The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Nigeria Revenue Service unveils new logo as FIRS goes to rest 

    Nigeria Revenue Service unveils new logo as FIRS goes to rest 

    The Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), which has replaced the now-defunct Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has unveiled its institutional brand identity (logo) as part of efforts to reposition the country’s revenue administration structure.

    The agency came into operation following the signing of the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Act 2025 by President Bola Tinubu in June 2025, marking a major shift in the legal and operational framework governing tax administration in the country.

    Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday, the Executive Chairman of the NRS, Zacch Adedeji, said the launch of the logo and accompanying brand elements represents an important milestone in the evolution of Nigeria’s revenue administration framework.

    A statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dare Adekanmbi, quoted him as saying that “the unveiling of the NRS identity reflects a renewed commitment to a more unified, efficient, and service-oriented revenue system, one that is aligned with Nigeria’s economic transformation agenda and global best practices.”

    Adedeji noted that the new institutional identity “signals continuity of purpose, strengthened institutional capacity, and a forward-looking approach to supporting taxpayers and national development.”

    According to the statement, the NRS sees its renewed identity as part of a broader effort to build confidence and improve engagement with taxpayers across the country. It said, “The Nigeria Revenue Service remains committed to transparency, partnership, and service excellence. The unveiling of this new identity represents not an end, but the beginning of a strengthened relationship between the revenue authority and the Nigerian public — built on trust, clarity, and shared prosperity.”

    The event marks one of the first major public steps taken by the new agency since its establishment, with the NRS leadership positioning the reform as a foundation for deeper administrative efficiency and a modern, responsive tax system in support of national development.

  • New year: Make good resolutions, Ladoja urges Ibadan residents, indigenes

    New year: Make good resolutions, Ladoja urges Ibadan residents, indigenes

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja has urged both the indigenes and residents of Ibadan to make New Year resolutions that will promote peaceful co-existence, unity, socio economic rejuvenation, security of life and property, cultural values and monumental developments in all ramifications of life in Ibadanland 

    The New Year celebration message was sent to all indigenes and residents by the monarch while congratulating the people on seeing the end of year 2025 and happily entering year 2026 hale and hearty 

    In the New Year message as contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Chief Solomon Ayoade, the paramount ruler said, “I urge you all to be resolute on the progress and unity of Ibadanland so as to jointly realize the modern Ibadanland of our dream.

    “As for me, I have resolved to use the rest of my life to serve God and humanity as a good example for others to follow.”

    Oba Ladoja used the occasion to enjoin all Ibadan traditional title holders to key into his vision of moving Ibadan forward for the benefit of all especially in the areas of security, urban renewal, putting an end to land grabbing, resuscitation of moribund companies and preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.

    He commended the security operatives in Ibadanland as well as Oyo State for their improved efforts in securing the life and property of the people before and during the celebration, urging them not to rest on their oars. 

  • Budget Office cautions against speculation on tax reform acts

    Budget Office cautions against speculation on tax reform acts

    The Budget Office of the Federation has defended the credibility of Nigeria’s recently enacted Tax Reform Acts.

    In its defence, the Budget of the Federation cautioned against what it described as “governance by speculation and unverified claims,” following allegations that the laws were altered after passage.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, and signed by Dr. Tanimu Yakubu, Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, the Office said it had taken note of concerns raised by the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives, stressing that the sanctity of the law is central to constitutional democracy and goes beyond procedural formality.

    According to the statement, any suggestion that a law could be modified after debate, passage, authentication, and presidential assent without following due process would “strike at the core of the Republic” and undermine citizens’ right to be governed by transparent and stable laws.

    However, Tanimu Yakubu also warned that democratic stability is threatened when unconfirmed claims are amplified in the public space. “A nation cannot be governed by insinuation or sustained on circulating documents of uncertain origin,” it said, adding that public confidence, once shaken by speculation, is often difficult to restore.

    The Budget Office noted that both government and citizens share a common interest in truth, clarity and due process, pointing out that public finance depends heavily on trust in the legality and clarity of fiscal laws. It welcomed the decision of the National Assembly to investigate the allegations, describing institutional inquiry — not conjecture — as the appropriate response to claims of illegality.

    On access to the law, Yakubu acknowledged that Nigerians and the business community are entitled to clear and authoritative texts of all laws they are required to obey. It clarified, however, that the authenticity of legislation is determined by certified legislative records and official publication processes, not by informal or viral reproductions.

    The statement drew attention to the importance of separation of powers, warning that claims suggesting that Nigeria is being governed by “fake laws,” if not backed by established facts, risk eroding confidence in democratic institutions. At the same time, it said legislative scrutiny should not be treated as antagonism, noting that oversight is a constitutional duty.

