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By Wonderful Adegoke 

“I’ve also had to absorb the cost of failed transactions,” lamented Adeyemi Ademola, a food seller on campus at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), her voice tinged with frustration and despair. 

Struggling to keep her business afloat, Ademola’s story highlights the pervasive challenges stemming from disrupted banking services. Her small shop, which supplies students with staples like rice, beans, garri, and other essentials, has been eerily quiet. The culprit? Persistent banking service disruptions, especially from Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) and Access Bank, which her customers rely on for online payments.

Ademola’s predicament mirrors the experiences of countless others who cannot access essential banking services. GTB’s ongoing downtime—part of its transition to a new core banking application system—has left many in limbo. Even a visit to customer care brought little solace, as the explanation of “technical disruptions” linked to recent system upgrades felt more like a dismissal than a solution. Such upgrades, ostensibly aimed at fortifying defences against cyberattacks, have instead sown doubt about the security and efficiency of these systems.

The upgrades, though necessary, come with inevitable growing pains. Migrating vast amounts of customer data and integrating it across multiple platforms—from ATMs to mobile apps—is complex and time-intensive. Customers, however, bear the brunt of these transitions, enduring weeks or even months of service disruptions that hinder daily transactions.

In the past quarter alone, several commercial banks in Nigeria have initiated IT upgrades to bolster their operations and prepare for an increasingly competitive future. While these efforts are laudable, they have had far-reaching effects, straining banking operations and customer satisfaction. 

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports that the banking sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP rose to 16.36% in Q2 2024, a testament to significant technological investments. Yet, for many, these figures are cold comfort amidst recurring downtimes and transaction failures.

Ademola’s weariness is palpable. She confides that her trust in traditional banking institutions, once the cornerstone of financial stability, is eroding. The persistent disruptions have cost her business revenue and undermined the basic operations on which her enterprise depends.

Lost Sales, Revenue, and Opportunities

The ripple effects of these banking failures are felt across various sectors. Rabi’u Bawa, a POS attendant, recounts her struggles: lost sales, revenue, and opportunities due to failed transactions. She still haunts the memory of a recent incident—a Sterling Bank system failure that left her unable to process payments. The frustrated customer walked away, leaving Bawa to shoulder the financial loss.

“This isn’t an isolated incident,” Bawa shares, her tone heavy with frustration. She’s frequently faced delayed payments and disputes stemming from unprocessed transactions. When her account is debited, but the recipient remains untouched, she finds herself mired in time-consuming and costly resolution processes, often at the expense of her reputation.

The disruptions have had devastating consequences for Adepoju Victor, an entrepreneur dealing with laptop repairs and phone accessories. “The stress and anxiety have taken a toll on my mental health,” he admits, his voice betraying sleepless nights spent worrying about his business. “The banks need to take responsibility for their actions and find a solution to this recurring problem.” His sentiment is echoed by many who have poured their resources and efforts into enterprises now threatened by systemic banking inefficiencies.

Service Disruptions Violate Customers’ Rights

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned financial institutions sternly about the crisis. According to a statement by Tunji Bello, the Commission’s Chief Executive Officer, these disruptions inconvenience customers and infringe upon their rights.

“Interruptions that impede customers from engaging in transactions or accessing essential funds are not merely an inconvenience,” Bello asserts. “They may constitute a violation of fundamental consumer rights.” The Commission’s stance underscores the urgency for banks to address these disruptions swiftly and decisively.

As customers continue to grapple with the fallout of these disruptions, Nigeria’s banking sector must balance technological advancements with reliable service delivery. Until then, entrepreneurs like Ademola, Bawa, and Victor have remained at the mercy of a system struggling to adapt to its progress.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB) has confirmed the appointment of one Deputy Comptroller General (DCG) and seven Assistant Comptrollers General (ACGs), in addition to promoting 4,291 senior officers.

According to a statement signed and released on Friday by customs spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada, the new management team members include DCG S Chiroma and ACGs ZM Gaji, OA Adebakin, GM Omale, MS Yusuf, DA Nnadi, HK Ejibunu, and D Hassan, who will fill vacancies created by retirements in various geopolitical zones.

The statement reads, “The Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB), at its 61st regular meeting held on 18 December 2024, chaired by the Honorable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, confirmed the appointment of one Deputy Comptroller General (DCG) and seven Assistant Comptrollers General (ACGs). Additionally, 4,291 senior officers were promoted.

