The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Osun LG chairmen laud Tinubu over autonomy, present N20.6billion 2026 budgets

    Osun LG chairmen laud Tinubu over autonomy, present N20.6billion 2026 budgets

    Chairmen of Irepodun, Orolu and Olorunda Local Government Areas of Osun State, elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), on Monday presented proposed budgets totaling ₦20.6 billion for the 2026 fiscal year to their respective 11-member Legislative Councils.

    Adegoke Ogunsola of Irepodun presented a ₦5.8 billion budget, while Mr Abolade Adekunle of Orolu and Mr Kunle Kudaisi of Olorunda laid proposals of ₦7.9 billion and ₦6.9 billion respectively before their councils.

    In Irepodun Local Government Area, the budget presentation took place at the council secretariat in the presence of civil servants, party supporters and residents.

    Presenting what he described as the “Budget of Prosperity and Autonomy,” Ogunsola said the exercise underscored the capacity of local governments to independently manage and direct their affairs without interference from the House of Assembly or state governors.

    Ogunsola said, “We have proposed to appropriate N5,881,255,200.00 in the next fiscal year, 2026.

    The budget proposal is expected to be financed through the share of Irepodun Local Government: monthly statutory revenue allocations from the Federation Allocation Account and internally generated revenue from a number of taxable people and rates.”

    Earlier, in the welcome address of the Leader of the Legislative Council, RT. Hon Tajudeen Bakare, noted that autonomy of local governments granted by the Supreme Court courtesy President Bola Tinubu has come to stay.

    He also pledged that the legislative council will support the executive arm of the Irepodun local government area of Osun State.

    Also, the Chairman of Olorunda, Mr Kunle Kudaisi presented N6,950,000,000 budget before 11 members of Legislative Councils led by Muhideen Adeosun in the premises of the council as he highlighted that Capital Projects got 40%, 35% for Community Development, Overhead Costs 20% and Contingency Fund gulp 5% of the proposed appropriation bill.

    Similarly, Mr Abolade Adekunle, presented ₦7,975,300,580.75 2026 budget proposal of Orolu Local Government for your consideration and approval.

    He noted that the proposed budget is to deepen grassroots development, strengthen local governance, and improve the quality of life of the people.

    He said “budget is firmly aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR—an agenda that calls for fiscal discipline, inclusive growth, grassroots development, and people-centred governance.

    “At the local government level, Renewed Hope must translate into visible and measurable impact in our communities, and that is exactly what this budget seeks to represent. The 2026 Budget prioritises infrastructure renewal, primary healthcare, education support, environmental sanitation, youth and women empowerment, agriculture, and community security, while also ensuring that staff welfare and statutory obligations are met promptly.”

  • Okpebholo signs 2026 Appropriation Bill into law

    Okpebholo signs 2026 Appropriation Bill into law

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo has signed the 2026 Appropriation bill into law.

    Governor Okpebholo had last week, proposed a budget of N939 billion to the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA).

    The House of Assembly passed the budget into law after having an interface with relevant Commissioners and agencies.

    Speaking after signing the budget into law, Governor Okphebholo said the budget of Hope and Growth would move the state to greater height.

    He said, “Let me thank members of the Edo State House of Assembly and the Speaker for doing a good job. I want to thank you for being proactive towards this budget. It was quick and the members did a good Job. I believe this budget of Hope and growth will move Edo State to a greater height”.

    Speaker Blessing Agbebaku thanked the Governor for his developmental stride.

    He said the Governor has positively transformed the state,.saying the people benefitted from his practical governance style.

    Read Also: Edo Assembly asks Okpebholo to take possession of MOWAA, Radisson Blu Hotel

    “We are here today to present to you for your assent the 2026 appropriate bill passed into law by EDHA. The important sectors of the economy benefited from this budget for example Agriculture and work sectors of the Edo economy. These sectors are the two areas that Edo people will greatly benefit from. Food and infrastructure are critical for the well-being of the people.

    “History has been made by this administration as you are hungry to develop Edo State. Your administration is building the first and second flyover bridge in Edo State and you will be remembered by the people because these are landmark projects.

