•Dogara: Nigerians should remove cap of regionalism, religion

Chairman, Presidential Advisory Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, yesterday, said the federal government did not intend to withdraw the controversial tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly.

Speaking at a town hall meeting on “Tax Reform Bills: Charting the Way Forward”, which was hosted by a national television, Oyedele said the committee was rather ready to repeat engagements with stakeholders.

There had been growing calls by some northern politicians that the bills be withdrawn to allow for further engagements following the controversies they had generated since their introduction.

However, Oyedele explained that contrary to speculations, there were no provisions in the bills that allowed for tax consultants to take over tax collection responsibilities. He added that those duties will still be undertaken by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

Oyedele also denied allegations that the tax reform committee did not consult the state governors during its engagement process. He said while he agreed that more consultation might be required, it was not correct that they were not engaged during the process.

But Governor of Nasarawa State, Mr. Abdullahi Sule, said the position of state governors on the tax reform bills was totally misunderstood.

Sule said while the governors believed the bills would address issues of multiple taxes, as well as waive duties on agricultural equipment imports, the increase of VAT from 20 per cent to 60 per cent at point of generation and consumption were rather confusing.

He said all the governors were agitating was for the bill to be withdrawn to allow for further discussion.

Sule also emphasised that the reported disagreement did not amount to a regional controversy.

Nonetheless, Oyedele said now that the bills appeared to have generated renewed interests from stakeholders, who hitherto showed no interest, the committee was prepared to repeat the engagement process.

He said consultation will also continue even after the bills had been passed into law.

Commenting on allegations that the presidential tax reform committee did not consult the state governors, Oyedele said, “No, they won’t say we didn’t consult them. They are saying we need to consult more, which we agree with because consultation will never end. Even after passing the bills, we must continue to consult.

“We had two sessions with the National Economic Council. We had almost a whole day with the finance commissioners from all over Nigeria.

“We’ve had at least four sessions with the heads of the internal revenue services from all the 36 states plus the FCT. To six geopolitical zones, we identified one governor per zone and wrote to them to go and meet them where they are with their cabinet and discuss. We did some of that.

“Some of them did not have time for us. For those who had, who appreciate the government of Nigeria, they say, no, let’s even set up a committee between my cabinet and your team to work through the details.”

Oyedele stated further, “We worked for more than six months. We always welcome opportunities to engage. But it is not correct to say that we did not consult.”

He also refuted claims that the federal government appeared to be in a rush to get the bills passed into law.

He explained, “And we are not in a hurry, sorry because when you find yourself in a situation where we are now, where people are starving, there’s poverty in the land, some people can’t make ends meet. The time to cut their taxes.

“The time to provide relief. The time to create opportunity for them. The time to make our businesses thrive is now, not tomorrow. In fact, we should have done it yesterday, but now is the next best time.”

On assumptions that the tax reform might cost President Bola Tinubu a second term, Oyedele said, “I feel really very sorry for Mr. President. Even though he says nobody should feel sorry for him. I have to be honest with you, in this role, Mr. President has never for once asked my committee to make sure that we do something when we are done.”

The tax reform committee chairman said Tinubu had given them a free hand to do their job without interference.

He said it was “Nigerians from all over Nigeria, who came up with this analysis using data to make those recommendations.

“But they blame everything on him. He’s taking all of it in good faith. I hope that the reason why, if anything happens in 2027, will not be because of this bill.

“Because that way, we’ll be doing an injustice, not only to him, but to the whole of this country, Nigeria.”

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, called on Nigerians to be fair in their assessment of the tax reforms bills.

Dogara faulted the criticisms of the bills and said Nigerians should critically examine their benefits.

He said, “We should remove the cap of regionalism, the cap of sectionalism, the cap of religion and put on the cup of leadership because that is what will resolve the quarrel that we have.”

With inflation over 30 per cent and millions of Nigerians battling to afford basic commodities, critics believe the tax reform bills are coming at the wrong time.

Others say there is inadequate consultation over the bills.

But Dogara said the arguments were insufficient to throw the bills away.

He said, “I think one of the major objections is related to the issue of timing. I’ve heard this from leaders that I respect.

