After reading Peter Obi’s thoughtful New Year’s Day statement, Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the ruling APC, accused him of being an extreme pessimist and doomsayer who “has crossed the line of truth so many times” and “deserves whatever comes his way”.

Like many other onlookers, I am appalled by the obvious threat, deeply puzzled by Morka’s allegation and wondering what Obi said that was false.

It is Morka – a gaslighter and propagandist extraordinaire – who has problems with truth and I challenge him to properly explain his reasons for dismissing Obi’s honest observations and well-intentioned advice. 

Here are excerpts from Obi commonsense-filled statement:

“The political, economic and security situation of our country is worsening daily, despite contrary claims by the government of improvement in different spheres of human endeavour…Our national indices tell a disconcerting story.

•Nigeria remains one of the poverty capitals of the world, with over 100 million people living in extreme poverty and more than 150 million in multidimensional poverty. The situation has deteriorated significantly over the past 18 months under the current administration.    

•Nigeria remains one of the most insecure and least peaceful nations in the world, with countless communities and families displaced from their homes and now living in IDP camps. According to the Global Peace Index, GPI, Nigeria ranks 143rd out of 163 countries in terms of peacefulness – an indication of a high level of distress.

•Food insecurity has become our new national norm, making Nigeria one of the hungriest countries in the world. Gainfully employed and middle-income Nigerians now spend nearly their entire incomes on feeding, with some even resorting to borrowing just to eat. For those living on the margins – low-income earners and the unemployed – the situation is even more dire. The newly approved minimum wage of N70,000 cannot afford a bag of rice or even half a bag of beans. As a result, many Nigerians go to bed hungry, while a significant number now rely on palliatives and charitable support. Tragically, this has recently led to several avoidable deaths.    

•We have earned the dubious distinction of being one of the countries with the largest number of people without access to electricity. In 2024, despite abysmal and unacceptable power generation and distribution, the frequency of National Grid collapse increased significantly, with the Grid failing 12 times in 12 months.    

•Corruption, official malfeasance, fiscal profligacy, and the mismanagement of public resources continue to rise astronomically in our country, spreading across all spheres of government. Similarly, nepotism and disregard for the Constitution, the rule of law, and due process have become the norm.

•Our national debt has risen astronomically, from approximately N15 trillion in 2015 to N100 trillion today. This sharp increase has occurred within the past 18 months under the current administration.    

•Inflation remains at an all-time high, businesses are collapsing, and manufacturing companies are barely surviving, further contributing to the already high unemployment rate.

•We hold periodic elections that are no longer genuine. Our electoral processes are visibly flawed, lacking transparency and credibility.    

Peter Obi

Suggestions on the way forward

From all indications, Nigeria urgently needs selfless and exemplary leadership across the three arms and tiers of government. However, this much-needed exemplary leadership must begin at the very top. Since the ultimate responsibility lies with Mr. President, I will direct my attention to him.

Mr. President, present-day Nigeria aligns closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s powerful words: “We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now. This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive actions.”  …It is time to confront our national problems boldly, decisively, and with a sense of urgency. My suggestions are as follows:

Commence a visible and verifiable reduction in the cost of governance to allocate much-needed resources to critical areas of development, such as security, health, education, and poverty alleviation.

Aggressive and visible attention should be given to combating corruption. The focus should be on eliminating current and future official malfeasance through increased transparency and accountability in public procurement and contract award and execution processes.

All future borrowing must be tied to regenerative investments and visible, productive assets that benefit the nation…rather than continuing the current practice of accumulating massive debt with no tangible returns.

Mr. President, out of the approximately 580 days you have been in office, it is reported that you have spent over 30%, or around 180 days, on more than 30 publicly recorded overseas trips. My appeal is that you dedicate at least 20% of 2025 – roughly 72 days – to visit each of Nigeria’s 36 states for two days each. As President, such visits would give you the opportunity to better understand the dire economic and security situations across the country.

Furthermore, it is time for you to visit our national hospitals (and undergo a medical check up in one of them). This will allow you to assess the state of healthcare facilities… and make informed decisions on how to upgrade them.

Endeavour to travel by road to observe the condition of most highways.    

Make both impromptu and planned visits to our tertiary institutions…I recall President Shagari visiting the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, when I was a student there and telling us, ‘I have seen the facilities myself, and I assure you of my intervention.’ Facilities improved significantly thereafter.