    From a fiscal standpoint, the Office stated that legal certainty is essential for revenue projections, macroeconomic stability, budget credibility, and investor confidence. While acknowledging that it is not the custodian of legislative records, it observed that uncertainty around operative tax provisions directly affects economic planning.

    To restore confidence, the Tanimu Yakubu proposed several measures, including publication of verified reference texts in a single public repository, orderly access to Certified True Copies for stakeholders, clear public explanations where discrepancies are alleged, and strict alignment of all implementing regulations with authenticated legal texts.

    Responding to calls for suspension of the tax reforms, the Budget Office cautioned against allowing prudence to slip into inaction. It argued that properly implemented tax reform is necessary to reduce dependence on borrowing and inflationary financing, while easing indirect burdens on vulnerable citizens.

    “Where clarification is required, it must be provided; where correction is required, it must be effected; where investigation is required, it must proceed,” the statement said, adding that governance and reform should not be stalled by unresolved conjecture.

    The Office concluded by describing taxation as a democratic covenant that binds citizens and the state, insisting that compliance depends on transparency and trust. It called on political actors to protect institutions as much as positions, urging citizens and businesses to rely on verified sources and resist the spread of unauthenticated information.

    Tanimu Yakubu said the agency remains committed to fiscal transparency, institutional integrity, and reforms that advance national prosperity while safeguarding citizens’ rights.

  • TECNO Brings Immersive Fan Experience to AFCON 2025 with Pop-Up Stores and Interactive Zones Across Morocco

    TECNO Brings Immersive Fan Experience to AFCON 2025 with Pop-Up Stores and Interactive Zones Across Morocco

    Dual-city activation in Rabat and Casablanca showcases AI-powered experiences, creative workshops, and community engagement throughout the tournament.

    Following the opening of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, TECNO extended its tournament presence into public spaces across Morocco through a series of TECNO AI pop-up stores and fan zones in Rabat and Casablanca. Designed to bring AI-powered innovation closer to consumers, these spaces allowed visitors to experience how TECNO AI enhances everyday smartphone usage, from photography and gaming to productivity and entertainment. In total, the brand activated four experiential venues, two pop-up stores and two fan zones, with one of each established in both cities, creating a parallel rollout across Morocco’s major urban centres.

    The opening ceremony marked the starting point of TECNO’s AFCON “Power Your Moment” campaign, welcoming invited clients, guests, and partners as the tournament officially began. On the same day, the brand opened its physical spaces to the public, shifting from a symbolic brand moment to hands-on consumer engagement. 

    This approach enabled TECNO to stay connected with fans throughout different stages of the competition, offering repeated opportunities to discover TECNO AI features in real-life scenarios rather than limiting interaction to a single event. Special performances featuring live juggling ball demonstrations, alongside African song and dance, were presented on December 21 and are scheduled to return on January 18, creating a vibrant environment that blends technology, culture, and entertainment.

    TECNO AI Pop-Up Stores: An Immersive Fan-First Experience

    The TECNO AI pop-up stores, deployed in Casablanca and Rabat and located near Mohammed V Stadium and Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, respectively, were designed as immersive, consumer-centric environments rather than conventional retail spaces. Open for a limited period during the AFCON 2025 tournament, each location combined product discovery with interactive AI demonstrations, allowing visitors to test TECNO AI features directly across multiple touchpoints.

    Upon arrival, guests were welcomed in a reception area offering complimentary gifts and guided experiences, while simple interactive challenges encouraged participation and social sharing. By connecting physical interaction with digital engagement, the pop-up stores translated advanced AI technology into clear, tangible benefits that consumers could immediately understand and enjoy.

    At the heart of the TECNO AI pop-up store, the AI Experience Area brought TECNO AI to life through practical, real-world applications showcased on large-format screens and interactive stations. Visitors could test TECNO AI features hands-on, discovering how AI enhances everyday moments such as photography, content creation, and daily productivity. By placing consumers directly in control of the experience, the activation positioned TECNO AI not as a distant technology, but as an intuitive, accessible tool designed to make daily smartphone use smarter, easier, and more creative.

    A fashion-inspired clothing swap installation offered jerseys representing the 24 national teams competing in AFCON 2025, allowing fans to express tournament allegiances while engaging in a creative, participatory activity. Nearby, the Champions Road installation invited visitors to interact with a team matchup chart using magnetic team markers, encouraging predictions and photo sharing that extended the experience beyond the physical space.  