“But in leadership, when you talk about timing, the way I have heard them talk about is a tragic misconception of the notion of time itself because there’s nothing like the future, there’s nothing like the past.”

According to Dogara, “All we have is now. It is what you are doing now that will become your past. It is what you are doing now that will affect your future.

“I don’t even care if it was part of the president’s agenda. All I am bothered with as a leader is: is it the right thing?

“Secondly, I have heard about insufficient consultation. I had heard even legislators speaking as if they were spokespersons for some governors’ forum or others instead of looking at what is right and proffering solutions.

“Now, I don’t know why he (Taiwo Oyedele, who leads the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee and a panellist for the event) didn’t address some of these issues. But I believe in the course of our interface, he will address whether there was enough consultation with the governors.

“But I want to say this, at the state level, how many people do governors consult when they are making laws? I’m not challenging them. As a matter of fact, in some cases, state laws are written from the living rooms of governors.”

An Economist with SPM Professionals, Dr Paul Alaje, called for the harmonisation of how the country collected taxes, integrated them using intelligence, and ensured that everyone focused on their primary mandate, saying Nigeria would be better for it.

Alaje explained that over 60 government revenue agencies seemed distracted from their primary markets.

“They are chasing revenue to the detriment of the economy,” he said.

He recalled that agencies like Ghana Revenue Authority, Kenya Revenue Service, South Africa Revenue Service, and HMRC, collected social security.

According to Alaje, “If you go to Rwanda and you want to do your driver’s license, it is the revenue authority that collects it. Why? Because they have been set up to collect revenue. So they have the system, they have the structure, they have the training, they have the experience, they have the capacity. What we are doing in Nigeria is at the federal government level.”

Chief Executive Officer, Global Investment and Trade Company, Mr. Baba Yusuf, described the tax reform as one of the best policies undertaken by the Tinubu administration. Yusuf commended the presidential committee on tax reform for doing an excellent job.

He stated, “This reform is that which speaks to equity , speaks to data and has provided a platform for improvement going forward. Over 90 per cent of the vulnerable would be exempted from this tax. As a northerner, where about 70 per cent of the multi-dimensionally poor north are struggling under the vagaries of socio-economic headwinds, it should be pleasing to our leaders that where we have failed as subnational, there is federal intervention to provide that which has not been provided by state governors.”

Yusuf, however, noted the contentious issue of VAT in the bills, saying as a proponent of allocation by derivation, allocation by consumption, the rent-seeking transaction style of leadership will continue making people lazy and complacent.

He stated that leadership should be able to create value, innovate and protect, adding that the reform will reduce the inflow of the monthly allocation whereby governors go cap in hand.

“Some states in Nigeria are thriving because they created the value and added value,” Yusuf said.

Public analyst and writer, Micheal Chibuzor, described the tax reform exercise is an opportunity for the country to remove the loopholes militating against its wheel of progress.

“The VAT has been a major controversy because once you see people oppose the bill, they always turn to the VAT,” Chibuzor stated.

He said the country was about to realise N6 trillion in VAT collection, adding that states get most of their revenue from the bulk of what has been realised.

“That is why some states will feel very emotional about it,” he said, adding, “As a country, we should be ashamed that we are having a revenue that is less than $4 billion.”

Chibuzor listed the amount of revenue generated by some countries, saying Nigeria is using about $88 million to provide social services and infrastructure that will require money.

“Where do you get the money from? People will not want us to borrow because once we start doing that, we have to start funding the particular services,” he said.

He stressed the need for the country to reorganise its revenue streams through ensuring that individuals and businesses paid tax.

[Thisday]

Most Nigerian politicians claim to be Christians, with many invoking the name of God to appeal to Christian voters during electoral campaigns. It is not uncommon for politicians to subtly campaign in churches, especially those with large congregations, with some of the big five churches in Nigeria becoming their primary targets. Yet, when these politicians occupy various political positions, whether through electoral victories or political appointments, they often fail to live up to the values espoused in the Bible. Their actions, or lack thereof, seem to contradict the very principles they profess, raising the question: “If Nigerian politicians truly lived according to biblical teachings, would the nation not have experienced the good governance that has long been promised?”  

