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  • DHQ: Kwara attackers aimed to enforce extremist ideology 

    DHQ: Kwara attackers aimed to enforce extremist ideology 

    The Defence Headquarters said terrorists that attacked Woro and neighbouring communities in Kaiama local government area of Kwara State are seeking to impose their twisted beliefs through terror and intimidation.

    In a statement by the Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military high command expressed shock over the incident and mourned with the families of those who have lost loved ones in the brutal attack, and other similar ones across the country.

    It commended the indomitable Nigerian spirit exhibited by various Nigerian communities that have been targeted by terrorists, noting that this “remarkable spirit was again exhibited by the resilient people of Woro and neighbouring communities who stood firm against violent coercion and refused to abandon their way of life and constitutional loyalty despite threats.”

    The DHQ stated that the terrorists entered Woro village of Kaiama local government of Kwara state with a request to conduct a preaching and indoctrination session in the village which was outrightly rejected by the villagers.

    It said the military was informed and promptly troops were dispatched to dominate the general areas with robust patrols and surveillance among other security measures for about two weeks.

    “The cowardly terrorists however, returned weeks later to kill innocent citizens in protest and in a bid to terrorise inhabitants and others.

    READ ALSO; Only six new products added to Nigeria’s export list – Adedeji

    “These groups seek to impose their twisted beliefs through terror and intimidation,” the DHQ said. 

    The military high command urged citizens to remain steadfast in their faith in the Nigerian Constitution, their individual beliefs and to uphold the shared values that bind our nation together.

    It stressed that the unity and resilience of the Nigerian people are our greatest defence against those who seek to destroy our peace and stability.

    While reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding all Nigerians and called for enhanced cooperation between citizens and security agencies to protect our communities, our individual freedom and our nation’s democratic ideals, the military high command urged all citizens of the country, irrespective of ethnic, religious or regional identity, to resist any form of ideological indoctrination by violent extremist groups. 

    “Efforts will continue to be intensified by the military in conjunction with other security agencies towards finding and bringing to account those responsible for the dastardly attack and indeed all terrorists in the country,” the DHQ assured.

  • Fed Govt targets 25m beneficiaries in women programme

    Fed Govt targets 25m beneficiaries in women programme

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday formally launched the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up (NFWP-SU).

    He described it as a strategic national investment, underscoring the Federal Government’s ambition to expand its reach to more than 25 million women nationwide.

    The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said the scale-up marks a decisive shift in Nigeria’s development strategy, with women’s economic empowerment, family stability and social development placed firmly at the centre of national growth.

    He stressed that Nigeria cannot achieve sustainable prosperity while half of its population remains structurally constrained.

    “Women are not peripheral to national development. They are central drivers of productivity, custodians of family stability, and indispensable partners in our ambition to build a resilient, competitive and prosperous nation,” the President said.

    READ ALSO; Only six new products added to Nigeria’s export list – Adedeji

    He noted that empowering women is essential to job creation, food security, financial inclusion and economic diversification under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    President Tinubu described the programme as more than a social intervention, calling it “a strategic investment in Nigeria’s economic infrastructure.” 

    He said the success of Phase I, which reached over one million beneficiaries in six states, provided strong evidence that structured, data-driven empowerment models deliver measurable and lasting impact.

    Building on that evidence, he announced a bold national ambition to scale the programme beyond its current targets to reach 25 million women nationwide, creating a sustainable platform for women’s economic inclusion embedded in federal, state and local systems.

    He called on development partners, particularly the World Bank, to support the expansion through financing, technical assistance and innovation.

    The President also praised the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, for what he described as disciplined leadership and purposeful reform, commending the ministry for reorganising social development into a coherent, accountable and technology-driven system.

    According to him, the integration of digital platforms such as the Happy Woman App, identity verification and transparent targeting reflects the administration’s insistence on measurable and verifiable public policy.

