
FEATURES
The Nigeria Labour Congress has called for the withdrawal of the Tax Reform Bills submitted by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly, urging a more inclusive process involving key national stakeholders.
The union, in its New Year message to Nigerians on Tuesday, emphasised the need for the government to prioritise citizen welfare and address the rising cost of living in 2025.
The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, described the bills as controversial, particularly in northern regions, where they have been criticised as detrimental to economic growth.
He stated that creating a comprehensive national tax policy requires collaboration across all sectors to ensure transparency and acceptance.
In the statement titled ‘In 2025, hope is in our collective resolve’, the NLC urged the government to prioritise policies that improve access to food, healthcare, housing, education, transportation, and security.
It also called for enhanced worker welfare, stating that fulfilling these needs is fundamental to effective governance.
Ajaero emphasised the union’s commitment to negotiating an upward wage review to address the economic challenges faced by workers.
He stressed the need for compliance with the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act and pledged to engage the government in safeguarding workers’ welfare through fair wage adjustments.
The NLC also criticised the increasing use of force in interactions with unions, warning that such actions could disrupt industrial harmony.
“As we step into the year 2025, the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, extends warm New Year greetings to every worker and citizen across our great nation.
“The challenges of survival we have faced as a people must not hold us down. Instead, let us find inner strength to build a collective resolve to drive Nigeria out of the morass of underdevelopment that has held it captive for far too long.
“No external power will deliver us from the scourge of economic hardship and stagnation. It is only through our collective effort and determination that we can propel our nation forward,” the statement read.
It urged the government to engage in meaningful social dialogue and uphold agreements with trade unions to maintain peace in the labour sector.
Looking ahead, the NLC plans to host a national dialogue in Ibadan this January to foster collaboration on a new tax framework that supports national development.
The union expressed hope for constructive engagement with social partners to build a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
The statement added, “It is on this premise that we once again call on the federal government to withdraw its present tax bills before the National Assembly so that all key national stakeholders will be part of the process.
“As we embark on a national dialogue in Ibadan in January 2025, we want to join hands in co-creating a new national tax law that would enjoy wider acceptance and fulfil its purpose of propelling national development which we believe is the main objective of government.
“As we move into 2025, we urge the federal government to prioritise industrial peace by taking social dialogue seriously, pursuing pro-human progress policies, and respecting agreements with trade unions.
“We insist that governments at all levels must comply with the provisions of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act from the very beginning of the year. Furthermore, given the economic realities imposed by recent government policies, we shall engage the government for a wage review to safeguard workers’ welfare.”
The NLC reaffirmed its dedication to advocating for workers’ rights and ensuring that governance reflects the needs of citizens, urging unity and collective resolve to drive the country toward sustainable development.
[Punch]
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang granted absolute pardon to one prisoner, paid fines for 10 others, and had their various jail terms quashed as a part of his goodwill for the new year.
The Governor announced this in a state-wide broadcast on the new year day, as he welcomes citizens to what he termed as “a year of hope renewal, great opportunities and transformative progress,” for Plateau State.
He highlighted the efforts he has made in governance, commended President Bola Tinubu, citizens, and security personnel for their support, trust, prayers, sacrifices, and diligence, and expressed optimism that with the cooperation of all stakeholders, the State would prosper.
His words, “I welcome you to the year 2025 – a year of hope renewal, great opportunities, and transformative progress for our beloved State… Despite the hurdles we encountered, we made bold investments in technology and logistics to strengthen the surveillance and protection of our rural communities. Our efforts have already begun yielding significant results, as unprovoked attacks, once rampant, are steadily declining.
“While we have recorded progress, some communities continue to face security challenges, we will not rest until enduring peace is achieved across Plateau State. I extend my heartfelt condolences to all those who have suffered from attacks across the State. Your pain is our pain. We remain committed to partnering with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to end these avoidable tragedies.
“It is sad that some individuals have taken child trafficking as business to exploit our children. The government under my watch will take decisive action against those who indulge in this criminal activity. I encourage parents to take absolute responsibility for raising their children and safeguarding them against this menace.”
