FEATURES
The Oyo State Government has announced the arrest of the organisers of a children’s party in Ibadan which led to the death of about 30 children.
The deadly stampede occurred at a children’s Christmas party in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.The incident took place on Wednesday morning at the Islamic High School in Bashorun, Ibadan.
It is understood that the party was organized by Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, in collaboration with Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Ibadan, owned by Oriyomi Hamzat.
Confirming the development, Governor Seyi Makinde said the main organizers have been taken into custody. He also disclosed in a statement that the government has commenced a thorough investigation into the matter.
The statement said: “Earlier today, an incident occurred in Islamic High School Basorun, the venue of an event organised for families. Sadly, a stampede at the venue has led to multiple loss of lives and injuries.
“This is a very sad day for us here in Oyo State. We sympathise with the parents whose joy has suddenly been turned to mourning due to these deaths.
“We have taken steps to ensure no further deaths are recorded at this venue by deploying security agents to restore order at the venue. We also deployed medical personnel and ambulances to the venue. The event has been stopped, and attendees have been escorted out of the venue. We are taking all realistic measures to ensure that the venue is secured.
“While investigations are ongoing, the primary organisers of the event that led to this stampede have been taken into custody.
“I want to reassure our people that anyone directly or remotely involved in this disaster will be held accountable. Please remain calm as the security agencies investigate this unfortunate incident.”
“Our hearts remain with the families and loved ones impacted by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace. Amen,” Makinde added.
The former special adviser on media and publicity to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Femi Adesina, has described Buhari as a friend of the masses, noting that his policies and decisions were focused on improving the lives of Nigerians.
In a tribute to celebrate Buhari who clocked 82 on Tuesday, Adesina said one of such policies was his decision not to remove fuel subsidies as Nigeria’s President.
He described him as ‘Ore Mekunu’, a Yoruba phrase for a friend of the poor, adding that he ‘still draws the people like magnets even in retirement’.
Adesina described his boss as a President who refused to take decisions that would further impoverish the masses even when aware that some corrupt leaders are benefiting.
“The Big Elephant in the room (was the) removal of fuel subsidy. Did you think the Government didn’t know that the money guzzling monster had to be slain? It knew.
“But who ensured that subsidies remained as long as it did? Buhari. And why? The people, the ordinary people. His argument was always simple.
“When oil sold for at least $100 per barrel in the international market, rising even to as high as $140 per barrel, what did the ordinary people gain? Nothing! So why should they be the ones to bear the brunt when oil prices fall?”, Adesina stated.
The former presidential aide said even though Buhari may share the conviction to remove subsidies at the end of his administration like the presidential candidate then, “he didn’t want to do something that would throw society into a tailspin for the sake of the ordinary people”.
Almost two years into retirement, Adesina said people still continue to mill around him because of his disposition to the poor.
The parents of Segun Olowookere, a young man reportedly arrested at the age of 17 in 2010 for allegedly stealing a fowl and eggs in Osun State, recently shared their journey and continued hope for justice after a decade of legal battles.
In an interview on the Talk To B show, hosted by actress Abiola Adebayo and aired on Tuesday, Olowookere Olarenwaju and his wife, Folashade, described a chain of events that led to the conviction of Segun, their only child, and subsequent years of hardship.
Mr Olowookere explained that their struggles began in 2008 when a cleric from Kwara State warned the family that their son would face great challenges in the future.
“The cleric said there is a generational curse on the child in the future, and it will be a tough one, but he said if God spares his life, that is the only battle he will fight in life. So we kept praying,” Segun’s father said.
Recalling how Segun was arrested two years later, the father said, “I was at my shop, where I rent out and sell video CDs when the police came around 11 am that day. They fired shots in the air, and we all ran away.”
He explained that the police successfully apprehended one boy and took him into their vehicle.
The boy reportedly came back to inform him that he had seen some of Segun’s schoolmates in the van, who told the police that he was not Segun, which made the police let him go.
The father added that the boy revealed to him that these schoolmates were being accused of stealing a chicken and eggs.
Olowookere explained how he urged his son to run away because he didn’t want him to be entangled in any police case.
He said, “I told my son about the incident, and he said they can’t be looking for him. My son doesn’t eat chicken because I also have a poultry.
“He said he can’t run away because he doesn’t even eat chicken. We begged him, but he insisted he won’t run because he’s innocent.
“The policemen returned around 9 pm that same day, and someone came to tell him (Segun) about it and urged him to run away. He didn’t run until the police took him away. I later realised the owner of the chicken was a member of my extended family.”
After being taken to the police station, Olowookere said the Divisional Police Officer demanded N30,000 to release Segun.
“I got to the station, and the DPO told me to bring N30,000 if I didn’t want my child to go to jail. The arrested children were about seven when we got to the station, so I wondered why they demanded N30,000 from only my son, but the DPO insisted.”
Olowookere explained that despite bringing N20,000, the DPO reportedly insisted on the full amount, refusing to show mercy.
“I begged him to collect the money, but he insisted on N30,000, so I should go and look for the complete money. He said he had no child and had no reason to be merciful,” he said.
Olowookere then sought help from politicians, but the situation grew more dire.
“I decided to involve politicians,” he said. “I went to meet one of the brothers of the then governor, Oyinlola. The brother sent someone to the DPO to release the boy, but the DPO said I went to report him to someone, and it wouldn’t stop him from collecting the money. He said I’ll be surprised that my son will go to jail.
