FEATURES
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has backed the administration of President Bola Tinubu, over the tax reform bill, stating that it is a critical issue.
Naija News reports that the four tax reform bills proposed by Tinubu are stoking anger in Northern Nigeria, with groups in the region demanding the suspension of passage of the legislation.
The Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, also insisted that if the tax bills are passed into law, only Lagos and Rivers state will benefit.
However, a statement from the presidency explained that Tinubu proposed the reforms due to a need to streamline tax administration in Nigeria and make the operating environment conducive for businesses.
In a statement via X on Monday, Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State, stated that there is nothing wrong with pursuing the tax reform bills.
However, Peter Obi asserted that a public hearing on tax reform is essential for Nigerians from all walks of life to engage meaningfully.
According to Obi, the federal government must sensitize the masses and secure their buy-in for policy changes.
The statement reads, “Tax reform is a critical issue, and there is nothing wrong with pursuing it. However, such reform must be subject to robust and informed public debate. A public hearing on tax reform is essential, allowing Nigerians from all walks of life to engage meaningfully. This is how we build public trust and ensure inclusivity in policymaking.
“Matters of this magnitude require extensive deliberation and careful consideration—they should never be rushed. Public hearings must be conducted to allow for diverse opinions and inputs. Such public hearing would also enable the broadest spectrum of public opinion to be reflected in public policy.
“When considering tax reforms and similar issues, it is insufficient to focus solely on the benefits to the government, particularly in terms of increasing revenue collection. We must also take into account the overall impact on the nation and the sustainability of all its regions.
“Furthermore, the government must sensitize the people and secure their buy-in for any policy changes. Trust and legitimacy are the foundation of effective governance, and without them, even the best-intended reforms may fail.
“Let us prioritize transparency, deliberation, and public engagement in charting the path forward. This is how we build a truly participatory democracy.”
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West), has said the National Assembly will pass the tax reform bills despite opposition from different quarters.
Dickson, in an interview with newsmen in Abuja on Monday, said the bills would be passed like the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), stressing that heavens would not fall when the tax bills are consequently passed.
President Bola Tinubu had on October 3, 2024, transmitted to the National Assembly, four tax reform bills, in a letter, read by the Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajuddeen Abbas, during separate plenaries of the two chambers.
Tinubu said the bills would bolster Nigeria’s fiscal institutions, adding that they were in line with his government’s broader development objectives for the country.
But Nigerians including some governors, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, federal lawmakers and others have kicked against the bills.
Recall that the Senate had last week passed the bills for second reading while the House of Representatives is yet to act on the bills.
Dickson also dispelled the claim that the planned public hearing on the bills could be chaotic if proper consultations were not done, and urged those opposed to the bills to attend the public hearing with facts if they have issues with any sections of the proposed fiscal legislations.
Dickson, former Governor of Bayelsa State said, “The PIA was passed. We wanted 10% which was what Yar’adua proposed. They (federal lawmakers) reduced it to 3%. Heaven did not fall. This tax reform bills will pass and heavens will not fall.
“The Senate has passed the bills for second reading. Public hearing will take place and people should get ready to present their positions. The tax bill is a proposed law like every other and it has to go through the normal legislative process.
“Right now, taxes from Bayelsa State are paid to Lagos State and I don’t want that to continue. When there is consumption of any goods or services from any state it should be calculated and paid to that state.
“Now there is an opportunity to review the tax laws, to correct the anomalies and that is why I’m in support. I know there are states that are feeling that when they apply the new sharing formula, they will earn less. It’s for them to raise those issues and bring the statistics. I don’t go by sentiments. I go by what is right and in the national interest.”
The Kano State House of Assembly on Monday rejected the Tax Reform bills currently under consideration at the National Assembly.
At a plenary, presided over by the Speaker, Isma’il Falgore, the lawmakers kicked against the bills after extensive deliberation.
The Majority Leader, Lawan Husseini (ANPP-Dala) introduced a motion of ‘urgent public importance,’ emphasising the need for northern lawmakers and the Conference of Speakers to prevent the passage of the bills.
Mr Husseini argued that if passed into law, the bills would not benefit the Northern States.
He condemned the Senate’s decision to approve the bills, saying, “We view it as a deliberate effort to sabotage the economy, increase hardship and further impoverishing the region.”
