A United States lawmaker, Riley M. Moore, has voiced strong concern following a recent violent attack reportedly carried out by fighters belonging to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Reports indicate that the extremist group acknowledged responsibility for the assault, which allegedly occurred in February and resulted in the deaths of 27 Christians. In addition to the killings, at least ten residential houses were reportedly set ablaze during the violent incident. Terror Group Claims Responsibility Information circulating online suggests that the militant faction admitted to carrying out the attack. The disclosure was highlighted in a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) by security analyst Brant Philip, who referenced statements attributed to the insurgents. According to the reported message, the group allegedly issued threats directed at Christian communities in Nigeria. The extremists reportedly demanded that Christians either pay a religious tax known as “jizyah,” convert to Islam, or face death. In the message referenced by the security expert, the militant organization reportedly described these demands as a “fair deal,” further intensifying concerns regarding religious persecution and violent extremism in parts of the country. US Congressman Condemns the Violence Reacting to the development, Congressman Riley M. Moore took to his official account on X to express deep concern over the attack and the message attributed to the militants. The US legislator lamented what he described as ongoing violence directed at Christian communities in Nigeria, warning that such actions demonstrate a pattern of religious targeting. Moore stated that the militants appear to be issuing ultimatums demanding that Christians convert to Islam or risk being killed, a situation he described as alarming. Call for Nigerian Government Action The congressman also used his statement to call on the Nigerian government to respond decisively to the situation. According to Moore, the protection of citizens—particularly those facing threats due to their religious beliefs—must remain a priority for authorities. He emphasized that stronger action is required to ensure the safety of vulnerable communities and to address militant violence effectively. In his statement, Moore wrote: “Christians continue to be explicitly targeted because of their faith in Nigeria.ISIS-West Africa militants are killing Christians and warning others that they must convert or face death.In our report to the White House, we made it clear that increased American assistance depends on the Nigerian government doing more to protect Christians. Now is the time for Abuja to take decisive action.” Rising Concerns Over Security and Religious Violence The reported attack has renewed conversations about security challenges and religiously motivated violence in parts of Nigeria. Security analysts and international observers have repeatedly highlighted the activities of extremist groups operating across the Lake Chad region, where militant organizations have continued to launch attacks against communities and security forces. Organizations that monitor religious freedom have also drawn attention to the broader issue of violence affecting faith-based communities across different regions. For global context and monitoring of religious freedom worldwide, organizations such as the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom provide detailed reports on threats to religious communities. As discussions continue, the latest incident has further intensified calls for stronger protection measures, improved intelligence coordination, and sustained international cooperation to combat extremist violence.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has encouraged citizens across the country to move away from what she described as an “entitlement mentality,” emphasizing that Nigerians should instead cultivate a culture rooted in responsibility, honesty, and dedicated service in whatever roles they occupy. The message was disclosed in an official statement released on Thursday and signed by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi. According to the statement, the First Lady made this appeal while hosting an interfaith Breaking of Fast gathering for women. The event combined the observances of Iftar and Lent, bringing together women from diverse professional and social backgrounds across Nigeria. During her address at the gathering, Mrs. Tinubu highlighted the symbolic significance of the Muslim Ramadan fasting period occurring at the same time as the Christian Lenten season. She noted that this rare overlap carries a deeper national message about unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among people of different religious traditions. The First Lady explained that the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent offers Nigerians an opportunity to reflect on shared values such as sacrifice, discipline, humility, and spiritual renewal. “Today is truly a special day. It is a moment that God has created for us to come together, especially women from different backgrounds. When the Ramadan fast began and the Lenten season also started around the same period, it felt as though God was speaking to us collectively as a nation,” she stated. Mrs. Tinubu also pointed out that although there have been attempts in recent times by certain individuals or groups to exploit religious differences in order to create division, the Nigerian people historically have maintained peaceful relationships regardless of religious affiliation. She observed that many Nigerian families already demonstrate religious harmony in their everyday lives, with members belonging to different faith traditions while still living peacefully under the same roof. “Recently, we have seen many situations where some people attempt to focus attention on our religious differences. But as Nigerians, we know that this is not usually the reality. There are many families where spouses belong to different religions, yet they coexist