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Tag: Ahmed Tinubu

  • Two years after: Labour tears Tinubu’s scorecard into shreds, APC kicks

    Two years after: Labour tears Tinubu’s scorecard into shreds, APC kicks

    President Bola Tinubu’s administration, midterm , organised labour has delivered a scathing critique of his economic policies, accusing the government of worsening poverty and hardship across Nigeria.

    In a statement marking the midterm, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, said Tinubu’s reforms—particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and exchange rate unification—have pushed over 150 million Nigerians into multidimensional poverty. He dismissed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” as recycled neoliberal failures, claiming they enriched a few while deepening the suffering of the majority.

    “Fuel prices have tripled, inflation is out of control, and wages have been eroded,” Ajaero said. “This is not reform—it’s punishment.”

    Tinubu, in a national broadcast, defended his policies, noting that external reserves rose from $4bn in 2023 to $23bn in 2024. He assured Nigerians that the economic pain was temporary and necessary for long-term stability.

    The NLC and TUC, however, insist the reforms lack visible benefits. They criticized the government’s palliatives as inadequate and highlighted worsening insecurity, joblessness, and poor infrastructure.

    Labour leaders from several states—including Lagos, Benue, Kaduna, and Bayelsa—echoed similar sentiments, rejecting the President’s claim that “the worst days are over.”

    In response, the All Progressives Congress (APC) accused the NLC of politicizing national issues. APC National Vice Chairman (South-East), Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, described the labour critique as “sponsored and shallow,” adding that Tinubu has shown transparency and courage in implementing difficult but necessary reforms.

    Despite deepening criticism, the Presidency maintains that its policies will pay off in the long run.

  • INSECURITY! Tinubu sends Shettima to Plateau amid incessant killings

    INSECURITY! Tinubu sends Shettima to Plateau amid incessant killings

    President Bola Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to embark on an urgent visit to Plateau State today, Monday, April 21, 2025, as part of the federal government’s response to the growing insecurity in the region.

    This move comes in the wake of deadly attacks in the Bokkos and Bassa communities of Plateau State, which, along with similar incidents in Benue State, have claimed the lives of over 200 people in recent weeks, sparking nationwide outrage and calls for swift government intervention.

    The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, confirmed the Vice President’s visit during his own assessment tour of the affected areas over the weekend. He disclosed that President Tinubu personally instructed Shettima to engage directly with local leaders, community stakeholders, and security agencies to seek lasting solutions to the crisis.

    “The President is deeply concerned and wants immediate action taken. The Vice President is going to hear directly from the people and reinforce our commitment to peace and justice,” Yilwatda said.

    Shettima is expected to meet with traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and other stakeholders, as well as chair a strategic meeting with security operatives to improve coordination and strengthen peacebuilding efforts in the troubled areas.

    Meanwhile, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, who visited the communities alongside top military officers, assured residents that the government will bring the perpetrators to justice and provide adequate support for victims, especially widows and displaced families.

    In a separate reaction, retired Defence Minister Lt. Gen. Theophilus Danjuma renewed his call for citizens to defend themselves, saying the government alone can no longer guarantee adequate protection. He described the continued killings as a failure of the state to fulfill its primary duty of securing lives and property.

    The Plateau Youth Council has also condemned the violence, labeling the attacks as acts of genocide rather than mere communal clashes. The council accused Fulani militias of orchestrating the attacks and criticized the federal government’s response as slow and insufficient.

    They demanded urgent reinforcement of local security outfits like Operation Rainbow to better protect vulnerable communities.

    The Vice President’s visit is seen as a critical step in restoring confidence among affected communities and charting a more effective path toward lasting peace in the region.

  • BREAKING! TInubu fires NYSC DG, announces fresh appointment

    BREAKING! TInubu fires NYSC DG, announces fresh appointment

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Brigadier General Kunle Nafiu as the new Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

    Bri. Gen. Nafiu, until his appointment, was the Chief of Staff to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, having also served in the same capacity with the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Raised Abiodun Lagbaja.

    A Member of 47 Regular Course, Nafiu is an Artillery Officer who graduated from the Armed Forces Command and Staff College and the US Army War College.

    Before he was appointed Chief of Staff to the COAS, he was a Directing Staff at the Army War College, Nigeria.