Mr Husseini expressed concern over the proposed VAT allocation system, noting that states like Lagos, where major corporations such as Nigerian banks, telecommunications companies, and multinational companies were headquartered, would receive the largest share of the VAT.
“Lagos and its environs would account for 80 percent of the VAT collected in Nigeria, leaving northern states with a minimal share,” he said.
He warned that if allowed to scale through, the bill would further weaken northern states, potentially rendering some unable to pay salaries and worsening poverty and hardship.
Mr Husseini expressed concern over the proposed VAT allocation system, noting that states like Lagos, where major corporations such as Nigerian banks, telecommunications companies, and multinational companies were headquartered, would receive the largest share of the VAT.
“Lagos and its environs would account for 80 percent of the VAT collected in Nigeria, leaving northern states with a minimal share,” he said.
He warned that if allowed to scale through, the bill would further weaken northern states, potentially rendering some unable to pay salaries and worsening poverty and hardship.
Supporting the motion, Salisu Mohammed (APC-Doguwa) urged the upper legislative house to focus on more pressing national issues, such as attention insecurity and unemployment, instead of rushing the tax reform bills through the legislative process.
Similarly, Murtala Kadage (ANPP-Garko) called for unity among lawmakers to prevent the bills from passing, for the benefit of the region.
The house called on northern members of the Senate and House of Representatives, along with the Conference of Speakers, to take a swift and decisive action to block the passage of the bills.
Social media user ThatBlessedGirl stirred online conversations with her post:
"Girls will think men are easy and cheap to get. Until it’s time to get married. You’ll realise that commitment from men might even require you to go to Shiloh."
This statement highlights the challenges women face when seeking long-term commitment from men, particularly in the context of marriage. The mention of Shiloh, a well-known annual Christian prayer retreat, implies the level of spiritual dedication some may feel is necessary to secure a serious commitment.
Netizens flooded the comment section with divided opinions. Some agreed, sharing personal experiences of how men often hesitate to commit, while others felt it unfairly placed blame on women.
"Girls will think men are easy and cheap to get. Until it’s time to get married. You’ll realise that commitment from men might even require you to go to Shiloh."
This statement highlights the challenges women face when seeking long-term commitment from men, particularly in the context of marriage. The mention of Shiloh, a well-known annual Christian prayer retreat, implies the level of spiritual dedication some may feel is necessary to secure a serious commitment.
Netizens flooded the comment section with divided opinions. Some agreed, sharing personal experiences of how men often hesitate to commit, while others felt it unfairly placed blame on women.
PHOTOS: EFCC secures ‘single largest asset forfeiture’ of Abuja housing estate by court order from ex-govt official
AFOLABI
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has successfully obtained the final forfeiture of a property situated in the federal capital territory (FCT) following a ruling on Monday by Judge Jude Onwuegbuzie of the FCT High Court.
In a statement made available to newsmen, the spokesperson for the anti-corruption agency, Dele Oyewale, noted that the property spans 150,500 square meters and comprises 753 units of duplexes and various other apartments, marking it as the largest single asset recovered by the EFCC since its establishment in 2003.
The individual who forfeited the property was not mentioned, but Oyewale said it belonged to a “former top brass of the government”.
“The road to the final forfeiture of the property was paved by an interim forfeiture order, secured before the same Judge on November 1, 2024,” he said.
“The government official which fraudulently built the estate is being investigated by the EFCC. The forfeiture of the asset is an important modality of depriving the suspect of the proceeds of the crime.
“In this instance, the Commission relied on Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud And Other Fraud Related Offences Act No 14, 2006 and Section 44 (2) B of the Constitution of the 199 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to push its case.
“The Establishment Act of the Commission places huge emphasis on asset recovery.”
The spokesperson for the EFCC stated that the judge determined the respondent failed to provide sufficient justification for retaining the property in question.
Oyewale referenced Ola Olukoyede, the chair of the EFCC, who emphasized that asset recovery is essential in combating corruption economic and financial crimes, and serves as a significant deterrent to corrupt and fraudulent activities.
See images of the recovered asset below:
See images of the recovered asset below:
Finnish authorities have given reasons why the controversial pro-Biafra agitator, Simon Ekpa, cannot be granted bail in Finland.
