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Tag: PRESIDENCY

  • Presidency debunks claims of scrapping key agencies in tax reform 

    Presidency debunks claims of scrapping key agencies in tax reform 

    The Presidency has refuted widespread claims suggesting that the proposed tax reform bills before the National Assembly recommend the dissolution of key federal agencies. 

    Recent debates surrounding the tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration have generated significant misinformation, with some critics presenting misleading claims. 

    One prominent allegation is that the bills aim to dissolve key government agencies like the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), and National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). 

    Critics suggested these agencies would lose their funding and cease to operate by 2029, an assertion that the presidency has strongly refuted.

    Additionally, there have been claims that the reforms disproportionately benefit states like Lagos and Rivers, potentially impoverishing northern states. 

    Some northern governors have expressed concerns, particularly about changes in the Value Added Tax (VAT) sharing formula, viewing it as detrimental to their region’s economic stability. 

    However, the government clarified that the reforms aim to simplify tax administration, reduce the burden on businesses, and ensure equitable revenue distribution among states, with provisions for equalization transfers to maintain fairness.

    Another contentious issue is the perceived introduction of excessive taxes amidst existing economic hardships. 

    Critics argue that these changes might exacerbate the financial burden on Nigerians. 

    The government counters that the reforms will exempt many low-income earners from taxation and streamline the taxation process to support vulnerable businesses and individuals.

    However, in a statement issued on Monday by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency emphasized that no provision in the bills seeks to abolish these institutions or disproportionately disadvantage any region of the country.

    The Presidency criticized commentators for spreading inaccurate claims and inflaming regional tensions. 

    According to the statement, the reforms are aimed at improving Nigeria’s economic environment, not at enriching certain states or impoverishing others.

    The proposed reforms include consolidating multiple taxes currently imposed on businesses into a single tax, a move intended to simplify tax administration and reduce the financial burden on companies. 

    The statement highlighted that businesses in Nigeria have long struggled under the weight of numerous taxes, which have hampered growth, deterred investment, and, in some cases, forced companies to relocate to more favorable markets.

    Under the new framework, affected agencies such as NASENI, TETFUND, and NITDA will continue to receive funding through budgetary allocations and a phased sharing of the consolidated tax revenue until 2030. 

    This approach, the Presidency argued, is consistent with global best practices, where government agencies are funded through general taxation rather than earmarked levies.

    The statement urged public figures and stakeholders to base their comments on factual interpretations of the bills, rather than using unfounded claims to polarize the nation or mislead citizens. 

    It called on all Nigerians, including leaders in various sectors, to contribute constructively during upcoming public hearings organized by the National Assembly to discuss the tax proposals.

    President Bola Tinubu reiterated the urgency of reforming Nigeria’s outdated tax system to foster economic growth and development. 

    According to the statement, the proposed changes are essential for creating a more competitive and equitable economic landscape for all Nigerians.

    “Since the public debate around the transformative tax bills before the National Assembly began in the last few weeks, various political actors and commentators have tried to obfuscate the facts, deliberately misinforming and misleading the public. 

    “Unfortunately, most reactions are not grounded in facts, reality, or sufficient knowledge of the bills. While some commentators have attempted to incite the people against lawmakers, others have polarized one section of the country against another.

    “The tax reform bills will not make Lagos or Rivers more affluent and other parts of the country, as recklessly canvassed, poorer. The bills will not destroy the economy of any section of the country. Instead, they aim to enhance the quality of life for Nigerians, especially the disadvantaged, who are trying to make a living.

    “Contrary to the lies being peddled, the bills do not suggest that NASENI, TETFUND, and NITDA will cease to exist in 2029 after the passage of the bills.

    “Government agencies, such as NASENI, TETFUND, and NITDA, are funded through budgetary provisions with company income tax and other taxes paid by the same businesses that are being overburdened with the special taxes. 

    “One reason President Bola Tinubu embarked on the Tax and Fiscal Policy Reforms is the need to streamline tax administration in Nigeria and make the operating environment conducive for businesses. 

    “For decades, businesses, investors, and private sector players in Nigeria have complained of being overburdened by a myriad of taxes and levies, including those earmarked to fund various government agencies and initiatives. 