    “The governor is hungry to develop Edo State to enable Edo people live a comfortable and better life. This budget will perform 100 per cent and Edo people will see what you do with the funds we appropriate for you.

    “The money appropriated for you in the last one year is well spent and Edo people are better for it. We are presenting the year 2026 approved appropriation bill for your ascent”.

  • FHA director scores Osun education sector low, says Oyebamiji will overhaul system 

    FHA director scores Osun education sector low, says Oyebamiji will overhaul system 

    • …3,000 kids benefit Oyetola’s Christmas gifts 

    The Executive Director of Project Implementation at the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Remi Omowaiye, has rated Osun State’s education sector poorly, saying years of neglect have left the system in a state of decline.

    Omowaiye expressed confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for the 2026 Osun State election, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), would comprehensively reform and revitalise the sector if elected.

    The former Commissioner for Works made the remarks while speaking at the 6th edition of the Christmas Grotto, tagged Ilerioluwa/AMBO Santa Show, held on Tuesday at the Tinubu/Shettima campaign office.

    He lamented that his interactions with many children at the event revealed worrying gaps in learning, which he attributed to what he described as the poor state of education under the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

    According to Omowaiye, the responses from the children underscored the extent to which the education sector has been weakened over the past three years, stressing the need for urgent intervention and effective leadership to restore standards across the state.

    He said, “While I was interacting with the children from public schools, simple questions they don’t know, it is quite unfortunate, during the government of Adegboyega Oyetola, he employed 1,500 teachers but were sacked by Adeleke’s administration. 

    “Three years after, he is yet to recruit replacements. But I am sure that when Oyebamiji emerge as the governor, he will overhaul the system for the good of all.” 

    Speaking about the programme, he said “the grotto was held in four locations with 3,000 children to benefit. This is to put smile on the faces of our children.”

    Also, Osun State Coordinator of Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Chief Sunday Akere, lauded the initiative, adding that “this will further help us to deliver a million vote for our gubernatorial candidate and subsequently deliver 1.5million votes for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu.”

  • Tinubu celebrates cultural icon, Otunba Ajiboye, on birthday

    Tinubu celebrates cultural icon, Otunba Ajiboye, on birthday

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, Director General of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), on the occasion of his birthday, marked on December 24, 2025.

    In a congratulatory message issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President joined members of Ajiboye’s family, friends and political associates in celebrating the high chief, whose professional career spans media, advertising, public relations and tourism.

    Read Also: Tinubu celebrates cultural icon, Otunba Ajiboye, on birthday

    President Tinubu praised the NICO Director General for his steadfast commitment to promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity, noting that Ajiboye has remained a consistent advocate of cultural orientation and tourism as viable drivers of national unity and economic growth.

    The President also acknowledged Ajiboye’s role in championing cultural tourism initiatives that showcase Nigeria’s heritage while contributing to job creation and broader economic development.

    Tinubu prayed for the celebrant’s continued good health, renewed strength and increased wisdom as he sustains his service to the nation through cultural advocacy and institutional leadership.

  • FAAN warns Airport staff against extortion, harassment as festive travel peaks

    FAAN warns Airport staff against extortion, harassment as festive travel peaks

    The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has cautioned personnel across airports nationwide to shun extortion, intimidation and all forms of harassment of passengers as traffic surges during the festive season.

    The authority also called for strengthened collaboration among all agencies and service providers operating at the airports to guarantee a seamless and positive travel experience for passengers.

    In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Henry Agbebire, FAAN directed all officers and personnel to desist from soliciting or demanding money from passengers, avoid undue delays, profiling and obstruction, and discharge their duties with courtesy, professionalism and efficiency.

    Agbebire stressed that airports serve as the “nation’s first impression,” particularly during the “Detty December” period marked by a heavy influx of travellers.

    The warning comes amid a sharp rise in passenger movement, with many Nigerians in the diaspora returning home for the holidays alongside increased international arrivals.

