The Nation Newspaper

Tag: tinubu

  • NGO hails Tinubu’s pension transformation

    NGO hails Tinubu’s pension transformation

    The Contributory Pension and Happy Retirement Advocacy (COPEHRA) has praised President Bola Tinubu’s transformational leadership in the industry over the past two years.

    Its Senior Technical Advisor, Alhaji Sani Mustapha, said this in an interview with reporters in Abuja.

    Mustapha said the industry, under the watch of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), has increased transparency, accountability, and the integrity of the pension system.

    He said the country’s pension fund assets soared to an all-time high of N24.11 trillion as of May 30, 2025.

    According to him, the growth was driven by strong performance in equities, mutual funds and federal government securities.

    He said the government approved the issuance of a N758 billion bond to settle the outstanding pension liabilities under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

    “The bond will also clear pension increases since 2007, amounting to N388 billion that had remained unpaid for nearly two decades.

    “This long-overdue entitlement, benefiting over 250,000 retirees, reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring that pensions remain fair and responsive to economic realities,” he said.

    Mustapha said it was the first time the Federal Government would be contributing N107 billion to the Pension Protection Fund (PPF).

    Read Also: Tinubu’s health policies can curb brain drain — Ex-Ondo governor Mimiko

    He said this was to ensure that pensioners, particularly low-income earners, receive a living wage in retirement.

    Mustapha said N11 billion was allocated to professors’ pension shortfall, fully implementing the provision allowing eligible professors to retire on their full salary.

    He said this major step was to strengthen the financial security for all retirees under the CPS.

    He also commended the plans to amend the Pension Reform Act (PRA), which was last reviewed in 2014.

    “The game changer was the March PenCom directive that effective June 1, Pension Fund administrators (PFAs) will now process and approve benefits directly.

    “By this directive, benefits approvals have received a boost in terms of timeliness and transparency. Pencom is always coming up with new policies that will benefit the Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders and the pensioners,” he said.

    He, however, said that making sure that states that are yet to join CPS do so, and employers remit employees’ pension contributions to their RSA had been a huge concern.

    “Pensioners no longer protest on the streets. They are given their rights, and I believe more good things are on the way,” he said.

    Mustapha said that Tinubu had achieved a lot, and urged the citizens to continue to support the government.

  • Our vision for FCT, by Tinubu

    Our vision for FCT, by Tinubu

    President Tinubu said yesterday that the ongoing infrastructure development across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is a testament to his administration’s commitment to building  a ‘’city  that works for everyone.’’

    This, he explained, is the reason his administration would continue to fund life-impacting projects in the FCT.

    “Our goal is to build a capital that works for everyone. Our vision for Abuja is not limited to its glittering centre. We are equally committed to its outskirts, to its margins and to its hidden corners where dreams often struggle to breathe,’’ the President added.

    Tinubu spoke at the inauguration of the Collector Road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Way) from Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) to Arterial Road N1 and other connecting Roads in the Dakibiyu District of Jabi, Abuja.

    The President, who was represented at the event by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, said that working capital cities show the presence of purposeful governments.

    His words: “The roads are a bold signature of our administration’s commitment to urban renewal and economic revitalisation.

      “Every road we build, every bridge we complete, every community we connect is a firm step towards a more inclusive, more equitable Nigeria.’’

    The President  added  that a modern and functional city “inspires confidence, attracts investment  and most importantly, restores the dignity of those who call it home.” He stressed that a nation’s functional capital serves as the foundation upon which a functioning country is built.

    “That is why today’s occasion is not just about commissioning a road. It is a grand reassurance that cities must work for their people and that a functioning capital is the foundation upon which a functioning nation is built.

    “The capital of this great nation must reflect the strength and dignity of all who call it home. We are determined to ensure that development knows no postcode, that governance does not discriminate, and that the dignity of our citizens is not defined by their geography.  

