On September 1, 1975, the Federal Government acquired a 60 per cent equity holding in the Daily Times of Nigeria Limited, marking one of the most significant moves in the country’s media history.
The shares were purchased through the National Insurance Corporation of Nigeria, NICON, which acted as the government’s investment vehicle in the transaction.
With the acquisition, the Federal Government became the majority shareholder in the nation’s oldest and largest newspaper organisation. The remaining 40 per cent of the equity remained in private hands.
Government sources said the decision was aimed at ensuring that the Daily Times continues to serve the national interest and reflect government policies during a critical period of the nation’s development.
The Daily Times, founded in 1926, has become the flagship of Nigerian journalism, with editions and printing plants across the country as at time of acquisition.
Officials of NICON confirmed that all necessary agreements were concluded on Monday, and that the new equity structure takes immediate effect.
Industry observers note that the takeover aligns with the Federal Government’s broader policy of increasing public participation in key sectors of the economy.
September 1, 1994: Raypower 100.5fm officially went on air
On September 1, 1994, RayPower 100.5 FM, the first private radio station in Nigeria, officially went on air.
RayPower, owned by Daar Communications Plc, began test transmissions from its studios in Lagos, with a promise of “24-hour music, news, and talk that reflects the Nigerian people.”
The station’s frequency, 100.5 FM, was received clearly across Lagos and parts of Ogun and Oyo States during its inaugural broadcast.
Speaking at the launch, the Chairman of Daar Communications said the station would provide an alternative voice, promote free expression, and set new standards in entertainment and information.
“Today we are not just launching a radio station. We are launching a new era for the Nigerian media,” he said.
The Federal Government deregulated the broadcast sector in 1992, paving the way for private operators to apply for licenses. RayPower is the first to beat the deadline and commence full commercial broadcasting.
September 1, 2004: Basil Omiyi Becomes First Nigerian MD of Shell SPDC
On September 1, 2004, Royal Dutch Shell appointed Basil Omiyi as Managing Director of The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited, SPDC, making him the first Nigerian to head the company in its more than 60-year history in the country.
Omiyi succeeded the outgoing expatriate MD and oversaw SPDC’s onshore and shallow water operations, which account for a significant portion of Nigeria’s crude oil production.
According to industry observers, the move was a major step in Shell’s Nigerianization policy and local content drive.
“This appointment reflects Shell’s confidence in Nigerian leadership and expertise,” a Shell spokesperson said in a statement. “Mr. Omiyi brings decades of experience and deep understanding of our operations in Nigeria.”
Omiyi, a chemical engineer by training, joined Shell in 1979 and has held senior roles in exploration, production, and corporate affairs both in Nigeria and abroad. Prior to this appointment, he served as General Manager, External Relations, for SPDC.
Speaking on his new role, Omiyi said he was committed to strengthening community relations, improving operational efficiency, and delivering value to stakeholders, including government, host communities, and shareholders.
September 1, 2018: A police officer was beheaded in Jos North, Plateau.
On September 1, 2018, a police officer was killed in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, in what authorities described as a targeted attack.
The incident occurred in a community within Jos North.
According to Plateau State Police Command, the officer was ambushed and killed while on duty. His service weapon was taken by the attackers.
Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Tyopev Terna, confirmed the killing to reporters.
He said the command had deployed additional personnel to the area and launched an investigation to apprehend those responsible.
“We condemn this attack in the strongest terms. Our men are on the ground and we are working with other security agencies to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice,” he said.
Residents reported heightened security presence with patrols and checkpoints mounted across parts of Jos North following the incident. Businesses opened later than usual as people stayed indoors.
The Plateau State Government urged residents to remain calm and provide useful information to security agencies.