He listed the efforts made in sectors like transportation, agriculture, ICT, education, health, water and sanitation, urban renewal, energy, infrastructure, etc, and added, “In 2025, we are committed to building neighbourhood markets across the Jos – Bukuru metropolis while establishing modern community markets in each of the three Senatorial Districts.
“We will also focus on technological advancement. Plans are in place to revitalize the Nigerian Standard Building into a hub for tech-driven employment for Plateau’s youths. Our collaboration with Galaxy Backbone Limited will enhance internet accessibility and introduce e-governance initiatives for greater transparency and efficiency.
“The Plateau State ICT Development Agency (PICTDA) will also develop skills to position the State as an ICT hub. As we step into 2025, let us embrace the year as one of consolidation, sustainability, and fulfillment. Already, we are engaging in strategic discussions with Plateau youths, the business community, and elders to foster unity and progress.
“We are determined to revitalize and make functional all traditional institutions in the State to take charge of their domain. We appeal to ethnic nationalities and communities where vacuum exists to speedily remove all impediments to allow vacant stools to be lawfully occupied.”
On the offenders, he stated, “I am pleased to announce that fines were paid for various offenders who committed various offenses and their jail terms were quashed. They include: Moses Reuben – Absolute pardon. Payment of fines was done for Saleh Muhammadu, Mohammed Ado, Safa David, Timothy Sunday, David Yusuf, Abba Ahmed, Umar Adamu, Manasseh Dada, Na’Answan, and Sunday Joseph.”
[Vanguard]
President Bola Tinubu says his administration will establish a National Credit Guarantee Company before the end of the second quarter (Q2) of 2025.
Tinubu spoke on Wednesday during his New Year speech.
The president said his administration would consolidate and increase access to credit for individuals and critical sectors of the economy to boost national economic output.
“In 2025, our government is committed to intensifying efforts to lower these costs by boosting food production and promoting local manufacturing of essential drugs and other medical supplies,” he said.
“We are resolute in our ambition to reduce inflation from its current high of 34.6% to 15%. With diligent work and God’s help, we will achieve this goal and provide relief to all our people.
“In this new year, my administration will further consolidate and increase access to credit for individuals and critical sectors of the economy to boost national economic output.
“To achieve this, the federal government will establish the National Credit Guarantee Company to expand risk-sharing instruments for financial institutions and enterprises.
“The company—expected to start operations before the end of the second quarter—is a partnership of government institutions, such as the Bank of Industry, Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation, the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Agency, and the Ministry of Finance Incorporated, the private sector, and multilateral institutions.”
Tinubu said the initiative would strengthen the confidence of the financial system, expand credit access, and support underserved groups such as women and youth.
The president also said the company would drive growth, reindustrialisation, and better living standards for Nigerians.
[TheCable]
Zainab Bayero, daughter of the late Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, has raised the alarm about her family’s dire situation in Lagos, claiming they are stranded and without shelter.
In a heartfelt video shared on social media, Zainab revealed that she, her mother, and her younger brother have been struggling to make ends meet since her father’s passing in 2014.
The visibly distressed Zainab, speaking in a video less than five minutes long, said her family had nowhere to stay, adding that they were stranded in the Eko Hotel area of Lagos at 1 am.
She said, “This is me, daughter of the Emir of Kano on the street of Lagos, unsafe, stranded. No one cares if I live or die. No one owes me anything. That is fine but at least I deserve to feel safe, protected.
“My father left me with nothing — no education and home. I’ve tried to survive… I can’t go on anymore. This is what they’ve turned me to; they’ve turned me into an urchin, and a girl who had so many dreams.
“I’m a woman with nothing — no job, degree, home. I’m lost and stranded, no one to turn to, no family.
“The burden is too much on me. My mum and my junior brother depend on me. I don’t have any means to keep providing for them. That is why I ran away.”
She further expressed her frustration, stating that she had reached out to influential figures, but received no meaningful assistance.
She added, “I’ve spoken out in the media, I’ve pleaded with the president, the governor, the current Emir Sanusi, and their fathers.
“I’ve pleaded to care for a young woman who doesn’t want to be killed; who doesn’t want to die. But it’s obvious nobody cares if I live or die, and I want to end it because I can’t keep doing this.
