NIGERIA NEWS
FG introduces mandatory drug testing for federal public service recruitment
The Federal Government has approved mandatory pre-employment drug testing for applicants seeking entry into the federal public service.
The disclosure was contained in a statement issued on Monday by Segun Imohiosen, Director, Information & Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
The policy applies to recruitment across all federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies, including extra-ministerial departments and parastatals.
What the FG is saying
According to the Federal Government, Permanent Secretaries and Heads of extra-ministerial departments and parastatals have been directed to make drug testing a compulsory requirement in all federal recruitment exercises.
The directive was issued through a service-wide circular addressed to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
“The Federal Government has approved the introduction of mandatory pre-employment drug testing as a requirement for prospective applicants into the Public Service, being part of ongoing efforts to curb the rising menace of illicit drug use and its attendant consequences on national development and security,” the statement read in part.
The statement noted that MDAs are to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in conducting the tests, in line with established standards and procedures. This is intended to ensure consistency, credibility, and compliance across the public service.
Rationale behind the directive
The statement noted that the directive was prompted by concerns over the rising rate of drug and substance abuse in the country, especially among young people.
It warned that the trend threatens public health, workplace productivity, socio-economic development, and national security.
The government added that compulsory pre-employment drug testing aims to shield the federal workforce from unwholesome practices.
It also seeks to strengthen discipline, accountability, and professionalism within public institutions.
What you should know
About 14.3 million Nigerians are affected by drug abuse, according to Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Before this directive was extended to federal public service recruitment, the government had already implemented initiatives to test and monitor drug use among youths and other key groups.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) recently introduced drug integrity tests for corps members, prospective couples, and other youth groups to curb substance abuse and enable early intervention.
Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), NDLEA Chairman, emphasized that the tests are not punitive but form part of a broader strategy to reduce drug demand and protect families and communities from its harmful effects.
Some months ago, the Federal Government announced plans to introduce compulsory drug testing for university students and revise the secondary school curriculum to include drug education.
This initiative involves collaboration between the NDLEA and the Federal Ministry of Education to integrate drug education into secondary schools and enforce mandatory drug testing in tertiary institutions.
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…seize 652,000 litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
…two impersonators of the COAS arrested in Edo
Troops engaged in internal security operations across the country have killed several terrorists and recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition in the ongoing onslaught against non-state actors.
In the past week, the troops also arrested criminals and terrorist collaborators and rescued kidnap victims during operations spanning five geopolitical zones nationwide.
They also seized 652,000 litres of stolen crude, destroyed three illegal refining sites, and arrested five oil thieves.
In the North East, where troops are battling Boko Haram and its splinter groups, several Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP/JAS) fighters were killed, weapons were recovered, and three kidnap victims were rescued.
A statement by the Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, on Monday, revealed that troops repelled an ISWAP attack on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, striking a blow to the group’s capability.
According to the statement, terrorists tried to breach the base with two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), but were detected and neutralised, preventing their penetration into the troops’ location.
“The operation led to multiple terrorist casualties and seized weapons, ammunition, and logistics,” the statement said.
According to the statement, troops discovered and safely detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) along the Damboa–Komala axis, thereby ensuring the safety of commuters. They also intercepted a Lagos-registered vehicle along the Maiduguri–Bama Road conveying suspected logistics supplies for Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and arrested two suspects.
“Also, seven of their collaborators, informants, sympathizers, and spies were arrested, while three kidnapped victims were rescued,” it said.
In the North West theater of operation, from December 12 to 17, troops conducted offensive operations in Zurmi, Maradun, Maru, and Bukkuyum Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Zamfara State; Kachia, Kaura, and Igabi LGAs of Kaduna State; Sabon Birni and Isa LGAs of Sokoto State; Wasagu and Bagudo LGAs of Kebbi State; Malumfashi and Rafi LGAs of Katsina and Niger States.
According to the statement, during these operations, troops killed several terrorists, arrested eight others, rescued four kidnap victims, and recovered weapons, vehicles, livestock, and other household items.
Earlier, on December 3, during a routine check at Kadage in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State, troops intercepted two passengers carrying ₦9,000,000.00 intended for the payment of ransom to secure the release of six of their adopted children.