“Within five minutes, he brought out my son and the rest. He also brought out the cutlasses they found in the house of their parents because they searched our houses. One of the boys, father was a hunter; they also brought his gun. The DPO laid the weapons in front of the boys and took their pictures with the weapons.”
“He told me to say goodbye to my son,” Olowookere recalled, struggling to hold back tears. “Then I burst into tears. He told me not to come close and that he doesn’t accept apologies. That was how they took the children away.
“They took them to Osogbo; on getting there, we had to get the service of a lawyer; they took the rest of them to welfare, but only my son was taken to Ilesa.”
Olowookere explained that although Segun was born in 1993 and 17 years old at the time of the incident, the DPO argued that since he had completed secondary school, he should not be considered a minor.
He claimed that the officer increased Segun’s age, claiming he was an undergraduate, despite the fact that Segun was just 15 days away from starting university when the problem began.
He added that about six months later, the other children involved were released, leaving only Segun in custody.
In an attempt to resolve the situation, he said he went to see his relative who owned the chicken and eggs and offered to compensate him for the chicken and eggs that were allegedly stolen.
However, the relative insisted that Segun was not involved in the theft and told him to leave.
“I went to meet our family elders, and they called him, but he still insisted my son was not among the thieves,” Segun’s father said.
He said the family endured years of court appearances, and one day, the judge mentioned that if the complainant did not show up in court the following month, the case would be dismissed.
This prompted Segun’s father to approach his relative, the complainant, along with another family elder, to encourage him to forgive Segun, especially since he was the only one left in the case.
They reportedly begged him to state that he was no longer interested in pursuing the case; however, the relative reacted angrily, accusing him of trying to lecture him.
He added that the relative later came to testify in court, claiming that Segun was the leader of the thieves, leading to his death sentence.
Olowookere recalled, “On the said day at court, I saw my brother and the policeman who made the arrest. The policeman was the first to speak, and he said Segun Olowookere is not among the thieves. We were all excited that my son would be free that day.
“When it was my brother’s turn to speak, he said my son is the leader of the thieves.
“Eventually, the judge sentenced my son to death. That was how I left the court in tears.
“People asked if he was a murderer; if not, why sentenced to death? We didn’t see anyone with an injury, not even a gunshot or sign of physical assault. People were surprised.”
Tearfully recounting the day of the sentencing, Oloowokere added, “I cried, and my son said, ‘My daddy, don’t cry.”
“He said if he’s truly innocent, he won’t be killed, but he will only be killed if he’s not innocent. He said I should be at peace that he won’t be killed. I couldn’t tell his mum when I got home. From the High Court, where the judgement was made, he was taken to Abeokuta.
“The judge also said that the governor of the state has the right to pardon my son after ten years if he chooses to do so. We’ve been praying about it since then.”
Speaking during the interview, Segun’s mother, Folashade, stated that in the years that followed, Segun was transferred to different prisons, including the Kiri Kiri Prison in Lagos State, where he managed to further his education despite the harsh conditions.
She said, “When he got to Kiri Kiri at first, he was selling food so he could have money to sponsor his education because he had a good result. So, he was trying to gather money to prepare for the school.
“I asked if it was possible there; he said yes. So, he calls us when he needs anything for the food he was selling and his education. I’ve visited the place, and I saw that there’s a school there.
“He even called us for his graduation, but he knew we didn’t have money, so we couldn’t attend his graduation. My younger siblings in Lagos attended on our behalf. He studied a medical course in prison.”
She also spoke of the emotional toll, saying, “We have been to every possible person for help, but each time it seemed like hope faded. My son’s situation has made me hypertensive.
“Since the beginning of this issue, I have never had a joyful festival season. I have no money, no business; the money is usually spent on this. I don’t want to die this way; have mercy and help me.
“People keep asking us what can be done, but we don’t know. We are even tired at this point, but if God has a purpose for his life that didn’t kill him till now, he will bring him out.”
Segun’s father also clarified that there were two out of the seven who were sentenced, but the other boy had some mental issues.
“I even thought his parents would have gone to pick him up because they asked them to come pick him up when the mental issue started,” he said.
PUNCH Online reports that in response to the widespread outcry over the issue, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has directed the state’s attorney general and commissioner for justice to launch a full investigation into the case, with the aim of granting Segun clemency.
The Dutch Data Protection Authority (Dutch DPA) has fined streaming giant Netflix €4.75 million for failing to provide customers with adequate and clear information about its handling of personal data between 2018 and 2020.
The fine comes after an investigation revealed violations of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
While Netflix has since updated its privacy statement and improved its data transparency, the Dutch DPA determined that significant lapses occurred during the investigation period.
Key Findings of the Investigation
Netflix collects a wide range of personal data from its users, including email addresses, phone numbers, payment details, and viewing habits.
However, Dutch DPA said the investigation initiated in 2019 found that:
- Netflix’s privacy statement failed to adequately inform customers about the purposes and legal basis for collecting and processing their data.
- The company did not clearly explain which personal data were shared with third parties and the reasons for such sharing.
- Netflix provided inadequate information about how long it retains users’ personal data.
- The platform did not clearly articulate how it safeguards personal data when transmitting it to countries outside the European Union.
In addition, when customers requested details about the data collected on them, Netflix’s responses were found lacking in clarity and detail.
“For this reason, the Dutch Data Protection Authority (Dutch DPA) is imposing a fine of 4.75 million euros on the streaming service,” the data protection watchdog said in a statement issued on Wednesday.
Dutch DPA Chairman Aleid Wolfsen emphasized the importance of transparency, especially for a global company like Netflix with billions in revenue and millions of users.