As Commander-in-Chief, visit our military formations and security agencies, especially during their field operations, and provide them with morale-boosting assurances and support for operational efficiency. Reiterate that they and their families will always be taken care of.

Visit various IDP camps and assure these Nigerians that they will soon return to their communities, and that you are working hard to restore peace.

As President, you are no longer the Governor of Lagos State; therefore, consider spending your holidays in different parts of the country.    

The single most challenging test you face is ensuring that future elections are credible and truly reflect the will of the people.

Finally, Mr. President, Nigerians need to hear directly from you, not through your proxies. Quarterly updates on what you are doing to improve the situation in Nigeria are crucial.”

Ghanaian President Nana Akuffo-Addo’s last day in office was January 6, 2025. His country’s economy had crumbled at his feet. Even when newly sworn-in President John Dramani Mahama had not been adjudged an effective leader, Ghanaians see him as a sort of saviour. For them, anybody or group but Akufo-Addo and his cronies, was good enough for Ghana.

In a valedictory speech in parliament to signal the end of Akuffo-Addo’s disastrous tenure, a parliamentarian after cataloguing some of the woes Ghanaians went through under him, told the disgraced President: “It is finished!” So the parliamentarian thought. He did not suspect that for the larger African people, Akufo-Addo had a parting shot to deliver on behalf of his Western ‘partners’ who virtually ran Ghana with him as a figure-head and a spy.

In 2022 on the side-lines of the US-African Leaders Summit, Akufo-Addo snitched on neigbouring Burkina Faso to US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. He reported that Burkina Faso and Mali had brought in the Russian Wagner mercenary forces to fight Islamic terrorists. He informed that the Burkinabe Prime Minister had been in Moscow for ten days and that a mine has been given the Russians as payment. He told Blinken that he was uncomfortable with the Russian presence in a neigbouring country because Ghana supports Ukraine in the Russo-Ukrainian War.

I found it demeaning that an African President would stoop so low as to openly act as spy for a foreign country. Secondly, that an African Head of State would be reporting not to a fellow President or Vice President, but to the Foreign Minister of another country. Thirdly, I am not sure Akufo-Addo knew he was being filmed or that the video would be leaked.

It was quite tragic that rather than dialogue with his brothers across the border, the Ghanaian President flew all the way to Washington to go report to foreigners. This is also despite the fact that Burkina Faso and Ghana have the same Mossi nationality on both sides of their colonial borders. Akufo-Addo claimed that all he was doing was bring the issue of Russian presence in the region to the notice of the US. But was he so daft as to think that the Americans were unaware that the Burkinabes expelled the French and invited the Russians?

Perhaps the most nauseating part of the report was Akufo-Addo claiming that his country’s concern was that it did not want the military of the big powers to operate in West Africa. He made this claim while being conscious that his government had permitted the US to operate a military base in Ghana.

Akufo-Addo is like a sex worker who shouts in public that she is a virgin and insists her customers accept this as the truth. Even after allowing the US Military base, he told a blatant lie in April 2018 that Ghana had not offered and will not offer a military base to the US. A lawyer who is clever by half, he assumed that the African people are stupid; that since the US military base in Ghana has been baptised as the West African Logistics Network, WALN, it meant the base did not exist.

When opposition parliamentarian, Brogya Genfi sued the government for eroding the country’s sovereignty by agreeing to the slavish Ghana-US Military Base Agreement, the Ghanaian Supreme Court on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 ruled that the suit was unmeritorious.

When on August 12, 2022, I wrote against the US Military Base in Ghana in my column titled: “How Ghana surrendered its independence to the US”, I got protest phone calls from the Ghana High Commission in Abuja. The embassy claimed I was unfair to President Akufo-Addo and that I had misrepresented facts. I was invited to a meeting on Monday, August 15, 2022 with the High Commissioner in his office on Diplomatic Drive, Abuja. I agreed to the meeting but insisted the venue should be a public place like an hotel lobby. The High Commission picked Rockview Hotel, Wuse II, Abuja. The High Commissioner sent a representative to the meeting who tried to put the blame for the US Military Base on the previous administration. I pointed out that the parliament that approved the base was not under the past government and that in any case, if it is true that the Akufo-Addo government was opposed to the base, what has it done for the over four years it has been in power to repeal the Agreement, more so when it provides that it can be terminated by a one-year written notice by either side. The Ghanaian diplomat rambled and called for a second meeting which expectedly, never took place.

