The Nation Newspaper

Category: Featured

  • JUST IN: Resident doctors end nationwide strike 

    JUST IN: Resident doctors end nationwide strike 

    The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has halted its nationwide strike, bringing an end to nearly a month of disruptions in federal and teaching hospitals.

    The industrial action, which started on November 1, was formally suspended on Saturday after the association’s Extraordinary National Executive Council (NEC) met to review negotiations with the Federal Government. 

    NARD’s Secretary General, Dr Shuaibu Ibrahim, confirmed the decision to suspend the industrial action.

    Shuaibu said the union stepped down the strike after both parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlining seven outstanding issues the government must address. 

    The issues, according to him, include recalling the dismissed resident doctors in Lokoja, issuing the long-awaited Professional Allowance Table, settling promotion and salary arrears in designated hospitals, upgrading doctors who passed Part I examinations, enforcing the correct entry point for new intakes, implementing specialist allowance, and resolving concerns around Membership Certificates.

    He noted that two conditions have already been implemented, “The Professional Allowance Table has now been released, and the Head of Service has been instructed to adopt CONMESS 3 as the entry level for doctors. With these fulfilled, we have suspended the strike,” he said.

    The remaining five items, he explained, are expected to be completed within four weeks under the timelines agreed in the MoU. 

    Shuaibu warned that the association will not hesitate to down tools again if government agencies fail to deliver. 

    “If the outstanding commitments are not met within the specified period, we will resume the strike,” he said.

    The industrial action had left hospitals nationwide overstretched, as roughly 11,000 resident doctors across 91 teaching hospitals withdrew their services in protest over poor working conditions and delayed entitlements.

  • Jonathan accuses Embaló of orchestrating ‘ceremonial coup’ in Guinea-Bissau

    Jonathan accuses Embaló of orchestrating ‘ceremonial coup’ in Guinea-Bissau

    …briefs Tinubu, seeks ECOWAS intervention

    …calls for the release of opposition presidential candidate

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan has alleged that Guinea-Bissau’s displaced leader, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, personally orchestrated the coup that disrupted the country’s electoral process last week, describing the incident as a “ceremonial coup” conducted by the head of state himself.

    Jonathan disclosed this to journalists after briefing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, on the escalating crisis.

    He urged ECOWAS to insist on the immediate release of detained opposition candidate, Fernando Dias da Costa, and the announcement of the country’s nearly concluded election results.

    “What happened in Guinea-Bissau? It is what some people call a palace coup. It’s not a palace coup. We know real coups. In Nigeria, we know a palace coup when we see one. This was not even a palace coup. I describe it as a ceremonial coup,” Jonathan told reporters.

    He added pointedly, “It was a ceremony conducted by the head of state himself.”

    The former Nigerian leader was in Guinea-Bissau as part of a joint AU–ECOWAS–West African Elders Forum observer mission when soldiers intervened before the final results of the November 23 presidential election could be declared.

    Soldiers loyal to Brigadier-General Dinis Incanha reportedly arrested Embaló on November 26, announcing that the armed forces had taken “total control” and later establishing a “High Military Command” led by General Horta Inta-A Na Man.

    However, rights groups and several diplomatic sources have since labelled the incident a “sham coup,” alleging that it was engineered to stall the publication of results and reset the political process in favour of Embaló’s allies.

    Speaking after his meeting with President Tinubu, Jonathan said it was standard practice for former leaders on continental assignments to give first-hand briefings ahead of ECOWAS deliberations.

    He urged regional leaders to act swiftly to safeguard constitutional order.

    “The key thing is that the election was concluded. Tallying of the results was almost concluded. In fact, the results are known, and the key thing is that the winner of this election must be announced,” he said.

    Jonathan stressed that ECOWAS must press the Guinea-Bissau military leadership to free Dias da Costa.

    “First, for them to release the opposition man, because the man has not committed any offence. He didn’t announce himself as the winner of the election… So there was no reason to arrest him”, he said.

    He urged ECOWAS leaders to engage the military directly, saying, “They cannot kick out the military with force; otherwise, people will die. But let us know who the winner is. They should announce the result, and if the military agrees, the person who won should be inaugurated.”

