News Agency of Nigeria
‎Rivers: Tinubu brokers peace between Wike, Fubara
Politics

‎Rivers: Tinubu brokers peace between Wike, Fubara

By Muhyideen Jimoh
‎
President Bola Tinubu, on Thursday night, hosted a high-stakes reconciliation meeting between suspended Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
‎
‎The closed-door meeting, held at the State House in Abuja, included Rivers Assembly Speaker Martins Amaewhule, lawmakers, and key political stakeholders.
‎
‎This latest peace meeting is seen as a last-ditch attempt by the presidency to end the political feud in the state.

President Bola Tinubu with Rivers political leaders at a meeting held at the State House on Thursday night.

‎
‎Wike, in brief remarks after the meeting, said that all parties had agreed to work together in the interest of the state.
‎
‎”We have all agreed to work together with the governor, and the governor also agreed to work together with all of us. We are members of the same political family,” Wike said.
‎
‎Fubara, on his part, thanked President Tinubu for initiating the reconciliation talks, emphasising the importance of peace for the state’s development.
‎
‎”For me, it’s a day we have to thank Almighty God. For me, is it very important that this day has come to be.
‎
‎”What we need for the progress of Rivers State is peace and by the special grace of God this night, with the help of Mr President and the agreement of the leaders of the state,  peace has returned in River States,” Fubara said.
‎
‎It will be recalled that President Tinubu had on March 18 declared a state of emergency in the state, suspending Fubara, his deputy, and all the State House of Assembly members.(NAN) (www.nannrws.ng)

‎Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu urges national movement against drug abuse
General News

Tinubu urges national movement against drug abuse

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu has called on all Nigerians to join the fight against drug abuse and trafficking, describing it as a national movement beyond government efforts.

 

Tinubu made the call during his keynote speech at the 2025 World Drug Day event on Thursday at the State House, Abuja.

 

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, the President stressed the need for collective national action.

 

“This fight is not for governments alone. It must be a movement led by families, faith leaders, civil society, youth groups, and communities,” Tinubu said.

 

He emphasised the importance of people with lived experience, saying their stories inspire and their leadership is vital.

 

He noted that drug abuse is linked to poverty, inequality, violence, and conflict and must be addressed comprehensively.

 

“We must foster peace, promote inclusive development and protect human rights at every stage,” Tinubu said.

 

He reaffirmed that tackling root causes like poverty and conflict is key to curbing drug abuse.

 

The President pledged Nigeria’s commitment to international efforts against illicit drug trafficking and abuse.

 

“Together, we can dismantle systems sustaining this crisis and build a future of prevention, treatment, and celebrated recovery,” he added.

 

Tinubu said his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda has prioritised drug control over the past two years.

 

He also praised NDLEA Chairman, Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd.), for his global success in disrupting drug networks.

 

Earlier, Marwa warned of the urgency of prevention due to Nigeria’s high abuse rate and youthful population.

 

He recalled a 2018 survey which exposed Nigeria’s alarmingly high drug abuse prevalence.

 

“With over 230 million people, prevention is now a pragmatic national priority,” Marwa said.

 

He urged parents and community leaders to shield children from exposure to illicit substances.

 

He said drug experimentation cuts across all social and economic backgrounds and affects young people disproportionately.

 

Marwa noted the NDLEA is intensifying prevention and supply-reduction strategies nationwide.

 

He stressed the need to address socio-economic factors that drive drug abuse to achieve lasting progress.

 

He revealed the agency has made major arrests and seizures across the country.

 

“We have arrested 66,085 suspects, including 94 drug barons, and seized over 11 million kilogrammes of drugs,” he said.

 

Marwa added that over 12,000 convictions have been secured, with some traffickers receiving life sentences.

 

UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Toure, said prevention and recovery must be national priorities.

 

“They are life-saving investments that break the cycle of abuse, crime, and marginalisation,” Toure said.

 

Attorney General and Justice Minister, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, said drug abuse threatens public health and national security.

 

He warned that trafficking and organised crime undermine the rule of law and endanger youths’ futures.

 

The event was attended by representatives of NDLEA, security agencies, academia, diplomats, and traditional leaders.

 

World Drug Day is observed globally every June 26 to promote action against drug abuse and trafficking. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Tinubu signs 4 tax reform bills into law
Economy/Business

Tinubu signs 4 tax reform bills into law

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has signed four landmark tax reform bills into law, marking what he called a bold new era of economic governance.

‎The brief ceremony was held on Thursday at the State House, Abuja, with the leadership of the National Assembly led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, in attendance.

‎The four new Acts are the Nigeria Tax Bill (Fair Taxation), Tax Administration Bill, Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill.

‎Tinubu emphasised that the reforms are not just administrative but will reshape the nation’s tax landscape for the better.