    The new NYSC DG hails from Ileogbo, Aiyedire Local Government Area of Osun State.

    Nafiu, whose appointment is immediately effective, replaces Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed.

  • One year after: Tinubu leading from the front, says Akpabio

    One year after: Tinubu leading from the front, says Akpabio

    President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the successful completion of his first year in office commending him for leading from the front by taking tough decisions to rejig the nation.

    Akpabio in a statement on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh in commemoration of the President Tinubu’s first year anniversary said the policy direction of the APC led government under the guidance of President Tinubu were aimed at repositioning the country and not to punish the people.

    “On behalf of my family and the good people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, the Senate and indeed the 10th National Assembly, I wish to heartily rejoice with the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the occasion of his first year in office.

    “Mr. President, I must commend you for being a courageous and bold leader, who leads from the front and does not shy away from taking responsibility. In the last one year, you have taken very tough decisions, some of which are painful but necessary and would soon translate into long term benefits for the citizenry. Your actions and policies have clearly shown that you were prepared for leadership and have the wherewithal to transform the nation into an enclave for good governance and enduring development”.

    According to the Senate President, Tinubu has in the last one year exuded ingenuity and high level of intelligence in solving the multifarious challenges militating against the nation singling out the reforms in the economic and security sector as well as the nation’s foreign policy thrust.

    “I acknowledged the milestone achieved in the fight against insecurity, the removal of petroleum subsidy and the economic reforms, particularly at the Central Bank of Nigeria and other key agencies, the commitment to reposition the forex market, which are gradually pointing towards economic recovery and growth.

    “In the educational sector, the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund) and other interventions in schools at all levels stand this administration out. The prioritization of staff welfare, driving towards a truly living wage and attainment of industrial harmony, an elaborate social welfare programme and respect for the citizenry by listening to their cries in implementing some of the policies have endeared Mr. President to the hearts of millions of Nigerians.

    “The mutual understanding and cooperation that has existed between the Executive and the Legislature is also a signal that you are prepared to go places. The National Assembly in national interest is willing to continue to collaborate with the Executive under your tutelage to advance the cause of our democracy and give Nigerians value for their votes. No doubt, times are hard but it is for good as the president has shown commitment and is making deliberate efforts to make life enjoyable for every Nigerian.

    “As you step into the second year of your tenure, I pray for continued wisdom and excellent health for you; better commitment from your team and the support and understanding of Nigerians to enable you lead the country back to its enviable place in the comity of nations.

    “On our part, the National Assembly will continue to support programmes and policies of your job administration that will bring succour to the populace and make life better for the citizenry,” he said.

  • Extended Continental Shelf: Nigeria gains extra territory as Tinubu receives Cttee report

    Extended Continental Shelf: Nigeria gains extra territory as Tinubu receives Cttee report

    President Bola Tinubu has received the report of the High Powered Presidential Committee (HPPC) on Nigeria’s Extended Continental Shelf Project with a commendation to the team of experts who worked hard over the years to advance the project, which aims to extend Nigeria’s maritime boundaries in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), 1982.

    The President expressed his appreciation on Tuesday in Abuja after listening to technical presentations by Professor Larry Awosika, a marine scientist and member of the Committee, and Surveyor Aliyu Omar, Secretary of the HPPC.

    The experts have been involved in the project since Nigeria’s initial submission to extend its continental shelf to the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS) in 2009.

    They informed the President that the UN has approved Nigeria’s submission, granting sovereignty over additional square kilometres of maritime territory.

    ”When the HPPC briefed former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2022 on the status of the project, the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS) was still considering Nigeria’s submission and having technical interactions with the HPPC.

    ”These interactions and consideration have now culminated in the approval for Nigeria to extend its continental shelf beyond 200M (200 nautical miles).

    ”As it stands now, the area approved for Nigeria is about 16,300 square kilometres, which is about five times the size of Lagos State,’’ Surveyor Omar told the President.

    He added that the official notification of the decision was conveyed to Nigeria by the UN Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS) in August 2023, shortly after President Tinubu assumed office.

    Omar outlined the available options for Nigeria following the approval:

    ”The first option is to take the area gained and finalize the registration with the UN Secretary-General and close everything, meaning that we are satisfied with what we got. This will take at least one year.