‘There will be plenty of open doors’ – MFM GO, Daniel Olukoya Releases Powerful 2025 Prophecies
AFOLABIThe General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries (MFM), Dr Daniel Olukoya, has released powerful 2025 prophecies.
Olukoya released the prophecies at MFM’s cross-over service held at its camp ground, popularly called Prayer City.
Read prophecies below:
- It is definitely a year of strange battles.
- The unlucky will want to terminate the lucky ones.
- The oppressed will be fighting the free.
- The thief will be fighting the owner.
- It is a year of divine interruption.
- It is a year of unlimited deliverance.
- A year of tragedy for married men who like going around wit strange women, the marine world has injected into our midst women who are not women but from another world.
Umar Damagum, the acting chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), says there is a possibility that Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano state, will return to the opposition party.
Damagum spoke in an interview published on Tuesday by BBC Hausa.
Damagum’s remarks came days after Kwankwaso said he has no agreement with former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, ex-governor of Anambra state, for the 2027 presidential election.
Kwankwaso had previously criticised the PDP, describing it as a “dead party”.
However, Damagum said despite Kwankwaso’s criticism of the party, he is hopeful that the former governor will rejoin the PDP to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the next election.
Damagum said the PDP is ready to accept the return of any member who left the party.
“A person can express his opinion, but I want to remind him of the past when they left the PDP in 2015. If she (PDP) was not dead, then when they felt they had harmed her, then I see no reason to say she is dead now,” he said.
“And don’t forget that the PDP is the only party that can win elections if the incumbent must be removed.
“Kwankwaso’s frustrations are valid in some respects, but there is no better platform for him than the PDP.
“This party nurtured his political career and brought him to where he is today. We hope he will return to work with us to rebuild the party and confront this oppressive government.”
Kwankwaso has been in and out of the PDP since 2015. He has not returned to the party after leaving in March 2022.
Kwankwaso was the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the 2023 elections.
Damagum has been persuading former members of the PDP to return to the party.
In June, Damagum said he wants Obi, the standard-bearer of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, to rejoin the party.
Obi left the PDP for the LP in June 2022.
Fubara presents certificate of recognition to Asari Dokubo, three others as traditional ruler
AFOLABISiminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers, has presented a certificate of recognition to Asari Dokubo, a Niger Delta activist, as a traditional ruler in the state.
Fubara presented the certificate to Dokubo on Tuesday as the Amayanabo of Torusarama-Piri Elem Kalabari at the traditional rulers’ quarterly general meeting in Port Harcourt, the state capital.
The governor also presented certificates of recognition to three other monarchs.
They are Winston Odiye Alamina (Oputibeya XII, Amayanabo of the Koniju Kingdom), Eze Noble Friday Uwoh (Eze Igbu-Ehuda IV), and Ike Ehie (Eze Igbu Orlukwor).
In a post on X, Fubara said, “we reaffirmed our commitment to tirelessly work for the peace, progress, and prosperity of Rivers state”.
“I urged these esteemed leaders to use their positions to foster unity, promote peace, and strengthen harmony within their respective domains,” he wrote.
See photos below.
Linda Yaccarino, the chief executive officer (CEO) of X, formerly Twitter, has announced that the social media platform will launch a payment system called X Money in 2025.
In a statement on X on Tuesday, Yaccarino said 2025 will connect X users in ways never thought possible.
“In 2024, X changed the world. Now, YOU are the media!” she said.
“2025 X will connect you in ways never thought possible. X TV, X Money, Grok and more.
“Buckle up. Happy New Year!”
In April 2023, SLATE reported that Elon Musk, the owner of the microblogging platform, plans to make X the “everything app”.
X is expected to serve as an all-in-one solution.
On December 18, Musk said the total active users on X is one billion, but about 40 percent only visit the platform during major world events.
In April, Musk confirmed plans to charge new users to post on the platform, adding that it is the only solution to curb the issue of bots on the platform.
The billionaire said the proliferation of fake accounts occupies the available space for usernames, leading to the unavailability of many good handles.
According to Musk, new users will be able to post for free after three months.
Already, X has started charging new users in New Zealand and the Philippines $1 per year to access key features, which include the ability to tweet, retweet, like posts and reply to posts.
The acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Umar Damagum, asserted on Tuesday that PDP remains the strongest opposition party in the country, adding that any merger without the PDP would not unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
Damagum, who spoke in an interview with BBC Hausa Service on Tuesday, was reacting to comments on Monday by the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, who ruled out an alliance with the PDP and the Labour Party in 2027.
Speaking on Tuesday, Damagum said there would have been no Kwankwaso without the PDP as he had his political grooming in the PDP before he departed.
The PDP chairman dismissed Kwankwaso’s assertion that the PDP was dead, stating that the party remains the only opposition party still winning governorship elections across the country.
Damagum said, “People are entitled to their opinions, but I want to remind him (Kwankwaso) of the past. When they left the PDP in 2015, if the party didn’t die back then, during a time they thought they had weakened it, I don’t see why anyone would claim it is dead now.
“Let’s not forget that the PDP remains the only party capable of winning elections if you exclude the ruling APC.
“That said, there is no party better than the PDP for Kwankwaso. The party nurtured his political career and brought him to where he is today. We still hope he will return to work with us to rebuild our party and confront this oppressive government.”
Damagum highlighted the PDP’s resilience and continued influence, pointing to its lasting structure and widespread presence throughout Nigeria.
He stated, “The PDP is the only party that has consistently won elections without being in power. Senator Kwankwaso may have left, but how many states did he win with his new party? The facts speak for themselves.
“For over two decades, the PDP has remained steadfast, maintaining its identity and producing governors and lawmakers in every part of the country. Even if four parties merge without the PDP, they cannot win an election. We’ve seen this play out repeatedly. Where are those parties now? Even their alliances with other parties have not delivered the desired results.
“I admit that some of his claims about the challenges we faced back then are valid. As the Deputy National Chairman (North) at the time, my powers were limited, but we tried to resolve the issues. Unfortunately, those efforts fell short. He himself acknowledged this in previous interviews.”
…Asks govt to prioritise welfare, and well-being of citizens in 2025
…To step up the battle for a wage review
The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, yesterday insisted on the withdrawal of the Tax Reform Bills forwarded by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly for passage to enable all key national stakeholders to be part of the process.
Recall that the bills had drawn sharp criticisms from some parts of the country, especially the north, which saw them as anti-growth in the region.
It also implored the government at all levels to prioritise the welfare and well-being of the citizens in 2025.
In its New Year message to Nigerians, especially workers, the President of NLC, Mr Joe Ajaero, equally said organised labour would step up its battle for an upward wage review for workers to mitigate the high costs of living.
The message, titled “In 2025, hope is in our collective resolve,’’ read: “As we step into the year 2025, the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, extends warm New Year greetings to every worker and citizen across our great nation.
‘’The challenges of survival we have faced as a people must not hold us down. Instead, let us find inner strength to build a collective resolve to drive Nigeria out of the morass of underdevelopment that has held it captive for far too long.
“No external power will deliver us from the scourge of economic hardship and stagnation. It is only through our collective effort and determination that we can propel our nation forward.
“We must build inner strength to find this collective resolve across the length and breadth of our great nation. This is our civic responsibility—one we must embrace with unwavering determination.
“We call on the government at all levels to ensure that governance translates into real benefits for the people. The welfare of the citizens remains the primary justification for the existence of any government.
“Access to food and nutrition, better healthcare, quality housing, education, transportation and greater security of lives and properties, including the right to participate in decisions on how they are ruled, are the key expectations of the people and workers.
“Policies must, therefore, reflect transparency, honesty, and inclusivity, devoid of chicanery, nepotism, and strong-arm tactics.
“To create a thriving, democratic nation, we need a system built on the tenets of social dialogue, allowing critical stakeholders to participate actively in nation-building. Such inclusiveness will foster deeper ownership of government policies, ensuring stability and sustainability.
“It is on this premise that we once again call on the federal government to withdraw its present tax bills before the National Assembly so that all key national stakeholders will be part of the process.
‘’As we embark on a national dialogue in Ibadan in January, 2025, we want to join hands in co-creating a new national tax law that would enjoy wider acceptance and fulfill its purpose of propelling national development which we believe is the main objective of government.
“As we move into 2025, we urge the federal government to prioritize industrial peace by taking social dialogue seriously, pursuing pro-human-progress policies, and respecting agreements with trade unions.