    “The multiple taxes complicate the economic environment, making Nigeria uncompetitive for investment and preventing many businesses from growing or continuing their operations. Some companies have had to make the rational decision to relocate to other countries. We can not continue on this path or wait for 20 years if this country is to deliver the prosperity we need for our people. 

    “The proposal, as contained in section 59(3) of the Nigeria Tax Bill, only seeks to consolidate some of the earmarked taxes imposed on companies and replace them with a single tax to be shared with the key agencies as beneficiaries in a phased manner until 2030.

    “The time frame offers ample opportunity for the affected agencies to explore other funding sources in addition to budgetary allocations in line with the constitution and international best practices. 

    “It is a misrepresentation of facts to conclude that changing an agency’s funding source amounts to scrapping it. None of the countries leading globally in education, science, engineering, or information technology have similar earmarked taxes. 

    “The government imposes major taxes, be it income tax, consumption tax, or other taxes, to channel resources to its areas of priority at the time. Imposing a separate tax to fund an agency is an aberration that has yet to yield results despite the huge burden on businesses. The tax bill seeks to address this problem. 

    Read Also: Presidency, lawmakers, VC, others to attend skills roadmap unveiling     

    “Relevant stakeholders and public analysts owe it a duty to properly educate themselves about the bills’ contents and avoid misleading the public for any reason. We may be entitled to our opinions, but such views must be informed and based on facts, not emotions targeted at inflaming passions.

    “In a period like this, when our people across the country look up to leaders for guidance and direction on matters of public importance, such as the Tax Reform Bills, leaders should be more measured in their public utterances to avoid heating the polity and polarising the country unduly. 

    “President Tinubu welcomes the public interest these bills have generated. He encourages leaders across the country, including Governors, Traditional rulers, Civil Society Activists, Students, trade associations, professional associations, and the general public, to take advantage of the Public Hearings that the National Assembly will organise to present their views on how best to reform our taxes and fiscal regime. 

    “What is never in doubt is the imperative of changing the existing tax laws and administration that have become obsolete and unhelpful in achieving the growth and development we desire for our country”, the statement said.

  • Obasanjo not an ideal leader to emulate, says Presidency

    Obasanjo not an ideal leader to emulate, says Presidency

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has come under sharp criticism following his recent remarks on leadership and governance in Nigeria.

    Speaking at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University, the former leader alleged that subsequent administrations had failed the nation, describing Nigeria as a “failing country.”

    However, a statement issued on Monday by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, took issue with Obasanjo’s comments, labeling them as hypocritical and undeserving of emulation.

    The statement accused Obasanjo of a legacy marred by constitutional violations, corruption, and poor leadership during his time in office.

    “Brazen illegality and assault on the Constitution of Nigeria reached a disturbing height under the leadership of Chief Obasanjo,” Onanuga said, citing the unconstitutional impeachment of four state governors and allegations of corruption, including misuse of public funds and involvement in the Halliburton bribery scandal.

    Onanuga also criticized Obasanjo’s handling of Nigeria’s economic resources.

    While acknowledging the fiscal benefits of high crude oil prices during Obasanjo’s tenure, the statement argued that these opportunities were squandered.

    Key criticisms included neglecting national infrastructure, leaving federal roads in disrepair, and failing to address the country’s power crisis despite spending $16 billion on electricity projects.

    “Obasanjo failed to fix the deplorable federal roads or expand the national road network,” the statement read, listing uncompleted projects such as the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

    It also accused him of prioritizing personal interests, such as advancing private enterprises like his university and presidential library, funded through questionable donations.

    Obasanjo’s privatization efforts were also criticized as benefiting cronies at the expense of national interests.

    Onanuga highlighted the controversial sale of the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) for a fraction of its value as a prime example.

    The statement further condemned Obasanjo’s third-term bid, which was described as a “failed project” that wasted billions of naira.

    It argued that the flawed electoral process he oversaw in 2007 undermines his credibility to comment on governance and electoral integrity.

    Read Also: Presidency slams Obasanjo over criticism of Tinubu’s administration

    Additionally, Obasanjo was accused of neglecting national security during his administration, leaving the armed forces underfunded and ill-equipped.

    The statement credited subsequent All Progressives Congress (APC) administrations with modernizing Nigeria’s military and improving security infrastructure.

