NIGERIA NEWS
Terrorists Attack Kwara Community, Abduct Seven, Several Injured
Terrorists on Friday evening invaded Adanla community in Igbaja Ward 2, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, abducting seven residents and injuring several others, just a day after Christmas.
A source stated that the attack occurred at about 7:30 pm, plunging the usually peaceful community into panic, grief and mourning.
According to the source, the armed assailants stormed the community in large numbers, firing sporadically as they forcibly entered homes and abducted residents.
“Today, 26 December 2025, at about 7:30 pm, Adanla, Igbaja Ward 2, Ifelodun Local Government Area was invaded by bandits. Our peaceful community is in deep sorrow, grief and agony,” the source said.
The attackers reportedly kidnapped seven people during the raid, while several others sustained gunshot injuries. A young girl is said to have been seriously wounded and is currently fighting for her life.
“They invaded our homes during this festive season, forcibly kidnapped seven people, and injured several others. They fired multiple gunshots, and seven of our family members are now in the den of these heartless criminals,” the source added.
Residents described the incident as devastating, noting that families have been left shattered, with fear and uncertainty gripping the community.
As of the time of filing this report, it remains unclear whether security operatives have launched a rescue operation or made any arrests. Efforts to reach the Kwara State Police Command for official confirmation were unsuccessful.
NIGERIA NEWS
“Arrest Sheikh Gumi now” – Tinubu urged to ‘arrest’ controversial cleric over open support for terrorists
A Catholic deacon and writer, Nick Donnelly, has called for the arrest and prosecution of Nigerian Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, over his reaction to recent United States military operations in Nigeria.
Background: U.S. Christmas Airstrikes in Sokoto
The United States carried out Christmas Day airstrikes targeting insurgents in parts of Sokoto State.
The operation was aimed at groups accused of violent attacks and killings in northern Nigeria.
What Gumi Said
Sheikh Ahmad Gumi reacted sharply to the development.
He reportedly urged the Federal Government to suspend any cooperation with the U.S. in actions targeting those he claimed were being accused of “genocide against Christians.”
Nick Donnelly took to X to condemn Gumi’s position, accusing the cleric of defending violent extremists.
In his words: “Sheikh Gumi protests President Trump’s Christmas military strikes against the bestial Islamist terrorists. Calling the terrorists conducting the genocide against Christians ‘our warriors’.”
“Gumi Must Face Justice”
The Catholic deacon did not stop there.
He insisted Gumi should face serious legal consequences for his alleged role in supporting terrorism.
He stated: “Gumi must be arrested and put on trial for crimes against humanity.”
Call to President Tinubu
Donnelly also called out President Bola Tinubu, insisting the Nigerian leader must not stay silent on the matter.
“Tinubu must publicly condemn Gumi or else he is declaring his complicity in his crimes,” he added.
President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the ongoing recalibration of the nation’s security architecture would soon yield results capable of restoring public confidence.
The President gave the assurance on Friday during a meeting with a delegation of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, at his Lagos residence.
This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu said his administration remained committed to security sector reforms, including the establishment of state and community policing to address emerging threats across the country.
“The mood of the nation is peaceful, although our ungoverned spaces are so large. The challenge is real, but we will surmount it,” the president said.
He called on religious leaders to support government efforts through cooperation, vigilance and prayers, noting that some security measures required time to mature.
“We are very religious. We are prayer warriors. We need your focus, vigilance and cooperation,”
The president said state and community police would become a reality once the National Assembly completed the required legislative processes.
“Community and State Police will be a reality once the National Assembly completes the required legislative inputs,” he said.
Tinubu explained that delays in acquiring military hardware were affecting public perception, noting that such equipment was expensive and not readily available.
“Military hardware is difficult to replace. It is expensive and not available off the shelf,”
He disclosed that Nigeria had ordered four attack helicopters from the United States, while also engaging Turkey for additional support.
“Our orders for four attack helicopters from the United States of America will take some time to arrive. We have approached Turkey for assistance,”
The president said the government remained resolute despite the guerrilla tactics of bandits and insurgents, stressing that restoring peace remained a top priority.
