Category: The Nation – Nigeria

Chief Technical Adviser to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Bolade Eyinla, said statistics of Nigerians who turn out to vote have continued to be on the decline, saying an election in which less than 50% of registered voters comes out is tainted by a shadow of legitimacy.

Speaking at the YIAGA Africa 2027 elections scenarios and election manipulation risk in red retreat in Abuja, Prof Eyinla said that available data shows the voter turnout in the presidential elections since 2011 are as follows: 2011-53.7%; 2015-43.6%; 2019 -34.7% and 2023-26.7%.

He said: ‘One major reason adduced for this declining voter turnout are that the introduction of technology for voter authentication and accreditation (SCR in 2015 and BVAS in 2023) made double/multiple voting and ballot box stuffing more difficult, thereby reducing the number of votes cast in relation to the number of registered voters, which some believed is over bloated.

‘Other reasons include voter apathy as a result of evident lack of the dividends of democracy, loss of trust by citizens in the electoral process premised on the believe that their votes do not count or unwillingness, especially among the elite to suffer the inconveniences of voting.

‘Irrespective of the reason(s) for this situation, the percentage of voters turning out to exercise their franchise on Election Day should be a matter of concern to all electoral stakeholders and citizens.

‘Although the electoral system is based on first past the post, an election in which less than 50% of registered voters comes out to vote is tainted by a shadow of legitimacy. It is therefore imperative for INEC to provide votes with pleasant voting experience by removing all known barriers to the ballot box and all stakeholders to up the ante in voter education,sensitisation and mobilisation.’

According to him, any talk of reviewing the process of appointing the Chairman, National and Resident Electoral Commissioners of INEC by removing the power of appointment from the President under the prevailing circumstances is not feasible before the 2027 general elections in view of the tedious process of altering any of the provisions in the Constitution.

He explained that after a review of the 2023 general election, 142 recommendations were made for improving the electoral process, adding that the Commission has taken necessary steps to implement

some of the recommendations arising from the review that requires administrative

action.

He said further the Commission has formulated its position on the recommendations that requires tinkering with the electoral legal framework and submitted same to the National Assembly for consideration.

According to him: ‘It is another matter entirely if the Assembly will act expeditiously and do the needful, especially in regard to such important issues as early voting for election officials, security personnel, accredited observers and journalist on election duty, review of Section 47(1)of the Electoral Act 2022 on the presentation of PVC as a requirement to vote and making electronic transmission of results mandatory.

‘When it is considered that elections are governed by law, the National Assembly must speedily consider the proposed amendment to the legal framework and amend the Electoral Act 2022 or enact a new Electoral Act before the release of the timetable and schedule of activities one year to the election, that is in February 2026.

‘This is to ensure certainty in the electoral legal framework that will govern the election, guide the actions and activities of the Commission and all electoral stakeholders, especially the political parties in the conduct of party primaries and nomination of candidates.

‘It will also enable INEC to quickly review its regulations,guidelines and manuals in line with any amendment or provisions in the amended or new Act.’

He said the Commission is also engaging with relevant stakeholders to implement the 48 other recommendations from the review of the 2023 general elections, saying the ‘implementation of these recommendation will require action by key actors in the electoral process including the judiciary, security and law enforcement agencies, political parties, regulatory agencies, the media and civil society organisations.’

The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) on Thursday joined the rest of the world to mark the 2025 World Post Day with a colourful celebration in Enugu.

The service also reaffirmed its commitment to connecting communities and enhancing service delivery across Nigeria.

The event, which featured a march by postal workers from Frie Service to New Haven, Ogui Road and other parts of the Enugu metropolis, brought together postal officials, partners, and members of the public.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Enugu State Postal Manager, Dr. Chris Uzoma Ashiedu, said this year’s theme, ‘#PostForPeople: Local Service, Global Reach,’ underscores the post’s role in linking local communities to the global network of communication and commerce.

