Muslims From Southern Nigeria To Pay About N8.8 Million For 2025 Hajj: North N8.4 Million

January 20, 2025

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has fixed Hajj fare for the 2025 pilgrimage in the Holy sites of Saudi Arabia at over N8 million.
According to the Commission, in a statement today, January 20, by its Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Sanda Usara, the cost for intending pilgrims from Southern states is N8, 784, 085.59 while those from the Northern zone will pay N8, 457,685.59.
The statement said that the fare for Borno and Adamawa zone intending pilgrims is N8,327,125.59.
It said that the modest effort on the fare was reached after extensive consultations to ensure inclusivity in this important decision-making process.
The statement said that the fare was arrived at after an approval from the Office of the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Indeed NAHCON Chairman and his team in collaboration with representative of the Presidency, Malam Ameen Amshi, who is Special Assistant to the President, Special Duties did their best to maintain the Hajj fare within the same range as previously charged.
“Others who actively participated in stemming the cost are leadership of State Executive Secretaries, namely Malam Idris Ahmad Almakura, the Forum Chairman who doubles as the Executive Secretary (E.S) of Nasarawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, his colleague from Kebbi State and Deputy Chairman of the Forum, Alhaji Faruku Aliyu Yaro, with their Secretary and E.S of Adamawa State, Alhaji Abubakar Salihu among others who worked tirelessly to ensure that the fares do not skyrocket.”
The statement quoted the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NAHCON, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman as commending the team.
He described the Hajj fare as a product of extensive collaboration with all stakeholders.
He appreciated the support of the Presidency and Forum of State E.S.
The Chairman advised prospective pilgrims to take note of the timelines and Saudi guidelines, emphasizing the importance of early payment and timely registration to avoid last-minute inconveniences.

Court Jails Sokoto University Accountant For Diverting Over N60 Million

Greenbarge Reporters

January 20, 2025

Federal High Court in Sokoto has convicted the accountant of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, (UDUTH), Sokoto, Lukumanu Sani Waziri, for diverting over N60 million through the Government Integrated Financial Information System (GIFMIS).
Waziri, who faced a nine-count charge of corruption and abuse of office, was found guilty on seven counts.
Justice M. Abdulgafar of the Federal High Court, Sokoto, sentenced him to various prison terms totaling seven years or fines ranging from ₦200,000 to ₦500,000 for specific charges, to run concurrently.
Dr. Osuobeni Akponimisingha of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), had, during the trial, presented evidence showing how Waziri altered financial records on GIFMIS and facilitated the illegal transfer of funds into private accounts, including his own.
The diverted money included state taxes meant for Kogi, Edo, Bauchi, and Zamfara States, which were fraudulently rerouted to the account of one Monday Michael Adejo.
In one instance, Waziri transferred over N20 million into Adejo’s account in 2020. ICPC described the act as a blatant abuse of office, with funds forming part of proceeds from corruption and fraud.
“This conviction underscores ICPC’s commitment to ensuring accountability and justice in the management of public funds,” said Demola Bakare, Director of Public Enlightenment and Education at ICPC.
The Commission urged public institutions to strengthen internal financial controls to prevent similar crimes.

Soldiers Kill Son Of Most Wanted Terrorist Leader, Bello Turji; His Fighters Desert Him

Greenbarge Reporters

January 20, 2025

Report reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper indicated that the son of the most wanted Bandit leader around Zamfara State, Bello Turji was among several of his fighters that were killed yesterday, January 19.
According to a Lake Chad Basin counterterrorism and insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, who made this known in a post on his X account, the coordinated military strikes dismantled his key hideouts in Fakai, Shinkafi Local Government Area.
Makama said that the development came after a series of successful missions that resulted in the destruction of multiple bandit camps in the Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The security expert listed the camps targeted by the military to include Zangon Dan Gwandi, Zangon Tsaika, Zangon Kagara, and a school reportedly used by Turji to store foodstuffs and weapons.
According to him, the military burned the school to prevent it from serving as a supply base for Turji’s network.
“Intelligence sources confirmed to Zagazola Makama that Turji’s group has suffered significant losses. “We killed his son and many of his fighters during the operation. I also listened to Turji’s panicked voice calling for reinforcements from seven other bandit leaders. None of them showed up, and one of his spies narrowly escaped from us today,” the sources said.
It said that a considerable number of Turji’s associates, including high-profile lieutenants and possibly family members, were neutralized during the targeted strikes.
“Further reports reveal that four of Turji’s fighters were injured in previous encounters, while others have retreated to Mangwarorin Gebe, allegedly hiding stolen livestock and valuables,” Makama said.