     “When a city works, when its roads are paved, when its lights stay on and when its arteries flow without congestion, it tells the world that its government is not just present but purposeful.  

      “ With the roads being built and inaugurated, commuting will be shortened and congestion will ease. Most crucially, livelihoods will flourish, Shops will open and markets will thrive. Children will reach school faster. Emergency services will arrive quicker.

    “This is what we mean when we speak of Renewed Hope. Not lofty rhetoric but practical impact. Not policy for the sake of politics, but policy translated into progress. This is Renewed Hope poured into concrete and paved across kilometres.”

    Tinubu pointed out that while inadequate infrastructure had choked the aspirations of many areas, the inauguration of the roads would breathe life into communities in Dakibuyi that had been waiting to be seen and served.

    The President praised  FCT Minister  Nyesom Wike and his team at the FCTA over what he described as their outstanding work.

    Read Also: Santuraki praises Tinubu for honouring military officers in June 12 struggle

    He said that Wike’s  “sense of urgency in the execution of these projects is well known to Nigerians.

    “ This administration remains steadfast in its support for the FCTA. We will continue to provide the resources, policy backing, and institutional cooperation needed to ensure that projects like these are delivered on time and to the highest standards. Our goal is to build a capital that works for everyone,” Tinubu added.

    Earlier, the FCT minister thanked the Tinubu-led Federal Executive Council for approving the project, which began in October 2024.

    Wike explained that the project became necessary due to the terrible state of the road leading to several government institutions in the area.

    “Your Excellency, I thank you for your continued support, and we will continue to solicit more,” he said.

    Also, FCT Minister of State   Mariya Mahmud lauded President Tinubu for his continued support to the FCTA  and the nation at large.

    Secretary of the  Police Service Commission (PSC) Onyemuche Nnamani also extolled President   Tinubu for his bold steps in infrastructural development.

  • Black race not lazy, says Tinubu

    Black race not lazy, says Tinubu

    • President gets knighthood honour in Saint Lucia
    • Reps to Finance Ministry: offset debts to OACPS

    The black race is not lazy, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared yesterday.

    He said it is made up of honest and hardworking people who can thrive globally, given the right opportunities.

    The President spoke on Monday night after receiving Saint Lucia’s highest national honour—Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL).

    “The black race is not lazy. We are hardworking and honest people. Given the opportunity, we can excel. We believe life itself has given us what we need.

    “We have no cause to regret, and we have every reason to celebrate life, opportunity, and excellence,” President Tinubu said during his investiture at Government House, Morne Fortune.

    According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President, who is on a state visit to the Caribbean nation, stressed the industriousness of Nigerians and the broader African diaspora.

    He called for deeper ties between Africa and the Caribbean as a vehicle to unlock the latent potential of black communities globally.

    “I come from a country where the people are incredibly hardworking and democratic in every aspect.

    “We must resume cultural exchanges and believe in economic development as a shared responsibility,” President Tinubu added.

    The symbolic conferral of the KCOSL, performed by Saint Lucia’s Governor-General, Sir Errol Charles, not only elevates President Tinubu to the status of knighthood but also serves as a moment of profound reflection on the transatlantic heritage that links Saint Lucia and Nigeria.

    “With this investiture, the Nigerian leader will now be known as Sir Bola Ahmed Tinubu, KCOSL (Hon.).

    “It is a gesture that acknowledges his leadership on the African continent and his continuing efforts to reconnect Africa and the Caribbean”, said the Governor-General.

    President Tinubu described the recognition as “thrilling and exciting,” adding that he came to Saint Lucia as a president but was “leaving as a knight.”

    Addressing Saint Lucia’s Parliament earlier in the day, President Tinubu pledged to initiate economic and cultural projects to reconnect the peoples of Africa and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

    Read Also: Jega: Tinubu has political will to end farmers-herders crisis

    Reps seek offset of OACPS debt

    Also yesterday, the House of Representatives asked the Federal Ministry of Finance to offset the nation’s debt to the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (OACPS) partnership to avoid suspension.