On the recent abduction and release of school children in Niger and Kebbi States, Tinubu urged vigilance, saying the safety of the victims was paramount.
“The rhetoric on how the children were released or what happened to the kidnappers is secondary; the end justifies the means,” he said.
Responding, CAN President, Okoh, assured Tinubu of the Christian community’s support for his administration.
“You are our President. The Church has no choice but to support you and your administration,” Okoh said.
He commended the administration’s efforts at improving security, noting that the 2025 Christmas season was notably peaceful.
“This Christmas happened to be the first in many years that we were not woken up by midnight calls reporting attacks on churches,” he said.
Okoh also praised Tinubu’s engagement with religious bodies, saying it had strengthened trust between the government and the Church.
“Your commitment has closed the gap between the government and the Church. This has never happened before,” he said.
The CAN President appealed for sustained engagement through CAN’s structures at the 774 local government areas and requested the release of funds to the Christian Pilgrims’ Board.
Other members of the delegation included Vice President of CAN, Rev. Dr Stephen Panya Baba; President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Francis Wale Oke; and representatives of the Catholic, Methodist and African Instituted Churches.
(NAN)
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Saturday distributed 1,000 bags of 25kg rice to the Christian community in Bauchi State as part of activities marking the 2025 Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Speaking at the flag-off in Bauchi, the Bauchi State Coordinator of the Christian Northern Nigerian Political Forum (CNNPF), Ayuba Dogara, commended the First Lady for the gesture, describing it as timely and impactful in supporting Christian faithful during the festive season.
Ayuba noted that the First Lady extended similar support to other Northern states, targeting the less privileged, widows, youths, and leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to him, the 1,000 bags of rice allocated to Bauchi State would be distributed across the 20 local government areas of the state through recognised groups and coordinators to ensure that the items reached the intended beneficiaries.
“We are here to flag off the distribution of food items donated to Bauchi State by Her Excellency, the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu,” he said.
Ayuba also praised President Bola Tinubu for his efforts aimed at stabilising the country, adding that the relative peace being enjoyed in Nigeria was a result of purposeful leadership.
He urged local government coordinators to ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution process, stressing that the success of the gesture depended on the items reaching the actual beneficiaries.
“I urge beneficiaries to receive these items with gratitude and to pray for the First Lady and the administration of her husband,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs Bege Matandu expressed appreciation to the First Lady, saying the donation would help ease the economic hardship faced by many families during the Christmas period.
Also speaking, the APC Chairman of Bogoro Local Government Area, Mr Istifanus Mmanasi, described the gesture as a sign of inclusive governance.
He said the donation had renewed hope among Christians and APC members in the area, adding that it demonstrated the government’s sensitivity to the needs of ordinary citizens.
Mmanasi further appreciated the collaboration between President Tinubu and the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, noting that such synergy would continue to bring development to the constituency and the state.
He encouraged APC members and supporters to remain united and committed to the party’s vision as the country moves towards 2027, expressing confidence that continuity and stability would keep Nigeria on the right path.
Nigeria Police Force (NPF)
The Adamawa State Police Command has arrested two suspected kidnappers accused of terrorising residents of Sarau Belel community in Maiha Local Government Area of the state.
The arrest followed a complaint received on December 26, 2025, from Mr. Emmanuel Daniel of Sagal Village, Sarau Belel.
According to the police, Daniel reported that he was being threatened with abduction by two men who allegedly claimed responsibility for the kidnapping of his younger brother, Joshua Daniel, in November 2024.
“Daniel reported that he was being threatened with abduction by two men who allegedly claimed responsibility for the kidnapping of his younger brother, Joshua Daniel, in November 2024,” the statement read.
Police said the Commissioner of Police in Adamawa State, Mr. Dankombo Morris, ordered an immediate response upon receiving the report.
Operatives, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Sarau Belel, subsequently carried out a coordinated operation which led to the arrest of the suspects.
The suspects were identified as Sunday Yakubu, 36, and Daniel Yakubu, 38, both residents of Konjoli Village in Maiha Local Government Area.