peacefully. Some of us have lived this reality for decades. In my case, it has been almost forty years,” she said. Reflecting on her own personal experience, the First Lady referenced her nearly four decades of marriage to Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. She explained that respect, maturity, and mutual understanding have been central to maintaining harmony throughout their relationship. According to her, disagreements have been rare, and both partners have consistently approached their marriage with patience and dignity. “I can honestly say that throughout the years we have been married, I cannot recall more than a couple of times when our voices were raised at each other. That speaks to the level of maturity and respect we have maintained. “This kind of approach to relationships is what helps people live together peacefully,” she added. Beyond discussing unity and family values, Senator Tinubu used the opportunity to encourage Nigerians to rethink attitudes that expect benefits without corresponding effort or contribution. She stressed that national progress depends on individuals who are willing to play active roles in improving their communities rather than waiting for opportunities or advantages without participating in the process. The First Lady further addressed women whose spouses hold positions in government as well as women who occupy leadership roles themselves. She urged them to understand the influence they possess and to use it positively in supporting responsible governance and national development. “Many of the women gathered here either hold professional positions themselves or are married to individuals who serve in public offices. In such circumstances, the wives also carry an important responsibility,” she noted. Mrs. Tinubu emphasized that the actions, attitudes, and values demonstrated by families of public officials can contribute to shaping the culture of leadership within the country. She also highlighted the importance of mentorship and the responsibility older generations carry in guiding younger Nigerians. According to her, the future of the country will largely depend on the principles and moral standards passed on to emerging generations. Encouraging participants at the event to take mentorship seriously, she said that nurturing responsible young leaders requires deliberate effort, positive examples, and strong moral guidance. The gathering also featured a lecture delivered by Professor Ganiyat Adejoke Adesina-Uthman, a Director at the National Open University of Nigeria. Speaking on the topic “Serving with Excellence, Compassion and Integrity in Public Life,” the academic highlighted the importance of ethical leadership in public institutions. Professor Adesina-Uthman raised concerns about what she described as a growing crisis of public trust in government offices and institutions. According to her, rebuilding confidence among citizens requires leaders who demonstrate accountability, compassion, and transparency in their duties. She explained that excellence in public service should not be seen merely as a professional expectation but as a moral obligation for those entrusted with authority. The scholar also stressed that integrity remains an indispensable principle for anyone serving in a public capacity, noting that ethical leadership forms the foundation for effective governance and sustainable national development.
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Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to continuously fostering a business‑friendly atmosphere capable of boosting the economic prospects of the state. The governor made this declaration on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by officials of the Aba Sports Club 1926 to Government House, led by the club’s Millennium President and its 68th President, Chief Nkene Enukeme. In his remarks, Governor Otti emphasized that the ongoing revitalization of Aba city remains a central focus of his government’s strategic agenda. He stated that his administration will make deliberate efforts to reimagine and improve Aba’s commercial environment, explaining: “As a government, we’ll do everything possible to continue to reinvent Aba. We talked about the Radisson Blu – Enyimba Hotel, and of course, construction is on. The presence of a Five‑Star Hotel in Aba will automatically redefine and elevate virtually everything. It will not send people out, but it will bring them up.” The governor also pointed out that introducing a world‑class hospitality establishment like the Radisson Blu – Enyimba Hotel will set new benchmarks across multiple sectors, stimulating healthy competition among local enterprises and lifting overall standards. He added: “There are gains to come. If you want to maintain a hotel in Aba, then you have to aim to be at the highest standard. That’s how societies improve. That’s how organisations also support society.” Governor Otti took time to congratulate Chief Nkene Enukeme on his leadership position at the club, applauding him for preserving and enhancing the legacy of his late father. He remarked: “It doesn’t happen like that very often. A lot of people who have built things, by the time they leave, the entire thing collapses. So, you need to also document some of those things that you did so that others can learn. I’m very proud of you; just keep it up.” In response, Chief Nkene Enukeme explained that the purpose of the visit was to solidify the partnership between the Aba Sports Club and the state government, while showing appreciation for the support provided to the club’s infrastructure. He praised Governor Otti’s leadership, noting that the visible transformation of governance culture — characterised by fiscal responsibility and a sharp focus on infrastructure renewal — continues to uplift the hopes of Abia residents. According to Nkene: “The visible shift in the governance culture of Abia State, characterised by fiscal discipline and a clear focus on infrastructural renewal, is not only commendable but serves as a beacon of hope for all Abians.”