The Akufo-Addo culture of betraying the African dream and selling Ghana for cheap, is a family tradition. His father, Edward Akufo-Addo, and his uncle, Joseph William Ofori-Attah, were part of the Group of Four Ghanaian elites who facilitated the February 24, 1966 American Central Intelligence Agency, CIA, coup against the principled Pan Africanist, Kwame Nkrumah. After that coup, the senior Akufo-Addo became the Attorney General of the new military junta. Four years into the coup, he was appointed President of Ghana.

When 50 years later, Akufo-Addo, like his father, became President of Ghana, I knew the country was heading for disaster. Hence, I titled my December 16, 2016 column, “Ghana: An African Dream Deferred.”

This Monday, the eve of his departure as Ghanaian President, Akufo-Addo tried to defer another African dream by purportedly suspending diplomatic relations with the sister African country, the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic, SADR, better known as Western Sahara.

It is yet unclear why Akufo-Addo decided to severe diplomatic relations with Western Sahara in favour of the illegal occupation of parts of that country by monarchical Morocco. There are two possible reasons I can discern: either he acted at the behest of his Western masters, or due to the largess Morocco is sharing amongst African countries. Who knows, given his retirement, Akufo-Addo may be enticed by the Moroccan subversive generosity.

We Africans in our tens of millions, expect President Mahama to reverse this Akufo-Addo attempt to disunite our continent. We expect him to be on the same page as African leaders like Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu and South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa who, in a joint communiqué on December 3, 2024, reiterated their unwavering support for the inalienable right of our Saharawi brothers and sisters to freedom, self-determination and justice. This is in accordance with the October 16, 1975 decision of the International Court of Justice, the rulings of European Court of Justice, ECJ and the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights and, the Charters of the African Union and the United Nations.

Everyone is expecting my comment on the recent engagement of a foreign coach for the country’s national football team, the Super Eagles. I am sorry that I am going to disappoint those expecting me to criticize or praise the appointment. I am numb!

Like every other Nigerian, I knew a search was on for a foreign coach for the national team. I assumed the search would be quick, thorough and limited to Europe where most of the best coaches in the world are found. That should be expected considering that Nigerians have lofty ambitions – to play against all the odds and still qualify for the 2026 World Cup; to do better than the last time and win the African Cup of Nations this year in Morocco; and to leave a major mark on the 2026 World Cup as an authentic outside contender.

Those are the goals that would satisfy Nigerian football fans after sacking the last two European coaches, both disasters; after rejecting their own indigenous coaches that could not deliver expected results; and not even considering other qualified Nigerians as an option.

It was clear that the NFF was not inclined to anyone but the best White-skinned coach from Europe as good enough for the Super Eagles. Hence, the long search and long wait.

Meanwhile, tired of singing my hollow minority song of support for any one of several Nigerian ex-international players with good reputation as players, good paper qualifications after retiring, and varied experiences limited only because of the general practice of discrimination against African coaches in Europe, I decided to join the wait for the NFF’s messianic coach from Europe that many of my colleagues insisted must be the only way.

So, whilst waiting for the NFF to do their job and to announce the name of one of several known, qualified and experienced European ‘World-Class’ coaches being touted as best for Nigeria and must be hired otherwise the world will end, I turned to other pursuits in life.

The waiting has been long, and the people, impatient.

Early this week, the NFF finally pulled the chest nut out of the fire. Since then, even amongst some of the most virulent critics of the NFF have been stunned into the silence of disbelief.

What did the NFF see that the rest of the world did not see in this unusual choice of a coach? It was expected that he would be the product of a meticulous and thorough scrutiny of criteria needed to identify a ‘World Class’ coach with often-padded wages well-secured against previous shenanigans.

This time, a wiser NFF was expected to avoid, by all means, even the slightest whiff of a scandal.

Those were the thoughts of Nigerians when the lingering dragged on for a long time. With all eyes trained on the process, expectations were high that there would be no dubiousness in ascertaining the records, credentials, experiences, qualifications and reputation of anyone chosen since no excuses would be acceptable, given the precarious position of the Super Eagles on the Group Table.