Police sources disclosed that during interrogation, the suspects confessed to the allegations and are currently assisting investigators with useful information to aid further investigations.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police has directed the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit to take over the case to ensure a thorough investigation and diligent prosecution of the suspects in accordance with the law.
The Adamawa State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state and urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
NIGERIA NEWS
US airstrike in Sokoto: I’m not afraid of Trump, attack didn’t harm any bandit – Asari Dokubo
Former Niger Delta militant leader Asari Dokubo has said that the United States airstrikes in Sokoto State did not kill any bandits.
Asari said the airstrikes achieved nothing because the missiles landed on empty land and caused no real damage.
In a video shared on X, Asari re-emphasized that he is not afraid of US President Donald Trump.
Asari also said the US only used drones in Sokoto and described the whole operation as fake.
He charged the Nigerian government to show proof that the airstrikes killed at least one terrorist.
The former freedom fighter argued that the US cannot send its soldiers into Nigeria because the West African country is an independent nation.
He said: “The US army strike in Sokoto did not harm any bandits. They only dropped bombs in an open field, endangering the lives of innocent people. Do you think I’m afraid of President Donald Trump?”
Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, met with the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, on Friday in a move the Nigerian Army described as aimed at strengthening ties with community leadership to promote national stability.
The visit, according to the army, was meant to reaffirm the resolve of the Nigerian Army to work closely with community leaders to promote stability and coexistence across the country.
In a post on 𝕏, the Nigerian Army said the engagement underscores its renewed commitment to strengthening civil–military relations and fostering collaboration with traditional institutions in support of national unity, peace, and security.
The meeting took place less than 24 hours after the United States launched air strikes on ISIS‑linked enclaves in Sokoto State.
The US Africa Command (AFRICOM) said the aerial bombardment was carried out “at the request of Nigerian authorities.”
Shortly after, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed that the Nigerian military collaborated with the US government in executing the strikes. Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, explained that the operations were deliberately calibrated to neutralise the targeted elements while minimising collateral damage.
However, the action was not without controversy. Nigerian broadcaster and former Director‑General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Ladan Salihu, claimed the strikes missed their intended target and lacked precision.
He asserted that the bombs landed in Jabo village, Tambuwal LGA of Sokoto, where residents reported no fatalities.
The Ministry of Information later clarified that the intended target was Buani Forest in Tangaza LGA of Sokoto, known to harbour extremist elements.
The ministry also noted that debris from the strikes fell in Jabo and Offa in Kwara State during the operation.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Friday, December 26, 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, at his palace in Sokoto State.
The visit underscored the Nigerian Army’s renewed commitment to strengthening civil–military relations and deepening collaboration with traditional institutions to enhance national unity, peace and security.
During the meeting, Lieutenant General Shaibu reiterated the resolve of the Nigerian Army to partner with traditional rulers and community leaders in promoting stability, peaceful coexistence and security across the country.
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He noted that traditional institutions remain critical stakeholders in intelligence gathering, conflict resolution and community engagement efforts aimed at addressing security challenges.
In his response, the Sultan of Sokoto commended the Nigerian Army for its sacrifices and steadfast efforts in protecting lives and property nationwide.
He prayed for the continued success of the Army in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities and assured the COAS of the support of traditional institutions in fostering peace and national cohesion.
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No fewer than two soldiers and dozens of civilians were reported feared dead following a recent attack in Garaha District of Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State on Christmas day.
Reports from Garaha District, the home town of former Secretary of the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr Boss Mustapha indicated that the insurgents numbering in hundreds invaded the town and overpowered the security in place.
Eye witness who spoke with Journalists on condition of anonymity in Hong, said the bandits first invaded Mayo Ladde, under Garaha which borders Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State near Sambisa Forest.
He said troops of the 144 Battalion, the Police and the Civilian JTF were taken unawares as Boko Haram invaded the Garaha Market before killing two soldiers whose bodies were later taken to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Hong.
However, number of civilian casualties that lost their lives could be ascertained but eyewitnesses said the situation was gravely deplorable as the entire community are enveloped with uncertainty.
