Online Publishers, under the umbrella of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), are happy with the return of their colleague, Dr. Hassan Gimba, from Saudi Arabia where he went for medical treatment for a couple of months. The Deputy President of GOCOP, who doubles as Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of Newsdiaryonline, Danlami Nmodu, mni, in celebrating the return of Dr. Gimba in Abuja, expressed delight in seeing him hale and hearty. Nmodu, representing GOCOP on a visit to Dr. Gimba, who is Publisher/CEO of Neptune Prime online newspaper, appreciated God for a safe sojourn of the publisher from Saudi Arabia, and for keeping him well, with renewed strength and agility. He said that the return of the Publisher/CEO is a proof of God’s faithfulness, acknowledging that Dr. Gimba is now endowed with vigour, resilience and ready-to-go spirit. The GOCOP Deputy President applauded the unwavering trait of seriousness and professionalism of Neptune Prime under the leadership of Dr. Gimba, even as he acknowledged Dr. Gimba’s contribution to the growth of online journalism and factual reporting in Nigeria. Danlami expressed optimism that the CEO would continue to discharge his duties in good health and wisdom. This was even as Dr. Gimba thanked GOCOP executives, under the leadership of Mrs. Maureen Chigbo as President, for the unwavering support and togetherness of members of the Guild. He pledged his continued support for GOCOP’s operations and overall success, especially, in its efforts to sanitise online journalism in Nigeria.
Northern Nigeria has unanimously rejected the content of the recent Tax Reform Bill that was forwarded to the National Assembly by the executive arm of the government, headed by President Bola Tinubu. The region said it “unanimously rejects the proposed Tax Amendments and calls on members of National Assembly to oppose any bill that can jeopardise the well-being of our people.” These were parts of the resolutions as contained in a joint Communique that emanated from the meeting of the Northern State Governors’ Forum and Chairmen of the Northern State Council of Emirs and Chiefs which was held today, October 28, 2024 in Kaduna. The Forum noted with dismay, the content of the Tax Reform Bill, saying that the contents of the Bill is “against the interests of the north and other sub-nationals, especially the proposed amendment to the distribution of Value Added Tax (VAT) to Derivation-based Model.
“This is because, companies remit VAT using location of their headquarters and tax office and not where the services and goods are consumed.” The northern leaders said that they are not against any policies or programmes that would ensure the growth and development of the Country, but insisted on what they described as “equity and farness in the implementation of all national policies and programmes so as to ensure that no geopolitical zone is short-changed or marginalised.” Parts of the Communique go thus: A joint meeting of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Northern Traditional Ruler’ Council (Emirs and Chiefs) was held today, Monday 28 October, 2024. The meeting was also briefed on the security challenges in the north by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. The meeting deliberated extensively on matters of common interest and resolved to issue the following communique: 1. Forum extends its deepest sympathies to the victims of the recent flood disasters in Maiduguri and other parts of the North, as well as to the families affected by the tragic tanker explosion in Jigawa State. The Forum equally commiserates with other victims of terrorism, banditry and similar criminal activities in the North and Nigeria at large and stand in solidarity with them during these difficult times. We agreed to continue to work with the Federal Government and relevant agencies to provide the necessary support and relief to those affected. 2. Forum emphasises that Traditional Institutions are critical in the quest for lasting peace and security in the region. Forum also acknowledged their commitment in bridging the gap between the Government and the people. Forum advocates for increased roles for the Traditional Institutions to maximize cooperation with security agencies in the fight against kidnap for ransom, banditry, cattle rustling, communal clashes, farmers/herder clashes and other forms of criminality. 3. Forum acknowledges the recent gains made against criminals, especially the elimination of bandits and terror leaders. However, we resolved to sustain these gains in order to ensure lasting peace and stability in the sub-region. Forum commend the Federal Government and security agencies for their commitment in ensuring that our communities are safe and secure. Particularly we commend the untiring commitment of the Chief of Defence Staff General C. J Musa whose professionalism and innovative approach has made difference in security architecture of the Country at large. Nevertheless more need to be done to address pockets of challenges that abound in the Northern Region. 4. With the recent “End Bad Governance” protests that took place in August, the Forum resolved to scale up efforts to tackle the root causes of youth restiveness by investing in education, skills development, job creation and pathways for the youth to chanel their energy into productive ventures, thereby reducing their vulnerability to crime and social vices. 