The Bible offers clear guidance on leadership, integrity, justice, and compassion, values that should shape the actions of anyone in a position of power. However, since the return to democratic rule in 1999, Nigeria has witnessed a leadership crisis marked by corruption, self-interest, and poor governance. Despite many politicians openly professing Christianity, the gap between the biblical principles they espouse and the realities of governance in the country remains stark. This dissonance highlights a fundamental problem: if those in power were to truly live by the Bible, the nation would have undoubtedly experienced a transformation long ago.

The reason for the foregoing expectation from Nigerian politicians in Christendom cannot be farfetched as The Holy Bible is universally acknowledged as a timeless guide to moral and ethical living. With its wealth of wisdom, spiritual teachings, and practical counsel, it has shaped individuals and societies for centuries. In Nigeria, where many politicians openly profess Christianity, the Bible’s principles should ideally translate into their leadership style. Yet, the gap between what the Bible preaches and the realities of governance in Nigeria raises critical questions.  

If Nigerian politicians truly internalized and lived by the teachings of the Bible as most of them are wont to claim, particularly ahead of an upcoming election, the nation would have long since experienced a transformation marked by integrity, justice, and compassion, principles at the heart of biblical teachings. Unfortunately, since the return to democratic rule in 1999, corruption, self-interest, and poor governance have been the defining characteristics of the Nigerian political landscape.  

The Bible is replete with instructions on leadership, service, and accountability. One of its core messages is that leaders are stewards of God’s people, entrusted with the responsibility to lead with integrity and selflessness. Proverbs 29:2 states, "When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan."*This verse underscores the direct relationship between the character of leaders and the well-being of their citizens.  

Jesus Christ’s teachings, especially in the Gospels, emphasize servant leadership. In Mark 10:43-45, He said, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve." Imagine if Nigerian politicians embraced this model of leadership. Would the nation still grapple with endemic corruption and mismanagement, particularly in the Southern part of the country where Christians are in dominance?  

Many Nigerian politicians openly identify as Christians, attending church services and making public declarations of faith. Yet, their actions often betray the core principles of Christianity. The Bible repeatedly warns against greed, dishonesty, and oppression of the poor, vices that plague Nigerian governance.  

In 1 Timothy 6:10, Paul warns, *"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil." This verse is particularly relevant in Nigeria, where many politicians prioritize personal wealth over public welfare. The country’s resources, meant for the collective good, are often siphoned off into private accounts. Meanwhile, citizens endure hardship, with poverty levels remaining alarmingly high despite the nation’s vast natural wealth.  

The Bible places a strong emphasis on justice and equity. Micah 6:8 encapsulates this ideal: "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."  

If Nigerian politicians adhered to this principle, the judicial system would not be riddled with corruption, and public policies would prioritize the welfare of the masses. Instead, the country has witnessed a widening gap between the rich and the poor, with those in power using their positions to perpetuate inequality.  

The failure to uphold justice has led to a lack of trust in the government. Citizens, particularly the youth, feel disillusioned, as promises of change and development remain unfulfilled. A nation guided by biblical principles would be one where the rule of law prevails, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their status, are treated fairly.  

The Bible calls for compassion and care for the less privileged. In Matthew 25:35-40, Jesus highlights the importance of helping the needy, equating such acts to serving Him. Nigerian politicians often pay lip service to poverty alleviation while implementing policies that exacerbate the suffering of the poor.  

The persistent mismanagement of resources meant for public welfare, such as palliatives during crises, reflects a lack of genuine concern for the people. If politicians truly lived by biblical teachings, initiatives aimed at reducing poverty would be executed with transparency and sincerity, leading to tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Nigerians.  

The Bible offers numerous examples of leaders who governed with integrity and faith. King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom, prayed for discernment to lead his people effectively (1 Kings 3:9). Nehemiah, a cupbearer turned governor, demonstrated exceptional dedication to rebuilding Jerusalem, prioritizing the welfare of his people over personal gain.  

These leaders understood that their positions were not for self-enrichment but for serving others. Nigerian politicians who claim to follow the Bible would do well to emulate such examples, aligning their actions with the principles of accountability and service.  