Meanwhile, the Adamawa State Police Spokesperson, ASP Yahaya Ngurore who confirmed the attack with our Correspondent Saturday said attack took place Friday night and that security operative are on ground for assessments, adding that the situation has been brought under control.
ASP Ngurore said the “anti terror unit based in Garaha District received several reports of distress calls by 2am yesterday night and the unit in collaboration with the 144 Battalion of the Nigerian Army including JTF responded swiftly to the cries of the people of Garaha but during the attack several lives were lost including that of two soldiers”.
Management of the FMC Hong confirmed to journalist who visited, that some soldiers were taken to the hospital including those injured and those who could not survive the attack and were deprived from visiting Garaha due to the dangerous situation there.
However, efforts to reach the Chairman Hong Local Government Area proved abortive while attempts to also reach the Army Public Relations officer of the 23 Brigade for a statement on the development also proved abortive as calls put to him were rejected.
New Telegraph reports that Garaha which borders Sambisa Forest have been unfortunately a target of the insurgents for several years due to its proximity.
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The Chairperson of the African Union Commission has rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and reaffirmed the African Union’s unwavering commitment to the unity and sovereignty of Somalia.
The African Union administrative arm said it has taken note, with deep concern, of recent developments relating to Somaliland.
“In this regard, the Chairperson of the Commission unequivocally reaffirms the longstanding and consistent position of the African Union, grounded in the principles enshrined in the Constitutive Act of the African Union, in particular the respect for the intangibility of borders inherited at independence, as affirmed by the 1964 decision of the Organisation of African Unity.”
Israel on Friday became the first country to formally recognise Somaliland, an autonomous region that broke away from Somalia decades ago, in a reciprocal agreement that expands recognition of the Jewish state in the Muslim world.
Somaliland, in northwestern Somalia, has long been in conflict with the central government, declaring independence in 1991 as Somalia descended into civil war and chaos. Since then, Somaliland has governed most of the territory it claims, largely in peace and stability, but it has not received international recognition.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has pushed for international recognition for decades, with President Abdirahman Abdullahi making it a top priority since taking office last year.
In response to the agreement, Somalia’s government on Friday criticised what it called an “unlawful step” by Israel and said Somaliland was “an integral, inseparable, and inalienable part” of Somalia.
The moves by Israel and Somaliland also drew swift condemnation from some of their neighbours.
Egypt said in a statement that its foreign minister had spoken by phone with his counterparts in Somalia, Turkey and Djibouti and that “they underscored their complete rejection of any unilateral measures that could undermine Somali sovereignty or erode the foundations of stability in the country.”
Several other countries condemned Israel’s decision. The African Union (AU) rejected the move and warned that it risked “setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent.”
Somaliland “remains an integral part” of Somalia, an AU member, said the pan-African body’s head, Mahamoud Youssouf.
Mahmoud Youssouf, the chairman of the African Union Commission, the bloc’s administrative arm, said in a statement that he firmly rejected any initiative “aimed at recognising Somaliland as an independent entity.”
“Any attempt to undermine the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Somalia runs counter to the fundamental principles of the African Union and risks setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent.”
He reaffirmed the position of the union, which represents 55 member states, that Somaliland “remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia.”
Many other nations are struggling to contain their own secessionist movements, and they are wary that recognition of one breakaway region could start a cascade of independence claims.
Many majority-Muslim nations in the Middle East and beyond do not recognise Israel, though Turkey and Egypt are notable exceptions.
In 2020, the Abraham Accords brokered by the first Trump administration established formal relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco. Israel has been eager to add others to that list, according to the New York Times.
READ ALSO: ANALYSIS: African Union must intervene in crisis between Algeria, Mali, others
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the agreement with Somaliland “is in the spirit of the Abraham Accords.” He added: “The State of Israel plans to immediately expand its relations with the Republic of Somaliland through extensive cooperation in the fields of agriculture, health, technology, and economy.”
Mr Netanyahu had invited Mr Abdullahi to visit the Israeli leader’s office.