    Jonathan, who has since left office in 2015, has mediated political transitions in Mali, The Gambia, Liberia, and other West African states, said the region was weary of recurring instability.

    “We are tired of this in Africa, we are tired. Every day, it is one negative story or another,” he said.

    Saturday’s briefing to President Tinubu comes against the backdrop of growing democratic backsliding in West Africa, where ECOWAS has struggled to deter coups and enforce transition timelines.

    Guinea-Bissau, with nine coups or attempted coups since independence in 1974, remains one of the continent’s most volatile states.

    Jonathan was evacuated from the country on a jet reportedly provided by Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara.

    The coup occurred a day before the electoral commission was scheduled to publish official presidential results, with both Embaló and Dias da Costa already claiming victory amid accusations of rigging and intimidation.

  • JUST IN: Jonathan briefs Tinubu on Guinea-Bissau political tension

    JUST IN: Jonathan briefs Tinubu on Guinea-Bissau political tension

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Saturday briefed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the unfolding political crisis in Guinea-Bissau, warning that the situation remains fragile and in urgent need of regional attention.

    Dr. Jonathan, who led the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) Election Observer Mission to the country, met President Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, where he provided a detailed, first-hand account of the turmoil that followed the military takeover, which halted the electoral process.

    The former president had emphasised that Guinea-Bissau’s political situation was fragile and required urgent intervention to restore constitutional order.

  • FULL LIST: Fani-Kayode, Omokri, Ajimobi, other new ambassadors-designate nominated by Tinubu

    FULL LIST: Fani-Kayode, Omokri, Ajimobi, other new ambassadors-designate nominated by Tinubu

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sent the names of 32 ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for confirmation.

    In two separate letters to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, President Tinubu asked the Senate to consider and confirm 15 nominees expeditiously as career ambassadors and 17 nominees as non-career ambassadors.

    The new list, which includes 10 women — four women on the career ambassadors’ list and six women on the non-career ambassadors’ list, comes barely a week after the President submitted the first batch of three nominees.

    Here’s the full list below:

    Non-Career Ambassadors (17 nominees):

    1. Barrister Ogbonnaya Kalu (Abia)  

    2. Reno Omokri (Delta)  

    3. Prof. Mahmood Yakubu (Bauchi)  

    4. Erelu Bisi Angela Adebayo (Ekiti)  

    5. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu)  

    6. Tasiu Musa Maigari (Katsina)  

    7. Yakubu N. Gambo (Plateau)  

    8. Prof. Nora Ladi Daduut (Plateau)  

    9. Otunba Femi Pedro (Lagos)  

    10. Chief Femi Fani-Kayode (Osun)  

    11. Barr. Nkechi Linda Ufochukwu (Anambra)  

    12. Fatima Florence Ajimobi (Oyo)  

    13. Lola Akande (Lagos)  

    14. Grace Bent (Adamawa)  

    15. Dr. Victor Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia)  

    16. Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo)  

    17. Ambassador Paul Oga Adikwu (Benue)

    Career Ambassadors (15 nominees):

    1. Enebechi Monica Okwuchukwu (Abia)  

    2. Yakubu Nyaku Danladi (Taraba)  

    3. Miamuna Ibrahim Besto (Adamawa)  

    4. Musa Musa Abubakar (Kebbi)  

    5. Syndoph Paebi Endoni (Bayelsa)  

    6. Chima Geoffrey Lioma David (Ebonyi)  

    7. Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim (Ogun)  

    8. Abimbola Samuel Reuben (Ondo)  

    9. Yvonne Ehinosen Odumah (Edo)  

    10. Hamza Mohammed Salau (Niger)  

    11. Ambassador Shehu Barde (Katsina)  

    12. Ambassador Ahmed Mohammed Monguno (Borno)  

    13. Ambassador Muhammad Saidu Dahiru (Kaduna)  

    14. Ambassador Olatunji Ahmed Sulu Gambari (Kwara)  

    15. Ambassador Wahab Adekola Akande (Osun).

  • BREAKING: Tinubu nominates ex-INEC chair Yakubu, Fani-Kayode, Omokri, 29 others as ambassador

    BREAKING: Tinubu nominates ex-INEC chair Yakubu, Fani-Kayode, Omokri, 29 others as ambassador

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has transmitted a new list of 32 ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for confirmation, just days after submitting an initial batch of three names.