    Earlier, World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mathew Verghis, said the Bank was honoured to co-finance the programme with the Federal and State Governments, noting that Nigerian women remain disproportionately affected by poverty, with 64.3 per cent living below the lower-middle-income poverty line.

    He said the Women Affinity Group (WAG) model has proven effective in lifting women out of poverty through collective savings, access to credit, financial discipline and enterprise growth.

    World Bank Practice Manager for Social Protection and Jobs, Robert S. Chase, described the programme as one of the most ambitious gender-focused social and economic interventions currently being implemented in Africa.

    The NFWP-SU Phase II, a $540 million programme co-financed by the World Bank and the Federal and State Governments, will expand implementation to all 36 states and the FCT, directly reaching five million women, generating about 4.5 million jobs, and indirectly benefiting nearly 19.5 million Nigerians, while laying the groundwork for the broader expansion to 25 million women.

    The National Coordinator of the programme, Dr Hadiza Maina, continues to drive its implementation, advancing the interests of Nigerian women.

    Other speakers at the event included representatives of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.

    Senator Ireti Kingibe represented Senate President Godswill Akpabio. 

    Several ministers, including those of Finance and Agriculture, as well as all state commissioners for women affairs, were also in attendance.

  • Kwara killings: Turkey expresses sadness, promise support

    Kwara killings: Turkey expresses sadness, promise support

    The Turkish government has expressed sadness over Tuesday’s bandit attacks on two villages in Kwara state, which claimed scores of lives.

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said the villagers were killed after they refused to “surrender to extremists who preached a strange doctrine.”

    In a post on X, the governor stated that “75 local Muslims were massacred” during the attack. However, a state lawmaker told the BBC that at least 78 people had been buried, adding that the death toll could rise to about 170 as more bodies were being recovered.

    President Bola Tinubu blamed the killings on Islamist militant group Boko Haram and ordered the deployment of an army battalion to the affected area.

    READ ALSO; Only six new products added to Nigeria’s export list – Adedeji

    Reacting in a statement on its X handle, the Turkish government strongly condemned the attack and assured Nigeria of its continued support in the fight against terrorism.

    It stated, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of lives caused by the terrorist attack that took place in Kwara State, Nigeria. 

    “We strongly condemned the heinous attack and extend condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to the people of Nigeria.

    “Turkey will continue to support Nigeria in its fight against terrorism.”

  • JUST IN: Trump recognises Nigeria’s First Lady Oluremi Tinubu at US prayer breakfast 

    JUST IN: Trump recognises Nigeria’s First Lady Oluremi Tinubu at US prayer breakfast 

    United States President Donald Trump has publicly recognised Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during the National Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, February 5 at Washington, D.C.

    The event, a long-standing tradition in the U.S. capital that brings together political and religious leaders, took a notable turn when the American president paused his address to spotlight the Nigeria’s First Lady. 

    Trump drew attention to Mrs. Tinubu in the audience, describing her as a respected figure and highlighting her role as a Christian pastor in one of the largest churches in Nigeria.

    READ ALSO; Only six new products added to Nigeria’s export list – Adedeji

    He described her as a woman of significant influence and faith, acknowledging her spiritual role back home.

    “We’re honored to be joined today by the First Lady of Nigeria, who also happens to serve as a Christian pastor at the largest church in Nigeria. 

    “A very respected woman. First Lady, please, where are you? Thank you very much. It’s a great honor. Thank you very much. Very respected person, too,” Trump said, searching the crowd before acknowledging her presence.

  • First Lady advocates celebrate beauty of Hijab

    First Lady advocates celebrate beauty of Hijab

    The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, joined millions of hijab advocates across the country to celebrate the World Hijab Day.

    Senator Tinubu, in a message, enjoined Nigerians to continue to embrace mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and solidarity across all cultures and beliefs.

    She said Nigerians are stronger together.