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The General Manager of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA), Prince Dr. Ifalade Oyekan, has affirmed that Lagos State is thoroughly equipped and ready for the implementation of State Police. He highlighted that the state’s current security framework is strategically structured to adapt easily to a full state policing system once the legal environment is established. In an official statement, Prince Oyekan pointed out that the Agency — widely recognized as one of Nigeria’s forerunners in community‑oriented policing — was intentionally developed with the flexibility and readiness needed to evolve into a comprehensive security force. This anticipatory setup is aimed at ensuring that Lagos seamlessly aligns with the framework of State Police when it becomes legally sanctioned. He emphasized that the LNSA has undergone significant restructuring to effectively address contemporary security challenges. This transformation places strong emphasis on proactive measures, modern technology, and intelligence‑led initiatives as central components of its strategy to protect lives and property across the state. “We are not created to simply react to crime after it has occurred. Our trained Corps Officers are equipped to anticipate possible threats, prevent emerging security risks, and proactively reduce incidents before they escalate,” Oyekan explained. According to him, the organization’s operational philosophy centers on grassroots engagement, intelligence collection, and rapid early intervention. These core functions, he noted, reflect the same principles and expectations envisioned for state‑level policing, making Lagos uniquely equipped for the transition. Recently reappointed by Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo‑Olu for a second five‑year tenure, Prince Oyekan restated the Agency’s unwavering dedication to strengthening community‑based safety structures and fostering collaborative security cooperation throughout Lagos. He reiterated that under Governor Sanwo‑Olu’s leadership, the LNSA and its operational wing will continue to modernize intelligently, enhancing their capacity to serve as a responsive, efficient, and community‑centric safety institution. In a related development at the national level, the Inspector‑General of Police, Tunji Disu, has inaugurated an eight‑member committee tasked with guiding the implementation of State Police and driving forward a reformed policing agenda in Nigeria. This committee was established soon after his appointment as the 23rd indigenous Inspector‑General of Police, reflecting the growing federal commitment to restructuring Nigeria’s policing architecture.
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British media personality Piers Morgan has shared his thoughts on when Arsenal F.C.’s Premier League title challenge against Manchester City F.C. could be decided. He made the projection through a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account shortly after Arsenal secured a narrow 1–0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. in Wednesday’s Premier League encounter. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the North London side claimed all three points at the Amex Stadium courtesy of a decisive first-half strike from Bukayo Saka. The winger’s effort ensured Mikel Arteta’s men maintained momentum in what has become an intense and closely watched championship battle. With that result, Arsenal extended their advantage to seven points at the top of the Premier League standings. Meanwhile, the defending champions were held to a 2–2 draw by Nottingham Forest F.C., a setback that slightly complicated their pursuit of another domestic crown. Despite the gap, Pep Guardiola’s men still have a game in hand, having featured in 29 league matches so far this season. That outstanding fixture could prove decisive as the competition approaches its defining phase. Morgan, a vocal Arsenal supporter, analyzed the upcoming schedule for both clubs and suggested that the title race might effectively be concluded before the end of March. He highlighted Arsenal’s next two league fixtures at home against Everton F.C. and AFC Bournemouth. In contrast, Manchester City are set to travel for challenging away clashes against West Ham United F.C. and Chelsea F.C.. Crucially, the two title contenders are also scheduled to meet shortly afterward in what could be a season-defining showdown. Morgan expressed confidence that, depending on how the forthcoming fixtures unfold, the championship contest may be effectively settled by March 30 — a date that coincides with his birthday — a forecast he previously made during an appearance on talkSPORT. As the Premier League campaign intensifies, every result now carries significant implications. Arsenal’s consistency, City’s resilience, and the looming head-to-head clash are shaping what could become one of the most dramatic finishes in recent seasons.
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Manchester United icon Paul Scholes has openly criticized interim boss Michael Carrick following the Red Devils’ 2–1 setback against Newcastle United in the Premier League on Wednesday night. Carrick witnessed his side fall short at St James’ Park, where a solitary effort from Casemiro proved insufficient to rescue even a draw for the visiting team. Despite pushing forward in search of an equalizer, United were unable to overturn the deficit before the final whistle. The loss marked Carrick’s first defeat since stepping in as Manchester United’s manager during his second spell at Manchester United in January. His tenure had previously seen a brief unbeaten run, but the latest result has intensified scrutiny over the club’s recent performances. Reacting shortly after the match via Instagram, Scholes — who had earlier expressed reservations about the idea of Carrick being handed the role on a long-term basis at the end of the campaign — did not hold back in his assessment. The former midfielder suggested that the team’s displays across the past four outings have fallen far below expectations under the caretaker’s guidance. “Michael has certainly got something unique about him… because United have been poor in the last four matches tonight,” Scholes posted, delivering a blunt verdict on the club’s current form. The defeat has further fueled conversations surrounding tactical decisions, squad cohesion, and consistency levels as the season progresses. For detailed league standings and match analysis, readers can refer to reputable sources such as BBC Sport for comprehensive coverage of Premier League fixtures and updates.