A Senior Detective Superintendent at Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation, Mikko Laaksonen, told Punch newspaper on Saturday that the Finnish legal system does not permit bail for suspects accused of the kind of offences Mr Ekpa is accused of.
PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that Mr Ekpa was arrested alongside four others on 21 November on suspicion of terrorist activities.
The Finnish police said Mr Ekpa “has contributed to violence and crimes against civilians in South-eastern Nigeria.”
The District Court of Päijät-Häme later ordered that the pro-Biafra agitator be imprisoned “with probable cause on suspicion of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent.”
He is expected to face charges in May 2025, according to Finnish authorities.
Mr Ekpa was indicted for financing terrorism alongside the four other suspects. The police have a suspicion that the Biafra agitator committed the crime of collecting money in violation of the Finnish Money Collection Act. The Finnish police said he allegedly committed the crimes between 23 August 2021 and 18 November 2024 in Lahti, a town in Finland.
IPOB is a group leading the agitation for an independent state of Biafra, which it wants carved out from the south-east and some parts of south-south Nigeria. The separatist group has been linked to some deadly attacks in the two regions, although it has repeatedly denied its involvement in the attacks.
Meanwhile, hours after the arrest, the IPOB faction loyal to Mr Kanu disowned Mr Ekpa last Friday, explaining that the pro-Biafra agitator was never their member.
When asked if Mr Ekpa’s charges were bailable or if the prosecution was disposed to releasing him on bail, Mr Laaksonen responded, “Finnish criminal procedure/coercive measures do not recognise bail procedure. Our procedure is based on, depending on the case, remand or travel ban as coercive measures for limiting freedom of movement for persons suspected of offences to which such measures are applicable.”
The situation implies that Mr Ekpa will remain imprisoned until May 2025, when he is scheduled to face trial at the District Court of Päijät-Häme in the North European country.
Belgium made history on Sunday by becoming the first country in the world to allow sex workers to sign formal employment contracts, granting them access to benefits such as sick leave, maternity pay, and pensions.
The new law also ensures fundamental rights for sex workers, including the ability to refuse clients, set conditions for their work, and halt an act at any time.
Although the legislation was passed in May, it officially came into effect on Sunday.
“I am a very proud Belgium sex worker right now,” said Mel Meliciousss, a member of the Belgian union of sex workers, UTSOPI, in an Instagram post.
“People who are already working in the industry will be much more protect[ed], and also people who are going to work in the industry also know what their rights are.”
Belgium had already refrained from criminalizing the act of offering or paying for sexual services, focusing instead on penalizing brothels and third parties involved in supporting sex work—such as landlords, bankers, and drivers—under accusations of “pimping.”
However, in 2022, lawmakers voted to decriminalize sex work and refine the definition of pimping, allowing sex workers greater access to essential services without legal obstacles.
The new law extends these efforts by providing sex workers with labour rights equivalent to those in other professions.
These include access to pensions, health insurance, unemployment benefits, family allowances, annual vacations, and maternity leave.
Employers must now obtain authorization, have no prior convictions for sexual assault, human trafficking, or fraud, and maintain clean and safe premises equipped with panic buttons. They are also prohibited from dismissing workers who refuse a client or specific act.
These changes reflect years of advocacy by Belgium’s sex worker union, UTSOPI, which highlighted the precarious conditions faced by workers before these protections.
Many were forced to continue working well into pregnancy or past retirement age due to a lack of benefits.
“This law is a huge step forward, ending legal discrimination against sex workers by allowing a full-fledged contract,” the union stated in May.
The protections apply only to sex workers with formal employment contracts and do not extend to self-employed workers or those involved in pornography or striptease.
Belgium’s reforms stand out even among other countries where sex work has been decriminalized, such as New Zealand, the Netherlands, and parts of Australia, as they provide a new level of comprehensive labor protections.
In the United States, Nevada remains the only state where brothels are legal, while prostitution outside of these establishments remains prohibited.
•Dogara: Nigerians should remove cap of regionalism, religion
Chairman, Presidential Advisory Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, yesterday, said the federal government did not intend to withdraw the controversial tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly.
Speaking at a town hall meeting on “Tax Reform Bills: Charting the Way Forward”, which was hosted by a national television, Oyedele said the committee was rather ready to repeat engagements with stakeholders.