    “On this World Hijab Day 2026, with the theme “Unity in Hijab,” I celebrate the beauty of choice, faith, and identity of Muslim women. The hijab is a symbol of obedience, dignity, strength, and worship for many women, and a reminder that our diversity is a source of unity, not division,” the First Lady said.

    A coalition of hijab advocates held various programees in the south and north to mark the World Hijab Day.

    In Lagos, thousands of Muslim women from all walks of life held a 12 kilometres walk to commemorate the day.

    The walk commenced at Allen Roundabout, Ikeja, and proceeded to the Alausa Secretariat Central Mosque.

    Participants marched in organized batches along the roadside without disrupting traffic. As they proceeded, the women chanted nasheeds and carried placards with messages such as ‘My Hijab, My Rights,’ ‘Hijab in Unity,’ ‘One Sisterhood,’ ‘My Hijab: A Cloth of Strength,’ ‘My Hijab: The Highest Form of Civilization,’ and ‘Hijab is My Bae: Jannah is the Goal,’ highlighting the religious significance, legal recognition, and constitutional protection of the hijab.

    The messages also served as a strong protest against harassment and discrimination faced by Muslim women and students, particularly in government-owned schools.

    The walk attracted representatives of several Muslim organisations, including the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) Lagos, Hijab Rights Advocacy Initiative, The Criterion Lagos District, Nasrullahi Fathi Society of Nigeria (NASFAT), Al-Mu’minaat (The Believing Women) and Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) Lagos State Area Unit, among others.

    The event culminated at the Alausa Secretariat Central Mosque, where the main hall was filled to capacity, with thousands of participants seated outside listening via loudspeakers.

    The programme, themed “Unity in Hijab” and locally framed as “One Sisterhood,” emphasised solidarity, inclusivity, and sustained advocacy for hijab rights across Nigeria.

    Hijab is a right protected by law and faith: Orolu-Balogun

    HRAI Executive Director, Hajia Mutiat Orolu-Balogun, welcomed participants, affirming that Muslim women had united to defend their faith and identity.

    “Wearing the hijab is a right granted by Allah and protected by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she said, urging women to freely express their beliefs, conscience, and religion.

    She noted that the event was not only a celebration of the hijab but also an opportunity to amplify the voices of Muslim sisters across the Ummah, including visually impaired and Igbo Muslim women. “We are one Ummah,” she said. “Whatever affects one member affects all of us.”

    Hajia Orolu-Balogun also delivered a firm message to those who may seek to intimidate or discriminate against Muslim women. “The hijab has come to stay in Nigeria. We shall not back down. Muslim women will continue to assert their rights and will not retreat in the face of challenges,” she declared.

    The Aare Musulumi Adinni of Ijebuland, Alhaji Musibau Oyefeso, was a surprise guest, joining the walk from Allen Roundabout till Alausa

    Alhaji Oyefeso, the former Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) Commissioner, emphasised that the hijab is both a constitutional right and a religious obligation for Muslim women and girls, firmly established in the Quran.

    He commended the Supreme Court for confirming this injunction, citing recent progress that now allows female law students to wear hijab even before donning their wigs, a change achieved through the persistent advocacy of Muslim women such as Firdaus Amasa.

    Commenting on proposed regulations for secondary school students in Lagos, Oyefeso said such policies must align with religious injunctions. He added that measures like placing a badge on the hijab are acceptable, while requiring students to tuck in or reduce the hijab would be inappropriate.

     “At the end, this approach will be a win-win for everyone,” he said, urging the government to encourage such initiatives without compromising children’s right to education.

    He described the walk as not only a platform for raising awareness about hijab rights but also as a healthy exercise promoting well-being.

    He highlighted that the march from Allen Roundabout to Alausa Secretariat allowed participants to educate both Muslim and non-Muslim passersby about the mandatory nature of hijab.

    He also called on Muslim men to actively support the cause, stressing that even if for no other reason, they should advocate for hijab rights for the sake of their daughters and wives.