    ”The second option is to take what we have right now, acquire more data, do a support write-up, and make a revised submission as recommended by CLCS for further consideration. This will take another four years.

    ”Either way (options), Nigeria will keep what has been approved.’’

    In his presentation, Professor Awosika explained that the approval came after years of meticulous scientific research on geophysics, geology, geography, and diplomatic efforts, which solidified Nigeria’s legal rights over a vast expanse of seabed and subsoil beyond its traditional territorial waters.

    Awosika highlighted the economic potential of the newly acquired territory, which includes hydrocarbons, gas, solid minerals, and a wide variety of sedentary species.

    He, however, cautioned against total disclosure of sensitive data acquired during surveys, noting that this will jeopardize confidentiality as Nigeria is expected to monetize the information to recover project expenses.

    Responding, the President thanked the experts for their diligence, emphasizing the significance of the achievement for Nigeria’s economic and strategic interests.

    ‘‘This is big congratulations for Nigeria,’’ he said while recounting how former President Buhari had briefed him on the importance of the project.

    ”At COP28 in Dubai, I also exchanged views with President Lula of Brazil on the need for collaboration within our economic and maritime boundaries.

    ”Today, it is a great honour for me to receive this report. I have listened attentively to this very specialized report, and I know it took a whole lot of effort to get to this stage.

    ”I commend the team, and we must take advantage of this and invite you again to have a repeat of this knowledge exploration on geography, hydrography, and the marine life.

    ”Nigeria is grateful for the efforts that you put into gaining additional territory for the country without going to war. Some nations went to war, lost people and economic opportunities.

    ”We lost nothing but have gained great benefits for Nigeria. We will pursue the best option for the country,” the President said.

    Ambassador Hassan Tukur, Chairman of the HPPC; Chief of Staff to the President, Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila, and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, also attended the meeting.

  • You can’t tax unemployed Nigerians living below poverty line, severe economic hardship — Peter Obi hammers FG

    You can’t tax unemployed Nigerians living below poverty line, severe economic hardship — Peter Obi hammers FG

    Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023 general election has hammered the Federal government over the proposed Cybersecurity Levy on bank transactions, NewsWeek Nigeria reports.

    Reacting, Obi in a statement issued on his verified X account, faulted the Federal government decision, stressing that, the introduction of Cybersecurity Levy on Nigerians who are already suffering severe economic distress is further proof that the government is more interested in milking a dying economy.

    Peter Obi wrote:

    “The introduction of yet another tax, in the form of Cybersecurity Levy, on Nigerians who are already suffering severe economic distress is further proof that the government is more interested in milking a dying economy instead of nurturing it to recovery and growth.”

    CBN bans Moniepoint, Opay, Kuda, others from doing this

    “This does not only amount to multiple taxation on banking transactions, which are already subject to various other taxes including stamp duties but negates the Government’s avowed commitment to reduce the number of taxes and streamline the tax system.”

    “The imposition of a Cybersecurity Levy on bank transactions is particularly sad given that the tax is on the trading capital of businesses and not on their profit hence will further erode whatever is left of their remaining capital, after the impact of the Naira devaluation and high inflation rate.

    It is inconceivable to expect the suffering citizens of Nigeria to separately fund all activities of the government. Policies such as this not only impoverish the citizens but make the country’s economic environment less competitive.”

    “At a time when the government should be reducing taxes to curb inflation, the government is instead introducing new taxes.

    And when did the office of the NSA become a revenue collecting centre?” “And why should that purely national security office receive returns on a specific tax as stated in the new cybersecurity law? -PO” The CBN in a circular issued on Monday ordered banks operating in the country to start charging a cybersecurity levy on transactions in two weeks from the date of the issuance of the circular.

    The apex bank referenced earlier circular and letter to all banks dated June 25, 2018 (Ref: BPS/DIR/GEN/CIR/05/008) and October 5, 2018 (Ref: BSD/DIR/GEN/LAB/11/023), respectively, on compliance with the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 and the recent call by the National Security Adviser office for the full enforcement of Nigeria’s amended cybercrime law.