For Nigeria to experience the good governance envisioned in biblical teachings, there must be a fundamental shift in the mindset and actions of its leaders. Professing faith without corresponding deeds is, as James 2:17 states, *"faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."  

Churches and religious institutions also have a role to play. Instead of merely endorsing political figures, they must hold them accountable, reminding them of their spiritual obligations to serve the people with humility and integrity.  

Citizens, too, must demand accountability from their leaders, using their votes and voices to support those who demonstrate a commitment to biblical values in governance.  

If Nigerian politicians truly lived by the teachings of the Bible, the country would have experienced good governance since the advent of democracy in 1999. The Bible’s principles of justice, integrity, and compassion provide a clear roadmap for ethical leadership.  

The disconnect between profession and practice among many of Nigeria’s leaders underscores the need for introspection and genuine transformation. Until leaders align their actions with their professed faith, the promise of good governance will remain elusive. However, with a renewed commitment to living out biblical values, Nigeria can begin to realize its potential as a nation characterized by fairness, prosperity, and hope.  

In any democratic society, the Constitution reigns supreme, serving as the cornerstone for governance, accountability, and the protection of civil liberties. Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) is unambiguous in its directives: public officeholders must adhere strictly to its provisions to safeguard the integrity of our democratic institutions. Today, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, President of the Senate, and Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, stand at a pivotal juncture, where their fidelity to constitutional principles is under scrutiny.

 Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa of Edo State must vacate their legislative seats in the National Assembly as required by Section 68(1)(d) of the Constitution. Their continued occupancy of these positions constitutes not only a constitutional violation but a direct affront to Nigeria’s democratic ideals. This matter is a litmus test of the commitment of our legislative leaders to uphold the rule of law and justice.

 Key Constitutional Issues

1.      Violation of Section 68(1)(d):

Section 68(1)(d) of the 1999 Constitution mandates that any National Assembly member who assumes an executive office—whether as Governor, Deputy Governor, Minister, or Commissioner—must vacate their legislative seat. This provision is unequivocal. It exists to prevent the simultaneous holding of legislative and executive powers, thereby mitigating conflicts of interest. The continued presence of Okpebholo and Idahosa in the Senate and House of Representatives is a flagrant breach of this constitutional mandate.

 2. Obligation of Leadership Under Section 68(2):

Section 68(2) imposes a clear duty on the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House to declare such seats vacant upon receiving satisfactory evidence of an executive appointment. This is not a matter of discretion; it is a constitutional imperative. Chief Akpabio and Speaker Abbas are constitutionally bound to act decisively. Their failure to do so erodes the credibility of the National Assembly as a guardian of constitutional governance.

 Safeguarding Democratic Integrity

 3. Erosion of Representation:

Democracy thrives on accountability and representation. By refusing to resign, Okpebholo and Idahosa deny their constituencies rightful representation, thereby undermining the democratic foundations of the National Assembly. This is not merely a legal infraction—it is an affront to Nigeria’s democratic ethos, weakening public trust in the institutions designed to serve them.

 4. Immediate Call for Bye-Elections:

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must act promptly to conduct bye-elections for these now-vacant seats. Such elections are essential to restoring both the legitimacy and functionality of the legislative body. The ongoing retention of these positions by ineligible individuals establishes a dangerous precedent that must be addressed immediately to prevent further erosion of the rule of law.

 Implications for Democratic Governance

 This situation transcends the specific case of Edo State and speaks to the broader imperative of upholding the Constitution as the ultimate arbiter in governance. If this breach is allowed to persist, it risks entrenching a culture of impunity, where elected officials believe they can flout constitutional mandates without consequence. Nigeria’s democracy is resilient but not invulnerable. Its strength lies in the unwavering adherence to the rule of law by those entrusted with leadership.

 6. Global Scrutiny and Accountability:

 As Africa’s largest democracy, Nigeria is under international observation. The world is watching how this constitutional impasse is resolved. Chief Akpabio and Speaker Abbas, the choice before you are clear: honor your constitutional duty, declare these seats vacant, and permit INEC to organize bye-elections for the constituents of Esan Central and Ovia Federal Constituencies.

