FEATURES
The United States offered a $10 million reward on Tuesday for information leading to the arrest of a Chinese man and co-conspirators wanted for hacking computer firewalls.
Guan Tianfeng, 30, is believed to be living in China’s Sichuan Province, according to the State Department.
An indictment charging Guan with conspiracy to commit computer fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud was unsealed on Tuesday.
The Treasury Department said it had imposed sanctions on the company Guan worked for, Sichuan Silence Information Technology Co Ltd.
Guan and co-conspirators at Sichuan Silence allegedly took advantage of a vulnerability in firewalls sold by UK-based cybersecurity company Sophos Ltd, according to the indictment.
“The defendant and his co-conspirators exploited a vulnerability in tens of thousands of network security devices, infecting them with malware designed to steal information from victims around the world,” Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco said in a statement.
Some 81,000 firewall devices were simultaneously attacked worldwide in April 2020, the indictment said, with the aim of stealing data, including usernames and passwords, while also attempting to infect the computers with ransomware.
More than 23,000 firewalls were in the United States, of which 36 were protecting “critical infrastructure companies’ systems,” the Treasury said.
“The zero-day vulnerability Guan Tianfeng and his co-conspirators found and exploited affected firewalls owned by businesses across the United States,” FBI agent Herbert Stapleton said.
“If Sophos had not rapidly identified the vulnerability and deployed a comprehensive response, the damage could have been far more severe.”
According to the indictment, Sichuan Silence sold its services and the data it obtained through hacking to Chinese businesses and to government entities, including the Ministry of Public Security.
Chidi Odinkalu, a former chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), says the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which secured electoral victory through protests in 2015, is now clamping down on demonstrations.
Odinkalu spoke on Tuesday at an event hosted by Global Rights, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), with the theme “Protest in Nigeria: A democracy that disqualifies dissent.”
The event was held on the X microblogging platform to commemorate International Human Rights Day.
“I’m not quite sure it’s within my pay grade to assess the performance of the Nigerian government on the right to protest. Partly because the right to protest is not given by the government,” Odinkalu said.
“It is a right that belongs to the people. What you do under the existing law and really in a republic is liaise with the state, notify the state, so that the state and its assets can lend you its assets for the purpose of protecting the protest, making sure that other people who wish to exercise similar rights can do so peacefully.
“Nigeria is currently led by people who specialised in protests over the years, from the president to several other people within his government.
“They protested their way to an electoral victory in 2015 as a political party, the APC, the All Progressives Congress. That’s for the benefit of the non-Nigerians in this conversation.
“And, you know, so to that extent, if you were talking about the past decade, the fact alone that people who were serial protesters came to power by political alternates is itself evidence that the right to protest in Nigeria, at least up to that point, was strong and reasonably well-respected.
“Not without some pushback, but reasonably well-respected and fruitful. Now, that said, it’s also the case that since then, since they came to power, they’ve done a heck of a lot to shut down the right to protest.
“And if you’re looking for physical evidence of that, you’ll find it in the venue in Abuja from which the Bring Back Our Girls protests convened.
“And the Bring Back Our Girls protest, by the way, was part of the infrastructure of protest deployed by the current ruling actors in Nigeria to gain public support in order to win political power in the country at the time they did.
“But after coming to power, they shut down that venue and they shut down those protests.
“And having not done anything to alter the fate of the girls who were lost or stolen or abducted, they then shut down those protests.
“And they have basically fenced off that site of protest and therefore made it unavailable for that.”
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) says its operatives have seized fake currencies worth N129 billion in Kano state.
In a statement on Tuesday, Muyiwa Adejobi, force spokesperson, said three suspects were arrested in connection with the fake currencies.
Adejobi identified the suspects as Nura Ibrahim, Muhammed Muntari, and Usman Abdullahi.
“Recently, in Kano, the police successfully recovered the sum of N129,542,823,000 in counterfeit currencies, with a breakdown of 3,366,000 in counterfeit US dollars, 51,970 in counterfeit CFA franc, and 1,443,000 in counterfeit naira,” the statement reads.
“This momentous achievement was recorded on the 8th of December 2024, at Gwale, Kano state, where police operatives acting on credible intelligence accosted one Nura Ibrahim ‘m’ and, upon a conducted search, discovered N392,000 counterfeit notes, $7800 counterfeit notes, and 5 different ATM cards.