    In line with the expectations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, FAAN urged all stakeholders — including the Nigeria Customs Service, Immigration, Port Health, Quarantine, Department of State Services, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Aviation Security, ground handlers and other service providers — to work in harmony.

    He singled out the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, as critical gateways requiring exceptional service delivery during the period.

    “This is a season to demonstrate the culture of excellence Nigeria seeks to entrench,” Agbebire said. “Our returning citizens and visitors deserve warmth, order and reassurance from arrival to exit.”

    He emphasised the collective responsibility of all stakeholders to transform airports into “havens of joy, safety and efficiency” throughout the festive season, adding, “Together, let us make Nigeria proud.”

  • Hainan’s Customs Closure: China’s Major Step Toward Global Openness

    Hainan’s Customs Closure: China’s Major Step Toward Global Openness

    On December 18, 2025, the Hainan Free Trade Port officially launched its island-wide customs closure, a move that has attracted global attention. Contrary to what the term might suggest, this initiative does not isolate Hainan but signifies a strategic step toward higher levels of international openness and cooperation.

    This policy is a regulatory innovation under Chinese customs. By implementing the principle of “open first line, controlled second line, and free flow within the island,” Hainan becomes a special customs zoneessentially “domestic territory but outside customs,” aligning with international free port standards. The “open first line” facilitates the free movement of goods and people between Hainan  and other countries, with most products enjoying zero tariffs. The “controlled second line” ensures careful oversight of goods entering mainland China to maintain market stability. “Free flow within the island” allows unrestricted movement ofproduction factors. This model, similar to those in Singapore and Dubai, aims to reduce trade costs and improve efficiency through institutional innovation, not isolation. For global businesses, the opportunities are evident. After the customs closure, the proportion of zero-tariff products increased from 21% to 74%, covering over6,600 tariff lines, including most production equipment and raw materials. This significantly reduces import costs for foreign companies investing in Hainan. Moreover, products processed in Hainan and sold to mainland China enjoy tariffexemption if their added value reaches 30%, providing foreign enterprises    easier access to China’s vast domestic market. The data confirms this appeal: over the past five years, Hainan has utilized ¥1.025 trillion in foreign investment, with an average annual growth of 14.6%, and attracted 8,098 new foreign enterprises from 176 countries and regions. More international giants are choosing Hainan as a strategic hub for global operations.

    Hainan’s customs closure also introduces a new model for global trade cooperation. Amid sluggish global economic growth and rising protectionism, China’s move represents a commitment to institutional openness and alignment with high-standard international trade rules. For example, Hainan has adopted the shortest negativelist for foreign investment in China, expanded market access in healthcare, finance, and the digital economy, and established an international commercial dispute resolution mechanism with arbitrators from over 40 countries and regions. This creates a stable and fair business environment for foreign companies, fostering mutually beneficial cooperation rather than one-sided concessions.

    At a time of growing anti-globalization sentiment, Hainan’s customs closure demonstrates China’s commitment to free trade. It will not only transform Hainan into a new hub of open economy but also contribute to the positive restructuring of the global trade order. For international observers and businesses, understanding the open nature of this policy and seizing its opportunities is far more meaningful than being misled by its literal interpretation. Hainan’s customs closure is not an end but a new beginning for deeper cooperation between China and the world.

  • My grudge against Wike, by Makinde

    My grudge against Wike, by Makinde

    Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday openly expressed concerns over his former political ally and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, accusing him of actions capable of undermining the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Makinde, who spoke during a live media chat held at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, said his political rift with Wike stemmed from the latter’s alleged promise to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 by “holding” the PDP for him—an arrangement he said he strongly opposed.

    According to the governor, the issue became apparent during a meeting in Abuja involving President Tinubu, Wike, and other political actors, where he claimed to have confronted the FCT minister over the declaration.

    “I was in a meeting with President Tinubu, Nyesom Wike, and others when Wike volunteered to hold the PDP for Tinubu ahead of 2027, and I was in shock. Wike can support the president in 2027, but I will not,” Makinde said.

    The Nation reports that Makinde and Wike were both members of the defunct G5 group of aggrieved PDP governors, which emerged after former Vice President Atiku Abubakar emerged as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, despite calls for the presidency to be zoned to the South.