    In two separate letters addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, President Tinubu urged the lawmakers to give swift consideration and approval to 15 career ambassadors and 17 non-career ambassadors.

    The list was released on Saturday in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

    According to the breakdown, four women were nominated as career ambassadors, while six women made the non-career category.

    Notable nominees in the non-career group include Barrister Ogbonnaya Kalu from Abia; former presidential aide Reno Omokri (Delta); former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmud Yakubu; former Ekiti first lady, Erelu Angela Adebayo; and former Enugu governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

    Others are Tasiu Musa Maigari, the former speaker of the Katsina House of Assembly, Yakubu N. Gambo, a former Commissioner in Plateau State and former deputy executive secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).

    Professor Nora Ladi Daduut, a former senator from Plateau; Otunba Femi Pedro, a former deputy governor of Lagos State; Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, a former aviation minister from Osun State; and Barrister Nkechi Linda Ufochukwu from Anambra State are on the nomination list.

    Also on the list are former First Lady of Oyo, Fatima Florence Ajimobi, former Lagos Commissioner, Lola Akande, former Adamawa Senator, Grace Bent, former governor of Abia, Victor Okezie Ikpeazu, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, businessman, lawyer and Senator from Ondo State, and the former ambassador of Nigeria to the Holy See, Ambassador Paul Oga Adikwu from Benue State.

    Among the nominees for career ambassador and high commissioner-designates are: Enebechi Monica Okwuchukwu (Abia), Yakubu Nyaku Danladi (Taraba), Miamuna Ibrahim Besto (Adamawa), Musa Musa Abubakar (Kebbi), Syndoph Paebi Endoni (Bayelsa), Chima Geoffrey Lioma David (Ebonyi) and Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim (Ogun).

    The other nominees are Abimbola Samuel Reuben (Ondo), Yvonne Ehinosen Odumah(Edo), Hamza Mohammed Salau (Niger), Ambassador Shehu Barde (Katsina), Ambassador Ahmed Mohammed Monguno (Borno), Ambassador Muhammad Saidu Dahiru (Kaduna), Ambassador Olatunji Ahmed Sulu Gambari (Kawara) and Ambassador Wahab Adekola Akande (Osun).

    The new nominees are expected to be posted to countries with which Nigeria maintains excellent and strategic bilateral relations, such as China, India, South Korea, Canada, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, South Africa, Kenya, and to Permanent Missions such as the United Nations, UNESCO, and the African Union. All the nominees will know their diplomatic assignments after their confirmation by the Senate.

    Last week, President Tinubu sent three ambassadorial nominees for screening and confirmation. The nominees were Ambassador Ayodele Oke (Oyo), Ambassador Amin Mohammed Dalhatu (Jigawa), and Retired Colonel Lateef Kayode Are (Ogun). All three are in the pot for posting to the UK, USA, or France after their confirmation.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said more nominees for ambassadorial positions will be announced soon.

  • Shettima seeks stronger executive-legislature synergy, says Tinubu will never take lawmakers for granted

    Shettima seeks stronger executive-legislature synergy, says Tinubu will never take lawmakers for granted

    …First Lady, Akpabio, Abbas, Uzodimma rally support for women’s inclusion in governance

    Vice President Kashim Shettima on Friday called for deeper collaboration and sustained alignment of purpose between the executive and legislative arms of government, describing such synergy as indispensable to building a Nigeria that works for all.

    Speaking at a dinner hosted for members of the National Assembly by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the State House, Abuja, the Vice President said the current administration enjoys the “best working relationship” with the legislature since 1999, a development he attributed to shared vision, mutual respect and an understanding of the responsibilities binding both arms.

    In a statement issued on Saturday by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said “the true essence of democracy manifests not only in respecting the Legislature, but in appreciating the indispensable role each arm plays in the architecture of governance. 

