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  • FG fulfills housing, land pledges to Super Eagles for 2023 AFCON feat

    FG fulfills housing, land pledges to Super Eagles for 2023 AFCON feat

    The Federal Government has fulfilled its housing and land pledges to Super Eagles players for their runner-up finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.

    The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had confirmed that players received certificates for the allocated plots of land and housing units promised by President Bola Tinubu.

    Similarly, Promise Efoghe, the Media Officer of the Super Eagles told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)  that the documents were presented to the players at the team’s camp in Fes, Morocco, on Monday.

    Nigeria finished second at the tournament, played in 2024, after a 2–1 defeat to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final.

    On their return, Tinubu hosted the team at the Presidential Villa and conferred the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on each squad member.

    The president also approved a plot of land in the Federal Capital Territory and a flat for every player in recognition of their performance.

    NAN also reports that certificates were also presented to the players as instruments of conferment of OON by Sen. Abdul Ningi, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Sports and the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi.

    Speaking at the presentation, NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, said the gesture underscored the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to Nigerian sports.

    Gusau said, “The president graciously promised houses and lands, as well as national honours, and today those promises are being fulfilled.

    “There was no reason to begin another AFCON campaign without honouring that pledge. This shows seriousness and respect for the players.”

    He expressed confidence in the team’s prospects at the tournament in Morocco.

    “We have prepared with the clear objective of winning the trophy. Success here will lift the spirits of Nigerians everywhere,” he said.

    Gusau added that the federation maintained high standards in travel, accommodation and logistics despite global economic challenges.

    “It has not been easy, but the players deserve comfort and respect. We must always find ways to support them,” Gusau added.

    He expressed confidence in the technical crew and players to make the nation proud.

    Shehu Dikko, Chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC), said government resolved to deliver all promises before the tournament began.

    “It was a firm decision of government that every promise must be fulfilled before our first AFCON match,” Dikko said.

    He recalled delays in fulfilling similar promises in the past.

    “Previously, such pledges took nearly 20 years. This time, we acted promptly to show a new trajectory for Nigerian sports,” he said.

    Dikko described the development as a reflection of the Renewed Hope agenda.

    “Whatever President Bola Tinubu promises, he delivers on time. This is about trust, motivation and shared prosperity,” he added.

    Nigeria will face Tanzania in their opening Group C match on Tuesday at Complexe Sportif de Fès stadium, Fez city, Morocco from 5:30 p.m.

    The Super Eagles arrived in Fez on Dec. 18 aboard a chartered flight from their final training camp in Cairo.

    Nigeria will also face Tunisia on Saturday and Uganda on Dec. 30, as they seek a fourth continental title. (NAN)

  • Fed Govt: no going back on Tax Law from Jan. 1

    Fed Govt: no going back on Tax Law from Jan. 1

    • Gains of Tinubu’s Administration, by Information Minister Idris

    The Federal Government yesterday affirmed that it would proceed with the implementation of the new tax laws with effect from January 1 as planned.

    Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the government had followed due process of extensive consultations, legislative deliberations, approvals and final enactment by the President.

    According to him, the government has only one version of the new tax laws, which was duly processed by the National Assembly and signed by the President.

    “Government is going ahead with commencement of implementation, noting as changed,” Idris said last night.

    Against the background of reports of alterations in the gazetted copy of the new Tax Administration Act, Idris, who spoke at a news conference in Abuja, said the executive arm would expect a report of a probe by the National Assembly, where the issue of alleged alteration was raised.

    He said: “I think it is important for us to wait for the National Assembly to look at this again to tell us whether there were discrepancies or not.

    “This is, at this point, an affair of the National Assembly to which I have no jurisdiction, and I have no authority to speak about.

    “As far as the government of Nigeria is concerned, there’s only one version of that tax document.”

    Idris spoke during a review of the activities of the Tinubu Administration in 2025, where he listed the gains and challenges.

    Idris’ position was reechoed by Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, and immediate past Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. Muhammad Nami.

    Oyedele cautioned against drawing conclusions based on documents circulating in the public space, insisting that some of the materials being referenced were not authentic.

    According to him, there was confusion over what constituted the final, legally binding version of the bill passed by the National Assembly.

    He explained that the only authoritative version of the bill would be the harmonised copy certified by the Clerk of the National Assembly and transmitted to the President.

    He said: “The official harmonised bills certified by the clerk, which the National Assembly sent to the President, we don’t have a copy to compare. Only the lawmakers can say authoritatively what was sent…

    “Even I cannot say that I have it. I only have what was presented to Mr President to sign.”

    Oyedele also shed light on a controversial provision that had circulated widely, particularly Section 41(8), which suggested that a 20 per cent deposit would be required.

    Read Also: Group demands suspension of tax law

    He said he contacted the House of Representatives Committee on the issue, only to be told that the committee had not met to take any decision.

    “I know that particular provision is not in the final gazette, but it was in the draft gazette,” he said, adding that the situation appeared to have been complicated by premature actions taken by unnamed individuals.

    “Some people decided that they should write the report of the committee before the committee had met, and it had circulated everywhere,” Oyedele said.

    He stressed that the document circulating in the media did not originate from the committee set up by the House of Representatives and urged the public to allow lawmakers to carry out their investigation.

    “What is out there in the media did not come from the committee set up by the House of Representatives. I think we should allow them to do their investigation,” Oyedele said on Channel Television’s Morning Brief.

    Nami, in a statement, said the issue at hand does not call for protest or jettisoning of the new tax framework, but a careful investigation, restoration and punishment of anyone found to have compromised the process.

