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Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for broader inclusion of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and high-net-worth individuals in Nigeria’s tax net to address growing tax evasion and boost revenue collection.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue, Ogungbo Abdul-Kabir Opeyemi, made the call on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the 27th Annual Tax Conference of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria in Abuja.
In his goodwill message, the governor pointed to a clause in the new tax reform bills awaiting constitutional approval, which exempts employees earning below N800,000 annually from Personal Income Tax, as a potential gap that must be tackled.
He said, “The clause(s) that puts a cap on income of employees at N800,000 per annum, before it can be subjected to Personal Income Tax, requires deliberate strategies to ensure taxpayers hiding in the MSME and start-up sectors are brought into the tax net and intensify effort on Direct Assessment drive for high net worth individuals to forestall the trend of tax evasion as witnessed across the country today.”
He urged sub-national governments to play a leading role in the implementation of the reforms and not wait on the Federal Government alone.
“It is imperative that as sub-nationals, we not only embrace but also lead the implementation drive,” he said.
The governor further called for policy commitments by state governments to update laws, adopt technology, invest in data analytics, and develop human capital to fully harness the benefits of the reform.
Highlighting Lagos as a benchmark for effective tax administration, Sanwo-Olu attributed the state’s recent internally generated revenue milestone of N1tn in 2024 to its digital reforms and a citizen-friendly approach to tax compliance.
“Our payer-centric system successfully built in conveniences and transformed how taxpayers fulfil their obligations without leaving their comfort zones. This greatly promoted voluntary compliance, hence the N1tn modest IGR stride achieved by Lagos State Internal Revenue Service in the 2024 fiscal year,” he said.
He added that Lagos had deployed artificial intelligence chatbots for engaging citizens, integrated data analytics, and created a harmonised platform through the Lagos Revenue Portal to improve efficiency and transparency.
Sanwo-Olu also highlighted initiatives such as the N10bn partnership with the Bank of Industry to support MSMEs and the passage of the Lagos State Electricity Law in December 2024 to promote energy self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on the national grid.
He reiterated the importance of fiscal reforms to national development, stating, “These elements are critical to realising the full potential of our tax reform efforts, enhancing fiscal capacity, and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s overarching goal of attaining a $1tn economy.”
While commending President Bola Tinubu for his strategic leadership in driving tax and economic reforms, the governor also praised CITN for its commitment to building a resilient tax culture in Nigeria.
Why I’ve been living in a church for six years despite ill-health, missing daughter — Actress Jumoke George
AFOLABI
Veteran Nollywood actress, Jumoke George, has opened up in a emotional interview on how she started living in a church six years ago, while battling illness and the heartbreak of a missing child.
Speaking in tears on the TalkToB show hosted by fellow actress, Abiola Adebayo, Jumoke said she hid her predicament due to shame and fear of public ridicule.
The veteran actress explained that her health began to deteriorate earlier this year which forced her to cancel scheduled acting jobs.
She said, “There are some things that are embarrassing to say but at this point, I have no choice. I want to speak out. I am working but it’s not like I get jobs every time.
“Sometimes, it could be once in three to four months. That was before I became ill. After I became ill, I couldn’t go for a set I was invited to. Someone paid me since last year, I didn’t know I would get sick, I spent the money on treatment. I had to borrow money to refund the person.
“I went to another location but I couldn’t work. They had to bring me back because of my health. I’ve done several tests. I was told to do some more which will cost about N400,000. I don’t know where to get the money from.”
Six Years of Homelessness
Still speaking through her tears, the actress disclosed that she has been living inside a church for the past six years after being evicted from her apartment due to rising rent she could no longer afford.
“The house rent became high and I couldn’t afford it anymore. The landlord told me to leave, I begged but what can I do?” She said.
She added that the church leader gave her a small space to stay which she had to keep secret from many people because she was embarrassed.
“Daddy told me to bring my things to a place he got for me but it was too small, it couldn’t even contain my things, so I had to put my luggage with different people. The things I worked for all my life were just getting spoilt.
“I was given a small room to manage, so I didn’t let people know where I was staying, except a few people who I didn’t even take to the room.
“Everyone in the church has access to the room. I only welcomed guests in daddy’s living room downstairs where they hold events like harvest.
“So, I’ve been living in the church for about six years. This is where I put my mattress to sleep,” she said pointing at a space on the floor inside the church.
“It’s mummy church that gives me food to eat most times. Daddy died about two years ago, mummy church has also been trying. She buys drug for me and boils herbs for me.
“I’ve been living in the church. I couldn’t speak up because it was shameful. I was embarrassed,” she added.
Missing Daughter, Son In Debt
Jumoke’s pain doesn’t end with her health or homelessness as she revealed that her first child, Adeola, has been missing for four years.