In short, the NFF must hire a coach whose choice can be easily justified.

Suddenly, from the quiet of the graveyard came the announcement that has now left a large chunk of the country’s football eggheads in a state of stupor, unable to understand the rationale and the motivation for such a bizarre choice of a coach.

Even I did not accept as true the initial reports. I half-expected to wake up from a bad dream.

Eric Chelle is such an audacious choice that the NFF must have seen what the rest of the country did not.

I reason that the NFF must have chosen to follow the road less travelled in order to depart from the failed processes of the past, destroy the norm, and chart a completely new route to the future with a classic ‘shock and awe’ strategy.

If that was their plan, the NFF may have succeeded. The country is in animated suspense, everyone unsure of what to make of this seeming period of ‘madness’.

I have been listening to various reactions to it and, like me, many people have been silenced by the audacity of the process and the eventual choice.

In football, realistically and by all known parameters, Eric Chelle, almost does not ‘exist’. His career as a player was ordinary, played in France only, and was mostly in the obscurity of the lower leagues. His international experience can be counted on the fingers of one hand – 5 international caps for Mali, an African country that has never won anything in football, and never even qualified for the World Cup.

Eric finished his playing career and embarked on a coaching regimen that is so lean that everything and the best of what he did can be summed up in one item – leading Mali to the quarter-finals of the last AFCON about a year ago. That’s it. That’s all. That’s who Nigeria finally settles for as the ‘world class’ coach that will take the country and the country’s football to El Dorado? That’s who ‘the Giant of Africa’ chooses ahead of its legion of retired ex-internationals with experiences and qualifications that make Eric’s look like kindergarten stuff.

Forgive me, but I am still trying to stop myself from thinking this is the greatest disrespect of a Nigerian in any field of endeavour. I am struggling to take it all in and see the side I may not be seeing through my pained eyes.

I initially told myself it must be some ‘deep fake’ news. I have since called up one of the bosses in the NFF and he confirmed it as true. I asked him what the process of selection was and the motivation to make such a hard-to-justify choice. He advised me to call and ask Victor Ikpeba, one time Africa’s Best Player, a great football analyst on television, my good friend and a member of the Technical Committee that recommended the Malian coach to the NFF board.

I respect the ‘Prince of Monaco’, so I chose not call to ask him, give the NFF every benefit of doubt and then, ‘Siddon-look’ the drama that will unfold.

Meanwhile, I am thinking and wondering at the sheer audacity of the NFF in choosing to take this difficult route to success. There must be something I am missing and failing to see and appreciate in this their choice.

So, I am NOT going to comment on it at all. I shall wait and watch and learn. There may be something to take away from this.

After all, in 1990, when a coach was to be hired for the Nigerian national team at the time, the NFA hired a man, whose qualifications have been the least in Nigeria’s football history.

Yes, Clemens Westerhof, may be the most successful coach to date in Nigeria’s football history, but going through his credentials at the time he was hired, he has also been the least qualified coach in Nigeria’s football history.

Eric Chelles qualifications are even a notch higher statistically than Westerhof’s in 1990. So, is the NFF drinking from the Westerhof model? Can that be what the NFF sees and thinks will repeat itself again in 2025?

That is a question only time and the next few months will tell.

So, it makes sense for me to sit and observe the drama, either way. Nigerians should be prepared to cry or to laugh. The choice of Eric Chelle presents the stage for an epic drama. It will turn out to be the product of either ‘Wickedness’ or ‘Genius’.

Actor Yul Edochie and his second wife, Judy Austin continue to face criticism, but their love for each other remains strong. Despite the backlash, they have remained inseparable. The couple’s chemistry and commitment to each other have been evident in their public displays of affection and heartfelt messages.

Recently, Judy Austin paid a touching tribute to Yul Edochie on his birthday, praising him as her “king” and “soulmate.” The actor marked his birthday on January 7, while Austin’s birthday comes a week after her husband’s special day.

Edochie had earlier expressed his love and gratitude for Judy Austin in a post on Instagram.

Paying tribute to her husband, Austin said “Our compatibility is out of this world and that’s our biggest strength.” According to her, it’s not a coincidence that their birthdays are exactly one week apart.

