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The 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly recently concluded successfully. This was a session of special significance, as it marked the 80th anniversary of the victory in the global anti-fascist war and the establishment of the United Nations. Over the past 80 years, the UN has become the most universal, representative and authoritative intergovernmental international organisation, with the UN-centred international system widely supported by the international community.

Eighty years ago, defeated Japan returned Taiwan to China, which was an indisputable outcome of the global anti-fascist war and a crucial part of the post-war international order. Currently, the Taiwan Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities stubbornly adopt a separatist policy seeking ‘Taiwan independence’, while a small number of countries claim that China’s sovereignty over Taiwan has not been established, openly challenging the authority of the UN and the post-war international order. To clarify the facts and set the record straight, I feel obligated to address several common fallacies on the Taiwan Question.

Fallacy 1: ‘The two sides of the Taiwan Strait are not subordinate to each other.’

Taiwan has belonged to China since ancient times, with clear historical and legal foundations. Numerous historical records and documents detail the early development of Taiwan by the Chinese people. As early as the 12th century, the Chinese government established administrative institutions and exercised jurisdiction in Taiwan. In 1895, Japan forced the Qing government to cede Taiwan and the Penghu Islands to Japan through war. In 1943, the Cairo Declaration issued by China, the United States and the United Kingdom stipulated that all the territories seized by Japan, including Taiwan, must be returned to China. In 1945, the Potsdam Proclamation issued by China, the United States, the United Kingdom and the Soviet Union reaffirmed that the terms of the Cairo Declaration must be implemented.

In August of that year, Japan accepted the Potsdam Proclamation and signed the Instrument of Surrender in September, pledging to ‘faithfully fulfil the obligations laid down in the Potsdam Proclamation.’

Through a series of internationally legally binding documents, China recovered Taiwan both legally and in fact. Although the two sides of the Taiwan Strait have not yet achieved complete reunification, the fact that both the mainland of China and Taiwan belong to one China and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China has never changed and cannot be changed. This is the true status quo of the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan has never been a country, nor will it ever be in the future.

Fallacy 2: ‘China’s sovereignty over Taiwan has not been established.’

Shortly after the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japan in 1945, the Nationalist government led by Chiang Kai-shek launched a civil war. Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, the Chinese people won the civil war, ultimately overthrowing the ‘Republic of China’ government led by Chiang Kai-shek. Some members of the Nationalist regime retreated to Taiwan, and with interference from external forces, the two sides of the Taiwan Strait entered a prolonged state of political confrontation.

On October 1, 1949, the Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) was established, and the PRC government became the sole legitimate government of China. This was a change of government within the same international legal entity of China, with no change to China’s sovereignty or inherent territory. The PRC government naturally enjoys and exercises China’s sovereignty in full, including sovereignty over Taiwan. Fallacy 3: ‘UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not establish the One-China principle.’

Resolution 2758 fully embodies the One-China principle. On August 20, 1971, before the resolution was put to a vote, the Chinese government issued a statement emphasising, ‘There are not two Chinas in the world; there is only one China, the People’s Republic of China. Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory and a province of China, which was returned to the motherland at the end of World War II. This is an indisputable fact.’ On October 25, 1971, the 26th session of the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 2758, which decided to ‘restore all the rights of the People’s Republic of China, recognise the representatives of its government as the only legitimate representatives of China to the United Nations, and expel forthwith the representatives of Chiang Kai-shek from the place which they unlawfully occupy at the United Nations and in all the organisations related to it.’

Resolution 2758 politically affirmed and consolidated the One-China principle: there is only one China in the world, Taiwan is a part of China, and the PRC government is the sole legitimate government representing all of China. Following the resolution’s adoption, UN official documents consistently refer to Taiwan as ‘Taiwan, Province of China’. These facts are indisputable and unchallengeable.

Fallacy 4: ‘UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not determine Taiwan’s status.’

Resolution 2758 and the One-China principle that the Resolution embodies impose a universal binding force on all subjects of the international community through the UN Charter, bilateral diplomatic treaties, and fundamental principles of international law.