Tinubu, Buhari Mourn 70 People Who Died In Niger Fuel Tanker Explosion, Deplore Act Of Scooping Fuel

Greenbarge Reporters

January 19, 2025

President Bola Tinubu and immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari have expressed deep sorrow over the fuel tanker explosion, which caused the death of over 70 people, with many also injured.
In a separate statements, Tinubu and Buhari deplored the continued act of scooping fuel from tankers, despite several warnings by the authorities.
Bayo Unanuga, spokesman to President Tinubu, said that the devastating explosion, which occurred on Saturday at Dikko Junction, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State, caused an immense human toll.
President Tinubu was quoted as expressing his condolences to the families affected, as well as to the government and people of Niger State.
He underscored the tragic and preventable nature of the incident, as many victims were those scooping Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the overturned tanker.
Tinu directed the provision of comprehensive medical care to the injured and instructed security and road safety authorities to implement measures to avert similar incidents.
He strongly advised all citizens to exercise caution and avoid approaching accident sites, especially those involving fuel-laden vehicles, due to their highly explosive nature.
The President also mandated the National Orientation Agency to initiate a nationwide educational campaign.
“This campaign will raise public awareness about the severe risks and environmental dangers of scooping fuel from fallen tankers.
Spokesman to Buhari while in power, Malam Garba Shehu quoted the former President as having expressed disappointment that the practice of scooping up fuel is becoming more common in spite of warnings from the authorities and the devastating losses of life that had characteristically attended such incidents.
Buhari condoled the families of the victims and government of Niger state, wishing speedy recovery to those injured.

Obasanjo To Gov Adeleke Of Osun: I Like Your Dancing And Achievements

Greenbarge Reporters

January 18, 2025

Former Nigeria’s President, Olusegun Obasanjọ has described Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State as a great dancer as well as an achiever in the governance of the State
He was particularly impressed by the governor’s planned establishment of Osun State International Airport to be located in Akoda, Ede.
The elder statesman, who played host to Governor Adeleke at his hilltop Presidential Library, Abeokuta, Ogun State today, January 18, said that he is proud to publicly associate with the Governor, considering his achievements in various sectors in just two years.
“They call him a dancer and he has continued to perform even to the amazement of his political opponents.”
The former President advised Senator Adeleke not to stop dancing amidst his sterling performance, saying that he is proud of how he has continued to put Osun on a global pedestal.
On the proposed Osun State International airport to be cited in Akoda Ede, the former President said that he was particularly happy with the way Governor Adeleke handled the shenanigans of the opposition which he described as a calculated attempt to frustrate his efforts.
“Let me first congratulate you for the way you handled the issue of the proposed Airport. “They would have frustrated the genuine intention that you have to implement a futuristic development agenda.”
Responding, Governor Ademola Adeleke expressed appreciation to the former President for standing by him through thick and thin, noting that on the airport project among others, his government has prioritised inclusiveness, due process and consultations with stakeholders.
Governor Adeleke thanked Chief Obasanjo for his constant wise counsel on matters of governance, saying that his political detractors have attempted to frustrate his government severally, but could not succeed because he has continued to take wise advice from stakeholders.
The Governor was accompanied by Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, Commissioner for Agriculture, Tola Fasheru and his counterpart from Innovation, Science, Technology and Digital Economy, Dele Ayofe among others.