    The statement concluded by urging Obasanjo to focus on introspection rather than criticism.

    “His remaining years would be better spent reflecting on the missed opportunities during his own time in leadership, both as military head of state and civilian president,” Onanuga asserted.

  • Presidency slams Obasanjo over criticism of Tinubu’s administration

    Presidency slams Obasanjo over criticism of Tinubu’s administration

    The Presidency has strongly criticised former President Olusegun Obasanjo, dismissing his recent remarks about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration as insincere and misguided.

    The response from the Presidency follows Obasanjo’s comments made at Yale University in the United States, where he reportedly criticised the current administration.

    In his keynote address last Saturday at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum, held at Yale University, Obasanjo, among many other uncomplimentary remarks, claimed that Nigeria has become a failing state under Tinubu’s watch.

    However, reacting to the former President’s comments, Special Adviser to the President on Public Communications and Orientation, Sunday Dare, in a message he posted on his verified X handle, @SundayDareSD, said Obasanjo’s statements lack credibility, given his own controversial legacy as president.

    “Former President Obasanjo is a man with a tremendous capacity for mischief, and Nigerians know it,” Dare said in the message, adding “his journey along the path of hallucinations has never been in doubt, as has his descent into muddling facts, forgetting that he ran a Presidency on record as the most corrupt.”

    Citing alleged corruption and governance failures during Obasanjo’s tenure, Dare accused the former president of hypocrisy.

    “It is actually laughable that Obasanjo’s pretentiousness about fighting corruption is not cutting any ice in the eyes of the general public. We all know what happened under his watch and how, up till the present moment, there has been no explanation as to how he wasted a whopping $16 billion in generating megawatts of darkness across the nation”, Dare said.

    Dare further argued that Obasanjo’s leadership inflicted lasting harm on Nigeria’s democracy, referencing the controversial third-term agenda that marked the latter part of his presidency.

    “Democracy suffered mortal wounds under his watch, only capped by his murderous rage for an ill-fated third term. Successive administrations struggled to clean up the mess Obasanjo left behind, which President Tinubu is now making progress with,” he said.

    The adviser suggested that Obasanjo should apologize to Nigerians for his governance failures instead of criticizing others, saying “Obasanjo has lost any moral right to condemn any government. He should apologize to Nigerians for not laying the foundational infrastructure Nigeria needed to advance.”

    Using a Yoruba proverb, Dare underscored the administration’s focus amidst the noise, saying “the Yoruba proverb, ‘A o ki n wo ariwo oja, eniti a anba na oja ni a n wo,’ means you shouldn’t pay heed to the market’s noise but focus on the person you are negotiating with.

    “In this market called Nigeria, the man with the renewed hope agenda is the one that matters. Everything else is ariwo oja [market noise]”, he said.

    Read Also: Democracy suffered mortal wounds under Obasanjo — Presidency

    Dare praised Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” and emphasized the administration’s commitment to reforms, saying “President Tinubu will stay the course in seeing through the reforms he has instituted for a better Nigeria”.

    Concluding his remarks, Dare urged Obasanjo to reflect on his own role in Nigeria’s challenges.

    “Obasanjo should take time off this habit of pulling down leaders, especially his successors, and try to interrogate himself on how he has contributed to the parlous state of the Nigerian nation, which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is now spiritedly battling to put back on track,” he said.

    Dare, however, welcomed Obasanjo’s acknowledgment that “there is hope” for Nigeria, saying “that’s the Renewed Hope Agenda President Tinubu is about, and it’s on track. We are happy to have that conversation with the former president”.

  • Nigeria ranks top 3 in deepwater oil projects – Presidency

    Nigeria ranks top 3 in deepwater oil projects – Presidency

    The Presidency has said that the Nigeria’s deepwater oil projects now deliver competitive returns and the country has moved from bottom quartile of 13 indexed countries to top three.

    Mrs Olu Verheijen, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Energy, disclosed this in a keynote address at an Executive Session of the Energy Institute and the National Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE).

    In a copy of the address made available to newsmen in Abuja on Friday, Verheijen noted that, in deepwater gas, Nigeria has moved from a total absence of a fiscal framework, to having one for the first time in history.

    She said the feats were attained by major oil and gas sector reforms by the President BolaTinubu’s administration aimed at improving fiscal attractiveness and ease of doing business.