    He expressed concern over attempts to discard what he described as carefully developed tax laws that resulted from years of research, investment and legislative work by the National Assembly, a process he said began in 2022.

    According to him, abandoning those efforts would amount to wasting scarce national resources and weakening institutional credibility.

    He maintained that the most sensible path forward was for Nigerians to stand with the National Assembly, which is working to ensure peace and prevent the waste of resources already invested in the tax reform project.

    Nami expressed confidence that, with firm and coordinated action, the country could still implement the new tax provisions by January 2026.

    According to him, the reforms were designed to block leakages in the tax system, boost revenue to fund economic growth and development programmes, support debt servicing and budget deficits at all levels of government, roll out social welfare initiatives, strengthen security and deliver world-class infrastructure capable of attracting foreign direct investment.

    He said: “Indeed, numerous provisions encourage governments at all levels to prioritise taxing prosperity over poverty and fruits over seeds so that SMEs can grow and provide employment opportunities to our youth, ultimately becoming taxpayers in the future.”

    Nami, however, alleged that the alterations to the Tax Administration Act were carried out at the point of gazetting by yet-to-be-identified individuals, without the knowledge or approval of either the Presidency or the National Assembly.

    House of Representatives Speaker  Abbas Tajudeen constituted an investigating committee following an allegation of alterations by a member of the House from Sokoto State, Abdulsamad Dasuki.

    Rising under a matter of privilege, Dasuki, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alleged that the tax laws passed by both the House and the Senate were different from the tax laws gazetted and currently in circulation.

    Speaker Abbas then told members that the leadership has decided to investigate the matter with a view to ascertaining the truth behind the allegations.

    The members of the committee to investigate the allegations are Aliyu Mukthar Betara (Chairman), Ahmed Idris Wase, James Abiodun Faleke, Fred Agbedi, Igarewey Iduma Enwo and Babajimi Benson.

    The committee was mandated to investigate the alleged doctoring of the tax reform laws.

    Abbas, who announced the composition of the committee, however, did not give them a specific time frame to conclude their work, but asked them to investigate the allegations and report back to the House.

    President Tinubu signed four major tax reform bills into law, an action the Federal Government described as the most far-reaching overhaul of Nigeria’s tax system in decades.

    The laws are scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2026, following their passage amid intense debates and stiff opposition from some lawmakers from the northern part of the country.

    The laws comprise the Nigeria Tax Act, the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act, all to operate under a unified authority known as the Nigeria Revenue Service.

    According to the government, the reforms are aimed at simplifying tax compliance, expanding the tax base, removing multiple and overlapping taxes, and modernising revenue collection across federal, state and local governments.

    The idea of tax reform was kicked against by many interests, including some governors.

    At a point, the National Economic Council (NEC) requested the Bills’ withdrawal from the National Assembly, but the President declined, asking those with misgivings to express them during the public hearing.

    After more consultations, the Bills were passed to the President’s delight.

  • Uzodimma, AbdulRazaq, Alia present N1.439tr, N644.4b, N605.5b 2026 budgets to Houses of Assembly

    Uzodimma, AbdulRazaq, Alia present N1.439tr, N644.4b, N605.5b 2026 budgets to Houses of Assembly

    Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma yesterday presented a budget proposal of a N1.439 trillion for the 2026 fiscal year to the House of Assembly.

    Presenting the Appropriation Bill, named: “Budget of Economic Breakthrough,” Uzodimma said the figure represents a 78 per cent increase over the N807 billion budget of 2025.

    The governor said the proposal consists of 83.4 per cent capital expenditure and 16.6 per cent recurrent expenditure with substantial allocations for health, works, and power sectors to support economic growth.

    Uzodimma said the budget was predicated on improved federal allocation and internally generated revenue (IGR).

    The governor announced that he intended to eradicate “a generator-based power economy and provide world-class infrastructure to facilitate economic breakthrough”.

    The proposed Recurrent Expenditure is N238,499,999,653, covering personnel costs, overheads, and subventions, while the total projected capital expenditure is N1,201,073,590,752.04.

    Uzodimma said the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has N20.506 billion, while the Health Ministry will get N698.163 billion.

    The governor also said the Ministry of Works and Infrastructural Development is allocated N87.727 billion, while the Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition will get N6.471 billion.

    The Ministry of Power and Electrification is allocated N190.451 billion; the Education Ministry has N60.623 billion, while the Ministry of Rural Development is allocated N15.106 billion

    Read Also: UPDATED: Uzodimma presents ₦1.439 trillion budget to Imo Assembly

    Uzodimma expressed gratitude to the House of Assembly, acknowledging its collaboration in passing Bills that have uplifted the citizens.

    Speaker Chike Olemgbe expressed hope that the budget would usher in increased and improved power generation, increased infrastructural projects, improved healthcare and increased human capital development as well as sustained food security.

    Deputy Speaker Amarachi Iwuanyanwu (Nwangele) hailed the governor for diligently piloting the affairs of the state.

    In Kwara State, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq yesterday presented N644.4 billion 2026 Appropriation Bill to the state House of Assembly.

    The governor said 65.95 per cent of the fiscal plan would be expended on capital expenditure, while the remaining would go into recurrent expenses, such as supporting the poor and doubling down on workers’ welfare.

    He said the fiscal plan would focus more on finishing ongoing capital projects and breaking ground for new ones that align with the strategic needs of the state. 