There had been growing calls by some northern politicians that the bills be withdrawn to allow for further engagements following the controversies they had generated since their introduction.
However, Oyedele explained that contrary to speculations, there were no provisions in the bills that allowed for tax consultants to take over tax collection responsibilities. He added that those duties will still be undertaken by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
Oyedele also denied allegations that the tax reform committee did not consult the state governors during its engagement process. He said while he agreed that more consultation might be required, it was not correct that they were not engaged during the process.
But Governor of Nasarawa State, Mr. Abdullahi Sule, said the position of state governors on the tax reform bills was totally misunderstood.
Sule said while the governors believed the bills would address issues of multiple taxes, as well as waive duties on agricultural equipment imports, the increase of VAT from 20 per cent to 60 per cent at point of generation and consumption were rather confusing.
He said all the governors were agitating was for the bill to be withdrawn to allow for further discussion.
Sule also emphasised that the reported disagreement did not amount to a regional controversy.
Nonetheless, Oyedele said now that the bills appeared to have generated renewed interests from stakeholders, who hitherto showed no interest, the committee was prepared to repeat the engagement process.
He said consultation will also continue even after the bills had been passed into law.
Commenting on allegations that the presidential tax reform committee did not consult the state governors, Oyedele said, “No, they won’t say we didn’t consult them. They are saying we need to consult more, which we agree with because consultation will never end. Even after passing the bills, we must continue to consult.
“We had two sessions with the National Economic Council. We had almost a whole day with the finance commissioners from all over Nigeria.
“We’ve had at least four sessions with the heads of the internal revenue services from all the 36 states plus the FCT. To six geopolitical zones, we identified one governor per zone and wrote to them to go and meet them where they are with their cabinet and discuss. We did some of that.
“Some of them did not have time for us. For those who had, who appreciate the government of Nigeria, they say, no, let’s even set up a committee between my cabinet and your team to work through the details.”
Oyedele stated further, “We worked for more than six months. We always welcome opportunities to engage. But it is not correct to say that we did not consult.”
He also refuted claims that the federal government appeared to be in a rush to get the bills passed into law.
He explained, “And we are not in a hurry, sorry because when you find yourself in a situation where we are now, where people are starving, there’s poverty in the land, some people can’t make ends meet. The time to cut their taxes.
“The time to provide relief. The time to create opportunity for them. The time to make our businesses thrive is now, not tomorrow. In fact, we should have done it yesterday, but now is the next best time.”
On assumptions that the tax reform might cost President Bola Tinubu a second term, Oyedele said, “I feel really very sorry for Mr. President. Even though he says nobody should feel sorry for him. I have to be honest with you, in this role, Mr. President has never for once asked my committee to make sure that we do something when we are done.”
The tax reform committee chairman said Tinubu had given them a free hand to do their job without interference.
He said it was “Nigerians from all over Nigeria, who came up with this analysis using data to make those recommendations.
“But they blame everything on him. He’s taking all of it in good faith. I hope that the reason why, if anything happens in 2027, will not be because of this bill.
“Because that way, we’ll be doing an injustice, not only to him, but to the whole of this country, Nigeria.”
Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, called on Nigerians to be fair in their assessment of the tax reforms bills.
Dogara faulted the criticisms of the bills and said Nigerians should critically examine their benefits.
He said, “We should remove the cap of regionalism, the cap of sectionalism, the cap of religion and put on the cup of leadership because that is what will resolve the quarrel that we have.”
With inflation over 30 per cent and millions of Nigerians battling to afford basic commodities, critics believe the tax reform bills are coming at the wrong time.
Others say there is inadequate consultation over the bills.
But Dogara said the arguments were insufficient to throw the bills away.
He said, “I think one of the major objections is related to the issue of timing. I’ve heard this from leaders that I respect.
“But in leadership, when you talk about timing, the way I have heard them talk about is a tragic misconception of the notion of time itself because there’s nothing like the future, there’s nothing like the past.”
According to Dogara, “All we have is now. It is what you are doing now that will become your past. It is what you are doing now that will affect your future.
“I don’t even care if it was part of the president’s agenda. All I am bothered with as a leader is: is it the right thing?
“Secondly, I have heard about insufficient consultation. I had heard even legislators speaking as if they were spokespersons for some governors’ forum or others instead of looking at what is right and proffering solutions.