    Adopting a motion of urgent public importance, sponsored by Isiaka Ayokunle Ibrahim, the House mandated its committees to conduct a thorough and clinical examination of the prospects attached to Nigeria’s continued participation in the OACPS-EU partnership, including potential benefits and risks.

    The House asked the ministry to expedite the payment of all outstanding dues of EUR1,119,979.86 owed by Nigeria to the OACPS.

    According to Isiaka, Nigeria has been a beneficiary of various interventions and development programmes facilitated through the OACPS.

    He said under Section 5 of the OACPS Sanction Policy (Areas in contribution), member states are expected to meet their assessed financial obligation promptly to maintain their active participation and avoid sanctions.

    Isiaka said Nigeria’s cumulative assessed contribution to the OACPS stands at EUR1,119,979.86.

    He said, despite Nigeria’s substantial engagement with the OACPS, including access to over EUR1.7 billion in development grants and investment funds through the previous OACPS-EU Cotonou agreement (2000 to 2020), Nigeria’s outstanding contribution remains unpaid.

    According to him, Nigeria risks imminent suspension by the OACPS Secretariat, which could adversely affect its ongoing and future collaborations within the group.

    The lawmaker warned that such sanctions could undermine Nigeria’s diplomatic standing and reduce its access to critical development resources and partnerships.

  • I’m committed to building inclusive, thriving Nigeria – Tinubu

    I’m committed to building inclusive, thriving Nigeria – Tinubu

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that the ongoing infrastructure developments across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are clear evidence of his administration’s commitment to building an inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.

    Speaking on Tuesday during the commissioning of the newly completed Collector Road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Way) linking Arterial Roads N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) and N1 in the Dakibiyu District of Jabi, Abuja, Tinubu stated that modernising cities is one of the strongest indicators of a serious and purposeful government.

    “When a city works—when its roads are paved, its lights stay on, and its arteries flow without congestion—it tells the world that its government is not just present but purposeful,” he said.

    Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President said the benefits of the road projects would be both immediate and long-lasting.

    “Commutes will be shortened. Congestion will ease. Livelihoods will flourish. Shops will open. Markets will thrive. Children will get to school faster. Emergency services will arrive quicker,” he said.

    He added that this is the true meaning of his Renewed Hope agenda—“not lofty rhetoric but practical impact; not policy for politics’ sake, but policy translated into progress… Renewed Hope poured into concrete and paved across kilometres.”

    Tinubu further emphasized that the newly commissioned roads would revive communities long neglected and unlock new growth opportunities.

    “Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, our vision for Abuja is not limited to its glittering centre. We are equally committed to its outskirts, to its margins, to its hidden corners where dreams often struggle to breathe.

    “Every road we build, every bridge we complete, every community we connect is a firm step towards a more inclusive, more equitable Nigeria,” he noted, maintaining that “the roads are a bold signature of the administration’s commitment to urban renewal and economic revitalization.”

    The president further observed that a modern and functional city “inspires confidence, attracts investment, and most importantly, restores the dignity of those who call it home,” even as he said a nation’s capital that is functional serves as the foundation upon which a functioning country is built.

    “That is why today’s occasion is not just about commissioning a road. It is a grand reassurance that cities must work for their people and that a functioning capital is the foundation upon which a functioning nation is built.

    “The capital of this great nation must reflect the strength and dignity of all who call it home. We are determined to ensure that development knows no postcode, that governance does not discriminate, and that the dignity of our citizens is not defined by their geography,” he maintained.

    The President paid glowing tribute to the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, and his team at the FCTA over what he described as their outstanding work, stating that the Minister’s “sense of urgency in the execution of these projects is well known to Nigerians.