    “It shines most brightly where there is alignment of purpose… where the Executive and Legislature are united by an unshakable resolve to build a nation that works for all”, Shettima said.

    Emphasising the depth of engagement between the two arms, the Vice President noted that “the entire architecture of the Presidency today is anchored by proud alumni of the National Assembly,” including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; the First Lady; the Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; Deputy Chief of Staff, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; and himself.

    “You are not taken for granted. You have never been taken for granted. And you will never be taken for granted,” Shettima assured, noting that the First Lady remains deeply committed to protecting the interests and preserving the dignity of lawmakers.

    He credited the National Assembly for the support given to the administration’s bold economic reforms, saying lawmakers had “placed the nation above personal interest” and “resisted the temptation of populist shortcuts” while backing difficult policy choices required to reposition the economy.

    “The early signs of macroeconomic recovery are already trickling down, gradually, steadily. This has rekindled the confidence that Nigeria is on course to becoming a prime destination for investors”, Shettima stated.

    However, he warned that the journey ahead remains tough, particularly in the face of lingering national security threats. 

    He urged both arms of government to remain united, drawing inspiration from the country’s founding leaders and focusing on courage, sacrifice and shared responsibility.

    “Our promise to deliver a safer nation is a solemn covenant with the Nigerian people. To fulfil it, we must continue to work hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart. Let this dinner be… a testament to our collective resolve to steer Nigeria toward a horizon where peace is stable, prosperity is shared, and our democracy becomes the pride of future generations”, he said.

    Earlier, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said insecurity remains a global challenge, but assured that the National Assembly stands firmly behind President Tinubu in tackling the menace. 

    “All Nigerians are fighting extremism and we in the National Assembly are united behind this administration,” he said.

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, commended the First Lady for her contributions to national development and advocated greater representation for women in policy-making, particularly in security-related governance.

    Also speaking, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Governor Hope Uzodimma, called for more elective and appointive positions for women, describing them as natural managers of the home who would bring competence and discipline to public service.

    In her remarks, the host, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, described the gathering as a reunion with former colleagues and reiterated the need to expand educational opportunities for all Nigerian children. 

    She also urged lawmakers to expedite action on the bill seeking increased women’s participation in legislative and leadership positions.

    The event was attended by members of the Senate, House of Representatives, state governors and senior government officials.

  • Protection: VIPs turn to Correctional Service, NSCDC, private security firms

    Protection: VIPs turn to Correctional Service, NSCDC, private security firms

    • Police disown viral memo on withdrawal of officers

    There is an upswing demand for the services of private security firms and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the wake of this week’s presidential order for the withdrawal of police escorts attached to very important personalities.

    President Bola Tinubu issued the order on Sunday as part of the broader effort to boost police presence in communities where security is currently deemed inadequate.

    Police Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun said on Thursday that 11,566 such police escorts have already been recalled.

    Investigation by our correspondents across the country shows that the affected VIPs are now turning to private security firms and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for their personal protection and that of their families.

    The NSCDC, which is currently about 60,000 strong has as its basic responsibilities protection of lives, safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure, prevention of crimes, and supporting civil authorities in times of emergency.

    At the national headquarters of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Abuja yesterday, The Nation gathered that telephone calls and other forms of discreet inquiries were being made to officers in the senior cadre by anxious VIPs requiring fresh or additional armed NSCDC personnel to serve as their escorts.

    “As we speak today, they have started making moves to request for NSCDC personnel but we lack the manpower to serve these elites. Our last recruitment was 5,000 and the one we are about to do now is 10,000, but note that the less than 100, 000 that we have are spread all over the country because of challenges around mining activities, pipeline safety and so on.

    “And for special duties like the 2025 Abuja Independence Day celebration, about 4,500 were deployed while events like the 2025 Anambra governorship election alone require 10, 000 personnel,” an NSCDC source stated.

    A source in the organistion said yesterday in Enugu that applications for the services of their personnel have been on a massive rise in the last few days.

    States and communities have also been taking actions of their own to complement initiatives of the federal government.

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa yesterday gave the nod for the recruitment of 500 personnel by the State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps.