“Efforts are ongoing to arrest the perpetrators.”
The statement said that troops of Operation Enduring Peace conducted operations between December 13 and 18 in Bassa, Jos North, Riyom, Jos South, Mangu and Jos East LGAs of Plateau State, as well as Kaura, Sanga, Jema’a, and Kafanchan LGAs of Kaduna State, during which several terrorists were neutralised, 16 suspects were arrested, and 19 kidnap victims were rescued.
It said, “Similarly, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States between December 13 and 17, conducted several offensive operations to various kidnappers’ hideouts in Akwanga, Nasarawa Eggon, Awe and Obi LGAs of Nasarawa State as well as Apa, Otukpo, Guma, Ukum LGAs of Benue State.
“They responded to distress calls on kidnapping activities in Takum, Wukari, and Karim Lamido LGAs of Taraba State, as well as Lokoja, Ijumu, Kabba, Kogi, Ifelodun, and Eru LGAs of Kogi and Kwara States, respectively. During the operations, troops arrested eight suspected kidnappers, while 43 kidnapped victims were rescued. Arms and ammunition, motorcycles and other items were also recovered.”
On operations against oil theft, the statement said that in the Operation DELTA SAFE theatre, covering Bayelsa, Delta, Imo, and Rivers states, troops foiled oil theft valued at over ₦15,697,975.00 during the week.
The breakdown, according to the statement, showed that troops recovered 652,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,510 litres of diesel, and 2,015 litres of petrol. In addition, three illegal refining sites were destroyed, while five oil thieves were arrested.
It stated that during air and land operations conducted between December 13 and 17 in Yenagoa and Kolokuma/Opukuma LGAs of Bayelsa State, as well as Okrika and Oyigbo LGAs of Rivers State, troops arrested nine criminal suspects, including three suspected gunrunners found in possession of arms and ammunition. The suspects are now in custody for interrogation.
The statement further said that on December 11, following intelligence reports, troops apprehended two individuals impersonating the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, in Utesi, Ovia South West LGA of Edo State. The suspects are currently in troop custody, undergoing investigation before being handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.
On operations in the SouthEast region, the statement said troops of Operation UDO KA conducted offensive operations within the South East region and encountered Indigenous People of Biafra/ Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN) fighters.
“For instance, between December 12 and 15, troops arrested four suspected criminals in Ihiala, Ogbaru, and Onitsha North LGAs of Anambra State,” the statement said.
Governor Uba Sani has signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, with education taking the largest share of 25% of the N985.9 billion budget of Kaduna State.
Speaking at the Council Chambers of Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, the governor said that the budget “reflects our resolve to consolidate the gains we have made while laying even stronger foundations for sustainable growth.”
Governor Uba Sani disclosed that ₦698.9 billion, representing 70.9 percent of the budget, has been devoted to capital expenditure, targeted at infrastructure development, economic expansion, and improved service delivery.
He also said that “recurrent expenditure stands at ₦287 billion, or 29.1 percent, ensuring that essential government services continue to function efficiently and responsibly.”
Giving a breakdown of the budget, the Governor said that education got 25 percent of the budget “because we believe that knowledge is the most powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and securing the future of our children.
“Infrastructure and rural transformation also account for 25 percent, reflecting our determination to open up communities, connect markets, and stimulate economic activity across the state.
“Health takes15 percent, affirming our conviction that a healthy population is the foundation of productivity and human dignity.
“Agriculture and food security receive 11.65 percent, reinforcing our commitment to feeding our people, empowering farmers, and strengthening our local economy,” he disclosed.
According to Governor Uba Sani, his administration “also made deliberate provisions for climate change activities, nutrition, and environmental sustainability, recognising the realities of our time and our responsibility to future generations.”
Titled Budget of “Consolidation of Transformation for Inclusive Development,” he pointed out that its defining feature is the administration’s resolve to correct long-standing exclusion errors.
“By allocating ₦100 million to every ward in Kaduna State for community-driven projects, we are empowering our people to determine their priorities and drive development from the grassroots. This is governance that listens, governance that includes, and governance that delivers,” he argued.