    “These allocations point the direction we are headed in the new year. We will focus more on completing ongoing projects and invest in areas of urgent needs such as security hardware, vehicles, and technologies to enhance our response to kidnapping and activities of bad-faith actors.

    “A few other projects are also planned to consolidate Kwara’s position as the strongest service, creative, and tech economy in Northern Nigeria.

    “The ‘Budget of Consolidation and Sustained Growth’ is built around the following national economic outlook for the year: oil price of U.S. $64.85; daily oil production estimates of 1.84 million barrels per day; an exchange rate of N1,400 per U.S. dollar; and a GDP growth of 4.68 per cent.

    “We are confident that our projects, once completed, will expand the economic base of the state, make the environment more conducive for business, provide fertile grounds for job creation and sustainable development, and free up more resources to deepen social protection for the poor,” AbdulRazaq said.

    “We believe in the well-being of every segment of our state. This is evident in not just the size of the plan that goes into Economic Affairs (26.46 per cent) but also in the pragmatic inclusion that defines our administration. For instance, I have recently approved an adjustment to what the Medical Officers earn to attract and retain professionals for the good of our people.

    “A new Teachers Salary Allowance (TSA) will be implemented in 2026 to further support our teachers and complement our infrastructural upgrades across the health and education sectors. Also, we are making massive investments in Alfalfa Estate to reduce the herder-farmers clash, support food security, and empower thousands of our people in the value chain…”

    Also, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia yesterday presented ₦605,506,764,066.16 budget estimates to the House of Assembly in Makurdi for consideration and passage.

    Alia told the lawmakers that the proposed 2026 Appropriation Bill, tagged: “Budget of Rural Development, Livelihood Support and Sustained Growth,” is a deliberate strategy aimed at repositioning the state’s economy and improving the living standards of the residents.

    The governor described the proposed budget as a practical roadmap to inclusive growth, stressing that economic progress must translate into better living conditions for ordinary households.

    The sum of N281,086,430,485.05 is expected to fund the recurrent expenditure, accounting for 46.4 per cent of the total budget size of 2026. This amount, Alia said, represents a 21.69 per cent increment over the total recurrent cost of the revised 2025 budget.

    The governor added: “These votes will account for the sustenance of the payment of minimum wage and other incidental costs associated with our overheads.”

    A total of N342,420,333,581.10 is allocated to capital expenditure.

    He emphasised that transforming the state requires targeted investments that unlock rural productivity and improve everyday living conditions.

    “Transforming our rural economy is not an option, it is a necessity. This budget prioritises targeted investments in roads, infrastructure, and activities that will unlock rural productivity and improve quality of life.

    “We will embark on a phased rehabilitation and construction of feeder roads linking farming communities to major markets, processing clusters to distribution hubs, and rural areas to health and educational facilities.

    “This will reduce post-harvest losses, lower transport costs, and stimulate local commerce. We have allocated 30.23 per cent of the capital budget to the development of rural roads, feeder roads, and bridges. Our goal is simple: connect farmers to markets, children to schools, and communities to essential services,” Alia said.

    The major key priority areas in the proposed 2026 budget are the sustained growth agenda, covering the Education and Health sectors, investment, infrastructure for long-term competitiveness, as well as innovation and digital transformation, with an allocation of 55.66 per cent. Rural Development agenda comprises Rural Electrification, Water Supply, Environmental Protection and Agriculture, and Agro-Industrial Development with an allocation of 30.23 per cent of the capital budget.

    Livelihood Support with Social Protection Programmes, MSME Growth and Cooperative Development is allocated 14.11 per cent of the budget.

    Reviewing the performance of the 2025 fiscal year, the Governor acknowledged the economic pressures and security challenges but highlighted major gains across critical sectors.

    He stressed that security coordination was strengthened through the deployment of 5,000 personnel of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, working alongside federal agencies and community structures to restore relative peace in previously affected areas.

  • Freed Niger pupils, teachers received by governor

    Freed Niger pupils, teachers received by governor

    • CDS applauds troops’ courage in rescue operation

    The rescued 130 pupils and teachers, who had spent nearly one month in captivity, were handed over to the Niger State Government yesterday by security agencies.

    Also yesterday, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, commended troops for their bravery, professionalism and swift response in the successful rescue of the remaining 130 pupils/teachers of St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, in Niger State.

    100 pupils were earlier released through coordinated efforts by the Federal Government.

    Receiving the freed abductees in Minna, Governor Umar Bago expressed gratitude to God and security agencies for the successful rescue, describing it as unprecedented in Nigeria’s history.

    “It has never happened like this in Nigeria, for such a large number of abducted persons to be rescued unhurt,” Bago said.

    Addressing concerns over discrepancies in the number of abducted pupils, the governor explained that initial confusion arose due to panic and poor record-keeping.

    “The information available to the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Department of State Services was that about 230 pupils and teachers were abducted. Any discrepancies will be addressed by the school authorities and the Catholic Church,” he said.

    Bago said the release of the children would allow families to celebrate Christmas in joy, adding that arrangements were underway to reunite the pupils with their parents after medical examinations.

    On whether ransom was paid, the governor said: “I don’t think it is fair to ask whether money was paid or not. The most important thing is that the children have been recovered unharmed. How it was done is for us to know.”

    The governor also expressed concern over the practice of admitting very young children into boarding schools, describing it as irresponsible.

    “It is heartbreaking to see children as young as two or three years old in captivity. This is something we will review. The state will no longer condone underage boarding, and schools engaging in such practices will be scrutinised,” he said.