“The newly confirmed Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Management Team members include DCG S Chiroma (North-East) and ACGs ZM Gaji (North-East), OA Adebakin (South-West), GM Omale (North-Central), MS Yusuf (North-Central), DA Nnadi (South-East), HK Ejibunu (North-Central), and D Hassan (North-East). These appointments are to fill the vacancies created based on the retirement of some management team members from the affected geopolitical zones of the federation. The action further aligns with the Service’s commitment to national inclusivity, institutional balance, and adherence to the Federal Character Policy as outlined in Section 14(4) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.”

The Board also approved special promotions for 16 deserving officers and a posthumous promotion for the late Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Etop Andrew Essien, in recognition of his invaluable contributions and dedication.

Furthermore, the Board approved a strategic restructuring, transferring the Post Clearance Audit (PCA) Unit to the Office of the Comptroller General to ensure stronger oversight and increased efficiency.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, congratulated the newly appointed, promoted, and retained officers, urging them to uphold the Service’s core mandates and pursue excellence.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

Taxation is not merely a tool for generating revenue; it is a cornerstone for fostering national balance and ensuring the collective survival of all citizens. Recognizing this, with wisdom, Nigeria has exempted many essential goods and services such as agricultural produce, fertilizers, certain baby products, and healthcare items from taxation or VAT. This policy ensures that food items like rice, maize, sorghum, millet, beans, and meat—produced in states like Kano, Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, etc —can reach markets in Enugu, Lagos, and Port Harcourt, where they are accessible to Nigerians at reasonable prices.

Conversely, products such as fertilizers, agricultural machinery, baby items, and healthcare essentials manufactured in industrial hubs like Aba, Ibadan, Warri, and Lagos, etc., remain affordable across the country, including the northern states, because they are VAT-exempt. This interconnected economic framework fosters interdependence among states and promotes equitable access to essential goods, irrespective of geographic location.

However, the current discourse surrounding the proposed tax reform bill, particularly its provisions on VAT, has raised concerns about fairness and equity. Rather than serving as a unifying mechanism, the proposed VAT contributions and their sharing formula have become a source of tension, with some Nigerians—especially from the North—perceiving the system as skewed in favour of economically dominant states like Lagos. This perception has fueled suspicions, leading to terms like “Lagos colonialism” being used to describe the perceived imbalance in resource allocation and benefit distribution in the new VAT bill if passed into law by two chambers of the National Assembly 

To address these concerns, the tax reform bill must be designed to generate revenue and reflect the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and Nigeria’s complex politics.

Taxation policies should be a tool for strengthening national unity, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of region or state, feels an equitable share of the nation’s prosperity. There is no need to rush to nowhere- the government must patiently engage in transparent dialogue and adopt a balanced approach that considers the diverse economic contributions and needs of all states. 

One key reason the North rejected the bills is that President Tinubu’s administration is facing growing suspicion among many Northerners due to certain policies, programs, and appointments. This is a troubling development for a government that, before coming to power, proudly counted the North as its political stronghold and key support base.

Such distrust is damaging not only to the administration’s credibility but also to national unity. To maintain the confidence of all Nigerians, it is crucial for the government to address these concerns transparently, ensuring that its actions reflect inclusivity and fairness. Economics and politics often intertwine. When political backlash outweighs economic benefits, retreat and consultation are essential.

The Tinubu government must strive to deliver on its promises while fostering trust across all states and demographics, particularly among those who believe in its leadership.

In essence, taxation should not be seen as a divisive tool but as a bridge that connects the unique strengths of each state and region, fostering a truly united and prosperous Nigeria.

 Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja via zaymohd@yahoo.com.

By Uzair Adam

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima are set to spend over N9.36 billion on local and international travels, as well as refreshments, in 2025.

Details of the expenditures are contained in the 2025 Appropriation Bill presented by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

The proposed budget, totaling N49.7 trillion, was presented to the National Assembly on Wednesday under the theme: ‘Restoration Budget, Securing Peace and Building Prosperity.’

According to the proposal, President Tinubu’s travels and refreshments will cost N7.44 billion, while Vice President Shettima’s similar expenses will amount to N1.9 billion.

For the president, international travels are expected to consume N6.14 billion, while local trips will cost N873.9 million. In addition, N431.6 million has been allocated for refreshments, meals, foodstuffs, and catering supplies.

The vice president’s travel expenses include N1.31 billion for international trips and N417.5 million for local ones.