“A company like Netflix must explain properly to its customers how it handles their personal data. That must be crystal clear—especially if a customer asks about it. And that was not in order,” Wolfsen stated.
Origin of Complaints
The investigation was triggered by complaints filed by None of Your Business (noyb), an Austrian privacy advocacy group.
- These complaints were initially lodged with the Austrian Data Protection Authority but were forwarded to the Dutch DPA, as Netflix’s main European establishment is based in the Netherlands.
- Under GDPR rules, companies operating across multiple EU member states are overseen by the data protection authority in the country of their primary European base.
- The Dutch DPA coordinated the investigation and fine with other European regulators.
What you should know
The sanction highlights the increasing scrutiny under GDPR regulations and the importance of transparency for companies handling personal data.
- On Tuesday, social media giant, Meta, was also slammed a €251 million in Europe over a 2018 personal data breach that impacted 29 million Facebook users globally.
- In Meta’s case, the fine came from the Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC), which pointed out that the breach arose from the exploitation by unauthorized third parties of user tokens on the Facebook platform.
The increasing data protection enforcement happening in Europe is also signaling to the Nigerian data protection agency the need to pay closer attention to the way these multinationals are handling Nigerians’ data and take appropriate measures under the Nigeria Data Protection Act.
[Nairametrics]
Edo State government has clarified that the suspension of the 18 local government chairmen in the state was in line with the Constitution.
The Special Adviser to Governor Monday Okpebholo on Legal Matters, Barr, Andrew Emwanta, said the 18 local government chairmen suspended disobeyed the state Governor.
He stated this on Wednesday in an interview with New Central. He disclosed that the council chairmen were given a time limit to submit statements of their council account but they refused.
Emwanta explained that Governor Okpebholo’s decision did not go contrary to the Supreme Court’s ruling granting financial autonomy to local governments.
“People keep making reference to his Supreme Court decision that sort of guarantees financial autonomy for local government. What that means is that local government should get their funds directly. That is to say the control provided for under the Constitution by the states over the affairs of local government remains.
“Section 7 of the Constitution is very clear that the State House of Assembly has a duty of making a law for the existence, management and control of local governments. That provision of the law has not been amended.
“So it was pursuant to that particular law, the Edo local government law was made. There was a recent request by the Governor that the chairmen of the 18 local governments should submit their statements of accounts. A time limit was given and unfortunately, they refused to but rather they now said they would resort to court to challenge the authority of the state government to ask for those statements.
“And you can imagine a situation where you have local government chairman, they are busy using local government funds to do certain things that are not in conformity with specific guidelines and financial regulations. So that the suspension of course is backed by law. Section 20 of the local government law is clear that the Governor in consultation of the House of Assembly can suspend any area local government chairman or vice chairman as the case may be,” he said.
Emwanta stressed that former governors Adams Oshiomhole and Godwin Obaseki had during their administrations suspended local council chairmen.
He disclosed that an investigative panel of inquiry was already set by the Governor to look into the accounts of the council areas from September 2023.
The former Commissioner for Communication and Orientation promised that the committee would give the council chairmen fair hearing.
“Remember that this is not the first time, under the regime of Comrade Adams Oshomhole, over five local government chairmen were suspended. Even the recent administration of Obaseki, in 2019 alone four local government chairmen were suspended for two months.
“So you have a clear history of the provision of section 20 being followed and this particular instance is not an exception. The law requires the Governor to set up a panel of inquiry, an administrative panel of inquiry and by virtue of being the Special Advisor to the Governor of Legal matters, I’m a member of that panel of inquiry.
“We were inaugurated yesterday (Tuesday) and we assure those chairmen and all those in the local government administration that will be given fair hearing.
“We want to know how internally generated revenue they generate in their respective councils are spent because these are public funds. I want to know how allocations that come to these local governments have been spent since they came in September last year,” Emwanta stated.
[NaijaNews]
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) has emerged victorious in the grand finale of the 7 for 7 National Values Charter Campus Debate (NVCCD) 2024.
The event, organized by the National Orientation Agency, took place on December 17, 2024, at the esteemed Marriott Hotel, Ikeja GRA.
Adekunle Ayomide and Oladeji Oluwashina, two students from LAUTECH, Ogbomoso, demonstrated remarkable intellectual prowess and patriotic fervor, earning them the top spot with an impressive 43% of 3,921 votes.
Their outstanding performance was rewarded with a trophy and a substantial cash prize of N20 million.
The duo’s insightful arguments and unwavering dedication to upholding Nigeria’s shared values resonated deeply with the audience, garnering widespread acclaim.
Their achievement serves as a testament to the institution’s commitment to fostering intellectual excellence and nurturing patriotic values among its students.
In addition to LAUTECH’s triumph, zonal winners from six geopolitical zones also received recognition for their outstanding performances. These winners, representing esteemed institutions such as Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt; Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu; Gombe State Polytechnic, Bajoga; University of Ilorin; and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, each received a cash prize of N5 million and additional prizes from NELFUND.
Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, Director General of the National Orientation Agency, emphasized the importance of upholding Nigeria’s shared values, particularly among the youth.
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to working with young people under the National Identity Project (NIP) to promote national development.
Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, Managing Director of NELFUND, echoed this sentiment, highlighting his organization’s alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s vision.
The event served as a celebration of unity, resilience, and a shared commitment to national development, fostering a sense of patriotism and intellectual curiosity among the participants.
[DailyTrust]
President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Lagos State to commence his Christmas and New Year holidays.
The Presidential jet carrying Tinubu touched down at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, at 3:23 pm on Wednesday.
