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Real Madrid secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu, with goals from Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, and a spirited team display.

The hosts dominated possession from the onset, controlling 81% of the ball in the opening stages and keeping Villarreal pinned in their own half.

Despite several early half-chances, Real had to wait until the second half to make their breakthrough.

After a goalless first period, Real Madrid found the breakthrough just two minutes after the restart.

Vinícius Júnior showcased his trademark quick feet and dribbling ability, weaving through multiple yellow shirts before his deflected effort wrong-footed goalkeeper Arnau Tenas and found the back of the net to make it 1-0 in the 47th minute.

Villarreal, however, refused to be subdued and attempted to respond swiftly through Georges Mikautadze and Pape Gueye, who both came close to testing Thibaut Courtois.

Real Madrid extended their lead in the 69th minute when Pape Gueye’s handball inside the box prompted referee Guillermo Cuadra to point to the spot. Vinícius stepped up confidently and, despite Tenas getting a hand to the ball, slotted home to make it 2-0.

The goal came after a series of substitutions by Alonso, including the introduction of Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, which injected more energy and precision into Madrid’s midfield.

Villarreal managed to pull one back just four minutes later when Gueye’s clever pass found Mikautadze at the edge of the box. The Georgian forward unleashed a pinpoint strike into the bottom left corner, reducing the deficit to 2-1 and giving the visitors a brief glimmer of hope.

That hope, however, was extinguished in the 81st minute. Brahim Díaz, who had just come off the bench, slipped an incisive pass to Mbappé inside the penalty area.

The French star calmly slotted past Tenas from close range to restore Madrid’s two-goal cushion at 3-1. Moments later, Mbappé limped off after appearing to suffer a minor knock, replaced by Rodrygo.

In stoppage time, Real Madrid continued to press for a fourth goal. Federico Valverde sent a fierce long-range effort over the bar, while Bellingham saw his late strike blocked inside the box. Villarreal offered little in response, especially after Santiago Mourino was sent off for a second yellow card in the 77th minute.

Tragedy has struck in the Federal Capital Territory as unknown gunmen brutally murdered a veterinary doctor, Dr. Ifeanyi Ogbu, and abducted his three children during a late-night invasion of his residence in Kubwa, Abuja.

Dr. Ogbu, a respected veterinarian and former Chairman of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA),

FCT Chapter, was reportedly taken along with his children on Friday night after the armed assailants stormed his home along the Kubwa-Kaduna Road.

His lifeless body was later discovered by the roadside, raising deep concerns about the growing wave of violent crimes in the capital city.

The heartbreaking news was confirmed by a close associate, Andrew Gabriel Ikechukwu, through a Facebook post. He wrote:

‘Dr. Ifeanyi Ogbu, the immediate past chairman of the NVMA FCT chapter, who was kidnapped alongside his three children from his home in Kubwa Abuja, has been found dead. The children are still missing.

May God please intervene.’

Dr. Ogbu was widely admired for his dedication to animal health and community service.

Friends and professional colleagues described him as a man of integrity and compassion whose death leaves a painful void in the veterinary community.

The deceased leaves behind his wife, who is reportedly in deep distress, and other grieving family members as search efforts intensify to rescue the abducted children.

This gruesome incident follows closely on the heels of another violent crime in Abuja the killing of Arise TV journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu during a robbery in Katampe last week.

Security experts and residents have expressed alarm over the rising cases of abductions and killings across the FCT, calling for urgent government intervention.

As of press time, the FCT Police Command had yet to issue an official statement concerning thebjwCalls and messages to police spokespersons went unanswered, though sources said an investigation into the attack is ongoing.

The Chairmen of Mopamuro and Ijumu Local Governments in Kogi, have issued executive orders prohibiting the sale of petrol in jerrycans as part of efforts to curb activities of kidnappers and bandits in their domains.

The two local government areas in Kogi West Senatorial have virtually become the hub for kidnapping activities in the state.

The ban on the sale of fuel in jerrycans will cut off logistics supply to the criminal elements, Mr Ademola Bello, Chairman of Mopamuro, said while announcing the executive order on Friday in Mopa.