“Now, I don’t know why he (Taiwo Oyedele, who leads the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee and a panellist for the event) didn’t address some of these issues. But I believe in the course of our interface, he will address whether there was enough consultation with the governors.
“But I want to say this, at the state level, how many people do governors consult when they are making laws? I’m not challenging them. As a matter of fact, in some cases, state laws are written from the living rooms of governors.”
An Economist with SPM Professionals, Dr Paul Alaje, called for the harmonisation of how the country collected taxes, integrated them using intelligence, and ensured that everyone focused on their primary mandate, saying Nigeria would be better for it.
Alaje explained that over 60 government revenue agencies seemed distracted from their primary markets.
“They are chasing revenue to the detriment of the economy,” he said.
He recalled that agencies like Ghana Revenue Authority, Kenya Revenue Service, South Africa Revenue Service, and HMRC, collected social security.
According to Alaje, “If you go to Rwanda and you want to do your driver’s license, it is the revenue authority that collects it. Why? Because they have been set up to collect revenue. So they have the system, they have the structure, they have the training, they have the experience, they have the capacity. What we are doing in Nigeria is at the federal government level.”
Chief Executive Officer, Global Investment and Trade Company, Mr. Baba Yusuf, described the tax reform as one of the best policies undertaken by the Tinubu administration. Yusuf commended the presidential committee on tax reform for doing an excellent job.
He stated, “This reform is that which speaks to equity , speaks to data and has provided a platform for improvement going forward. Over 90 per cent of the vulnerable would be exempted from this tax. As a northerner, where about 70 per cent of the multi-dimensionally poor north are struggling under the vagaries of socio-economic headwinds, it should be pleasing to our leaders that where we have failed as subnational, there is federal intervention to provide that which has not been provided by state governors.”
Yusuf, however, noted the contentious issue of VAT in the bills, saying as a proponent of allocation by derivation, allocation by consumption, the rent-seeking transaction style of leadership will continue making people lazy and complacent.
He stated that leadership should be able to create value, innovate and protect, adding that the reform will reduce the inflow of the monthly allocation whereby governors go cap in hand.
“Some states in Nigeria are thriving because they created the value and added value,” Yusuf said.
Public analyst and writer, Micheal Chibuzor, described the tax reform exercise is an opportunity for the country to remove the loopholes militating against its wheel of progress.
“The VAT has been a major controversy because once you see people oppose the bill, they always turn to the VAT,” Chibuzor stated.
He said the country was about to realise N6 trillion in VAT collection, adding that states get most of their revenue from the bulk of what has been realised.
“That is why some states will feel very emotional about it,” he said, adding, “As a country, we should be ashamed that we are having a revenue that is less than $4 billion.”
Chibuzor listed the amount of revenue generated by some countries, saying Nigeria is using about $88 million to provide social services and infrastructure that will require money.
“Where do you get the money from? People will not want us to borrow because once we start doing that, we have to start funding the particular services,” he said.
He stressed the need for the country to reorganise its revenue streams through ensuring that individuals and businesses paid tax.
[Thisday]
The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN), has revealed that 70% of Nigerians approached for a bribe in 2023 rejected it on at least one occasion.
Dr. Aliyu disclosed this during a conference with State Attorneys-General from the North-West region in Kano, which focused on strengthening the ICPC’s capacity for corruption prevention. Themed “Establishing a community of practice for Attorneys General,” the event aimed to foster long-term partnerships in building a united front against corruption in Nigeria.
“No single arm of government or tier of government or agency can fight corruption because we need to come together locally, regionally, and internationally for us to fight corruption. This is an opportunity to enhance our collaboration to ensure that we create a system of accountability and transparency in our dear country,” he said.
Dr. Aliyu urged North-West Attorneys-General to closely collaborate with the ICPC to reinforce systems of accountability and transparency that serve the people. He also noted that in the North-West, 76% of individuals who encountered bribery demands resisted, marking the highest refusal rate among Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
“However, despite these challenges, the positive news is that 70 per cent of Nigerians approached for a bribe in 2023 refused to comply on at least one occasion. In the North-West, 76 per cent of individuals who encountered bribery requests resisted the highest refusal rate among Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, indicating growing resistance to bribery in the region,” he said.