    He thanked President Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army and other stakeholders for their collective efforts in securing the children’s release.

    Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre and representative of the National Security Adviser, Adamu Garba Laka, attributed the success of the operation to sustained and coordinated efforts by security agencies.

    “This rescue followed the directive of the Commander-in-Chief and involved intense collaboration among the Office of the National Security Adviser, the DSS, the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police and other partners,” Laka said.

    He reaffirmed the commitment of the Office of the NSA to protecting lives and ensuring that education does not become a casualty of violence.

    “We are implementing immediate protective measures in high-risk areas and working with state governments, traditional and religious leaders to develop sustainable community-based security solutions,” he said.

    The rescued pupils arrived at the Niger State Government House at about 3:35 p.m. in six buses under heavy security, escorted by armoured vehicles. They were received by Governor Bago before being taken into a hall for the handover ceremony.

    Read Also: Niger pupils’ abduction: Bandits hike ransom to N200m

    Security operatives prevented journalists from interacting with the children and teachers, while parents were not present at the venue despite news of the rescue spreading since Sunday night.

    Proprietor of St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools and Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, was also absent. He was represented by the state CAN Vice Chairman.

    CDS General Olufemi Oluyede gave the commendation, according to a statement by the Director of Defence Media, Major General Michael Onoja, which described the operation as a reflection of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to national security and the protection of innocent lives.

    According to him, the rescue operation underscored the military’s resolve to confront criminal elements and ensure the safety of vulnerable citizens, particularly children.

    “Troops’ sacrifices and dedication to duty are highly appreciated and have justified the confidence the nation reposes in the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” General Oluyede said.

    He added that the military remains steadfast in sustaining operational momentum and adapting to emerging security challenges across the country.

    “We reaffirm our commitment to professionalism, inter-agency collaboration and the protection of civilians. With the continued support of the government and the cooperation of the public, the Armed Forces will persist in its efforts to secure the nation and ensure lasting peace and stability,” the CDS stated.

    The Defence Chief further called on Nigerians to support security initiatives, especially in light of the emergency measures declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He said: “This is a time for collective responsibility and solidarity. Every partnership will aid government efforts to protect lives, restore stability and speed recovery efforts.

    “Together, we can overcome this challenge and reaffirm our commitment to peace, resilience and progress.”

    General Oluyede also paid tribute to military veterans, noting that their sacrifices and professionalism laid the foundation for the modern Armed Forces of Nigeria.

    “Their leadership shaped doctrine, strengthened command structures and instilled enduring values of discipline, loyalty and service before self,” he said.

    He added that their legacy continues to guide the present generation of officers and soldiers.

  • JUST IN: FG declares armed groups as terrorists

    JUST IN: FG declares armed groups as terrorists

    …outlines economic gains of Tinubu’s administration

    ….ambassadors to be deployed in 2026

    From: and Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja 

    The Federal Government on Monday declared all armed groups operating in the country as terrorist groups.

    The government said that, henceforth, any armed group that kidnaps children, attacks farmers, or terrorises communities is officially classified and will be dealt with as a terrorist organisation. 

    It insisted that the era of ambiguous nomenclature was over.

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who made the declaration in Abuja at a press conference, also outlined economic gains of 2025.

    He said, “In the area of security, 2025 saw the presidential declaration of a nationwide security emergency, which will, in the months ahead, translate into massive recruitment into the Armed Forces and Police Force, and the deployment of trained and equipped Forest Guards to secure our forests and other vulnerable locations.

    ‎”We have also established, in 2025, a new national counterterrorism doctrine—anchored on four critical pillars: unified command, intelligence, community stability, and counterinsurgency.

    ‎”Let me be clear about what this means: That henceforth, any armed group that kidnaps our children, attacks our farmers, or terrorizes our communities is officially classified and will be dealt with as a terrorist organization. The era of ambiguous nomenclature is over.

    The Minister also expressed President Bola Tinubu’s government’s determination to contain insecurity in the country as reflected in the 2026 budget and declaration of a State of emergency on security.

    The Minister, who was beaming with smiles, also confirmed the return of the remaining 130 pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, Niger State.

    He said they were released due to the efforts of our security agencies.

    He said, “It is appropriate we start this end-of-year press conference by reemphasizing the good news that came yesterday from the Office of the National Security Adviser, that the abducted 130 pupils of the St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, Niger State, were released yesterday (Sunday).

    “With this development, it can be confirmed that all the abducted pupils, numbering 230, have been freed. Not a single pupil is left in captivity due to the efforts of our security agencies.”

    He also noted that the Federal Government empathizes with the parents of the pupils for the anguish the abduction has caused them, and wishes them a pleasant family reunion, a good healing process, Compliments of the Season, and a Merry Christmas.”

    He also noted that the government has taken strong actions to ensure that no abduction of pupils ever happens in the country again.

    Idris said the mission of 2026 is to raise the edifice of a secure, competitive, and prosperous Nigeria upon it.

    The minister also said the presidential declaration of a nationwide security emergency, “will in the months ahead translate into massive recruitment into the Armed Forces and Police Force, and the deployment of trained and equipped Forest Guards to secure our forests and other vulnerable locations.”

    The minister also highlighted that the 2026 budget’s blueprint for security is huge, with the single biggest allocation of N5.41 trillion to Defence and Security.

    He said it is a direct investment in protecting lives, property, and prosperity, through modern equipment for our armed forces, a new national intelligence architecture, and a secure digital border surveillance system.”

