Columns
Ahmadu Musa Kida: A giant step from the Basketball Association to NNPCL

Ahmadu Musa Kida: A giant step from the Basketball Association to NNPCL
By: Dr. James Bwala
The recent appointment of Ahmadu Musa Kida as the non-executive chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) signifies a pivotal shift in leadership within Nigeria’s oil sector. This transition, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s significant restructuring of NNPCL’s board, underscores the necessity for diversified expertise in tackling complex industry challenges. Kida’s previous role as president of the Nigeria Basketball Federation may seem disconnected from oil and gas; however, his extensive background in this sector equips him with unique insights critical for navigating NNPCL’s ambitious goals.
Kida’s career trajectory is primarily rooted in the oil and gas industry rather than basketball. His experience includes leadership positions at respected companies such as TotalEnergies and Pan Ocean Oil Corporation. This foundation not only demonstrates his capability but also reinforces the importance of appointing leaders who possess relevant expertise to drive substantial changes aimed at increasing Nigeria’s refining capacity to 500,000 barrels per day by 2030.
Ahmadu Musa Kida’s appointment reflects a strategic move towards fostering innovation and attracting investment in Nigeria’s oil sector. By leveraging his vast experience, Kida is poised to lead NNPCL through transformative initiatives that promise economic growth and sustainability. Therefore, it is imperative that stakeholders support this new direction under Kida’s leadership for a prosperous future in Nigeria’s energy landscape.
With a clear mandate to enhance operational efficiency and drive strategic growth, Kida’s leadership is expected to facilitate the critical transformation required for Nigeria’s energy sector to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market. His unique blend of industry knowledge and strategic acumen is expected to not only drive operational excellence but also position NNPCL as a leading force in the global energy landscape. This alignment of leadership with industry-specific expertise is essential, especially as the global energy sector undergoes rapid changes driven by technological advancements and shifting economic priorities.
Musa Kida has a hand of Gold that turns anything around him to . With his background in both strategic leadership and sector-specific expertise, Kida is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the global energy market while fostering a culture of innovation within NNPCL. Kida’s strategic vision and ability to harness emerging technologies will be crucial in steering NNPCL towards achieving these ambitious goals while maintaining a competitive edge.
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Kida’s leadership is anticipated to leverage his extensive network within the global energy sector to forge strategic partnerships and attract significant foreign investment, crucial for achieving NNPCL’s ambitious targets. Kida’s appointment is a strategic move by President Bola Tinubu, reflecting a broader vision to integrate diverse leadership experiences and drive NNPCL towards its ambitious targets of increasing refining capacity and securing substantial investments.
Kida’s unique blend of sports management and corporate governance experience is expected to bring a fresh perspective to NNPCL’s strategic initiatives. This approach aligns with the government’s broader economic strategy to diversify leadership and harness cross-sector expertise, ultimately positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global energy market. Kida’s appointment is not just a testament to his versatile career but also reflects a strategic move to integrate diverse expertise into the energy sector, potentially driving innovative solutions and fostering partnerships that could redefine Nigeria’s role in the global market.
His leadership in both sectors exemplifies a unique blend of strategic vision and operational expertise, which is expected to bring about transformative changes in the NNPCL’s approach to meeting its ambitious goals. His ability to navigate complex organizational structures and drive impactful change is expected to be instrumental in reshaping NNPCL’s operational strategies.
Kida’s prior successes in navigating the complexities of sports administration, combined with his extensive experience in the oil and gas industry, provide him with a unique toolkit to address the multifaceted challenges facing NNPCL today. Kida’s adeptness at fostering collaboration and innovation is anticipated to be a driving force in aligning NNPCL’s objectives with global sustainability trends. Kida’s strategic acumen and industry insights are anticipated to drive NNPCL towards achieving its ambitious target of increasing oil refining capacity and attracting substantial investment. His multifaceted expertise positions him uniquely to lead NNPCL in navigating the complexities of the global energy landscape, ensuring that Nigeria not only meets but exceeds its strategic objectives.
With his appointment as Non-Executive Chairman, Kida is poised to leverage his extensive industry knowledge and leadership experience to spearhead strategic initiatives that could potentially elevate NNPCL’s status in the international energy arena. Kida’s leadership is expected to drive a strategic review of NNPCL’s assets, aiming to maximize value and attract further investment. Kida’s appointment comes at a critical juncture, as the NNPCL aims to implement robust strategies to enhance its competitiveness in the global market.
Kida’s leadership is expected to foster a culture of transparency and accountability within NNPCL, crucial for building investor confidence and ensuring sustainable growth. Kida’s ability to integrate his diverse experiences from both the sports and energy sectors is likely to foster innovative approaches that could redefine NNPCL’s operational strategies in a rapidly evolving industry. Kida’s transformative leadership is expected to bridge the gap between traditional energy practices and modern sustainability imperatives, fostering a forward-thinking approach that aligns with Nigeria’s broader economic goals.