Dr. Aliyu emphasized that collective efforts are vital for achieving long-term success in the fight against corruption. “As stakeholders, we must continue to encourage the people of the North-West to resist bribery demands. As Chairman of the ICPC, I am committed to ensuring that the Commission uses its law enforcement powers and preventive measures which include enlisting and fostering public support in combating corruption in Nigeria within the confines of the law.”
Kano Chief Judge, Justice Dije Abdu Aboki, commended the ICPC’s proactive approach in prioritizing preventive measures to combat corruption. According to her, while enforcement and prosecution are essential, prevention offers a more sustainable strategy by addressing the root causes of corruption.
“This approach aligns with the Judiciary’s role in interpreting laws that not only punish but also deter corrupt practices. We are well aware that no single entity can combat corruption in isolation. This is why the initiative to establish a community of practice among attorneys general is commendable, as it fosters collaboration, shared learning, and the harmonization of strategies across states,” she said.
Justice Aboki also highlighted the steps taken by the Kano State Judiciary to ensure accountability within its ranks, including the establishment of the Judicial Public Complaints Committee (JPCC), which investigates allegations of misconduct, abuse of power, and corruption. “With a mandate to act independently in order to ensure transparency, the JPCC serves as a mechanism for investigating allegations of misconduct, abuse of power, and corruption within the Judiciary,” she noted.
Other notable speakers at the conference included the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau, Dr. Abdullahi Usman Bello, the Presiding Judge of the Court of Appeal, Sokoto Division, Justice Muhammad Lawal Shu’aibu, as well as the Attorneys-General of Sokoto, Kano, Zamfara, Kaduna, and others.
''Officers filmed scooping fuel from the wreckage of an accidented tanker are not officers of the Nigeria Police Force''- Police PRO, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, says
AFOLABI
The spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has reacted to a trending video of some security officers scooping fuel from a broken-down petrol tanker.
The video made the rounds on social media with many Nigerians slamming men of the police for partaking in such an act.
Adejobi in a statement released this morning, clarified that the officers filmed scooping fuel from the wreckage of a tanker are not officers of the Nigeria Police Force but from a neighbouring francophone country.
According to him, the officers caught on tape wore camouflage uniforms that beared a resemblance to the Nigeria Police uniform. He added that the captured officers were speaking in french languagenm and not a Nigerian language or English language.
‘’The viral video circulating in the media that depicts uniformed personnel in camouflage scooping fuel from the wreckage of an accidented tanker was just released to discredit the Nigeria Police Force. It is essential to clarify that the individuals in the video are not officers of the Nigeria Police Force. They are uniformed personnel from a neighbouring francophone country whose camouflage uniforms bear a resemblance to the Nigeria Police's. The captured officers were speaking in french languages, not a Nigerian language or English.
We strongly condemn the spread of such disinformation and unverified news and contents aimed at tarnishing or discrediting the image of the Nigeria Police Force. Such actions not only undermine the integrity of the force but also have far-reaching negative consequences for the nation and its people.
The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the IGP, remains committed to upholding discipline, professionalism, and dedication to the safety and security of all Nigerians. Acts that compromise the reputation of the force are unequivocally unacceptable and will not be tolerated. We urge all Nigerians to exercise caution and verify information before sharing it, to foster national unity and uphold the credibility of institutions working tirelessly for public safety.''
Watch the the video below
Media
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Swiss building materials giant, Holcim AG has announced the sale of its Nigerian business to China’s Huaxin Cement Co. in a deal valued at $1 billion.
This transaction involves Holcim’s 83.81% stake in Lafarge Africa PLC, and it is expected to close in 2025, pending regulatory approvals.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by Holcim on Sunday.
The company is divesting its stake in Lafarge Africa as part of its strategy to streamline its portfolio and focus on core markets.
“Holcim has signed an agreement with Huaxin Cement Ltd to sell its entire 83.81% shareholding in Lafarge Africa PLC, at an equity value of USD 1 billion on a 100% basis.
The transaction is expected to close in 2025, subject to customary and regulatory approvals,” the company stated.
Details of the deal
The divestment in Nigeria aligns with Holcim’s plans to spin off and list its North American business in the US next year.
- The company aims to capitalize on strong demand in the North American market driven by a housing shortage and regulatory pressures for sustainable construction materials.
