The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Fleeing bandits’ drug supplier Gamboli arrested in Niger

    Fleeing bandits’ drug supplier Gamboli arrested in Niger

    Three weeks after escaping arrest at his home at Anguwan Matera, Kuta, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, a notorious supplier of illicit drugs to bandits in the area, 33-year-old Mohammed Sani (alias Gamboli), has been arrested by National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at his hideout.

    Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Femi Babafemi, broke the news in a statement yesterday.

    Babafemi said following credible intelligence about the illicit drug activities of Gamboli, NDLEA operatives had on November 20, this year, raided his house at Anguwan Makera, where they recovered 471.8 kilograms of skunk, a strain of cannabis.

    He said though Sani escaped arrest during the raid and had since been in hiding, the manhunt for him eventually paid off last Thursday, when NDLEA officers acting on intelligence traced and arrested him at one of his drug joints in Anguwan Fadama, Kuta.

    Babafemi said intelligence reports had indicated that Gamboli is a major supplier of illicit drugs to bandits operating in Shiroro Local Government Area.

    The NDLEA, Delta State Command has busted a warehouse in Asaba, the state capital, operated by drug syndicate and seized illicit drugs worth over N150 million.

    The state NDLEA Commander, Dr. Halilu Hamidu, made this known during a press conference in Asaba at the weekend to review the activities of the agency in the year.

    Beside the seizure of the narcotics, the agency noted that its operatives had impounded other dangerous substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, worth over N3billion in the state between January and December 12.

    Hamidu assured residents that the Command had launched an aggressive manhunt to identify, track, and arrest the masterminds behind the storage and trafficking of the drugs.

    Specifically, the Commander said on December 6, operatives, acting on high-grade intelligence, stormed a warehouse at Oko Market, Asaba, uncovering a stockpile of illicit drugs primed for distribution across the state.

    He added that NDLEA officers in Abia State last Thursday raided a clandestine codeine syrup-manufacturing factory at Amapu Igbengwo village, Umuakpara, in Osisioma Local Government Area of the state and recovered a total of 9,015 bottles of codeine syrup weighing 1,152.2kg.

    In Enugu State, operatives last Thursday too arrested Ossai  Emeka, 45, on Onitsha-Enugu Ezike Road with 7.2kg skunk, while Enoje Agada, 40, was nabbed along Enugu-Ezike -Ette Road with 94.6kg of same psychoactive substance.

    At a notorious drug joint known as “Beere the California” at Ido in Oyo State, 3.4kg skunk, 1.6kg Colorado, a synthetic cannabis and 400grams of methamphetamine were seized by the agency. The owner of the drug joint identified as “Idowu the killer” is at large while a suspect Ajibade Faruk was nabbed at the joint. 

    At Idi Oro, Elekuro, Ibadan last Friday, Olusanya Abosede, 35, 238.4kg skunk was seized.

    Babafemi said while Bashiru Babalola, 43, and Ugunwale Ranti, 50, were arrested on December 10 at Gbaji Checkpoint, Seme Road Badagry, Lagos with 50,000 pills of tramadol 250mg, the agency’s operatives in Ogun State arrested two suspects – Akinwale Makanjuola and Joseph Owolabi  – with 73kg skunk at Iperu.

    He added that another suspect Wasiu Lateef was nabbed with 25kg of same substance at Oke Agbede, Imeko area of the state on December 9.

    He said: “In Ondo State, NDLEA officers acting on credible intelligence on Monday 10th December raided a compound in Ogbese, Akure North Local Government Area, where they arrested a 55-year-old woman Veronica Obi and her 29-year-old son Bright Obi, and recovered 1,187 kilograms of skunk and its seeds from them.

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    “A suspect Ohiomah Igbafe, 44, was arrested during a raid operation at Uroe community, Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State, where 461kg skunk and its seeds were recovered on December 9.

    “In Gombe State, a suspect Muhammed Sani (alias Sha-Mu-Sha), 50, was arrested with 40,000 capsules of tramadol at Tunfure area, Gombe, while two other suspects: Muhammad Abdullahi (a.k.a Sakalala), 52, and Muhammed Hamza (a.k.a Mamman), 32, were nabbed at Ashaka Jalingo, with 56kg skunk on December 8.