“Further investigation led to the arrest of his accomplices, Muhammed Muntari ‘m’ and Usman Abdullahi ‘m,’ as well as the recovery of the other counterfeit currencies.”
‘THREE SUSPECTED GUNRUNNERS ARRESTED’
In a related development, Adejobi said police operatives arrested three suspected gunrunners along the Kaduna-Kano expressway.
The suspects are Buhari Suleiman, Jamil Yakubu, and Aliyu Abdullahi.
“The suspects were apprehended after the police operatives noticed their suspicious activities and approached them to question them,” Adejobi said.
“A subsequent search was conducted, which led to the recovery of 216 rounds of 9mm live ammunition and 1 round of AK-47 ammunition.
“Similarly, on the 8th of December 2024, police operatives in Kebbi state rescued 36 victims of kidnapping along Mairairai/Bena Road in Danko/Wasagu LGA who were returning from their respective farms.
“As a follow-up to the rescue, police operatives have visited the community to engage its members, debrief the rescued victims, and assure the people of its continuous readiness to ensure their safety and security.”
The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has denied reports suggesting it is opposing President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, describing the claims as “grossly misleading, false and malicious.”
RMAFC Chairman Mohammed Bello Shehu said that the commission is fully engaged in the reform process and is aligned with President Tinubu’s vision for an equitable and sustainable fiscal framework.
He also noted the importance of the proposed tax reform bills in addressing Nigeria’s fiscal challenges.
“We applaud President Tinubu’s strong commitment to repositioning Nigeria’s revenue base through bold initiatives. The proposed tax reform bills are a significant step towards integrating untapped revenue sources, enhancing Nigeria’s revenue-to-GDP ratio, and positioning the country favourably among nations with high fiscal performance,” Shehu said during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.
Shehu also spoke on concerns surrounding Value Added Tax (VAT) allocation and derivation and assured Nigerians of the Commission’s proactive involvement in ensuring that global best practices guide the reform process.
“As a responsible and patriotic institution, we have submitted a comprehensive memorandum that emphasises adherence to global best practices. This position aligns seamlessly with Mr. President’s vision,” he added.
Shehu condemned the spread of misinformation, emphasizing that the RMAFC has never opposed the bills but has instead provided professional advice to support their refinement.
He called on Nigerians to disregard baseless reports and urged the media to uphold ethical standards in their reportage.
“It is disheartening to note that, despite our explicit support for the proposed legislation, some individuals have chosen to peddle falsehoods for reasons best known to them,” he said.
“These inaccurate statements can undermine the ongoing efforts of patriotic Nigerians tirelessly working to support the President’s vision for the country.”
The Chairman further explained that the proposed tax reform bills are currently undergoing consultations, with inputs being sought from expert bodies.
He cautioned against misinterpretation or misrepresentation of professional advice during this process.
“The Commission is a critical stakeholder in Nigeria’s fiscal framework, and we take our responsibility to provide expert advice seriously. We have been working closely with the National Assembly to ensure the proposed legislation is robust, effective, and aligned with global best practices,” he said.
He noted that the proposed bills aim to promote fiscal equity, reduce tax evasion, and increase revenue generation—objectives that align with the RMAFC’s mandate.
However, he acknowledged concerns about potential impacts on businesses and individuals, assuring stakeholders that the Commission remains committed to addressing these through constructive engagement.
Shehu stressed the importance of relying on factual information to avoid unnecessary controversies and called on all Nigerians to support the president’s bold fiscal reforms.
“At this critical juncture, the President needs the support of all Nigerians. Let us work together to support his vision for a more prosperous Nigeria,” he noted.
[Guardian]
The House of Representatives has expressed concern over the ongoing cash crunch in commercial banks across the country, calling on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to address the situation, which has disrupted economic activities and imposed significant hardship on citizens.
The call by the House is coming on the heels of the directive by Vice President Kashim Shettima to the CBN and commercial banks in the country to swiftly resolve issues of cash scarcity and arbitrary charges by point-of-sale (POS) operators.
The CBN last week issued a directive mandating Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) to prioritise efficient cash disbursement to customers both over the counter and through Automated Teller Machines (ATMs).
The directive, which took effect on December 1, 2024, forms part of the apex bank’s continued efforts to enhance currency circulation and address cash shortages across the nation.
In a motion brought under Matters of Urgent Public Importance by Hon. Uguru Emmanuel, the House highlighted the economic and social implications of the cash scarcity, which has left many Nigerians unable to access funds even for basic needs.