- The deal forms part of the company’s broader strategy to streamline its portfolio by shedding non-core assets.
- The sale is in line with Holcim’s focus on optimizing operations and expanding in markets where demand for its products, such as roofing and energy-efficient building materials, is growing rapidly.
Previous disposals in Africa
This sale is not Holcim’s first divestment on the continent. In 2021, Holcim closed the sale of its business in Zambia, representing a 75% stake in the company, to the Chinese cement group Huaxin for an enterprise value of USD 150 million for 100% of the company.
The deal was closed following approvals from Chinese and Zambian authorities.
Holcim’s CEO, Jan Jenisch, described the divestment as part of the company’s transformation towards becoming a leader in sustainable building solutions, enabling investments in growth opportunities, and praised Huaxin as a trusted partner suited to advancing the Zambian business.
“This divestment is another step in our transformation to become the global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions giving us the flexibility to continue investing in attractive growth opportunities. Huaxin has been a trusted partner for many years and we see the company as an ideal owner to further develop the business in Zambia.”
The sale of Holcim’s business in Zambia follows the divestment of the Indian Ocean cluster, which was closed at the end of October 2021. Since 2019 the company has achieved over USD 3.1 billion in divestments.
What you should know
- Holcim AG is a Swiss-based global leader in building materials and sustainable construction solutions.
- The company specializes in cement, concrete, aggregates, and innovative building products, with a strong focus on sustainability and recycling.
- The company has over 70,000 employees worldwide.
[Nairametrics]
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries, recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
AFOLABI
Troops of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have deactivated 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recovered 1.2 million litres of stolen products in the Niger Delta.
Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel, Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, December 1, 2024, said troops also arrested 17 suspected oil thieves, destroyed 88 cooking drums and 20 boats used for the illicit activity in four states, Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta and Akwa Ibom, respectively.
Danjuma stated that the operations which were conducted from November 25 to December 1, 2024.
“Troops of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in conjunction with other security agencies, have increased the rhythm of the ongoing anti-illegal bunkering operations across the Niger Delta Region, with visible operational footprints,” the statement read.
"The operations, which were conducted from 25 November - 1 December 2024, led to the deactivation of over 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries, 88 cooking drums, and 20 boats,s, as well as the recovery of over 1.2 Million litres of stolen crude. Others included the arrest of 17 suspected oil thieves, interception of seven vehicles, discovery of six illegal connection points and destruction of five motorcycles used for perpetrating economic sabotage across the region.
"In Bayelsa State, at an abandoned Oando wellhead situated in Okordia Forest, Yenagoa Local Government Area (LGA), 15 illegal refining sites were deactivated with over 755,000 litres of stolen crude as well as over 53,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) recovered. Similarly, around Biseni Forest, also in Yenagoa LGA, 12 illegal refining sites with over 34,000 litres of stolen crude as well as 5,500 litres of illegally refined AGO were confiscated.
"In a related development in Rivers State, around Kula I, general area in Akuku-Toru LGA, troops discovered one illegal connection on 36 inch Government pipeline, with three inches hose connected on it, used as a loading point by oil thieves. This was in addition to a ground reservoir of 80 by 80 tarpaulin stocked with over 100,000 litres of stolen products recovered during the operations.
"The operation was also extended to Omoku, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, where an abandoned truck ladened with 35,000 litres of stolen crude stocked in a fabricated tank and concealed with bags of sawdust was uncovered.
"Relatedly, around Bakana and Buguma general area in Degema LGA, eight illegal refining sites with over 27,000 litres of stolen crude were confiscated. Three wooden boats, one fibre speed boat, several pots of different sizes, two receivers containing AGO and a local boat with over 12,000 litres of stolen were intercepted. The operation also led to the arrest of three suspected oil thieves in connection to the economic sabotage.
"Also in Bukuma community in Degema LGA, one illegal refining site, a reservoir with over 5,000 litres of stolen crude was dismantled. While at Imo River, eleven illegal refining sites, 88 cooking drums, 26 metal container receivers, 14 plastic tanks, eleven boats, and four pumping machines with over 42,500 litres of stolen crude were recovered, with three suspects arrested. Around Obiafu Oil Field, several vehicles were intercepted with over 5500 litres of stolen products recovered.