    “Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, this administration remains steadfast in its support for the FCTA. We will continue to provide the resources, policy backing, and institutional cooperation needed to ensure that projects like these are delivered on time and to the highest standards. Our goal is to build a capital that works for everyone,” he added.

    The newly commissioned roads connect the Police Service Commission Headquarters, FCT High Court Jabi, Code of Conduct Tribunal Headquarters, the new FCT Division of the Court of Appeal, the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology and many other important public and private institutions and residences.

    Earlier in his remarks, the FCT Minister, stated that the day’s commissioning of the roads marked the 14th day in a series of project commissioning initiated by the FCT administration.

    “When we wanted to find land for the construction of the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal, I was told by the director of lands that there was a space in this area. I came to inspect the land, but Your Excellency, you cannot believe that as a city, we could have such a terrible and horrible road.

    “Through the Federal Executive Council and by your support, this project was awarded last September, and we flagged it off in October. Today, we are commissioning it. I wanted your support and continue to solicit more support,” the Minister said.

    Also, Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmud, thanked President Tinubu for his continued support to the Federal Capital Territory Administration and his inclusive urban growth in the FCT and the nation at large.

    “We thank the Vice President for his continued support and steadfast commitment to the development of the nation; the FCT Minister and the entire FCT staff members, the engineers, contractors and every other person that has contributed to the success of this project,” she said.

    The Police Service Commission (PSC) also expressed sincere gratitude and commendation to President Bola Tinubu on the Completion and commissioning of roads in Dakibiyu District Jabi in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

    The Secretary to the Commission, Onyemuche Nnamani who represented the Commission at the ceremony extolled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold steps in infrastructural development of the country which had suffered several years of neglect.

    Onyemuche who spoke at the sidelines of the Commissioning ceremony said the PSC is one of the major beneficiaries of the newly constructed road project and will remain eternally grateful to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike for his decision to rehabilitate the roads around the area.

    He noted that visitors to the Commission will henceforth enjoy the good road network while settlements around Dakiyibu will be opened up for businesses and other related endeavours.

    Nnamani called for support for this government as it continues to give Nigerians the dividends of democracy.

    He noted that the Commission will continue to ensure that the Nigeria Police operates within the law and encouraged them to give their best in the service of the nation.

  • Tinubu’s health policies can curb brain drain — Ex-Ondo governor Mimiko

    Tinubu’s health policies can curb brain drain — Ex-Ondo governor Mimiko

    Former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, has said that the health sector reforms initiated by the administration of President Bola Tinubu have the potential to address Nigeria’s persistent brain drain—if adequately funded and properly implemented.

    Mimiko made the remark while delivering a lecture at an event in Akure on Tuesday to celebrate the 81st birthday of Senator Bode Olajumoke. The event was organised by the Bode Olajumoke Education and Hospitality Initiative (BOEHI).

    Presenting a paper titled: “Conqueror, Conquered and Consequences: A Discourse on Brain Drain,” Mimiko described the “Medical Health Revamp – System-wide Reform Anchored on Increased Funding” policy as a commendable step in halting the mass emigration of medical professionals from Nigeria.

    He noted that the proposed 15% budgetary allocation to the health sector marks a significant improvement from the historical maximum of 5%, and praised the 2023 National Policy on Health Workforce Migration as a timely intervention.

    “To fully tackle brain drain, Africa must realise it has moved from involuntary to voluntary conquest. The way forward is for our leaders to create enabling environments that retain our best brains for national development,” he said.

    While acknowledging some benefits of emigration such as skill transfer and technological advancement, Mimiko warned that the gains are being undermined by illicit financial flows and weakened local systems.

    Speaking at the event, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, commended Senator Olajumoke’s commitment to human welfare and praised Mimiko’s lecture for addressing the urgent issue of talent retention.

    The governor also pledged the state’s support for BOEHI’s initiatives aimed at improving education and healthcare access.