In diplomatic practice, the resolution’s authority is reflected in the correct Taiwan-related positions, policies, and actions of the UN General Assembly, UN specialised agencies, and many UN member states. These collectively form an important international legal and moral foundation for handling Taiwan-related questions. The One-China principle, framework, consensus and related institutional arrangements supported by the resolution have become principles and common knowledge followed by all countries, as well as a solemn commitment by countries with diplomatic relations to respect China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The claim by a few countries that ‘Taiwan’s status is undetermined’ challenges the authority of the UN, defies the post-war international order, and is an absurd and dangerous attempt to reverse history.

Fallacy 5: ‘Now is the time for the UN to recognise Taiwan.’

According to Resolution 2758, China’s representation in the UN naturally includes Taiwan as part of the whole of China. This is entirely consistent with the international legal principle that ‘one sovereign state can only be represented by one central government.’ There is only one seat for China in the UN, and the PRC government is the sole legitimate representative of China in the UN. There is no issue of ‘two Chinas’ or ‘one China, one Taiwan’.

The Taiwan authorities have repeatedly pushed for farcical attempts to achieve ‘meaningful participation’ or ‘re-entry’ into the UN, trying to challenge the authority of Resolution 2758, but all ended in failure. Resolution 2758 clarifies that ‘China’ in the UN Charter refers to the People’s Republic of China, imposing an obligation on all UN member states to avoid raising the so-called issue of Taiwan’s representation in the UN system. Taiwan has no basis, reason or right to participate in the UN or other international organisations exclusive to sovereign states. On this matter of principle, there is no grey area or room for ambiguity.

The One-China principle has become an international consensus, with 183 countries, including Nigeria, establishing diplomatic relations with China based on this principle. In 1971, when China and Nigeria established diplomatic relations, Nigeria solemnly pledged in the Joint Communiqué: ‘The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria recognises the Government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing the entire Chinese people.’ Since then, the One-China principle has been firmly supported by successive Nigerian governments, serving as the cornerstone for the healthy and stable development of China-Nigeria relations.

The Nigerian government requested the Taiwan authorities to relocate its trade office to Lagos from Abuja in 2017, strictly restricted official interactions between Nigerian government officials and Taiwan, and reiterated that the Taipei trade office in Nigeria is a non-diplomatic commercial entity that does not represent any government.

In September 2024, during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to China, Nigeria reiterated in the Joint Statement: ‘Nigeria firmly adheres to the One-China principle, recognises that there is only one China in the world, that the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China, and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory. Nigeria opposes any form of ‘Taiwan independence’, opposes interference in China’s internal affairs, and firmly supports the Chinese government’s efforts to achieve national reunification.’

China highly appreciates the Nigerian government’s firm stance on the Taiwan Question. Nigeria’s political resolve and firm stance align with the fundamental interests of the Nigerian nation and people, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and the global landscape of one China. Currently, the China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership continues to deepen, with friendly cooperation becoming a model for China-Africa cooperation and Global South collaboration. China is willing to strengthen strategic communication and practical cooperation with Nigeria, promote the early implementation of a zero-tariff policy for 100% of tariff lines on products, enhance collaboration under the framework of the Global Governance Initiative, and jointly build a China-Nigeria community with a shared future.

We hope that all peace-loving countries and peoples will stand on the side of historical justice, uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, safeguard the authority of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, firmly oppose the deliberate distortions by the Taiwan authorities and a few countries, and take concrete actions to support the Chinese people’s just cause of defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity and achieving national reunification.

The Edo State Executive Council has approved a revised supplementary budget of N799.820 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, up from the initial N675.220 billion, representing an increase of approximately N125 billion, or 18 percent.

The approval which followed an emergency executive meeting presided over by the Chairman-in-Council and Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, on Monday,

Briefing journalists immediately after the meeting, the Commissioner for Finance, Emmanuel Okoebor, explained the rationale behind the adjustment and emphasised the government’s commitment to infrastructure development.

Okoebor explained: ‘Previously, we had a budget of N675 billion with recurrent expenditure having about 33 percent and capital 67 percent. The new revised budget now has about 70 percent for capital expenditure as against 30 percent for recurrent expenditure. It shows the commitment of Governor Monday Okpebholo in infrastructural development in Edo state.’

He further explained the size and nature of the increment. ‘The increment in the budget is about N125 billion, which signifies about 18 percent of the previous budget. Recurrent increased with about N12 billion, while capital is about N113 billion from the previous one. Given about 25 percent increment in Capital expenditure and just 5 percent increment in recurrent expenditure.