    This comes on the heels of Wednesday’s meeting of Southern governors in Iperu-Remo,Ogun State where they insisted  that state police is non-negotiable if Nigeria desires to effectively tackle banditry.

    On the same day, President Tinubu declared a nationwide security emergency and threw his weight behind the establishment of state police.

    NSCDC to work out modalities – Minister

    Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said in Abuja on Thursday that following the order to the para-military institutions under the ministry to enhance security situations in Nigeria, the ministry would do its outmost best.

    Tunji-Ojo, who toured the upgrade of the training facilities of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Abuja Command at Wuse, and the Federal Fire Service Headquarters for Abuja Command, said President Tinubu directives would be carried out to the letter.

    The Minister said the para-military under the Ministry have the capability and capacity to enhance the security situation in the country.

    On the directives of the President on withdrawal of policemen from VIPs in the country, sources at the headquarters of the NSCDC said the agency was awaiting further instructions from higher authorities.

    Read Also: UNODC partners NSCDC to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against illegal mining

    A source who preferred not to be named said the NSCDC has the capability and capacity to provide the needed support, especially at this period, but pointed out that the details have to be worked out.

    Spokesman for NSCDC in Nasarawa State, Mr Jerry Victor confirmed to The Nation the command’s receipt of many applications for security personnel since the President’s directive.

    “The command is flooded with applications from VIPs requesting that our personnel be posted to them, some to their houses. Every day, we get calls and applications for our services,” he said.

    A source in a private security organisation in the state said: “Yes, there is a high demand for our services.”

    But the source said the company does not currently have enough personnel to meet demand.

    Police escorts have been withdrawn from former and serving lawmakers in Nasarawa State.

    The only politician of note who still has police escorts in the state is APC governorship aspirant Mohammed Adamu, and that is because of his status as a retired Inspector General of Police.

    A former federal lawmaker in the state said he has not left his Abuja residence since the withdrawal of his police escort and won’t do so until he secures a private security arrangement. 

    The politician who does not want his name in print said:”It’s not possible for me to go out like that.

    “I can’t even try it. I have cancelled all meetings and political engagements until my alternative security arrangement is concluded.

    “I have applied to the Nasarawa State Command of the NSCDC and a private security outfit in Lafia to give me some security men to guard my house in Lafia.

    “It’s not easy for someone like me to go out without security cover, but I think the President’s directive is understood in view of the general security situation across the country. It’s in the interest of the whole country, so I wholeheartedly welcome it.”

    Findings across Enugu on Friday showed that many of those affected by the withdrawal have quickly resorted to hiring armed operatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) as well as officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service to fill the gap left by the police.

     A senior political aide who requested anonymity told our reporter that the sudden withdrawal had left many VIPs exposed.

     “Most of my principals no longer move with police escorts. They are now relying on Civil Defence and even Correctional Service operatives. These agencies allow their armed personnel to be hired legitimately, so that’s what many are using now,” he said.

     Ndume backs Tinubu’s order on VIP police withdrawal, seeks extension to National Assembly

    Former leader of the Senate, Senator Ali Ndume (APC – Borno South), has thrown his weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive ordering the withdrawal of police officers from Very Important Persons (VIPs), insisting that the measure must be extended to members of the National Assembly.

    Ndume, speaking on ‘Politics Today’ on Channels Television on Thursday evening, said the number of police personnel currently deployed to the National Assembly was excessive and unjustifiable at a time the country is battling heightened insecurity.

    He described as “insulting” the growing trend of VIPs securing law enforcement officers not just for themselves, but for their spouses and children.

    “I thought today I would not see so many police in the National Assembly, but there are still crowded police in the National Assembly,” he lamented.

    “Some of our colleagues, some ministers have police attached to their wives. What is their business with that? They have police attached to their children.”

    The senator recalled cases where children of prominent individuals move around Abuja in convoys, while ordinary Nigerians lack protection from violent crimes.

    Ndume narrated how he once visited the residence of a junior colleague and met more than 10 police officers assigned to him, pointing out that the situation had become so alarming that some lawmakers move with security arrangements resembling presidential convoys.

    The lawmaker argued that if security in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was strengthened, VIPs—including President Tinubu—would not require heavy convoys.