    Makinde alleged that Wike’s alignment with President Tinubu was a calculated move aimed at weakening the PDP, particularly in Oyo State, ahead of the next general elections.

    Speaking further, the Oyo governor took a swipe at Wike’s political background, contrasting it with his own professional career before venturing into politics.

    Displaying a certificate linked to a $1 million contract, Makinde said he had achieved financial success at the multinational level long before Wike began his legal career.

    “At the age of 29, in 1997, I had already made $1 million working with oil companies. At that time, Wike may have just finished law school, and his next job was as a local government chairman,” Makinde said.

    He maintained that his stance was driven by principle, insisting that he would not be part of any arrangement that compromised the PDP’s independence ahead of the 2027 elections.

  • Tin Can Island Port Customs surpasses 2025 revenue target by N51.8bn

    Tin Can Island Port Customs surpasses 2025 revenue target by N51.8bn

    The Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has exceeded its 2025 revenue target by N51.84 billion, recording a total collection of N1.576 trillion following intensified trade controls, streamlined processes and sustained stakeholder engagement.

    The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, disclosed this during a press briefing at the Command on Tuesday, attributing the impressive performance to institutional reforms, improved internal coordination and enhanced compliance across all cargo categories.

    “For the 2025 fiscal year, the Tin Can Island Port Command was assigned a revenue target of N1,524,669,999,478.52. I am pleased to inform you that as at the time of this report, the Command has generated total revenue of N1,576,507,651,601.84,” Onyeka said.

    He noted that the figure represents an excess of N51,837,652,129.32 over the annual target, describing the achievement as a reflection of discipline, professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty by officers of the Command.

    According to him, bulk cargo, general merchandise and used vehicle imports remained the Command’s major revenue drivers, accounting for a significant share of cargo throughput at the port.

    “Our major revenue contributors remain bulk cargo, general merchandise and the importation of used vehicles, which constitute a substantial volume of trade passing through the port,” Onyeka stated.

    He added that the Command ensured full government revenue collection through diligent cargo examination and strict adherence to established customs procedures.

    Onyeka explained that a key focus of the Command’s 2025 strategy was the elimination of revenue leakages and operational bottlenecks that had previously hindered cargo clearance and heightened compliance risks.

    He disclosed that the deliberate reduction of multiple and unnecessary alerts significantly improved turnaround time at the port while maintaining effective customs control.

    “One of our key focus areas in 2025 was the elimination of revenue leakages and operational inefficiencies. By streamlining Alerts and strengthening internal coordination, we improved efficiency while maintaining effective control,” he said.

    Beyond internal reforms, the Command sustained regular engagement with importers, licensed customs agents, terminal operators, and shipping companies to create an enabling environment for legitimate trade.

    “We also made conscious efforts to create an enabling environment for legitimate trade, and to this end, the Command sustained regular and meaningful engagement with stakeholders,” Onyeka said.

    The Customs boss stressed that exceeding the revenue target did not translate to relaxed enforcement, noting that intelligence-driven operations led to significant seizures of prohibited and improperly declared goods during the year.

    He said, “Beyond revenue collection, the Command remained firm on its enforcement mandate. These seizures are a clear reminder that while we facilitate trade, we will not compromise national security, public safety, or economic integrity.”

    He added that officers remain fully mobilised to sustain collections and compliance.

    “Let me state unequivocally that the attainment of our annual revenue target does not in any way signify a relaxation of operational standards or enforcement activities.”

    Onyeka credited the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr. Adewale Adeniyi, for providing strategic leadership that underpinned the Command’s performance.

    “I wish to place on record my deep appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR psc (+), for his exemplary leadership, clear strategic direction, and consistent institutional support,” he said.

    “His commitment to professionalism, automation, and constructive stakeholder engagement has provided the solid framework upon which the achievements of this Command have been built.”

    The Area Controller also commended Customs officers, stakeholders, and the media for their roles in strengthening compliance and transparency at the port.