The AFP reported that United States President Donald Trump said they do not plan to recognise Somaliland. “Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?” Mr Trump said.
Hailing Israel’s decision as a “historic moment”, Mr Abdullahi said in a post on X that it marked the beginning of a “strategic partnership.”
By Abbanobi -Eku Onyeka
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has presented 10 outboard engine fishing boats to women and cooperative groups in Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, as part of his constituency project. The beneficiaries are from riverine communities where fishing is the main economic activity.
Akpabio’s wife, Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, thanked him for remembering the women, saying he’s the Senate President for all Akwa Ibom, regardless of senatorial district. Akpabio commended the women for their support, saying he’s empowering them in their fishing business.
“I can never forget your love, prayers, and support,” he said, urging them to support President Bola Tinubu and Governor Umo Eno. “Today, I’m making you also fishers of men – drag votes for APC in your senatorial district.”
Each boat comes with fishing nets, a refrigerator, and fuel tanks. Beneficiaries expressed appreciation, promising continued support for Akpabio and APC.
NIGERIA NEWS
US Strike on ISIS in Sokoto: Nigerian Journalist Calls for Proof of Terrorists Eliminated
- A young Nigerian journalist has reacted to the multiple attacks on the bases of ISIS terrorists in a state in northern Nigeria
- His statement comes after the confirmation of the attack by the president of America, Donald Trump, about the strikes
- The journalist, however, raised doubts and made some statements about the things he observed in regards to the strike
A Nigerian journalist has expressed doubts over the targeted killing of ISIS terrorists by the US military following an order from President Trump.
The journalist’s statement comes after a reported attack on ISIS bases in Sokoto. While Trump confirmed giving the order, the journalist questioned the outcome of the strike.
Journalist shares observations after US hits ISIS base. Photo Source: New York Times, Twitter/BrantPhilip_/ Facebook/Victor Chukwuedo Onwuemene
Source: Facebook
Nigerian journalist reacts to US attack
In a post he shared, he mentioned that he is yet to get the exact number of terrorists killed during the US strike on the ISIS base.
Victor Chukwuedo Onwuemene, on his Facebook page, said the attack might have yielded no results if there is no proof of any deaths among the terrorists.
Read also
US soldier taunts Sokoto terrorists hours after deadly strike: “Eyes are on you”
Young Nigerian journalist questions results of US attack. Photo Source: Facebook/Victor Chukwuedo Onwuemene
Source: Facebook
His statement:
“I’m yet to get the full number of ISIS Terrorists that were eliminated from the USA’s strike. If there are no scores then I must say it was a fruitless attempt.”
He continued that if there was truly a strike, there should be evidence showing that certain targets were eliminated.
“If there’s a strike, let it come with force and results please, thanks.”
Reactions as journalist demands proof
Uloho shared:
“Even if there are casualties, I’ve this deep feelings that the Nigerian Government would definitely hide it from the public.”
Chidi stated:
“I am asking why sokoto??? Why not plateau abi jos???”
Jakes added:
“As someone who has known core Northerners for long, if there was no casualty, you’d have seen jubilation posts from them. But since they’re condemning the strike, just know it was effective.”
Florian wrote:
“It was just a warning, so that when e start them no go say usa don start lol.”
Read also
ISIS terrorists: Muslim man shares why Trump’s bombing isn’t an attack on Islam, sparks debate
Innocent shared:
“I doubt that the Nigerian government would want to disclose that information. They feel defeated than victorious.”
Emmanuel noted:
“So you are among those that are tearing?”
Uchenna said:
“It’s not futile attack.this is just to bring awareness that the US is at their door step.”
Read the post below
In a similar story, Legit.ng reported that a young Nigerian man drew attention online after pointing out what President Bola Tinubu did hours before a deadly strike on ISIS terrorists in northern Nigeria.
Soldier confirms many missiles used on ISIS
Meanwhile, Legit.ng recently reported that a Nigerian man serving in the US military grabbed attention on social media after speaking about the recent attack on ISIS terrorists in Sokoto, Nigeria.