Governor Sani maintained that his government is committed to fiscal discipline and responsible financial management.
“The 2026 budget introduces no new loans, and we have already paid ₦114.9 billion in debt servicing. This reflects our determination to protect the future of Kaduna State while meeting the needs of the present,” he disclosed.
According to him, the 2026 budget is more than figures and projections because it promises “progress, opportunity, and a better quality of life for every citizen of Kaduna State.”
The governor, however, said that its success will depend on effective implementation and continued collaboration with Kaduna State House of Assembly, assuring a cordial and productive working relationship with the legislature.
“Together, we have helped position Kaduna as Nigeria’s bastion of peace and tranquility, and together we will sustain this stability as the bedrock of development. By working together, we will consolidate transformation, deepen inclusion, and build a Kaduna State that truly works for all,” he promised.
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The Kano State Police Command has arrested a notorious armed robbery suspect, Abba Aliyu, popularly known as ‘Abba Fiya’, following a prompt response to a distress call in the Hausawa Quarters area of Kano.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, on Monday, the suspect was arrested on Sunday, December 21, 2025, by operatives of the Anti-Daba Unit of the Police Command while responding to a report of an armed robbery incident.
Kiyawa said the suspect, a 26-year-old resident of Dala Quarters, Kano, is known for specialising in armed robbery, adding that a sharp knife was recovered from him at the point of arrest.
He disclosed that during interrogation, Abba Fiya confessed to participating in several armed robberies and rival gang clashes across areas such as Gobirawa Gangare, Dala, and Tudun Fulani Mayanka in Kano. “On discreet investigation, the suspect further confessed to a series of armed robberies resulting in deaths, injuries, and the theft of property in Kano, Rivers, and Lagos States,” the police spokesman said.
The police noted that investigation into the case was ongoing and assured that the suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Commending the officers involved in the operation, the Commissioner of Police urged members of the public to continue cooperating with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements or activities.
He advised residents to contact the nearest police station or use the Command’s emergency lines 08032419754, 08123821575, and 09029292926 or the NPF Rescue Me application.
The Faleke Ambassadors for Asiwaju 2027, a vibrant grassroots movement dedicated to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, has showered encomiums on the President and Nigeria’s gallant security forces for the triumphant rescue of all abducted students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Niger State.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the group hailed the release of the final batch of 130 students on Sunday as a resounding triumph that vividly illustrates President Tinubu’s steadfast resolve to safeguard the lives of every Nigerian, especially the most vulnerable.
The Faleke Ambassadors for Asiwaju praised the President’s decisive deployment of security assets and the seamless coordination that ensured the children’s safe arrival in Minna,
The statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Dauda Jerry, said: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has once again proven that under his leadership, no Nigerian child will be abandoned in the hands of criminals.
“This victory is Renewed Hope made manifest—lives saved, families restored, and hope reignited.
“This historic rescue stands as undeniable proof of the strength and efficiency of Mr President’s security framework, sending a powerful message that Nigeria is progressively safer and more secure under his administration.”
The federal lawmaker representing Ikeja Federal Constituency, Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, National Leader and Grand Patron of the group, was specially celebrated by members who described him as the “unquestionable architect of loyalty and progress.”
“As devoted disciples and followers of our revered leader, Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, we celebrate his unparalleled commitment to President Tinubu’s vision.
“His visionary guidance, loyalty, and tireless advocacy have inspired thousands across the nation to stand firmly with the President,” the statement declared.
The Forum expressed deep appreciation for Hon. Faleke’s immense contributions to the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in championing economic development, infrastructure renewal, and youth empowerment initiatives that have brought meaningful progress to the nation.
“Under Hon. Faleke’s mentorship and strategic leadership, our Network has become a formidable force for good. His selfless service, political sagacity, and dedication to national unity continue to inspire us as we march forward toward 2027,” the statement added.
“We call on all Nigerians to continue supporting President Tinubu’s administration. His successes in security and economic reforms are clear for all to see.”