     “Hijab is not easy to observe if girls are not educated about it from childhood,” he noted, urging families and communities to play their part in sustaining the practice.

  • Only six new products added to Nigeria’s export list – Adedeji

    Only six new products added to Nigeria’s export list – Adedeji

    Nigeria’s export drive has remained largely stagnant for decades, with the country adding only a few new products to what it sells to the rest of the world, the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has said.

    Adedeji disclosed that between 1998 and 2023, Nigeria made little progress in expanding its export base, adding just six new products to its export list between 2008 and 2023. He said this slow pace shows the need for a major change in how the country approaches economic growth.

    The NRS boss made the remarks while delivering a lecture titled “From Potential to Prosperity: Export-led Economy” at the maiden distinguished personality lecture of the Faculty of Administration, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, on Thursday.

    A statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Dare Adekanmbi, said Adedeji called on Nigeria to move away from heavy dependence on exporting raw materials and instead focus on ideas, innovation and the production of more advanced goods.

    READ ALSO; Okpebholo partners NNPC to build condensate refinery in Edo

    According to him, producing more of the same raw materials will not take the country far in today’s global economy.

    “Nigeria today has a high-tech oil sector and a large low-productivity informal sector, but lacks a strong industrial base that can absorb labour and help the economy move to a higher level,” Adedeji said.

    He said global studies show that Nigeria currently has limited opportunities to diversify its economy using existing strengths.

    “Because of our current position, the Harvard Atlas concluded that we are positioned to take advantage of very few opportunities to diversify using what we already know,” he said.

    Adedeji urged Nigeria to study countries that have recorded strong export-led growth, including Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, South Africa and Brazil, to understand what works and what does not.

    “We are not just looking at numbers in isolation. We are studying the choices made by countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Brazil and South Africa over the last 25 years,” he said.

    He explained that while many countries struggle economically in different ways, those that succeed often follow a similar path by deliberately building more complex and productive economies.

    “When we compare their experiences, the difference is clear. Vietnam used global trade to build a strong and diversified economy, while others remained dependent on natural resources or a single low-tech sector,” Adedeji said.

    He said one key lesson for Nigeria is that avoiding overdependence on natural resources is not enough.

    “You need a clear and active plan to build productive capacity,” he said.

    Using Vietnam as an example, Adedeji explained that the country succeeded by positioning itself within global value chains, especially in electronics manufacturing.

    “Vietnam became an assembly hub for the world’s electronics. They imported advanced components and exported finished products,” he said. “In the process, they gained technology and management skills that helped them build their own capacity.”

    He said Nigeria, by contrast, remains mostly a supplier of raw materials to global value chains rather than an active player within them.

    Adedeji warned that productive strength can be lost if countries are not careful, citing South Africa and Brazil as examples.

    “These cases show that you can lose your industrial edge. When countries rely too much on easy income from natural resources, it discourages the long-term work needed to build a strong industrial base,” he said.

    For Nigeria, which is less diversified than many of these countries, he said the risks are even greater.

    “Depending only on our natural resources is not just a road to slow growth, it is a road backwards,” Adedeji said. “The global economy now rewards knowledge, skills and complexity, not just what you can extract from the ground.”

    He said if Nigeria truly wants to move from potential to prosperity, it must stop being known only for raw materials and begin to stand out for ideas, innovation and advanced products.

    Adedeji also said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has started the difficult process of rebuilding the economy to support innovation, production and long-term resilience.

    “The journey from potential to prosperity will not be easy or quick, but with the right direction and determination, it is a journey Nigeria can complete,” he said.

  • Kidnappers demand N100m ransom for abducted Osun residents

    Kidnappers demand N100m ransom for abducted Osun residents

    …community tasks Adeleke, security operatives to end recurring attack 

    Kidnappers who abducted two residents of Ora-Igbomina, a border community in Ifedayo Local Government Area of Osun State, have demanded a N100 million ransom for their release.