‘It clearly shows that the government is concerned about infrastructural development making Edo people happy. We have done about 254KM of road across the state, and many more construction works are ongoing.

‘Recurrent expenditure has about 5 percent increment as the increase in minimum wage necessitated that increment, including a lot of employment the present administration did in the hospital management board for over 1000, and it needs to be captured.

‘The budget has been increased by N125 billion, which is about 18 percent, and capital expenditure by about 25 percent, from N450 billion to N563 billion.’

According to the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Communication, Paul Ohombamu, the revised budget is expected to be forwarded to the Edo State House of Assembly for legislative consideration and passage.

President Bola Tinubu has condemned the murder of Somtochukwu Maduagwu, a news anchor with Arise News Television, directing security operatives to fish out her killers.

Bayo Onanuga, presidential Spokesman, said Maduagwu was killed during an attack by robbers at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.

President Tinubu extended his condolences to the family of Maduagwu, the management and staff of Arise News Television, and the entire Nigerian media fraternity over the loss. According to the President : ‘ Ms Maduagwu was a promising professional journalist whose life was cut short in a cruel and condemnable manner.

‘ Security and law enforcement agencies should conduct a quick and thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice without delay,’ he said.

The President, while also commiserating with the bereaved family, assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens, and will continue to strengthen measures aimed at combating crime in all its forms.

In fulfilment of its promises and commitment to socio-economic development, the Kwara State Government has executed over 100 projects within one year.

Abdulrasheed Oluwafemi Yusuf, Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, disclosed this while briefing journalists on his one-year stewardship at the News Keg personality programme, organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents’ Chapel in Ilorin.

He noted that from inception, his administration set out to complement the efforts of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq in ensuring that development reaches every part of Ifelodun, the largest local government in the State. ‘Our administration has touched more than 100 communities through infrastructural and social projects that have improved lives, enhanced security, and strengthened community development,’ Yusuf said.

Among the projects executed are the installation of solar-powered streetlights in over 20 communities; provision and rehabilitation of more than 30 solar-powered boreholes and hand pumps across wards in Atanda, Apara, Adio, Anita, Eleyele, among others. He also listed the construction and renovation of primary healthcare centres in Oke-Ode, Labaka Oja, Adanla, Ofarese, Ijaya-Share, and Ajapa; provision of medical equipment and essential drugs to health facilities; as well as sponsorship of 41 students for health-related courses at the Kwara State Polytechnic of Health Technology, Offa, with plans for their absorption into the local health sector.

On infrastructure, the council rehabilitated several roads, including Isanlu-Isin, Kajola, Oke-Oyan, Umupo, Chahiyan, Igbaja, Ofarese, Oke-Ode, Afon Junction, and Oro-Ago. In the agricultural sector, Yusuf revealed that the council refurbished four abandoned tractors to near-new condition and added them to two existing ones, along with another from ACReSAL, bringing the total to seven functional tractors for farmers.

The council also procured five ridgers to promote mechanised farming, organised step-down training for 500 livestock farmers, and supported them with necessary machinery.

Looking ahead, the Chairman pledged more transformative projects in the council’s second year, particularly in road construction, education, healthcare, and security.

When Nigeria gained independence in 1960, its founding fathers envisioned a nation that would stand tall, healthy, and prosperous.

The University College Hospital, Ibadan, stood as a beacon of modern medicine on the continent, attracting patients from West Africa and beyond.

Six and a half decades later, that dream has dimmed for many Nigerians.

Today, the health sector is at once a story of progress and paradox.

There are centres of excellence, revitalised primary health care facilities, and pioneering projects that have saved countless lives.

Yet, millions still die from preventable causes; families are pushed into poverty by medical bills, and doctors depart in droves for greener pastures abroad.

As Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, the question is clear: how is the health sector faring?

Experts say that Nigeria’s health system has evolved through alternating waves of reform and neglect.

In the 1970s and 80s, the Federal Government expanded teaching hospitals and established facilities across regions.

Following the Alma-Ata Declaration in 1978, the country embraced Primary Health Care (PHC) as the backbone of service delivery.

By 2001, African leaders, including Nigeria, signed the Abuja Declaration, pledging 15 per cent of national budgets to health.

Yet, more than two decades later, Nigeria still spends less than six per cent.