She emphasized in her heartfelt message their distinctive connection, love, and mutual respect, thanking her husband for making her a better version of herself.

“You’re dependable,.You’re the strongest man I know. You’re fearless. One man squad. Your destiny will shock the world. Your greatness will be studied in generations to come!!! You’re a rare diamond that can never be replaced. I’m the luckiest woman alive to have you as my King.”

Meanwhile, fans continue to criticize Judy Austin, labeling her a “husband snatcher” and accusing her of ruining Yul Edochie’s destiny. The couple’s love has been met with intense scrutiny and criticism, since last April after the actor announced Judy Austin as his second wife. But despite the odds, they remain committed to each other.

[Vanguard]

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited Subomi and Wahab, the sons of Razaq Okoya, the billionaire industrialist, for interrogation over alleged abuse of the naira. 

In the invite signed by Michael Wetkas, acting director of the Lagos directorate of the EFCC, the anti-graft agency directed the duo to report to the head, special operations team at the 15A Awolowo Road office of the commission by 10am on Monday, January 13, 2025.

The Okoya brothers have been in the news for “abusing the naira” in a promotional video for a new song.

The video — which featured a police officer holding wads of N1,000 notes as the boys encircled to a tune — had elicited outrage on social media.

On January 10, Muyiwa Adejobi, spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), announced that the officer seen in the video had been arrested and detained.

He said the officer’s actions were unethical, adding that he would face disciplinary action.

“The policeman captured in the recent viral video shared by the sons of the Lagos businessman, Chief Okoya, where they were abusing the naira, has been identified and detained for disciplinary action,” Adejobi wrote on X.

“The involvement of the policeman has been condemned, as it’s unethical. We will always strive hard to uphold the sanctity, credibility, and core values of the police.”

In 2024, the EFCC ramped up its enforcement of naira abuse by celebritries, citing Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act.

On April 4, Bobrisky, the social media celebrity, was arrested by the commission in Lagos for defacing naira notes.

The crossdresser was arraigned on a six-count charge by the EFCC.

On April 16, the EFCC filed a three-count charge against Cubana Chief Priest, the socialite and social media influencer, over alleged naira abuse.

[TheCable]

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Enugu State on January 4th, 2025, was not just a routine stop on his presidential itinerary. It was a significant symbol of partnership, progress, and the alignment of federal and state development agendas. As the President’s convoy traversed the streets of Enugu, it consolidates the symbolism of the state’s new era of growth and transformation under Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership. The commissioning of major infrastructural projects during this visit marked a significant milestone in Enugu’s ambitious journey toward economic revitalization and modernization.

Governor Mbah’s strategic vision to elevate Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion in eight years reflects an unwavering commitment to reshaping the state through targeted investments in key sectors. This bold economic roadmap is not just about figures but about fundamentally improving the lives of Enugu’s residents. President Tinubu’s visit, laden with commendations and shared optimism, underscored the collaborative spirit that defines Nigeria’s federal structure when it functions at its best. The visit signified a shared belief that states like Enugu can become economic powerhouses through strategic governance, infrastructure development, and innovative policies.

President Tinubu, addressing a crowd of dignitaries and citizens, lauded Governor Mbah’s leadership. “You are doing great things in Enugu State,” he said. “The work you are doing here will serve as a model for other states across Nigeria.” These words encapsulated the essence of the visit—a celebration of achievement and a call for sustained progress.

Among the flagship projects commissioned were the Smart Green Schools, healthcare centres, and expansive road networks, each playing a critical role in laying the foundation for Enugu’s future. The Smart Green Schools initiative is a testament to Governor Mbah’s focus on quality education as a catalyst for long-term economic growth. The Smart Green Schools initiative integrates modern technology with traditional education frameworks, equipping students with digital literacy and entrepreneurial skills essential for thriving in a globalized economy. By constructing 260 Smart Green Schools across the state, the administration aims to foster experiential learning that equips students with practical skills. As of the first quarter of 2024, over 30 of these schools had already been completed, with the pilot project at Owo in Nkanu East LGA standing out as a beacon of educational innovation. Governor Mbah’s administration projects that the remaining schools will be fully operational by September 2025, creating opportunities for over 100,000 students.

