two necessary policies—to stop our country from drifting into the precipice. We removed decades-long fuel subsidies and dismantled the corruption-ridden multiple exchange rate windows. These were no longer sustainable and had become a chokehold on our nation’s neck, strangling our future. Let me be clear: the only alternative to the reforms we initiated was a fiscal crisis—runaway inflation, external debt default, crippling fuel shortages, a plunging Naira, and an economy in free-fall. Despite the bump in the cost of living, we have made undeniable progress. Inflation has begun to ease. Rice prices and other staples are declining. Our oil and gas sector is recovering—rig counts are up by over 400%, and over $8 billion in new investments have been committed. We have stabilised our economy. We’re better positioned for growth and prepared to withstand global shocks. Gross proceeds per barrel are aligned with forecasts. Fiscal deficit narrowed from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024. We recorded over N6 trillion in revenue in Q1 of this year. We have discontinued Ways & Means financing. The NNPC, no longer burdened by unsustainable fuel subsidies, is now a net contributor to the Federation Account. We are achieving fuel supply security through local refining. Our debt service-to-revenue ratio dropped from nearly 100% in 2022 to under 40% by 2024. We paid off IMF obligations. Our net external reserves grew from $4 billion in 2023 to over $23 billion by the end of 2024. Under our bold tax reform agenda, our tax-to-GDP ratio rose from 10% to over 13.5% in just one year. Food, education, and healthcare now attract 0% VAT. Rent, public transport, and renewables are fully exempted. We’re eliminating multiple taxation and protecting disposable incomes—especially for low-income households and small businesses. This is not just about revenue. It is about inclusive economic growth. This is about economic justice. This is the movement we promised—a government of action powered by the energy and innovation of young Nigerians. From Innovate Naija and NASENI’s digital reboot, to electric vehicle assembly and drone engineering, we are restoring dignity to work and opening a future of possibilities. I told security chiefs: up your game and collaborate to end this plague of evil men. Every Nigerian deserves to live without fear. We shall remain vigilant. We are preparing to welcome the world to Nigeria for the Motherland Festival—a landmark gathering that will spotlight our rich heritage, vibrant creative industries, and the beauty of our people. It will showcase Nigeria’s promise—inviting the world to rediscover our nation. Our journey is not over, but our direction is clear. So is our resolve. By the Grace of God, the worst is behind us. The real impact of our governance is beginning to take hold. The future is bright—and together, we will build a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria. Bet on Nigeria. ~ PBAT #HopeRenewed #NigeriaRising #BetOnNigeria

🎯 No Civilians, Just Criminals: NAF Takes Out 49 Illegal Refineries in Niger Delta — According to The Sun In a powerful show of force and precision, the 115 Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), under the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), has taken down 49 illegal refineries, cooking tanks, and over 20 massive crude oil reservoirs used by oil thieves across the Niger Delta in the past five months. Speaking during a press briefing in Port Harcourt, Group Captain Abdulafeez Opaleye stated that the air strikes are strictly targeted at criminal operations, not civilians. “Our strikes are designed to be as accurate as possible. So far, there have been no civilian casualties, and we remain extremely cautious in that regard,” he emphasized. According to The Sun, the Air Force’s precision strikes, carried out using attack helicopters, also destroyed 16 large boats used for crude oil theft and smuggling. The operations involved 172 sorties and logged over 268 hours of flight time, consuming 87,938 liters of Jet A1 fuel. A major highlight was the March 27 air raid on Egbema Ohaji, which dismantled a critical illegal refining hub. Opaleye credited the success to coordinated Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), including UAVs and aircraft from the NAF Headquarters. The Commander further detailed how oil thieves have adapted by relocating operations up to 15 kilometers into forested mangroves—yet the Air Force has remained one step ahead, detecting and striking these remote sites with surgical precision. Beyond air missions, the 115 SOG has deployed ground troops for joint internal security operations, strengthening law enforcement in volatile regions. Acknowledging the strategic impact, Opaleye linked the rise in Nigeria’s oil production—from 1.2 million to 1.85 million barrels per day—to these air operations, especially in areas inaccessible to ground forces. Backed by top-tier air assets like EC-135, T-129 ATAK, and Mi-35 gunships, the unit remains a formidable aerial force known as the “home of combat helicopters.” Commendations also poured in from Navy Commander Goddy Egbunu and Defence Media Operations, praising the team’s leadership and impact on national security. ⸻ #NAFOperations #CrudeOilTheft #DeltaSafe #NigerianAirForce #OilRefineryBust #NAFAirStrikes