    The Product Experience Area provided hands-on access to TECNO’s latest smartphone lineup and connected devices, supported by on-site brand representatives. A customization station allowed visitors to personalize their phones with tournament-themed back stickers, creating tangible mementos linked to the AFCON experience. Photo areas throughout the pop-up stores offered opportunities to capture moments against branded backdrops, while a CSR Culture Wall highlighted TECNO’s community initiatives and long-term engagement in youth development and grassroots football across Africa.

    *TECNO Fan Zones: Bringing Fans Together Beyond the Stadium*

    Alongside the TECNO AI pop-up stores, TECNO’s fan zones were established in Casablanca and Rabat, located at Anfa Park and OLM Souissi, respectively, as open-access community spaces operating throughout match days. Freely accessible to the public, without purchase or registration requirements, the fan zones welcomed football supporters and passersby alike, emphasising shared experience over transaction. These spaces featured relaxed product discovery areas, free photo-taking and printing services, and interactive challenges designed to encourage participation.

    Skill-based football challenges, including juggling and heading activities, animated both the pop-up stores and fan zones, creating moments of spontaneous interaction and crowd engagement. Giveaway mechanics were tied to simple social media actions, while classification-style photo activities encouraged visitors to capture and share moments online without competitive pressure, prioritising participation and community visibility.

    By activating simultaneously in Rabat and Casablanca and maintaining a presence across match days with special programming on key dates, TECNO established a sustained physical footprint throughout the AFCON period. Rather than limiting its engagement to the opening ceremony, the brand positioned its pop-up stores and fan zones as ongoing touchpoints within the rhythm of the tournament, embedding technology, football and urban culture into everyday public life during AFCON 2025 in Morocco.

  • FG’s YEIDEP plans large-scale rollout, aims to create jobs, reduce insecurity

    FG’s YEIDEP plans large-scale rollout, aims to create jobs, reduce insecurity

    The Federal Government has reaffirmed  commitment to youth empowerment and economic inclusion, as preparations intensify for the full implementation of the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP) in 2026.

    This was disclosed at YEIDEP’s end of year meeting in Lagos which brought together key financial partners, ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), and service vendors supporting the programme.

    The convener, Comrade Kennedy Iyere said the programme, which commenced in late 2024, has completed its planning and system-development phase and is now positioned for large-scale rollout aimed at delivering measurable outcomes for young Nigerians.

    According to him, YEIDEP, implemented by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in collaboration with the Youths Off The Street Initiative (YOTSI), focuses on youth economic empowerment and de-radicalisation through targeted interventions aimed at addressing unemployment and social vulnerability.

    Presenting the progress report, Iyere, who is also YEIDEP Coordinator-General,  highlighted milestones recorded by the programme in 2025, including expanded partnerships, improved funding coordination, and strengthened implementation structures. 

    He said the engagement provided an opportunity to account for progress made, review challenges encountered, and align stakeholders on priorities for the coming year.

    The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, who served as Chief Host, commended partners for their support and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to youth-focused economic and social interventions.

    Olawande who was represented by his chief of staff, Muhammed Abdullahi noted that sustained collaboration with the private sector and development partners was critical to achieving long-term impact.

    He added that the past year had been deliberately devoted to planning, stakeholder coordination, and beneficiary onboarding, noting that effective preparation was critical to successful execution.

    Olawande disclosed that YEIDEP would be implemented in phases, beginning with an initial target of 20 million beneficiaries. Of this number, he said about 12 million young Nigerians have already been registered and onboarded, with verified account details.

    He added that the remaining eight million beneficiaries would be onboarded within the first quarter of 2026, completing the first phase, while preparations for a second phase would commence around mid-year.

    The Minister explained that the programme is designed to support youth participation across the agricultural value chain, stressing that beneficiaries would not be limited to primary farming activities.

    The initiative, he said, would enable young people to engage in farming, marketing, processing, and trading of agricultural products, depending on their interests and capacities, as part of efforts to strengthen food systems and create sustainable livelihoods.

    Olawande further clarified that the financial support to beneficiaries would be provided as grants rather than loans, with a minimum of ₦500,000 earmarked as start-up capital for each participant.

    He emphasised that the funds are intended to help young Nigerians establish viable agri-based enterprises and are not subject to repayment, describing the approach as a strategic investment in youth productivity rather than a welfare scheme.

    “2026 implementation phase is expected to mark a transition from planning to impact delivery, with the programme positioned to contribute to job creation, youth entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic growth.”