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The Opta SuperComputer has refreshed its projections for the English Premier League title contest following an intense round of midweek fixtures on Wednesday night. A decisive first-half strike from Bukayo Saka secured a narrow 1-0 triumph for Arsenal away at Brighton & Hove Albion. That solitary effort proved enough to hand the North London side all three points in a tightly contested encounter. With that outcome, Arsenal have now stretched their advantage at the summit of the Premier League standings to seven points, strengthening their grip on the championship race as the season edges closer to its climax. The development came after reigning champions Manchester City were held to a 2-2 stalemate by Nottingham Forest at the Etihad Stadium. Dropping points at home has significantly dented City’s pursuit of another league crown, despite the fact that they still possess a game in hand. Following these results, the Opta SuperComputer has adjusted its statistical forecasts. Arsenal’s likelihood of lifting the trophy has now surged to an overwhelming 92.84%, underlining their commanding position in the title battle. In contrast, Manchester City’s probability has fallen sharply to 7.16%, even though they have one outstanding fixture that could yet influence the final standings. Elsewhere, both Manchester United and Aston Villa suffered defeats to Newcastle United and Chelsea respectively. As a result, their mathematical chances of clinching the Premier League title have been reduced to zero, effectively ruling them out of contention according to the data model.
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The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has declared that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) currently controls 31 state governments across Nigeria, adding that additional governors are expected to align with the party in the near future. The governor made this statement on Wednesday during the formal reception ceremony held for new defectors in Benin City, the Edo State capital. The event drew party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters who gathered to witness the strengthening of the party’s structure within the state. Addressing attendees at the ceremony, Okpebholo appreciated the people of Edo State for the spirit of unity that, according to him, continues to consolidate the party’s influence and cohesion. He noted that the sense of togetherness among party faithful has played a major role in reinforcing APC’s dominance both at the state and national levels. According to him: “Let me begin by appreciating the people of Edo State for the unity that binds us together and keeps us under one political platform. We now have 31 governors under the All Progressives Congress, APC, and I want to inform you that more governors are on their way to join our fold. I must also convey my deep appreciation to our father, for whom this gathering is held today, President Bola Tinubu. He has been exceptionally supportive to us, and we assure him that Edo State will stand firmly with him in the 2027 general elections.” The governor further emphasized his administration’s commitment to strengthening party structures in the state ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. He reiterated that Edo would remain supportive of the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, describing him as a strong pillar behind the party’s growth and national presence. The reception of defectors, according to party officials present at the event, reflects the continued realignment within Nigeria’s political landscape as preparations gradually build toward the next general elections.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally approved the extension of Prof. Ayo Omotayo’s tenure as Director-General of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State. The renewal grants him a concluding four-year term in office. The announcement was made on Wednesday through an official statement released by the President’s spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga. The communication explained that the reappointment reflects the administration’s trust in Prof. Omotayo’s leadership capacity and his sustained input toward strategic policy development and Nigeria’s broader national advancement agenda. According to reports from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Prof. Omotayo initially assumed the role in November 2021 following his appointment by former President Muhammadu Buhari. His nomination later received confirmation from the Senate in February 2022, solidifying his leadership at the institute. An academic with deep expertise in environmental sustainability, Prof. Omotayo earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Geography from the University of Ibadan, where he pursued his studies between 1980 and 1990. His professional journey in academia commenced at Lagos State University in 1985. Demonstrating notable scholarly progress, he advanced rapidly within the institution and attained the rank of Senior Lecturer in 1992 at the age of 30. Over the years, he occupied several key administrative and academic positions. Between 2012 and 2017, he served as Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Lagos State University. Before his elevation to the position of Director-General of NIPSS in 2021, he was the Director of the Centre for Planning at the same university, where he contributed to institutional strategy and development planning. The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) remains Nigeria’s foremost public policy think tank. The institution is central to the training of high-level public officials and stakeholders, while also promoting informed dialogue on governance, national strategy, and long-term development planning. Through its programmes, NIPSS continues to shape policy discourse and leadership orientation across the country.