He reiterated that the directive was part of efforts to address the growing menace of banditry and kidnappings in the area and Kogi at large.

According to him, the prohibition of fuel sales to individuals in jerrycans is designed to prevent the diversion of fuel into unauthorized channels, especially bandits’ hideouts.

Additionally, Bello restricted sales of provisions in bulk, instructing provision store owners to stop selling goods, particularly food items and other essentials in bulk, to discourage supplying bandits in their various hideouts.

‘To further enhance security surveillance and reduce the incidence of crime at late-night, a curfew has been imposed in Mopamuro LGA, restricting movement beyond 10 p.m.,’ he said.

The chairman directed all security agencies within the local government to strictly enforce the provisions of the executive order.

He warned that any individual found violating these directives would be apprehended and sanctioned in accordance with the law.

‘By adhering to these regulations, residents can significantly contribute to maintaining peace and security within their communities.

‘Together, we can make Mopamuro a safer and more secure place for everyone,’ Bello said.

Similarly, Alhaji Ibrahim Haruna, the Chairman, Ijumu Local Government, issued a directive halting the sale of petrol in jerrycans in the area.

Haruna cited credible intelligence indicating that large quantities of petrol were being diverted for use by kidnappers and bandits.

He emphasised the urgent need for residents to comply with the directive, stressing that the measure was necessary for the safety and security of the community.

Both Chairmen urged residents to cooperate with the local government administration and security agencies in ensuring the success of this initiative.

They assured residents that Kogi State Government was working assiduously to tackle the current security threats.

The chairmen urged the public to remain calm, cooperate fully with authorities, and continue to support government efforts with their prayers. (NAN)

A section of the First Bank building on Library Avenue in Umuahia, Abia State, collapsed on Saturday afternoon, sending panic through the city’s commercial district.

According to a report by Punch, the incident occurred during off-working hours, forcing traders and passersby in the area to flee as parts of the structure suddenly gave way.

The affected area, which hosts several banks, offices, and shops, has since been cordoned off as emergency responders and security operatives moved in to assess the situation and prevent further danger.

As of the time of filing this report, details on possible casualties or the extent of the damage remain sketchy.

An eyewitness described the collapse as ‘sudden,’ saying the structure ‘just gave in and people started running for safety.’

Authorities of First Bank are yet to release an official statement on the incident.

Oladele Nurudeen Alao, popularly known by his stage name Nero Cole, is steadily carving his space in the Afrobeat scene. Born and raised in Oyero, Ifo, Ogun State, Nigeria, Nero Cole has transformed his passion for music into a growing career that continues to draw attention from fans and industry watchers alike.

Early Life and Background

Coming from a humble background in Ogun State, Nero Cole developed a love for music at an early age. His environment, culture, and personal experiences shaped the storytelling and rhythm found in his music today. Like many Afrobeat artists, he draws inspiration from the hustle, struggles, and triumphs of everyday life, blending them into sounds that connect with his audience.

Career Journey

Nero Cole has been consistent with his music journey, releasing several songs that have showcased his versatility and unique Afrobeat style. Over time, his craft has matured, earning him recognition among fans who appreciate his energy and authenticity.

One of his standout moments came with his recent release featuring Destiny Boy, a collaboration that amplified his reach and reinforced his presence in the industry. The synergy between both artists created a track that resonated well with Afrobeat lovers. Upcoming Release

Now, the fast-rising star is set to thrill his fans again with a brand-new single scheduled for release on October 31st, 2025. The project is highly anticipated, with supporters eager to experience another dose of his vibrant sound and lyrical creativity.

The Future of Nero Cole

With every release, Nero Cole continues to solidify his position as a voice to watch in the Afrobeat space. His dedication, talent, and growing fanbase suggest that the artist from Oyero is only just beginning. As the Afrobeat wave keeps conquering global stages, artists like Nero Cole are set to carry the sound even further.

Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice were the stars of the show as Arsenal cruised past West Ham United on Saturday, marking Mikel Arteta’s 300th game in charge with a dominant 2-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium.