In 2024, the Enugu State Government demonstrated its commitment to fostering educational development by allocating N134.9 billion to the education sector. This figure represents a significant 33% of the total state budget, reflecting a strong prioritization of human capital development. The upward trajectory continues into 2025, with N320.6 billion earmarked for education, constituting over 33.2% of the overall budget. This bold financial commitment surpasses UNESCO’s recommended benchmark of 15% to 20% of national budgets allocated to education. Such strategic investment highlights the administration’s resolve to address infrastructural deficits, enhance teacher capacity, and expand educational opportunities across the state.

The healthcare sector’s revitalization, bolstered by new Type 2 and Type 3 Primary Healthcare Centres, with the establishment of 60 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres and the revitalization of three Type 3 facilities in Uzo-Uwani, Awgu, and Nkanu East LGAs, is a clear testament to the administration’s dedication to providing accessible and high-quality medical services. The government’s strategy involves constructing new facilities and upgrading existing ones to meet international standards. By focusing on renewable energy to power these centres and ensuring the availability of medical staff around the clock, Enugu is addressing long-standing gaps in healthcare delivery. The emphasis on decentralizing healthcare services underscores the administration’s belief that quality healthcare should be a fundamental right accessible to every citizen.

Security infrastructure was also prominent during the visit. The commissioning of the state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre and a Distress Response Squad (DRS), outfitted with 100 patrol vehicles and advanced surveillance tools, has ensured that incidents of violence and disruption are swiftly addressed. These vehicles are equipped with AI-enabled surveillance cameras capable of facial and license plate recognition, and their operations have marked a significant leap forward in safeguarding lives and properties. This comprehensive approach to security, which includes specialized police units and distress response squads, has effectively ended the previously destabilizing sit-at-home orders in the state. Since June 2024, crime rates in Enugu have dropped significantly, underscoring the effectiveness of the new security architecture. Enugu’s transformation into a secure and business-friendly environment is critical to attracting investment and fostering economic growth.

Infrastructure development featured prominently in the Governor’s agenda, with the commissioning of 90 urban roads across Enugu City, the Enugu International Conference Centre and the ongoing construction of four ultra-modern transport hubs, exemplifies the government’s commitment to improving mobility and reducing congestion. Inspired by models from Singapore and Dubai, these transport infrastructure projects are designed to enhance connectivity and support sustainable urban growth. For example, the Gariki Central Station project, which is now 80% complete, is expected to handle over 200,000 passengers daily upon completion. These projects are critical to enhancing intra-state connectivity, reducing travel time, and stimulating local commerce.

Water supply has been another cornerstone of Mbah’s developmental efforts. True to his campaign promise, the Governor delivered the 9th Mile 24/7 Water Scheme on November 25th, 2023 – 180 days after his inauguration. This project ramped up daily water production from a sporadic 2 million litres to 120 million litres—representing a 5,900% increase in capacity. Recognizing the challenges of ageing infrastructure, the administration has embarked on an extensive overhaul of water distribution systems, including replacing obsolete asbestos pipes with modern ductile iron alternatives. To modernize the city’s water infrastructure, the administration secured a $100 million Austrian investment for the Sustainable Last Mile Connectivity and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project, replacing outdated asbestos pipes with durable ductile iron alternatives. This project not only enhances water accessibility but also mitigates the health risks associated with ageing infrastructure, ensuring clean and safe water for all residents.

Governor Mbah’s fiscal strategy reflects a decisive shift towards capital investments. In 2024, the total budget for Enugu State stood at N521.5 billion. A remarkable N414.3 billion, constituting 79% of the budget, was dedicated to capital expenditure. This allocation underscores the government’s focus on infrastructure projects, development programs, and economic growth initiatives aimed at long-term prosperity. The fiscal strategy deepened in 2025, with the total budget expanding to N971 billion. Capital expenditure saw a proportional increase, receiving N837.9 billion or 86% of the total budget. This shift highlights a deliberate effort to drive development by constructing roads, healthcare facilities, schools, and other public infrastructure, fostering economic resilience and sustainable growth.

A significant driver of fiscal expansion has been the robust growth in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). By the third quarter of 2024, IGR had surged by an impressive 286.2%, rising from N37.4 billion in mid-2023 to N144.7 billion. This remarkable growth can be attributed to improved tax collection mechanisms, economic diversification, and enhanced public services. Such revenue growth signals an increasingly self-reliant state economy, reducing dependency on federal allocations and empowering the government to implement transformative projects.

