NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
COAS backs Early Voting Bill for military, security personnel
Defence/Security

COAS backs Early Voting Bill for military, security personnel

198 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has declared his support for the early voting bill introduced by the Senate for military and security personnel deployed during elections.

Oluyede expressed the support of the army for the bill at a meeting with the Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Sen. Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC-Katsina state) in Abuja on Thursday.

He said that the job of the army on Election Day in collaboration with sister security agencies, was to create an enabling environment for Nigerians to exercise their franchise freely.

According to him, the army has been doing very well in support of the lead agency which is the Police and they have not had time to exercise their own franchise.

“The bill is actually long overdue, it is a laudable effort by the senator and we appreciate you; you have all our support for all the bills.

“As an army, we will support you as much as possible and for the programmes you have highly noted, be sure we will be well represented,” he said.

The chief, however, urged the crafters of the legislation to put measures in place to avoid impersonation and to enhance communication among security agencies and other essential workers.

He commended the senator for all the support for the army and the legislative support

Earlier, Yar’Adua said that the aim of the visit was to solicit the support of the army for three bills currently under consideration in the National Assembly.

He said that the bills generally seek to strengthen the army forces and deepen its democratic participation in the country.

“The bills are, the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, the Arm Forces Trust Fund Amendment Bill and the Arm Forces Act Repeal and Reenactment Bill.

“I am here basically to seek your support and the partnership in the passage of the bills,” he said.

The senator said that the Electoral Act Amendment Bill was necessary to address the number of eligible Nigerians that are disenfranchised because of essential duties.

According to him, we have close to two million Nigerians who work on election day from the military, INEC staff, Ad hoc staff, NYSC corps members, security agents, journalists and election observers.

Yar’Adua recalled that during the 2023 general elections, the Nigerian Army deployed 95 per cent of its personnel for election related security issues.

He said that together with the Department of State Security (DSS) the military deployed 93,495 personnel.

The lawmaker said that the police deployed 310,973 personnel, the NYSC deployed 200,000 corps members while the National Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) deployed 81,000 personnel.

He said the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) deployed 21,000 personnel, the Nigerian Correctional Centre (NCC) deployed 11,336 officers, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) deployed 350 operatives while National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) deployed 9,447 personnel.

Yar’Adua said that when the numbers are put together and added to the number of election observers, it would be enough to determine the outcome of an election.

He said that the wide disenfranchisement raised concerns given the declining voter turnout saying that in 2015, voter turnout was 4.7 per cent, in 2019 it dropped 34.7 per cent and in 2023, 27. 3 per cent.

“To allow early voting for military personnel , it is not only a matter of fairness, it is a necessary step to restore confidence, engage young Nigerians and uphold the principle that says those who defend our democracy should not be excluded from it.

“I wish to encourage the Nigerian Army to collaborate with INEC in identifying eligible personnel to vote,” he said.

On his part, the Coordinator, Centre for Legislative Engagement, YIAGA-Africa, Dr Sam Ogwuche said that the bill was apt and timely.

He said that election is the hallmark of democracy and all Nigerians should be able to vote as it is a civic responsibility.

He said that YIAGA-Africa and many other stakeholders at the forefront of canvassing for increased citizen participation were in support of the bill. (NAN) 

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

NGF backs constitutional role for traditional rulers
Politics

NGF backs constitutional role for traditional rulers

228 total views today

By Naomi Sharang

Gov. Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the Joint Committee of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and National Council of Traditional Rulers (NCTR), has pledged the Forum’s support for the establishment of the council.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, Uzodimma addressed journalists following the Forum’s meeting on the proposed bill to establish the NCTR..

He affirmed the NGF’s commitment to ensuring the bill’s passage, which is currently before the National Assembly.

“With the bill now at second reading in the Senate, this meeting offers a timely platform to refine our collective stance,” he said.

He stressed the need for the bill’s provisions to reflect real conditions and practical governance realities across communities.

Uzodimma, who is also the Imo Governor, said the amendment offers an opportunity to embed traditional institutions in the nation’s governance framework.

He noted that including traditional rulers in State and National Security Councils is not merely symbolic but both strategic and long overdue.

“Last year, the NGF held a special meeting with the NCTRN to discuss involving traditional rulers in rural governance and administration,” he recalled.