Rice opened his account for the season against his former club, finishing neatly after Eberechi Eze’s shot was parried by Alphonse Areola. The goal came shortly after captain Martin Odegaard was forced off with an injury, the third straight home game the midfielder has failed to finish.

Despite the setback, Arsenal maintained full control of the match. Their attacking intent was clear from the start, with Arteta fielding an adventurous midfield of Rice, Odegaard, and Eze, showing the depth of a squad strengthened by a £250m summer overhaul.

The Gunners sealed victory in the second half after Jurrien Timber was brought down by El Hadji Malick Diouf inside the box. Saka, making his 200th Premier League appearance, calmly converted the resulting penalty, his 55th league goal for the club.

The win sent Arsenal to the top of the Premier League table, overtaking Liverpool ahead of their clash with Chelsea later in the day.

For West Ham, new boss Nuno Espirito Santo is still searching for his first win. His side showed flashes of discipline and organisation but were ultimately second best against a superior Arsenal team.

Niclas Fullkrug went close from a corner, while Lucas Paquetá fired over the bar, but the visitors rarely threatened Guglielmo Vicario’s goal.

Ondo governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has urged people of Ekiti to re-elect Biodun Oyebanji, his Ekiti counterpart, for a second term in office.

He said this will ensure continuity of what he described as Oyebanji’s ‘people-oriented policies and programmes’ that have transformed Ekiti state in the last three years.

Aiyedatiwa , who described Oyebanji as a dependable leader, said a second term would avail the governor the opportunity to deepen the people-oriented programmes that had touched lives across the state.

The Ondo State Governor made the appeal on Friday during the funeral ceremony of Chief Mathew Okunola, father of Justice Oyebisi Omoleye of the Court of Appeal, held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ikole Ekiti.

Aiyedatiwa also urged Ekiti people within and outside the state to intensify prayers for the progress and development of the state under Oyebanji till 2030.

‘Please continue to support Oyebanji because he has performed excellently and if given another chance, he will do more.

‘This our work is a big one and we cannot do it alone, that is why I am requesting for all your support.

‘The things we are doing are not what can happen within one month, it will take a while, every one wants it to get to them immediately and it is not possible. Just be patient with us,’ Ayedatiwa said.

While commiserating with Justice Omoleye and her family on the death of their patriarch, the governor described the deceased as a highly respected community leader.

He prayed for repose of the soul of the deceased, and urged the family to uphold his legacy of integrity and service.

‘The deceased did well and that is why we see everybody here today.

‘Those of us alive at this time, let us do well in whatever position we occupy, let us put in our best just as my brother Oyebanji, is putting in his best and am also trying my best in my state,’ the governor said.

Earlier, Oyebanji described the deceased as a trail blazer and an achiever in several fronts.

He said the late Okunola would be remembered for his dedication to community development and positive influence on the Ikole traditional Council, Church, and society at large, where he served with distinction in different capacities.

Oyebanji, while commiserating with family of the deceased, urged them to take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled life that impacted on the lives of many.

In his homily, the Vicar in charge of St Silas Anglican Church, Omuo Ekiti, Ven. Ajao Mathew, described the late Okunola as a true lover of God and His work.

He said that Okunola lived his life in the service of the Church and humanity.

The burial ceremony was attended by dignitaries from across the country.

As the countdown to the January, 2026 effective take off of two landmark Tax Reform laws gathers steam, wrong narratives and misconceptions about aspects of the new tax laws have also been on the increase. While some of the misconceptions are borne out of innocent ignorance, others are mostly from a place of political mischievousness. In this Explainer I will be addressing the misconceptions around the income tax provisions in the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025.

Over the past couple of months, I have noticed the following misconceptions and wrong narratives around the issue of income tax, many of which emanate from individuals or businesses who have clearly been evading income taxes: my

1. Nigerians pay higher income taxes from January 1, 2026

2. Money in individual bank accounts would be automatically taxed by the government

3. Federal government is desperate to raise revenue by taxing the income of Nigerians heavily.

4. Tax laws will stifle productivity

I will briefly touch on each of these misconceptions, providing clarifications in layman terms.