    “Secure Abuja, and the President can even drive out himself,” he said.

    “When you secure personalities and neglect common people, the result is insecurity. In other countries, citizens move freely at night because their cities are secure.”

    When reminded that the withdrawal directive could apply to him as well, Ndume stated that he only maintains one police orderly, having declined an earlier offer of three officers.

    “One of the top security agencies felt my life was at risk and attached three policemen to me, but I refused. I insisted on having only an orderly,” he said, noting that his preference was based more on accountability than protection.

     Presidential order: Our elites deserve no pity” – Ex-DMI Officer

    Nigerian elites whose prolonged indifference, inadequate concern and unjustified benefits from security votes may have facilitated Nigeria’s current security situation do not deserve to be pitied in an effective implementation of President Tinubu’s order for the withdrawal of police officers, a former military officer who served in the Directorate of Military Intelligence (DMI), Captain Umar Babangida Aliyu (rtd), said.

    Speaking with The Nation, Aliyu, who now works as a security consultant and business risk expert said that while the President’s decision has several complex implications for VIPs, even as it serves to refocus police attention, a rigorous implementation of the order without any room for shortcuts or illegal police duties will help Nigeria move forward towards tackling insecurity with more seriousness.

    Captain U. B, Aliyu (rtd), a member of the 40th Nigerian Army Regular Course which has produced service chiefs and a National Security Adviser, emphasised that Nigeria’s VIPs do not deserve to be pitied over the withdrawal of their police escorts.

    Said Aliyu: “Honestly, I really don’t sympathise with them. The politicians and other are victims of their own folly; they are all well-travelled, some with residential property and citizenship abroad, and they know what obtains in other countries in terms of private and societal security wise but come back home and do nothing whatsoever to replicate the good things they see and partake of abroad.

    “Let them enjoy the new status quo. Hopefully, it will reset their priority as to security and insecurity here in Nigeria. It is not as if the Police were on top of their game when they were at it anyway. Even with police protection, we have seen VIPs attacked.”

    The Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun told reporters in Abuja yesterday that the recall of police officers from VIP duties was neither punitive nor political but aimed at refocusing police efforts and resources  on critical areas such as intelligence-led operations and  rapid response capacities in  rural and urban areas, worried elites.

    Police disown memo on ‘withdrawal of officers’ from Atiku, Wike

    The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), responding yesterday to a report that they had withdrawn officers attached to some high-profile individuals, said no such decision was taken.

    The report had claimed that a Mobile Force, 50 Squadron in Kubwa, Abuja, issued urgent instructions for personnel assigned to VIPs , including former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar and Namadi Sambo, Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT); former first lady Aisha Buhari; Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN); and Ogiame Atuwatse III, Olu of Warri, to return  to base by Thursday, November 27.

    The report quoted a memo, allegedly signed by CSP Suleiman Abdullahi, administrative officer of 50PMF Kubwa, as saying that officers attached to 20 VIPs should return to base and that attendance would be taken from the nominal roll.

    In addition, it claimed that officers attached to VIPs across SPU Base 16 in Lagos were also expected back by the close of business on November 24 and attend a lecture parade the following day.

  • EFCC probes Malami over alleged multimillion dollar deals

    EFCC probes Malami over alleged multimillion dollar deals

    • Ex-minister confirms commission’s invitation, pledges cooperation

    THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday grilled a former Attorney-General of the Federation, Mr.  Abubakar Malami(SAN) over allegations of corruption against him.

    The former AGF has been on the radar of the anti-graft commission in respect of some bank accounts, assets and payments of judgement debts,among others.

    Details of his interaction with investigators will be released as from Monday, a top source in EFCC told The Nation last night.

    The source said:” We have many allegations lined up against him. We have not accused him of anything at all.

    “Our investigation is on. He interacted with our operatives on Friday. We were courteous to him. We respected the confidentiality of his appearance. But he has chosen to go public.

    “We will have no choice to explain to Nigerians what he came to do and our findings.”

    The Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Mr. Dele Oyewale  whowas contacted by The Nation yesterday said he had no details of the interaction with Malami because he was out of Abuja.