‎He said the new laws introduce Nigeria’s first major pro-people tax cuts in decades, aimed at reducing the burden on ordinary citizens.

“What we did few minutes ago is the way forward for our country revolution.

“Leadership must help the people to take off , lead the way on every turn twist and thorns of the road, you must help them get to their destination,” he said.

‎The President noted that the new laws will provide targeted relief for low-income earners, small businesses, and struggling families, helping them retain more of their hard-earned income.

‎According to Tinubu, the policy will unify Nigeria’s fragmented tax system, and eliminate overlapping functions across agencies.

‎He said that the reforms are designed to boost investor confidence, enhance transparency, and foster better coordination among tax authorities at all levels.

“We are in transit we have changed some of the misgivings . we have open the door for new economy and business opportunities.

“We are showing that Nigerian is  truly ready and open for business,” he said.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the President  transmitted the proposed legislation to the National Assembly on October 3, 2024. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Tinubu to sign 4 tax bills into law, Thursday ‎
Economy/Business

Tinubu to sign 4 tax bills into law, Thursday ‎

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu will on Thursday sign into law, four critical tax reform bills aimed at transforming Nigeria’s fiscal and revenue framework.

‎The Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the bills are: The Nigeria Tax Bill, The Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, The Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill

‎The bills were passed by the National Assembly following extensive consultations with various interest groups and stakeholders.

‎Onanuga said once enacted, the new tax laws are expected to significantly improve tax administration in the country.

He said they are also projected to enhance revenue generation, improve the business environment, and boost both domestic and foreign investment.

‎According to him, the Nigeria Tax Bill (Ease of Doing Business), aims to consolidate Nigeria’s fragmented tax laws into a harmonised statute

He said by reducing the multiplicity of taxes and eliminating duplications, the bill seeks to enhance the ease of doing business and reduce taxpayer compliance burdens.

‎”The Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the second piece of legislation, will establish a uniform legal and operational framework for tax administration across the federal, state, and local governments.

“‎The third bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, repeals the existing Federal Inland Revenue Service Act and establishes a more autonomous, performance-driven national revenue agency— the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS).

‎The fourth bill, the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill, provides for a formal governance structure to foster cooperation between revenue authorities at all levels of government.

‎It will also introduce essential oversight mechanisms, including the establishment of a Tax Appeal Tribunal and an Office of the Tax Ombudsman,” he said

Onanuga said the historic signing ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, will be witnessed by the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

‎Other attendees will include the Senate Majority Leader, the House Majority Leader, the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Finance.

‎The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and the Attorney General of the Federation will also be in attendance (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Tinubu congratulates Sanwo-Olu at 60
Politics

Tinubu congratulates Sanwo-Olu at 60

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State as he celebrates his 60th birthday on Wednesday.

The congratulatory message is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja by Presidential spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga.

Sanwo-Olu, who rose through the political ranks under Tinubu’s mentorship, currently serves as the sixth democratically elected governor of Nigeria’s commercial capital.

Before taking the reins of Lagos, Sanwo-Olu held prominent roles in public service, including Managing Director of the Lagos State Property Development Corporation.

His career also includes stints as Commissioner in three vital ministries — Economic Planning and Budget; Commerce and Industry; and Establishments, Training and Pensions.

Tinubu commended Sanwo-Olu’s alignment with the master plan laid during his own governorship from 1999 to 2007, calling him a steady hand steering Lagos on a forward path.

“Your execution of this vision is demonstrated by key accomplishments such as the completion of the Blue and Red Rail lines, and the active preparations for the Purple Line, which is set to serve the vital Lekki corridor.

“I urge you to sustain this trajectory by
prioritising impactful projects for Lagosians.

“Particularly, focus on impactful projects that matter to Lagosians—especially the long-anticipated Fourth Mainland Bridge and the Freedom Way to Victoria Garden City (VGC) Road.” Tinubu said.

The President wished the governor good health and longevity, expressing confidence that his administration will continue to improve the lives of Lagosians.

“I also wish you continued good health, longevity, and many more years of invaluable service to Lagos State and Nigeria,” Tinubu added.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

India High Commissioner advocates yoga for health, wellness
Health

India High Commissioner advocates yoga for health, wellness

By Sarafina Christopher

Acting Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ms. Vartika Rawat, urged communities to embrace yoga for physical vitality, mental clarity, and environmental harmony.

Speaking at the 11th International Yoga Day in Abuja, themed “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” Rawat highlighted yoga’s holistic power to heal.

The  term “Yoga,” derived from the Sanskrit “Yuj,” means “to unite”—symbolising the fusion of body, mind, and environment in one integrated practice.

Rawat said since 2015, Yoga Day has become a global movement, enhancing physical health and nurturing mental resilience across cultures.