1. HIGHER OR LOWER INCOME TAXES FOR INDIVIDUALS?

The reality is that the income tax paid by MAJORITY of Nigerians will reduce following the new personal income tax provisions in the Nigerian Tax Act, 2025 that exempted individuals earning N800,000 and below per annum from paying income tax. What this means is that Nigerians earning minimum wage or below will pay zero income tax.

I understand some will argue that minimum wage is N70,000 per month, which translates to N840,000 per annum and ordinarily means a minimum wage earner still has N40,000 above the N800,000 exemption threshold that is subjected to an income tax of 15% under the new tax law. That is correct, but here is the catch, there is what is called TAXABLE INCOME and is not necessarily equivalent to the total income of an individual.

Taxable income is simply the part of the total income that can be taxed after allowable deductions have been made. Under the NTA 2025, you can deduct the following from your GROSS income to get your TAXABLE income:

a) NHIS contribution (5% of salary for most employees)

b) Annual rent (corresponding to 20% of the rent up to a maximum of N500,000)

c) National Housing Fund deduction (2.5% of gross pay)

d) Employee Pension contribution (8% of employee salary)

e) Life insurance premium for you and your spouse

In other words, a minimum wage earner claim some or all of these deductions and these will certainly drive down the taxable income within the exemption threshold of N800,000 per annum.

Let us do a practical calculation for an individual earning N70,000 monthly (minimum wage) who pays an annual rent of N200,000 in addition to NHIS, NHF and contributory pension deductions.

His gross annual income = N840,000

Pension contributions = N67,200

NHF deduction = N21,000

NHIS deduction = N42,000

20% of Annual Rent = N40,000

By the time you make these allowable deductions from the N840,000 gross income, the individual’s TAXABLE INCOME becomes N710,800. This falls well within the exemption threshold which means the individual will not pay any income tax.

If an individual earns N80,000 monthly, and we use similar deductions for NHIS, NHF and CPS while raising annual rent to N300,000 with 20% amounting to N60,000, the individual will still be exempt from paying income tax as the taxable income would be N799,200 – within the N800,000 tax exemption threshold. Even when we calculate for an individual earning an annual gross income of N1.2m, the individual may even fall within the tax exempt status depending on the deductions he or she claims or at worst the individual may just be taxed an effective tax rate of 2.5% under the new law as against 4.6% under the old law.

The tax band is progressive in nature and only makes the rich with reasonably much higher annual gross income to pay a little more than before, which is a fair system. Although, depending on the deductions they may claim, they can end up paying lesser income tax than before. This in itself opens a lot of opportunities for the economy especially the life insurance sector as well as the health sector since one can actually sign up for health insurance and/or life insurance in order to pay lesser income tax while at the same time benefiting from quality all-round cheaper healthcare offered by the NHIS for the family.

Below is a demo tax calculation for an individual earning an annual gross income of N50 million. The individual lives in an apartment he purchased with a bank loan of N80 million at an annual interest rate of 27% with a five year tenor, making his annual interest payment to be approximately N4.32 million. This particular individual also makes N5 million contribution towards his pension and another N2.5 million NHIS contribution that covers himself, his spouse and four kids.

After deducting N5 million pension contributions, N2.5 million NHIS contribution and N4.32 million interest payment, his taxable income out of the N50 million gross income becomes just N35.18 million. However, this N35.18 million is not taxed a flat rate of 23% (under the old law, income above N3.2 million is taxed a flat rate of 24%), rather it is progressive – the first 800k is 0%, next N2.2m is taxed at 15%, next N9m is taxed at 18%, next N13m is taxed at 21% while the next N25m is taxed at 23%.

The income tax of this individual under the new tax laws is N7.02 million, which is basically 14.0% of his gross income – just 1.1% higher than his effective tax rate under the old laws. This is still by far very fair when you consider what is obtainable in many other countries of the world where effective tax rate can get to as high as 60% of taxable income.

2. WILL INCOME TAX BE AUTOMATICALLY DEDUCTED FROM BANK ACCOUNTS?

The simple answer is NO. Taxes would not be automatically deducted from the bank account of Nigerians.