 A Moment of Constitutional Reckoning:

 History will judge the actions taken in this critical moment. Will you choose to uphold the Constitution and serve as stewards of justice, or will you allow the rule of law to be compromised under your leadership? The people of Nigeria, democracy itself, and the global community demand decisive action.

 The time to act is now.

 Fellow Compatriot,

Clifford Ogbeide

Public Policy Analyst

Lake District, Alberta, Canada

Swiss building materials giant, Holcim AG has announced the sale of its Nigerian business to China’s Huaxin Cement Co. in a deal valued at $1 billion.

This transaction involves Holcim’s 83.81% stake in Lafarge Africa PLC, and it is expected to close in 2025, pending regulatory approvals.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by Holcim on Sunday.

The company is divesting its stake in Lafarge Africa as part of its strategy to streamline its portfolio and focus on core markets.

“Holcim has signed an agreement with Huaxin Cement Ltd to sell its entire 83.81% shareholding in Lafarge Africa PLC, at an equity value of USD 1 billion on a 100% basis.  

The transaction is expected to close in 2025, subject to customary and regulatory approvals,” the company stated.

Details of the deal 

The divestment in Nigeria aligns with Holcim’s plans to spin off and list its North American business in the US next year.

• The company aims to capitalize on strong demand in the North American market driven by a housing shortage and regulatory pressures for sustainable construction materials.
• The deal forms part of the company’s broader strategy to streamline its portfolio by shedding non-core assets.
• The sale is in line with Holcim’s focus on optimizing operations and expanding in markets where demand for its products, such as roofing and energy-efficient building materials, is growing rapidly.

Previous disposals in Africa 

This sale is not Holcim’s first divestment on the continent. In 2021, Holcim closed the sale of its business in Zambia, representing a 75% stake in the company, to the Chinese cement group Huaxin for an enterprise value of USD 150 million for 100% of the company.

The deal was closed following approvals from Chinese and Zambian authorities.

Holcim’s CEO, Jan Jenisch, described the divestment as part of the company’s transformation towards becoming a leader in sustainable building solutions, enabling investments in growth opportunities, and praised Huaxin as a trusted partner suited to advancing the Zambian business.

“This divestment is another step in our transformation to become the global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions giving us the flexibility to continue investing in attractive growth opportunities. Huaxin has been a trusted partner for many years and we see the company as an ideal owner to further develop the business in Zambia.” 

The sale of Holcim’s business in Zambia follows the divestment of the Indian Ocean cluster, which was closed at the end of October 2021. Since 2019 the company has achieved over USD 3.1 billion in divestments.

What you should know 

• Holcim AG is a Swiss-based global leader in building materials and sustainable construction solutions.
• The company specializes in cement, concrete, aggregates, and innovative building products, with a strong focus on sustainability and recycling.
• The company has over 70,000 employees worldwide.

[Nairametrics]

Popular actress, comedian, and influencer, Chinonso Ukah, a.k.a. Nons Miraj, is set to launch a dating App to help singles discover genuine relationships.

This was contained in a statement issued and made available to journalists on Sunday by Nons Miraj’s Brand Manager, Becky Joe,

Joe said the Hunt Games dating App to be launched on December 4 in Lagos is designed for singles to find their perfect matches.

“At its core, this app is about bringing people closer together in a way that feels natural, exciting, and secure.

“We’re creating a space where users can meet people who truly align with their values and interests, without the superficial barriers.

“It is all about bringing singles together in a real and meaningful way. It’s set to be the ultimate go-to, for finding genuine connections.

“It is fresh, it is fun and it is here to help you find your perfect match in today’s fast-paced digital world,” the statement said.

According to Joe, the App combined cutting-edge technology with a user-friendly interface, adding that it will be available for download on both iOS and Android devices.

“Unlike traditional dating platforms, it incorporates unique features that foster authentic connections, including interest-based matching, privacy, and verified user profiles to ensure safety and transparency,” she added.

She said the App’s official launch would coincide with an exclusive event featuring live entertainment, and networking opportunities for singles and influencers alike.

Nons Miraj is the host of one of the biggest shows in Nigeria, ‘The Hunt Games Show’, which started in 2023.