    He added, “The temporary pains of reform are yielding to permanent gains. President Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria is big, his strategy unambiguous, and his resolve unshakeable. We are consolidating stability, protecting our homeland, empowering our youth, and building a nation where every citizen has the agency to thrive,” he stressed. This is the Nigeria we are building together. Nigeria, truly on the move.”

    On the administration’s performance in 2025, the minister said all indices indicated an upward swing.

    He noted, “Our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 3.98% in the third quarter of 2025, demonstrating resilient and sustained expansion in the non-oil sector.

    “Significantly, headline inflation has now declined for eight consecutive months, to stand at 14.45% in November 2025. Food inflation is also on a steady downward trend.

    “Our external reserves have strengthened to approximately $44.56 billion, providing a robust buffer that stabilises our currency and assures international investors.

    “Nigeria recorded a trade surplus of N6.69 trillion in the third quarter of 2025, a 27.29 percent growth year-on-year.

    “The most recent Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) data – an important measure of business sentiment – indicates that Nigeria has now seen 12 consecutive months of expansion in economic activities.”

    In the area of power, the Minister said the country recorded the highest ever daily energy of 128 370.75 mega hours nationwide.

    He said, “On March 4, 2025, Nigeria recorded a maximum daily energy of 128,370.75 megawatt-hours (MWh) nationwide—the highest ever in our history.

    “Also in the power sector, 2025 saw the kick-off of the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI), as well as the issuance of the first Bond under the Presidential Power Sector Debt Reduction Programme, the single largest coordinated financial intervention in the history of our power sector.”

    The nation also recorded an increase in investors‘ confidence with massively oversubscribed government-issued bonds.

    “A massively oversubscribed Eurobond issuance, attracting orders amounting to 400% of the target of $2.3 billion USD, demonstrating strong investor confidence in our macroeconomic reforms.”

    Also, in the year under review, he said, “Nigeria exited the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List, reflecting sustained and coordinated reforms in combating money laundering, terrorist financing and other financial crimes, and marking the start of a new reputational and operational chapter for our financial sector.”

    President Tinubu in 2025 also approved the recapitalization of the Bank of Agriculture with N1.5 trillion – the biggest single boost to agriculture financing in our recent history.

    The government also invested over N1.5 trillion on infrastructure.

    “We committed to deploying over 1.5 trillion Naira in investments in road infrastructure in 2025 alone, the largest such commitment in our nation’s history, based on our firm belief that an economy cannot grow faster than the infrastructure that supports it. At the heart of this effort are our Four Legacy Highway Projects, engineered to connect every region and unlock new economic corridors:

    *The 750-kilometer Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, linking our entire southern coastline.

    *The 1,068-kilometer Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, bridging the North-West to the South-West.

    *The 477-kilometer Trans-Saharan Highway, traversing from Calabar to the FCT.

    *The 422-kilometer Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe Expressway, integrating the North-Central and North-East.”

    He explained that the projects are not conventional roads, “They are being built with reinforced concrete pavement designed to last 50 to 100 years, drastically cutting future maintenance costs and promoting local content. Empowering the next generation.”

    The minister also outlined government programmes aimed at empowering the youth, which include: “The Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has now supported over 788,000 Nigerian students with interest-free loans and stipends amounting to over 150 billion Naira.

    “The Federal Government of Nigeria’s Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme officially kicked off during the year, with an anchor investment in a new multi-million-dollar venture fund that will support the creative and digital entrepreneurship aspirations of young Nigerians.

    “In 2025, the Federal Government launched the Student Venture Capital Grant (S-VCG), offering equity-free financing of up to ₦50 million for undergraduate innovators in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) disciplines, across accredited tertiary institutions. With this new intervention, we are nurturing the seeds of entrepreneurship in our campuses and turning our brightest minds into job creators, not just job seekers.

    “The Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme made significant progress during the year, as it built Africa’s largest digital army. A new security architecture.”

    The minister also disclosed that the recently cleared Ambassadorial nominees will resume at their posts in the coming year.

    The Senate last week cleared 67 ambassadorial nominees appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The president had in 2023 recalled all the country’s ambassadors.

    Following the clearance by the Senate, the ambassadorial nominees will undergo orientation before their posting.

    Idris disclosed at his end of year press conference in Abuja that their resumption will boost the country’s engagements at the global level.

    “In 2026, our newly appointed Ambassadors will take up their posts in their countries of assignment, strengthening our bilateral relations and advancing our visibility and strategic engagements in the global community,” he said.

    On the global stage, the Minister said Nigeria has become a respected global player.

    Besides, he said Nigeria has been able to resolve its issues with the United States amicably through diplomatic means.

    He therefore said Nigeria-US relations are not damaged.

    “On the international stage, in 2025, we navigated complex international diplomacy with maturity and principle. The recent diplomatic spat with the United States has been resolved through firm, respectful engagement, culminating in a strengthened partnership,” he said.

    To underscore his claim, the Minister revealed that Nigeria and the U.S recently signed a five-year bilateral health agreement running into over N5 billion. 

    “Just last week, the Federal Government of Nigeria signed a five-year, $5.1B bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of the United States, in which the US will provide $2.1B in grant funding, while Nigeria commits $3 billion. This has been described as the largest co-investment by any country to date under the America First Global Health Strategy. It will strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, save lives, and attract investment.

    “Indeed, Nigeria is no longer on the sidelines; we are a confident and strategic partner on the global stage, defending our national interests and attracting beneficial partnerships. Just last month, we regained our Category C seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium, a celebrated comeback following 14 years of absence.