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The Nigerian Army has called on personnel serving under the 14 Brigade Ohafia to consistently respect human rights and safeguard the rights of children while carrying out their official responsibilities. The military authority also cautioned officers and soldiers against engaging in gambling activities and substance abuse, emphasizing that such behaviors could undermine discipline and professionalism within the force. This directive was delivered in Umuahia, Abia State, during the opening session of a two-day sensitisation programme organized for troops of the 14 Brigade Ohafia. The workshop was conducted under the framework of the Army’s Civil-Military Affairs initiative, aimed at strengthening cooperation between the military and the civilian population. During the programme, the troops were reminded of the importance of professionalism and ethical conduct in the discharge of their duties. They were specifically warned against sharing confidential images, operational details, or sensitive information on social media platforms. According to the facilitators, such disclosures could be intercepted by malicious actors and potentially exploited for criminal purposes, thereby jeopardizing national security and operational integrity. Addressing the gathering, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs of the Nigerian Army, Musa Awwal Etsu-Ndagi, explained that the workshop was designed to refresh and update soldiers’ knowledge about their rights as service members, as well as the rights of civilians and children within communities where they operate. He stated that the training would further equip them with guidance on maintaining professionalism, discipline, and respect for the rule of law. Maj. Gen. Etsu-Ndagi also encouraged personnel to complete and update their Next of Kin forms. He noted that ensuring accurate and current records would help protect the families of soldiers, particularly their spouses and children, from exploitation, fraud, or victimization in the unfortunate event of a service member’s death. In addition, he urged troops to promote unity, affection, and harmony within their families, stressing that strong family bonds contribute positively to emotional stability and overall effectiveness in service. As part of the lectures delivered during the workshop, Bekwele Chukwu, Deputy Controller of Narcotics at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), educated the soldiers on the risks associated with consuming unauthorized or controlled substances. He warned that the intake of such drugs could impair mental clarity and judgment, which are essential qualities for personnel entrusted with national security responsibilities. Earlier in his remarks, the Commander of the 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, Ahmad Mansur Dikko, expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, for facilitating the workshop. He acknowledged the significance of the sensitisation programme in reinforcing discipline, awareness, and responsible conduct among the troops. The two-day engagement forms part of broader efforts by the Nigerian Army to enhance civil-military relations, strengthen ethical standards, and promote accountability among its personnel.
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Adamu Garba, a former presidential aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed concern over the ongoing ground and aerial attacks reportedly carried out by Kurdish forces alongside Israeli troops targeting Iran. Garba stated that the coordinated land and air operations could significantly strain Iran’s defenses, warning that the situation might deteriorate rapidly. According to him, the intensity of the assault suggests that the coming hours may prove even more challenging for Tehran. In a statement shared on Facebook, Garba further alleged that the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has reportedly assembled approximately 50,000 personnel in preparation for potential offensive deployment against Iran. He indicated that such mobilization, if confirmed, would represent a major widening of the confrontation. These reported developments point to a sharp rise in geopolitical tensions across the Middle East, heightening fears of a broader regional conflict involving multiple actors. Garba wrote: “Simultaneous air and ground offensives have been launched against Iran by Kurdish units and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The night ahead will be even more difficult for Iran. “At the same time, the United States Central Command has reportedly positioned about 50,000 troops, specifically prepared for offensive operations directed at Iran. The conflict is intensifying at a very fast pace. “Targeting Tehran reflects an act of desperation by the U.S.–Israel partnership, aimed more at causing suffering than achieving any decisive strategic objective. “It is ironic that some of the strongest critics of Iran’s clerical leadership reside in cities such as Tehran. “Attacks on these urban centers risk amplifying resentment and may drive many citizens toward backing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) out of retaliation rather than ideological alignment.