    Malami personally confirmed his invitation on his X handle yesterday.

    But he did not specify why he was invited or when he would appear before the commission.

    He apparently made the pre-emptive move to beat the EFCC to it and reduce the impact of a summon by the anti-graft agency.

    He said: “This is to confirm that that I have been invited by the EFCC.

    “As a law-abiding and patriotic citizen, I hereby reaffirm my commitment to honour the invitation.

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    “I understand the spirit of accountability and transparency in public service -the principles that I both advocate and champion.

    “Rooted in public service and in the spirit of transparency and accountability, I am committed to sharing with the Nigerian public the developments as they unfold.”

    Malami served as Attorney General of the Federation between 2015 to 2023.

    Questions have been raised about his role in the payment of $496 million to Global Steel Holdings Ltd (GSHL) as settlement for the termination of the Ajaokuta Steel concession nine years after the Indian company had waved all claims for compensation; the sale of assets worth billions of naira forfeited to the EFCC by politically exposed persons; the $419 million judgment debt awarded to consultants who claimed to have facilitated the Paris Club refunds to the states ; agreement to pay Sunrise Power $200 million compensation in its dispute with the FG over the Mambilla power project;and  legal fees in the transfer of $321 million Abacha loot from Switzerland to Nigeria.

  • Ambassadors: Why Tinubu opted for Oke, Dalhatu, Are

    Ambassadors: Why Tinubu opted for Oke, Dalhatu, Are

    • ’Court exonerated Oke over lodging of $43m in Osborne Road apartment’

    President Bola Tinubu’s Wednesday’s choice of the three ambassadors designate to the United States of America, the United Kingdom and France was driven by the urgent need for foreign collaboration to tackle insurgency and banditry in the country,The Nation gathered yesterday.

    Integrity, merit and international connections/ acceptability were other factors considered by the president in settling for a former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Amb. Ayo Oke; a former Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Kayode Are; and Amb. Amin Mohammed Dalhatu,sources said.

    Their names have been forwarded to the Senate for confirmation.

    Some critics have queried the nomination of Oke on account of the circumstances surrounding his exit from the NIA.

    But fresh facts now reveal that he was exonerated of corruption by a Federal High Court in Lagos in 2023 following withdrawal of allegations of lodging over$43m in Osborne Road apartment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    The trio are the first set of nominees for ambassadorial assignments by the Tinubu Presidency.

    A full list is said to be on the way.

    A top source, who spoke in confidence, said the President decided to return to “pragmatic diplomacy which will boost the ongoing economic reforms and counter- insurgency. To Tinubu, it is merit before any consideration.

    “This government has done its homework before nominating the three candidates.Some of them were even abroad when they heard the announcement. One of them was on his way from London yesterday. You can see the merit factor.

    “Those three nominees have unimpeachable pedigree; they are internationally respected and they can knock any door for Nigeria. When they speak on the nation’s security situation in Nigeria or when they seek international support, they are trusted.

    “They have integrity which has endeared them to the international community. They also seek truth to power. Are’s records in DSS were outstanding to the admiration of the international community.

    “Amb. Amin Mohammed Dalhatu is a diplomatic of repute with a great passion for truth, accountability and transparency.  Nigeria comes first to him before any country.

    “Of all security chiefs, Oke was the only person, in his capacity as the NIA boss, that submitted an accurate report that former President Goodluck Jonathan would lose the 2015 general election. He didn’t care if he was fired by the then President.

    His outstanding contributions in the pursuit of Nigeria’s national interest in international environment culminated in his distinguished career at the Commonwealth Secretariat, London as Special Adviser to the Commonwealth Secretary-General and Head of Africa Department of the international organisation.

    “He was also instrumental to the outstanding contributions to the organisational development of the NIA and series of operational successes the NIA recorded under him that earned him noteworthy commendations by two former Presidents…”

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    Oke and the $43m in Osborne road apartment

    Another source confirmed that Amb. Oke was cleared of any corruption in 2023.

    The source added: “As a matter of fact, the funds were for security project kept in a safe house. The EFCC acted on a false alarm. And instead of inter-agency collaboration, it went to town with the discovery.