    “No fewer than 907 pills of tramadol, tapentadol, cocodamol, amitriptyline and bromazepam  concealed in containers of local black soap, and designer wears, in six different consignments going to the U.S., Canada and Sweden were intercepted and seized by NDLEA operatives at two major courier companies in Lagos between December 9 and 10, 2025.”

    Babafemi said at the Apapa seaport in Lagos, NDLEA officers last Saturday intercepted a consignment of 170,000 bottles of codeine syrup weighing 23,579kg during an examination of a container with men of Customs Service and other security agencies.

     Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) commended the officers and enjoined them and their colleagues across the country to continue with the drug control efforts of the agency.

    According to him, the raid led to the recovery of large quantities of Tramadol, Rohypnol, Hypnox, Diazepam, Exol-5, Codeine, and other highly dangerous substances.

    Hamidu described the discovery as shocking and disturbing, particularly as families and communities prepare for the festive season. He warned that the circulation of these drugs represents a grave threat to public safety, youth wellbeing, and social stability, stressing that the warehouse had the potential to unleash a wave of addiction, crime, and untold tragedy across the state and beyond.

    Hamidu emphasised that the operation sends a message: the command remains resolute in its mission to safeguard Delta.

    He added that throughout the Yuletide and beyond, security operatives would continue to act decisively to ensure the safety, stability, and security of the state, regardless of the challenges they face.

    The commander noted that the Command, in partnership with the State Drug Control Committee (SDCC), had strengthened youth-focused drug education by establishing War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) clubs in secondary schools across the state.

    He said: “These clubs serve as safe-learning spaces where students are empowered with practical knowledge, guidance, and support to resist drug use.

    “They help young people build confidence, make better decisions, and understand the long-term consequences of substance abuse in simple, relatable terms.

    “Our sensitisation efforts also reached the NYSC Orientation Camp, tertiary institutions, religious organisations, workplaces, and various community gatherings.

    “In each engagement, we meet people where they are: families, youths, workers, and community leaders helping them understand the risks of drug abuse and how to protect those they care about. These outreach activities continue to strengthen community awareness, encourage collective responsibility, and build a more informed and resilient Delta State.”

    Hamidu said between January and December, this year, the command’s Drug Demand Reduction Unit counselled to 704 individuals struggling with drug dependency (480 males and 224 females).

    In addition, he indicated that 14 clients were admitted for counselling and rehabilitation.

    He acknowledged the indispensable support received from the state government, the military, sister law enforcement agencies, traditional institutions, religious bodies, educational institutions, media partners, youth associations, NGOs and civil society organisations, saying their partnership remains fundamental to the progress they have made.

    He stated: “The command remains firmly committed to strengthening its operations throughout Delta State. Our focus is to work hand in hand with all relevant stakeholders to build an environment where drugs are harder to access, harder to distribute, and far less attractive to potential users.

    “By reducing both the demand for drugs and the supply channels that feed abuse, we aim to protect our communities and support healthier, more productive lives for our people.

    “This drive is fully aligned with the vision of the current administration and directly supports the successful implementation of the M.O.R.E Agenda. With continued cooperation from government bodies, security agencies, traditional institutions, and community groups, the State can move closer to achieving lasting safety and social stability.

    “Furthermore, under the strong leadership and national direction of the Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Brig.-Gen Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd.), the fight against drug abuse and trafficking continues to gain momentum.

    “His commitment and strategic guidance have strengthened our operations nationwide, and the Delta State Command stands ready to intensify the battle even further in line with his vision for a drug-free Nigeria.’’

  • Rivers women protest two-year blackout

    Rivers women protest two-year blackout

    • Appeal to govts, oil firms to save their souls

    Hundreds of women from Kula, an oil bearing community in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State, at the weekend protested the alleged blackout in their communities, which has lasted for two years.

    They said the development has led to lack of water supply and created huge business and economic losses to the residents in the coastal/Ireland community.