The Faleke Ambassadors for Asiwaju reaffirmed its total and unconditional endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in 2027, pointing to his outstanding achievements in security, economic revitalisation, infrastructure transformation, and inclusive governance as compelling reasons for all Nigerians to rally behind him.
“With President Tinubu at the helm and leaders like Hon. James Abiodun Faleke guiding our steps, the entire nation is assured of a brighter, more prosperous future”.
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The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday performed the official groundbreaking ceremony for the new headquarters of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) in Ikeja, marking a major boost to the state’s security infrastructure.
The project being valued at over N800 million, will be fully funded by renowned industrialist and philanthropist, Sir Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu, who has demonstrated immense commitment to security in Lagos, being one of the largest and long-standing donors of the LSSTF.
The brief ceremony, held at the LSSTF Headquarters, the project site, brought together senior government officials, heads of security agencies, captains of industry and key stakeholders committed to strengthening security governance in Lagos State.
This includes the donor himself, Odole Oodua, Sir Kessington Adebutu and his wife, Mrs Kofoworola Adebutu; the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat; the SSG, Dr Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin; the Lagos State Chief of Staff, Mr Tayo Ayinde; the Head of Service in Lagos; and the Commissioner for Information, Mr Gbenga Omotoso. Others are the Chairman of the LSSTF Board, Mr Kehinde Durosinmi Etti, a member of the Board and Chairman of Lagos Conference 57, among others.
In his speech before performing the groundbreaking at the project site, Gov. Sanwo-Olu described the project as a strategic investment that reinforces the unwavering commitment of Lagos State to safeguarding lives and properties, and ensuring the safety of economic assets in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
He noted that the new headquarters would enhance coordination, accountability and operational efficiency of the LSSTF, which has become a cynosure of eyes for championing the security architecture across states and the Federation.
The Governor said: ‘Almost 20 years ago, when we started, it was humbling then because God made it possible for me to be a part of the journey at that time.
The former Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola charged us that this is a vision that must outlive us. I can say clearly today, with what is happening today, that this will outlive all of us. One man that God has used to ensure that we can do that is Sir Kessington Adebutu.’
He highly commended the donor, Sir Kessington Adebutu, for the extraordinary generosity, describing the donation as a powerful example of how wealthy individuals and corporate institutions should address critical societal needs.
‘For 19 years we have kept the faith with the Fund and to our donor,s which has made the LSSTF to become the pride of all the funds that we have in this country but when the new Executive Secretary/CEO said just less than 2 months ago as he hit the ground running saying that we cannot continue to live in a rented apartment. He said that he will talk to our father, and I said Yes, he is the right person. ”
The Chairman of the Board of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund LSSTF Mr. Kehinde Durosinmi Etti in his goodwill message recalled how the Fund as moved from its early stages holding meetings in the Office of Establishment which incidentally was held by Sanwo-Olu as Commissioner and how the Fund has stayed in a rented property for about 18 year but today is a proud moment for him as a person. He reiterated ‘As we break ground today, we are reminded that security is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration between government, the private sector, and all stakeholders.
This project stands as evidence of what can be achieved when vision, leadership, and partnership come together in service of the public good. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I extend our sincere appreciation to Sir Kensington Adebutu for his exceptional generosity, particularly his commitment to delivering the fully furnished building by October 2026.’
In his address, the Executive Secretary/CEO of LSSTF, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, said the new purpose-built headquarters would significantly improve the Trust Fund’s capacity to support security agencies across the state with equipment, logistics and strategic interventions. ‘As we break ground today, we do so with renewed commitment, optimism, and a strong sense of responsibility.
This project reinforces the principle upon which the LSSTF was founded, that security is a collective duty, best achieved through partnership and shared resolve,’ Ogunsan said.
Dr Ogunsan expressed deep appreciation to Sir Kessington Adebutu, describing his support as visionary and impactful. ‘This singular act of generosity remains both humbling and inspiring, and it speaks volumes about Baba’s unwavering commitment to the safety, stability, and progress of Lagos State.
In recognition of his exceptional philanthropy, steadfast commitment to public safety, and enduring support for Lagos State, the Board of the Fund resolved that this facility shall be named the “Sir Kensington Adebutu Security Trust Fund Building.”