“My first child, Adeola, has been missing. I’ve been looking for her for the past four years. Any small money I get from working was spent on looking for her.
“She was in Ibadan where she was working and living with my mother. So my mother just called me one day to say that she hasn’t seen Deola who said she was coming to meet me in Lagos. I said I haven’t seen her,” Jumoke recalled.
She disclosed that Adeola, however, called one day to beg for forgiveness and informed her that she migrated with some friends in search of a better life but they met something different.
Jumoke said, “Then one day she called me with a strange number, I had no idea where she was calling from, she said I should forgive her. I asked to know where she was, she said I should just forgive her that she doesn’t know where her journey will lead her to.
“She said some of her friends told her that they should travel to a certain country that she didn’t mention to find greener pasture but when they got there, they met a different situation.
“Since then, I haven’t heard anything from her. I’m the one taking care of her children because I’ve not seen the father of the children since they separated when the children were younger. I don’t have his number, I don’t know his town, I don’t know where to find him. She was born in 1984, she clocked 41 on May 1, this year. If she was here, at least we’ll be managing together.”
During the interview, Jumoke revealed that her son, Ife, has borrowed close to ₦2 million to support her medical treatment and general upkeep.
“Ife, has also been assisting me. He has tried. I have put him in so much debt.
“He has borrowed a lot to transfer to me. The money he has borrowed for me is close to N2 million. I’m worried about him. Let them not sack him at work.
“His salary is small but he has been trying to take care of me. He is searching relentlessly for his sister too,” she said.
‘Pain Is Not Good,’ Jumoke Calls For Prayers
Throughout the interview, the actress pleaded with viewers for prayers, saying she has exhausted every option and doesn’t know if her suffering is spiritual.
“I am tired. I have tried my best as a believer. Even with my ill health, I have been fasting and praying. I don’t understand again, whether it is spiritual or not.
“Please pray for me, mothers in this world. Help me with your prayers. I need prayers. I have never ruined anyone life. I am tired, I can no longer bare it. No house, nothing, and a whole child is missing. Pain is not good. Please people pray for me,” she said.
Jumoke is now calling on the public not just for sympathy but for support and prayers.
Media
A heated immigration debate on X has turned into a linguistic showdown after a British user claimed the UK care sector had become “critically dependent on Nigerians who barely speak English.”
The controversy started when Rachel Clarke tweeting as #doctor_oxford wrote on Monday, “1 in 5 of the UK’s care workforce have a non-British passport. Starmer would have us believe these carers are the “squalid” result of a “failed experiment”. I say they do vital, necessary, humane, skilled work and they are worth their weight in gold.”
In response, Angantýr who tweets as #BasedNorthmathr wrote, “Why did we make our care sector critically dependent on Nigerians who barely speak English and each bring with them 3 dependents”
This remark quickly sparked widespread backlash from Nigerian users, who were swift to defend their community and their command of the English language.
One of the most prominent responses came from Ifedayo (#ifedayo_johnson) who publicly challenged Angantýr to a full English language proficiency test, including writing, listening, reading, and speaking.
Ifedayo wrote, “I’m openly challenging you to an English Language Skills test. This would entail Writing, Listening, Speaking and Listening tests.
“If your overall score is higher than mine, I’ll quietly pack my bags and leave this country within 24 hours. But if I score higher than you, you’ll keep your mouth shut and never again question or disrespect the English Language skills of any Nigerian. Let me know when you’re ready so we fix the date and other modalities. About time y’all are put where you belong.”
In response, Angantýr agreed, saying, “Okay, I’ll do it.” However, Ifedayo raised the stakes by proposing a second phase of the challenge to compare both parties’ economic contributions and benefit usage in the UK.
The Nigerian wrote, “I suggest it be on a Twitter space so everyone can have real time update. We will start by tendering the highest level of university education we both have. Then straight to the test proper.
“After this first phase is done and dusted, I’ll challenge you once again on behalf of every Nigerians to show what you contribute into the country and economy in terms of taxes etc. and what you take from it in terms of benefits and other public funds. I will also do same.”
He added, “If I take from this country more than I contribute, I’ll pack my bags and leave within 24 hours. If my contribution is higher than yours and I what I take back is lower than yours, you’ll keep mute and never drag Nigerians into any of your agenda again! Please, let me know whenever you’re ready as I’m ready anytime you are.”
The Briton however replied by clarifying that he agreed only to the English proficiency tests, adding that he will “happily do an IELTS and we can compare scores. I’ll get back to you.”
Further criticising the initial comment made by the Briton, Ifedayo wrote, “If no be condition wey make crayfish bend, How many English una sabi. Despite stereotypes, Nigerians consistently rank among the most proficient English speakers in the United Kingdom. Like I said, these guys just need to be put where they belong. Imagine saying Nigerians can barely speak English.”