    According to her, the reforms targeted actual bottlenecks and real projects in the investment pipelines,

    “In April this year, FID was reached on the Ubeta Non-Associated Gas project, a half-a- billion dollar project.

    “The Ubeta field was discovered in 1965 and has finally been unlocked to deliver prosperity of multitudes of Nigerian lives and businesses,” she said.

    Verheijen also disclosed that Nigeria is positioned to tap into 90 billion dollar in financing available for deepwater projects around the world, by IOCs that are already operating in the country.

    “Accessing 20 per cent of this, will be more than enough to bring five major deepwater projects on-stream, unlocking 1.3 billion barrels of oil equivalent (boe).

    “We are gearing up for our first FID on a greenfield deepwater development since the last one (Egina) in 2013.

    “Going into 2025, we expect the investment momentum to quicken, proving beyond any doubt, that President Tinubu’s energy reform agenda is truly revolutionary. Our challenges are addressable, and fixable.

    She added: “All these new investments will have major implications for the Nigerian economy.

    “The foreign exchange inflows will help with exchange rate management and macroeconomic stability; local economies will benefit from the increased spending on construction and hiring; skill-building and technology transfer will take place.

    “Importantly, with the industry infrastructure being developed, each new investment will ensure that subsequent projects are possible at lower costs and with the guarantee of greater returns – creating a virtuous cycle of new investments”

    The special Adviser noted that the session was apt at the time Nigeria needed ever-increasing levels of energy investment to catalyse its economic development.

    She added that energy, in its many forms, is a vital path to higher paying jobs, to industrialisation, to innovation, and to sustained prosperity, for Nigeria and for all of Africa.

    Verheijen called on the stakeholders to be
    a part of the unfolding energy revolution in the country.

    “We cannot succeed without you, without listening to you and taking your feedback.

    “As much as we want to attract financing, we also want to work closely with partners who truly believe in our ability to keep our pledges and to ensure that the reform momentum never loses steam,” she said.

    (NAN) 

  • We’re liaising with Presidency to secure Ijamido healing stream – Olota of Otta

    We’re liaising with Presidency to secure Ijamido healing stream – Olota of Otta

    The Olota of Otta – Awori Kingdom in Ado – Ota Local Government of Ogun State, Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege, has called on his people home and in the Diaspora to contribute towards the revival and promotion of the traditional, historical cultural values of the Ijamido stream in Ottaland because of its “healing power.”

    Oba Obalenge, a Professor of Journalism, revealed that the ancient kingdom was already liaising with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to protect and secure the site from being swept away by advancing gully erosion in the areas bordering the stream.

    He noted that the Ijamido stream was paramount to the Ota culture and the people over the years, disclosing that aside its well – known healing power and potential to serve as both tourist centre and veritable revenue source, it is what the people traditionally use to solidify contractual agreement between two or more parties on any matter of interest.

    The monarch made this known to The Nation shortly after briefing newsmen in his palace at the weekend ahead of the a weeklong Omo Iganmode Cultural Festival scheduled to begin on December 16.

    He recalled as one of the custodians of the Yoruba tradition and culture that his people from old also used water from the stream to fortify themselves against evil spirits.

    He said: “Ijamido river is special because of its healing power. We also believe that you can use it(the water) to actually solidify any kind of covenant between two parties and we also use it to fortify ourselves against evil spirits. 

    “Good enough, it is a cultural site, people do visit the place, although for now it has been ravaged by erosion, we are liaising with the Presidency to ensure that we get it back to what it used to be.”

    The traditional ruler identified the uniqueness of the Otta-Awori Kingdom and the kingship, saying the “Olota stool is not among those established in the ninth or tenth century as it has been existing since time immemorial, dating back to the days of Orumila, who came before Christ and visited Otta three times.

    He explained that it is a kingdom that was never conquered, boasting a rich cultural heritage of which the people are very proud to associate themselves with it.

    On the Iganmode festival, the monarch also advocated using the rich cultural heritage to redirect and instil in the nation’s coming generation, the values of integrity, respect, and community service, which he said, foster peace, unity and development.

    This year’s festival theme is “Otta: The Beacon of Awori Heritage and Civilisation.”