  • Northern Govs hail Tinubu’s landmarks in combating insecurity

    Northern Govs hail Tinubu’s landmarks in combating insecurity

    … regret unprecedented security challenges in Niger, Katsina, Zamfara, Plateau and Kaduna states

     

    The Northern States Governors’ Forum has hailed President Bola Tinubu over his landmarks in effectively combating insecurity in the northern axis of Nigeria.

    TheNewsGuru.com, TNG reports this was contained in a communique issued at the end of the Forum’s meeting on Tuesday held in Kaduna.

    The communique signed by the chairman of the Forum, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya had 12 point highlights where the participants stated:

    “The Federal Government under the dynamic, focused and courageous leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which has demonstrated total commitment to winning the war against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality.

    “The Forum expressed deepest sympathy and collective support to the Governments and people of Kaduna, Katsina, Niger, Plateau and Zamfara States over the unprecedented security challenges currently affecting the States and resolved to stand in solidarity with them during these difficult times.

    “The Human Capital Development is critical to the progress and prosperity of the region and expressed concern that the region currently bears the burden of having the highest number of out of School Children in the World. The Forum committed itself to invest massively in education and skill development, health care and social services in order to address the menace.

    ” The Forum received report of a Committee to review the Report of the Technical Committee on the New Nigeria Development Company. The Forum resolved that members should study the report for consideration at the next meeting of the Forum.

    “The expected role of New Nigeria Development Company (NNDC) on the revitalization of the economy of the Northern States. The Forum accordingly resolved to invest in critical infrastructure that are capable of unlocking the huge industrial and economic potentials of the North.

    “The Forum noted that climate change, unsustainable agricultural practices and population growth posed significant challenges to the region. The Forum resolved to adopt holistic approach that promote environmental conservation, sustainable agriculture and responsible resource management to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of the people and preserve the national heritage of generations yet unborn.

    ” The Forum received a presentation from Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) and World Bank Team. The Forum noted achievements in areas of system strengthening, project management, infrastructure and structure emplaced and challenges as regards project implementation and expected areas of support. The Forum assured the AGILE and World Bank Teams of their sustain support and requested them to FastTrack the process of upscaling the programme.

    ” The Forum received on Courtesy Call from the Executive Committee and Board of Trustees of Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF). The Forum noted the resolve of the Board of Trustees to harmonise activities of various interest groups as well as voices, speaking and acting on behalf of the region. The Forum further resolved to support and encourages the Board of Trustees towards the realisation of the objectives of the founding fathers of the Arewa Consultative Forum.

    “The Forum also received a report from the Coalition of Northern Group on the security in Northern Nigeria. The Forum commended the Group for its commitment to the security of the Northern region and pledged to work together with the Group.
    11. The Forum commended its own leadership for engaging with the National Security Adviser, Service Chiefs, Coalition of Northern Civil Society groups and other relevant stakeholders in charting a way forward for sustainable peace and stability in the North.

    “The Forum commended the Chairman of the Forum for his inspirational leadership and commitment towards advancing the interest of the North. The Forum also commended the host Governor for his sustained effort in hosting the meetings of the Forum.

  • Tinubu to declare House retreat open Tuesday

    Tinubu to declare House retreat open Tuesday

    …as Reps engage NNPC, CBN, FIRS, others on PIA, tax reforms

    The House of Representatives will on Tuesday commence a two-day retreat for members on major economic laws, policies, and programmes of the Federal Government, especially under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The retreat has been themed: ‘Economic Transformation & Development: Towards Effective Implementation of the Petroleum Industry Reform Act (2021) and Tax Reforms / Modernisation. The sub-theme is ‘Navigating Change: Legislative Strategies for Economic Transformation.’

    President Tinubu is expected to declare the retreat open at the Abuja Continental Hotel (formerly Abuja Sheraton Hotel and Towers), while the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, CON, will serve as the host the event.

    With the Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, as the chief host, President of the Senate, Sen. Godwill Obot Akpabio, CON; Deputy President of the Senate, Sen. Barau Jibrin; and Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, would speak at the event.

    Apart from Wike, those expected to deliver goodwill messages at the opening ceremony are the Group Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kolo Kyari, OFR; Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, FCA; Clerk to the House of Representatives, Dr Yahaya Danzaria, Esq.; and Resident Representative of Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), Marija Peran.