    Chairman of the occasion and former Chief of Staff to late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, Chief Olugbenga Ale, applauded the choice of topic and speaker, while the celebrant, Senator Olajumoke, expressed gratitude to God for life and pledged to continue impacting lives.

  • No coalition can stop Tinubu’s re-election, says Edo ex-Deputy Governor

    No coalition can stop Tinubu’s re-election, says Edo ex-Deputy Governor

    A former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Pius Odubu, has predicted doom for the planned coalition against the re-election of President Bola Tinubu.

    Odubu, who spoke at the celebration of his 68th birthday in Benin City, said there won’t be any threat against the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027, whether at the state or the federal level.

    Odubu said the ruling APC should brace up to manage its current successes of defectors from other political parties.

    According to him, “There is no coalition, but it is also good for there to be dissenting voices, no doubt, but today in Nigeria, APC is the dominant party. There is no threat at all, whether at the federal or local level. The challenge is really to manage the support base now, and if we manage it well, no problem.”

    Speaking on his future plans, Odubu said, “My future plan is to remain relevant, keep serving the people and keep believing in the people and keep helping the people to select those who will serve them well. It may not necessarily be me but provided that it is that person that will serve the people well. All we need is a master servant not a ruler.”

    “When you have time for the people, the people will have time for you. Just have genuine time for the people. When they need you, be there for them, so when you need them, they will also be there for you.

    Read Also: Santuraki praises Tinubu for honouring military officers in June 12 struggle

    “Governor Okpebholo is doing very well and like I have often told him, he has started very well and my prayer to God for him is for God to grant him the grace to finish well because the pace with which he has started now, if he keeps it up, there is nothing but excellence, he has started well and I do not doubt that he will finish well”

    Edo Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon Samson Osagie, described Odubu as a man with utmost humility and candour.

    “He enjoys a huge goodwill of the people, and my prayer for him on behalf of my family is to wish him many happy years. We are very happy that we have a man like him as our leader.”

    Among those present were a former Deputy Governor, Reverend Peter Obadan, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Owere Dickson Imasogie, a former Chief of Staff to Godwin Obaseki, Taiwo Akerele, Hon Razaq Bello-Osagie, Senator Matthew Urhoghide, among others.

  • Santuraki praises Tinubu for honouring military officers in June 12 struggle

    Santuraki praises Tinubu for honouring military officers in June 12 struggle

    Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Dr. Mohammed Kudu Santuraki, has commended President Bola Tinubu for the national honour recently given to some pro-democracy activists in the North in recognition of their roles during the June 12 struggles.

    He said the national honour on personalities, such as the military officers who stood firm for justice and democracy during the June 12 struggle, demonstrates President Tinubu’s dedication to promoting national unity and commitment to recognizing and rewarding contributions to Nigeria’s democracy and nation-building.

    President Bola Tinubu on June 12 conferred national honours on 84 prominent Nigerians, including retired military officers.

    Santuraki, who is Santurakin Nupe and Secretary-General of Niger-South Senior Stakeholders’ Forum, in a statement on Tuesday, noted that Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar’s (rtd) acceptance speech of the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) honour highlighted the significant roles some military officers played during the June 12 struggle.

    Col. Dangiwa (rtd) had in his acceptance speech on Sunday, praised Tinubu for the award, and listed Sultan of Sokoto, Etsu Nupe, Dasuki, Oyinlola, MA Garba, among June 12 ‘unsung heroes’, who “risk their careers and even lives” during the June 12 struggle.

    In his tribute to General Garba and others, Santuraki said the retired army General stood tall as Dangiwa’s deputy and stood firm for justice and democracy. 

    Santuraki noted that the HRH Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, whom Dangiwa identified as one of the unsung military officers who risked their careers to support the June 12 struggle, as a leading Royal father continues to champion peace, development, and democratic governance. He is a modern monarch with a good heart and open hands. 