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Vice President Kashim Shettima has clarified that the newly introduced tax reform policies are not designed to worsen economic hardship for Nigerians. Instead, he explained that the measures are structured to remove the heavy burden of multiple taxation affecting small enterprises and low-income earners across the country, ultimately contributing to poverty reduction. According to Shettima, the design and rollout of the tax reforms were carefully thought through to enhance citizens’ living conditions. He stressed that claims suggesting the reforms would further impoverish Nigerians are inaccurate and politically motivated. The Vice President delivered these remarks on behalf of President Bola Tinubu during an interfaith breaking of fast event held in observance of Ramadan and Lent at the State House. He explained that the administration remains deeply concerned about the economic struggles faced by many Nigerians and has continued to introduce policy tools aimed at easing hardship. He emphasized that these reforms are intended to uplift vulnerable groups without placing additional financial pressure on them. Addressing criticisms surrounding the tax policies, Shettima stated that some individuals spreading fears about the reforms are misinforming the public. He maintained that the objective of the new framework is to simplify the tax system, reduce overlapping charges, and create a more equitable structure for small businesses and ordinary citizens. He further noted that the government has a responsibility to communicate openly with Nigerians regarding its economic direction. According to him, there is a need for proactive engagement, including educating citizens about the true intentions behind the reforms and countering narratives that portray them negatively. The Vice President also pointed to broader economic adjustments already undertaken by the administration. These include strengthening the country’s foreign exchange reserves, harmonizing exchange rate mechanisms, and removing a long-standing fuel subsidy arrangement that, according to the government, primarily benefited a limited segment of the population. Shettima stated that the bold steps taken by President Tinubu demonstrate leadership and a willingness to confront structural challenges that previous governments avoided addressing. He argued that while such reforms may generate debate, they are necessary for long-term economic stability and inclusive growth. He concluded by reiterating that the overall goal of the tax reform agenda is to create a more transparent, efficient, and growth-driven system capable of improving national revenue without worsening poverty levels.
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The Lagos State Government has issued a stern caution to property owners who have not yet paid their 2025 Land Use Charge, urging them to clear all outstanding liabilities before enforcement operations begin. The advisory was contained in an official announcement regarding the issuance of the 2026 Land Use Charge bills. The statement, endorsed by Adeleke Quadri, Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Finance, was released to journalists on Wednesday. In the communication, the government reaffirmed its dedication to delivering critical infrastructure and essential public services to residents throughout Lagos State. It encouraged property holders to utilise the 15 per cent rebate available for early settlement by paying within the stipulated deadline. According to the statement, authorities will soon commence compliance actions against individuals and organisations that defaulted on their 2025 Land Use Charge obligations. The ministry stressed that prompt compliance would help property owners avoid penalties and additional legal consequences. The government described the Land Use Charge as a vital revenue stream that underpins the planning, development, maintenance, and modernisation of public assets. Funds realised from this levy contribute directly to projects such as road construction, hospital upgrades, school improvements, and strengthened security architecture across the state. It further explained that taxpayer contributions have financed landmark initiatives including the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line and the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Red Line. Both rail corridors have significantly enhanced mobility within the metropolis by shortening commute durations and easing pressure on major highways. Beyond rail development, proceeds from the charge have supported the construction and rehabilitation of strategic roads and bridges designed to improve connectivity and reduce traffic bottlenecks. Revenue has also facilitated the expansion and upgrade of healthcare institutions to broaden access to quality medical care. In addition, security interventions have been strengthened to promote a safer atmosphere for residents and commercial operators alike. Speaking on the distribution of the 2026 bills, Tajudeen Mahmud, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, underscored the necessity of adherence among property owners. He stated that the Land Use Charge is not merely a statutory obligation but a civic responsibility that directly fuels the state’s advancement. Mahmud explained that every remittance supports improved transportation networks, enhanced healthcare delivery, better educational facilities, reinforced public safety systems, and environmental sustainability. He therefore appealed to property stakeholders to discharge their responsibilities without delay and align with the administration’s broader development blueprint. The statement also reaffirmed that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains focused on his administration’s objective of building a secure, resilient, and globally competitive megacity. Through deliberate policy formulation and sustained infrastructure investment, the government continues to pursue inclusive growth, attract both domestic and foreign investors, and solidify Lagos as a major commercial and innovation hub in West Africa. Property owners were reminded that fulfilling their Land Use Charge obligations is essential to sustaining these transformative projects. Payments can be processed through multiple channels, including internet banking platforms, designated bank branches statewide, USSD mobile payment codes, Point of Sale terminals located at Land Use Charge offices, the Lagos Online Assistant WhatsApp line (+2348078441111), and the official Lagos Revenue Portal. The government also reiterated that qualified property owners should take advantage of the 15 per cent early payment incentive while contributing meaningfully to the continued transformation and structured growth of the state. For further understanding of how property taxation supports urban development and infrastructure financing globally, readers may consult resources from the World Bank, which provides extensive insights into municipal revenue systems and sustainable city funding models.