    Co-host of the event, Dr. Augusta Warrens (FCA), Director of Finance and Accounts at the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and Chairperson of the YEIDEP Finance Committee, underscored the importance of transparency, accountability and effective financial management in the execution of youth programmes.

    Dr. Warrens expressed gratitude to stakeholders, financial partners, and collaborators for their support in empowering Nigerian youth to reduce hunger, insecurity, and unemployment through food production and job creation. 

    She stated that the program has brought on board a significant number of Nigerian youth, with the aim of creating a conglomerate in 10 years.

    Dr Warrens who is also the Chairperson of the YEIDEP Finance Committee noted that the program’s next level involves implementing the 2026 Action Plan, leveraging the structures and processes established. 

    According to her, the ministry is gearing up for a donors drive to fund initiatives aimed at ensuring Nigerian youths are gainfully employed and are  creating jobs.

    Dr. Warrens emphasized that YEIDEP is focused on reducing hunger, insecurity, and unemployment among Nigerian youths, and is optimistic about achieving its goals. The event marked the rollout of the 2026 Implementation Action Plan, with more partners expected to join the initiative.

    On his part, The Special Advisor to the Kano State Governor on Youth and Sport Development, Hon.Sani Musa Denja, emphasised that the program’s goal is to take youths out of drugs and other vices, and make them rely on themselves. 

    He noted that some banks have already captured 300,000, over a million, 1.5 million, and almost half a million (500,000) youths, and the next target is to empower them through these banks.

    According to him, the first phase of the empowerment is expected to be completed by February 2026, with training and empowerment programs set to commence. 

    Denja expressed optimism about the program’s progress, stating that everything is coming in stages, and the focus is now on empowering the youths through the banks that have already captured them.

  • Obidient movement will follow Obi to ADC – National coordinator 

    Obidient movement will follow Obi to ADC – National coordinator 

    The national coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, has said that supporters of the former Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, will follow him to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). 

    The 64 year old former Anambra State governor and some of his supporters, including serving federal lawmakers, officially joined the ADC on Wednesday at a ceremony in Enugu State. 

    Tanko confirmed that mobilisation for Obi’s supporters to join the ADC has already commenced.

    Speaking with The Nation, Tanko said, “We have made our position categorically clear right from the beginning that wherever Peter Obi is going we are going with him. We will make a declaration soon. 

    “You can see at the declaration today that it was the Obidient Movement logo and that of the ADC. That is to tell you that we are stepping our foot where Obi steps his own foot. There is no ambiguity in that regard.”

  • 2026: Abiru urges Nigerians to consolidate reforms, back Tinubu for economic recovery

    2026: Abiru urges Nigerians to consolidate reforms, back Tinubu for economic recovery

    Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial district, Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, has called on Nigerians to consolidate the gains of ongoing reforms and sustain support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration as the country moves into 2026.

    In his New Year message to constituents and Nigerians at large, Abiru described 2026 as a year of “reflection, renewal and collective resolve,” urging citizens to deepen grassroots empowerment and expand opportunities for youths across the country.

    The lawmaker said the new year offers a fresh chance to build on progress already recorded, particularly in youth development and inclusive growth. 

    He reaffirmed his commitment to championing policies that promote economic stability and ensure development reaches “every ward, every community and every household” in Lagos East.

    “At the national level, encouraging signs of economic recovery are beginning to emerge,” Abiru said, attributing the trend to far-reaching reforms designed to stabilise the economy and lay the foundation for sustainable growth.

    He urged Nigerians to continue supporting President Tinubu as his administration implements critical policies aimed at strengthening the economy, improving infrastructure and expanding opportunities for citizens.

    Abiru also stressed the importance of unity, dialogue and tolerance in navigating national challenges, noting that Nigeria’s diversity remains a strength rather than a weakness.

    “Our diversity, when harnessed through cooperation, enables us to overcome challenges and build a more inclusive, just and forward-looking nation,” he said.

    The senator wished Nigerians peace, good health and renewed hope in 2026, expressing optimism that the new year would usher in greater progress and prosperity for the country.

  • Tinubu kept to agreement made to Rivers state – Wike 

    Tinubu kept to agreement made to Rivers state – Wike 

    Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), Nyesom Wike on Wednesday commended President Bola Tinubu for keeping to promises he made to the people of Rivers State while campaigning before the 2023 presidential election. 

    Wike compared Tinubu to Rivers State Governor, Similalaye Fubara whom he said has not kept to agreement made to his people. 

    Wike said this during a “Thank You Visit’” to Emele Local Government Area of Rivers. 

    He said Tinubu has put smiles on the faces of the people of Rivers, adding that they will always support him to achieve re-election. 