Refreshments, meals, and catering for the vice president are budgeted at N186.02 million. Between January and March 2024, President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima, and First Lady Remi Tinubu reportedly spent over N5.24 billion on travel expenses, according to data from GovSpend, a civic tech platform tracking government expenditures.

The presidency has also allocated N10.6 billion for vehicles, honorariums, and fuel. Of this amount, N4.76 billion is earmarked for vehicles, including N3.66 billion for operational vehicles and N1 billion for replacing Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs).

An additional N255.7 million is budgeted for other vehicle purchases, including SUVs for the presidential fleet. Other allocations include N5.93 billion for honorariums, fuel for generators, and the construction of offices for Special Advisers (SAs) and Senior Special Assistants (SSAs).

Notably, N2.12 billion is set aside for sitting allowances and honorariums, while N1.99 billion is for fuel expenses.

The N49.7 trillion budget has passed its second reading in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The appropriation bill will now proceed to the respective Committees on Appropriations for further scrutiny.

In addition, the House of Representatives approved a bill to extend the capital component of the 2024 budget to June 30, 2025, to ensure ongoing projects are completed.

Both chambers of the National Assembly have adjourned until January 14, 2025, for the yuletide recess.

By Uzair Adam

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has disclosed that the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), and 13 other agencies failed to meet the standards set by its 2024 Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard (EICS).

This revelation underscores the inability of several prominent institutions to adhere to the ethical benchmarks established by the ICPC.

The announcement was made on Thursday in Abuja during the unveiling of the agency’s EICS report by Dr. Musa Aliyu, Chairman of the ICPC, who was represented by Demola Bakare, the Director of Public Enlightenment and Education.

According to Aliyu, a total of 330 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) were evaluated in the outgoing year, with none achieving full compliance.

Among the 15 non-compliant MDAs were the University of Ibadan (UI), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Legal Aid Council, Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, the Federal Civil Service Commission, and several others.

These agencies reportedly failed to conduct system studies or submit required financial and audit reports.

Aliyu cautioned that the ICPC would take necessary enforcement measures to ensure compliance.

Despite the shortcomings of some MDAs, he commended the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for leading the compliance rankings with a score of 89.75 percent, followed by the Nigeria Railway Corporation (89.33 percent) and Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (88.73 percent).

The assessment focused on indicators such as Management Culture and Structure, Governance and Executive Management, Financial Management Systems, and Administrative Systems. It also examined policies on ethics education, whistle-blowing mechanisms, and stock verification.

Aliyu stated that the EICS serves as a tool for identifying gaps, advising on policy, and fostering self-evaluation among MDAs. Between December 2023 and December 2024, the ICPC tracked 1,500 projects across 22 states, valued at N610 billion, recovering N346 million in cash, N400 million in assets, and saving N30 billion for the government.

The report highlighted that 29.55 percent of MDAs achieved substantial compliance, 51.62 percent partial compliance, and 2.92 percent were categorized as non-compliant.

Jimoh Sulaiman, Head of the Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Initiative, noted that tracking projects had increased completion rates and public accountability.

“Nigerians now realize that project funding originates from the Federal Government, not politicians’ pockets, leading to greater demand for accountability,” he said.

By Uzair Adam

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has refuted claims of owning a piece of land recently revoked by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) in Abuja.

The controversy stems from Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike’s announcement of the revocation of 762 plots of land in the Maitama 1 District due to non-payment of statutory fees.

Among the high-profile names reportedly affected are former President Buhari and ex-Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen.

Additionally, the FCTA has issued a two-week ultimatum to 614 individuals and organizations to settle outstanding Rights of Occupancy (R-of-O) fees or risk losing their plots.

However, in a statement released by his media aide, Garba Shehu, Buhari denied ownership of the land in question, which had been allocated in the name of a “Muhammadu Buhari Foundation.”

He clarified that the foundation was independently established by well-meaning individuals and not directly linked to him.

“Shehu explained, “When the former President and his cabinet members were invited to apply for land during his tenure, he declined the offer, stating he already owned a plot in the FCT. He suggested the land be allocated to those without one.”

The statement further noted that the Muhammadu Buhari Foundation encountered challenges in obtaining the certificate of occupancy due to an exorbitant bill from the land department of the FCDA, which eventually led to the revocation.

“Those speculating about Buhari’s alleged land ownership should verify their facts and avoid spreading misinformation,” Shehu added.

