The Federal Government, through the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, clarified that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, played no role in the political unrest in Rivers State. The crisis, which led to President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency, has intensified debates between the federal authorities and state officials. Federal Allocations and Leadership Transition The AGF emphasized that Rivers State’s federal allocations, previously withheld due to the turmoil, would be released upon request to the newly appointed sole administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (retd.), who was assigned by President Tinubu to oversee the state’s affairs. The government justified the emergency rule, stating it was essential to prevent further deterioration. The AGF accused the suspended governor, Siminalayi Fubara, of allegedly influencing militants to attack critical infrastructure, including oil pipelines. Clarifying Wike’s Involvement Addressing speculations, the AGF dismissed claims that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had orchestrated the crisis. He stated that Wike was not responsible for the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly, the budget impasse, or the controversial appointment process of commissioners. Legal interpretations from the Supreme Court highlighted constitutional violations committed by Governor Fubara, further legitimizing the emergency rule. The AGF asserted that the governor’s actions destabilized governance, leading to the need for federal intervention. Root Cause of the Political Crisis The political turmoil in Rivers State traces back to late 2023 when governance disputes escalated. The AGF noted that Governor Fubara allegedly sidelined the legislative process, operating with only a few lawmakers instead of the full House of Assembly. This led to legal battles, with multiple Supreme Court rulings underscoring the governor’s breaches of constitutional provisions. One of the most critical findings was Fubara’s purported attempt to preempt impeachment by undermining the legislature. The AGF likened the governor’s actions to those of a despot, arguing that they rendered governance in the state ineffective. Security Concerns and Oil Pipeline Vandalism Security issues played a significant role in the federal government’s decision. The AGF alleged that Governor Fubara tacitly encouraged militant groups, failing to dissuade them from acts of sabotage. A week after he allegedly signaled his support, vital oil infrastructure was attacked, reducing Nigeria’s oil production output, which had previously increased under Tinubu’s administration. Nigeria’s economy heavily depends on oil revenue, and any threats to its infrastructure impact national stability. The AGF stated that those who sabotage the oil industry are not just enemies of Rivers State but of Nigeria as a whole. Implications and National Assembly’s Role President Tinubu’s emergency declaration awaits National Assembly approval, requiring a two-thirds majority vote. Critics argue that the decision was rushed, but the AGF countered that delaying action could have worsened the situation. The declaration also serves as a warning to other states, signaling that the federal government is prepared to take strict measures to prevent governance failures and security breakdowns. What Lies Ahead for Rivers State? With the emergency rule in place, Rivers State faces a transitional phase under the appointed administrator. The move sets a precedent for federal intervention in state governance during crises. As the National Assembly deliberates on the matter, political stakeholders remain divided on whether the action was necessary or excessive. For further insights into Nigeria’s political landscape, visit this reputable source for updates on governance and legal affairs. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has officially commenced the construction of two bypasses on the Second Niger Bridge, enhancing connectivity between the Asaba-Benin and Enugu-Onitsha expressways. To facilitate this development, the government has allocated 30% mobilization funds to kick-start the project. Additionally, the Federal Government has assured that the reconstruction of the flood-damaged East-West Road in Rivers State will be completed between December 2025 and March 2026. Government’s Commitment to Infrastructure Development During an inspection tour of federal road projects in Rivers State, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, provided an update on the progress. He highlighted the government’s commitment to infrastructure enhancement, noting that mobilization payments for critical road projects, including Abuja-Kano (sections 1 and 3), have also been made. Umahi expressed enthusiasm about the commencement of the Second Niger Bridge bypasses, emphasizing that construction is being handled by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and China Jiangxi Corporation (CJC). The 30% mobilization ensures the timely execution of the project, which will integrate the newly completed Second Niger Bridge into Nigeria’s national road network. Key Federal Road Projects Underway As part of his two-day project inspection, Umahi visited several ongoing federal road construction sites, including: Boosting Local Contractors for Sustainable Development Umahi reiterated President Tinubu’s directive to empower local contractors to bridge infrastructural gaps. He emphasized that while expatriate contractors play a role, developing local expertise is essential for long-term sustainability. Speaking on the East-West Road project, Umahi stated, “Ensuring the road’s stability is our priority. A major factor contributing to rapid deterioration is poor structural support, and we are tackling this issue by reinforcing key sections with concrete technology.” Conclusion With the federal government prioritizing key infrastructure projects, the Second Niger Bridge bypasses and the East-West Road reconstruction will significantly improve transportation and economic activities across Nigeria. For more updates on Nigeria’s infrastructure development, visit Federal Ministry of Works. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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The Federal Government has officially introduced tolling on the Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Makurdi Expressway, effective Tuesday, February 4. The announcement was made by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, during the inauguration of the tolling system at Garaku Toll Station in Nasarawa State. Under the new tolling structure, charges will vary based on vehicle type, with fees set at N500 for saloon cars, N800 for SUVs/Jeeps, N1,000 for minibuses, and N1,600 for multi-axle vehicles. Speaking through his representative, Bello Goronyo, the minister emphasized that funds collected from the toll would be allocated to the upkeep and development of federal roads across Nigeria. He highlighted the expressway’s importance in fostering economic growth, social connectivity, and national infrastructure. He further noted that frequent road users, particularly commercial light vehicles classified under the Federal Highway Act, would be eligible for a 50% discount on toll charges. Additionally, the new tolling policy exempts police, military, and other essential service vehicles from making payments. This move aims to enhance road maintenance efforts and improve Nigeria’s transportation network. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigeria Customs Service, and Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announced on Monday that they exceeded their respective revenue targets for the current fiscal year. During a session with the Joint Committee on Finance, Budget, and National Planning on the 2025-2027 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF-FSP), key agency leaders provided updates on their performance. Record-Breaking Revenue Achievements FIRS Chairman Zacchaeus Adedeji reported significant progress, stating that all revenue components surpassed expectations. For instance, N5.7 trillion was generated from company income tax, far exceeding the N4 trillion target, while education tax collections reached N1.5 trillion against a N70 billion target. Overall, FIRS realized N18.5 trillion out of the N19.4 trillion target by the end of September, with the expectation of further surpassing the annual projection. NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, shared that the company exceeded its 2024 revenue projection of N12.3 trillion by reaching N13.1 trillion before the third quarter’s end. For 2025, NNPCL aims to remit N23.7 trillion to the federation account. Similarly, Nigeria Customs Service Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi disclosed that as of September 30, the agency had generated N5.352 trillion, surpassing the N5.09 trillion 2024 target. Customs also set ambitious goals of N6.3 trillion for 2025 and annual 10% increases for subsequent years. Lawmakers Question Excessive Borrowing Despite these successes, lawmakers voiced concerns about the government’s reliance on borrowing to fund capital projects. Senator Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) questioned why borrowing persists despite strong revenue performances. In response, FIRS Chairman Adedeji clarified that borrowing is part of the National Assembly-approved appropriation act, ensuring that the executive operates within the legislature’s framework. Similarly, Budget and Economic Planning Minister Senator Atiku Bagudu emphasized that borrowing is necessary to address budget deficits, including the N9.7 trillion gap in the 2024 budget. Finance Minister Wale Edun reiterated that despite increased revenue, borrowing remains crucial for comprehensive budget funding, especially for developmental projects targeting the most vulnerable populations. Immigration Service Under Scrutiny The Nigeria Immigration Service faced backlash over a controversial private-public partnership (PPP) for passport production. The agreement, which allocates 70% of proceeds to a consultancy firm and only 30% to the government, was deemed “unacceptable” by committee chair Senator Sani Musa. He demanded a review or cancellation of the arrangement, instructing the agency to present all relevant documents by the end of the week. Looking Ahead For 2025, the government projects total revenue generation of N49.7 trillion, signaling continued efforts to optimize resources while addressing structural budgetary challenges. READ ALSO:
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Funds have been made available by the Federal Government to pay retiree benefits under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme and to refund unpaid salary owing to members of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Federal Universities. Payments to NASU members have begun, and many have already acknowledged receipt, according to a statement released by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation on Saturday by Bawa Mokwa, Director, Press and Public Relations. The Federal Government has released funds to pay the Non-Academic Staff Union of Federal Universities’ withheld salaries, according to the statement. The Federal Government has also made money available to pay benefits to retirees under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector, according to the OAGF. Monday, the SSANU Joint Action Committee and NASU went on an indefinite strike since its salary had been withheld for four months.Activities have since been based in colleges and universities all around the nation. READ ALSO: Lagos Speaker Presents Official Cars to Senior Workers. Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim, the National President of SSANU, said in a previous interview with The PUNCH on Wednesday that university officials, including as registrars, bursars, and vice-chancellors, were not paid for four months. According to him, the universities would thus continue to be fully closed until the money were received. We love to have you back, Kindly Subscribe tp our Newsletter.