He added that the ongoing constitutional amendment process presents a chance to recognise and assign defined responsibilities to traditional institutions.

He also revealed that a subcommittee comprising NGF and NCTRN members was formed as a result of that meeting.

The subcommittee developed proposals to strengthen traditional rulers’ constitutional roles and to secure NGF’s support for their inclusion in the amendment.

Uzodimma said the latest meeting featured presentations from the subcommittee, which nearly secured full support from Forum members.

He stated: “Our final report will go to the wider NGF board for consideration and possible adoption.

“If adopted, we will liaise with the National Assembly to ensure inclusion in the constitutional alteration.”

Uzodimma emphasised that the meeting came at a time of rising security challenges and weakening community bonds in some regions.

He said the government is committed to peace and stability, and this demands more than centralised responses.

“Community-driven solutions must be part of the strategy, drawing on the authority and influence of traditional rulers,” he noted.

He reiterated that the proposed amendment gives Nigeria a chance to integrate traditional institutions into formal governance structures.

Uzodimma stated: “Tackling insecurity should start at the grassroots. Traditional leaders are well-placed to warn early, reconcile disputes and support state actions.” (NAN)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Insecurity: Senate drafting law on state police, says  Bamidele
General News

Insecurity: Senate drafting law on state police, says  Bamidele

260 total views today

Police
By Naomi Sharang

The Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, has disclosed that the National Assembly is in the process of developing legal frameworks for the creation of state police.

He said that the establishment of the state police will serve as part of measures to address insecurity in the country..

Bamidele made this known on Sunday in a statement in Abuja through his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs.

He also celebrated with Christians worldwide to mark Easter asking leaders across boards to shun divisive agenda and narratives that could compound the country’s challenges.

Bamidele urged Nigerians at large “to consciously reflect on the virtues of Jesus Christ; learn from His consecration and live His life of purpose rooted in the pursuit of justice love and redemption for humanity”.

” In spite of the animosity He suffered and opposition He faced, Jesus Christ consciously sought and secured freedom for the captives, peace for the troubled, comfort for the sorrowful, love for the dejected, justice for the oppressed and hope for those who are in despair.

“In Nigeria today, Christ’s example clearly presents us a glimpse of how we should live together.

“As compatriots and not competitors, collaborators and not combatants, comrades and not contenders in the task of building a viable and virile federation that will serve the interest of all.

“The recent killings in Benue and Plateau states outrightly negated the virtues of peace and love that Jesus Christ taught during His days.

“The recurrent utterances by some political and sectional figures also belied the values of courage, perseverance and tolerance He evidently lived for.

“No country develops as a result of one section rising up against another vice versa.

“The Authority of the National Assembly is in the process of developing legal frameworks for the establishment of state police as one of the measures to address insecurity in the country.

“We urge security agencies to work together as a team to track and apprehend all the masterminds and sponsors of terror attacks nationwide.

“We appeal to some political actors that always lash on the country’s challenges to push divisive narratives to learn from the example of Jesus Christ.

“Such actors are no longer playing opposition politics, but simply taking advantage of the country’s internal conditions in the pursuit of their own parochial political outcomes”.

He further said that Nigeria is our ultimate project and as a parliament, we are committed to the actualisation of this project.

“This is evident in all the legislative initiatives we are pushing since the birth of the 10th National Assembly. And our goal is to build a federation that will be noted for peace, progress and prosperity anywhere in the world.

“Regardless of their ethnicity, politics and religion, all actors should shun all forms of divisive utterance and join forces against the common foes of Nigeria and not to subvert our effort to build a strong and virile federation”.

NAN reports a State Police Bill, was sponsored by a former Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu (PDP, Enugu).

The bill seeks to establish the Federal Police, State Police, National Police Service Commission, National Police Council, and State Police Service Commission for the states.

It was first introduced to the eighth Senate on June 12, 2018 but did not scale through. Ekweremadu was the chairman of the constitution review committee at the time.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza

NUJ to sponsor media welfare enhancement bill
General News

NUJ to sponsor media welfare enhancement bill

219 total views today

By Joan Nwagwu

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced plans to sponsor the Media Professionals Welfare Enhancement Bill aimed at improving the welfare of its members.