    “Also in 2025, various Nigerians assumed significant international positions across various sectors, including Chairperson of the Council of the World Customs Organisation, Executive Director of the World Health Organisation’s Health Emergencies Programme, Vice Chair of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council, and Vice President of the International Association for Ports and Harbours in Tokyo. Additionally, this year we secured hosting rights for the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) 2026, and the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027, one of the largest trade gatherings on the African continent.”

    In the media, information, and communications space, the minister said in 2025, Nigeria secured the hosting rights for both the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) and the 2026 African Public Relations Association (APRA) Conference. We made history by becoming only the second African country ever to host the WPRF, and the first ever to host both the APRA Conference and the WPRF in the same year.

    “We also received official affirmation from UNESCO of the hosting right granted to Nigeria for the world’s first Media & Information Literacy (MIL) Institute, and I am delighted to note that the Institute will officially take off in the first quarter of 2026.

    On the allegation of alteration of the tax act, the minister said the general public should wait for the outcome of the investigation panel set up by the National Assembly.

    Idris neither denied nor confirmed the allegation as he noted that he had yet to see it.

    “To be honest with you, I have not seen the two versions. All I know is that the executive has presented something to the National Assembly. It was processed, it was passed, and it was returned to the executive. What I heard is that the National Assembly members have seen some discrepancy and they have set up their own committee to look at those discrepancies.

     “I think it is important for us to wait for the National Assembly to look at this again to tell us that yes, indeed, there were discrepancies or not. 

    “This is at this point an affair of the National Assembly to which I have no jurisdiction, and I have no, you know, the authority to speak about. 

    “Let’s wait for this from the National Assembly, and then, if required to make further clarifications, we can. But at this point, we know that the tax document has been put forward to the National Assembly. 

    “They have worked on it, and they have returned it, and it has been passed, and it has been signed into law.

    “As far as the government of Nigeria is concerned, there’s only one version of that tax document.”

  • JUST IN: Niger Govt receives 130 rescued Papiri schoolchildren, teachers

    JUST IN: Niger Govt receives 130 rescued Papiri schoolchildren, teachers

    …state to review the minimum age limit for boarding schools

    …Church, School to address errors in figures – Bago

    The remaining 130 abducted children and teachers of St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, have been handed over to the Niger State Government, bringing relief to families and the wider community ahead of the Christmas season.

    Speaking to journalists after the handover, Niger State Governor, Umaru Mohammed, said discrepancies surrounding the initial figures reported would be clarified by the school authorities and the Catholic Church.

    He explained that security agencies had earlier worked with a total figure of about 230 abductees, including teachers.

    “The information available to the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Department of State Services was that there were about 230 persons involved, including teachers. Now we have been able to get them back,” the governor said. “I don’t want us to dwell on the numbers. I’m sure the church and the school understand where the errors came from. Panic at the initial stage could have contributed to the confusion.”

    The governor said the successful release of the remaining abductees would allow parents to reunite with their children and celebrate Christmas in joy. “We are hopeful that we will reunite these people with their families immediately, by the grace of God, so they can celebrate Christmas together,” he said.

    When asked whether ransom was paid to secure the release of the children, the governor declined to comment, insisting that such details were not for public discussion.

    “I don’t think it is fair to the system or to the government to ask whether money was paid or not. The most important thing is that these children were recovered unharmed. How it was done is for us to know,” he stated.

    Governor Mohammed also expressed concern over what he described as irresponsible parenting, particularly the practice of sending very young children to boarding schools.

    He said the state would no longer condone the boarding of underage children and would review the operations of schools engaged in such practices.

    “It is very irresponsible for parents to put children of two or three years old in boarding facilities,” he said. “What we have seen here is deeply touching. Seeing children as young as two years old in captivity is unbearable. These issues will be reviewed, not just in this school but across others operating in this manner.”

    The governor said the sight of the children underscored the trauma they endured in captivity, but expressed gratitude that they were rescued alive. He thanked God for their safe return, noting that the ordeal was “scary and heartbreaking.”

    He added that arrangements were already underway to reunite the children with their parents, stating that they would first undergo medical examinations. According to him, the handover process to families is expected to be completed by the following day.

    He appreciated the President, the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Service, the Nigerian Army, and everybody for their support, saying that this would not have been possible without everybody’s hands on deck.

    The Governor said that the rescue of the children is unprecedented in the history of Nigeria, as it is rarely possible that a large number of people were abducted and rescued unhurt, “it has never happened like this in Nigeria, for you to get everybody back unhurt.”

    The representative of the National Security Adviser (NSA) who is the Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Center, Adamu Garba Laka said that the rescue was due to the sustained efforts of the Department of State Services and the General Officer Commanding two Division, the Nigerian Army, with the guidance of the Chief of Army Staff, played a significant role in ensuring the success of this operation.

    “It is with profound humility and a deep sense of duty that I am here on behalf of the National Security Advisor to formally announce the rescue and formally handover the remaining 130 victims, both teachers and students of St. Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, Aguara Local Government Area, who were abducted on the 21st of November 2025.

    “This rescue was a result of the directive of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and intense and coordinated operations by the National Security Advisor in conjunction with the Department of State Services, the Armed Forces, the Nigerian Police, other security agencies and international partners, which has yielded another landmark achievement of rescuing the victims unhurt.

    Read Also: Niger Govt denies banning preachers, says move aims to sanitise religious sector

    He then reaffirmed the commitment of the Office of the National Security Advisor to the security of every Nigerian, adding that they will continue to lead and coordinate measures to protect communities and institutions across the country.