    According to him, the annual gathering of sons, daughters and friends of Otta – Awori Kingdom will serve as another platform to galvanize support for the kingdom’s socio-economic development.

    He said, “The Odun Omo Iganmode festival embodies our commitment to preserving and promoting our values, which prioritise unity, security, and shared responsibility.

    “The festival offers a platform for fostering initiatives that uplift Aworiland and Ogun State while uniting Awori sons, daughters, and friends in a collective celebration of identity.

    Read Also: Divine Foresight Academy wins Olota Football Competition

    “The contributions from our community leaders, businesses, and residents affirm our dedication to maintaining Otta as a safe, inclusive, and prosperous city where traditions are honoured, and progress is celebrated.

    “As we embrace the spirit of this year’s festivities, let us take pride in our Awori identity and instil in future generations the values of integrity, respect, and community. The Odun Omo Iganmode is a call to action for us all to champion our culture and stand united against forces that threaten our peace and values.

    “As we open the doors to our beloved city, may this festival inspire a renewed commitment to a proud, dignified, and harmonious Aworiland.”

  • Presidency dismisses claims of Southwest domination in security appointments

    Presidency dismisses claims of Southwest domination in security appointments

    The Presidency yesterday evening dismissed insinuations that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration is favouring the Southwest region in its security sector appointments.

     Critics have, since the appointment of Major General Oluremi Oluyede as acting Chief of Army Staff, claimed that the administration has favoured the Southwest above other regions in its appointment of security heads.

     Some Nigerians have argued that equally qualified officers from other regions could have temporarily assumed the role.

    Read Also: Concerns as silent rage of hazardous pollution threatens air quality

     Dismissing the criticisms, Special Adviser to the President on Public Communications and Orientation, Sunday Dare, on his verified X handle, @SundayDareSD,  shared a breakdown of security appointments under President Tinubu’s administration.

     According to Dare’s list, the Northwest holds the highest number of security appointments with eight, followed by the Southwest with five, and the North-Central with four. The Northeast has three appointees, while the South-South and Southeast have one each.

     “Facts do not lie. Below we see laid bare the facts about the regional outlook of President Tinubu’s appointments within 20 security agencies. The label of him favouring Yorubas in the Security set up does not fit. Nigeria we hail thee!” Dare wrote.

  • Presidency clarifies derivation-based VAT model

    Presidency clarifies derivation-based VAT model

    The Presidency has moved to address concerns surrounding the proposed derivation-based Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution model, which some Northern Governors have opposed.

    The Northern Governors Forum expressed concerns that the proposed derivation-based VAT model would lead to job losses and disadvantages for the region. 

    However, the Presidency reassured that the reforms will stimulate new avenues for job creation, supporting a dynamic and growth-oriented economy.

    A statement on Thursday by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the reforms aim to improve the lives of Nigerians, not undermine any part of the country.

    According to the statement, the current VAT distribution model is based on where the tax is remitted, rather than where goods and services are supplied or consumed, explaining that this has led to inherent inequity in the derivation model, which the ongoing tax reform seeks to correct. 

    It further highlighted that the new proposal before the National Assembly considers the place of supply or consumption for relevant goods and services, ensuring states in the Northern region that produce food and other essential goods are not disadvantaged.

    This means that Northern States, which are major food producers, will no longer lose out on VAT revenue simply because their products are VAT-exempt or consumed in other states.

    It further said the reforms prioritise fairness and equity, recognising the unique contributions of each region to the national economy.

    The Presidency maintained that these reforms are crucial to improving the lives of Nigerians, adding that the proposed laws will not increase the number of taxes, but instead optimize and simplify existing tax frameworks. 

    It said tax rates and percentages will remain the same, with a focus on ensuring equitable distribution without adding to the burden on Nigerians.

    “The proposed laws aim to coordinate efforts between different tiers of government, resulting in better tax resource management and greater clarity for taxpayers.

    “Under existing laws, taxes like Company Income Tax (CIT), Personal Income Tax (PIT), Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Petroleum Profits Tax (PPT), Tertiary Education Tax (TET), Value-Added Tax (VAT), and other taxing provisions in numerous laws are administered separately, with individual legislative frameworks.