Security Uncovers New Group With Foreign Connection, In Nigeria

Greenbarge Reporters

January 18, 2025

Security operatives, through intelligence gathering, has uncovered a new group, with foreign connection in Nigeria, though it has not been confirmed whether members of the group constitute danger to the nation’s security.
The group, known as ACHAD Life Mission International, is believed to have its headquarters in Kaduna with a man called Yokana, based in Jos, Plateau State capital, as thire leader.
A circular, with reference number, NIS/HQ/CG1/943/T/134, from the Nigerian Immigration Service said that members of the sect neither believe in Islam nor Christianity.
According to the circular, which was dated January 14, and signed for the Comptroller General by his Principal Staff Officer, A.A Arigbede, PhD, members of the sect preach the restoration of the African tradition and support to humanity.
Content of the circular, titled: EMERGENCE OF A NEW SECT NAMED ACHAD LIFE MISSION INTERNATIONAL is reproduced hereunder:
I am directed to inform you that the intelligence gathering by the Service reveals the emergence of a new sect called ACHAD Life Mission International.
The intelligence reports that the sect have their Headquarters in Kaduna, while its leader, one Mr. Yokana lives in Jos, Plateau State.
It is further notes that the sect neither believes in Islam nor Christianity, but preaches the restoration of the African tradition and support to humanity.
The intelligence further reveals that the sect have been canvassing for members, both within and outside Nigeria, and is possibly involved in human trafficking and child separation.
In light of the above, you are requested to stay vigilant and report immediately sign of the sect, and where possible arrest and revert accordingly.
This is for your information and strict compliance, please.
Copies of the circular were sent to all the directorates, all the zones, all the training institutions, all Commands and all border formation.

Federal, State, Local Govts Share N1.424 Trillion For December 2024 FAAC Allocation

Greenbarge Reporters

January 17, 2025

Federal Government, State and the Local Government Councils have shared a total of N 1.424 trillion, being December 2024 Federation Account Revenue.
The revenue was shared at the January 2025 Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting held in Abuja.
The N1.424 trillion total distributable revenue comprised distributable statutory revenue of N386.124 billion, distributable Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue of N604.872 billion, Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) revenue of N31.211 billion and Exchange Difference revenue of N402.714 billion.
A communiqué issued by the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) indicated that total gross revenue of N2.310 trillion was available in the month of December 2024. Total deduction for cost of collection was N84.780 billion while total transfers, interventions and refunds was N801.175 billion.
According to the communiqué, in a statement by Bawa Mokwa director of Press and Public relations on Friday, gross statutory revenue of N1.226 trillion was received for the month of December 2024. This was lower than the sum of N1.827 trillion received in the month of November 2024 by N600.988 billion.
Gross revenue of N649.561 billion was available from the Value Added Tax (VAT) in December 2024. This was higher than the N628.973 billion available in the month of November 2024 by N20.588 billion.
The communiqué stated that from the N1.424 trillion total distributable revenue, the Federal Government received total sum of N451.193 billion and the State Governments received total sum of N498.498 billion.
The Local Government Councils received total sum of N361.754 billion and a total sum of N113.477 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting States as derivation revenue.
On the N386.124 billion distributable statutory revenue, the communiqué stated that the Federal Government received N167.690 billion and the State Governments received N85.055 billion.
The Local Government Councils received N65.574 billion and the sum of N67.806 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting States as derivation revenue.
From the N604.872 billion distributable Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue, the Federal Government received N90.731 billion, the State Governments received N302.436 billion and the Local Government Councils received N211.705 billion.
A total sum of N4.682 billion was received by the Federal Government from the N31.211 billion Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL). The State Governments received N15.605 billion and the Local Government Councils received N10.924 billion.
From the N402.714 billion Exchange Difference revenue, the communiqué stated that the Federal Government received N188.090 billion and the State Governments received N95.402 billion.
The Local Government Councils received N73.551 billion, while the sum of N45.671 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting States as derivation revenue.
In December 2024, Value Added Tax (VAT) and Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) increased significantly while Oil and Gas Royalty, CET Levies, Excise Duty, Import Duty, Petroleum Profit Tax(PPT) and Companies Income Tax (CIT) decreased considerably.