Ashiedu explained that World Post Day, celebrated annually on October 9, commemorates the founding of the Universal Postal Union (UPU), the United Nations agency that regulates postal operations worldwide.

He said the celebration serves as a reminder of the post’s contributions to social and economic development, while recognizing the dedication of postal workers who keep the network running efficiently.

Highlighting recent achievements under the Postmaster-General, Ms. Tola Odeyemi, Ashiedu noted that NIPOST had exceeded ?10 billion in revenue, digitalized operations to improve service delivery, and signed partnerships with organizations such as SMEDAN to reduce logistics costs and support small businesses.

He assured that NIPOST would cont?inue to innovate and expand its services – from mail and courier delivery to financial services and the National Addressing System – to better serve Nigerians.

‘NIPOST remains committed to bridging geographical divides and fostering global unity through efficient postal services,’ Ashiedu said.

Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Executive Governor of Ogun State, has navigated a tumultuous political landscape on his journey to govern. Much like the biblical David, he has faced numerous challenges and adversaries, ultimately emerging victorious, particularly during his re-election campaign. Demonstrating unwavering resilience akin to that of a wounded lion, Abiodun’s determination and tenacity were rewarded as providence smiled upon him, fulfilling his ambition for a second term. Today, he celebrates his accomplishments; his heart swells with gratitude, and he dances with the joy reminiscent of David’s biblical celebrations.

Equipped with a strong background as a seasoned businessman and an oil and gas mogul, Abiodun entered the murky waters of politics with an entrepreneurial mindset. This background has been instrumental in transforming Ogun State into a more attractive investment hub, positioning it as the nation’s industrial heartland. His administration’s focus on creating an environment conducive to business has drawn millions of investors, facilitating job creation and enabling the government to generate substantial income from these investments.

Under Governor Abiodun’s leadership, Ogun State has experienced remarkable growth, marked by significant infrastructural advancements across various sectors, including roads, education, agriculture, industrialization, security, job creation, housing development, and women empowerment. His commitment to public service extends to the welfare of civil servants, ensuring that they are supported and motivated. Abiodun’s tireless efforts have made Ogun State a beacon of prosperity, establishing it as a safe haven for both residents and investors alike.

Unlike many of his gubernatorial peers who view a second term as an opportunity to coast on their previous successes, Abiodun remains deeply committed to furthering Ogun State’s development.

Within just two years of his second tenure, he has surpassed expectations and set a new benchmark for achievement. His initiatives have not only transformed the state but have also garnered praise from pundits who note his exceptional performance against the backdrop of his first term.

Abiodun’s strategic vision to position Ogun as the preferred destination for investors is complemented by policies aimed at streamlining operations. The ‘ease of doing business’ initiative has received accolades from manufacturers, who appreciate the incentives and expedited approvals that facilitate their ventures. One of the highlights of his tenure is the recent inauguration of the Ogun Agro Cargo Airport, which offers a direct flight route to Abuja via ValueJet. This development is poised to be a game-changer, significantly reducing travel time and improving accessibility for residents and businesses.

As Governor Abiodun continues to deliver on his promises, he effectively silences critics and skeptics alike by demonstrating the tangible benefits of his governance. The dividends of democracy are being realized under his stewardship, and as he strides confidently forward, there is growing consensus that he may indeed be one of the most impactful governors in Ogun State’s history.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested 12 notorious armed robbers believed to be responsible for the death of an Arise TV staff, Ms. Somtochukwu Christella Maduagwu, and a security guard, Mr. Barnabas Danlami.

The incident occurred during a robbery incident at Unique Apartment, Gishiri Village, Katampe District, Abuja.

Recall, President Bola Tinubu directed security agencies to fish out the killers.

According to a police internal report sighted by our correspondent, it was gathered that the suspects, arrested by operatives of the Scorpion Squad led by ACP Victor O. Godfrey, were tracked through actionable digital and reconstructive intelligence, following a directive by the Commissioner of Police, FCT, to fish out the culprits.

The robbery occurred on September 29, at about 3:30 a.m.