Hon. Emmanuel noted that while economic growth relies heavily on consumer spending and business investment, the persistent cash shortage has become a major impediment to these activities.
The lawmaker recalled that the CBN, in its policy directive of December 21, 2022, set cash withdrawal limits of N500,000 for individuals and N5 million for corporate entities.
However, he observed that commercial banks have largely disregarded this policy, often limiting cash withdrawals to as little as N10,000 or nothing at all.
He further raised alarm over the apparent disconnect between commercial banks and Point of Sale (POS) operators, who seem to have unlimited access to cash, often selling it at exorbitant rates.
The lawmaker warned that unless the CBN takes immediate action, the situation could worsen, especially with the approach of the festive season, leaving businesses frustrated and citizens plunged into deeper economic hardship.
In its resolution, the House mandated the Committee on Banking Regulations to investigate the cash crunch in commercial banks and report back within one week.
The House directed the CBN to urgently address the cash scarcity if it is not responsible for the shortage.
Our correspondents report that Nigerians are increasingly finding it difficult to get naira notes for their daily transactions.
The situation is more severe in rural communities, where access to banks and other financial transaction platforms is limited.
In towns and cities, Point of Sale (POS) operators have gone overboard by charging customers more than expected to give them naira notes.
“I paid N500 to get N10, 000 at the Jabi Park,” said Jennifer Samuel, a civil servant.
“I need cash to pay for transportation to Mararaba because the taxi drivers don’t accept transfer, but it is not fair for me to pay N500 just to get N10, 000,” she said.
Abdulmumini Ibrahim, a businessman, said he paid N800 to POS operator in order to collect N20, 000 cash.
“It is true that cashless society is the way forward for any society that wants to grow but Nigeria is not ripe for that.
“Government must invest in infrastructure in order to convince people to accept the new norm. For now, they should make more cash available,” he said.
Apex bank tightens noose on fintechs
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has fined two of the country’s most prominent unicorns, Moniepoint and OPay N1 billion each in the second quarter of 2024, sources with direct knowledge of the matter told TechCabal.
The sources also confirmed that several other fintech companies were penalised, but that the two firms were the hardest hit, following a routine CBN audit of the fintech sector, which revealed compliance issues.
Daily Trust could not independently verify the claim despite many efforts.
When contacted, OPay said no such levy has been imposed on it.
Two sources familiar with the development told TechCabal that at least four other fintech companies were similarly penalised, though the details of these fines remain unknown.
The CBN has increasingly relied on fines to enforce regulatory compliance.
In 2023, Nigerian banks paid a combined N678 million in penalties. In October 2024, the CBN and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) imposed a N1.5 billion fine on ten commercial banks, including Zenith and GTBank, for various infractions in the first half of the year.
Until recently, Nigeria’s rapidly growing fintech sector largely operated without CBN interference. However, the rapid expansion of fintechs like OPay and Moniepoint, which now serve millions of users, has invited greater scrutiny.
OPay, for instance, claims a customer base of around 40 million, while Moniepoint, which processed N5.2 billion transactions in 2023, does not disclose specific customer numbers but is similarly large.
According to the report by TechCabal, beyond licensing, the CBN has also expressed concerns about the fintechs’ compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) processes.
In April 2024, the central bank imposed a two-month ban on customer onboarding for several fintech companies, including Kuda Bank and Palmpay, citing non-compliance with KYC standards. The ban forced fintechs to overhaul their onboarding procedures and commit to improving their compliance measures.
In a statement to TechCabal, OPay said: “We categorically refute the claims that OPay Digital Services was fined by the Central Bank of Nigeria to the tune of N1 billion for regulatory infractions. These claims are entirely false.”
When Daily Trust reached out to the North-east Regional Manager of Moniepoint, Alamin Jamil, he said: “I have seen the story on some online platform and it appears false to me. I don’t have all the details but I don’t think it is true.”
He promised to get back to our reporter once he gets the true position of things.
However, a senior management source with Moniepoint who prefers anonymity confirmed the fine but was uncertain about the actual amount.
CBN’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali, could not be reached for comment as of press time.
[DailyTrust]
The National Assembly has hinted at its plans to amend the 2023 Electricity Act.
It said the amended act will seek to recognise the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency as the sole regulatory agency to enforce technical standards and regulations in the power sector.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Power, Eyinnaya Abaribe, disclosed this plan at the fourth Edition of The Stakeholders Roundtable for the Enforcement of Technical Standards, Regulations, and Mandates held on Tuesday in Abuja.