In a separate challenge, another user, #agodliveshere, offered a £3,000 prize for a test involving 50 objective questions and two 1000-word essays, which Angantýr also accepted.
#agodliveshere added, “An examiner(s), questions, and method are needed; then location, time, and date should follow. You will need to take some responsibility too. You are the one who needs to prove Nigerians barely speak English. Drop your email address in my inbox, and I will reach out for the planning. I can’t sort out venue, examiners, logistics, time, date and judges all alone. WDYS?
Angantýr however has not responded to the call for the arrangement.
When another Nigerian, Sam Omezia (#SOmezia1) also challenged the Briton to an English language test, Angantýr declined saying, “Sorry man I’m fully booked.”
As the exchange continued, some Nigerians on X.com corrected Angantýr’s grammar, with some pointing out that his phrase “each bring” was grammatically incorrect and should be “each brings.”
Nyakno Abbasi, tweeting as #YNyakno, wrote, “Mr Speaker, Shouldn’t it be “each brings” instead of “each bring” for subject-verb agreement? Just a Nigerian correcting a Brit who barely writes well.”
Some others continued to defend Nigerians’ command of the English language.
Aina Orosun tweeting as #seyfunmi argued that although English is a foreign language which Nigerians are forced to learn in school, many of them can outperform native English speakers in grammar and vocabulary.
“We learnt it forcefully and we will beat you the colonizers silly. When you hear Nigerians, you will run,” he wrote.
Damidiya tweeting as #ogunlola23 commented under the Briton’s post saying,” There is no Nigerian here that does not speak good English and has a minimum of BSC, I have both BSC and MSC and I speak English better than you bro. Thank you!”
Akinwunmi, tweeting as #Dieux_oint, also commented, “You will be shocked that we speak and write better English than a lot of “yous”. You are highly misinformed. We speak English, and got educated in English. You have an ageing population and your benefits system already made a lot of people lazy.
Christian, who tweets as #omorogiec, wrote “Nigerians who barely speak English? Nigeria is an English-speaking country, right from Kindergarten up to University. Also, nothing less than 95% of Nigerians in UK care sectors are all degree holders. Immigrants aren’t your problem; quit scapegoating them.”
Yemi, who tweets as #yemitula, also commented, “English is Nigeria’s official language. You might not like our accent, but saying this about Nigerians makes you look ignorant.”
The trending debate comes amid intensifying scrutiny of the UK’s immigration policies.
PUNCH Online reports that the UK’s Immigration White Paper released on May 12, 2025, introduced a series of sweeping reforms aimed at tightening border controls and reducing immigration.
The new measures outlined restrictions on overseas care worker recruitment, higher skill and salary thresholds, and tougher rules on study, family, and asylum visas.
The major policy changes include the end of overseas social care recruitment, a post-study work visa period shortened from two years to 18 months, and broader English language requirements among others.
Former National Secretary of the defunct Social Democratic Party and ex-Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, has linked the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by the late MKO Abiola to the N45bn contract debt allegedly owed Abiola by the military government of the late Gen. Murtala Mohammed.
According to Lamido, the military refused to pay Abiola the debt after Gen. Mohammed’s died and when Abiola won the June 12, 1993 presidential election, they decided to annul it for fear that if sworn in as President, Abiola would recover the N45bn debt, a situation which might bankrupt the country at the time.
Lamido made the assertion on Tuesday in Abuja during the public presentation of his autobiography titled ‘Being True to Myself’.
He, therefore, called on President Bola Tinubu to pay Abiola’s family the alleged N45bn debt in order to bring closure to the June 12 saga.
Lamido said, “When (General) Murtala (Muhammed) died, Abiola came in with a claim that he was owed, I think, about N45bn for contracts executed by International Telephone and Telecommunication for the Ministry of Communications. The military high command at that time said no. He went round the Emirs in the North to lobby and the Emirs asked that they (military) should please pay the money.
“They (military) said they cancelled the June 12 elections because if they made him President, he would take his money and the country would become bankrupt. Those who were close to Abacha should know this, because Abacha was then one of the big shots; they were all aware.
“Before I end my remarks, I want to appeal to President Tinubu to finally close the chapter of June 12.
“In his book, General Ibrahim Babangida acknowledged that Abiola won the election. When I visited him, he also confirmed that Abiola is owed N45bn. He was doubly punished: first, denied the presidency; second, denied what is owed to him.”
Lamido urged the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris Malagi—who attended the event on behalf of President Tinubu—to convey the message to the President.
“Please tell the President to pay the Abiola family the N45bn. Once this is done, the June 12 chapter will be closed. It is very important,” he stressed.