The US soldier revealed the number of times the terrorists were struck by military equipment following orders from US President Donald Trump.
Source: Legit.ng
A Nigerian lawyer has sparked massive reactions online after sharing reasons he believes U.S. President Donald Trump chose Sokoto State as the first target for reported airstrikes against ISIS terrorists in Nigeria.
His post gained widespread attention after GistReel earlier reported that the alleged strike was carried out against terrorists in northern Nigeria.
Lawyer Says Strike Was Strategic, Not Random
The lawyer, identified on Facebook as Law Parlour, claimed the operation was a calculated move rather than a sudden attack.
According to him, the U.S. military reportedly confirmed that the operation was done in collaboration with the Nigerian government, involving intelligence support and security coordination.
Sokoto’s Location Played a Big Role
The lawyer explained that Sokoto’s geographical position made it a key focus point.
He stated that the state is close to major international routes linked with extremist networks, especially those associated with Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP).
Because of its proximity to Niger and other Sahel regions, Sokoto allegedly serves as a transit base for terrorist activities.
He wrote; “On Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, the United States military carried out airstrikes targeting Islamic State (ISIS) militants in Northwest Nigeria, specifically Sokoto State, a region that sits near Nigeria’s border with Niger and has seen growing extremist activity. The operation was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, who described the strikes as “powerful and deadly.”
“According to U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), the strikes killed “multiple ISIS terrorists” and were conducted at the request and with the cooperation of the Nigerian government. Nigerian officials confirmed the operation was part of ongoing security cooperation, involving intelligence sharing and strategic planning.
“Some may ask, why sokoto? This Is the reason;
“Sokoto state sits near international corridors used by extremist networks linked to the Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP).
“Its proximity to Niger and other parts of the Sahel makes it a transit and operational hub for militants spreading outward from the Lake Chad and Sahel regions.
“The strike signals that extremist threats in Nigeria are not confined to the northeast they can expand into northwest regions unless checked early.
“This operation didn’t come out of nowhere, it followed weeks of public warnings by President Trump. In late October and November 2025, Trump posted on his social media platform that the United States was watching Nigeria’s security situation closely, especially after reports of escalating violence against civilians.
“Trump claimed that Christian communities in Nigeria were being “viciously killed … at levels not seen for many years, and even centuries.” He warned that if killings continued, U.S. action would follow, even threatening to cut aid or intervene militarily.
“Finally the United States have fulfilled its promises, it’s beautiful.”
See below;
Screenshot
The Nigerian Tax Act and the Nigerian Tax Administration Act will take effect from January 1, 2026, despite concerns raised by the House of Representatives over alleged alterations to the gazetted versions of the laws.
Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, disclosed this while briefing journalists after a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday.
Oyedele said the government remains committed to the implementation timeline, stressing that the reforms are aimed at easing the tax burden on Nigerians and stimulating economic growth.
The statement follows recent deliberations by the House of Representatives Committee on allegations that some provisions of the tax reform laws differed from what lawmakers originally passed.
What Oyedele is saying
Oyedele explained that four tax reform laws have been enacted, with two already in force.
According to him, the Nigerian Revenue Service Establishment Act and the Joint Revenue Service Establishment Act commenced on June 26, 2025.
He added that the remaining two laws—the Nigerian Tax Act and the Nigerian Tax Administration Act—are scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026.
Oyedele welcomed the House Committee’s engagement on the alleged alterations and said the Federal Government is willing to work with the National Assembly if any remedial action is required.
However, he emphasized that the commencement of the two remaining laws will proceed as planned.
“The plan to commence the new laws on January 1, 2026, will go ahead as scheduled because these reforms are designed to provide relief to the Nigerian people,” he said.
Tax relief for workers and businesses
According to Oyedele, the reforms will deliver significant tax relief across the economy.
- He said about 98% of Nigerian workers will either pay no PAYE tax or pay lower taxes under the new framework.
- He also noted that approximately 97% of small businesses will be exempt from corporate income tax, VAT, and withholding tax, while large companies will benefit from reduced tax liabilities.