    The panellists and discussants will include Chairman, Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele; Minister of Budget and National Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, CON; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Oil & Gas, Hon. Heineken Lokpobiri; Governor of the Central Bank (CBN), Dr. Olayemi Cardoso; Chairman, Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN.

    The retreat was designed to achieve the following objectives: “Understand the Petroleum Industry Act: Delve into the contents, purposes, and expected outcomes of the PIA, emphasising its significance in transforming the oil and gas sector.

    “Legislative Oversight and Implementation: Explore the legislative role in overseeing the implementation of the Act, ensuring its provisions are actualised effectively and align with national interests.

    “Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration: Identify opportunities for collaboration between the parliament, the executive, industry stakeholders, and communities to foster a conducive environment for the Act’s successful implementation.

    “Policy and Regulatory Framework: Discuss the development of subsidiary legislation and regulatory frameworks essential for operationalising the Act, including addressing gaps or challenges.

    “Drive Tax Reforms: Specifically focus on the parliament’s role in conceptualising, initiating, and implementing tax reforms that are equitable, efficient, and conducive to economic growth.

    “Foster Collaboration: Create a platform for dialogue among members, experts, and stakeholders, fostering collaborative efforts towards economic and fiscal reforms.

    “Promote Accountability: Emphasise the importance of transparency, accountability, and effective oversight in public financial management and tax administration.

    The expected outcome of the retreat include enhanced understanding of the Petroleum Industry Act among members of the Nigeria House of Representatives, a clear roadmap for legislative and oversight roles in implementing the PIA, strengthened collaboration between the parliament, the executive, and other stakeholders in the petroleum sector.

    Others are, recommendations for policy adjustments, capacity building, and regulatory frameworks to support the effective implementation of the Act, and deeper insights and knowledge that inform the drafting and passage of legislation supporting economic development and tax reforms.

    The retreat would also cause improved capacity for effective oversight of government’s economic policies and public financial practices, ensuring alignment with national development goals.

  • PHOTOS: Senate President Akpabio, govs, federal lawmakers, celebrating Eid Mubarak with President Tinubu

    PHOTOS: Senate President Akpabio, govs, federal lawmakers, celebrating Eid Mubarak with President Tinubu

    President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio with the leadership of the National Assembly paid Sallah Visit to President Bola Tinubu in his private residence in Lagos on Friday, April 12, 2024.

  • Tinubu’s Meeting with State Governors: READ major issues

    Tinubu’s Meeting with State Governors: READ major issues

    President Bola Tinubu had an emergency meeting with governors of the federation earlier on Thursday, February 15, at the Council Chambers of the State House, Abuja.

    Vice President Kashim Shettima; the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chief Nyesom Wike; and Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun were also at the meeting, which commenced around 11:30 am.

    Here are some of the key takeaways from the meeting as highlighted by special adviser to President Tinubu on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga:

    1. On addressing insecurity which is also affecting farming and food production, President Tinubu made three key pronouncements.

     

    A. More police personnel to be recruited to strengthen the force.

    B. President Tinubu informed the governors that the federal government will work with them and the National Assembly towards putting in place a mechanism that will engender state police instead of the vigilantes that are being used in some states.

    C. The president charged the governors to strengthen their Forest Rangers and arm them to keep all the forest safe from criminals.

    D. Modalities for State Police and addressing security issues to be discussed further at National Economic Council.

    2. On the rising cost of food: The President directed that the State Governments and Federal government should collaborate to increase local food production. The President advised against the idea of food importation and price control when local food producers should be encouraged to produce more food.

    3. The President advised Governors to follow the example of Kano State in dealing with the hoarding of food for profiteering by commodities merchants. He directed the Inspector-General of Police, National Security Adviser, and Department of State Services to monitor warehouses hoarding food items across the country and stop profiteering by merchants.

    4. The President charged Governors to pay attention to livestock development in their states and increase production most especially poultry and fishing products.

    5. The President pleaded with Governors to ensure all salary arrears to workers, and gratuities to retired workers and pensioners are cleared as a way to put money into the hands of the people since states are now getting more monthly FAAC revenue. Spend the money, don’t spend the people, he urged the governors

    6. President Tinubu implored Governors to create more economic opportunities for the youths in their states to keep them more productively engaged.