    The Nation learnt that the victims, Tayese Adeyeye and Sunday Adewumi, were abducted around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday when gunmen invaded a private residence along the Aran–Orin Road in the Papa area of the town.

    Confirming the development on Thursday, the Ora-Igbomina Youth Front, led by Comrade Omololu Abidoye, said the kidnappers had contacted the community to demand N100 million for the release of the abducted residents.

    Abidoye lamented that the latest incident followed the abduction of a retired Customs officer in the community on December 15, 2025, describing the situation as increasingly disturbing.

    “It is becoming worrisome. These repeated attacks have thrown our community into disarray, creating chronic fear and immeasurable tension among residents,” he said.

    He also criticised Governor Ademola Adeleke, accusing the state government of failing to take decisive steps to prevent the recurring incidents of kidnapping in the area.

    READ ALSO; Okpebholo partners NNPC to build condensate refinery in Edo

    “Today, in less than two months after the first ever community invasion and kidnapping recorded in our town, another has happened on Sunday, February 1st, 2026. Leaving two sons of the soil whisked away. Unarguably, the inability of security agencies to bring to book, the perpetrators involved in the first case has created a convenient avenue for evil doers who specialized in kidnapping-for-ransom to strike again.”

    He disclosed that “The kidnappers have contacted us to demand for N100million ransom, where do we get that from?, We are farmers who love peace above all things.”

    Abidoye on behalf of the community demanded that Osun Government should put physical security barriers in place to define and demarcate the State boundary which will prevent unauthorized entry into the state through the Ora border.

    “We demand Human and Operational Security be put in place for effective surveillance and community watch solely for territorial gatekeeping. We demand a Military checkpoint in Ora to enable a comprehensive security posture, against organized crime in volatile border area like our community.”

  • 2027: Seyi Tinubu inaugurates RTIFN state coordinators

    2027: Seyi Tinubu inaugurates RTIFN state coordinators

    …urges commitment to Renewed Hope Agenda

    Founder-in-Chief of the pro-administration advocacy group, Relax! Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria (RTIFN), Mr. Seyi Tinubu, has inaugurated state coordinators of the President Bola Tinubu support group, charging them to remain committed to the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The inauguration, held in Abuja on Wednesday, marked a major step in the group’s nationwide expansion, with coordinators formally appointed across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    RTIFN, a youth-driven movement, seeks to bridge the communication gap between government and citizens by promoting accurate information on the administration’s policies, countering misinformation and encouraging Nigerians to remain patient amid ongoing economic reforms.

    In his welcome address, the National Coordinator, Hon. Ahmed Bala, conveyed a message from Seyi Tinubu, who was unavoidably absent due to prior commitments.

    “Before we continue, I wish to convey a message on behalf of our Founder-in-Chief, Barrister Seyi Tinubu, who sends his heartfelt apologies for not being able to attend in person due to unavoidable commitments. He extends his warm regards and full support for today’s event and expresses deep gratitude for your dedication,” Bala said.

    Describing the coordinators as the backbone of the organisation, Bala noted that their roles were critical to achieving the group’s vision.

    “The coordinators appointed across the various states form the backbone of our operational network. Each of you represents a vital link between our national vision and the communities we aim to reach. Your responsibilities are important, your roles significant, and your commitment deeply appreciated,” he said.

    READ ALSO; Okpebholo partners NNPC to build condensate refinery in Edo

    He urged them to uphold the values of the organisation, stressing that their leadership would determine the unity and effectiveness of the group.

    “As state coordinators, you hold positions of trust. You are expected to uphold the values of this organisation, ensure effective communication, foster collaboration and provide direction within your respective states. Your leadership will determine not only the strength of our structure but also the unity and effectiveness of our collective efforts,” he added.

    Speaking with journalists, the group’s Matron and former Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Hajiya Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, who represented Seyi Tinubu, said the group believes in the President’s reform agenda and ongoing policy changes.