- The reforms, he said, are intended to promote economic growth, inclusivity, and shared prosperity.
Oyedele said the tax reform bills spent nine months at the National Assembly between October 2024 and June 2025, allowing preparations to begin early.
Since the laws were signed, he said the government has spent the last six months on capacity building, system upgrades, and stakeholder sensitisation.
He explained that the early commencement of two of the laws was deliberate, enabling new institutions to begin operations and prepare ahead of full rollout in 2026.
According to him, tax reform is an ongoing process that improves over time.
Revenue growth through expansion, not higher rates
Oyedele stressed that the reforms are not designed to raise immediate revenue by increasing tax rates.
Instead, he said the focus is on growing revenue through economic expansion, widening the tax base, and improving compliance.
He added that the reforms have removed wasteful and distortionary tax incentives, which should improve fairness and efficiency in the tax system.
Improved tax awareness and a stronger tax culture, he said, are expected to further enhance compliance.
Backstory
Earlier this month, a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abdulsammad Dasuki (PDP, Sokoto), had raised concerns over alleged discrepancies between the newly gazetted tax reform laws and the versions passed by the National Assembly.
- According to him, his review of the gazetted copies of the tax laws revealed material differences from what was debated, harmonised, and approved by the House of Representatives and the Senate.
- This allegation has led to calls for the suspension of the implementation of the tax laws.
- On Friday, the House of Reps Spokesman, Akin Rotimi stated that the Green Chamber has inaugurated a committee to “establish the sequence of events and identify any factors that may have contributed to the circumstances surrounding the legislative and administrative handling of the Acts.”
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Former Niger Delta militant leader Asari Dokubo has dismissed reports that a recent United States military strike in Sokoto State neutralised bandits or terrorists, describing the operation as ineffective.
It would be recalled that the United States president Donald Trump had authorized the bombing of ISIS terrorists in Sokoto, Nigeria.
Asari Dokubo.
Ansari Dokubo reacts to the Airstrike
Reacting to the reports, Dokubo claimed the strike did not hit any armed groups, alleging that explosives were dropped in an open area and instead exposed civilians to danger.
He further asserted that drones, rather than decisive air power, were deployed to the state.
Asari Dokubo throws challenge
Dokubo challenged authorities and the public to provide evidence that any terrorists were killed during the operation, insisting that the official narrative surrounding the strike was misleading.
He said in part …
“The U.S. army str!ke in Sokoto did not harm any båndits. They only dropped b0mbs in an open field, endangering the lives of innocent people. What they actually sent to Sokoto State were drones. This is very shameful, and I don’t believe this lie at all. I challenge anyone in Nigeria to show me even one terrørist they k!ll£d…”
Watch video below …
“The U.S. army str!ke in Sokoto did not harm any båndits. They only dropped b0mbs in an open field, endangering the lives of innocent people. What they actually sent to Sokoto State were drones. This is very shameful, and I don’t believe this lie at all. I challenge anyone in… pic.twitter.com/fVZx94Vjy3
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) December 27, 2025
Ambassador-designate, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, has argued that no nation in the world enjoys absolute sovereignty, citing examples of international cooperation in times of crisis.
In a statement at the weekend, Ibrahim, who has a doctorate in Modern War Studies, referenced the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States, noting that America relied on military and strategic assistance from several allied nations to combat the insecurity caused by the attacks.
According to him, countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, Italy, Poland, Russia and New Zealand contributed troops, aircraft, naval assets and other military support under Operation Enduring Freedom to help the United States combat terrorism.
Drawing parallels to Nigeria’s current security challenges, Ibrahim urged Nigerians to allow President Bola Tinubu to pursue collaborative and cooperative strategies to tackle insecurity. He described such cooperation as a liberal democratic way of setting new order for peace in a geocentric system, emphasizing that it does not amount to a compromise of national sovereignty.
Dr. Ibrahim further argued that the concept of absolute sovereignty was unrealistic, adding that if absolute sovereignty were possible, then countries like the United States would be able to completely control emails or even prevent COVID-19 from entering their borders.