The arrested suspects include: Shamsudeen Hassan, from Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State; Hassan Isah, 22, from Zaria, Kaduna State; Abubakar Alkamu (a.k.a. Abba), 27, from Musawa LGA, Katsina State; Sani Sirajo (a.k.a. Dan Borume), 20, from Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State; Mashkur Jamili (a.k.a. Abba), 28, from Igabi LGA, Kaduna State; Suleiman Badamasi (a.k.a. Dan-Sule), 21, from Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State; Abdulsalam Saleh (a.k.a. Na-Durudu), from Katsina LGA, Katsina State; Zaharadeen Muhammad (a.k.a. Gwaska), 23, from Chikun LGA, Kaduna State and Musa Adamu (a.k.a. Musa Hassan), 30, from Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State.

Others are Sumayya Mohammed (a.k.a. Baby), 27, from Sammaka LGA, Kaduna State; Isah Abdulrahman (a.k.a. Abbati), 25, from Zaria LGA, Kaduna State; and Musa Umar (a.k.a. Small), 31, from Maiduguri LGA, Borno State.

Police sources said four of the suspects Shamsudeen, Hassan, Alkamu and Sirajo were initially apprehended shortly after the robbery and confessed to their involvement.

During interrogation, police said Shamsudeen admitted shooting the security guard, Barnabas Danlami, when he tried to stop them from entering the premises, while Sirajo confessed that he tried to hold Maduagwu as she fell from the third floor but was overwhelmed by her weight.

Shamsudeen further confessed that he drove away the victims’ white Honda CR-V after the operation.

The suspects revealed that they each received N200,000 from the proceeds of the crime.

Recovered exhibits from the gang include one fabricated AK-47 rifle, 36 rounds of 9mm live ammunition, one locally-made pistol, one pump-action gun, two live cartridges, four mobile phones, two sharp knives, one cutlass, and nine torchlights used during the operation.

The police said further arrests were made on October 8, when operatives acting on intelligence intercepted three of the gang members including Musa Umar and Hassan Isah while on their way to another planned armed robbery operation in Maitama.

The report said all the suspects are in custody and have reportedly confessed to the crimes.

Sources said that Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, commended the Scorpion Squad for their swift action and assured residents that the command would sustain its aggressive operations to rid the FCT of violent criminals.

Residents of Abuja, police advised to be vigilant and report any suspicious incident.

When contacted to confirm the report, the Federal Capital Territory (FTC) Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said she is yet to confirm the report, adding that she will react soon.

Chairman of Badagry Local Government in Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Hunpe, has said the council will unveil a comprehensive tourism calendar to showcase the town’s rich cultural and historical heritage to the world.

Hunpe told reporters in Badagry that a committee had been inaugurated to identify and compile tourism events in the coastal community, for proper documentation and projection.

He said the council would begin monthly promotion of events to woo local and international investors.

‘It will also boost the socio-economic activities of the community and increase government revenue earnings,’ he added.

The chairman said the initiative was part of efforts to reposition Badagry as a global tourism hub, considering its significance in Nigeria’s slave trade history, culture and eco-tourism attractions.

He said the council would partner with the state government, private sector stakeholders and traditional institutions to ensure the sustainability and international recognition of the calendar.

Hunpe said security agencies would also be involved to guarantee the safety of visitors and investors, stressing peace and security were vital to tourism growth.

He urged residents to embrace the initiative by supporting tourism activities and preserving historical monuments, noting community participation would make the project a success.

?Africa’s creative minds in gaming, animation and immersive technology gathered in Lagos last week for Gamathon 2025.

The week-long convention, according to the organisers, aimed at accelerating collaboration and investment in the continent’s fast-growing digital creative sector.

Hosted by Africacomicade, the sixth edition of the event ran from September 29 to October 4 and served as the grand finale of regional tours held earlier in Kenya, Ghana and South Africa.

The event featured exhibitions, masterclasses and investment sessions designed to strengthen the creative technology ecosystem.