Also speaking at the event, former President Olusegun Obasanjo emphasised that the work they started for Nigeria was not yet finished.
He called on Lamido and others not to retire, stating that it remained their responsibility to ensure Nigeria reaches its full potential.
“You (Lamido) are now a statesman. But Nigeria that we are working for, we haven’t got there. Our job is not finished until we are finished,” Obasanjo said.
Obasanjo praised Lamido’s service during his tenure as Foreign Affairs Minister, describing him as an effective diplomat who helped restore Nigeria’s international standing after years of isolation.
He recalled appointing Lamido after his original nominee declined and praised his loyalty, dedication, and performance.
In his remarks, President Tinubu—represented by the Minister of Information and Orientation—commended Lamido’s autobiography as an important contribution to Nigeria’s political literature.
He described Lamido as a principled opposition figure and reiterated the administration’s openness to constructive criticism.
The president’s representative highlighted the government’s ongoing economic reforms, acknowledging their difficulty but asserting that they are beginning to yield positive macroeconomic results.
He said the administration remains committed to national security, tax reform, and inclusive development.
“Are we where we want to be? No. But President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown uncommon audacity and vision to set Nigeria on the path of growth and development. We are now entering a phase of intended beneficial outcomes,” he said.
General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who served as chairman of the occasion, was represented by former INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega.
He encouraged more Nigerian leaders to document their experiences and contribute to a broader understanding of the country’s governance challenges and history.
“It is my hope that ‘Being True to Myself’ will inspire other actors and activists to write their own books. We all have a role to play in building a better Nigeria,” Jega said.
In his vote of thanks, Lamido expressed gratitude to the organising committee and attendees.
The event drew a large crowd of prominent political figures.
Among those present were former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar and Namadi Sambo; former Senate Presidents Ken Nnamani and Pius Ayim; former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi; and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Also in attendance were the Governors of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya; Jigawa State, Umar Namadi; and Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, alongside several former governors including Gabriel Suswam (Benue), Ahmed Makarfi (Kaduna), Babangida Aliyu (Niger), and Liyel Imoke (Cross River).
The Director-General of the Nigeria Safety and Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Alex Badeh, has confirmed that the United States National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) shared the final report on the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of former Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, Herbert Wigwe, his wife Doreen, their son Chizi, former NGX Group Chairman Abimbola Ogunbanjo, and two pilots.
Recall that the tragic crash occurred on February 9, 2024, when an Airbus EC130B4 helicopter operated by Orbic Air, LLC crashed near Halloran Springs, California.
In an interview with Punch, Badeh revealed that the NTSB provided the full report to the NSIB, which is a Nigerian government agency tasked with investigating aviation accidents.
The NTSB’s final report outlined the primary causes of the crash, identifying “pilot disorientation” and a violation of flight protocols as key contributors to the tragedy.
Specifically, the report pointed to the decision to proceed under visual flight rules in instrument meteorological conditions as a significant factor in the crash.
Badeh stated, “The NTSB shared the report directly with the NSIB as we are interested parties and in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 protocols.
“We do not necessarily comment on accident reports as they are not meant to apportion blame but to improve safety and prevent reoccurrence.”
When asked if the NSIB was satisfied with the findings in the NTSB report, Badeh emphasised that the NSIB does not engage in commenting on accident reports.
He clarified that the primary purpose of such reports is not to assign blame but to ensure that measures are put in place to enhance safety in the aviation sector.
“The report’s essence is to improve safety across the sector. The NSIB is not the head of aviation in Nigeria,” Badeh reiterated.
Badeh further confirmed that the family of the deceased had been in communication with the NTSB throughout the investigation process, from the time of the crash until the final report was released.
“The family of the deceased has been in contact with the NTSB at the time of the accident till the close of the investigation,” Badeh stated.
Members of the Osun State House of Assembly have unanimously passed a vote of confidence, endorsing Governor Ademola Adeleke for a second term ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election in the state.
The motion for the vote of confidence was initiated by Adewumi Adeyemi, representing the Obokun State Constituency and seconded by Taofiq Olayiwola from Ede South State Constituency.
The endorsement was made during a plenary session on Tuesday, where the 26-member Assembly, comprised of 25 members from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and one from the All Progressives Congress, APC, expressed their full support for the governor.
Presiding over the session, Speaker, Adewale Egbedun praised the governor’s achievements in celebration of his 65th birthday.
He commended the governor for his dedication to the development of Osun State, highlighting his impactful governance and commitment to his five-point agenda.
The Speaker emphasised that the lawmakers, as representatives of the people, took pride in the governor’s leadership and urged him to continue striving for even greater accomplishments.
While inviting his colleagues to share their thoughts on the endorsement, Simeon Popoola, representing the Boripe-Boluwaduro State Constituency, delivered a heartfelt tribute to the governor, praising his integrity and genuine nature.