    “Many international security organisations and companies connected with the project felt embarrassed.

    “A Federal High Court Order revoked the charges following EFCC’s decision to withdraw the case in June 2023 on grounds of national security. This action was duly noted and approved by the late President Muhammadu Buhari in March of the same year.

    “The six-year controversy around the security lodging of $43 million, 27 thousand UK Pounds, and N23 million, belonging to the National Intelligence Agency [NIA], at an Osborne Road apartment in Ikoyi, Lagos, came to an end in 2023 with the legal resolution to terminate the case.

    “The presiding judge of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, Honourable Justice C.J. Aneke, struck out the case on Friday, June 9, 2023, following the decision of the prosecuting team from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission [EFCC] and the lack of objection from the defence team led by Dr. Kayode Ajulo (SAN) of the Castle of Law Chambers.

    “The EFCC withdrawal of the case followed its agreement with the NIA that on national security grounds and the fact that full forfeiture of the money required no further action.

    “So there is nothing adversarial or negative on this nomination.”

    When contacted, Ajulo, who is now the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, said: “The case against Amb. Oke was struck out because he didn’t embezzle any money. Based on the facts, EFCC withdrew the charges.”

  • Tinubu establishes national tax policy implementation committee to drive new tax law execution

    Tinubu establishes national tax policy implementation committee to drive new tax law execution

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a National Tax Policy Implementation Committee (NTPIC) to ensure coordinated, nationwide implementation of the administration’s sweeping tax reforms.

    The committee, chaired by renowned financial expert, Mr Joseph Tegbe, is tasked with translating the President’s new Tax Acts into practical, harmonised actions across the federal, state, and private sectors. 

    Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, will provide ministerial oversight for the committee.

    Announcing the decision in a statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Thursday, the Presidency said the NTPIC will undertake wide consultations with public- and private-sector stakeholders to ensure the reforms align with Nigeria’s economic aspirations and secure broad acceptance.

    Tegbe, a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA) and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (FCIT), brings over 35 years of experience from both sectors, including his tenure as Senior Partner and Head of Advisory Services at KPMG Africa. 

    Mrs Sanyade Okoli, Special Adviser to the President on Finance and Economy, will serve as Secretary, while members include Ismaeel Ahmed, Rukaiya El-Rufai, and other experts.

    President Tinubu, in establishing the committee, underscored the centrality of effective implementation to his administration’s economic transformation drive.

    “These new Tax Acts reflect our administration’s commitment to building a fair, transparent, and technology-driven tax system that supports economic growth while protecting the interests of citizens and businesses. 

    “The National Tax Policy Implementation Committee will ensure coherent, effective, and well-aligned implementation across all levels of government”, the President said.

    According to the statement, the NTPIC will prioritise extensive stakeholder engagement through nationwide consultations with professional bodies, the private sector, and subnational governments. 

    Public awareness campaigns will also accompany the rollout of the reforms to deepen citizens’ understanding and compliance.

    The committee is further mandated to strengthen inter-agency coordination by aligning revenue collection bodies and regulatory institutions with the new laws, harmonising existing frameworks, and ensuring unified oversight and reporting throughout the transition.

    The statement noted that the multi-disciplinary composition of the NTPIC, covering tax administration, finance, law, the private sector, and civil society, will guarantee a balanced and inclusive approach to execution.

    Read Also: Tinubu directs stronger south–south cooperation

    Tegbe said the team is prepared to begin work immediately. 

    “We understand the strategic importance of these Tax Acts. Our committee will work closely with all stakeholders to support the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy in ensuring seamless implementation and building public trust in the tax system,” he said.

    Edun described the committee’s inauguration as a decisive step towards repositioning Nigeria’s fiscal framework. 

    “With the establishment of this Committee, Mr President has not only set the direction but also provided the authority and support required to reset not just the tax system but the entire fiscal policy framework of government, to deliver significant economic growth for the benefit of all Nigerians,” the minister said.

    The NTPIC is expected to strengthen revenue mobilisation, reduce leakages, enhance accountability, and reinforce the federal government’s fiscal sustainability goals.