“The increasing use of violence in engagements with workers and unions must cease, as it is a recipe for industrial disharmony. Trade unions which we are, as a pan-people organization, remain a committed partner in progress, striving for the development of Nigeria while protecting the rights of workers and citizens at large.
“We have a very large stake in our nation and are concerned about how our nation is run compelling us to thus seek to ensure that government policies give our nation optimal outcomes. While we therefore urge government to govern well it must understand that we are responsible to our members and this we cannot shirk.
“We insist that governments at all levels must comply with the provisions of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act from the very beginning of the year. Furthermore, given the economic realities imposed by recent government policies, we shall engage the government for a wage review to safeguard workers’ welfare.
“Our nation will become more productive when the incomes of workers are able to meet at least their basic needs, thus committing more to their work. In this, we believe there ought to be unanimity between us and governments at various levels. We look forward to fruitful engagement on this with our social partners as we move into 2025.
“Let us unite in our resolve to ensure a Nigeria where workers’ welfare, decent work environments, and the security of life and property are prioritized. Together, through collective effort and determination, we can transform our nation into one of progress, inclusion and shared prosperity.”
More...
‘We Remain Committed To Protecting Lives’ – IGP Facilitates Nigerians On New Year Celebrations
AFOLABIThe Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has extend heartfelt felicitations to all Nigerians and residents, wishing them a joyous and prosperous New Year.
In a statement released on Wednesday morning by Force Spokesperson, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the IGP acknowledged the resilience and determination of the Nigerian people amid challenges faced in the past year.
He emphasized the importance of community engagement and a people-centric approach to policing.
IGP Egbetokun reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s dedication to enhancing public safety and security through a more community-oriented and people-focused policing strategy.
He called on all Nigerians to actively participate in building a secure and peaceful nation by partnering with the Police, remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activities while maintaining open channels of communication with the Police and other law enforcement agencies.
The statement added: “As we usher in the New Year 2025, the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to protecting the lives and property of all citizens. Together, we can create a safer and more secure environment to promote growth in all sectors of our country.
“Wishing all a prosperous and fulfilling 2025!”
The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church Of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye has released prophecies for the year 2025.
Naija News reports that the renowned ‘Man of God’ revealed the prophecies at the Church annual across over service held at its Redemption City.
See prophecies below:
Individual:
1. The Lord says 2025 will be a landmark year.
2. The Lord said the day someone has been waiting for will arrive this year.
3. God says the wind that started blowing last year will continue to blow this year but stronger.
4. The Lord said some earthly helpers will be replaced by heavenly helpers this year.
5. The Lord said mockers will be louder and more aggressive but unfortunately many will not survive 2025.
6. The Lord says some towns and villages will shout victory at last.
Pastor Adeboye stated that more prophecies will be revealed at RCCG’s upcoming service on Friday.
He also added that he would not reveal prophecies for Nigeria as he would add them to the ones he would release for the whole world.
The cleric added that before September there will be abundance evidence that it pays to serve God.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has authorized the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) to hold Alhaji Bello Bodejo, the President of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, along with six other individuals for a period of 60 days.
This decision is intended to facilitate investigations into allegations of banditry and illegal possession of firearms.
Justice Emeka Nwite granted this detention following an ex-parte application submitted by DIA counsel I.O. Odom.
The case, designated as FHC/ABJ/CS/1875/V/2024, sought a two-month extension to ensure a comprehensive investigation.
The individuals apprehended in Nasarawa State on December 11 include Bodejo, Suleiman Abba, Umar Jibrin, Umar Bello, Muhammed Ayuba, Jibrin Baba, and Saidu Wakili.
After their arrest by Nigerian Armed Forces personnel, the suspects were placed in the custody of the DIA.
An affidavit presented by DIA investigator Bonny Ozegbe indicated that the suspects were implicated in an assault on a military installation in Nasarawa State. This attack, reportedly led by Bodejo, resulted in injuries to both soldiers and civilians, the theft of military weapons, and considerable damage.
Among the items recovered from the suspects were AK-47 rifles and ammunition. The affidavit also highlighted ongoing efforts to apprehend additional accomplices.