    The women, who protested from the community to the Jetty and security checkpoints in the community, carried placards with various inscriptions that captured their grievances, and lamented that the protracted absence of electricity has resulted in severe scarcity of water.

    They said the situation has brought untold hardship and sanitation issues to them, making life unbearable for the people.

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    The women said the lack of basic amenities has affected public health, the well-being of the populace, as well as their economy, especially small-scale businesses, hinting that it has spiked cost of living, and forcing many households to rely on contaminated water from reptile-infested wells for their consumption, with its attendant health implications.

     “We’re angry, we do not have light, no water, we’re suffering. It is light that makes everything happen. When there is no light, life becomes difficult and meaningless, because every other business will cripple as well.

    “We’re appealing to the Federal Government to intervene in this situation, and save us. Because there is no light, mosquitoes are feasting on us. We don’t sleep at night because of mosquitoes.” they lamented.

    The women noted that the community has the highest number of oil wells and that it is an error for such a community to lack the basic amenities.

    They said the situation has created untold hardship, hunger and starvation in the community, insisting that their means of livelihood, small scale businesses have crumbled, and that it has become very hard for them to feed their families, describing it as a nightmare.

    “Due to too many mosquito bites, women and children are always sick of malaria. There is an incessant outbreak of cholera because we’re consuming, drinking bad water from rivers where we defecate. That is the only option available to us, but if there is light, we can pump  healthy/clean water for our daily needs, while our businesses thrive.”

    They appealed to governments at all levels,  Renaissance,  Belemaoil and Newcross oil firms to come to their aid, and save them from the “pitiable” situation.

  • Reps get petition seeking review of changes to realtors’ CAC records

    Reps get petition seeking review of changes to realtors’ CAC records

    The House of Representatives has received a petition seeking a review of changes made to the records of Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

    The petition, submitted on behalf of the two companies, raised concerns over alterations to their filings at the CAC, calling for the National Assembly to examine the circumstances surrounding the changes.

    It was presented during plenary by Muktar Tolani Shagaya, who represents Ilorin West Federal Constituency of Kwara State. The session was presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, granted leave for the petition to be laid before the House.

    According to the petitioners, the disputed changes relate to shareholding structure, directorship and the status of certain corporate filings. They contended that the amendments were made while ownership and control issues involving the companies were already before the courts and subject to review by relevant authorities.

    The matter is connected to a long-running dispute over interests in the River Park Estate, a major real estate development in Abuja, involving competing claims among investors and associated entities.

    In a statement referenced in the petition, Kojo Ansah Mensah, chief executive, Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited, said the companies had earlier written to regulatory and law enforcement authorities over the dispute, adding that they requested  no changes be made to their records pending the outcome of ongoing processes.

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    He maintained that the companies were not given fair hearing before the disputed filings were effected.

    The petitioners also alleged that following the changes at the CAC, individuals recognised as directors in the updated records took steps to notify banks and other institutions of a change in control of the companies. They argued that these actions have disrupted operations and worsened the dispute.

    Separately, Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited has issued statements distancing itself from claims by individuals it said were not authorised to speak or act on its behalf. The company insisted that its current directors and shareholding structure were as reflected in earlier filings and internal resolutions, adding that any contrary claims were the subject of ongoing legal processes.

    The companies have since written to the National Assembly and Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, requesting intervention and clarification on the role of the CAC in disputes that were before the courts.

  • Police detain mortician for alleged organ harvesting

    Police detain mortician for alleged organ harvesting

    Edo State Police Command has detained a mortician (names withheld) for allegedly harvesting organs of a body deposited at the Aigbe mortuary on Akugbe Street in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area.

    The mortuary was vandalised when a family raised the alarm that certain organs were missing from the body of their late father.

    It was gathered that the body was taken away by the family for burial and it was while lying in-state that the missing organs were discovered.

    Family sources said the stomach of the body was found filled with cellophane after the internal organs had been removed.

    The source said: “The family observed a strong smell from the body and it was while spraying perfume on the body that they discovered that some organs were harvested.

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    “All the burial arrangements were scattered and the body was returned to the mortuary.