    “Fixing means a continuous activity, not as fixed. We are believers in the action of Mr. President, in the Renewed Hope Agenda, in the policies that have been brought, because we know and we are seeing the changes,” she said.

    Highlighting some reforms, Aliyu described the removal of fuel subsidy as a bold step, noting that other economic reforms were already yielding gradual results.

    “Removal of that subsidy was for the courageous, and he did. He came in quickly and touched on reforms like tax reform and exchange rate stabilisation. If you look into the market, you will see food prices gradually coming down. We did not say it has come down completely, but the process has started,” she said.

    She urged Nigerians to support the administration, stressing that national development requires sacrifice.

    “There is no labour without pain. Nation building requires patience and sacrifice. If we unite behind the Renewed Hope Agenda, there will be light for Nigeria,” she added, urging citizens to “relax” and trust the process.

    Aliyu said the group aims to serve as a bridge between the government and citizens by disseminating accurate information on policies and programmes.

    “We put ourselves together to serve as a bridge between leadership and the Nigerian people, especially the downtrodden, to disseminate proper information about what the Renewed Hope Agenda has achieved,” she said.

    She also charged the newly inaugurated coordinators to uphold national unity, selfless service and empathy in their duties.

    “They must uphold the constitution, serve with diligence, sincerity and humility, and remain close to the people. They are the bridge between leadership and the grassroots,” she said.

    Also speaking, the National Secretary, Dr. Felix O. Arome, described RTIFN as a youth-based organisation committed to countering misinformation about government policies.

    “Relax! Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria is a youth-based organisation meant to stand in the gap and ensure misinformation does not derail the good work of the current administration. It is about passion for country and building a better future,” he said.

    He stressed the importance of accurate information, noting that many Nigerians misunderstand the government’s policies.

    “The essence of this group is to humbly disseminate information that can properly enlighten people. We know the country faces challenges, but meaningful progress requires patience and resilience,” he added.

    The oath of office was administered to the coordinators on behalf of Seyi Tinubu, followed by a briefing on the organisation’s structure and reporting lines.

    Dignitaries at the event included Senator Osita Izunaso, representing Imo West (Orlu), and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student and Youth Engagement, Comrade Sunday Ashefon. The ceremony also featured an interactive session and a vote of thanks delivered by the Deputy National Coordinator and Nollywood veteran, Mr. Zack Orji.

    RTIFN said its membership cuts across lawmakers, former governorship candidates and other political stakeholders, adding that it would continue expanding its structure at state, local government and grassroots levels to promote public engagement and awareness of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

  • Okpebholo partners NNPC to build condensate refinery in Edo

    Okpebholo partners NNPC to build condensate refinery in Edo

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed hs administration’s readiness to partner with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) to build a 10,000 barrel-per-day condensate refinery in the state.

    It was in 2019 that the NNPCL first announced its decision to establish a condensate refinery that to specifically produce Premium Motor Spirit, also known as petrol.

    The corporation said, then, that has completed feasibility studies on the refinery.

    Governor Okpebholo, who spoke when he played host to NNPCL’s Executive Vice President for Downstream, Alhaji Mumuni Dagazia, and his management team, said the investment was a reflection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

    Okpebholo said the refinery would create jobs, reduce poverty, and strengthen the state’s industrial base, even as he assured the NNPC team of his administration’s full support to ensure the success of the project.

    He said his administration would provide land, Certificates of Occupancy (C of O), security, and all other necessary logistics to facilitate the project.

    “We are delighted to welcome this major investment to Edo State. My administration is committed to creating jobs and reducing poverty, in line with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This is a huge step for Edo, and we are proud to be part of it.

    “Security will not be an issue. We are committed to protecting investments and ensuring Edo State remains safe for business. Our political will is fully behind this initiative,” Governor Okpebholo said.