    Read Also: 2023 Electricity Act will deepen energy access, economic drive in Niger – Santuraki

    He said: “Col. Dangiwa Umar’s (rtd) moving CFR acceptance speech reminds us of the selfless and quiet courage of many officers who stood firm for justice and democracy during the June 12 struggle. 

    “Among those gallant patriots, our own, Major General MA Garba (rtd) stands tall. As Col Dangiwa’s trusted deputy at the Armoured Corps Centre and School, Gen. Garba carried the torch when others were arrested or forced out. 

    “His unwavering commitment helped keep the hope of democratic restoration alive — at great personal risk.”

    He said, just like Dangiwa who was recognized with national honour, history will not forget other officers that stood for democracy.

    “You are celebrated today not only for your loyalty and patriotism, but for your enduring humility,” he said.

  • Tinubu conferred with Saint Lucia’s highest honour

    Tinubu conferred with Saint Lucia’s highest honour

    In a landmark diplomatic gesture underscoring deepening ties between Africa and the Caribbean, the Government of Saint Lucia has conferred one of its highest national honours—the Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL)—on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The announcement,  via the official X handle of the Office of the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia (@opmsaintlucia), stated “the Government of Saint Lucia is pleased to announce that the Governor General has conferred the title of Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL) upon H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

    The conferment was approved by the Governor General of Saint Lucia, acting on the advice of the Government, in recognition of President Tinubu’s “exceptional leadership on the African continent, his commitment to advancing South-South cooperation, and his efforts at rekindling cultural, historical, and diplomatic ties with the Caribbean.”

    Read Also: RMAFC: Tinubu’s tax laws will ease low-income earners’ burdens

    Tinubu, who is on a historic state visit to Saint Lucia as part of a broader diplomatic tour of the Caribbean and South America, becomes one of the few African leaders to receive the prestigious title. 

    The KCOSL is typically reserved for individuals who have rendered distinguished service of national or international significance to the island nation.

    Tinubu’s honour also comes amid a growing regional embrace of Nigeria’s re-engagement policy under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to reposition Africa’s largest democracy as a leader in global diplomacy and cultural diplomacy.

    The Order of Saint Lucia, established in 1985, is the island’s premier system of national honours, and the rank of Knight Commander is the second-highest grade, surpassed only by the Grand Cross.

  • Scholarship for Caribbean students to study in Nigeria begins next academic year – Tinubu

    Scholarship for Caribbean students to study in Nigeria begins next academic year – Tinubu

    President Bola Tinubu has announced that a scholarship scheme for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) will begin in the next academic year.
    ‎
    ‎He made the announcement during a joint press conference with Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip Pierre, on Monday in Gros Islet.
    ‎
    ‎This is contained in a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga and made available to newsmen in Abuja.
    ‎
    ‎The Nigerian leader said that the scholarship scheme is part of a broader cooperation framework between Nigeria and the OECS.
    ‎
    ‎He noted that the initiative aims to deepen people-to-people ties and expand collaboration in education, trade, and development.
    ‎
    ‎Tinubu  also revealed ongoing plans to introduce visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS countries.
    ‎
    ‎”I believe we can take advantage of our presence here to get from the fruit that is lower to us and then reach the opportunity we have right here.”
    ‎
    ‎”The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States is very close to us in Africa, and I thank them for the opportunity to address the joint session of Parliament.”
    ‎
    ‎”This will allow us actualise our dreams of getting closer to facilitate business and education opportunities, capacity building, and look at other areas of agriculture and food security.”
    ‎
    ‎”We can easily do that by having a working commission. And we don’t have to look farther away.”
    ‎
    ‎”The organisation itself has indicated several actions. We are moving forward from there. We won’t drop the ball,” he assured.