    “Other people who had bodies at the mortuary rushed to take them to another mortuary.”

    The source said the family returned the body to the mortuary for explanation and a mob vented their anger on the mortuary.

    A viral video showed the body with an opening on the chest region and several cellophane taken out of it.

    Edo Police Command spokesman, Eno Ikoedem, said the mortician was taken in after a distress call was received.

    Ikoedem said an investigation had started.

  • Ipas hosts workshop for journalists, content creators, others

    Ipas hosts workshop for journalists, content creators, others

    The urgent need to address a potential rise in maternal mortality rates has once again come to the forefront. As part of its efforts to promote reproductive justice through improved access to abortion and contraception, Ipas Nigeria Health Foundation organised a workshop for journalists, content creators, advocacy groups, nurses, and health workers.

    The three-day training, held in Keffi, Nasarawa State, focused extensively on Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (WSRHR).

    Dr. Lucky Palmer, the country doctor of Ipas, delivered an in-depth session on ‘Value Clarification and Attitudes Transformation (VCAT).’

    He highlighted the vital role of the media in shaping public discourse, reducing stigma, and framing sexual and reproductive health as a human rights issue—beyond just health or moral considerations.

    Journalists were encouraged to report on SRHR with accuracy, empathy, and sensitivity, employing language that is respectful and suitable, and presenting information clearly and concisely.

    A gynaecologist, Dr. Talemoh Wycliffe Dah, addressed ‘How Unsafe Abortion Fuels Maternity Mortality.’

    In his presentation, Dah discussed the experiences many women undergo to terminate pregnancies and the associated dangers.

    He stated that instead of viewing abortion purely as a moral issue, it should be regarded as a public health concern.

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    He also spoke about access to safe abortion, contraception, adolescent sexual health, and the effects of stigma on women’s ability to seek care.

    Additionally, a lawyer, Emanuella Azu, led a session on ‘VAPP, National and International Convention Policy, on WSRHR.’

    She covered topics related to women’s sexual rights and Nigeria’s international commitments to women’s rights.

    She urged journalists to consistently remind the government of these agreements when reporting.

    The facilitators agreed that women should have the freedom to make choices regarding their sexuality and sexual health.

  • Foundation unveils awards to promote good governance

    Foundation unveils awards to promote good governance

    An organisation, the TOCSS Foundation and the Temidayo Ogan Music Medicine, has unveiled its plans for the 19th TOCSS Awards.

    In a statement by the Chair of the 19th TOCSS Awards, Johnson Johnson, it would unveil the TOCSS List of World Change Catalysts.

    It said the initiative aims at promoting quality governance, public health, global corporate excellence, and continuous quality improvement around the world. “This year’s awards focus on data-driven selections and quality management systems to achieve the goals of the awards management system,” Johnson said.

    He said the awards policy celebrates excellence and encourages continuous improvement for global population health.

    “Our goals include advancing continuous quality improvement and supporting efforts to promote the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” he added.

    The TOCSS Awards have been presented annually since 2007 to promote global public health and safety.

    The statement noted that a separate prize programme was launched in 2024 to further recognise quality performance in individuals, corporations, and governments.

    It noted that the TOCSS List of World Change Catalysts aims to use motivational tools to promote quality performance and quality governance globally.

    “The new list is data-driven and integrates public opinion into the awards management system,” Johnson added.

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    He explained that the framework randomly collects data from strategic pools and uses evidence-based objectives and the TOCSS Awards’ goals to select winners.

    Johnson noted that the theme for the 2025 list, “Global Population Health,” focuses on improving health, wellness, and safety worldwide.

    He stressed that the event will emphasise reducing disparities and ensuring that everyone around the world has access to quality healthcare, safety, security, and general wellbeing—including good nutrition, safe schools, clean water, and other SDG-related needs.

    The statement added that this year’s list will be published in the media on December 23, 2025.

  • CrimsonBow lauds NASS over sickle cell centres bill, empowers 400

    CrimsonBow lauds NASS over sickle cell centres bill, empowers 400

    The CrimsonBow Sickle Cell Initiative has applauded the Senate for prioritising the welfare of persons living with Sickle Cell Disorder (SCD) through the Sickle Cell Disorder Research and Therapy Centres (Establishment) Bill, 2025.