5. Forum resolves to call on the Federal Government and relevant Agencies to urgently address the current electricity power blackout affecting most of the Northern States due to vandalization of electricity transmission infrastructure. This matter not only underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure, but also the need to build aalitional transmission lines and diversify our energy supply so as to better connect our region and improve our energy resilience. 6. Forum agrees that Northern Nigeria holds immense agricultural potentials, which, if fully harnessed, can significantly alleviate hunger and boost economic growth. To achieve this, we resolved to provide adequate support to our farmers, including access to financing, modern farming techniques and infrastructure such as roads and irrigation systems. Agriculture should not only be seen as a means to feed our people but also as a catalyst for industrialization and job creation across the region. That can be achieved through re-industrialisation of the North especially by reviving the textile value chain and development of other agro-allied industries. 7. Forum commends His Excellency, the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the reform initiative in the livestock sub-sector and agreed to provide the necessary political will and commitment to ensure the success of the Federal Government livestock development initiatives. The Forum also agreed to sustain engagement and cross-fertilization of ideas with the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee to achieve greater results. 8. Forum acknowledges the fact that climate change has greatly affected our environment resulting in the recent flood incidents in many parts of the North and therefore resolved to partner with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to build irrigation infrastructure like canals and waterways to divert excess water and channel them towards irrigation activities, thus enhancing rural livelihoods and safeguarding food security. 9. Forum agrees to support and key-in to any initiative aimed at addressing the challenges of out-of-school-children and improving educational outcomes in the sub-region. 10. Forum notes with dismay the content of the recent Tax Reform Bill that was forwarded to the National Assembly. The contents of the Blare against the interests of the north and other sub-nationals especially the proposed amendment to the distribution of Value Added Tax (VAT) to Derivation-based Model. This is because companies remit VAT using location of their headquarters and tax office and not wnere the services and goods are consumed. In view of the foregoing, the Forum unanimously rejects the proposed Tax Amendments and calls on members of National Assembly to oppose any bill that can jeopardise the well-being of our people. 11. For the avoidance of doubt, the Northern Governor’ Forum is not averse to any policies or programmes that will ensure the growth and development of the Country. However, the Forum calls for equity and farness in the implementation of all national policies and programmes so as to ensure that no geopolitical zone is short-changed or marginalised. 12. On the present economic hardship affecting the Country, the Forum is appealing to all citizens to remain calm, as the states and Federal Government are working hard to implement measures that will cushion effects of the hardship. His Excellency, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, Executive Governor of Gombe State/Chairman of the Northern State Governors’ Forum.
Over 19 years after, the legal battle between the dethroned Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Al-Mustapha Jokolo and the Kebbi State government has continued to linger. The Court of Appeal in Sokoto State, today, October 28, ruled that Jokolo was dethroned in June 2005, by the then Governor Muhammad Adamu Aliero without being given fair hearing. In a unanimous judgment, read by Justice Ebiowei Tobi, the court held that the appeal filed by the Kebbi government lacked merit and upheld the lower court decision. Justice Tobi said that the decision was arrived after thorough consideration of the lower court judgment . The court cited non-compliance with the Chief’s appointment and the Deposition Law of Kebbi. “I have looked at the judgment of the lower court and it did not mention the evidences as the ground of the judgement. ”The appeal lacks merit and therefore dismissed. By so doing, I reaffirms the judgment of the lower court delivered.” According to him, the sister appeal was equally determined in favour of Jokolo because they were all talking about the same subject matter. Recall that the Kebbi State government, alongside with 12 others, had instituted an appeal against the judgement of the lower court on the fundamental right of the former Emir. The Appellants were represented by Yakubu Maikyau (SAN) while the respondent was represented by Fascal Onyenobi, during the hearing of the suit. In April 2016, the Court of Appeal, led by Justice Tunde Awotoye, upheld the High Court’s decision, saying that the Governor’s actions contravened the provisions of Sections 6 and 7 of the Chief Appointment and Deposition Law.