The National Health Insurance Scheme, inaugurated in 2005 and transformed into the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) in 2022, sought to improve financial access.

The Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), introduced in 2014, provided a lifeline for PHCs.

In spite of these efforts, underfunding, poor governance, and a haemorrhaging workforce remain persistent challenges.

Muyi Aina, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), said 901 PHCs had been fully revitalised, while 2,700 more were undergoing upgrades, with a target to reach all 17,000 wards nationwide by 2030.

He noted that for communities where women previously delivered babies under torchlight, skilled attendance at birth and timely referrals had been instituted.

Dr Kelechi Ohiri, Director General, NHIA, said enrolment under the scheme had grown from 16.7 million to about 20 million Nigerians.

According to him, special funds such as the Vulnerable Group Fund and the Catastrophic Fund provide financial cover for cancer treatment, dialysis, and other costly care.

‘In Lagos and Kaduna States, maternal deaths dropped by 58 per cent across 32 facilities under Project Aisha, a programme combining health worker training, midwifery kits, and free caesarean sections.

‘Nationally, more than six million pregnant women have received essential micronutrient supplements,’ he said.

Nigeria has rolled out the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine, expanded Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, and unveiled pilot programmes for the malaria vaccine; campaigns have averted outbreaks and improved coverage.

Training has also expanded, with enrolment into nursing programmes jumping from about 28,000 to more than 115,000 in just a few years.

More community health workers are being deployed to underserved areas.

In 2025, Nigeria allocated N2.48 trillion to health, just 5.18 per cent of the national budget.

This falls far below the 15 per cent Abuja Declaration target and remains inadequate to fund infrastructure, staff salaries, and essential medicines.

In spite of this, the country remains one of the most dangerous places to give birth.

According to UN estimates compiled from 2023 figures, no fewer than 82,000 women die annually from pregnancy-related causes, accounting for 19 per cent of global maternal deaths.

Life expectancy stands at around 55 years, well below the African average of 64 and far behind Ghana (64), Kenya (67), and South Africa (64).

The doctor-patient ratio in Nigeria is estimated at 1:5,000, compared to the WHO recommendation of 1:600.

Health spending per capita hovers around 55 dollars far short of the 86 dollars minimum recommended for delivering basic services.

Regional disparities remain stark; in northern Nigeria, women are more than twice as likely to die in childbirth as those in the South. In rural communities, many facilities operate with a single nurse, compared to urban centres where specialist care is available.

Wealth also determines survival; families with insurance or savings can afford treatment, while millions of poor households must sell assets or borrow to pay hospital bills.

Simon Agwale, the Chief Executive Officer of Innovative Biotech, warned issued a warning.

‘Equity must be put first.

‘This means tailoring interventions to the needs of northern states, rural communities, conflict-affected areas, and marginalised groups who are often left behind in national health programmes,’ Agwale said.

At a PHC in Kwali Area Council, Sarah Aso, a young mother of three, sits on a wooden bench clutching her malnourished toddler.

She narrated how she had walked four kilometres to the facility, only to find the nurse absent and essential drugs out of stock.

‘For me, health care is still a gamble,’ she said.

Meanwhile, at the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi, 32-year-old Ms Blessing Alaba undergoes chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Alaba explained that her treatment costs nearly a million naira, but under the new Catastrophic Fund, half her bills were subsidised.

‘Without this support, I would have given up,’ she said.

A young doctor at the same facility, who requested anonymity, said he was preparing to write exams for a licence abroad.

‘Most of my colleagues have left; we are passionate about serving, but the pay and conditions cannot sustain us,’ he said.

Nigeria’s underfunding of health persists despite repeated promises.

Critics ask why the Abuja 15 per cent pledge remains unmet, and why leakages in procurement and mismanagement of donor funds continue unchecked.

Civil society organisations argue that health financing must go beyond international donors.

Mercy Adeojo, founder of Women Strengthening Women (WSW), was frank.

‘Nigeria must commit domestic resources and address inequities head-on; donor-driven health gains are not sustainable,’ he said.

Muhammad Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, maintained that reforms were on course.

‘We are working to revitalise PHCs, expand insurance, and strengthen governance; the road is long, but we are determined,’ Pate said.

Dr Solomon Chollom, a virologist and public health expert, insisted that deliberate reforms must follow.