Recall that last year, President Bola Tinubu assented to the 2023 Electricity Act as a replacement for the Electricity and Power Sector Reform Act of 2005.
The act approved the de-monopolization of Nigeria’s electricity generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity at the National level and empowered states, companies, and individuals to generate, transmit and distribute electricity.
It also enabled the states to issue licenses to private investors who can operate mini-grids and power plants.
However, against the law, some states approved the establishment of technical and safety standards carrying out technical enforcement in NEMSA’s areas of specialisation.
But speaking in his goodwill address, the senator representing Abia South, said the amended law will explicitly prevent states from enforcing technical standards.
He stated that the 2023 Electricity Act (2023 EA) does not grant states the authority to enforce technical electricity standards.
Abaribe stressed the need for federal law to supersede state law in this area, warning that a clear legal framework is necessary to prevent individuals from arbitrarily setting technical standards.
He said, “The national assembly wants things to be better in the power sector and I don’t think any Nigerian would be very happy with the power sector as it is.
“It’s our pleasure to be here at this critical roundtable that is focused on optimizing executive, legislative and judicial rule in enforcing technical standards and regulations in the power sector. This roundtable has been organized by NEMSA at a time when the use of substandard and very inadequate electrical equipment is considered one of the major culprits for frequent grid collapse in Nigeria.
“But I think to answer the issues, there is nowhere in that law that gives states the right to enforce standards of our electrical equipment, supplies, and everything. There is none.
“And so we think that, and I think we discussed it with the legal community last time, that we may need to, in trying to amend the 2023 electricity act, make it far more explicit that just like the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, that for a question of safety, Nigeria must have one standard. We cannot have multiple standards and NEMSA will be in charge.”
He further said with the decentralization of electricity regulatory responsibilities ushered in by the enactment of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Fifth Alteration) (No.17) Act and the Electricity Act, 2023, the challenge of enforcing electrical standards and safety at the sub-national levels of Government may even become more daunting for NEMSA.
“And so to make sure that state government don’t mischievously go to set up their standards and then we have a conflict, we will make sure that it will be stated explicitly in the law. And as you know, it’s an idea that a federal law would often supersede a state law.
“The centralisation of the regulatory responsibilities that were ushered in through the enactment of the Constitution of the Republic of Nigeria in 1999 and the Electricity Act now poses a big challenge to everyone, and especially NEMSA.
“What is the nexus between you and the standard organizations of Nigeria? But we already continue having all these types of issues, and I think that this roundtable should focus and look at how we can actively contribute our insights into how to make sure that everyone will adopt a particular standard,” he added.
Abaribe said that given the enormity of NEMSA’s mandate in enforcing electrical standards and ensuring safety in the NESI, the regulator, contractors, operators/licensees, customers and other critical stakeholders need to support NEMSA to deliver on this mandate, hence the justification for this multi-stakeholder roundtable.
The Senator also promised strict regulatory oversight to ensure the implementation of safety measures in the sector.
In his welcome remarks, the NEMSA Managing Director, Aliyu Tahir highlighted the indispensable role of the legislative and judicial arms in shaping and upholding regulatory frameworks for the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry.
He emphasized that NEMSA’s core mandate, established under the NEMSA Act 2015 and the Electricity Act 2023, revolves around enforcing technical standards, inspecting and certifying electrical installations, and ensuring the safety of lives and property.
“Our mission is to guarantee that electrical materials, equipment, and installations meet the required quality, standards, and specifications to deliver safe and sustainable electricity across Nigeria,” Engr. Tahir stated.
Tahir stressed that robust legislative oversight, judicial interpretation, and stakeholder engagement are critical to addressing the proliferation of substandard electrical materials and ensuring compliance across the power sector.
“The safety of lives and property within grid and off-grid networks hinges on strict adherence to technical standards,” he noted.
He also called for active participation and innovative contributions from attendees to resolve legal and regulatory challenges impeding progress in the sector.
This event reaffirmed NEMSA’s commitment to maintaining the highest safety and technical integrity standards while ensuring a reliable electricity supply for all Nigerians.
“Together, we can build a safer and more resilient electricity industry,” Engr. Tahir concluded, expressing gratitude for the ongoing support of the Legislature and Judiciary.