The media aide emphasized that Buhari has no personal connection to the revoked land, as he owns only one plot of land in the Federal Capital Territory.

By Rabi Ummi Umar

Journalism is a global profession of significance, recognised and protected by constitutional statutes. In Nigeria, it is the only profession explicitly acknowledged in the 1999 Constitution.

Chapter 2, Section 22, titled Obligation of the Mass Media, mandates that “The press, radio, television, and other agencies of the mass media shall at all times be free to uphold the fundamental objectives contained in this Chapter and uphold the responsibility and accountability of the Government to the people.”

Similarly, Chapter 4, Section 39 guarantees “freedom of expression and the press,” ensuring every citizen’s right to hold opinions and share information freely.

With these constitutional provisions, journalists are tasked with informing the public and bridging the gap between government and citizens. They serve as vital agents of transparency and accountability, reinforcing democracy by fostering open communication and trust.

However, the path of a journalist is fraught with challenges. While the profession is often romanticised as noble, those outside the field frequently underestimate its complexities.

In today’s digital era, citizen journalism has blurred the lines between professional journalism and unverified information shared on social media. The advent of blogs and platforms has given rise to individuals claiming to be journalists without formal training, undermining the profession’s credibility.

Real journalists with specialised training adhere to high verification and reporting standards. However, distinguishing them from impostors is becoming increasingly tricky, primarily online.

For instance, the recent case of Hamdiyya Sidi Shariff, who published unverified claims about the Sokoto State government, highlights the consequences of misinformation. Although she eventually apologised, her actions emphasised the need for professionalism and ethical standards in journalism.

Untrained influencers and bloggers often disseminate half-truths or outright falsehoods before verified news reaches the public. Their fame and large followings make it harder for audiences to discern fact from fiction.

This misleads the public and makes it challenging for trained journalists to correct narratives. Professional journalists face immense personal and professional pressures.

They contend with fatigue, low motivation, and depression but must persevere for the sake of public service. On the streets, they endure insults and harassment while gathering stories, often risking their safety and personal relationships.

Investigative journalists, in particular, face the highest risks, with some losing their lives in pursuit of the truth. Police harassment is another recurring issue. Journalists are frequently detained or obstructed while on assignments despite their role as allies serving the public interest.

Such hostility erodes trust between security agencies and the press, undermining collaboration.

Misinformation poses one of the greatest threats to journalism. Nigerians and citizen journalists must understand that setting the nation on a better path requires a civil, constructive approach. Publicly disparaging the government or amplifying unverified claims online worsens problems without offering meaningful solutions.

Journalists must be empowered to tackle these challenges effectively. This begins with creating an environment where journalists feel safe and valued. Providing resources for unhindered reporting, ensuring mental and physical well-being, and recognising exceptional contributions through awards can significantly boost morale.

Collaboration is also essential. Journalists should partner with lawyers, security agencies, and other stakeholders to form coalitions that uphold ethical practices and safeguard the profession’s integrity.

Finally, journalists must advocate for safe civic spaces where everyone can share information without fear. Upholding constitutional protections is crucial, but building trust, professionalism, and resilience is equally essential for journalism to thrive. Only then can the press fulfil its role as the cornerstone of democracy and accountability.

Rabi Ummi Umar is a student at Al-Hikmah University, and she can be reached via rabiumar058@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Army has handed over housing units to 20 soldiers who sustained injuries in action, as part of efforts to enhance the welfare of its personnel.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, inaugurated the Nigerian Army Housing Units under the Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers Scheme in Abuja on Wednesday.

The keys to the newly constructed houses were presented to the beneficiaries during the ceremony.

In his remarks, Musa urged other military services to adopt similar schemes to provide housing for all personnel.

He commended the project as a testament to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who prioritized the welfare of soldiers during his tenure.

He also applauded the current Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for sustaining the initiative and ensuring more housing units would be built for interested personnel.

“The importance of owning a decent shelter in a soldier’s life cannot be overstated, as it promises stability, security, and peace of mind, enabling them to focus fully on their duties,” Musa stated.

The CDS noted that the project aligns with the federal government’s vision of affordable housing under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estate Scheme.

He called on the Nigerian Army to replicate such projects across the Federal Capital Territory and other regions, noting their potential to boost development, improve security, and foster socio-economic benefits for residents.

Musa also appealed to state governors to allocate land for similar projects, as the land available in Abuja may not suffice to meet the housing needs of all personnel.