This misconception is probably because of the provisions in section 29 of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act which mandates banks and other financial institutions to furnish the tax authority on a quarterly basis information (name and addresses) about their customers with cumulative monthly transactions of N25 million and above for individuals or N100 million and above for a body corporate. Even though the information will help a tax authority know those ELIGIBLE taxpayers evading taxes, the provision does not amount to automatic deduction of taxes from the accounts.

Crucially, if your monthly cumulative transactions as an individual does not amount to N25 million and above or from N100 million for corporate bodies, this provision does not concern you in any way. Only about 5% of the population have bank accounts that have more than half a million in them. So, in essence, more than 90% of Nigerians, which includes all the poor and vulnerable people in Nigeria are not affected by this provision.

3. IS THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DESPERATE TO RAISE REVENUE BY TAXING THE INCOME OF NIGERIANS HEAVILY?

Again, the simple and short answer is NO!

The reforms in the income tax laws are not particularly meant for the federal government to raise more revenue by taxing Nigerians heavily, the reverse is actually the case. The tax laws are meant to relieve poor Nigerians of tax burden. Meanwhile, the greatest beneficiary of personal income tax revenues are the states because Section 3(2) of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act confers jurisdiction on the state tax authority in respect of tax on the income, profit or gains of individuals residing in a state. Therefore, personal income tax is part of the IGR sources of state governments.

The FG only retains income taxes from personnel of the armed forces and personnel of the Nigerian Foreign Service in addition to non-residents (those not living in Nigeria) who derive income or profit from Nigeria. Under the new tax laws, the FG has even exempted members of the armed forces from paying income tax. So, the federal government cannot raise revenue from the income of civilians living in Nigeria as that is the exclusive preserve of the states.

Also, the fact that the tax laws exempted Nigerians earning below N800,000 per annum from income tax shows that the tax laws are not necessarily about raising revenues but reducing tax burden on Nigerians so that they can have more disposable income. The tax laws simply tried to focus on increasing tax compliance by the high income earners with the state governments being the ultimate beneficiary in any case.

4. WILL THE TAX LAWS STIFLE PRODUCTIVITY?

Definitely NOT!

The new tax laws are primarily meant to boost productivity and not stifle it. This is not difficult to prove. First, the wide range of exemptions for both individual taxpayers and small businesses clearly indicates an intention to bring relief to low income individuals and small businesses. Section 56 of the Nigeria Tax Act pegs the income (profit) tax rate for small businesses at 0%.

In section 147 (page 331) of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, a small company is defined as a company with an annual gross turnover of N100m or less and with total fixed assets not exceeding N250m. This is basically 90% of businesses in Nigeria. A tax law that exempts over 90% of businesses in the country from paying profit tax cannot be stifling productivity under any circumstances!

In fact the same section 56 of the Nigeria Tax Act pegs the profit tax rate for larger companies at 30% with a proviso that this rate shall be REDUCED to 25% from a date to be determined in an order issued by the President on the advice of the National Economic Council. This provision was a compromise position reached to allay the fears of the Nigerian Governors Forum who felt the initial proposal to progressively reduce CIT for large companies to 25% by 2030 would likely reduce revenue inflows into the federation account since CIT revenue is shared by the three tiers of government.

The provision allows the eventual rate reduction to happen when the states (who are represented in the National Economic Council) are confident that such a reduction will not adversely impact on the federation revenue inflows. The Council will then advise the President to proclaim the order reducing CIT to 25%. If the new tax laws were to be anti-productivity, the company income tax rate would have been jerked up to above the 30% rate in the old Income Tax law.

CONCLUSION

From the foregoing, it is evidently clear that the income tax provisions in both the Nigeria Tax Act and the Nigeria Tax Administration Act are people-friendly, business-friendly, pro-poor and formulated to stimulate productivity by reducing the amount of money businesses pay as profit taxes or eliminating the profit tax entirely for small businesses. It is important that states through their tax authorities massively educate residents on the correct provisions of the tax laws especially as it pertains to income taxes.