    Read Also: Sterling boosts ₦2bn scholarships with guaranteed jobs

    Tinubu stated that the scholarship programme was developed in partnership with the OECS member states.
    ‎
    ‎He added that a joint implementation committee comprising representatives from Nigeria and OECS member states will oversee the rollout.
    ‎
    ‎Their task will be to finalise modalities and ensure beneficiaries commence studies in Nigeria next academic year.
    ‎
    ‎When asked about potential challenges in expanding OECS cooperation in key sectors, President Tinubu responded:
    ‎
    ‎”I don’t look at difficulties. I look at problem-solving. And that is why the working lunch promoted a quick understanding of the expected difficulty level.”
    ‎
    ‎”If we take a geometric definition of a straight line, which is the quickest point between two points, if we move on a straight line, we get our goal achieved, and there will be no problems”.
    ‎
    ‎Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the initiative, calling it a timely and practical show of solidarity.
    ‎
    ‎”We expect students to begin their studies in Nigeria in the next academic year, based on the President’s directive. This is immediate action,” the Prime Minister said.
    ‎
    ‎He added that visa facilitation is now a key agenda item for the Nigeria–OECS Joint Committee.
    ‎
    ‎Other top priorities include enhancing air connectivity, trade, and tourism.
    ‎
    ‎Asked when reciprocal visa waivers might be implemented, Pierre stated:
    ‎
    ‎”Well, at the joint meeting, we discussed that. Additionally, there are some islands in the OECS, such as St. Kitts, where visa requirements do not apply.”
    ‎
    ‎”We said that the committee will deal with all these issues, and the first on the agenda will be the people-to-people exchange.”
    ‎
    ‎”This will come with the visa requirements. So we hope to have a speedy answer to that as soon as possible”.
    ‎
    ‎Earlier, President Tinubu addressed a special joint session of Saint Lucia’s Senate and House of Assembly, where he outlined his vision for a renewed and dynamic engagement between Nigeria and the OECS. (NAN)

  • RMAFC: Tinubu’s tax laws will ease low-income earners’ burdens

    RMAFC: Tinubu’s tax laws will ease low-income earners’ burdens

    The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has described the recent tax reform bills signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, as a major relief for millions of low-income Nigerians who have long struggled under the weight of taxation while earning modest incomes.

    Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Muhammed Shehu, in a statement, said the passage of these tax reforms, along with the new RMAFC bill, marks a transformative step towards strengthening the nation’s fiscal architecture. Tinubu’s determination to address longstanding issues in revenue generation, allocation, and economic management.

    “These reforms are not just administrative changes; they are deliberate efforts aimed at modernising Nigeria’s tax system, strengthening compliance, and widening the tax base. “Ultimately, this will promote inclusive economic growth across all sectors and reduce our over-reliance on oil revenue,” he said.

    Dr. Shehu added that the reforms are designed to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of public funds, paving the way for more sustainable economic development. The Commission believes the measures will stimulate growth, create a fairer tax environment, and give low-income earners the breathing space they desperately need.

    READ ALSO: Umar unveils 38 ‘unsung June 12 heroes’ in military

    Commending the President’s approach, Dr. Shehu described the reforms as a product of visionary leadership and a practical response to Nigeria’s socio-economic realities. “By signing these bills into law, President Tinubu has shown a deep understanding of the economic challenges faced by everyday Nigerians and has taken concrete action to address them,” he said.

    The Commission also extended appreciation to the National Assembly for its role in bringing the reforms into effect. Dr. Shehu acknowledged the efforts of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Honourable Tajudeen Abbas, as well as the Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi SAN, policymakers, and other stakeholders who worked collectively to move the legislation forward.

    Looking ahead, the RMAFC assured the federal government of its continued partnership in implementing the new tax framework. The Commission said it remains committed to collaborating with relevant agencies to ensure that the intended benefits of the reforms—greater revenue efficiency, fairer taxation, and broader economic growth—are fully realised.

    “These reforms represent a milestone in our national journey to diversify the economy and secure long-term prosperity for Nigerians,” Dr. Shehu said. “The Commission stands ready to support their full implementation for the benefit of all.”