On his part, the donor, Sir Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu, described his donation as a ‘call to duty’ which he is humbled and deeply honoured to answer while also thanking the Governor for his visionary leadership.
He said: ‘I regard it not merely as a privilege but as a duty first and foremost to our beloved Lagos State, the heart of Nigeria’s commerce and enterprise, and a beacon of hope for the black African world.
Through this landmark intervention, we take a decisive step towards safeguarding our people, securing our market, and ensuring that Lagos remains a sanctuary of peace, stability, and opportunity for Lagosians by birth, residence, or aspirations.’
When completed, the new LSSTF headquarters will stand as a fitting legacy of impact by Sir Kessington Adebutu and a worthy testament of leadership, partnership and commitment to security excellence in Lagos State.
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The Edo State Police Command says it arrested 821 suspects for various criminal offences in 2025.
DAILY POST reports that the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, disclosed this at a press briefing while reeling out the scorecard of the Command in the outgoing year.
Agbonika added that in the period under review a total of 377 kidnap victims were rescued by operatives of the Command.
He said 39 were arrested for armed robbery, 171 for kidnapping, 117 for murdered, 62 for rape/sexual, 239 for cultism, 36 unlawful possession of firearms and 157 for other offences
According to him, 11 stolen vehicles, 188 arms of different calibres and 422 assorted ammunition were recovered in the period under review.
The commissioner, however, disclosed that in line with the proactive and intelligence-driven policing strategy for the Yuletide season, the Command significantly strengthened security across the state through intensified visibility policing, strategic patrols, targeted stop-and-search operations, intelligence-led deployments, and sustained community engagement.
According to him, the measures were designed to deter criminal activities, inspire public confidence, and guarantee the safety of residents and visitors throughout the festive period.
The CP added that a central pillar of the efforts was the clearance operation conducted in Edo North, which he personally led, in fulfilment of the Command’s commitment to deny criminal elements access to forests and other ungoverned spaces.
“This operation was carried out with the approval and strategic support of the InspectorGeneral of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun who graciously authorized the deployment of Nigeria Police helicopter and drones from the Police Air Wing. I also acknowledge the support of his excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo who provided the necessary logistics for the operation.
“The operation featured the coordinated deployment of ground troops alongside aerial assets, ensuring comprehensive operational coverage.
“The clearance operation which spanned from Saturday, 14th December to Saturday, 20th December, 2025 will be sustained. It was executed through a robust inter-agency collaboration involving the Nigerian Army Mechanized 4 Brigade, NAF 107 Air Maritime Group, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Forest Guards, local Vigilante groups and hunters.
“This joint approach underscores our collective resolve to confront and neutralize security threats in the state, decisively, the CP said.
Agbonika, however, alerted members of the public against the disturbing trend of disappearance of corpses from some morgues within Edo State.
While noting that such acts are criminal, inhuman, callous and a gross violation of the sensitivity of the bereaved, he assured the public that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
He advised families and those in need of mortuary services to patronize government-owned mortuaries where proper oversight and accountability are guaranteed.
NIGERIA NEWS
President Tinubu sends Christmas message to Enenche Enenche, thanks him, pledges unalloyed support
Popular Abuja-based Political Analyst, Public Affairs Commentator, Master of Ceremonies and writer, Enenche Enenche, has expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the goodwill Christmas message sent to him and his family, describing it as thoughtful and deeply encouraging.
President Tinubu, in the message personally addressed to Enenche, extended warm wishes for the festive season, praying that the spirit of love, kindness and generosity would fill his heart and home.
The President also prayed for God’s blessings upon Nigeria, asking for peace, prosperity and progress in the coming year, while urging citizens to embrace the promise of Renewed Hope through hard work and commitment.
The message from the President reads: “Dear Enenche Enenche,
As we mark this special season, I extend my warmest wishes to you and your loved ones.
May the spirit of love, kindness, and generosity that defines this time of year fill your heart and home.
As we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, may the Almighty God bless our great nation, Nigeria, with peace, prosperity, and progress.
