undefined | Pope Leo slams Trump’s threat that Iran’s ‘civilisation will die’

A massive blaze erupted at an oil storage complex on the outskirts of Baghdad, turning several large tanks into towering infernos. Witnesses reported thick black smoke billowing over the surrounding neighborhoods, while flames leapt high into the sky, visible for miles. Early reports suggest that the fire may have been triggered by an explosion in one of the tanks, though the exact cause remains under investigation.

Emergency crews from Iraq’s Ministry of Interior and the local fire department rushed to the site, deploying multiple fire‑fighting units and air‑lifted water bombers in an effort to contain the conflagration. The intense heat forced nearby residents to evacuate, and authorities set up a temporary exclusion zone to keep civilians away from the hazardous area. By nightfall, the flames were largely brought under control, but several tanks remained ablaze, and the risk of further explosions persisted.

Preliminary assessments indicate that the incident could have significant environmental and economic repercussions, with the potential loss of millions of barrels of oil and the release of toxic fumes. Iraqi officials have pledged a thorough investigation to determine whether the fire was accidental or the result of sabotage, and they have called for heightened security measures at critical energy infrastructure across the country. International partners have offered assistance, emphasizing the strategic importance of stabilizing Iraq’s oil sector amid regional tensions.

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#iran #baghdad #ministryofinterior #iraq #oilsector

Friday, March 20, 2026

https://activitypub.writeworks.uk/2026/03/friday-march-20-2026/

Senator Adams Oshiomhole celebrates the exits of Farouk Ahmed and Gbenga Komolafe and demands new leaders protect Nigerian refinery jobs and stop import-first policies Read full story below, Read more below. #ValidUpdates #Nigeria #OilSector #JobsFirst #R

https://validupdates.com/2025/12/oshiomhole-praises-farouk-ahmed-exit-and-urges-job-creation-over-imports/

Tinubu nominates new oil regulators after NMDPRA chief steps down

Key Points

• Two agency chiefs resigned after public pressure and claims. Tinubu sent two nominees for Senate confirmation immediately.

• Dangote lodged a formal claim and filed a petition. The move sparked probes by oversight bodies and lawmakers.

• New nominees bring long oil sector careers and experience. The Senate must consider the picks without delay.

President Bola Tinubu asked the Senate to confirm nominees. Two agency heads resigned amid a public dispute. The resignations follow broad claims and a formal petition.

Farouk Ahmed left his post at NMDPRA on Tuesday. Dangote filed a detailed claim with the ICPC today. More details appear in Dangote files petition prompts ICPC probe.

Why the resignations matter

The shake up raises investor concern in the oil sector. Agency change can shift licence rules and market trust. Analysts say a fair probe could restore market calm.

Lawmakers demanded documents and hearings to get answers. The House called both sides to calm things down. Committees will seek records about licences and imports.

Market players worry about sudden shifts in supply chains. Refinery operators said stable rules support long term plans. A clear probe may calm investors and traders.

Who the nominees are

Tinubu nominated Oritsemeyiwa Amanorisewo Eyesan to NUPRC as new CEO. Eyesan spent nearly thirty three years at NNPC. She led upstream operations and planning roles there.

Tinubu also named Engineer Saidu Aliyu Mohammed to lead NMDPRA. Mohammed is a chemical engineer with decades of experience. The president urged speedy Senate confirmation for both nominees.

Industry watchers said both choices bring steady work records. ValidUpdates noted recent refinery price moves and market shifts. More details appear in Dangote refinery cuts petrol price.

Both nominees have held senior posts in state firms. Eyesan retired as EVP and led upstream operations. Mohammed served on boards and advised gas projects recently.

Observers say continuity matters while probes run in parallel. The Senate will now review each nominee’s record and fitness. A quick vetting may reassure investors and workers alike.

What happens next

The ICPC confirmed it received Dangote’s formal filing today. Investigators will examine records and money flows in due course. Legal steps may follow if evidence supports the claim.

The House committees have set a hearing this week. Lawmakers will call parties to give clear info and answers. Public interest groups urged calm things down and patience.

Market reaction could ease if probes seem fair and quick. Investors watch licences and import rules for policy signals. Stable policy will help refineries and supply planning recover.

The presidency stressed smooth transitions and continuity in reforms. Officials said a fair probe can restore public trust. The president asked the Senate to act without undue delay.

Readers can follow updates on the NMDPRA Archives tag page. ValidUpdates will publish new documents and hearing notes. More reporting will track outcomes for regulators and markets.