This was after Tinubu presented the 2025 Appropriation Bill to a joint session of the National Assembly for the 2025 fiscal year.
Tinubu’s 2025 budget was tagged: “The Restoration Budget: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity.”
In the highlights, Tinubu said N4.91 trillion has been allocated to Defence and Security, while Infrastructure has N4.06 trillion, Education – N3.52 trillion, and Health – N2.48 trillion.
DAILY POST reported that after the presentation, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas informed the president that the House would visit him in Lagos.
[DailyPost]
A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to always ensure that applicants who meet all the requirements are issued international passports within six weeks and in compliance with Section 9(4) of the Immigration Act 2015.
Justice Emeka Nwite issued the order in a judgment on a fundamental rights enforcement suit, marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/75/2023 filed by an aggrieved Nigerian, Benita Ngozi Ezumezu, with the NIS and the Interior Minister listed as respondents.
Benita claimed to have applied for Nigeria’s international passport and met all the requirements as of October 6, 2022, but the NIS failed to issue her the passport 14 weeks later.
In the judgment delivered on December 4, Justice Nwite rejected the respondents’ arguments, upheld the applicant’s claims, and granted all the reliefs sought by the applicant.
Justice Nwite, who awarded N3 million damages against the respondents and in favour of the applicant, declared that as of October 6, 2022, Benita had fulfilled all the requirements and was qualified to be issued a passport within six weeks.
The judge also declared that the respondents’ failure to issue the applicant passport 14 weeks after meeting all requirements violated Section 9(4) of the Immigration Act 2015 and the applicant’s right to freedom of movement.
He proceeded to issue an order “directing the first respondent (NIS) to issue the applicant (Benita) passport forthwith as stipulated in Section 9(4) of the Immigration Act 2015.”
Benita’s employer, Citizens’ Common (CC), a civil society group, expressed delight over the outcome of the case and commended the Judiciary for coming to the aid of a Nigerian whose right was violated.
CC’s Chief Executive, Olalekan Oshunkoya, who read a statement by his organization, said: “Our interest in Benita’s case is not just because she is a staff in our organization, but primarily because the service quality of the NIS has diminished to an all-time low in the last few years.
“The frustrating experiences of Nigerians, seeking to procure international passports in the hands of the NIS officials must be stopped.
“We understand that the service may have slightly improved in recent months under the current administration, however, we know that this case (Ezumezu’s case) highlights the plights of most Nigerians in the hands of many government ministries, departments and agencies when it comes to service delivery.
“After almost two years of litigation, we are glad that justice has been served in this matter. All the prayers sought in the case were granted by the judge.
“We commend the Judiciary for serving justice in this matter. This is a landmark judgement, asserting the right of every Nigerian to demand to be served right, especially when such service is tied to a fundamental right, such as freedom of movement.
“It should not be acceptable that services that can only be provided by the government remain poorly delivered without consequences.
“Majority of Nigerians continue to suffer irreparable loss for bad service quality from government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), and it is time to make things work.
“The award of the three million naira in general damages to the applicant is a reminder to every Nigerian that the law remains a shield against bad experiences and services from government ministries, departments, and agencies.
“We must sound the alarm that losses incurred in the process of poor service delivery can be remedied through the courts, and this is an example.
“It is also a reminder to public service providers that consequences exist for poor service delivery.”
[TheNation]
President Bola Tinubu has approved the reconstitution of the Executive Management of 12 River Basin Development Authorities under the Ministry of Water Resources.
Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, revealed this in a statement signed and released on Wednesday titled ‘President Tinubu approves Executive Management for River Basin Development Authorities.’
They are:
OGUN-OSUN RIVER BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, ABEOKUTA (Lagos, Oyo, Ogun and Osun)
Baby with Spina Bifida Begins Treatment After Punch Report; Mother Thanks Supporters
1. Odebunmi Olusegun – Chairman (Oyo)
2. Dr. Adedeji Ashiru – Managing Director (Osun)
3. Ayo Oyalowo – Executive Director, Finance (Oyo)
4. Dokunmu Oyekunle – Executive Director, Planning and Design (Ogun)
5. Suleiman Oris – Executive Director, Agric Services (Lagos)
6 . Julius Oloro – Executive Director, Engineering (Lagos)
UPPER BENUE RIVER BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, YOLA. Adamawa, Taraba, Gombe and Bauchi)
1. Sanusi Babantanko – Chairman (Bauchi)
2. Samuel Mahmud Mohammed – Managing Director (Taraba)
3. Usman Bakare – Executive Director, Engineering (Taraba)
4. Ibrahim Jalo – Executive Director Finance (Gombe)
5. Isa Matori – Executive Director, Planning and Design Part of Bauchi
6. Hamman Dikko – Executive Director, Agric Services (Adamawa)
CHAD BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, MAIDUGURI (Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa)
1. Prof. Abdu Dauda – Chairman (Borno)
2. Tijjani Tumsa – Managing Director (Yobe)
3. Bashir Baale – Executive Director, Finance (Yobe)
4. lliyasu Muazu – Executive Director, Agric Services (Adamawa)