The integration of Kida’s multifaceted expertise is anticipated to catalyze a paradigm shift in NNPCL’s operations, aligning them more closely with global standards and sustainability goals. Kida’s strategic vision and collaborative leadership style are anticipated to create synergies across various departments within NNPCL, driving efficiency and innovation while aligning with the company’s long-term objectives. His extensive background in managing complex organizations and driving strategic initiatives is expected to be instrumental in navigating the challenges facing NNPCL, particularly in optimizing asset utilization and securing investments to achieve the ambitious $60 billion target by 2030.
*James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Ahmadu Musa Kida: A giant step from the Basketball Association to NNPCL
Columns
Mangun Gruesome Killings: What is the Rational Behind this Act?

Mangun Gruesome Killings: What is the Rational Behind this Act?
By: Balami Lazarus
When I heard of the killings of the innocent travelers that happened at Manjul in the Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, who are my brothers and sisters? I sat down and began to think, trying to reason out why and what the rationale is behind these killings. My thought raised so many questions regarding this brutal murder, ruling out some motives. But political motive kept whispering, telling me the rationale is politically motivated considering the quantum of killings on the Plateau in places like Bokkos, Bassa, and Mangu, which has become a vicious cycle in these areas. And in addition, there were utterances from some politicians complicating issues.
I hereby condole with the families of my brothers and sisters from Zaria-Basawa, Samaru, Hayin Dogo (Kallo Kura), and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) community main campus Samaru who lost their lives in the Mangun brutal killings of 20th June, 2025, on their way to Qua-anpan for a wedding. May their souls rest in peace.
The killings of these innocent Nigerians were carried out with no reason or cause, neither threat nor provocation of any kind, much lessreligion or ethnicity, as some irrational persons want us to believe. I stand and write with the power of the pen to say in print that the sentiments aforementioned are far and kept away from such unfortunate incidents, which have been peddled around by some enemies of peace and progress on the Plateau.
It is on record that so many Nigerians have condemned in totality the killings of these innocent travelers. While the government and the good people of Plateau State have long condemned this act in strong terms. Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s administration has properly condoled and sympathized with the government and people of Kaduna State, including the management and staff of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria. In his effort as the executive governor, Mutfwang is working tirelessly to see that justice takes its course on those involved in this crime. Besides, his administration is making an effort to compensate the affected families, according to sources.
It might surprise some readers why I emotionally addressed those murdered as my brothers and sisters from Zaria-Basawa, Hayin Dogo (Kallo Kura), Samaru, and ABU main campus, which are integral parts of the Sabon Gari Local Government Area of Kaduna State. I am an indigene of Zaria, having been born and bred outside the ganuwa (city walls) of the ancient Zaria city in Gaskiya, Kongo, ABU main campus, and Samaru, all addressed as Zaria, where I had my childhood spree. Therefore, I will not be queried by identifying with the deceased and their families as my own people, for we are linked one way or the other.
Let me hereinafter tell you why I suspect political motive was behind these killings of the travelers in Mangun-Mangu. I partly grew up on the Plateau, shuttling between Jos and Sharam in Kanke Local Government Area as a student and still living in Jos. Moreover, I have some good understanding of the people, their sociopolitical and economic happenings, and their dynamics on the one hand. And I once led a political group on the other. The utterances of some politicians and their cohorts/allies are questionable because they are not happy with the people-oriented projects of the Caleb Mutfwang administration. And that they were accused of sponsoring the killings going on in the state. The case of Mangun, 20th June, 2025, holds water going by the alleged accusations and the kind of politics playing out in Plateau State.
Findings have revealed that there were interventions by some youth leaders, elders, and vigilantes who risked their lives trying to stop this group of rascals from carrying out the killings and burning of the bus belonging to ABU conveying the victims for a wedding at Qua-anpan. In fact, some were burnt—men, women, and children. Others were rescued with various degrees of injuries. Reports put the total dead at 8 persons. While 12 were injured, some survived. The good news making rounds is the arrest of over 20 suspects believed to be behind these gruesome killings of the Zaria travelers.
Thus, this incident has no doubt painted Plateau State in a bad light as one of the major flashpoint states where killers of innocent travelers reside. Well, I will not blame them because this is not the first. However, this particular one is painfully shrouded in a bitter political atmosphere between some gladiators who are not at peace with the positive developments in the state. Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang as the change driver.
Yes, there are insecurity challenges on the Plateau, where apprehension and naked suspicion are everywhere, prompting the citizens to be extremely cautious and always on alert. However, if young men can channel their collective energies as a force towards the insecurity bedeviling the state instead of engaging in political thuggery, drugs, and criminality, there will be a change in their lives and the entire system.
Balami, a publisher/columnist. 08036779290
Mangun Gruesome Killings: What is the Rational Behind this Act?
Columns
Osama, For Good Governance and Social Justice Through the Radio

Osama, For Good Governance and Social Justice Through the Radio
By: Balami Lazarus
Osama. Does it ring a bell? Yes, it does on the Plateau. The Osama I am writing about is that individual who is known for his good works for humanity on the radio and outside the studio. Osama is a gentleman but is outspoken and has a mind of his own.