    “The proposed reforms seek to consolidate these multiple taxes, integrating CIT, PIT, CGT, VAT, PPT, and excise duties into a unified structure to reduce administrative fragmentation.

    “On the proposed derivation-based VAT distribution model, which the Northern Governors oppose, it must be stressed that the new proposal, as enunciated in the Bill, is designed to create a fairer system.

    “The current model for distributing VAT is based on where the tax is remitted rather than where goods and services are supplied or consumed. The ongoing tax reform seeks to correct the inherent inequity in the current derivation model as a basis for distributing VAT revenue.

    “The new proposal before the National Assembly outlines a different form of derivation which considers the place of supply or consumption for relevant goods and services. 

    “This means that states in the Northern region that produce the food we eat should not lose out just because their products are VAT-exempt or consumed in other states.

    “These reforms are critical to improving the lives of Nigerians and were not put forward by President Tinubu to undermine any part of the country. 

    “There is no better time than now  for the National Assembly to give due consideration to these bills that will overhaul our tax systems and create the revenue all the tiers of government require  to fund the development our country and people urgently need”, the statement reads. 

    Explaining the Tinubu administration’s larger tax reforms further, the statement said “President Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council recently endorsed new policy initiatives aimed at streamlining Nigeria’s tax administration processes, enhancing efficiency and eliminating redundancies across the nation’s tax operations.

    “These reforms emerged after an extensive review of existing tax laws. The National Assembly is considering four executive bills designed to transform and modernise Nigeria’s tax landscape.

    “First is the Nigeria Tax Bill, which aims to eliminate unintended multiple taxation and make Nigeria’s economy more competitive by simplifying tax obligations for businesses and individuals nationwide.

    “Second, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill (NTAB) proposes new rules governing the administration of all taxes in the country. Its objective is to harmonise tax administrative processes across federal, state and local jurisdictions for ease of compliance for taxpayers in all parts of the country.

    “Third, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill seeks to rename the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) as the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) to better reflect the mandate of the Service as the revenue agency for the entire federation, not just the Federal Government.

    “Fourth, the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill proposes the creation of a Joint Revenue Board to replace the Joint Tax Board, covering federal and all states’  tax authorities.

    Read Also: Presidency commends Senate leadership for efficient ministerial screening

    “The fourth bill also suggests establishing the Office of Tax Ombudsman under the Joint Revenue Board, which would serve as a complaint resolution body for taxpayers.

    “It is instructive to note that these proposed laws will not increase the number of taxes currently in operation. Instead, they are designed to optimise and simplify existing tax frameworks.

    “The tax rates or percentages will remain the same under these reforms, as they focus on ensuring a more equitable distribution of tax obligations without adding to the burden on Nigerians.

    “The reforms will not lead to job losses. On the contrary, they are structured to stimulate new avenues for job creation by supporting a dynamic, growth-oriented economy.

    “Importantly, these laws will not absorb or eliminate the duties of any existing department, agency, or ministry. Instead, they aim to harmonise revenue collection and administration across the federation to ensure efficiency and cooperation.

    “At the moment, tax administration lacks coordination among federal, state, and local tax authorities, often resulting in overlapping responsibilities, confusion, and inefficiency. Without reform, this inefficiency will persist”, the statement said.

  • Why, how Tinubu fired Ministers, by presidency

    Why, how Tinubu fired Ministers, by presidency

    The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga has revealed why he dismissed five Ministers from his cabinet.

    Onanuga, in an interview with AriseTV on Thursday, October 24, disclosed that the sack of the ministers was based on the public scorecard.

    He added the overall revamp of the cabinet was a significant undertaking and part of the President’s plan since the Ministers were sworn in last year.

    The aide recalled that the President’s Special Adviser on Policy, Hadiza Bala Usman, was tasked with overseeing the performance appraisal, which included collecting public feedback on the ministers.

    Onanuga said: “He told them that he has the power to hire and fire, and that he would not hesitate to remove ministers who could not perform.

    “He also mentioned that there’ll be a performance appraisal which he said Hadiza Bala Usman, his Special Adviser on Policy should lead.

    Read Also: NANS hails Tinubu over redeployment of Alausa as Education Minister

    “Hadiza brought technology to the task, asking Nigerians to score the ministers.