    The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of CrimsonBow, Ms Timi Edwin, gave the commendation at the initiative’s End-of-the-Year 2025 Free Clinic for about 400 carriers in Lagos, sponsored by the Rabiu Olowo Foundation.

    It was reported that the Senate had taken a decisive step toward improving care for patients by passing for second reading a bill to establish Sickle Cell Disorder (SCD) Research and Therapy Centres across the country.

    The proposed legislation seeks to drastically cut Nigeria’s sickle cell mortality rate by creating one specialised centre in each of the six geo-political zones and the Federal Capital Territory.

    The centres will serve as hubs for diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, research and public education.

    Edwin, who commended the Federal Government for shifting attention to millions of Nigerian households bearing huge burdens of sickle cell anaemia, said the step aligned with the initiative’s mission.

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    Commending the sponsor of the bill, Sen. Sunday Katung, and the Senate Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary), Edwin said the initiative would provide a structured and sustainable response to one of the most common inherited disorders.

    “We would like to commend the Federal Government through the Senate for deeming it fit to alleviate the suffering of carriers of sickle cell anaemia in this country.

    “Pushing for this bill has brought a lot of joy to our hearts as carriers of sickle cell disorder.

    “This is exciting. It is commendable that Nigeria has started showing commitment to strengthening SCD. We want this bill to be passed and implemented as soon as possible.

    “Having a special clinic for patients, with the right consultants, medication and everything a patient with sickle cell will need, is exciting,” Edwin said.

    She called on President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to pump more money into the health sector and non-communicable diseases to reduce mortality rates in the country.

    According to her, the bill is visionary, timely and holds tremendous potential to transform care, research and outcomes for millions of Nigerians.

    Edwin, however, added that the coalition of sickle cell NGOs had forwarded observations and recommendations on the bill to the Senate to strengthen implementation, ensure sustainability and guarantee maximum impact.

    On the free clinic, the founder said the initiative provided general health talks, medical consultations, medication, vaccination, routine tests, genotype testing and counselling for no fewer than 400 persons living with sickle cell in Lagos.

    “Our clinics are monthly. We have done 10 clinics this year and have impacted more than 5,000 people living with sickle cell who have benefited from our services.

    “We want support from well-meaning Nigerians and also want the government to increase the budget for healthcare across the country,” Edwin said.

    Speaking, Mr George Oche, General Manager, Rabiu Olowo Foundation, said the foundation’s intervention in sickle cell care was driven by the lived experience of its founder and Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria.

    Oche, representing the founder, said both he and the founder live with sickle cell disease, adding that the foundation, built on three key pillars—health (sickle cell), education and community services—was committed to supporting patients and affected communities.

    Oche described living with sickle cell disease as challenging but purposeful, noting that his condition strengthens his resolve to make impact through advocacy, care and community support.

    He said the foundation runs initiatives including free genotype testing, support for warriors and outreach programmes aimed at improving the quality of life of patients.

    According to him, the foundation’s 10K GenoTest initiative targets 10,000 youths with free testing and awareness to help reduce Nigeria’s high sickle cell birth prevalence.

    Counselling patients not to give up on life, Dr Pamela Ajayi, Chairman, Bridge Clinic and host of Doctors on Air, said bone marrow transplant “is no longer something to be avoided and can now be done in Nigeria.”

    Ajayi also emphasised the importance of pre-marital and pre-implantation genetic testing, saying there are important new treatments and initiatives now available in Nigeria.

    According to her, since these initiatives are expensive, there is a need for government to establish special clinics and dedicated funds for SCD carriers.

    Dr Ayodele Renner, a consultant paediatrician and child health advocate, described people living with leukaemia as “warriors,” praising their courage and resilience despite daily pain, lifelong medication and emotional challenges.

    He urged Nigerians to prioritise genotype testing, warning that many adults marry without knowing their status, increasing the risk of sickle cell disease among children.