Former Nigeria’s President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and his Vice (President), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, today, October 28, exchanged pleasantries at the venue of the 25th anniversary of the Women Trafficking and Child Labour Eradication Foundation (WOTCLEF) in Abuja, the nation’s federal capital.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has taken practical step towards fast-tracking the growth of private businesses in Nigeria, with a partnership deal it has just had with International Finance Corporation (IFC), which is a member of the World Bank Group. The partnership agreement, which was struck in Washington D.C., USA, today, October 28, is aimed at increasing local currency financing to enable private businesses in Nigeria to grow and thrive. A statement emanating from the endorsement room in the U.S, said that the partnership would allow IFC to manage currency risks and increase its investment in Nigerian naira across priority sectors of the economy, including agriculture, housing, infrastructure, energy, small and medium enterprises as well as the creative and youth economy. “IFC aims to significantly scale up its financing of critical sectors in Nigeria, with a goal of providing more than $1 billion in the coming years. “Many of these sectors require local currency financing, and IFC’s partnership with the CBN is a key tool in expanding access. “This pioneering initiative between the IFC and CBN will unlock much-needed long-term local currency financing for private businesses in Nigeria at economically viable rates.” Confirming the development, the CBN Governor, Yemi Cardoso said: “this collaboration marks significant progress in the CBN’s commitment to delivering innovative development initiatives through reputable third-party service providers, moving beyond traditional intervention programs. It will serve as a catalyst for economic growth and advance the Federal Government’s agenda for economic diversification.”
This was even as the IFC Managing Director, Makhtar Dop said: “expanding access to affordable local currency financing for small businesses in Nigeria is essential for IFC to address the increasing demand for diverse funding options and to better manage currency risk. “Our partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria will enhance lending in Nigerian naira, fostering economic growth and creating jobs across the country.” With an active portfolio of investments in Nigeria of up to $2.13 billion—the second highest in Africa—local currency financing is a key priority for IFC. IFC pledged to continue to leverage innovative financial instruments and strengthen partnerships to meet the growing demand for more local currency financing in emerging markets.
Dangote Cement Plc has announced a significant investments exceeding $280 million in compressed natural gas (CNG) technology and infrastructure.
This is coming as a support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s CNG Initiative, which aims to provide cheaper and cleaner fuelling alternatives for all Nigerians, The Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Arvind Pathak, who did the announcement said that the investment aims to acquire 100% CNG trucks as part of a long-term plan to transition its entire fleet to CNG. He said that the over $280 million investment not only solidifies its leadership in the CNG sector but reflects its dedication to mitigating climate change and supporting a transition to a low-carbon economy.
He said that the move marked a significant milestone in Dangote’s clean energy transition, with the objective of operating most of its fleet on CNG by mid-2026. “As at October, the company has received its first batch of 1,500 mono-fuel CNG trucks while expecting additional 1,600 CNG trucks; totalling 3,100 before the end of the year. “By mid- 2026, Dangote Cement aims to operate a fleet predominantly powered by CNG. To facilitate this transformation, we are investing in expanding our CNG fuelling infrastructure, ensuring that our growing fleet has reliable access to CNG as our fuel.” He said plans are afoot to aggressively pursue this timeline of deployment, beginning from the first quarter of 2025. “We are keeping our eyes on the ball to ensure that we do not miss our target dates of full compliance.” Pathak said that the company’s CNG infrastructure investments have positively influenced Nigeria’s transition to cleaner fuels. He added that the CNG station at Obajana, capable of refuelling over 3,000 trucks, exemplifies this commitment, with a second station currently under development in Ibese to further support fleet operations. This is even as the President and Chief Executive of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote said that the company’s investments in CNG are also in line with Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement, which aims for net-zero emissions by 2060. “In this pursuit of transition to clean energy, we are optimistic of a remarkable accomplishment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he has taken the lead in the nation’s drive towards energy efficiency. This presupposes private sector intervention to support this noble idea initiated by the President.” He said that the company’s early adoption of CNG has made it the largest operator of CNG trucks in Nigeria, emphasising that the initiative is a boost to President Tinubu’s quest towards enhancing the nation’s energy independence and contributing to a more secure energy future. “We are now using CNG vehicles, especially with the new policy of the Federal Government, launched under the Renewed Hope Agenda by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We are committed to a cleaner and greener future.”