He said, “Politics aside, Mr Governor is a plain-minded personality, loving and genuine. These attributes have greatly assisted him in his performance.”
Following the motion, the Speaker called for a vote, which the chamber upheld.
A Kano State High Court on Tuesday dismissed a motion filed by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear the 11-count corruption charge brought against him and seven others.
The ruling was delivered by Justice Amina Adamu Aliyu, who declared that the preliminary objections raised by Ganduje and his co-defendants were “incompetent” and lacked merit.
Justice Aliyu, presiding over the case, confirmed that the court had the authority to hear the charges, which include allegations of bribery, conspiracy, misappropriation, and diversion of public funds amounting to billions of naira.
The judge emphasised the legitimacy of the case, stating, “The charges before this court are competent. The power to investigate criminal matters does not reside solely with the police. The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission is equally empowered under the law.”
In a critical move, the judge ruled that the trial would continue even in the absence of Ganduje and the other six defendants.
Furthermore, she summoned Lamash Properties Limited, the sixth defendant in the case, and adjourned the proceedings to July 30 and 31 for further hearing.
The accused include Ganduje’s wife, Prof. Hafsat Umar, as well as other individuals and companies, including Abubakar Bawuro, Umar Abdullahi Umar, Jibrilla Muhammad, Safari Textiles Limited, Lasage General Enterprises Limited, and Lamash Properties Limited.
Their involvement in the alleged corruption case is under intense scrutiny, with each facing allegations linked to the mismanagement of public funds.
In response to the preliminary objections, Adeola Adedipe, SAN, counsel for the state, urged the court to dismiss all applications filed by the defense, describing them as “deliberate attempts to frustrate the trial.”
Adedipe argued that the objections lacked legal foundation and called for the court to proceed with the case and allow justice to take its full course.
Ganduje’s legal team, led by Lydia Oluwakemi Oyewo, had filed a preliminary objection on November 18, 2024, seeking to quash the charges and halt the trial, citing the lack of jurisdiction by the court.
Similar motions were filed by counsels for the third, fifth, sixth, and eighth defendants—Chief M. N. Duru, Mr. Muhammad Shehu, Mr. Abubakar Ahmad, and Mr. Faruk Asekome—between September and October 2024, all challenging the legitimacy of the charges and the competence of the court.
Despite the objections, Justice Aliyu ruled that “None of the applications have merit. The case must proceed in line with due process.”
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has fueled speculation about a possible defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Naija News reports that Governor Eno, on Sunday, revealed that he is unsure about his future political platform but remains committed to serving the people regardless of their party affiliation.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving Service organised in his honour at The Apostolic Church, Maboju Assembly in Lagos on Sunday, Governor Eno assured his supporters that his core focus would remain on uniting and connecting with the people of Akwa Ibom State, regardless of his political party.
“I don’t know where I’ll be tomorrow, whether PDP, APC, or YPP,” Governor Eno stated, referencing some of the major political parties in Nigeria. He emphasised that party affiliation should not define his leadership approach.
“These are just for political convenience and enlightened state interest. But it will never define who I am,” he added.
Despite his comments, the governor clarified that he was not announcing a departure from his current party. “I will remain a governor connected to the people, regardless of party. I will continue to unite all our parties, regardless of where God will take me to. That is not to say I am going anywhere,” Eno stressed.
The governor then drew inspiration from a popular Christian hymn, complementing his statement with the lyrics, “Oh, the future lies before me,” which he sang along with the congregation.
The hymn, drawn from the Bible verse James 4:14, expresses uncertainty about the future while seeking divine guidance.
“Oh, the future lies before me, and I know not where I’ll be, but where’er my path be leading, Saviour, keep my heart with thee,” he sang.
Governor Eno went on to encourage the people not to fear, advising them to understand the political landscape as it evolves. Citing the biblical sons of Issachar, who were known for their wisdom and ability to discern the times, Eno urged the congregation to be aware of the changing seasons in politics.
“There is no need to be scared. Those of you in politics know that there are no two elections that are the same. People must always understand,” Eno said, quoting the children of Issachar who were reputed for understanding their times and seasons.
He added, “We must clearly understand the time and seasons so that we do not swim against the tide.”
The governor concluded his speech by urging everyone to be open to spiritual wisdom, echoing the phrase, “He that has ears, let him hear what the spirit says to the church.”
UK Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has launched a sharp rebuke of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour-led government, demanding urgent action on immigration through the adoption of the Conservatives’ proposed Deportation Bill.
In a video message posted to her official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, Badenoch noted that the changes being proposed is far off the desired change on immigration.
“I think Labours are taking us for a fool. Quite frankly, they are taking us for fools. This is nowhere near the scale of the change we need to see,” she said in the strongly worded address.