    “So, whomever was removed out of the Ministers was removed based on empirical facts. The public perception of those Ministers, and they are the people who actually did the scorecard. The President only acted on the result, that is the public perception of those ministers, that’s what happened.”

    The Nation reported Tinubu on Wednesday, October 23, reshuffled his cabinet, sacking about five Ministers, reassigning 10 and appointing seven new Minister-designates.

  • No leadership vacuum, says Presidency

    No leadership vacuum, says Presidency

    There is no leadership vacuum despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima being out of the country, the Presidency said yesterday.

    Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the President and Vice President remain fully engaged with the nation’s affairs while abroad.

    President Tinubu on October 3 travelled for a two-week working vacation; Vice President Shettima departed for Sweden yesterday for an official visit.

    Onanuga said all state organs are functioning normally, with the Senate President, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, ministers, and Service chiefs carrying out their duties as usual.

    He stressed that this is not an unprecedented situation, as similar instances occurred in 2022 and earlier this year, with no disruption to governance.

    Read Also; Now that NNPCL is out of the radar

    He said in 2022 former President Muhammadu Buhari attended the United Nations General Assembly while former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo attended Queen Elizabeth II’s burial.

    “Following enquiries by journalists as to who is in  charge of our country as the President and Vice President are out of the country, we want to clarify:

    “It is important to note that the President and Vice President are fully engaged with the nation’s affairs, even while they are away. There is no leadership vacuum in the country.

    “The Constitution, a testament to our adaptability in the virtual age, does not explicitly require the physical presence of either the president or the vice president in the country at all times to fulfil his duties,” Onanuga said in a statement.

  • Presidency to MDAs: prioritise National Assembly invitations

    Presidency to MDAs: prioritise National Assembly invitations

    The Presidency on Monday, October 14, directed all heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of the federal government to make it a duty to honour National Assembly invitations.

    This directive may not be unconnected with media reports bordering on threats by the Senate to issue arrest warrants against chief executive officers of agencies and ministers for consistent failure to appear before the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.

    The Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Senator Basheer Lado, made this appeal in a statement in Abuja.

    Lado described the threat by the Senate against alleged recalcitrant heads of agencies as worrisome, noting that a smooth working relationship between the executive and legislative is sine qua non to the realization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The statement reads in part: “The Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters wishes to reaffirm the importance of close and constructive collaboration between Ministries, Extra-Ministerial Departments and Agencies, and the National Assembly, particularly its Senate committees, as a cornerstone of good governance and accountability.

    “This cooperation is not only a constitutional imperative but also essential to achieving the bold vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in delivering rapid and transformative benefits to all Nigerians.

    “Under the leadership of President Tinubu, this administration is fully committed to upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and service excellence.

    “The President’s Renewed Hope Agenda is built on the premise of quick and efficient governance, one that brings tangible democratic dividends to the people without delay.

    “A critical part of realizing this vision involves a proactive, respectful, and transparent relationship between government bodies and the Senate in its oversight role.

    “The Office has noted some concerns that some agencies may not have consistently adhered to Senate invitations or requests for appearances before committees.

    “While we acknowledge that competing official engagements may sometimes make it challenging for agencies to respond promptly to Senate invitations, it remains essential that these opportunities for engagement are prioritized to demonstrate our continued collective commitment to accountability and good governance.

    “Engaging with Senate committees is an important opportunity for agencies to showcase their dedication to public service and accountability, while further reinforcing the people’s confidence in government.

    “The Office of the Special Adviser to the President respectfully appeals to all government agencies to continue to honour their commitment by responding to invitations from Senate committees.

    “This aligns not only with constitutional obligations but with President Tinubu’s vision for a government that is responsive, effective, and fully accountable to the Nigerian people.

    Read Also: UNHRC election: Nigeria wasn’t snubbed, didn’t contest, says Presidency

    “In line with Mr. President’s vision, the office seeks to strengthen the partnership between the Executive and Legislative arms of government, a partnership that will be instrumental to delivering on our promises to the nation.

    “Cooperation, transparency, and shared responsibility are the guiding principles as we collectively work towards the swift realization of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “The Office of the Special Adviser on Senate Matters remains dedicated to supporting this process and facilitating open channels of communication between agencies and the National Assembly, to ensure that all contribute meaningfully to our shared mission of national development.”