Nigeria Risks Satellite Shutdown As China Issues Ultimatum Over $11.44m Unpaid Debt
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Nigeria Risks Satellite Shutdown as China Issues Ultimatum Over $11.44m Unpaid Debt

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NigComSat-1R satellite and communication infrastructure linked to Nigeria’s $11.44 million debt dispute with China

China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC) has issued a 30-day ultimatum to Nigeria over an unpaid debt of $11.44 million linked to the country’s NigComSat-1R satellite....Continue Reading>>

In a letter addressed to the Managing Director of the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NigComSat) and copied to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chinese company warned that it may suspend services supporting the satellite if the debt is not settled.

According to CGWIC’s Africa Marketing Director, Liu Lan, the outstanding payment has accumulated since 2019 and stood at $11,442,335.89 as of December 31, 2025.

The company said it has continued to provide Telemetry, Tracking and Command (TT&C) services for the satellite from its facility in Kashi, China, for seven years without payment. However, it stated that internal audit reviews and pressure from subcontractors now make it difficult to continue without settlement.

CGWIC warned that failure to pay the outstanding amount within the 30-day period could lead to the shutdown of all active transponders, which would affect the satellite’s performance.

The firm also advised NigComSat to notify customers about the possibility of service disruptions if the issue is not resolved.

The situation comes as the NigComSat-1R satellite approaches the end of its operational lifespan, with decommissioning expected by late 2026. The satellite was launched in 2011.

In 2019, CGWIC reportedly helped stabilise the satellite through a management arrangement following operational challenges. The current dispute relates to obligations under that agreement.

NigComSat’s Head of Corporate Communications, Stephen Kwande, confirmed that the agency has received the letter. He said the organisation is reviewing the situation and will provide an official response soon.

The development has raised concerns about the potential impact on telecommunications, broadcasting, and other services that rely on satellite infrastructure. ...Continue Reading>>

Icon Josh is a news writer and digital media contributor at Ability Digitalz, where he covers breaking news, politics, entertainment, technology, and trending stories from Nigeria and around the world. With a strong passion for journalism and storytelling, Icon Josh focuses on delivering accurate, timely, and engaging reports that keep readers informed about important developments and current events. His work aims to present facts clearly while providing context that helps audiences understand the issues shaping society. At Ability Digitalz, Icon Josh contributes to the platform’s mission of providing reliable news coverage, insightful analysis, and stories that matter to readers both locally and globally.

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Nigerians Don’t Want 24-Hour Power Supply — Deji Adeyanju

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Deji Adeyanju

Nigerian activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has said that many Nigerians are not necessarily demanding round-the-clock electricity, but rather consistent power during essential periods of the day....Continue Reading>>

Speaking on The Honest Bunch podcast, Adeyanju argued that citizens are primarily concerned with having electricity when it matters most, especially in the mornings and evenings. According to him, the expectations of Nigerians from government remain modest and achievable.

He maintained that meeting these needs should not be seen as a difficult task, describing Nigerians as “easy to please” when it comes to basic services.

“Nigerians are not even asking for 24-hour electricity. Can they afford it?” he said. “What they want is simple to return home around 8pm and have power so they can sleep comfortably, and also have light by 7am to prepare for the day. Beyond that, electricity can be directed to industrial areas. Nigerians are not asking for too much.”

In a related comment during the same programme, Adeyanju described President Bola Tinubu as a formidable political figure who would be difficult to unseat, even under a credible electoral process.

Despite being a known critic, he acknowledged Tinubu’s strong political influence and strategic expertise, noting that the president has developed a reputation for winning elections and maintaining control.

“Jagaban knows how to win, even in a free and fair election,” Adeyanju stated.

He further highlighted the president’s extensive political network, claiming that a significant number of state governors and key political figures align with him, reinforcing his dominance.

According to Adeyanju, Tinubu’s ability to build and sustain alliances has made the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) a powerful force. He added that, at present, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) appears to be the only party with the potential to mount a meaningful challenge to the APC’s hold on power.

Adeyanju concluded that Tinubu’s political machinery remains unmatched in Nigeria’s current landscape….Read more ...Continue Reading>>

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Masqueraders, Youths Attack RCCG Church In Delta, Injure Six Worshippers and Pastor

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Tension erupted in Edjeba community in Warri, Delta State, on Sunday after a group of traditional masqueraders and accompanying youths allegedly attacked a branch of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), leaving six worshippers injured, including the pastor....Continue Reading>>

The incident reportedly occurred around 10 a.m. on April 19, 2026, shortly after the conclusion of Sunday service at the RCCG Edjeba Shell Gate branch.

According to eyewitness accounts, the church’s presiding pastor, identified as Barrister Albert, was preparing to leave the premises with his family when a procession of masqueraders passed in front of the church.

A witness said the situation escalated after an alleged attempt by one of the masqueraders to assault female members of the congregation.

“The pastor tried to intervene and stop the masquerader from touching the girls. That was when the situation turned violent,” the witness said.

The source added that the confrontation quickly escalated into an attack on the pastor and other church members who attempted to intervene.

During the incident, six worshippers sustained injuries of varying severity, with three reportedly in critical condition and receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

The attackers were also said to have damaged parts of the church property during the unrest.

Residents and church leaders in Warri have called on the Delta State Government and security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, to investigate the incident and ensure those responsible are identified and prosecuted.

Community members also noted that Edjeba has experienced recent cases of violence, including previous allegations of assaults linked to masquerader groups and a separate reported attack on a young man in the area. ...Continue Reading>>

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Jigawa to Mark 1906 Anti-Colonial Resistance with Two-Day Commemoration in Hadejia

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Residents of Hadejia in Jigawa State are preparing to commemorate the historic 1906 resistance against colonial rule with a two-day event scheduled for April 24 and 25 in Hadejia town....Continue Reading>>

The announcement was made by the Chairman of the Organising Committee and Galadiman Hadejia, Alhaji Usman Abdul’aziz, during a press briefing.

He said the commemoration is intended to preserve cultural heritage, promote courage, and reinforce the historical identity of the Hadejia people.

According to him, the event recalls a major confrontation in 1906 during colonial rule, which reportedly claimed the lives of over 800 Hadejia warriors, including the then Emir, Alhaji Muhammad Mai Shahada. He also noted that British forces suffered casualties, including their commanding officer.

Alhaji Abdul’aziz outlined activities planned for the programme, which include guided visits to historical sites connected to the event.

He also confirmed that a book documenting the historical incident will be officially unveiled during the commemoration. The publication was authored by the late Professor Haruna Wakili alongside other historians.

The event is expected to draw historians, traditional leaders, and members of the community as part of efforts to preserve the memory of the 1906 resistance. ...Continue Reading>>

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