[Punch]
…As Seadogs frowns at increasing abuse of human rights
THE Magistrate’s Court sitting in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, yesterday, denied detained human rights activist, Dele Farotimi, bail.
Farotimi was arrested in Lagos and transferred to Ekiti State, where he was arraigned on a 16-count charge of defamation against Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, in his book, ‘Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System,’ where he accused Babalola of corrupting Supreme Court judges.
He pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The police prosecutor requested his remand in prison custody pending further investigation, while his counsel argued for bail on liberal terms, citing the presumption of innocence.
Counsel to the police, Samson Osobu, said Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN, who is the lawyer of the defendant, said a SAN does not have the right to appear as a representative of the defendant.
He reminded the court of the Magistrate’s Law of 2014 (as amended), citing a case of Abiodun Bamigboye vs COP with Appeal No CA/IP/2256C/2021, where an agreement was reached that no SAN has the constitutional right to appear or file any process in an inferior court.
On his part, Olumide-Fusika cited the Oyo Magistrate’s law, which explained that any qualified lawyer can appear in the court majorly if the matter is related to criminal cases and any suspect or defendant is entitled to any legal representative in court.
However, the presiding magistrate, Abayomi Adeosun, asked Olumide-Fusika to step down. At the same time, another lawyer, who is not a SAN proceeded, while the court decided based on the argument afterwards.
Taiwo Adeniji, who took over from Olumide-Fusika, applied for bail of the defendant, saying the defendant’s offences are bailable, according to section 36 (5) of the 1999 Nigerian constitution (as amended) and Act 6 of the African Charter and People’s Rights. He said the bail application is based on hearsay and lack of facts.
Osobu urged the court to review the bail application submitted before the court, stressing that the defendant doesn’t merit it and that the application is incompetent and irregular.
In his ruling, the presiding magistrate, Abayomi Adeosun adjourned the bail application to December 20 as a result of a prolonged disagreement between the two counsel and the lawyer of the defendant.
Support groups clash within court premises
Shortly after the court proceedings, some support groups clashed outside the courtroom, alleging the court of violating the rule of law.
While a pro-Afe Babalola group confronted the opposing party not to constitute any nuisance, Farotimi’s side pledged to stage the protest as soon as they get to Lagos state for the release of the human rights activist.
Farotimi’s plight poignant reflection of Nigeria’s pervasive impunity—Atiku
Reacting to the ongoing travail of Dele Farotimi, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, yesterday, described it as a sad reminder of Nigeria’s pervasive culture of impunity.
He said there was no better time to remind our leaders at all levels of their oaths of office, part of which is to protect the constitutional rights of citizens.
Atiku, who wrote on his tweet on his X (formally twitter) handle, said: “Dele Farotimi, a lawyer and tireless advocate for human rights, now languishes in prison custody not for any crime but for the supposed ‘crime’ of persistently speaking truth to power.
“His only offence lies in his unflinching commitment to exposing the truths that the government and its collaborators would rather remain hidden.
“More troubling still is the fact that he is detained and prosecuted under the guise of a law that does not even exist in Ekiti State.
“His plight serves as a poignant reflection of the pervasive climate of impunity and the blatant violation of citizens’ rights that has become all too common in Nigeria.
“Yet, perhaps the most alarming of all is the weaponization of the cyberbullying law, which is being used as a tool to harass, intimidate and silence dissenting voices in the opposition and the press.
“On this solemn occasion of International Human Rights Day, let us take a moment to remind our leaders at every level of government to honour the oaths they have sworn to protect and uphold the constitutionally enshrined rights of the people. Only through this commitment can we hope to nurture and strengthen our democracy..”
Seadogs Confraternity frowns at increasing abuse of human rights
Meanwhile, the National Association of Seadogs and Pyrates Confraternity, Dutse Deck have frowned at what they termed as heightening cases of human rights abuses in Nigeria and called for the government’s urgent actions in protecting the rights of citizens.
The confraternity particularly mentioned the arrest and detention of Dele Farotimi as well as what it termed a harsh bail condition given to him, saying such is a case of human rights abuse.
Marching through the highway in Jos, Plateau State in celebration of this year’s World Human Rights Day, the association sensitised citizens on their rights as human beings.
Speaking during the procession, Chairman of Typhoon Blasted Seadogs Forum, Jos Chapter, Charles Uwechia, said: “We are here to sensitise citizens about human rights because a lot of people don’t know their rights and how they are being abused. Our organization is humanitarian and issues of human rights abuses are coming up. A typical example is the issue of Dele Farotimi.