5. Mohammed Shetima – Executive Director, Engineering (Borno)
6. Vrati Nzonzo – Executive Director, Planning and Design (Borno)
BENIN-OWENA DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (Edo, Delta North, Ondo and Ekiti)
1. Mike Ezomo – Chairman (Edo)
2. Femi Adekanbi – Managing Director (Ondo)
3. Dr. Austin Izagbo – Executive Director Planning and Design (Delta)
4. Johnson Oghuma – Executive Director, Agric Services (Edo)
5. Adegboyega Bamisile – Executive Director Finance (Ekiti)
6. Bayode Akinduro – Executive Director Engineering (Ondo)
NIGER DELTA BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (Rivers, Bayelsa and parts of Delta)
1. Ebikemi Bosin – Chairman (Delta)
2. Amgbare Ebitimi – Managing Director (Bayelsa)
3. Mary Alagoa – Executive Director Finance (Rivers)
4. Dr. Austin Izagbo – Executive Director, Engineering (Delta)
5. Felix Kurogha – Executive Director Agric Services (Bayelsa)
6. Dr. Nnamdi Akani – Executive Director, Planning and Design (Rivers)
UPPER NIGER RIVER BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, MINNA (Niger, Kaduna and FCT)
1. Haruna Usman – Chairman (Niger)
2. Dangajere Jaja – Managing Director (Kaduna)
3. M o h a m m e d Usma – Executive Director, Finance (Niger)
4. Dr. Abdullahi Kutso – Executive Director, Planning and Design (Niger)
5. Ayuba Tedde – Executive Director, Agric services (FCT)
6. John Hassan – Executive Director, Engineering (Kaduna)
LOWER NIGER RIVER BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, ILORIN (Kwara and Kogi)
1. Abdullateef Alakawa – Chairman (Kwara)
2 . George Olumoroti – Managing Director (Kogi)
3. Babajamu Adeniran – Executive Director, Engineering (Kwara)
4. Hon. Abdullahi Sadiq – Executive Director, Agric Services (Kogi)
5. Alanamu Abolere – Executive Director, Planning and Design (Kwara)
6. Abidemi Adeyemi – Executive Director Finance (Kogi)
LOWER BENUE RIVER BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, MAKURDI (Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa and Kogi)
1. Dr Amos Yadukso – Chairman ( Plateau )
2. Ninga Terese – Managing Director (Benue)
3. Chris Takar – Executive Director, Engineering (Benue)
4. Yusuf Omaaki – Executive Director, Finance (Nasarawa)
5. Hassan Omale – Executive Director, Agric Services (Kogi)
6. Okibe Ogomola – Executive Director, Planning and Design (Benue)
ANAMBRA – IMO RIVER BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, OWERRI (Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Abia and Ebonyi)
1. Emmanuel Anosike – Chairman (Anambra)
2. Emeka Nduka – Managing Director (Imo)
3. Nwebonyi Nkechi – Executive Director Finance (Ebonyi)
4. Evaristus Asadu – Executive Director, Engineering (Enugu)
5. Onukwubiri Ojigwe – Executive Director, Agric Services (Abia)
6. Abigail Igwe – Executive Director, Planning and Design (Anambra)
HADEJIA JAMAERE RIVER BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, KANO (Kano, Jigawa and Bauchi)
1 . Mamman Aliyu – Chairman (Jigawa)
2. Rabiu Bichi – Managing Director Director (Kano)
3. Tijjani Isa – Executive Director, Planning and Design (Jigawa)
4. Zainab Gamawa – Executive Director Agric Services (Bauchi)
5. Baffa Abdulkadir – Executive Director, Engineering (Kano)
6. Musa Kwankwaso – Executive Director Finance (Kano)
CROSS RIVER BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (Cross River and Akwa Ibom)
1. Mr. Wabilly Nyiam – Chairman (Cross River)
2. Glory Oho – Managing Director (Akwa Ibom)
3. Effiwatt Eyo – Executive Director Finance (Cross River)
4. Ebiere Udoh – Executive Director, Agric Services (Akwa Ibom)
5. Charles Akpan – Executive Director, Engineering (Akwa Ibom)
6. Dr. Ndom Abia – Executive Director, Planning and Design (Akwa Ibom)
SOKOTO RIMA BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara and Katsina)
1. Bello Wurno – Chairman (Sokoto)
2 Abubakar Mallam – Managing Director (Kebbi)
3. Kabiru Maigoro – Executive Director, Planning and Design (Zamfara)
4. Abubakar Ibrahim – Executive Director, Finance (Katsina)
5. Muttaka Jikamshi – Executive Director, Agric Services (Katsina)
6. Mansur Aminu – Executive Director, Engineering (Zamfara)
President Tinubu expects the appointees to use their wealth of experience to bolster the efficiency of the organisations, in line with the administration’s commitment to bettering the lives of citizens.
[Punch]
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has expressed disappointment over criticisms of the four tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly.
He criticized those opposing the bills, accusing them of failing to study their content before voicing dissent.
In his address during the presentation of the 2025 national budget to a joint session of the federal parliament, Akpabio stated, “It is disheartening that those who have not taken the time to understand these bills are the loudest critics. I urge all Nigerians, especially those in public office, to engage with these vital reforms thoughtfully.”
The bills, which include the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024, and Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024, represent the first comprehensive tax reform since Nigeria’s independence.
Akpabio noted, “These reforms will not only improve Nigeria’s revenue profile but also create a more conducive and internationally competitive business environment, transforming our tax system to support sustainable development.”
The Senate President praised the 2024 budget’s performance—50% for capital expenditure and 48% for recurrent expenditure—as a reason for extending its lifespan to June 30, 2025. He said, “The enabling law for this extension has already been put in place by this patriotic Assembly, ensuring we build upon the momentum.”
Akpabio emphasized the importance of oversight and warned Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to promptly defend their sectoral allocations, noting, “We will not condone breaches of the Constitution going forward.”