    The minister disclosed that part of the decision was to support Tinubu’s reelection for a second term and correct the leadership mistake in Rivers. 

    He stressed that no amount of money would change their course saying, “When they lose power they will know what they have done. 

    “Ask your governor what he told President Bola Tinubu during the meeting. If he did not say anything, I will. 

    “President Bola Tinubu has kept to agreement while governor did not keep to agreement. 

    “We have done it before and we are going to do it again. We are prepared; we have made a decision and we are not going back. I want you to be strong. Nobody will intimidate us”.

    He explained that the people that were entrusted with power in Rivers have been misled by money and power, adding that greed and lack of gratitude lead to downfall.

    He said he was in the community to thank Eleme people for standing firm with Tinubu; “and I want to say that I have not taken your support for granted.

    “In spite of all the troubles, Tinubu decided that I, a South South person, should be the Minister of FCT. It has never happened before. 

    “Also, the ongoing development in this area has never happened before until Tinubu became President”.

    Earlier, Chief Aforji Igwe, representing Eleme in Rivers Assembly, described Wike as a “fair, just and a man of integrity.”

    Igwe pledged the support of Eleme people to the minister due to his outstanding support to the people.

    Also, Chairman of Eleme Council, Chief Obarilormate Ollor, commended Wike for all the infrastructural intervention in the area during his time as governor of Rivers.

    Ollor assured Wike that the people were with him and ready to go wherever he asked them to go.

    He said the people were already aware of his directive for the reelection of Tinubu but awaiting the directive for the governorship election in 2027.

  • Security operatives rescue abducted twin teenagers in Edo

    Security operatives rescue abducted twin teenagers in Edo

    Combined security operatives have rescued 16-year-old twins who were abducted from their residence at Kalabar Quarters, Afokpella, in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.

    The twins were reportedly kidnapped after suspected assailants killed their father, Ilabeshi Okhale, and later demanded a ransom of N100 million.

    According to reports, the attackers forcibly broke into Okhale’s residence and inflicted machete injuries on him during the attack.

    Confirming the incident, spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, SP Eno Ikoedem, said the twins were rescued unhurt following a coordinated security operation.

    She explained that the injured victim was rushed to Ajie Hospital, where he was confirmed dead, and his corpse was deposited at the Santa Maria Mortuary in Jattu for autopsy.

    Ikoedem said a combined team of security operatives combed the surrounding bush, leading to the successful rescue of the abducted children without injuries.

    She added that the twins have since been reunited with their family, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the perpetrators.

  • Osun students pass vote of no confidence in Adeleke over 200% tuition fee hike

    Osun students pass vote of no confidence in Adeleke over 200% tuition fee hike

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council (JCC), and the National Association of Osun State Students (NAOSS) have criticised Governor Ademola Adeleke over the 200 per cent increase in tuition fees across state-owned tertiary institutions.

    The student bodies described the hike as insensitive and unaffordable, saying it has placed higher education beyond the reach of students from poor and average families, and consequently passed a vote of no confidence in the Adeleke administration.

    In a statement signed by the NANS/JCC Public Relations Officer, Comrade Ibraheem Alabi, the unions expressed disappointment with what they described as the government’s poor handling of students’ welfare.

    The statement said the administration had been characterised by unfulfilled promises, delays, neglect of students’ needs, and the politicisation of student welfare.

    According to the students, the 200 per cent increase in tuition fees has compounded the hardship faced by learners in Osun State–owned institutions, while basic welfare support remains absent.

    They also lamented the neglect of infrastructure in student communities and institutions, citing poor road networks and dilapidated facilities. As an example, they noted that the School of Health in Ilesa reportedly lacks a single tiled or motorable road.

    The unions further complained about the absence of bursary schemes, welfare structures, and tangible student support systems, despite claims that a large percentage of students were mobilised for Permanent Voter Card registration during elections.

    They recalled that previous administrations provided buses and other forms of institutional support to students’ unions, national bodies, and sister associations, which they said are now lacking.

    The statement added that after exhausting peaceful and legitimate means, the student bodies engaged the governor during his visit to Osun State University (UNIOSUN). However, they alleged that armed soldiers were deployed to the venue to intimidate students, rather than facilitate dialogue.

    They said the governor had promised to address their concerns within one week, but the promise was not fulfilled, further diminishing confidence in his administration.

    Consequently, the students said all leadership structures across Osun State, including Students’ Union Government presidents, indigenous chapter presidents, NANS, NAOSS, and sister associations, had collectively passed a vote of no confidence in Governor Adeleke.