Speaking on this year’s theme, ‘Bridge’, founder of Africacomicade, Michael Oscar said it focused on connecting creative ecosystems across Africa to drive innovation, youth empowerment and economic growth.

‘Gamathon Nigeria represents the merging of ideas and innovation from across Africa. We’re building bridges between creators, investors and governments to ensure that young Africans are not just players but creators in the global gaming industry,’ Oscar said.

Throughout the six-day event, participants explored topics ranging from intellectual property and gamification to entrepreneurship and innovation. The ARC Pitch Competition, which offered a $2,000 prize pool for PC and mobile game developers, gave studios a platform to present their projects to investors and publishers.

According to co-founder and VR developer, Oluwatosin Ogunyebi, the event reflected the growing unity within the creative tech space.

‘When we started, many people didn’t even know each other. Now, we see collaboration and co-creation happening across borders,’ he said.

Ogunyebi added that Gamathon will now be held every two years, allowing more time for creators to develop and polish their projects. ‘Game development takes time. The new schedule means that by 2027, we’ll see finished, world-class products rather than demos,’ he explained.

Founder of Deluxe Creation Studios, Edu Shola and other industry stakeholders also used the event to call for stronger government engagement. They emphasized the need for a formal industry association to help creatives access policy support and funding.

They disclosed that some ministries are already funding creative projects through phased grants of up to $800,000, but urged broader collaboration to sustain growth.

The conference was supported by the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, the Lagos State Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology and corporate partners including UNDP, Providus Bank, Sanlam Allianz, and MSI.

This week has been Customer Service Week across the world, and as always, it is a time to celebrate customers and appreciate those who serve them. At the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the celebration has been full of colour, excitement, and unity. From themed dress days to fun activities, staff across the country took time to appreciate the people who make their work meaningful, the taxpayers.

But beyond the glamour and celebration, this year’s Customer Service Week has given everyone at FIRS another reason to reflect on the kind of leadership the agency has been blessed with. Since Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman, came on board, he has shown that leadership is not just about policy but about people, and when I say people, I mean the people of Nigeria. He has brought a human touch to tax administration and changed the way many Nigerians perceive the agency.

Today, FIRS is not just an agency collecting taxes across Nigeria; it is a people-driven institution that listens, understands, and responds. Through innovations such as the TaxProMax platform, electronic invoicing, and an active online presence, people and businesses can now file returns, make payments, or access information with ease.

Every transaction is secured and verifiable through a unique Invoice Reference Number and QR code, while taxpayers without internet access can conveniently use the *829# USSD code to retrieve their TIN, verify tax clearance certificates, locate nearby offices, or make quick inquiries. It is now easy for anyone to pay taxes or ask questions, as FIRS experts are always ready to assist through the website, social media, or call centers.

The Tax Boss is a man who knows his onions and leads with direction and purpose. FIRS has built a strong culture of courtesy and service excellence. Staff are reminded that taxpayers are partners in progress and that respect, fairness, and timely service are necessary to good governance.

This change has increased public trust and strengthened the agency’s reputation as a responsive institution. Today, if you ask ten Nigerians, nine will tell you they now understand taxes better and why they are important. We have never had it this good.

His calm confidence, intelligence, and people-first approach have changed the atmosphere within the Agency. Staff now take pride in serving, knowing that their work makes life easier for millions. Taxpayers, too, are beginning to see FIRS differently, not as a burden, but as an institution they can trust.

As this year’s Customer Service Week comes to an end, with the theme ‘Mission: Possible,’ Nigerians can agree that Dr. Zacch has made it more than just a theme; he has made it our reality. He has shown that change is possible in public service. He leads by example, puts people first, and ensures that FIRS has become a true model of what responsive governance should look like.

At the end of the day, Dr. Zacch is a tactical leader whose results speak louder than words. What he has built at FIRS tells its own story. It is a system that works, a team that serves, and a nation that believes again. Nigerians can now see that the mission is truly possible.