Highlighting the administration’s accomplishments, Akpabio commended President Bola Tinubu for bold decisions, including the removal of fuel subsidies and initiatives fostering economic stability. He celebrated the liberation of communities from terrorism, saying, “Today, no community is under the threat of terrorism. The reduction in kidnapping incidents and the neutralization of over 11,000 terrorists and insurgents is a testament to patriotism, strength, and determination.”
He also acknowledged improvements in foreign investment, infrastructure development, and social welfare programs, mentioning milestones such as increasing oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day, processing over ₦45.6 billion for student payments, and raising the national minimum wage to ₦70,000.
Akpabio urged Nigerians to endure the temporary hardships caused by economic reforms, likening the challenges to “the pains of childbirth.” He stated, “We are light-years away from where we began, though some rivers remain to be crossed.”
He concluded by rallying the National Assembly and guests with a chorus of “On Your Mandate We Shall Stand!” symbolizing support for the President’s vision.
[Vanguard]
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Femi Adesina, spokesperson to former President Muhammadu Buhari, said his principal did not remove petrol subsidy because he cared about its implications on “ordinary” Nigerians.
In a tribute to commemorate Buhari’s 82nd birthday on Tuesday, Adesina said the decisions of the former president were based on his love for “poor and underprivileged” Nigerians.
Adesina said the Buhari-led administration knew that that the country is spending huge resources on petrol subsidy.
The former presidential spokesperson described Buhari as “ore mekunu”, a Yoruba phrase that means friend of the poor.
Adesina said during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, Buhari told Zainab Ahmed, a former minister of finance, to ensure timely payment of workers’ salaries and pensions.
He added that Buhari understood the challenges workers faced during the pandemic and was determined to avoid the additional burden of unpaid salaries.
“The Big Elephant in the room. Removal of fuel subsidy. Did you think the Government didn’t know that the money guzzling monster had to be slain? It knew,” Adesina wrote.
“But who ensured that subsidies remained as long as it did? Buhari. And why? The people, the ordinary people. His argument was always simple:
“When oil sold for at least 100 dollars per barrel in the international market, rising even to as high as 140 dollars per barrel, what did the ordinary people gain? Nothing! So why should they be the ones to bear the brunt when oil prices fall?”
“By the time the administration ended, all, including the three main presidential candidates, were resolved that oil subsidies had to be removed.
“It was not unlikely that President Buhari shared the same conviction. But something that would throw society into a tailspin? He didn’t want to do it—for the sake of the ordinary people.
“Ordinary people gravitate towards Buhari, like bees to the honeycomb. That was why he always had a basket of millions of waiting votes, even before the first ballot was cast.
“He clobbered the ruling People’s Democratic Party in 2015, and won with even larger votes in 2019, despite all attempts to denigrate and demarket him. When you love the ordinary people, they love you in return, and stand with you through thick and thin.
“Now almost two years into retirement, get to Buhari’s house today. And you see the people milling around, just wanting to get a glimpse of the man.
“As he turns 82 December 17, 2024, I salute the Ore Mekunu, a friend of the poor, who still draws the people like magnet, even in retirement.”
THE PETROL SUBSIDY ISSUE
Buhari was sworn in as Nigeria’s president on May 29, 2015 and handed over to President Bola Tinubu on May 29, 2023.
In August 2022, the Buhari-led administration said the federal government will halt the costly petrol subsidy in June 2023.
Ahmed, former minister of finance, budget and national planning, said the 2023 budget only made provision for petrol subsidy payments from January to June 2023.
During his inauguration, Tinubu announced that the payment of petrol subsidy had stopped — a move that led to sudden hike in the price of the product as well as goods and services in the country.
[TheCable]
Being text of the 2025 budget presentation by President Bola Tinubu to a joint session of the national assembly on December 18, 2024.
My Fellow Nigerians,
1. In fulfilment of one of my constitutional duties and with unyielding commitment to rebuilding Nigeria towards ensuring that we remain steadfast on the journey to a prosperous future, I hereby present the 2025 Budget to the Joint Session of the 10th National Assembly.
2. On this day, before this hallowed chamber, I present to you the 2025 Budget at a time when our country is at a crucial point in its development trajectory.
3. The 2025 Budget Proposal again reinforces our administration’s roadmap to secure peace, prosperity, and hope for a greater future for our beloved nation. This budget christened, “Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity,” strikes at the very core of our Renewed Hope Agenda and demonstrates our commitment to stabilizing the economy, improving lives, and repositioning our country for greater performance.
4. The journey of economic renewal and institutional development, which we began 18 months ago as a nation, is very much underway. It is not a journey of our choosing but one we had to embark on for Nigeria to have a real chance at greatness. I thank every Nigerian for embarking on this journey of REFORMS and TRANSFORMATION with us.
5. The road of reforms is now clearly upon us, and as the President of this blessed nation, I know this less-travelled road has not been easy. That there have been difficulties and sacrifices. They will not be in vain. And we must keep faith with the process to arrive at our collectively desired destination.
6. We must build on the progress we have made in the past eighteen months in restructuring our economy and ensuring it is strong enough to withstand the headwinds of any future shocks of the global downturn.
7. The 2025 budget that I present today is one of restoration. It seeks to consolidate the key policies we have instituted to restructure our economy, boost human capital development, increase the volume of trade and investments, bolster oil and gas production, get our manufacturing sector humming again and ultimately increase the competitiveness of our economy.