The National President of NUJ, Mr Alhassan Abdulahi, said this during the 2025 Easter Cantata Concert held in Abuja on Tuesday

The concert organised by the NUJ FCT Council, is themed, “Renewal and Hope: Harnessing the Transformation Power of Unity and Progress.”

Abdulahi said that senior colleagues within the profession were working on a media enhancement bill that would soon be presented to the National Assembly for consideration.

He expressed hope that if the bill were passed, it would mark a new beginning for journalism in Nigeria, with improved remuneration for journalists.

He also urged journalists to reflect spiritually during the Easter period and adopt a spirit of forgiveness.

Additionally, he appealed to journalists to prioritise national unity and security issues to ensure a peaceful Nigeria.

Rep. Leke Abejide, Chairman of the House Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise, emphasised that NUJ plays a crucial role in the Renewed Hope Agenda, which sought to transform Nigeria into a unified and prosperous nation.

He commended the current administration for its efforts to drive economic development and create a hopeful future for the country.

Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) emphasised the importance of journalists embodying the values of unity and transformation in their reporting.

Ali was represented by Mr Kayode Olaitan, Director of Planning Research and Statistics at NAN.

Ms. Grace Ike, Chairman of NUJ FCT, highlighted that unity was a key driver of progress and urged journalists to use their unique role to share stories that inspire, educate, and unite communities.

Ike said that unity was a catalyst for progress, as it was the foundation on which progress was built.

“It is the glue that holds us together, allowing us to face challenges with strength and resilience.

“As journalists, we have a unique role in promoting unity by sharing stories that inspire, educate, and unite our communities,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

PANDEF urges Tinubu to sign South-South Devt. Commission Bill
General News

PANDEF urges Tinubu to sign South-South Devt. Commission Bill

467 total views today

By Naomi Sharang

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to sign the bill for the creation of South-South Development Commission.

PANDEF, the apex socio-political body of the South-South geo-political zone, made the call in a communiqué at the end of an emergency meeting of the Board of Trustees (BOT), held in Abuja on Monday.

National spokesman of PANDEF, Obiuwevbi Ominimini read the communiqué on behalf of the National Chairman, Dr Godknows Igali.

“The bill, after passage by the National Assembly was submitted at the same time as other geo-political zone’s commissions bill to the President, but ours is yet to be assented to.

“We subscribe to the desirability of having a development commission for all the six geo-political zones of the country without exception and therefore, views the withholding of assent as a grave oversight or error, capable of creating a feeling of exclusion and dejection on the part of the people of the South-South.

“The delay in assenting to this bill leaves the South-South zone orphaned within the broader context of regional development commissions which include the North-East Development Commission, the North-West Development Commission, South-West Development Commission and North-Central Development Commission,’’ he said.

The group further said that the delay in signing of this bill could have a negative impact on the present state of peace which exists in the Niger Delta.

“PANDEF BOT therefore, calls on the President to remedy the oversight which has resulted in the delay to assent to this bill and sign it into an Act without delay.

“The bill for the creation of  South-South Development Commission is different from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

“The NDDC was established by law in 2000 to mitigate issues affecting the oil mineral producing communities.

“Hence, the NDDC has its own specific funding formula and modus operandi.

“The meeting therefore, strongly recommended that the name, Niger Delta Development Commission, which could become a misnomer, should revert to its earlier designation as Oil Mineral Production Areas Development Commission.

“This will distinguish it and prevent any confusion between it and the newly created South-South Development Commissions”.(NAN)

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu and Benson Iziama

Bill on Port Economic Regulation ‘ll enhance efficiency – Shippers Council
Economy/Business

Bill on Port Economic Regulation ‘ll enhance efficiency – Shippers Council

362 total views today

By Diana Omueza

The Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), says the Bill on Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency currently awaiting presidential assent will enhance efficiency at the ports and  boost  export.

Dr Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary of the council,  said this on Thursday in Abuja,  after receiving a delegation from the Technical Unit on Governance and Anti-corruption Reforms (TUGAR).

Akutah said that with a new law and a new regulatory agency responsible for port enforcement, there would be enhanced ports, clearly defined mandates of agencies and issues of overlap of duties would be addressed.