    “As we move forward, the Command remains steadfast in its commitment to consolidating these gains, deepening transparency and contributing effectively to the growth of the Federal Government’s fiscal policies,” Onyeka reassured.

  • N58.47tr 2026 budget scales second reading in Senate

    N58.47tr 2026 budget scales second reading in Senate

    • …adjourns plenary till January 27

    The Senate on Tuesday passed for second reading the sum of N58,472,628,944,759.00 as Appropriation Bill for the 2026 fiscal year.

    This is even as the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, indicated that the Senate would adjourn plenary till January 27, 2026.

    Read Also: Senate passes N43trn 2024, 2025 Appropriations Act repeal, re-enactment Bills

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had last Friday laid the 2026 Appropriations Bill before a joint session of the National Assembly for consideration and approval.

    The resolution of the Senate followed its debate on the general principles of the 2026 Appropriations Bill during plenary.

    Details shortly…

  • Why we took over primary healthcare from local councils, by Fubara

    Why we took over primary healthcare from local councils, by Fubara

    • …governor inaugurates zonal hospital

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Tuesday, said that his administration took over primary healthcare from the local government to show the priority it attached to healthcare.

    The governor said the decision was yielding its desired results and recalled that the people suffered greatly when the responsibility was left to the local councils.

    Fubara spoke during the inauguration of the Ahoada Zonal Hospital, a secondary healthcare facility built to serve residents of the Rivers West Senatorial District.

    He said the government made the right decision to embark on major hospital projects across the state.

    He said, “What we are doing here is to support the local government, as some of these responsibilities are primarily theirs. Primary healthcare was left with the LGA, and we suffered a lot, and we said that if we have to get results some of these responsibilities need to be taken away. I am happy that taking that responsibility away is yielding positive results.”

    The governor said his administration had already inaugurated the Ahoada and Bori Zonal Hospitals, disclosing that other facilities in Degema and Etche would be completed and inaugurated before the end of March next year.

    He noted that beyond road and housing projects, the government was making huge investments in education and quality healthcare as key pillars of effective administration.

    Fubara said all ongoing projects in Ahoada would be completed and new ones initiated as requested by the people of the area.

    The governor commended the people of Ahoada for their support and appealed for continued cooperation in advancing the development of the state.

    Read Also: Fubara donates N100m to launch 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem

    He called on all stakeholders in the area to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make his re-election easier in the state.

     Speaking about the project, Fubara said, “This project is not just one that we inherited, but also my pre-decorated inheritance. The question is, we have this quality of service that we have to render to the people of Ahoada and, in extension, to Abua, Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni, and Emohua, the closest neighbour. So rather than one running to BMH, if you can get the attention of a teaching Hospital, the closest will be this one.

    “So, you can see how important this project is. We didn’t make any mistakes to dive into this complicated project. Not just this, we have a similar one in Bori, Degema, Omoku, and in Etche. To the glory of God, that of Bori has been commissioned and put to use, and this one today will definitely be put to use after commissioning.

    “By the grace of God, before the end of March 2026, we will be commissioning that of Degema and Omoku. What are we trying to tell our people? Your health is important to us; your business survival is crucial.

    “No matter how much you have, you also need good health to enjoy that wealth. What we have done here today is to tell you that the well-being of our people is the top priority of this government. I want to thank the Ministry of Health for its commitment to this project.

    “You have shown me so much love in the face of everything. You have stood by me, your sons and daughters have stood by me. They made a lot of sacrifices, and some are suffering because of me. So what is the little thing that I can do? It is to make sure that I continue to support the people of the Ekpeye kingdom.”

    On Tinubu’s reelection, Fubara said, “Let me finally appeal to every one of you. We have a responsibility that we have all taken upon ourselves. And that responsibility is to make 2027 easier for the President, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu, in Rivers State. 

    “And making the election of 2027 easy, these are the things that we are doing so that our people will say if this government can be this responsible and concerned, we have every reason to listen to them and support them.

    “So please, our message here is that we know that you have the machinery on how to do it. Start work so that 2027 for Mr President will be an easy ride in this Orashi region.