Badenoch criticised Labour’s immigration policies as inadequate and contradictory, arguing that the government is opposing reforms it now claims to support.
“Many of the things he was announcing are part of the things they are voting against right now. I’m talking about putting serious things into legislation, like a cap on the number of people coming into the country,” she stated.
She stressed the need for “systemic change” and cited measures such as disapplying the Human Rights Act and extending the path to citizenship.
“Take indefinite leave to remain, we wanted it to be 15 years: it’s too quick the rate at which people get British citizenship. He’s watered that down to 10 years and again kicked it into the long grass,” she said.
Badenoch also pointed to pressure on public infrastructure as evidence of a system in crisis.
“The fact of the matter is that public services are being strained. There’s not enough housings, people can’t get GP appointments,” she added.
Reinforcing her stance in a written post on X, Badenoch wrote: “Labour have blocked every serious step to stop illegal and legal migration. Today’s vague promises come with no plan and no timetable. Our Deportation Bill is tougher and ready to deliver. They should stop taking the public for fools and back it.”
Media
Labour have blocked every serious step to stop illegal and legal migration. Today’s vague promises come with no plan and no timetable.
— Kemi Badenoch (@KemiBadenoch) May 12, 2025
Our Deportation Bill is tougher and ready to deliver. They should stop taking the public for fools and back it. pic.twitter.com/ENFdEvGD54
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo stated that Nigeria’s leaders’ objectives have not been accomplished, emphasising that their work in the country remains unfinished.
The former President made this remark at the ongoing public presentation of former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido’s autobiography, “Being True to Myself”, held at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja.
Obasanjo, who encouraged Lamido and others not to retire yet, stated that it is their duty to ensure Nigeria reaches its desired destination.
He said, “Nigeria that we are working for, we haven’t gotten there. And I believe it is the responsibility of each of us to ensure that we get there.
“Our job is not finished until we are finished.”
Details shortly…
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The World Bank says the petrol subsidy removal has not fully translated into expected revenue gains for Nigeria, as only half of the proceeds are being remitted by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.
Alex Sienaert, the World Bank’s lead economist for Nigeria, spoke on Monday during the launch of the May 2025 Nigeria Development Update (NDU) in Abuja.
On May 29, President Bola Tinubu said the petrol subsidy regime was over.
Three months later, TheCable reported that Tinubu was considering a “temporary subsidy” on petrol as crude oil prices and foreign exchange (FX) rates soared.
Although the federal government had consistently denied the return of petrol subsidy, the NNPC, on August 19, said the federal government owes it N7.8 trillion for under-recovery.
Speaking at the event, Sienaert said NNPC started using the official FX rate for transactions in October 2024, marking the end of implicit subsidies.
“Other things to keep an eye on at present include the good news, of course, that the PMS subsidy was effectively ended last October, but revenue gains from this are yet to fully flow to the federation,” he said.
“NNPC began applying the official exchange rates for all its kind of transactions and fiscal revenue calculations back in October, so no more implicit subsidy.
“But as of January, NNPC was still only transferring about half of the resulting revenue gains from the subsidy elimination to the federation, and that’s because of arrears and counter-arrears and what have you.
“It’s just going to be important in the coming months to keep tracking this, and ultimately that all revenue gains from the difficult job of eliminating the subsidy do flow to the federation, so that that can support a continued healthy fiscal picture, and in turn stand in on the government priorities for Nigeria.”
‘2025 BUDGET AMBITIOUS… REVENUE TARGETS HARD TO MEET’
The World Bank said Nigeria’s 2025 budget is ambitious and may face difficulty achieving its revenue targets.
Sienaert said key assumptions such as daily oil production of 2.1 million barrels and an average crude price of $75 may be too optimistic.
“Even with the very positive revenue sort of tailwind that I described, it looks like it’s going to be pretty hard to meet some of the ambitious revenue targets that are in there,” he said.
The World Bank official warned that failure to meet revenue expectations may lead to increased borrowing or renewed deficit financing through ways and means, which the government had pledged to avoid.
“If the financing requirements exceed what’s budgeted, then that’s either going to create arrears, pressures, which is not healthy for the public finances or the economy, or it could renew risks of recourse to things like deficit monetisation under large-scale ways and means,” he said.
“The authorities have been very clear that they will by no means be going back to large-scale use of ways and means. But were that to happen, it would be extremely destructive to the whole rebuilding of confidence in fiscal sustainability and in the naira, ultimately.”
‘POLICY CHANGES HAS INCREASED COST OF LIVING’
Sienaert said reforms such as subsidy removal have increased the cost of living, particularly affecting vulnerable households, while stressing the need for social support to ease the effects.
He stressed the need to provide as much support as possible to the poorest and the most economically at-risk households.