“The National Association of Seadogs believes that his rights are abused, putting him in chains; he is not a criminal; the matter is a civil one, and the bail condition of N50 million is outrageous. Governments should renege on some of these abuses and make some changes in the human rights approaches in the country.”
[Vanguard]
The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has appointed Ademola Adeyemi-Bero as the chairman of its board of governors for 2025.
Adeyemi-Bero was also appointed as Nigeria’s OPEC governor for next year.
Heineken Lokpobiri, minister of state for petroleum resources (oil), said Adeyemi-Bero’s appointment was confirmed at the 189th meeting of the OPEC conference.
In a statement by his media aide, Nneamaka Okafor, the minister hailed Adeyemi-Bero’s elevation as a testament to Nigeria’s active contributions to the global oil industry.
Lokpobiri added that the appointment provides Nigeria with a vital platform to advocate for balanced energy policies that benefit oil producers, consumers, and the global economy.
The minister also appreciated Gabriel Aduda, permanent secretary of the federal ministry of women affairs, who is also the outgoing Nigerian OPEC governor, for his exemplary service.
“Ambassador Aduda played an instrumental role in advancing Nigeria’s interests within OPEC and ensuring the country’s influential presence in global energy discussions,” Lokpobiri said.
According to the statement, OPEC also appointed Adeeb Al-Aama as governor of Saudi Arabia for OPEC, and as the alternate chairman of the board of governors for 2025.
“The OPEC conference brought together representatives from member countries to address significant issues, including reports from the secretary-general and the Economic Commission Board (ECB), and to deliberate on critical internal matters,” Okafor added.
“The conference also extended the tenure of His Excellency Haitham Al Ghais as OPEC Secretary General for another three years, effective August 1, 2025.
“Member nations commended his exceptional leadership and the Secretariat’s unwavering commitment to the organization’s objectives.”
At its last meeting, OPEC had extended Nigeria’s oil production quota of 1.5 million barrels of crude per day (bpd) to 2026.
The oil alliance also extended the level of overall crude oil production for OPEC and non-OPEC participating countries “in the DoC as agreed in the 35th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting, as per the attached table until 31 December 2026”.
[TheCable]
Gov Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has presented the sum of ₦605 billion before the State House of Assembly as a proposed budget for the 2025 fiscal year.
A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor, Fred Itua, Okpehbolo, while presenting the budget to the hallow chamber on Tuesday, said the Appropriation Bill is a 25 percent increase from the 2024 Budget.
Okpebholo said in the 2025 Budget tagged: ‘Budget of Renewed Hope for a Rising Edo’, 37% of this sum, amounting to N223 billion, will be dedicated to recurrent expenditure, while the remaining N381 billion, which represents 63%, will go into capital projects.
The Governor said the proposed Bill is the product of extensive consultations and will ensure accountability and transparency in governance, ensuring responsive service delivery to the people of Edo State.
He said, “With gratitude to God and a great sense of responsibility, I stand before the Honourable Members in this hallowed chamber to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill, which contains the revenue and expenditure proposals for the 2025 Fiscal Year.
“The proposed Appropriation Bill is a product of wide consultations. It will ensure accountability and transparency in governance for responsive service delivery to the people of Edo state.
“The 2025 Proposed Budget is designed to achieve the goals of my five-point agenda. Which are: Security, Infrastructural, Development, Healthcare, Food sufficiency and Education.
“We have also prepared this budget appropriation with the aim of achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government. We have condensed the programmes into the State Development Plan, which will remain the basis for my administration in the year 2025.
“Mr. Speaker, the proposed budget size for 2025 fiscal year is N605 billion. This is a 25% increase from the 2024 Budget. 37% of this sum, amounting to N223 billion, will be dedicated to Recurrent expenditure while the remaining N381 billion, which represents 63%, will go into capital projects.”
Governor Okpebholo said his administration’s plan for road infrastructure will make a huge difference in the sector. We have appropriated N162 billion for road development across the state.
“We are aware of the importance of connecting communities with motorable roads for rapid economic growth. Driving from one senatorial district to another, and from one community to another has become very difficult in the recent past.”
Okpebholo also stated that his administration will improve the roads that make Edo State the gateway to other parts of the country and enhance the status of Benin City, the state capital, from an ancient city to a modern one.