As I conclude, I must emphasise that tax is an obligation that citizens owe their country. There is no valid excuse for any ELIGIBLE taxpayer, especially those who are not classified poor, to shy away from paying their fair share of taxes. This also applies to eligible corporate taxpayers. The new tax laws makes tax evasion more difficult and will bring many eligible taxpayers, hitherto avoiding taxes, into the tax net. As more high networth individuals and entities are captured in the tax net, they will have more motivation to demand for accountability from elected and appointed leaders across the three tiers of government who manage these tax revenues. This is potentially a very good news for accelerated national development.

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced a strategic partnership with Chinese investors aimed at enhancing the state’s energy infrastructure and expanding its industrial capacity.

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, the governor revealed that discussions were held with the Jiangsu-based energy company Cteec. Talks focused on financing opportunities, technical expertise, and the company’s readiness to deliver key energy projects in the state.

Governor Abiodun noted that the engagement centred around three major areas of collaboration: Strengthening power transmission and distribution across the state; establishing an Industrial Park designed to attract Chinese manufacturers and integrate power solutions, and installing a free 3MW power plant at the Gateway International Cargo Airport to support immediate operations.

‘Our discussions highlighted three critical components of our partnership: the reinforcement of Ogun’s electricity infrastructure, the creation of a manufacturing hub powered by reliable energy, and the installation of a 3MW power facility at our airport, which will immediately catalyse activity at that important location,’ Abiodun stated.

The governor also disclosed that the Chinese delegation would inspect ongoing distribution and power infrastructure projects executed by Sahara and Powergen, as part of wider efforts to secure a stable energy supply for the state.

According to Abiodun, Cteec already has an existing investment portfolio of 100MW in Nigeria and is now seeking to expand its footprint. The company’s interests include power generation and distribution, investment in a dedicated state transmission network, and the development of an Industrial Park to attract further Chinese manufacturers to Ogun State.

‘This partnership is yet another testament to our unwavering commitment to building the energy backbone that will support Ogun State’s industrialisation and long-term economic development,’ the governor added.

In related developments, the Gateway International Airport in Iperu-Ilishan is gearing up for commercial operations. Reports indicate that inaugural flights from the airport to Abuja have sold out, with tickets for subsequent days also fully booked , signalling strong demand and readiness of the facility to serve as a key aviation hub in Nigeria.

‘Our vision has always been to leave a legacy of sustainable development and inclusive growth. From constructing roads that ease transportation of people and goods, to developing affordable housing, we remain committed to improving the quality of life for our citizens,’ said Abiodun.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority officially granted the Gateway International Airport its Aerodrome Operational Permit in August 2025. Passenger flight services are scheduled to commence on 7 October 2025, with Value Jet Airline operating flights twice weekly.

No fewer than 250 commercial taxi drivers have been arrested across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by operatives of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for violating safety directives restricting only one passenger in the front seat.

The arrests, which took place within the first 48 hours of a renewed enforcement drive that began on October 2, were part of a wider campaign to end overloading and unsafe transport practices in Abuja.

Confirming the development, the FCT Sector Commander, Corps Commander Felix Theman, said the operation was launched to restore passenger dignity and safety on the roads.

‘Enforcement is the most civil and effective way to ensure that safety is not compromised for convenience,’ Theman stated.

He noted that many of the apprehended drivers were found carrying two passengers in the front seat, a practice that violates vehicle design standards and makes proper seatbelt use impossible.

The FRSC warned that overloading endangers lives, puts extra strain on tyres and suspension systems, and reduces a driver’s control in emergencies.

‘The overloading of passengers and goods not only endangers lives but also places undue stress on vehicles. It impairs the driver’s ability to control the vehicle effectively, especially in emergency situations,’ Theman added.

Theman disclosed that the Command had consulted transport unions and stakeholders before the operation, noting that the unions pledged full support for the safety drive.

The enforcement, he said, is being carried out with the aid of mobile magistrate courts for the on-the-spot prosecution of offenders.

He further warned commercial drivers using unsafe vehicles to upgrade or risk immediate impoundment as part of the broader push for safer urban transport.

‘Passengers must support the FRSC’s efforts to protect their right to safe and dignified transportation,’ he said.

The FRSC also announced that full activation of mobile court locations across the FCT will begin on Monday, October 6, to further intensify the clampdown on violators.