Chollom urged the government to move closer to the Abuja 15 per cent target, strengthen PHCs, and retain health workers by offering rural incentives and better working conditions.

Maimuna Abdullahi, a Health Economist with the African Health Budget Network (AHBN), provided further insights.

‘Expanding insurance so that coverage becomes truly universal, especially for the poor and vulnerable, is non-negotiable.

‘At the same time, prevention must be prioritised, clean water, sanitation, nutrition, and public health measures will save more lives than treatment alone,’ she said.

Stakeholders also point to new opportunities: digital health innovations, telemedicine to bridge urban-rural gaps, and Nigeria’s participation in the African Medicines Agency to boost local manufacturing.

At 65, Nigeria stands at a crossroads; the health sector has seen pockets of progress revitalised PHCs, expanded insurance coverage, and measurable reductions in maternal deaths in some areas. Yet systemic weaknesses continue to claim lives and deepen inequalities.

The nation’s founding vision of ‘health for all’ remains within reach, but only if bold reforms are sustained and matched with political will, adequate funding, and accountability.

‘A healthy nation is a wealthy nation,’ the saying goes.

For Nigeria, observers say the next decade will determine whether its health sector can finally deliver independence, a system that truly cares for its people

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed that Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has paid the hefty sanction fee imposed on it earlier this year for repeated breaches of consumer protection regulations.

The Moroccan flag carrier, singled out as the worst offender among foreign airlines operating in Nigeria, had been issued a fine following incessant reports of short-landed baggage and a repeated pattern of silence in the face of passenger complaints. While the airline has since improved its responsiveness to aggrieved customers, the NCAA disclosed that baggage-related issues continue to affect its operations, raising concerns about the carrier’s commitment to service quality.

In a virtual meeting convened recently, the NCAA sought to understand the underlying challenges facing Royal Air Maroc, but the regulator warned that its patience is running out. Officials hinted that more sanctions could follow if the airline fails to urgently resolve the recurring baggage lapses. ‘Business dictates a change of strategy when current methods are not delivering results’.

The authority advised the airline to rethink its approach to baggage management if it wishes to maintain credibility with Nigerian travellers.

Some of Nigeria’s most respected voices in religion, politics, and academia have thrown their weight behind a new book, Beneath the Surface, written by Dakuku Peterside. The book, which brings together essays and policy writings, has been praised as a powerful contribution to Nigeria’s search for good governance, national growth, and democratic stability. Those who endorsed the work include Catholic Bishop Matthew Kukah, former Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Professor Anya O. Anya, and Professor Kyari Mohammed. Their combined reputations cover decades of leadership in the church, government, science, history, and nation-building, giving the book a strong vote of confidence.

The four leaders are not just ordinary commentators. Bishop Kukah is known worldwide for speaking truth to power and defending democracy. Fayemi, besides serving as governor, is a respected scholar of war studies. Prof. Anya has led top scientific and economic institutions in Nigeria, while Prof. Mohammed is a renowned historian and former vice-chancellor of two universities. For such seasoned figures to unite in praising one book signals that Beneath the Surface is more than just another publication. It is being recognized as a roadmap for Nigeria’s future.

Bishop Kukah, who has authored books on politics, religion, and social responsibility, described Peterside’s work as a refreshing collection. In his words, the book is ‘a salad plate of exquisite writing’ that combines deep thought with engaging storytelling. He noted that it opens a new window for Nigerians to think about fresh options for the country’s progress. Kukah’s endorsement matters because he has long been a moral voice in Nigeria’s public life. His description of the book as ‘exciting and alluring’ suggests that readers will not only gain insights but also enjoy the writing style.

For Fayemi, who governed Ekiti State and also served as Minister of Solid Minerals, Peterside represents a rare blend of politician and intellectual. He said Peterside’s essays revive the tradition of leaders who think deeply about society rather than simply chasing power. According to Fayemi, the book highlights Nigeria’s weaknesses but also shows the ‘immense possibilities of building a nation where justice and peace prevail.’ He called it ‘a must-read,’ especially for anyone hoping to understand the roots of Nigeria’s challenges. Professor Anya, who once led the Nigerian Academy of Science and co-founded the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, praised the book for being both insightful and easy to read. He said Peterside’s wide experience in public service gives the essays a unique authority. At the same time, he noted that the book raises a painful but necessary question: why does Nigeria, despite having abundant talent and resources, continue to underperform? For Anya, the book does not just criticize-it pushes readers to reflect on the gap between Nigeria’s potential and its reality.