    Renner called for routine genotype and blood group testing for all children at one year, noting that late diagnosis often leads to severe complications, including anaemia and kidney failure.

    He advised diagnosed patients to keep clinic appointments, take prescribed drugs regularly and avoid self-medication, stressing that early hospital care improves survival and quality of life.

    Renner said governments should expand health insurance, subsidise drugs like Hydroxyurea, support blood services and strengthen sickle cell clinics to reduce financial burdens on affected families.

    Beneficiaries, including 11-year-old Hassanat Adewale, commended the commitment of the CrimsonBow initiative to easing the suffering of patients with SCD.

  • Police arrest six suspected Enugu cultists over forceful initiation, recover firearm

    Police arrest six suspected Enugu cultists over forceful initiation, recover firearm

    Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command have uncovered and disrupted a cult group’s forceful initiation exercise in Enugu, arresting six suspects and recovering a firearm and other dangerous weapons.

    The arrests were carried out on December 5, 2025, by operatives attached to the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad, following credible intelligence. 

    The suspects were alleged to have forcefully initiated victims into the Supreme Vikings Confraternity on November 25, 2025, in a forest at Ugwu Peak, Iva Valley, Enugu North Local Government Area.

    Police said items recovered from the suspects include one locally made double-barrelled pistol, four cutlasses allegedly used during the initiation, and two empty bottles of Squadron rum believed to have been used for the exercise.

    Those arrested were identified as Edeh Francis Chigbo, also known as “Saint” (22); Ogbu Fabulous, alias “Nwakanwa” (23); Odom Chiemerie, alias “Coded” (28); Nweke Anayo, alias “Chaplet” (22); Obumneme Obiechina, alias “Biggy” (30); and Chigozie Ugbene, alias “God bless” (20).

    According to the police, the suspects confessed to being members of the secret cult group and admitted their involvement in the forceful initiation of victims. 

    They are expected to be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of investigations.

    The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, reiterated the command’s determination to rid the state of unrepentant criminals and clamp down on cult-related activities, particularly during the yuletide season and beyond.

    Giwa urged residents to remain law-abiding and vigilant, while calling on members of the public to cooperate with the police by promptly reporting suspicious movements and criminal activities in their communities.

    The police assured that sustained intelligence-led operations would continue across the state to ensure a safe and peaceful festive period for residents.

  • NEMA activates emergency response for yuletide season

    NEMA activates emergency response for yuletide season

    The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has activated its emergency response operations to provide quick responses to emergencies during the yuletide season and beyond.

    The Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, disclosed this in Abuja on Saturday at the end of a fitness exercise by staff of the Agency.

    The exercise, which featured a walk of about five kilometres, was aimed at promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and preparedness among staff in line with the Agency’s mandate as a frontline emergency coordination agency.

    The DG, in a statement by the Spokesperson of the Agency, Manzo Ezekiel, explained that physical readiness was critical to effective emergency response, especially during periods of heightened human and vehicular activities.

    She assured Nigerians that NEMA has activated its preparedness mechanisms nationwide and is working in close coordination with relevant stakeholders, including security agencies, emergency responders, and other critical agencies, to ensure rapid response to any emergency during the festive period.

    Umar urged members of the public to remain safety-conscious throughout the celebrations, advising motorists to avoid speeding, adhere to traffic regulations, and exercise caution on the roads and waterways, at public gatherings, and in residential areas.

    She further reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to the protection of lives and property, emphasising that the Agency remains on standby across its zonal, territorial, and state operations offices to facilitate a timely response to emergencies that may arise during the yuletide season and in the days ahead.

    The Director of Search and Rescue at NEMA, Air Commodore Bature Usman, explained that the fitness exercise was a routine activity designed to keep personnel physically and mentally prepared for emergency response operations at all times.

    The exercise featured the participation of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

  • OGFZA seeks 10-year exemption for free zones in new tax law

    OGFZA seeks 10-year exemption for free zones in new tax law

    The Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA) has thrown its weight behind calls for a 10-year exemption for operators in special economic and free zones from the new tax law provisions. 