My Osama in this context is a personality, a brand, and a trademark. Osama is a broadcaster, radio presenter, and popular comedian on stage and in the entertainment industry in Jos-Plateau and beyond. Since the writing is sailing, I will later reveal the identity of who this young man is and why he is so passionate about good governance.
The fights for human rights, social justice, and good governance have been the cries and topic of discourse of so many Nigerians, especially good governance. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and human rights activists are the leaders in these struggles, whereby their roles cannot be overemphasized. The quantum of spoken words, public lectures/enlightenment programs, workshops, seminars, etc., has not brought many changes in our systems because there was little or no action by you and me as Nigerians.
I remembered when I was very active in the struggle for human rights and social justice. As Deputy Secretary General (DSG) of Democratic Alternative (DA), we were much concerned with democratic alternative processes and social justice with a whiff of good governance, and this has been the case for some NGOs, as I know.
I came to understand from my experiences that, as a country, we have good public-oriented programs, but our major challenges are implementation and follow-up that come with too many talks but no individual action or collective responsibility because many Nigerians are fearful, and this has made me a one-man advocate/crusader for human rights and social justice. Like the subject of this work.
Now back to the subject. Osama is a brand package, fearless advocate, and mouthpiece for good governance on the Plateau through Town Hall, a popular radio program aired by JFM 101.9 FM. Jos is widely listened to. He was born as Ehis Akugnonu. But Osama has overtaken his certified name. Therefore, my continued use of Osama is justified in this work because I realized that many times your other name (also known as) tends to dominate and overshadow your real name.
Osama is redefining the fight for good governance by personal efforts through follow-up and speaking on them, putting the government on their feet to improve and do better. ‘I am for good governance, and I will continue to speak on this matter.’ He is purposefully driven by his passion for good quality and better systems to have an enabling environment where the systems are working for progress and development.
Balami, a publisher/columnist 08036779290
Osama, For Good Governance and Social Justice Through the Radio
Columns
In Marriage Nest, Spouses Are Dying Ignoring Red Flags and The Panacea (2)

In Marriage Nest, Spouses Are Dying Ignoring Red Flags and The Panacea (2)
By: Balami Lazarus
I saw it coming. As a writer, my works and I have been verbally attacked several times. I raised an eyebrow at how some readers react by using bad language on issues, opinions, and views. Well, that is their way of expression when they are displeased, but I feel it is grotty.
And here is the conclusion of the “controversial piece,” as one caller puts it. For me, there is nothing controversial about this discourse but the truth of the grotesque happenings in married homes. And the way out, as I earlier wrote, is divorce.
Recently there has been an inflation of brutal murders in marriages; those killed are mostly women and children, and fewer men. What justification does one have to continue in a marriage where there are threats, violence, and unhappiness generated by the presence of either the husband or the wife? And unknowingly one becomes prey hunted by an in-house predator.
Sharks areamong the most intelligent aquatic animals. Their sense of smell is very sharp; they can smell and detect blood or any red object in water from a far distance and come for it at near the speed of light. Therefore, women’s body chemistry is like that of sharks; they sense and notice things easily. But what is wrong with many of them in marriage that they are unable to detect landmines or red flags early in their marriages? Where there is a threat to life with the intention to hurt, harm, and/or cause grievous injury or death, that is when they realize they are living in gross bondage if they are lucky to come out of it alive.
As students at Pluto College Sharam in Kanke-Plateau State, we were told and made to understand as boys to treat our girl students with love and care and be there for them when the need arises. That was one of the lessons that came from the late Dr. Sumaila Ndayako (Rector), as he was known and called. As boys, we dared not humiliate, insult, or threaten them in any way; rather, we were to take them as our sisters by extension. This has taught me to respect and care for the opposite sex.
Moreover, my association, membership, and experience with some human rights organizations have enlightened me with rights, liberties, and freedom garnished by respect for individual differences, rights and privileges, consent, and action. With this knowledge put together, I consider marriage never a do-or-die affair but a privilege with consent to be a husband to a woman who also has rights/consent to be a wife and live in matrimony. Why then humiliation, abuses, and domestic violence?
I have observed in my experience as a married man that if you take away some women from their husbands, they will die, and vice versa. Despite the domestic violence and abuses inflicted on either party, he/she is willing and prefers to die in such gothic marriage situations because one among them has a deep spiritual attachment to the marriage. This is common in Christendom, where “till death do us part.” My question here is, what kind of death? Intentional, accidental, or natural? This created injunction clause does not hold water in life-threatening marriages.
Living in a shark-jaws marriage, I always blamed women who had seen the red flags but refused to leave such marriages and the house-husband (husband). I further came to understand that patience and the pretext that all is well have caused damage to both spouses in terms of emotional and traumatic agonies and some to their graves.
Therefore, spouses that are trapped in this valley of death with its quagmire should know that marriage is a thing of choice. Likewise, divorce is permissible as a panacea for both to be alive to breathe freely.
Balami, a publisher/columnist, 0803677929
In Marriage Nest, Spouses Are Dying Ignoring Red Flags and The Panacea (2)
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