    Read Also: Okpebholo okays Assembly’s investigation into allegations against council boss

    The refinery is expected to be completed within 24 to 36 months and would be located across Oredo and Orhionmwon Local Government Areas.

    It is expected to produce approximately 20 truckloads of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and 10 truckloads of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) to serve Edo State and its neighboring regions.

    Alhaji Mumuni described the condensate refinery as a sustainable project aimed not only at revenue generation but also at job creation, industrial growth, and the overall development of Edo State.

    The Chief Downstream Investment Officer at NNPC, Mr. Ikedichi Dick-Nwoke, said the refinery would position Edo State as a major energy and industrial hub in the South-South region.

    He added that the project would boost investor confidence, align with Governor Okpebholo’s industrialization agenda, and significantly expand employment opportunities for Edo residents.

  • New remuneration for political office holders ready, says RMAFC

    New remuneration for political office holders ready, says RMAFC

    The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), said on Thursday that it has finalised work on a new remuneration for political office others in the country  which it has submitted to the President through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

    Chairman of the Commission, Mohammed Bello Shehu who disclosed this at a budget defence of the agency before the House Committee on Finance  said the new proposal which is for Ministers and political office holders will soon be forwarded to the National Assembly by the President.

    He said the agency is also working on “vertical, horizontal revenue sharing formula. We are also on that. We will conclude this year”

    Shehu who gave update on the ongoing review of revenue allocation formula for the three tiers of government as well as remuneration for political office holders, saying: “very soon we will conclude. We have done everything. We have concluded. We are just about to finish analyzing the data and bring it before you.”

    He said “We hope that very soon this will be transmitted to you so that it becomes law. Of course, your own doesn’t require any legislation. It’s for Ministers and others”. 

    He expressed concern over the interferance of state governments in the fiscal governance of the Local Government Areas over the years, saying “the Commission would like to establish a Local Government Committee now like we used to do before the Supreme Court said we were busy bodies. Now we will monitor every single Local Government in Nigeria.

    “I’m glad that Mr. President spoke to the Governors himself, that if you don’t allow this then I will issue an Executive Order. So, the Commission is fully in support of Mr. President over this course. 

    “The crisis we are having in Nigeria today is lack of functionality of Local Governments and every single one of us knows this. Even under the military the Local Governments will perform much more better. So I thank you profoundly sir, it’s your committee that initiated this.

    Read Also: RMAFC moves to develop transparent framework for 13% derivation fund disbursement

    “Three years ago when we came we were telling you, you (Faleke) said chairman you can handle this and you guided me and I followed your advice and the rest is a success so we are grateful to this also.”

    “I sincerely thank this committee for what you have done to Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission. You have brought us out. We are now being respected by almost all the revenue generating agencies in Nigeria. 

    “Even before we knock now, they are knocking at our doors, having discussions with us and some of the issues that have been over the years are being addressed by some of these revenue generating agencies, whether it is the Nigerian Customs, NUPRC and other agencies.

    “So I thank you profoundly and I think you have done a great service to Nigeria and this is just the beginning. I will now go to the document before you.”

    Shehu hinted the lawmakers that the agency was carrying out an audit of the nation’s oil assets in the Niger Delta.

    He said: “what you have done to us and to Nigeria, your name will go down in gold, sir. We are being respected by all revenue generating agencies. Anywhere we go now, everybody is like shivering trying to really identify with us.

    “For the first time, like the verification that we are doing of oil wells all across the Niger Delta region has never been done. The equipment that we have, not even new precursors. No Governor now will say, when you come to my state, you have to beg me where even we are going to stay, provide vehicles and things like that. Now we can do that, sir. My people, sir, spent three to four months in the field.

    “Some of them went to the creek water up to here, sir, to identify those oil assets that we have in Nigeria. And by the time we finish, sir, when Mr. President receives this report, this country will shake, sir. And I’m not making it up. I have provided you with an internal report, but I don’t want to let the cart out of the bag, sir. So this is remarkable, sir.”