8. We do not intend to depart from this critical path to strengthen the Nigerian economy. Just as I believe in the resilience of our economy to withstand the current challenges, I also strongly believe in the resilience of the Nigerian people. Again, I summon the unstoppable Nigerian spirit to lead us on as we work to rebuild the fabric of our economy and existence.
9. The improvements we witnessed in the 2024 budget have led us into the 2025 budget. The goals of advancing national security, creating economic opportunities, investing in our youthful population, infrastructure development, and national re-orientation form the core of the 2025 budget. But more than that, this will lay a solid foundation for Nigeria’s future growth trajectory.
CURRENT ECONOMIC REALITIES AND PROGRESS
10. Distinguished Senate President, Right Honourable Speaker of the House of Representatives, leaders and members of both Chambers of the National Assembly, I report today that our economy is responding positively to stimulus. Our objective is to further stimulate the economy through the implementation of targeted fiscal stimulus packages through public expenditures and specific non-inflationary spending.
11. The reforms we have instituted are beginning to yield results. Nigerians will soon experience a better and more functional economy.
12. Global economic growth for the outgoing year 2024 was projected at 3.2 percent, and against predictions, our country made significant progress.
* Our economy grew by 3.46 percent in the third quarter of 2024, up from 2.54 percent in the third quarter of 2023.
* Our Foreign Reserves now stand at nearly 42 billion US dollars, providing a robust buffer against external shocks.
* Our rising exports are reflected in the current trade surplus, which now stands at 5.8 trillion naira, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.
13. These clear results of gradual recovery, among others, reflect the resilience of our economy and the impact of deliberate policy choices we made from the outset.
2024 BUDGET PERFORMANCE
14. I am happy to inform this National Assembly that our administration attained remarkable milestones in implementing the 2024 Budget. In 2024, we achieved:
* 14.55 trillion naira in revenue, meeting 75 percent of our target as of the third quarter.
* 21.60 trillion naira in expenditure, representing 85 percent of our target, also in the third quarter.
15. While challenges persist, we improved revenue collection and fulfilled key obligations. The transformational effects of this on our economy are gradually being felt.
PHILOSOPHY OF THE 2025 BUDGET
16. The 2025 Budget seeks to:
* Restore macroeconomic stability.
* Enhance the business environment.
* Foster inclusive growth, employment, and poverty reduction.
* Promote equitable income distribution and human capital development.
17. Our budgetary allocations reflect the administration’s strategic priorities, especially in the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda and its developmental objectives.
2025 BUDGET OVERVIEW
18. The numbers for our 2025 budget proposal tell a bold and exciting story of the direction we are taking to retool and revamp the socio-economic fabric of our society.
* In 2025, we are targeting 34.82 trillion naira in revenue to fund the budget.
* Government expenditure in the same year is projected to be 49.7 trillion naira, including 15.81 trillion naira for debt servicing.
* A total of 13.08 trillion naira, or 3.89 percent of GDP, will make up the budget deficit.
19. This is an ambitious but necessary budget to secure our future.
20. The Budget projects inflation will decline from the current rate of 34.6 percent to 15 percent next year, while the exchange rate will improve from approximately 1,700 naira per US dollar to 1,500 naira, and a base crude oil production assumption of 2.06 million barrels per day (mbpd).
21. These projections are based on the following observations:
* Reduced importation of petroleum products alongside increased export of finished petroleum products.
* Bumper harvests, driven by enhanced security, reducing reliance on food imports.
* Increased foreign exchange inflows through Foreign Portfolio Investments.
* Higher crude oil output and exports, coupled with a substantial reduction in upstream oil and gas production costs.
KEY PRIORITIES: REBUILDING NIGERIA
22. Our budgetary allocations underscore this administration’s strategic priorities, particularly in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda and achieving its developmental objectives.
23. Highlights of the 2025 Budget Allocations:
* Defence and Security: N4.91 trillion
* Infrastructure: N4.06 trillion
* Health: N2.48 trillion
* Education: N3.52 trillion
24. As we embark on implementing the 2025 Budget, our steps are deliberate, our decisions resolute, and our priorities are clear. This budget reflects a renewed commitment to strengthening the foundation of a robust economy, while addressing critical sectors essential for the growth and development we envision.
Securing Our Nation:
25. Security is the foundation of all progress. We have significantly increased funding for the military, paramilitary, and police forces to secure the nation, protect our borders, and consolidate government control over every inch of our national territory. The government will continue to provide our security forces with the modern tools and technology they need to keep us safe. Boosting the morale of our men and women in the armed forces will remain our government’s top priority.
26. The officers, men, and women of our Armed Forces and the Nigerian Police Force are the shields and protectors of our nation. Our administration will continue to empower them to defeat insurgency, banditry, and all threats to our sovereignty. Our people should never live in fear—whether on their farmlands, highways or cities. By restoring peace, we restore productivity, revive businesses, and rebuild our communities.
Infrastructure Development:
27. When we launched the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, it was with the conviction that infrastructure remains the backbone of every thriving economy. Under this programme, we are accelerating investments in energy, transport, and public works. By leveraging private capital, we hope to complete key projects that drive growth and create jobs. We have already embarked on key legacy projects: Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway, which will have a huge impact on the lives of our people and accelerate economic output.
Human Capital Development:
28. Our people are our greatest resource. That is why we are making record investments in education, healthcare, and social services:
* Our administration has so far disbursed 34 billion naira to over 300,000 students via the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). In the 2025 Budget, we have made provision for 826.90 billion naira for infrastructure development in the educational sector. This provision also includes those for the Universal Basic Education (UBEC) and the nine new higher educational institutions.