The transport sector faces a facelift with the construction of four ultra-modern Transport Infrastructure Projects (TIP) in Holy Ghost, Gariki, Abakpa, and Nsukka. Inspired by global models from Singapore and Dubai, these hubs aim to streamline traffic, reduce congestion, and stimulate economic activities in the state’s rapidly urbanizing regions. These modern transit systems reflect the administration’s commitment to urban planning and sustainable development.

Energy reform has not been left behind. Governor Mbah championed the Enugu State Electricity Bill’s passage, leading to the creation of the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC). This initiative paved the way for Independent Power Projects (IPP), such as the 10MW plant by Fedikore Limited, ensuring more stable electricity for businesses and households. The establishment of Mainpower Limited, a new distribution entity, signifies Enugu’s quest for energy autonomy and industrial growth.

In a historic move, the Governor introduced a N80,000 minimum wage for all state workers—a first for Enugu State. This policy, which extends to local government employees and primary school teachers, highlights the administration’s commitment to equitable economic growth and workers’ welfare.

President Tinubu’s visit was a ceremonial engagement and a validation of Enugu’s developmental trajectory. The projects and policies inaugurated during this visit reflect a bold vision for the future grounded in innovation, security, and inclusive growth. As Enugu strides confidently into the future, it stands as a model of transformative governance for the rest of Nigeria. As Enugu continues to forge ahead, the significance of these projects extends beyond their physical manifestation. They represent hope, resilience, and a belief in the potential of collective action. Enugu State is rewriting its own narrative and setting a standard for regional development across Nigeria by leveraging technology, fostering education, and enhancing infrastructure.

The President’s visit to Enugu was a resounding affirmation of the state’s trajectory toward becoming an economic hub and a model for progress. Governor Mbah’s bold initiatives in education, healthcare, security, and economic diversification reflect a leadership attuned to the needs of the people while remaining forward-looking. This visit was a moment of celebration and a rallying point for further action and deeper collaboration between state and federal governments. As Enugu State looks to the future, the projects commissioned during this visit stand as pillars of development, promising a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow for all.

Dr Jeff Ukachukwu is a renowned communication expert and public commentator 

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has summoned the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Attorney-General of the Federation, AGF, Lateef Fagbemi, over issues of the Expatriates Employment Levy, EEL.

According to the court summons, both are to appear before the court on January 16 to explain why implementing the proposed expatriate taxation regime should not be stopped.

The presiding judge, Justice Inyang Ekwo, gave this ruling on Thursday after a motion ex parte moved by Patrick Peter, counsel who appeared for the plaintiff.

Ekwo directed that the minister and the AGF be served with the motion within three days of the order.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CD/1780/2024, was filed by the Incorporated Trustees of New Kosol Welfare Initiative.

The group sought an order of interim injunction barring the defendants from commencing the implementation of the new expatriates’ taxation regime in Nigeria until the motion is heard and decided.

In the affidavit attached to the suit, the Programme Implementation Coordinator of the group, Raphael Ezeh, said the EEL taxation policy was announced by the federal government on Tuesday, February 27, 2024.

“According to KPMG and other online information analysts and dissemination agencies, the federal government intends to compel all companies and organizations who engage the services of expatriates to pay EEL as follows: For every expatriate on the level of a director, fifteen thousand United States dollars ($15,000) equivalent to twenty-three million naira, by the current exchange rates, per annum.

“For every expatriate on a non-director level, ten thousand United States dollars ($10,000) equivalent to sixteen million naira, by the current exchange rates (N16,000,000) per annum,” he said.

According to Ezeh, the federal government has also proposed additional regulations, including penalties and sanctions for non-compliance with the proposed taxation regime.

Ezeh stated that inaccurate or incomplete reporting would result in five years of imprisonment and/or a fine of N1 million.

He noted that the failure of a corporate entity to file the EEL within 30 days will attract a penalty of N3 million.

The Programme Implementation Coordinator added that failure to register an employee within 30 days or the submission of false information will also attract a penalty of N3 million.

The failure of an organization to renew the EEL before its expiry date will incur a sanction of N3 million.

“The proposed taxation regime is totally an anti-people policy because of its radical effect on different aspects of the Nigerian economy, and it works like a choke-hold against the economic growth of the nation,” he said.