    OGFZA’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Bamanga Usman Jada, took the position during a town hall meeting with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and OGFZA licensees held at the Onne Oil and Gas Free Zone in Rivers State.

    This was as he announced that it has attracted more than 24 billion dollars in investments into Nigeria, an achievement that underscores the strategic value of the nation’s free zones.

    Head, Corporate Communications, Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA), Golda Opuine Ukomadu, made this known in a statement made available to The Nation in Abuja on Saturday. 

    Jada argued that the proposed 10-year extension would provide operators with the “adaptation space” needed to transition and comply with evolving tax requirements, noting that Nigeria’s free zones have already generated hundreds of thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the country.

    He said, “Distinguished guests, I endorse the appeal presented last week by the Managing Director/CEO of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) during the stakeholder engagement organized by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment. 

    “The request seeks a minimum ten-year exemption for operators in special economic zones and free zones from the new tax provisions, allowing sufficient time for adaptation.

    “Energy-oriented free zones have been pivotal in driving development in numerous nations, exemplified by the Jebel Ali Free Zone in Dubai and the Sohar Free Zone in Oman. These initiatives have drawn billions in investments, generated extensive employment opportunities, and positioned their economies as global leaders.

    “Similarly, OGFZA-regulated free zones in Nigeria have secured over $24 billion in investments, accommodated more than 200 enterprises, and created hundreds of thousands of direct and indirect jobs. This underscores the value of robust incentives and effective regulation in accelerating industrialization.

    “Accordingly, OGFZA supports the call for a ten-year extension of existing tax incentives, coupled with a phased implementation to mitigate potential disruptions. Many of our licensees, including prominent foreign investors, formulate strategies spanning 10, 15, or even 25 years, predicated on prevailing incentives. Granting this transitional period would reinforce the Renewed Hope Agenda and uphold policy consistency, a cornerstone for attracting sustained investment.

    “As the apex regulator of oil and gas free zones and administrator of the one-stop-shop framework, OGFZA remains integral to their enduring viability. Our efforts have been recognized through prestigious accolades, including the Best Federal Agency on Ease of Doing Business award from the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) in 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2024, as well as the Financial Times’ FDI Magazine designation as the best specialized free zone in 2018.” 

    The OGFZA helmsman commended the President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as “his visionary leadership,” even as he thanked the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and the Minister of State, Senator John Enoh, for “their steadfast guidance and advocacy in supporting the sector.” 

    He said under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, “Exports from Nigeria’s oil and gas free zones have surged to 496,537,804 metric tons, generating substantial foreign exchange inflows. Our operators now supply markets in Brazil, the United States, France, India, the United Kingdom, the Republic of Korea, and beyond, aligning seamlessly with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

    He reiterated OGFZA’s readiness to “sustain collaboration with FIRS, in accordance with our memorandum of understanding, to ensure the tax reforms are executed efficiently and equitably.” 

    Executive Chairman of FIRS, Dr. Zacch Adedeji argued, “The 2025 tax reforms mark a significant step in modernizing Nigeria’s fiscal frameworks.”

    “For Export Processing and Free Trade Zones, the focus is not on taxation of income or profits of Zone entities, but on promoting transparency, accountability and proper reporting. By embracing compliance, collaboration and commitment to respecting obligations imposed by relevant tax laws, Free Trade zones can meaningfully contribute to national development, which is the very essence for implementing the Special Economic zones scheme,” he explained.

    Represented by the Special Adviser on Tax Incentive Management, Dr. Cletus Adie, the FIRS boss condemned what he described as “continuous recalcitrant behaviours of some enterprises”, that have “motivated the deployment of a deliberate and structured administrative strategy that compels compliance by all enterprises, supported by section 72 (4) (f ) of the Nigerian Tax Administration Act. 

    Accordingly, the need for the implementation of tax clearance certificate as a mandatory requirement for issuance of renewal of operating license has become crucial,” he stressed.

    Stakeholders at the event unanimously called for the exemption for operators in special economic and free zones from the new tax law provisions, to enable them adjust.

    Highlights of the event were special presentations, interactive, as well as question and answer session, among others.