Gov Ododo Vows To Revolutionise Kogi Healthcare System

Greenbarge Reporters

January 17, 2025

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has unveiled ambitious reforms aimed at revolutionizing the state’s primary healthcare system to deliver high quality and accessible healthcare services.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement on primary healthcare revitalization in Lokoja, the state capital, Governor Ododo, represented by his Deputy, Joel Salifu, announced the introduction of periodic spot checks on all Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the state.
The initiative, led by the Primary Healthcare Task Force in collaboration with local government authorities and traditional rulers, is designed to ensure accountability, enhance coordination, and elevate the standard of services provided by PHCs.
Governor Ododo highlighted the critical role of PHCs in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, boosting immunization coverage and raising awareness about the importance of primary healthcare in the state’s healthcare value chain.
“Our administration is determined to address the challenges in the primary healthcare system and ensure better health outcomes for our citizens. This will be achieved through improved data collection and adherence to best practices in case management across all PHCs.
This was even as the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, emphasized the significance of collaboration among stakeholders in sustaining healthcare initiatives.
He said d that at least, one PHC in each of the state’s 239 wards is currently operational and supported by funding, with plans underway to increase the number of fully functional PHCs across all wards in the state.
In his remarks, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty, Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, commended the Ministry of Health for its relentless efforts to improve primary healthcare delivery.
He pledged the continued support of traditional rulers in monitoring and supervising PHCs in their domain to maintain service delivery standards.

Gov Buni Hosts 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum From January 29 – 31

Greenbarge Reporters

January 17, 2025

The Yobe State Government, under the leadership of Governor, Mai Mala Buni, is set to host the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum from January 29 to 31, 2025, in Maiduguri.
The Forum is made up of governors from Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Nigeria, representing the four countries and eight territories severely affected by the Boko Haram crisis.
The fifth Summit will aim at tackling key socio-economic challenges facing the region.
Information reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper said that the host, Governor Mai Mala Buni pledged his commitment to ensuring the success of the forum.
The governors are expected to discuss pressing issues and develop strategies for promoting regional cooperation and development.
The forum will focus on addressing security challenges, promoting regional cooperation, and fostering socio-economic recovery in the region. It will also provide an opportunity for the governors to share experiences and best practices in addressing the unique challenges facing their respective states.
Governor Mai Mala Buni, a seasoned politician with a strong track record of public service, has been at the forefront of efforts to promote peace, stability, and development in Yobe State and the wider Lake Chad Basin region.
The hosting of the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum is a testament to Governor Buni’s commitment to regional cooperation and development, and his determination to work with his counterparts to address the common challenges facing the region.

Nigerian Govs Support New Tax Reform Bills, But Want Essential Goods Exempted From VAT

Greenbarge Reporters

January 16, 2025

Governors of the 36 States of Nigeria, under the auspices of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) have declared support for the tax reform bills presently before the National Assembly for consideration and passage into law.
The Governors rose from a meeting with the Oyedele-led presidential tax reform committee today, January 16, asking, in a communique, for the continued exemption of essential goods and agricultural produce from Value Added Tax (VAT).
They stressed that such exception would safeguard the welfare of citizens and promote agricultural productivity.
Members agreed that there should be no increase in the VAT rate or reduction in Corporate Income Tax (CIT) at this time, to maintain economic stability.
The governors said that there should be no terminal clause for TETFUND, NASENI, and NITDA in the sharing of development levies in the bills.
Other resolutions as contained in the communique go thus:
“We, members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and
presidential tax reform committee, convened on the 16th of January 2025 to deliberate on critical national issues, including the reform of
Nigeria’s fiscal policies and tax system, and arrived at the following resolutions:

The Forum reiterated its strong support for the comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s archaic tax laws. Members acknowledged the importance of modernizing the tax system to enhance fiscal stability and align with global best practices.

The Forum endorsed a revised Value Added Tax (VAT) sharing formula to ensure equitable distribution of resources:
o 50% based on equality,
o 30% based on derivation, and
o 20% based on population.

The meeting supports the continuation of the legislative process at the National Assembly that will culminate in. the eventual passage of the Tax Reform Bills.”

𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝
H.E. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq
Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum & Governor of Kwara State.

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