He said that, under education, his administration has kept the obligation to revisit the education sector and improve the deplorable condition of schools from primary and secondary to tertiary.
He stated, “It was in this regard that I flagged off the construction of the iconic Ramat Park Fly-over, which will be the first of such in the state.
“We are all living witnesses to the regrettable condition of our tertiary schools in the past eight years. My administration shall be providing N500 million monthly subvention to the Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, to ensure its revival from the ashes over time.
“We shall ensure continuous improvement in the administration of other tertiary institutions. The sum of N48bn is provided in the 2025 budget to accomplish this promise.”
On Security and Community Development, Okpebholo said his administration is also powered by the drive to bring peace and harmony to all parts of the State.
The Governor thanked the Speaker and honourable members of the state House of Assembly, noting that the major policy objectives of the 2025 budget were to improve the socio-economic conditions of our people.
He added, “We shall put our energies to ensure hostilities between communities are resolved. My administration has recently purchased 20 patrol vehicles to assist the security personnel in their work and we plan to purchase more in the coming year. The ban on the activities of the Edo State Vigilante has been lifted.
“On healthcare, N63.9 billion has been earmarked for 2025 fiscal year. We are currently reviewing the Health Sector Initiatives, to ensure that health is accessible and affordable. With the commitment to increase access to quality healthcare, N1.8 billion has been set aside for the Health Insurance.
“Agriculture plays a pivotal role in food production as well as revenue generation and job creation. It is, therefore, the desire of this administration to strengthen the agricultural sector, particularly in the areas of farm mechanization. We shall take special attention to the security of our farmers and ensure our farmlands are safe.
“Accordingly, the sum of N 4.5 billion has been proposed in the Year 2025 budget estimates for the agricultural sub-sector.
“Let me once again renew my deep appreciation to this Honourable house for the cooperation and support extended to this administration since inception.”
President Bola Tinubu has appointed a new Accountant-General of the Federation in the person of Mr Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi.
The appointee, who assumes the position in acting capacity, is a certified fraud examiner.
Ogunjimi’s appointment was announced by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
According to Onanuga, Ogunjimi’s appointment is effective immediately following the pre-retirement leave of the incumbent AGF, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein.
Madein’s retirement is effective March 7, 2025, after reaching the civil service’s statutory retirement age.
Quoting Onanuga, “In announcing Madein’s successor, President Tinubu ensures a seamless transition in the administration of Nigeria’s treasury and consolidates the implementation of the present administration’s treasury policy reforms.
“As a career civil servant and the most senior director in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), Mr Ogunjimi brings over 30 years of extensive experience in financial management across the public and private sectors.
“He has held significant positions, including Director of Funds at the OAGF and Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“A chartered accountant, certified fraud examiner, chartered stockbroker, and chartered security and investment specialist, Mr Ogunjimi’s academic qualifications include a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Accountancy and a Master’s in Finance and Accounting.”
Onanuga further quoted Tinubu as saying, “The Office of the Accountant General of the Federation is pivotal to our nation’s treasury management operations. Mr Ogunjimi’s wealth of experience and notable competence will ensure the continued effectiveness of this vital institution as we advance our economic reform agenda.”
He said President Tinubu commended the outgoing Accountant General of the Federation, Dr. Madein, for her dedication and selfless service to the nation.
More...
Nigeria Is Making Tremendous Progress’ – Tinubu Says As He Commissions Immigration Data And Command Centre
AFOLABI
President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday, commissioned the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Innovative Complex, Data and Command Centre (BATTIC) at the headquarters of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) located in Sauka, Abuja.
During the commissioning, President Tinubu stated that the commissioning is a dream come true and a further confirmation that the country is making progress under his leadership.
He also emphasized the need for Nigeria to embrace technology, innovation and a knowledge base economy as a pace-setter on the African continent.
It is understood that the project had been in the pipeline for about eighteen years before it was completed by the current administration.
“…This is the fulfillment of a dream. From the beginning of our administration we promised to deliver. Nigeria is making tremendous progress…” Tinubu said during the commisoning.
Naija News understands that the NIS Digital Hub signals Nigeria’s digital compliance with the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS), as stipulated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), providing a new, modern and technology compliant system.
According to presidential media aide, Sunday Dare, the system protects Nigeria’s borders and enhances national security.
The newly-commissioned system has an 8.3 gigabyte system and six components. The modern facility functions to detect suspicious travel patterns, pick out persons of interest, biometrics, and real-time 24-hour surveillance, amongst others.