    “We are implementing immediate short-term protective measures in high-risk areas while concurrently working with state governments, traditional and religious leaders to develop lasting community-based security solutions. For education, it must not be a casualty of violence. We will continue to pursue policies and operations to restore confidence, reopen schools safely, and ensure that the right of every Nigerian child to learn in safety is upheld.”

    The children arrived at the Niger state Government at about 3.35 pm amid tight security. They arrived in six white buses with security armoured vehicles at the back and the front. They were received by the state Governor before they were moved into the hall for the handover ceremony.

    The released students and teachers were under tight security by the officials of the DSS, as they were not allowed to speak to anyone apart from the security personnel. Moves made by journalists to speak to the children and teachers were rebuffed by the security agents.

    No parents of the released abducted children were on the ground to see the children, despite information about their rescue had gone out since Sunday night.

    The Proprietor of St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, who is also the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, was also not on ground to receive the children; he was represented by the state CAN Vice Chairman.

  • BREAKING: Edo Assembly asks Okpebholo to take possession of MOWAA, Radisson Blu Hotel

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

    Edo State House of Assembly ad-hoc committees set up to investigate funding and ownership of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) and the Radisson Blu Hotel have recommended that Governor Monday Okpebholo to take possession of both investments.

    This was contained in the report the Committee submitted.

    Former Governor Godwin Obaseki, management of MOWAA and other invited persons refused to appear before the Committee.

    Lawyer to MOWAA, Barr. Olayiwola Afolabi, said his client would not appear before the Committee because the matter was already in court.

    Read Also: Is Edo rising under Okpebholo?

    He said any recommendation by the Committee would be subjected to the court.

    In its report, the Committee said it found out that the land titles and funding for the two projects were from the Edo State Government.

    Details shortly…

  • JUST IN: Uzodimma presents N1.439tr. 2026 budget to Imo Assembly

    JUST IN: Uzodimma presents N1.439tr. 2026 budget to Imo Assembly

    Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has presented a budget of ₦1.439 trillion for 2026 to the state House of Assembly. 

    Details shortly…

  • FULL LIST: 67 ambassadorial nominees confirmed by Senate

    FULL LIST: 67 ambassadorial nominees confirmed by Senate

    The Senate has confirmed 67 nominees as career and non-career ambassadors of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, endorsing a list that includes prominent political figures, former governors, ex-ministers and experienced diplomats.

    The confirmation followed the consideration and adoption of a report by the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, chaired by Senator Sani Bello (APC, Niger North), after several weeks of screening of nominees submitted by the Presidency.

    Presenting the report, Bello told the Senate that all the nominees who appeared before the committee were thoroughly screened and found suitable for their respective diplomatic postings. He said no petitions or adverse security reports were received against any of the nominees during the exercise.

    “The committee carefully examined the credentials, experience and competence of all the nominees and is satisfied that they are qualified to represent Nigeria in their proposed assignments,” Bello said.

    He disclosed that the nominee from Yobe State, who failed to appear before the Committee on Foreign Affairs for screening, was not included in the confirmed list.

    Meanwhile, Lateef Kayode Kolawole Are from Ogun State, Aminu Muhammad Dalhatu from Jigawa State, and Emmanuel Ayodele Oke, CFR, from Oyo State had been screened earlier.

    Here are 67 ambassadorial nominees confirmed by Senate

    CAREER AMBASSADORS (34):

    1. Abia: Ambassador Mwaobiola Ezeuwo Chukwuemeka

    2. Adamawa: Maimuna Ibrahim

    3. Anambra: Enpeji Monica Okochukwu

    4. Bauchi: Ambassador Mohammed Mahmoud Lele

    5. Bayelsa: Endoni Sindup

    6. Borno: Ambassador Ahmed Mohammed Monguno

    7. Cross River: Ambassador Jen Adams Ni Okun Michael

    Read Also: Senate panel grills ambassadorial nominees, clears three after intense screening

    8. Delta: Ambassador Clark Omeru Alexandra

    9. Ebonyi: Chima J. Leoma Davies

    10. Edo: Oduma Yvonne Ehinose

    11. Edo: Wasa Shogun Ige

    12. Ekiti: Ambassador Adeyemi Adebayo Emmanuel

    13. Enugu: Ambassador Onaga Ogechukwu Kingsley

    14. Jigawa: Ambassador Magaji Umar

    15. Kaduna: Ambassador Mohammed Saidu Dahiru

    16. Kano: Ambassador Abdul Salam Abus Zayat

    17. Katsina: Ambassador Shehu

    18. Katsina: Ambassador Aminu Nasu

    19. Kebbi: Abubakar Musa Musa

    20. Kebbi: Ambassador Haidara Mohammed Idris

    21. Kogi: Ambassador Bako Adamu Umar

    22. Kwara: Ambassador Sulu Gambari

    23. Lagos: Ambassador Romata Mohammed Omobolanle

    24. Nasarawa: Ambassador Shaga John Shama

    25. Niger: Salau Hamza Mohammed

    26. Niger: Ambassador Ibrahim Dan Lamy

    27. Ogun: Adjola Ibrahim Mopolola

    28. Ondo: Ruben Abimbola Samuel

    29. Osun: Ambassador Akonde Wahab Adekola

    30. Oyo: Ambassador Ariwani Adedokun Esther

    31. Plateau: Ambassador Gedagi Joseph John

    32. Rivers: Ambassador Luther Obomode Ayokatata

    33. Taraba: Danladi Yakubu Yaku

    34. Zamfara: Bidu Dogondagi

    NON-CAREER AMBASSADORS (30)