The Presidential candidate of the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar has recommended his campaign policy document to President Bola Tinubu as a way of getting Nigeria out of the perennial blackouts. He said: “I still believe that my solution, as encapsulated in my Policy Document, ‘My Covenant with Nigerians’, remains the most proactive plan to lead our country out of perennial darkness. In a statement today, October 26, Atiku noted that electricity power crisis in Nigeria has continued to be a matter of immense concern, saying that the situation is worst in both the Southeast and the entire states of the Northwest and Northeast that have been in complete blackouts in the past three weeks. He stressed the urgent need to remove the entire electricity value chain from the exclusive list and grant states the power to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity for themselves. “I firmly believe that an industrial dispute with the Federal Government in the nation’s capital should not affect industrial activities in any of the states or cities of the country. “Even as we focus on investments in additional generation, there’s a compelling need for capacity for the complementary transmission and distribution infrastructure to transport the supplementary energy produced. “Considering that energy opportunities exist in different parts of the country, our strategy should be a viable mix of renewable (hydro, solar, wind and biofuels) and non-renewable (coal, gas).” He restated his earlier recommendation to encourage private investors to invest in developing multiple green-field mini-grid transmission systems to be looped into the super-grid in the medium to long term.
The Confederation of Africa Football (CAF), has delivered a verdict, ordering a fine of USD 50,000 on Libya for maltreating Nigeria’s Super Eagles a fortnight ago. The African football ruling body also declared lost by forfeit by Libya (by a score of 3-0) in the aborted game on October 15, 2024. The CAF took the following decision concerning the aborted match between Libya and Nigeria’s SuperEagles:
The Libya Football Federation is found to have breached Article 31 of the African Cup of Nations Regulations as well as Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code.
The match No.87 Libya v. Nigeria of the CAF African Cup of Nations Qualifiers 2025 (scheduled to be played on 15 October 2024 in Benghazi) is declared lost by forfeit by Libya (by a score of 3-0). 3 The Libya Football Federation is ordered to pay a fine of USD 50,000.
The fine is to be paid within 60 days of notification of the present decision.
All other and further motions or prayers for relief are dismissed.
The Presidency has expressed surprise and displeasure at The Guardian newspaper for allegedly supporting a call for a military coup against the government of President Bola Tinubu. The presidency referred particularly to the newspaper’s lead story of Friday, October 25, 2024 with the title: “Calls for military intervention: misery, harsh policies driving Nigerians to desperate choices,” describing it as “openly incites unrest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration and advocates regime change under the guise of journalism.” In a statement today, October 26, the presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga said that the inflammatory headline and content deviated from responsible reporting. Parts of the statement go thus: The Guardian’s agenda is unmistakable from the cover illustration to the article. In attempting to create a balanced veneer, the author condemns military rule while fanning the flames of military intervention. This is evident in the introduction to the article where the newspaper wrote: “Nigerians were exhilarated with the return of democracy in 1999, but 25 years on, the buccaneering nature of politicians, their penchant for poor service delivery, morbid hatred for probity, accountability, and credible/transparent elections, among others, are forcing some flustered citizens to make extreme choices, including calling for military intervention in governance. .. Deep despondency permeates every facet of the polity consequent upon soaring cost of living. And while the political elite splurge on fine wines and exotic automobiles amid poor service delivery, calls for regime change could become more strident in the days ahead even though military insurrection holds no solution to the country’s woes.” We must question how The Guardian can present an argument for military intervention while superficially denouncing it unless it harbours a deliberate agenda. This latest editorial reflects a troubling trend in which the publication has persistently propagated inflammatory and negative narratives, stepping dangerously close to undermining the very fabric of responsible journalism. Moreover, the lead story relies heavily upon emotive language and imagery—such as an illustration of military armoured tank—to bolster its argument while neglecting to present a balanced view. It indulges in lampooning the current administration while ignoring positive developments in Nigeria’s economic landscape. The report lacks empirical data and fails to exhibit the journalistic rigour that the situation demands. It appears lost on The Guardian that such narratives could embolden anarchists intent on disrupting our democratic process. Military rule is an anachronism in modern civilisations, irrespective of its framing, due to the oppressive nature typically associated with its practice. Guided by its experience in 1984, when two of its journalists were jailed by the military regime for reporting the truth, The Guardian acknowledges that military rule is terrible. Yet, it attempts to provoke public ire against President Tinubu by suggesting he governs with less regard for citizens than