The development makes Nigeria’s passport a security document with full compliance with international standards.
Search engine, Google has unveiled the ‘2024 Year in Search’ for Nigeria.
Crossdresser, Bobrisky, Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, Singer, Shallipopi and Ogechi lyrics topped the trends search.
Mr Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Communications and Public Affairs Manager, Google West Africa, said in a statement that the 2024 Year in Search showed what Nigerians were really interested in.
The Google’s Year in Search is an annual analysis that reveals the top trending lists and also what the world searches to see, learn, and do.
“The trending personality search in 2024 was led by Bobrisky, followed by Beta Edu; global search was Donald Trump, while search on death included Junior Pope, Herbert Wigwe, among other searches.” he said
‘’This year, Nigerians continued to demonstrate a strong interest in entertainment with movies like “A Tribe Called Judah,” “Treasure In The Sky,” and “Damsel,” topping the movie charts.
‘’The top television series that captured the interest of Nigerian netizens included “Supacell,” “My Demon,” and “Queen of Tears.”.
“In the culinary world, Nigerians explored diverse recipes, with the ‘Pornstar Martini recipe” leading the searches.
‘’In Nigeria, this year’s results show a continued interest in the political and economic landscape, with searches related to the U.S. elections, the new national anthem, and the national grid topping the news category in this order,’’ he added
The Magistrate Court in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has remanded human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, in prison custody.
Naija News reports that Farotimi was taken back to prison on Tuesday after the presiding magistrate, Abayomi Adeosun, postponed the decision on the bail application to December 2o, 2024.
This comes after the police counsel, Samson Osobu, argued that the bail application submitted by the defendant was incomplete and not properly filed.
This ruling, however, contradicts the decision of the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, which granted Farotimi bail on Monday.
Farotimi’s arraignment stems from allegations of defamation against Nigerian Senior Advocate, Afe Babalola, SAN, in his book, “Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System,” where he accused Babalola of corrupting Supreme Court judges.
Farotimi was arrested in Lagos and transferred to Ekiti State, where he was arraigned on a 16-count charge.
He pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The police prosecutor requested his remand in prison custody pending further investigation, while his counsel argued for bail on liberal terms, citing the presumption of innocence.
However, Farotimi’s arrest has sparked public outrage among Nigerians and political elites, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and the former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi.
An acclaimed pastor from Ajapa community in Ese Odo LGA of Ondo State, Terry Tinate Augustus, popularly called “Black" has been apprehended by security operatives in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Augustus, who was alleged to be a kidnapper, was arrested by the Amotekun Corps in collaboration with the Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Pipeline Surveillance and Waterways Security, Engr. Alore Omosuyi.
The suspect was arrested on December 8, 2024 following a tip-off from the Lagos State Commissioner of Police Special Squad.
The media team of the Office of the SA to the Governor on Pipeline Surveillance and Waterways Security, in a statement on Monday, December 9 said that Augustus, a key figure in a violent kidnapping syndicate, had been linked to multiple abductions, including a recent high-profile case in Lagos.
"On December 8, 2024, a joint operation between the office of the Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Pipeline Surveillance and Waterways Security, Engineer Alore Omosuyi and the Amotekun Divisional Headquarters in Ilaje Local Government Area led to the arrest of the notorious kidnapper, Terry Tinate Augustus, also known as “Black
"The arrest took place in Alape, Ilaje Local Government Area, following crucial intelligence provided by the Commissioner of Police Special Squad 1 in Lagos State.
"Terry, a key figure in a violent kidnapping syndicate, had been linked to multiple abductions, including a recent high-profile case in Lagos.
"The operation was prompted by the arrests of two members of the gang, Promise Mafimisebi and Monday Ikuesan, in Lagos.
"During questioning, Mafimisebi revealed that the gang had collected a ransom of $52,000 from the recent kidnapping of Isa Ososa in Lagos. He also disclosed that Terry Tinate Augustus, also known as Black, was a member of their group and hailed from Ajapa in Ondo State.
"The gang primarily operated in urban areas, targeting wealthy individuals for ransom. They used swift abduction tactics, often employing stolen vehicles to carry out their operations.
“Engineer Alore Omosuyi, with his strategic leadership collaborated closely with the Amotekun Corps Ilaje to orchestrate the successful operation. Their combined expertise in security surveillance ensured the swift apprehension of the suspect. ”