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The ten firms chosen as the recipients of the newly announced N100 million AI Fund have been revealed by Google and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. Each chosen business will receive N10 million in funding through the Fund, which was created by the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) in partnership with Google. Additionally, each startup will receive up to $3.5 million in Google Cloud Credits to aid in the scaling of their ideas. These entrepreneurs will also have access to Google’s top-notch AI tools, receive guidance from Google’s AI specialists, and have the chance to network with partners and innovators around the world. Associated StoriesDr. Bosun Tijani, FG, reports that Google will provide an additional N2.8 billion to boost the growth of AI talent in Nigeria. The Google BOLD internship program will open for applications on October 31, 2024. requirements for blood supplies.Bunce: An AI-powered platform that helps businesses centralize and customize their interactions with customersA startup called CDIAL AI provides smooth text-to-speech and speech-to-text AI capabilities in 13 languages in underprivileged areas.Farmspeak: Uses AI to help livestock farmers with climate control and illness detection.Lendsqr: Uses AI to streamline lending processes, enabling lenders and borrowers worldwide.ProDevs: Uses AI-driven pre-classification and job matching to link international businesses with screened African tech talent.AI-powered energy management from Rana Energy maximizes sustainable power for underprivileged consumers.SaaSPro Health: AI-powered medical records with specially designed features for Nigerian physicians.Towntalk: Uses AI to give African communities contextual security insights so they may make well-informed decisions.Trade Lenda: Uses AI to streamline credit analysis for MSMEs, making borrowing more accessible.Taking on local issuesAs stated According to Google, by concentrating on industries like healthcare, agriculture, education, and governance, the businesses would be essential in tackling regional issues and utilizing AI to promote sustainable economic growth. READ ALSO: EFCC recovered over N248bn Crime Proceeds in One Year “Entrepreneurs throughout Africa are utilizing technology, including artificial intelligence, to tackle significant societal issues,” stated Matt Brittin, President of Google for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. “Google is still dedicated to assisting these trailblazers increase their influence both within and outside of the continent. “This partnership carries on our work in Africa, which has always been about enabling more people to benefit from the digital economy,” he continued. Things you should be aware ofThis project is in line with a larger analysis that emphasizes AI’s economic possibilities in Nigeria. Based on recent research findings from First, by 2030, Nigeria’s economy might gain up to $15 billion from artificial intelligence. Further demonstrating the importance of this partnership for Nigeria’s digital future, this program aims to harness that potential by providing local businesses and innovators with the tools, resources, and training necessary to utilize AI. It expands upon Google’s N1.2 billion pledge to Nigeria, made in 2023, with the goal of empowering 20,000 Nigerians via initiatives for economic growth and digital skills. We Love To Have You Back. Pease kindly Provide Us With Your Email.