May the promise of Renewed Hope inspire us to dream big, work hard, and achieve greatness in the coming year.
Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year.
Reacting to the message, Enenche said he does not take the gesture for granted, noting that it means a great deal to him and his family.
“I am deeply honoured and grateful to Mr. President for this goodwill message. It is not something I take for granted at all. It means so much to me and my family,” Enenche said.
He described the President’s words as timely and reassuring, especially at a period when Nigerians are yearning for hope and renewed confidence in leadership.
“The message reinforces the Renewed Hope agenda and reminds us that with unity, hard work and faith in God, Nigeria will continue to move forward,” he added.
Enenche, a staunch supporter of the Tinubu administration, reaffirmed his unalloyed support for the President’s mandate, pledging to continue promoting the policies and programmes of the Federal Government.
“I remain fully committed to the Tinubu mandate. I will continue to support and promote the good work of this administration in any way I can,” he said.
He remains one of the few MCs in Nigeria known for proudly flying President Tinubu’s signature broken shackles cap, a symbol of his consistent loyalty and support.
Also a known supporter of United States President Donald Trump, Enenche wished President Tinubu and his family a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, praying for good health, wisdom and strength as the President continues to steer the affairs of the nation.
“I wish Mr. President and his family a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in good health. May God continue to grant him wisdom and strength to lead Nigeria to greater heights,” Enenche stated.
According to him, the President’s message has further strengthened his resolve to continue promoting the achievements and positive strides of the Tinubu administration in the year ahead.
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has lauded the cabals in his administration, describing them as instrumental to the successes recorded in his government.
Naija News reports that Ododo made the disclosure during a public event in his hometown on Sunday, noting that the leader of his cabal was approved by his predecessor, former Governor, Yahaya Bello.
Ododo openly admitted belonging to a cabal and praised the effectiveness of those working with him.
According to the Governor, effective teamwork, regardless of how it is labelled, should be encouraged if it delivers results.
Ododo said he was proud of his cabale, stressing that one of its achievements was the project billed for commissioning at the event.
He said, “I want to formally appreciate the leader of my own cabal. I was a member of a cabal before, but our own cabal could not perform the way this present cabal is working.
“If any cabal can work like this, I think we should even have multiple cabals, as many as we can.
“I am proud to tell you that I have a cabal. One of the achievements of having a cabal is what we are about to commission here today.”
“The leader of my own cabal, approved by His Excellency Alhaji Yahaya Bello, is Hajiya Dr Habibat Tijjani Aliyu, FCMA.”
According to the governor, the group includes key government officials, including the Accountant-General, Auditor-General, party chairman, Special Adviser on Protocol, and the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs.
The chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, has rejected claims that Nigeria’s newly enacted tax reform laws were altered after their passage by the National Assembly, saying materials circulating in the media are false and based on documents that are not authoritative.
The dispute erupted after a member of the House of Representatives, Abdulsamad Dasuki, alleged discrepancies between the tax laws passed by lawmakers and the versions later gazetted and released to the public.
Civil society groups and opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, subsequently called for the suspension of the laws, which are scheduled to take effect on 1 January 2026.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Monday, Mr Oyedele said the controversy rests on a fundamental problem, which is the absence of the officially certified harmonised bill passed by the National Assembly.
“Before you can say there is a difference between what was gazetted and what was passed, we have what has not been gazetted. We don’t have what was passed,” he said.
He explained that it is the only document that can authoritatively confirm what lawmakers approved is the harmonised version certified by the clerk of the National Assembly and transmitted to the president for assent.
According to him, that version is not publicly available, making comparisons with the gazetted law unreliable.
“The official harmonised bills certified by the clerk, which the National Assembly sent to the President, we don’t have a copy to compare,” Mr Oyedele said.
He added that neither the House of Representatives’ version nor the Senate’s version can be treated as final on their own, stressing that only lawmakers involved in the harmonisation process can confirm what was sent to the president.
He also addressed claims relating to a supposed provision requiring a 20 per cent deposit under Section 41(8), which has featured prominently in circulating reports.