She took part in the Next Movie Star, Nigerian TV reality show and became the first runner-up

She began her acting career in mid-2015, starring in the Nollywood horror film Quiet and began full time acting in 2017, after gaining admission into the university.

Nons Miraj has also featured in several other Nollywood movies including, Imperfect (2019) Pandora’s Box (2020), Our Wife (2019), The Third Wheel (2021) Hustle (2021), among others.

Bayelsa State government has expressed worry over the vandalisation of over 253 electricity transformers in different communities around Yenagoa, the state capital, as Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) is set to restore power to the state after four months blackout.

The entire state was on July thrown into darkness as vandals destroyed 132kv double circuit line, which affected over 19 electricity towers, in Ahoada, Rivers State that supply light to the state from the national grid.

The state Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, while giving an update on the power situation in the state during a press briefing on Monday, said though the vandalised power towers were federal government’s property, the state fixed them for the benefits of the residents.

She disclosed that the state government would soon inaugurate a task force that will be going round stores, shops and other places to uncover those selling second hand armoured cables.

She urged community leaders to take the responsibilities of protecting the government property in the areas against vandalsiation.

He said: “We are here again today to provide an update on the power situation. Like we all know, about four months ago, vandals actually destroyed three towers in Bayelsa State, initially 13 between Ahoada-Mbiama. Later another three went down, a total number of 16, and three in the Bayelsa end. For the past four months, we have been in darkness in Bayelsa. The towers are not the property of the Bayelsa State government, all those towers belong to the Federal Government, and they are the one that are responsible for maintaining those towers, but because of the situation we found ourselves, the state government has committed a lot of funds in repairing those towers.

“The update we are bringing is that the power towers have been completed. We will have power this week, we also observed that out of more than 500 transformers we have, about 253 have been vandalised again, some armoured cables removed. We have the responsibility of protecting the government property that we benefit from. Today (Monday), some parts of the state will have light, as soon as we hook up to the light, while some will not have light.

“The government will soon inaugurate taskforce to go round shops and anywhere the vandals are hiding. If we see anybody selling second hand armoured cable, they must be able to tell where they get it from.”

Also Speaking, the Managing Director/CEO of Bayelsa State Electricity Company Limited, Engr. Olice Kemenanabo, explained that the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) was able to restore power to Ahaoda and was working in Mbiama to connect Bayelsa State.

Regional Manager, PHED in Bayelsa State, Engr. Lawrence Emeyi, appreciated the state government’s effort in fixing the vandalised towers, stating that the company is ready for business in the state.

[DailyTrust]

Ebonyi State governor, Francis Nwifuru, has given workers in the state 72 hours ultimatum to resume work or face dismissal.

The governor also threatened to replace them after their dismissal from duty.

Nwifuru’s action followed a seven days warning strike embarked on by the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Ebonyi State wing.

Addressing newsmen on Monday in his office at the new Government House, Centenary City, Abakaliki, Nwifuru said the state government is not owing any worker.

He stated that the state government has approved N75,000 as minimum wage and has already started paying.

The NLC, Ebonyi State, had on Sunday commenced a seven days warning strike over the non-implementation of the new minimum wage in the state.

However, reacting to the strike, Nwifuru said, “If you don’t go to work, not only that I will not pay you salary, but I will replace you within 72 hours in your office.

“If I don’t see you in your office, consider yourself sacked. So far I am not guilty, I am not owing you.

“I am paying you what is supposed to be paid. And according to the agreement and the Constitution, I am not owing you. If you don’t go to work within 72 hours I will replace you.

“And I have called the state chairman of the Civil Service Commission. I have directed all the commissioners to go to their offices. All the agencies, all the departments of government must be in their office and record the people that come to work. And that is the people I will pay through table payment.

“I will pay you by the number of days you attended to your duty in your office. If you don’t want to come to work, you will forget about the state government.”

[DailyPost]

The Former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Kalu, has revealed that the Federal Government made a mistake not to have carried the National Executive Council (NEC), Nigeria Governor’s Forum, and the Council of State along in its tax reform bills.