He noted that taxation is a sensitive issue that requires collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government under the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

He pointed out that, under Section 59 of the Constitution, the executive arm alone lacks the authority to impose taxes on corporate bodies and citizens.

The matter was adjourned to January 16 for the defendants to appear before the court and show cause.

The Federal Ministry of Interior suspended the implementation of the EEL in 2024 to allow for further consultations with the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, NACCIMA, and other stakeholders.

[DailyPost]

Former Inspector General of Police Mike Okiro has withdrawn from the race to occupy the position of President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

Okiro made the announcement at a briefing in Enugu on Thursday night.

He cited the order of an Enugu State High Court barring him from contesting in the election for his withdrawal.

The election is scheduled to January 10, 2015. 

According to him: “I have been made aware of the Enugu State High Court’s interim order, which regrettably restrains me from contesting the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Presidency General Election tomorrow.

“The court order, based on alleged non-indigene status, contradicts verifiable facts. It is unfortunate that the court did not invite me or heard from me before giving that obnoxious order which I got from the media. The facts are (a) That I hail from Egbema in Rivers State as shown by my National Population Commission Attestation of Birth. (b) My Traditional Ruler, the Nzeobi of Egbema, has also confirmed my indigene status of Rivers State. (c) I have written many books where my indigeneship of Rivers State is shown in the author’s column. A good example is my best seller, titled: “Nigeria: The Restructuring ‘Controversy”. (d) Page 6 of my biography written by Mr. Dozie Okebalama also shows my indigeneship of Rivers. (e) I have attended many Imeobi meetings where I represented Rivers State in the attendance list compiled by the Secretary-General. (f) As a student in the University of Ibadan, I was a member of the Rivers State Students’ Association, where I was elected as Treasurer, and another Great UIte, now Bistinguished Senator Andrew Uchendu was elected as Secretary. (g) I was representing Rivers State during the meetings of the South-South People’s Assembly under our respected leader, Chief Edwin Clark, where Prof. Pat. Utomi, another Great Nigerian, represented Delta State. My records and credentials speak for themselves.

“As an Igbo man and elder statesman of Rivers State Extraction which said position has been zoned to by the electoral committee, I believe in the rule of law and shall respect the court’s order.

“My Obedience to court orders, no matter how unfavorable, demonstrates our commitment to democracy. I believe in the principles of rule of law as the rule of law ensures our collective progress.

“The rule of law safeguards our society; its principles must be upheld, our democratic values are non-negotiable, together we will emerge stronger. Our stance for justice, due process and rule of law shall vindicate us.

“I will not participate in any election pending the final determination of the matter pending before Hon Justice N.R Oji of Enugu State High Court which court gave the restraining order.

“Although I’ve not been formally served with the suit/processes or order, my commitment to law and order remains unwavering, despite the fact that the reliefs granted in the order against me appears to undermine my fundamental right guaranteed in Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“My distinguished career as Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police underscores my dedication to justice and what is noble.

“I have instructed the Chambers of Eze Okafor & Co, my lawyers to pursue the case to its logical conclusion to ensure that the purveyors of hate and lawlessness are brought to book in line with our enabling laws.

“As provided by our constitution, I demand to be heard, and I am sure that the court will ensure that the twin pillars of natural justice will be observed to the later in handling the case. We have not lost hope in our judicial system.

“I urge my immediate community Egbema, the entire Igbo speaking people of Rivers state who are solidly behind me and all my supporters across Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, and Delta to stand by the rule of law throughout the period of this contest.

“Our resolve strengthens Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s unity and progress. Together, we’ll navigate this challenge.

“My Governor, His Excellency, Siminialayi Fubara GSSRS unwavering support is most highly appreciated and same cannot be taken for granted. Your Excellency’s leadership indeed inspires me.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo embodies Igbo unity, progress, and peaceful coexistence. Our organization promotes harmony among Igbos worldwide. Let’s prioritize peace and unity.

“I reaffirm my commitment to Ohanaeze Ndigbo Ideals; unity, progress and peace in Igbo land.

“Justice shall prevail; Igbo unity and progress remain our guiding principles.

“I assure all of you that we shall overcome this minor setback as our democratic values are non-negotiable.”

[TheNation]