“Although this government does have an ambitious targeted cash transfer programme, N25,000 a month for three months for 15 million recipients, the implementation has just been quite slow; so only about a third of those recipients have received transfers so far,” he said.
Sienaert said the programme is now being scaled up and implemented more rapidly, which he described as essential to ensuring broader relief.
The World Bank official also noted improvements in fiscal and monetary policies, including unified exchange rates, tighter monetary controls, increased transparency, and the government’s resolve not to monetise its deficit.
In the May 2025 NDU, the global bank also said Nigeria must accelerate economic growth and create more jobs to become a $1 trillion economy by 2030.
‘ELECTRICITY SUBSIDY IS WASTEFUL’
The lead economist called for the removal of electricity subsidy in the power sector, saying it wasteful and regressive.
“There is still one kind of wasteful, regressive subsidy, which is the electricity subsidy, so work to address that,” he said.
He added that progress is being made in boosting non-oil revenues through tax reforms and new legislation, while oil revenue transparency has also improved.
Sienaert acknowledged recent progress in budget credibility, particularly through better assumptions and detailed disclosures, but said further work is needed to cut the cost of governance and improve the budget process.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) had said the federal government incurred an electricity subsidy obligation of N471.69 billion in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2024.
Five former members of the Lagos State House of Assembly have failed to clinch the All Progressives Congress (APC) local government chairmanship tickets ahead of the July 12, 2025, elections.
The lawmakers, including Rotimi Olowo (Somolu LGA), Yinka Ogundimu (Agege LGA), Hakeem Sokunle (Oshodi-Isolo LGA), Fatai Oluwa (Ajeromi/Ifelodun LGA), and Avoseh (Badagry LG), were unsuccessful in securing the party’s nomination.
The party held its primary elections last Saturday at its secretariat on Acme Road, Ikeja, where candidates for the 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos were selected.
The local government elections will be held across the state on Saturday, July 12.
Kosofe LGA Chairman, Moyosore Ogunlewe, emerged victorious in the primary, securing a second term ticket after other candidates withdrew in his favour. Ogunlewe’s unopposed win signified a strong endorsement from party members in the area.
Among the other successful candidates, Lawal Jakande, son of the late former Lagos State Governor, Lateef Jakande, won the Odi-Olowo ticket.
Usman Hamzat, the current chairman of Ifako-Ijaiye LGA, also secured his nomination for re-election, paving the way for his participation in the upcoming local government elections.
Full List of Local Government Candidates
Olalekan Aroyewu (Igbogbo)
Rossini Oluyemisi (Ojokoro)
Akindipe Olamilekan (Ajeromi-Ifelodun)
Okeowo Oluremi (Ifelodun)
Yusuf Sule (Surulere)
Ogidan Azeez (Coker-Aguda)
Tola Oyedele (Agboyi-Ketu)
Taoheed Taiwo (Ejigbo)
Muibi Alade (Lagos Island-East)
Sanusi Ismail (Amuwo-Odofin)
Rufai Muibat (Ojo)
Taiwo Oyekan (Lagos Island)
Wale Ameen (Ikorodu-North)
Samsideen Agunbiade (Eti-Osa East)
Other notable winners include:
Hunkpe Babatunde (Badagry)
Sura Animashaun (Epe)
Olasoju Adebayo Babatunde (Isolo)
Sesan Olowa (Ibeju-Lekki)
Anomo Adewale (Ikosi-Ejirin)
Ibrahim Rauf (Badagry-West)
Ladega Adedayo (Ikorodu)
Rasak Oloyede (Oriade)
Abiodun Akinola (Orile-Agege)
Ashimi Lateef (Shomolu)
Bada Abolanle (Ikosi-Isheri)
Oloyede Kehinde (Oshodi-Isolo)
Sunday Benson (Imota)
Kazeem Sulaimon (Ikorodu-West)
Sebanjo Idowu (Apapa)
Ajose Peter (Olorunda LCDA)
Ismail Monsuru (Eredo)
Opeyemi Akindele (Mosan-Okunola)
Agbaje Abiodun (Ayobo-Ipaja)
Akinpelu Ibrahim (Alimosho)
Jimoh Olawale Saliu (Apapa-Iganmu)
Bukola Omofe (Bariga)
Aruwe Tubosun (Mushin)
Olusegun Odumbaku (Ojodu)
Balogun Idris (Egbe-Idimu)
Akinsanya (Igando-Ikotun)
Hakeem Dauda (Ikeja)
Moyo Adebanjo (Onigbongbo)
Tunde Azeez (Agege)
Akinpelu Ibrahim (Alimosho)
Omooba Adeola (Eti-Osa)
Amid the crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, a former Governor of Benue State, Gabriel Suswam, has suggested that the party is in Intensive Care Unit, ICU.