Orji Kalu who spoke on Monday in an interview with Arise Television opened up on the controversial tax reform bills, saying the bills are very progressive and would bring back fiscal federalism in Nigeria.

New Telegraph recalls that Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, the Northern Governor’s Forum, the National Economic Council, and others have openly opposed the tax reforms.

The Senator representing Abia North, had faulted the initiators of bills for not carrying key stakeholders along saying, “As I told you before, the bill is very progressive. It will bring back fiscal federalism.

“Many senators have not been briefed. I think the federal government made a mistake. The initiators of the bills would have briefed the National Economic Council, Governors’ forum”.

Recall tax reform bills, including the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, were sent to the National Assembly for passage since October 2024.

The bills gained momentum last week when they secured second-reading passage at the Senate.

This comes after the Northern Governor’s Forum and National Economic Council called for the bill’s withdrawal.

[newtelegraphng]

Grammy-nominated singer Davido has shared how his father’s teachings on faith have profoundly influenced his life and resilience.

Speaking on a recent Rollingout podcast, Davido opened up about growing up in a Christian home where his father, a prominent businessman and church elder, instilled strong values of trust in God. 

According to him, among the lessons he learnt from his father, one stood out: never question God’s plans.

He revealed that this advice has been a cornerstone in helping him navigate life’s challenges, including the heartbreaking loss of his son, Ifeanyi. 

Davido credited his father’s wisdom for providing him the strength to endure difficult times.

Davido emphasised that his father’s lessons have taught him to trust in God’s plan, even in the face of adversity. 

He encouraged others to adopt a similar mindset, reminding them that God is always working in their favor.

He said: “My dad is very successful, but he’s an elder in the church. I grew up as a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. I attended a Christian college.

“I overcame a lot of challenges because of my dad. Initially, I did not understand, but now I’ve come to the realization. I was angry. Sometimes, I was like, ‘Why do bad things happen to good people?’ And my dad told me that you can’t question God.

“I was like, ‘What do you mean you can’t question God?’ And then a year later [after the death of my son, Ifeanyi], we had twins, the biggest album of my career came, and my first Grammy nominations came. Then it started to make sense. People go through different challenges, but just know that God has your back,” he said.

[TheNation]

Ruud van Nistelrooy said he was “astonished” by the number of offers he received following his brief spell as Manchester United’s interim manager, as he plans how to keep Leicester in the Premier League.

The Dutchman had four games in caretaker charge at Old Trafford – two of them against Leicester – after Erik ten Hag’s sacking at the end of October. He left the club when Ruben Amorim arrived last month.

Speaking at his first press conference since replacing the sacked Steve Cooper at Leicester, Van Nistelrooy said offers had flooded in.

“What happened after the games and the amount of interest, the options that suddenly appeared for me, and the offers that came in, I was a little bit astonished,” he said on Monday.

“It was four games, and I managed a full season at PSV Eindhoven, where I won the cup and the charity shield. I have been coaching with the (under) 19s and the national team (with the Netherlands), but it never received this kind of reaction from the football world.”

“It provoked these reactions, and I was happy with that – to have conversations with different parties and be able to make a decision that felt right for me. I am happy to be here.”

He said he had enjoyed his “intense” spell in the Old Trafford hot seat and had helped “steady the ship”.

“I really enjoyed it, being responsible, creating a connection with the team, with the supporters, and turning the momentum for the club for a while,” he added. “That’s our job, and it felt great to do it. Now, it feels even better to be in this position to do it again.”

Van Nistelrooy, whose first game in charge of Leicester is against West Ham on Tuesday, takes over a side just one point above the relegation zone after 13 games.

Caretaker boss Ben Dawson oversaw Saturday’s 4-1 loss at Brentford, the team’s third straight defeat.

Van Nistelrooy, a former striker for United and Real Madrid, said he was proud to have been given the opportunity to manage the former Premier League champions, where “expectations are clear”.

“It is a challenge we face, to maintain our place in the Premier League, and that is the big target for everyone,” he said.

The 48-year-old added: “In two days, it’s difficult to make many changes, but we have started making changes in style of play, training sessions, and structure, gradually building the foundation of a highly motivated team that can compete in this league.”

[Punch]