Mohammed, a respected historian and former university leader, described ‘Beneath the Surface’ as a ‘comprehensive exploration’ of Nigeria’s politics and society. He emphasized that Peterside avoids the trap of endless lamentation. Instead, the essays point out practical ways forward, offering guidance for policymakers, academics, and ordinary citizens. He concluded that the book is essential reading for anyone serious about Nigeria’s future.

At the heart of Beneath the Surface is Peterside’s attempt to answer why Nigeria struggles with governance, despite its human and natural wealth. The book compiles his most powerful essays, blending analysis with relatable storytelling. The themes span across politics, governance, economy, and social life. Peterside does not just point out problems but also suggests reforms. He stresses accountability, stronger institutions, and investment in human development as keys to unlocking Nigeria’s progress. By writing in a style that balances intellectual depth with clarity, Peterside makes the book accessible to different audiences: government officials, business leaders, students, scholars, and ordinary Nigerians curious about the forces shaping their nation.

Nigeria is at a critical point in its democratic journey. With rising economic pressures, security threats, and governance gaps, many citizens feel frustrated about the direction of the country. Books like Beneath the Surface tap into this frustration but also offer hope by laying out practical ideas for change. The endorsements from Kukah, Fayemi, Anya, and Mohammed show that the book is striking the right chords. Coming from leaders who have themselves faced Nigeria’s challenges firsthand, their praise gives weight to the argument that Peterside’s work deserves national attention.

JAC Motors, a leading Chinese truck manufacturer, has urged the federal government to fast-track the signing of Nigeria’s automotive policy into law, describing it as a critical move that will unlock foreign investments, deepen local assembly operations, and reduce reliance on imported used vehicles.

The call was made by Oscar Yu, general manager, JAC Motors, during a strategic visit to Lanre Shittu Motors’ JAC truck assembly plant located along the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway in Lagos.

Describing Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM) as a great partner, Yu praised the company’s efforts in assembling JAC trucks locally, amidst Nigeria’s economic challenges.

He stressed that a properly legislated automotive policy would attract more Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) into the country, enabling the production of affordable, brand-new trucks with better return on investment for buyers. ‘We are ready to work closely with the Nigerian government to grow the automotive sector. Signing the policy into law will help stabilise investors’ confidence and encourage more local assembly,’ Yu said.

He also highlighted the potential of Nigeria’s vast market of over 200 million people, noting that with the right policy environment, JAC could help bridge the gap between the dominance of used vehicles and the availability of affordable, high-quality new trucks.

Yu noted that continued importation of used vehicles hurts the economy by limiting job creation and undermining local production capacity.

‘Nigeria is a huge market with great potential. With local technical talent and a supportive government policy, the country can become a hub for truck manufacturing in West Africa,’ he added. On the partnership with Lanre Shittu Motors, Yu expressed satisfaction with the progress so far, pledging continued support in areas such as technical training, spare parts supply, and after-sales service.

‘We take care of our partners, customers, and staff. Our products are of high quality, and we believe that’s our biggest selling point. We’re happy with what LSM has done and are fully committed to growing this partnership,’ he affirmed. LSM recently commenced delivery of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered JAC trucks equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), among others, for maximum safety features.

Taiwo Shittu, managing director of Lanre Shittu Motors, in his remarks, described JAC as an exceptional partner.

‘JAC is the most supportive company we’ve worked with. They are sincere, respectful, and always deliver on their promises. They value our culture and treat us as true partners,’ he said.

Saheed Shittu, executive director of finance at LSM, called the visit by JAC’s top management historic and strategic, noting that it would further cement the relationship between both companies.

Lanre Shittu Motors assembles JAC heavy-duty and medium-duty trucks in Nigeria and has consistently won awards for its quality by the Nigeria Auto Journalists Awards.

‘We remain committed to providing customers with reliable automotive products, backed by strong after-sales service and genuine parts. This partnership is helping us achieve that,’ Saheed said.

The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), has awarded 235 accounting and finance professionals in Nigeria with their Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) certificates, and their CGMA designation at its 2025 convocation ceremony. The convocation ceremony held in Lagos at the weekend.