Suswan claimed that many people are waiting to see the ultimate end of the party.
He stated this on Tuesday while fielding questions on Arise Television’s Morning Show programme.
The statement comes a few days after the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike made a surprise appearance at the party’s high-stakes expanded Governors’ Forum meeting in Abuja.
Wike’s appearance marks his first attendance of a PDP function in months amid heightened tensions and defections rocking the opposition Party.
However, the Ex-governor said it was incumbent upon the governors elected on the platform of the PDP to ensure that the party is rescued.
He said: “It is incumbent upon the PDP governors to ensure that the party is rescued. Many people are waiting to see the ultimate end of the party. Whether there will be light at the end of the tunnel through the intervention of Sen. Saraki remains to be seen in the coming days. For now, the PDP is in the hospital, currently in the ICU, but it can be saved if the proper medicines are taken.”
Dangote Refinery: Marketers, retailers project petrol pump price to drop below N900/litre nationwide
AFOLABI
Petroleum marketers and retailers said Dangote Refinery’s latest premium motor spirit ex-depot price reduction on Monday would lead to a retail price drop across filling stations nationwide.
DAILY POST reports that on Monday, the 650,000 barrels per day refinery based in Lekki, Lagos State, offered customers a N10 refund on PMS bought at N835 per litre.
The N10 refund was confirmed by the National Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria and the National President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria, Billy Gillis-Harry, on Monday in separate interviews.
The latest drop in gantry price of Dangote petrol implies that the refinery’s partnering filling stations, such as MRS, AP (Ardova), Heyden, Optima Energy, Hyde, and Techno Oil filling stations, would adjust their petrol pumps in the coming days.
DAILY POST gathered that MRS and other partnering filling stations with Dangote Refinery currently sell their petrol at N910 per litre as of Monday evening.
A staff member of MRS fillings along Kubwa Expressway, Abuja, told DAILY POST correspondent that the petrol outlet would review downward its fuel pump at N900 per litre between Wednesday and Thursday this week.
“We would start selling our petrol at a new price of N900 per litre between Wednesday and Thursday,” he told DAILY POST anonymously.
An impeccable source at NNPCL, who preferred anonymity said the state-owned firm may further relax its petrol price to around N880 or N900 per litre in the coming days.
Efforts to contact Dangote Group’s spokesperson, Anthony Chiejiena to speak on the fresh petrol price review were unsuccessful as of the time of filing the report.
Meanwhile, DAILY POST reports Dangote Refinery has reduced its petrol price at least three times since the Federal Government, through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, renewed its naira-for-crude deal with the $20 billion refinery on April 9.
On April 10, the refinery dropped the ex-depot petrol price to N865 per litre from N880.
Days after, Dangote Refinery announced a second petrol price reduction to N835 per litre from N865.
Thereafter, the refinery’s latest price dropped to N825.
Reacting, IPMAN National Secretary, James Tor said the petrol price reviews have become common following the deregulation of the country’s downstream petroleum sector.
According to him, a reduction in Dangote refinery petrol prices is most likely to have a ripple effect across the market.
“Our members are used to price reduction; this is because the prices of premium motor spirits are determined by market forces since we have accepted deregulation of the sector.
“We buy from MRS, NIPCO, NNPC, and others, so if there is a decrease in PMS price at their end, it will cut across,” he told DAILY POST.
Speaking on the partnership between NNPCL’s new management, led by Bayo Ojulari, and the Dangote Group, he said it would stabilise the country’s petrol market.
“It will stabilise the downstream petroleum market. It means that the industry will have a sense of direction,” he added.
Also, PETROAN’s president, Gillis-Harry, lamented the continued petrol price instability as a result of Dangote Refinery’s incessant price cuts.
Meanwhile, he said the petrol price would be reviewed downwards across the board in response to Dangote Refinery’s latest price cut.
“The thing is that the constant up-and-down movement of petrol prices really needs to be paid attention to.
“The stability of the industry is based on consistent prices. I don’t think the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) is saying we just wake up and see the new price.
“Probably, it is a strategy to have the biggest market share. Even at that, there must be capital to be able to buy products.
“Certainly, there will be a change in the prices of PMS across the board. But this is artificial. That is the challenge.
“We should allow the market forces to determine prices. There is a style of business that is aimed at capturing the market with heavy investment.
“PETROAN welcomes the relationship and applauds it, provided it will make Nigeria better and boost the access to energy,” he told DAILY POST.
The development comes as the price of Brent and WTI crude blends fell to $64.72 and $61.72 as of 3:47 am on Tuesday morning, according to oilprice.com.
Recall that last week, Dangote Group president, Aliko Dangote and his team visited the new management of NNPCL.