This year’s theme, she noted, underlines how personal well-being and planetary health are deeply interconnected and mutually dependent.

“Yoga teaches us balance—not just within, but in how we relate to the Earth,” she said.

In today’s high-pressure world, she said, yoga offers peace, healing, and a vital counter to stress and lifestyle diseases.

“Regular practice boosts flexibility, strength, balance, heart health, and immunity—helping the body thrive,” she added.

Rawat also spotlighted yoga’s success in managing chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension, through mindfulness and breath control.

The high commissioner emphasised the importance of inclusivity in yoga, urging the Nigerian government to ensure that the benefits of this practice are accessible to everyone.

“By democratising yoga, we empower individuals to take charge of their health, which is essential for building a healthy nation,” she said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna/Yakubu Uba

Nigeria, Denmark to deepen ties on livestock devt, education — Tinubu
Foreign , General News

Nigeria, Denmark to deepen ties on livestock devt, education — Tinubu

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday in Abuja expressed Nigeria’s readiness to deepen ties with Denmark in livestock development, agribusiness, and educational cooperation.

The President stated this at the State House while receiving Queen Mary
Elizabeth of Denmark, who is visiting Nigeria as Patron of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the visit marks the Queen’s
first visit to Nigeria.

Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, emphasised the need to expand Nigeria’s dairy and livestock economy to ensure food security and tackle poverty.

He said the sector holds vast potential for job creation and rural growth, especially with Nigeria’s rapidly growing population.

The President expressed optimism that investment, education, and modernisation will help curtail the protracted herder-farmer conflicts in the country.

“We can transform friction into structured economic opportunity and build education pathways for farmers and herders,” he said.

“We can stabilise communities, grow food systems, and lift millions out of poverty,” Tinubu said.

President Bola Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, presenting a gift to
Queen Mary Elizabeth of Denmark, at the State House, Abuja on Tuesday

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s demographic strategy as a pillar of foreign policy, aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The President said targeted investments in agriculture, education, healthcare, and jobs are crucial as Nigeria approaches a projected 400 million population by 2050.

He highlighted ongoing macroeconomic reforms and urged for foreign investments that boost local production and employment.

The President acknowledged Danish contributions to agriculture and maritime infrastructure in Nigeria.

He specifically lauded companies like A.P. Moller–Maersk and Grundfos for supporting Nigeria’s infrastructure and food security.

Tinubu also praised Denmark’s humanitarian support for internally displaced persons in conflict-affected regions.

He expressed hope for stronger cooperation as Denmark assumes the EU Council Presidency and joins the UN Security Council in 2025–2026.

On the social front, Tinubu welcomed Denmark’s partnership with Nigeria’s First Lady on school feeding and reducing out-of-school children.

Queen Mary Elizabeth of Denmark”s visit to Nigeria, on Tuesday, at State House, Abuja

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, in her brief remarks, stressed the importance of integrating traditional Islamic schools into Nigeria’s formal education system.

Responding, Queen Mary thanked the President and First Lady for their warm welcome and expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in Nigeria’s northeast.

She said her visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and explore investment in green energy, women-led businesses, and child health initiatives.

The Queen also emphasised enhancing cultural and educational exchanges between Denmark and Nigeria.

She praised the First Lady’s efforts to empower women and families through the Renewed Hope Initiative Programme.

Denmark, she noted, has maintained a strong development partnership with Nigeria, especially in humanitarian aid for displaced populations.

NAN reports that Queen Mary is scheduled to visit A.P. Moller–Maersk’s Lagos terminal as part of her visit to Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Brazilian vice president arrives Nigeria for strategic engagement
Foreign

Brazilian vice president arrives Nigeria for strategic engagement

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Vice President of Brazil, Geraldo Alckmin and his wife, Maria Alckmin, on Tuesday arrived Nigeria for the  commencement of the Second Session of the Nigeria-Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism (SDM).

On arrival at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the delegation was received by Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Sen. Ibrahim Hadejia and Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole.

Other government officials that received the delegation are the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari; among others.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the high-profile visit, represents a watershed in Nigeria’s South-South diplomatic engagement.

It is expected to yield significant policy breakthroughs across multiple sectors.

Speaking at a brief reception at the airport, Hadejia described the visit as “a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

He emphasised the strategic importance of deepening ties with Brazil.

“This dialogue mechanism represents our commitment to leveraging South-South partnerships that deliver tangible benefits to our citizens.

“Brazil’s expertise in agribusiness, energy transition, and industrial development aligns perfectly with Nigeria’s transformation priorities and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.”

The three-day summit will culminate in the signing of over 30 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) across critical sectors.

The sectors include;, defence cooperation, agricultural technology transfer, energy collaboration, and cultural exchange programmes. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Group applauds FG on consumer credit access
General News

Group applauds FG on consumer credit access

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV), have applauded the Federal Government for easing access to consumer credit through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP).