Acclaimed as the world’s leading and largest professional body of management accountants, CIMA training, which is recognised in over 170 countries, equips candidates with skills such as accounting knowledge, risk management, business leadership, decision-making, performance evaluation, and financial analysis that prepare them for senior management roles.

The 235 candidates will also benefit from the large global community of CGMA holders, granting them access to a global network of business and finance leaders as well as providing them with career support and continuous professional development.

Tariro Mutizwa, vice president – Africa, who was present at the certification ceremony, commended the candidates for their hard work, dedication and commitment to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve their CGMA. She assured them that the certification has paved the way for promising careers as they have been equipped to meet not only today’s business demands but also future business needs.

‘I am pleased to welcome a new generation of Nigerian accounting and finance professionals into our esteemed profession in Nigeria. Their dedication, hard work, and unrelenting commitment have paved the way for promising careers built on a solid foundation of knowledge and skill,’ Mutizwa said. ‘These future leaders are equipped not only to meet the demands of today’s business landscape but to shape what comes next, driving innovation, integrity, and excellence across their organisations. May their journey be marked by continuous growth, meaningful impact, and enduring success.’ Ijeoma Anadozie, country director of CIMA in Nigeria, was also full of praises for the candidates. The country director said the certification has positioned the candidates to seize a world of exciting professional opportunities.

‘Completing the CGMA Professional Qualification is a testament to our CGMA candidates’ commitment and passion. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of our Nigerian CGMA candidates on this outstanding achievement,’ Anadozie said.

According to the country director, ‘Earning the CGMA designation signifies that they are not only highly skilled and commercially astute, but also purpose-driven professionals who champion sustainable business performance and long-term value creation – positioning them to seize a world of exciting professional opportunities.’

Holders of CGMA can function across a broad spectrum of units in organisations as Risk Managers, Financial Analysts, Strategy Consultants, and Management Accounts, among other critical accounting and auditing roles.

Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) has reinforced its role as a trusted catalyst for market development by convening a high-level stakeholder dialogue on the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) provisions within the Tax Reform Act 2024, set to take effect in January 2026.

The virtual forum brought together issuers, investors, intermediaries, and regulators in a constructive exchange aimed at deepening understanding of the new tax regime while ensuring that market competitiveness remains a priority. The dialogue provided critical clarity on key provisions and created an avenue for stakeholders to share perspectives that will help shape implementation.

Speaking on the importance of resilience and investor confidence, Temi Popoola, GMD/CEO of NGX Group, noted: ‘Reforms of this scale raise important questions for issuers and investors alike. Our priority is to ensure the capital market remains attractive and forward-looking. By creating forums like this, we provide clarity, enable dialogue, and help the market adapt to fiscal changes in ways that support long-term growth.’ A key focus of the dialogue was the introduction of a 30 percent tax rate on gains from the disposal of shares-aligned with Nigeria’s corporate income tax. Participants emphasized the importance of ensuring Nigeria’s competitiveness compared with other African markets. Other issues raised included the determination of base cost, with recommendations for prospective calculation from the Act’s effective date, and the treatment of cross-listed securities, flagged as an area requiring careful guidance to avoid compliance complexity and double taxation.

Providing further clarity, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, explained that the reform is structured to protect retail investors, with a N150 million annual exemption threshold that places 99.9 percent of individual investors outside the scope of CGT. He added that while the standard rate is 30 percent, a reduced 25 percent CGT will apply when proceeds from share sales are reinvested in fixed income securities or other non-equity assets, whereas reinvestments into Nigerian companies – whether listed or unlisted – remain exempt. This, he emphasized, is designed to channel more capital into productive equity that drives growth, jobs, and long-term market sustainability.

Umaru Kwairanga, Chairman of NGX Group, highlighted the importance of NGX’s convening power: ‘At NGX Group, we believe that significant policy shifts must be clearly understood and calibrated to preserve market confidence. Our core function is to facilitate this essential engagement between policymakers and the market to ensure reforms translate into sustainable, long-term economic growth.’

Participants widely acknowledged the forum as timely and constructive, with NGX Group once again demonstrating leadership as a convener of solutions-driven dialogue. By facilitating this engagement, NGX Group has strengthened its position as an indispensable bridge between government and industry, ensuring that tax reforms are implemented in a manner that safeguards market vitality while supporting Nigeria’s broader economic goals.