military dictators once did. This narrative neglects the hard-fought battle that birthed our democracy and serves only to undermine the hard-won freedoms that Nigerians now enjoy. Good journalism is characterised by restraint and a commitment to national interest. Media outlets must propagate responsible reporting that contributes to an informed citizenry. During times of political and economic crises, the media, as a force for good, should rally the public around their leaders, fostering unity and patience as reforms are introduced. President Tinubu has consistently called for understanding and patience amid our nation’s challenges. This plea is not a sign of weakness but an affirmation of his dedication to a brighter future for Nigeria. Moreover, recent policy changes have initiated a turnaround, yielding positive economic indicators. According to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, the revenue-to-debt service ratio has notably declined from 97% in 2023 to 68% in 2024. Nigeria’s foreign reserves rose to $39.1 billion on October 22, with GDP growth achieving 2.98% in Q1 2024—an increase from 2.31% in Q1 2023. This growth was driven by sectors beyond oil, including the financial services sector, mining, and quarrying, marking a significant shift in our economic structure. We are now exporting more than we are importing, with trade surpluses recorded in two consecutive quarters. In the light of the positive developments, it is unacceptable for any publication, including The Guardian, to incite calls for military intervention based on transient difficulties. A more cautious and responsible approach would have better served its readers and the nation. Journalism—like our democracy—thrives on fairness and objectivity, and all media outlets must uphold these standards. We encourage The Guardian and similar platforms to prioritise balanced reporting that fosters dialogue and understanding rather than division and unrest. At this time, we need our people and the media to rally around the government as the Tinubu-led administration steers our country through this challenging period to a better future.
“Part of our predicament; part of our major headache is the procurement law. The procurement law, yes, it’s to protect and make sure our money is safe. “But then, if you look at the overall situation, it drags us backward.” These were the bitter complains made public by the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeson Wike when Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, represented by the Chairman, Senate Committee on FCT, Senator Ibrahim Bomai, flagged off the full scope development of Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) from the Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III in Abuja. Wike called for amendment of the procurement law to remove the bureaucratic bottlenecks that are slowing down the execution of projects in the nation’s capital. He regretted that in most cases, it takes almost four months before the procurement is approved, “before it goes to the Federal Executive Council and before you know it, six months is over. Six months of procurement alone is half of the year.” Still on the procurement challenges which he faced as the then Governor of Rivers State, Wike said that he was compelled to move for the amendment of the procurement law in the State. According to him, such amendment helped to quicken the pace in infrastructure development and eliminate the problem of contract variations. “We amended the law to say that in every job we have done with Julius Berger then, we will pay 70 percent. That’s how we were able to do 12 flyovers in four years.” Wike said that the series of infrastructure projects that commenced in the FCT in the course of the week will not only reduce travel time but also have the ripple effect of reducing the cost of food items, in addition to creating employment for residents. The Minister disclosed plans to commence the provision of infrastructure projects in Kwali, Kuje, Gwagwalada and Bwari Area Councils by next week. “By the time Tinubu finishes his first tenure, Abuja people will say yes, we have no choice but to continue to follow you because you have brought back our hope.” This was as the Senate President stressed the importance of a good road network to the socio-economic development of the country, saying that the construction of the Arterial Road N5 will not only improve the traffic situation in the area but also boost socio-economic activities in Abuja. Senator Akpabio commended the ingenuity of the FCT Minister in improving the revenue base of the FCT and ensuring the provision of vital infrastructure in the nation’s capital. “The commissioning of the road will definitely reduce traffic and also shorten the driving time and also boost socioeconomic activities in the city. On behalf of the entire Senate, I once again commend the Hon. Minister, Minister of State and all the staff of the FCT for this milestone in the development of the FCT.” He reiterated the commitment of the Senate to providing the necessary support to the FCT Administration to deliver its statutory function. The Executive Secretary FCDA, Engineer Shehu Hadi Ahmad, in his welcome address, said that the Arterial Road N5 will cover a distance of about 4.4 kilometers with two carriageways of six lanes. He said that the road will provide the much needed relief to the Old Keffi Road which connects the Lifecamp Junction up to Dei Dei in Abuja, adding that the project will also open up economic activities in the Districts of Kado, Karmo, Gwarimpa I, Dape, Ido Gwari, as well as Saburi and Dei-Dei. Engineer Hadi said that procurement is ongoing to rehabilitate the Old Keffi Road which will serve as a relief while the arterial road N5 project is ongoing.
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