Happy Customer Service Week to the Tax Boss, the entire FIRS team, and the ever-supportive taxpayers across Nigeria. Together, we keep building a better country for everyone.

The Federal Government has launched the National Digital Trustmark for online companies.

The initiative is in collaboration with key government institutions, like the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

The trustmark is expected to curb online fraud, identity theft, scamming and forgery, as well as ensure trust, competitiveness, integrity, and confidence in Nigeria’s online and digital business platforms.

The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Malam Kashifu Inuwa, announced this while addressing reporters yesterday in Abuja.

Inuwa said the establishment of the National Digital Trustmark had become imperative due to the concerns being generated globally over online and e-commerce business activities with Nigerians and in Nigeria.

The NITDA boss said it was saddening for Nigerians to be classified as scammers and fraudsters, especially in how online businesses are conducted.

He said there were times citizens made payments for goods online and were blocked thereafter, or in cases where citizens purchased goods or services online and were not delivered according to specifications.

Inuwa said the National Digital Trustmark is being facilitated by the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ) and the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (NACIMMA) to handle the challenges in the sector.

He explained that it would come in the form of a security seal granted by NITDA for certification and authentication of online or digital business outfits.

A security seal, Inuwa explained, would be embossed on the platforms, letterheads and pages for authentication and identification as true registered companies or entities operating in Nigeria with at least one known office.

He announced that the initiative, though not compulsory, would come with charges depending on the size of the business entities and their areas of specialisations, while the portal would be open next for outfits to commence registration.

Inuwa told the media briefing, which was attended by the president of NACIMMA, Tijani Ibrahim, and a representative of GIZ, Chinedu, that the renewal of the Trustmark digital certification would be done yearly to ensure transparency and accountability of the process.

The NITDA boss said both the public and private sectors with online businesses would be eligible for the security seal.

He added that the initiative would eliminate fraud, scams, and illicit transactions in the Nigerian digital space.

Inuwa regretted that online fraud has given Nigeria a bad name on the global stage, stressing that this happened even when it had been established that some foreign nationals were behind some of the fraud.

NACCIMA President Ibrahim, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Digital Economy Trade Group, Mr. Suleiman A. Audu, said the production of the seal marked a major step towards building a safer, more trusted, and globally competitive digital economy for Nigeria.

He said NACIMMA, in collaboration with other stakeholders, especially SMEDAN, NAFDAC, SON, among others, would ensure seamless implementation of the policy without bureaucratic bottlenecks and other impediments.

Chinedu said the seal was being used in Rwanda and other countries to curb cyber fraud, identity theft and mismanagement of companies’ data and other information.

National APC Women Advocacy Organisation (NAWA-ORG) has appointed Dr. Adejare Adegbenro as Southwest zonal patron, recognising his contributions to humanitarian service, cultural diplomacy, and national development.

The appointment, contained in a letter signed by National Executive Council, was described as a reflection of Adegbenro’s leadership and commitment to public service.

Adegbenro, through Otunba Adejare Adegbenro Foundation, has championed life-changing initiatives, including free medical outreach, eye-care programmes, clean water projects, feeding schemes, and educational scholarships. These projects, the organisation noted, have brought hope and relief to thousands, demonstrating that ‘true leadership is measured by the lives touched rather than titles or possessions.’

Beyond philanthropy, Adegbenro has distinguished himself as a global diplomat and cultural advocate, promoting peace, cooperation, and African excellence. As a Country director to UK for the International Society of Diplomats, he has amplified Nigeria’s voice abroad. His work with Ceci Educare Oy in Finland further bridges education, culture, and business on continents.

NAWA-ORG, a female-led political and humanitarian thinktank affiliated with All Progressives Congress, commits to advancing socio-economic development, empowering communities, and strengthening gender inclusion.