“Releasing the suspects could jeopardise the investigation and pose a serious threat to national security,” Ozegbe stated.
Justice Nwite approved the request, allowing the Department of Internal Affairs to retain custody of the suspects until March 3, 2025, at which point the case will be addressed.
In a related matter, Justice Mohammed Zubairu of the FCT High Court mandated the release of Bodejo from the custody of the Department of State Services, ruling that his prior detention without charges was unlawful.
‘Stop Being Mischievous, I’m Only Giving You Candid Advice To Avoid Bad Policies’ – Gov Mohammed Replies Presidency On Tax Reform Bills
AFOLABIThe Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has countered the allegation from the presidency that he is stirring up anarchy against the government of President Bola Tinubu over the Tax Reform Bills.
Governor Mohammed, in a statement on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, said he is only giving candid advice on the dangers of proceeding with bad decisions or policies.
Recalls the Bauchi Governor had described the Tax Reform Bills introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration as anti-North and a threat to the unity of Nigeria.
The Governor argued that President Tinubu‘s reforms seemed designed to benefit specific regions of the country while leaving the North at a disadvantage.
In response, the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, on Monday, said the statements coming from the Bauchi State Governor are unbecoming of his office and public status.
The presidential media aide urged Governor Mohammed to focus on resolving the developmental and poverty challenges in his state rather than issuing threats against President Bola Tinubu or making inflammatory statements against the government and President Tinubu and urged him to retract his words.
Reacting to the statement from the presidency, Governor Mohammed on Tuesday, said he was only giving advice based on his closeness to the people and an understanding of what the people want.
He said: “To start with, it is the height of mischief that Governor Bala Mohammed’s candid advice on the dangers of proceeding with bad decisions or policies that could worsen the plight of the masses, has been taken out of context, as a threat on the presidency. It would have been out of character for him to threaten the President or the presidency, an institution for which he has the greatest respect.”
“His remarks were essentially precautionary, given the deep-seated frustrations caused by the prevailing economic situation. and were aimed at ensuring that the proposed tax reforms are equitable, inclusive, and sensitive to the unique socio-economic challenges of the constituent parts of the country. His overall aim, as he has always done, was to foster dialogue and advocate for policies that protect the interests of ordinary Nigerians, particularly those in economically disadvantaged states.
“When Governor Bala Mohammed asserted that the Presidency’s attempt to shove the discredited tax reforms down the throat of Nigerians was a recipe for anarchy, he spoke from the position of someone who is closer to the populace and who carries the mandate of not only the over seven million people of Bauchi State but who also possesses an intimate knowledge of a very significant subregional group in the country. It is not by accident that his genuine reservation against the tax reforms coincides with those of some APC governors who have consistently warned against implementing the proposed reform in its present form. Therefore, it smacks of a disingenuous attempt at blackmail and a throwback to the insensitivity of the Government to single Bala Mohammed out for inquisition. Could it be because he is of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)?
“If the Presidency had genuinely desired an all-inclusive tax reform that would command the buy-in of various stakeholder and subnational groups in the country, it could have subjected a draft to discussion before railroading it to the National Assembly. It did not. Even when it was given a soft landing by the National Economic Council, NEC, a body headed by the Vice President of the country and which, by that token, was expected to command the respect of the President, its advice that the reform be taken back was blatantly disregarded. So, who is against dialogue?”
On the allegation of a high poverty rate in Bauchi, the Governor’s aide said the position of the presidency is both misleading and unfair.
He also highlighted the achievements recorded by his principal which have endeared him to the people.
“It is common knowledge that Bauchi State has faced systemic socio-economic challenges inherited over decades. Over time, these challenges have been compounded by our compatriots fleeing for their lives from the insecurity in other states as well as other existential challenges confronting them. Despite this, the Bala Mohammed administration has leveraged resources to deliver impactful development projects that have significantly improved the quality of life of the citizens. Contrary to the Presidency’s claims, Bauchi State under Governor Bala Mohammed has made remarkable progress in key sectors.
“Finally, the Bauchi State Government is satisfied that the people of Bauchi State stand firmly behind their governor, whose achievements speak volumes about his dedication to constitutionalism, progress and all-inclusive people-oriented service,” the statement concluded.