* We are convinced that Universal Health Coverage initiatives will strengthen primary healthcare systems across Nigeria. In this way, we have allocated 402 billion naira for infrastructure investments in the health sector in the 2025 Budget and another 282.65 billion naira for the Basic Health Care Fund. Our hospitals will be revitalised with medication and better resources, ensuring quality care for all Nigerians. This is consistent with the Federal Government’s planned procurement of essential drugs for distribution to public healthcare facilities nationwide, improving healthcare access and reducing medical import dependency.
Revitalizing Agriculture:
29. Increasing agricultural production is central to our food security agenda, but insecurity has crippled this vital sector. We are supporting our farmers with funding and inputs to reignite productivity. Food security is non-negotiable. In this regard, we are taking bold steps to ensure that every Nigerian can feed conveniently, and none of our citizens will have to go to bed hungry.
30. Distinguished Senate President, Right Honourable Speaker of the House of Representatives, leaders and members of both Chambers of the National Assembly and fellow Nigerians, our 2025 budget proposal is not just another statement on projected government revenue and expenditures. It is one that calls for action.
31. Our nation faces existential threats from corruption and insecurity and suffers from many past poor choices. These challenges are surmountable when we work collaboratively to overcome them. We must rewrite the narrative of this nation together, with every leader, institution, and citizen playing their part.
32. The time for lamentation is over. This is a time to act. A time to support and promote greater investment in the private sector. A time for our civil servants to faithfully execute our policies and programmes. It is a time for every Nigerian to look hopefully towards a brighter future because a new day has dawned for us as a nation.
33. As your President, I remain committed and resolute to continue to lead the charge.
34. This 2025 budget proposal lays the foundation for peace, prosperity, and much needed hope. It is the plan through which a Nigeria where every citizen can dream, work, and thrive in safety can be achieved.
35. It is with great pleasure, therefore, that I lay before this distinguished Joint Session of the National Assembly the 2025 Budget of the Federal Government of Nigeria titled “The Restoration Budget: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity.
36. May God bless our Armed Forces and keep them safe. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is ramping up preparations to introduce its single currency, ECO, following a consensus reached during its 65th Ordinary Session.
This announcement was made in a communiqué released after the 66th ordinary session of the heads of state and government meeting, which was held in Abuja on Sunday.
Initially scheduled for launch in 2020, the rollout of the ECO was postponed due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The new target date for its introduction is now set for 2027.
The Authority confirmed that it has adopted selection criteria proposed by the High-Level Committee to identify member states that will initially adopt the ECO and those that may join later. In collaboration with the West African Monetary Agency (WAMA), it has tasked the Commission to integrate these criteria into the protocol for establishing the ECOWAS Monetary Union Agreement.
Additionally, the Authority endorsed the High-Level Committee’s recommendations regarding the financial aspects—costs, funding sources, and modalities—necessary for implementing the reforms and institutions required for the ECO’s launch.
Member states and central banks have been urged to take immediate action to fulfil their financial commitments to operationalise these institutions once the official launch date for the ECOWAS single currency is confirmed.
The heads of State also called on the High-Level Committee and the ECOWAS Commission to accelerate efforts to meet the established deadlines for creating and operationalising the institutions essential for the ECO’s launch.
Moreover, the Authority acknowledged the progress in executing the ECOWAS Agricultural Policy (ECOWAP) as part of efforts to enhance food security and nutrition in the region. Recognising the vital role of agriculture in the socio-economic development of member states, the Authority directed the Commission to implement regional strategies promptly focused on livestock farming, the Regional Rice Self-sufficiency Initiative, and the Comprehensive African Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Action Plan for 2026-2035.
The Authority also welcomed the strengthening of partnerships with technical and financial stakeholders and urged member states to collaborate with community institutions to achieve these regional food security initiatives.
The introduction of the ECOWAS currency is expected to facilitate trade and stimulate economic growth within the region.
[Leadership]
The Joint Tax Board (JTB) has called for the taxation of High Net-Worth Individuals (HNWI) as part of drive to bridge unfair tax practices in the country.
The board made the call in a communique signed by M.L. Abubakar , Chairman, JTB and Olusegun Adesokan, Secretary, JTB at the end of of its 156th meeting held on 10th and 11th December 2024 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Part of the communique read: “The Joint Tax Board notes that taxation of high net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in Nigeria has increasingly come under focus given the perceived unfairness in the distribution of the tax burden among this category of taxpayers in relation to other taxpayers.
“Therefore the Joint Tax Board recognises the need for improved intelligence gathering to Identify, track, and profile (HNWIs) in Nigeria and encourages regular review and evaluation of the effectiveness of adopted strategies and initiatives, and support needful adjustments where and when necessary, to ensure taxation of HNWIs in Nigeria,”
The communique also called for broad based collaboration with relevant national and sub-national agencies to strengthen the data collection and analytics capabilities of sub-national revenue authorities and foster international cooperation to improve tax compliance and curtall cross-border tax evasion to ensure that HNWIs are taxed fairly and transparently.
The board also noted the urgent need to accurately classify Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) disbursements, stamp duties, withholding taxes and other revenue items as tax, adding that “Such items should be credited to the internally generated revenue (IGR) accounts of the respective sub-nationals, rather than to the respective Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) accounts, for purposes of assuring accuracy in reporting, and appropriate accounting,”
The JTB also advocated public enlightenment and sensitisation prior to any introduction of new rates for driver’s licence and vehicle number plates to afford members of the public the opportunity to be well informed in advance while educating them on the rationale behind the decision.
[DailyTrust]