With members drawn from all 36 states and the FCT, the organisation plays a key role in grassroots mobilisation, promoting democracy, and supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to the organisation, Adegbenro’s appointment marks a new chapter in its drive to deepen grassroots engagement and inspire women leaders across the Southwest. His extensive networks and leadership experience are expected to play a vital role in the execution of NAWA-ORG’s strategic initiatives – including Women United for Tinubu (WUT) and the Hope Forward Network (HFN) – aimed at consolidating policy gains and positioning the APC for victory in the 2027 elections.

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has presented N415.57 billion budgetary estimates for the 2026 fiscal year to the Ekiti State House of Assembly.

The 2026 Budget Estimate of Ekiti State, which was christened ‘Budget of Impactful Governance,’ is made up of a Recurrent Expenditure of N221.87 billion, representing 53 percent of the total size of the budget, and a Capital Expenditure of N193.70 billion, which translates to 46 percent of the total size.

The Ekiti budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year is about 11 percent higher than the approved 2025 budget, which stood at N375.79 billion and which had N252.15 billion as its Recurrent Expenditure and N104.51 billion as Capital Expenditure.

Presenting the budget proposal in Ado-Ekiti on Friday, Governor Oyebanji said that the 2026 Budget would be tailored towards the completion of all ongoing infrastructural development projects in the state.

The Budget, according to the governor, would also focus on investing massively in agriculture and the related value chain and address wealth creation as well as the welfare of the people to further ensure the fulfillment of the Shared Prosperity agenda of his administration.

He noted that the planned investment in agriculture and wealth creation was targeted at stabilizing the prices of food and generating employment, as well as enhancing food security and boosting the contribution of agriculture to the state’s Gross Domestic Product.

Governor Oyebanji explained that the revenue sources expected to fund the budget size of N415.57 billion include Federal Allocation, Value Added Tax (VAT), Independent Revenue (from MDAs and Tertiary Institutions), International Donor Agencies, and other sundry income sources.

Oyebanji stated that the 2026 Budget estimate was a product of statewide consultations with the representatives of various towns and communities, various interest groups, revered traditional rulers, and Civil Society Organizations at Town Hall Meetings held across the three senatorial districts, which enabled the people to articulate the needs of their towns, communities, and groups for consideration in the budget.

He further explained that the 2026 Budget stemmed from the State Development Plan, 2021-2050, Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), 2026-2028, and the Six Pillars of his Administration, and was prepared in compliance with the National Chart of Accounts (NCoA) Template as unanimously agreed by the sub-nationals through the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF).

He pledged the government’s commitment to ensure fiscal responsibility towards the implementation of the proposed 2026 Budget, which he described as an embodiment of the policy thrust of his administration and direction of the Ekiti State Government in the coming year.

The governor noted that probity, transparency, and accountability have been the hallmark of governance in Ekiti State under his watch, which he described as necessary in upholding good governance and improving the standard of living of the people.

Oyebanji also expressed his profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ‘for his very strong support to the government and the good people of Ekiti State’, noting that this support has translated to several interventions and has been very helpful in the quest to alleviate poverty in the State and in the delivery of his campaign promises to Ekiti people.

Reviewing the performance of the 2025 budget, Governor Oyebanji, who expressed satisfaction with the improvement in the budget performance, said his government has ensured good implementation of the 2025 Budget with several projects and programmes being executed in 2025, which include the construction and rehabilitation of several roads, renovation of eight general hospitals, among others.

In his remarks, the Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye assured that the lawmakers would deliberate on the budget with diligence, patriotism, and impartiality to ensure that the 2026 Appropriation Bill reflects the aspirations of the generality of Ekiti people.

The Speaker urged his colleagues to act as stewards and work on the budget proposal with integrity, discipline, and a shared sense of purpose, noting that ‘with united effort, we can sustain the momentum of reforms, catalyze inclusive growth, and build an Ekiti State where opportunity is within reach for all. He also urged heads of MDAs to be prepared to shed light on their respective aspects of the budget when invited.

The Speaker also reaffirmed the pledge of the State legislature ‘that every naira will be accounted for and directed to priority sectors that yield maximum public benefit.’