Mr Oyedele said that provision appeared in an earlier draft but does not exist in the final gazetted law. He said enquiries he made showed that a document being circulated as a committee report did not originate from the House committee set up to review the issue.
“What is out there in the media did not come from the committee set up by the House of Representatives,” he said.
Beyond the immediate controversy, Mr Oyedele said the episode exposed deeper weaknesses in Nigeria’s legislative process, particularly around quality control and document security.
He warned that legislation is too important to be left vulnerable to confusion arising from multiple versions of the same law, noting that similar problems had occurred in the past with major laws such as the Petroleum Industry Bill and the Companies and Allied Matters Act.
President Bola Tinubu recently signed four tax reform bills into law, the Nigeria Tax Act, the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act, which are designed to operate under a single authority, the Nigeria Revenue Service.
READ ALSO: Tax Reforms: CISLAC expresses concern about alleged alteration of assented law
The federal government has described the reforms as the most significant overhaul of the country’s tax system in decades.
The laws, which faced resistance from some federal lawmakers, particularly from the northern part of the country, are intended to simplify tax compliance, expand the tax base, remove overlapping taxes and modernise revenue collection across federal, state and local governments.
For now, Mr Oyedele said the appropriate step is to allow lawmakers to conclude their investigation into the matter, after which any confirmed issues can be addressed based on the facts rather than speculation.
NIGERIA NEWS
Kogi First Lady’s Media Aide Reaches Out to Over 100 Vulnerable Women in Okehi Christmas Outreach
In a gesture reflecting the spirit of the Christmas season, the Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Kogi State on Electronic Media in the Office of the First Lady, Hon. Janet Samuel, has carried out a Christmas outreach programme to support vulnerable women in Okehi Local Government Area of the state.
The outreach, which took place ahead of the yuletide at Uboro/Omavie/Ohuepe Ward, benefitted more than 100 women drawn from different segments of the community, including widows, the elderly and persons with disabilities. The initiative was aimed at easing the effects of economic hardship and ensuring that beneficiaries celebrate the festive season with dignity.
Both Christian and Muslim women participated in the programme, receiving 5kg bags of rice, food ingredients and cash support. The gesture underscored the inclusive nature of the intervention and promoted unity and compassion among residents of the area.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Janet said the outreach was part of her personal commitment to giving back to society and supporting the people-centred vision of the Renewed Hope agenda being championed in Kogi State by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and his wife, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo.
She commended Governor Ododo for what she described as people-friendly policies, highlighting the prompt payment of salaries, infrastructural development and good governance initiatives that continue to positively impact citizens across the state.
Hon. Janet also praised the wife of the Governor for her consistent dedication to the welfare of women and vulnerable groups through empowerment programmes and humanitarian interventions.
According to her, the First Lady has ensured that women at the grassroots are continually reached through her aides, stressing that the wife of the Governor believes “no woman should go hungry or be left behind.”
She assured the beneficiaries of more dividends of democracy, while urging women at the grassroots to continue praying for the success of the present administration and for the re-election of Governor Ododo in 2027.
Also speaking at the event, former APC Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, Hon. Dauda Momohjimoh, expressed gratitude to the Governor for the ongoing construction of roads linking several villages in the community, describing the development as long overdue.
He further appreciated the wife of the Governor for extending support to women in the ward through Hon. Janet and appealed to the state government to address the community’s need for clean and potable water.
In her opening remarks, the Ward Special Assistant to the Governor, Hon. Hajara Achi, thanked Governor Ododo and the First Lady for their continued support and offered prayers for divine guidance for the administration.
She described the food distribution as timely, noting that it would help cushion the effects of prevailing economic challenges in the area. She also commended Hon. Janet for her representation at the state level and prayed for greater success in her political career.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Asmau Umar, a widow, expressed excitement over the outreach, describing it as unprecedented in the history of the community.
“This is the first time we are receiving rice in this quantity,” she said, while offering prayers for the Governor, the First Lady and the organisers, wishing them success ahead of the 2027 elections.
The Christmas outreach further underscores the importance of grassroots-driven humanitarian initiatives in fostering social cohesion and strengthening the connection between governance and the people of Kogi State.