"Similarly, in Delta State, troops pursued economic saboteurs to Ugo Community in Orhionwon LGA of Edo State, where one suspected oil thief was arrested. He subsequently led troops to a bunkering site. Enroute the site, troops discovered a stationary Toyota Sequoia Jeep with Reg No Edo WWR 896 JU, loaded with sacks meant for stealing products.
"Further combing of the area, led to the discovery of a storage filled with stolen crude as well as over 200 sacks filled with over 40,000 litres of stolen products. At Yeye general area in Warri South LGA, one active illegal refining site, two ovens containing substances suspected to be over 2,000 litres of illegally refined AGO, were confiscated.
"Additionally, one Yamaha outboard engine with four suspected oil thieves arrested. While in Akwa Ibom, troops acting on credible intelligence, intercepted several drums of estimated to be over 5,580 litres of petroleum motor spirit at Enwang Bridge in Mbo LGA. The products were being prepared for onward smuggling to a neighbouring country.
“The General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, while commending troops for the huge operational successes recorded, reassured that the ongoing onslaught against illegal oil bunkering would be sustained. This, he averred is aimed at securing all critical national infrastructures within the Division's Area of Responsibility.”
Popular actress, comedian, and influencer, Chinonso Ukah, a.k.a. Nons Miraj, is set to launch a dating App to help singles discover genuine relationships.
This was contained in a statement issued and made available to journalists on Sunday by Nons Miraj’s Brand Manager, Becky Joe,
Joe said the Hunt Games dating App to be launched on December 4 in Lagos is designed for singles to find their perfect matches.
“At its core, this app is about bringing people closer together in a way that feels natural, exciting, and secure.
“We’re creating a space where users can meet people who truly align with their values and interests, without the superficial barriers.
“It is all about bringing singles together in a real and meaningful way. It’s set to be the ultimate go-to, for finding genuine connections.
“It is fresh, it is fun and it is here to help you find your perfect match in today’s fast-paced digital world,” the statement said.
According to Joe, the App combined cutting-edge technology with a user-friendly interface, adding that it will be available for download on both iOS and Android devices.
“Unlike traditional dating platforms, it incorporates unique features that foster authentic connections, including interest-based matching, privacy, and verified user profiles to ensure safety and transparency,” she added.
She said the App’s official launch would coincide with an exclusive event featuring live entertainment, and networking opportunities for singles and influencers alike.
Nons Miraj is the host of one of the biggest shows in Nigeria, ‘The Hunt Games Show’, which started in 2023.
Nigeria cultural tours
She took part in the Next Movie Star, Nigerian TV reality show and became the first runner-up
She began her acting career in mid-2015, starring in the Nollywood horror film Quiet and began full time acting in 2017, after gaining admission into the university.
Nons Miraj has also featured in several other Nollywood movies including, Imperfect (2019) Pandora’s Box (2020), Our Wife (2019), The Third Wheel (2021) Hustle (2021), among others.
Minimum wage: ‘I will sack you if you don’t report to work’ – Ebonyi gov tells striking workers
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Ebonyi State governor, Francis Nwifuru, has given workers in the state 72 hours ultimatum to resume work or face dismissal.
The governor also threatened to replace them after their dismissal from duty.
Nwifuru’s action followed a seven days warning strike embarked on by the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Ebonyi State wing.
Addressing newsmen on Monday in his office at the new Government House, Centenary City, Abakaliki, Nwifuru said the state government is not owing any worker.
He stated that the state government has approved N75,000 as minimum wage and has already started paying.
The NLC, Ebonyi State, had on Sunday commenced a seven days warning strike over the non-implementation of the new minimum wage in the state.
However, reacting to the strike, Nwifuru said, “If you don’t go to work, not only that I will not pay you salary, but I will replace you within 72 hours in your office.
“If I don’t see you in your office, consider yourself sacked. So far I am not guilty, I am not owing you.
“I am paying you what is supposed to be paid. And according to the agreement and the Constitution, I am not owing you. If you don’t go to work within 72 hours I will replace you.
“And I have called the state chairman of the Civil Service Commission. I have directed all the commissioners to go to their offices. All the agencies, all the departments of government must be in their office and record the people that come to work. And that is the people I will pay through table payment.
“I will pay you by the number of days you attended to your duty in your office. If you don’t want to come to work, you will forget about the state government.”
[DailyPost]