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Chukwudi Enekwechi, the group noted that more than 100,000 Nigerians had already benefited from the initiative within just one year.

Enekwechi commended the Tinubu-led administration for the programme, which he said would significantly improve Nigerians’ living standards.

“It is remarkable that CREDICORP, as an initiative of the Tinubu administration, aims to raise the social status of many Nigerians by granting access to credit, something that was previously unthinkable.

“Out of the 100,201 beneficiaries, 35,000 are civil servants.

“Items accessed through the scheme include vehicles, solar home systems, digital devices, home improvement products, equipment and machinery, and other essential consumer goods.

“This is a major breakthrough in a country where access to formal credit facilities has long been a challenge,” he said.

The chairman, however, emphasised that for consumer credit to make a significant economic impact, it must grow to 50 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

He expressed satisfaction that the administration had taken the first step toward institutionalising the scheme, which he believed would also promote local production.

“We acknowledge that the initiative aligns with the administration’s vision to support local production of goods and vehicles.

“It will also help curb corruption by reducing desperation caused by financial hardship, and represents a deliberate policy to empower Nigerians with tools for an improved quality of life.

“To us, this is a life-changing programme that can greatly uplift the livelihoods of millions, and we commend the President for setting the ball rolling,” he added.

The group urged the managers of the scheme to scale up efforts to ensure broader participation, both by consumers and service providers.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that CREDICORP’s Managing Director, Uzoma Nwagba, recently announced plans to link Nigerians’ credit scores to their National Identification Numbers (NIN), aiming to create a unified and transparent credit system nationwide.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Presidency debunks Lamido’s June 12 claims
Politics

Presidency debunks Lamido’s June 12 claims

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Presidency has strongly denied claims made by former Jigawa Governor, Sule Lamido, about President Bola Tinubu’s role in the annulled June 12, 1993 election.

 

In a statement titled ‘Setting the Record Straight’, Presidential spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, dismissed Lamido’s comments as false, revisionist, and historically dishonest.

 

Lamido had claimed during a television interview that Tinubu supported the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

 

“Alhaji Lamido’s claims represent a distortion of history and a regrettable attempt at revisionism,” Onanuga said.

 

Lamido alleged that Tinubu only gained prominence after NADECO was formed and claimed Tinubu’s mother backed the annulment.

 

The former Jigawa governor also claimed Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, Tinubu’s mother, mobilised market women to support the annulment of the election.

 

“These allegations are patently false,” Onanuga stated.

 

Onanuga insisted that Alhaja Mogaji never mobilised market women in support of the annulment.

 

“Had she done so, she would have lost her position as market leader in Lagos,” he added.

 

Onanuga acknowledged her relationship with Babangida but said it existed before the annulment crisis.

 

The Presidential aide accused Lamido of failing to defend MKO Abiola’s mandate as SDP National Secretary.

 

“Lamido, as SDP Secretary, failed to oppose the military’s injustice after Abiola’s election victory,” he said.

 

“The SDP leadership, including Lamido and Tony Anenih, shamefully surrendered the people’s mandate without resistance.

 

“Lamido and Anenih allied with the defeated NRC to deny Abiola his rightful mandate,” Onanuga alleged.

 

In contrast, Onanuga said Tinubu, who was then a senator, stood firm before Gen. Sani Abacha dissolved democratic structures on Nov. 17, 1993.

 

“Following Babangida’s decision to step aside on Aug. 27, 1993, Tinubu strongly opposed the annulment.

 

“On 19 Aug. 19, 1993, on the Senate floor, Tinubu condemned the annulment, calling it another coup d’état,” Onanuga stated.

 

He urged Nigerians then to resist injustice and lawlessness.

 

Tinubu, then representing Lagos West, said the annulment constituted another unconstitutional seizure of power.

 

“We cannot keep tolerating injustice and coup d’état from those funded by public money,” Tinubu warned.

 

Tinubu described the political crisis as self-inflicted, caused by the annulment of a free and fair election.

 

He said the government violated its own decree, committing a grave offence against its people.

 

Onanuga highlighted Tinubu’s major role in NADECO and international efforts like NALICON led by Prof. Wole Soyinka.

 

He said Tinubu’s backing of NADECO and other pro-democracy movements was crucial in challenging military dictatorship.

 

“Tinubu was a central figure in the June 12 struggle and a consistent supporter of democracy,” Onanuga added.

 

He said many NADECO leaders and journalists credited Tinubu for funding and sustaining the resistance.

 

Onanuga dismissed Lamido’s narrative as part of a political agenda from a so-called ‘Coalition of the Disgruntled’.

 

“The facts remain: Tinubu was — and remains — a defender of democracy, unlike Lamido, who capitulated,” Onanuga said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

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