“Over the years, there has been a battle with the issue of a legal regime that guarantees the council’s capacity to act as a proper regulator in the sector.

“The minister has taken a step forward, and the bill that was taken to the national assembly for the enactment of the Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency has been passed at the Senate and House of Representatives.

“At the moment, the bill awaits presidential assent and in that bill, enforcement issues were critically dealt with,” he said.

Akutah said the bill when assented to would empower oversight committees with adequate supervisory and enforcement powers.

According to him, with the new bill coming on board, and a new agency with all the enforcement powers in the law, it will further enhance the quality of work of the committee.

Akutah noted that the steering committee such as the Port Standing Task Team (PSTT) which oversaw issues around enforcement of the manual as it related to all agencies within the port sector, as well as the private sector needed to be commended.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the PSTT is a group that works to ensure compliance with the Nigerian Port Process Manual and to promote integrity in the maritime sector.

Akutah lauded the efforts of other committees that had worked to enhance the council’s service delivery and called for appointment of sufficient members to each team for adequate management.

Akutah also commended TUGAR for its inter-agency collaboration and removal of rivalry between agencies of government at the ports.

He expressed satisfaction with the synergy between agencies working together, supporting and complementing each other to achieve collective and individual agency mandates.

He urged heads of agencies to continue to strive to improve the sector to build the nation’s economy.

On his part, the Representative of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Olusanya Immanuel commended NSC on working toward enhanced service delivery in ports.

“We are glad to see your level of commitment to the success of this project and of course, the sensitisation of the entire maritime sector.”

Ms Jane Onwumere, Head,  Technical Unit of TUGAR also commended the  shipper’s council for the synergy and partnership which had improved the efficiency of Nigeria’s port operations. (NAN)

Edited by Edith Bolokor/Chioma Ugboma

NCDC Bill ‘ll address infrastructural challenges in North Central – Sen. Mustapha
Politics

NCDC Bill ‘ll address infrastructural challenges in North Central – Sen. Mustapha

400 total views today

By Naomi Sharang

Sen. Saliu Mustapha (APC – Kwara Central), has stated that the newly signed North Central Development Commission (NCDC) Bill will help address the region’s infrastructural challenges.

Mustapha, who chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, made the remarks in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that President Bola Tinubu had signed the bill into law on Tuesday, officially establishing the NCDC.

Mustapha expressed satisfaction with the development, noting that the North Central region now joined other geopolitical zones in having a dedicated regional development commission aimed at addressing infrastructural deficits and fostering sustainable growth.

According to him, with the signing of the bill into law, President Tinubu has demonstrated a commitment to equitable national development.

He also extended his gratitude to the governors of the North Central states, particularly Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, for their political support in ensuring the successful passage of the bill.

Mustapha further acknowledged the role played by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, in making the vision of the commission a reality.

“The establishment of the commission is a significant milestone in our region’s history

“It will serve as a catalyst for development, addressing the unique challenges facing the zone, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, security, and economic growth.

“I am confident that this commission will bring lasting benefits to our people,” Mustapha said.

NAN reports that similar bills for regional development commissions have already been signed into law for the South-West, North-West, and South-East regions by President Tinubu..(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

NEC recommends withdrawal of tax reforms bill
General News

NEC recommends withdrawal of tax reforms bill

579 total views today

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The National Economic Council (NEC) has advised that the Tax Reforms Bill, currently before the National Assembly, be withdrawn.

This recommendation was made on Thursday, following the council’s 145th meeting in Abuja.

Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo, explained that the NEC noted the need for sufficient alignment among stakeholders regarding the proposed tax reforms.

He cited the prevalence of miscommunication and misinformation surrounding the bill, emphasising the need for wider consultation and consensus building.

Makinde said the council acknowledged the country’s underperformance in major revenue sources.

He said the council also considered the Presidential Committee on Physical Policy and Tax Reforms presentation of a report focusing on fair taxation, responsible borrowing, and sustainable spending.

Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, also affirmed the council’s advice to withdraw the bill to allow for consensus building.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Tax Reforms Bill, endorsed by President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council, seeks to enhance Nigeria’s tax administration efficiency and eliminate redundancies.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

X
Welcome to NAN
Need help? Choose an option below and let me be your assistant.
Email SubscriptionSite SearchSend Us Email