    35. Dr. Victor Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia)

    36. Barrister Ogbonnaya Kalu (Abia)

    37. Adamawa: Senator Grace Bent

    38. Akwa Ibom: Senator Eta Enang

    39. Anambra: Nkechi Linda Okocha

    40. Bauchi: Mahmoud Yakubu

    41. Bayelsa: Philip K. Ikurusi

    42. Benue: Paul Olga Adiku

    43. Cross River: Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (rtd.)

    44. Delta State: Reno Omokri

    45. Edo: Hon. Abbasi Brahma

    46. Ekiti: Erelu Angela Adebayo

    47. Ekiti: Barrister Olumilua Oluwayemika

    48. Enugu: Rt. Hon. Ugwanyi Ifeanyi

    49. Imo: Barr. Mrs. Chioma Ohakim

    50. Kano: Lt. Gen. Abdulrahman Bello Dambazau (rtd.)

    51. Katsina: Hon. Tasiu Musa Maigari

    52. Kogi: Alhaji Abubakar Sanusi Aliu

    53. Lagos: Olufemi Pedro

    54. Nasarawa: Barr. Mohammed Obanduma Aliu

    55. Ondo: Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, PhD

    56. Ondo: Ambassador Joseph Yusuf Shara’aji

    57. Osun: Fani-Kayode

    58. Oyo: Ajimobi Fatima Florence

    59. Oyo: Lola Akande

    60. Plateau: Yakubu N. Gambo

    61. Plateau: Senator Prof. Nora Ladi Daduut

    62. Rivers: Onweze Chukwudi

    63. Sokoto: Dr. Kulu Haruna Abubakar

    64. Taraba: Rt. Hon. Jerry Samuel Manwe

    FIRST BATCH CLEARED BY SENATE COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS

    65. Oyo State: Ayodele Oke

    66. Jigawa: Amin Mohammed Dalhatu

    67. Ogun: Retired Colonel Lateef Kayode Are

  • JUST IN: NSA visits Fubara, says president happy with governor

    JUST IN: NSA visits Fubara, says president happy with governor

    …Lagos-Calabar highway redesigned to pass through Ogoniland, says Umahi

    …30 Ogoni indigenes to begin work in NNPCL in January, says Ojulari

    The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has visited Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, conveying President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s satisfaction with the governor’s responsible leadership.

    Ribadu spoke during a courtesy visit to the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt, where he led a presidential delegation that included the Minister of Works, David Umahi; the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal; and top officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

    He described Rivers State as one of the most peaceful states in the country, noting that the federal government delegation was in the state to consolidate ongoing peace efforts in Ogoniland.

    According to Ribadu, a new chapter is unfolding in Ogoni, stressing that Nigeria “will no longer be what it used to be,” with the transformation beginning from the area.

    He said President Tinubu specifically directed him to commend Governor Fubara, expressing happiness with his leadership style and the manner in which he coordinated discussions on the resumption of oil exploration in Ogoniland.

    Ribadu also conveyed the President’s appreciation to the people of Ogoni for their support, patience and understanding throughout the process.

    The NSA further commended the Rivers State Government for providing a campus for the University of Environment and accommodating the Southsouth Zonal Office of the Office of the National Security Adviser.

    On his part, the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, described the Ogoni peace initiative as strategic to the renewed unity of Nigeria, noting that the President took a personal interest in the wellbeing of the Niger Delta people.

    Umahi assured that all sections of the East–West Road affecting the Niger Delta would be completed to standard. 

    He said that on Ogoniland, the 15km Eleme axis of the East–West Road included five flyovers, one of which was being constructed by the Rivers State Government to support the effort of the President. 

    He said the over N200bn project was scheduled for completion in April next year. 

    The minister also revealed that, with presidential approval, designs were ongoing to dualise the Bonny–Bodo Road from its starting point to the East–West Road, including the construction of two flyovers.

    Umahi added that the President had ordered a redesign of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Ogoniland.

    Also speaking, the Minister of Environment said the Ogoni cleanup project remained.a priority for the ministry. 

    He explained that projects recommended by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) were progressing well, including mangrove restoration, healthcare delivery, human capital development, and women empowerment initiatives.

    On his part, the NNPCL’s Bayo Ojulare, said the national oil company was fully committed to the Ogoni dialogue process. 

    He stressed that going forward, the focus would be on the people rather than oil.

    He disclosed that the employment of 30 Ogoni indigenes by NNPCL had reached the final stage, with appointment letters already issued and resumption scheduled for January 2026. 

    He described the developments in Ogoni as a model for a new Nigeria.

    In his response, Governor Siminalayi Fubara thanked President Tinubu for his intervention, saying it reflected the actions of a leader who genuinely loved Rivers State.

    The governor noted that resolving a crisis that lingered for over three decades in Ogoniland was not an easy task. 

    Read Also: Fubara highlights benefits of new housing development

    He said with the President’s intervention, residents could drive with ease along both ends of the East–West Road, connecting Bonny and Bayelsa.

    Fubara emphasised that beyond physical infrastructure, the President’s administration was rebuilding confidence in the region. 

    He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the peace process and managing emerging conflicts, noting that development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of crisis.

    He added that adjustments and compromises are necessary for sustainable development to take place. 

    The governor also appealed to Ogoni leaders to engage the youths to allow oil facility operators access to repair faulty equipment, in order to prevent fresh oil spills while environmental restoration is ongoing.