The COAS, Lieutenant General Oluyede, revealed that the project was part of the administrative philosophy of the late Lieutenant General Lagbaja, who believed in placing soldiers at the core of the army’s welfare agenda.

The Idu Abuja Phase 1 of the scheme, which took 15 months to complete, represents a milestone in addressing the housing needs of soldiers and their families.

“This phase will house 400 subscribers and their families. The ultimate goal is to support every soldier’s dream of owning a suitable and befitting post-service living accommodation,” Oluyede said.

He pledged to oversee the immediate completion of subsequent phases in Benin City, Ibadan, and Uyo to fulfill the army’s promise of affordable housing for its personnel.

The initiative is expected to alleviate housing challenges and strengthen the bond between the military and the civilian population, which will further solidify the Nigerian Army’s role in national development.

By Uzair Adam

A Kano State High Court has ordered the Kano State Government to pay N8.511 billion to Lamash Properties Limited as compensation for the demolition of buildings carried out on the directive of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in June 2023.

The court also mandated the state government, Governor Yusuf, and the attorney general to pay an additional N10 million to cover the cost of filing the lawsuit.

Lamash Properties Limited, through its counsel Nureini Jimoh, SAN, argued that the property was legally acquired through a valid agreement with the administration of former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.

Justice Sunusi Ma’aji, who presided over the case, ruled that the agreement was enforceable and criticized the demolition as unwarranted.

The court ordered monetary compensation equivalent to the buildings’ value since restoration was not possible.

Defendants’ counsel, Ibrahim Wangida, alleged procedural lapses, including a lack of proper notification for court proceedings.

He disclosed that the defense team had filed a motion to nullify the judgment, which was dismissed by the court.

The Kano State Government has faced significant financial consequences due to the governor’s demolition of structures deemed illegal.

Earlier in September 2023, a Federal High Court awarded N30 billion in damages against the government for demolitions at Kofar Mata Eid Ground.

Governor Yusuf’s actions have drawn both support and criticism, with some applauding his efforts to reclaim public property and others condemning his approach as arbitrary.

By Usman Abdullahi Koli 

The Nigerian healthcare system has long faced challenges that make accessing quality care difficult, especially for the average citizen. Many patients have endured unnecessary struggles during critical moments, from long queues at registration units to delays in retrieving medical records. Tragically, these inefficiencies have, in some cases, led to preventable losses—not just because of late arrivals at hospitals but also due to prolonged registration and file retrieval processes.

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) Bauchi has boldly changed this narrative. Staying true to its vision and mission, the hospital has introduced an innovative e-health system to alleviate these issues. This transformation goes beyond addressing immediate challenges—it sets ATBUTH on a path to becoming a leader in modern, patient-focused healthcare in Nigeria.

ATBUTH has been a symbol of hope for years, offering quality healthcare to countless patients while continuously striving to improve its services. Recognizing the growing needs of modern healthcare, the hospital has embraced advanced digital solutions to revolutionize how it delivers care.

Adopting an Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system, seamlessly integrated with the eCMDS platform, reflects ATBUTH’s commitment to progress and patient well-being. This transformative step simplifies operations, improves administrative processes, and creates a more compassionate, patient-centred experience for everyone who walks through its doors.

The introduction of e-health at ATBUTH also aligns with a Federal Government policy to digitize public services. This initiative aligns with global trends, ensuring healthcare services are faster, safer, and easier to access. Digitizing patient records, registration, billing, and laboratory results drastically reduces waiting times and makes every interaction smoother.

The EMR system protects patient data from being lost or tampered with, while automated processes close gaps that could lead to fraud or revenue loss. Furthermore, the centralized database enables researchers to access accurate, real-time information, fostering medical advancements. This leap into digitization firmly establishes ATBUTH as a forward-thinking institution ready to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with leading hospitals in Nigeria and beyond.

Although the implementation of the e-health system has been highly successful, challenges still exist. One of the most pressing issues is network reliability, which can sometimes be unpredictable. However, the hospital’s management is actively working to resolve these issues permanently to ensure uninterrupted services. Unfortunately, specific individuals have also attempted to undermine this initiative by spreading misinformation and discouraging public trust. Such actions disrupt progress and risk undoing the remarkable strides ATBUTH has made in improving healthcare delivery.

Everyone must understand that progress is a journey that moves forward, not backwards. For ATBUTH to maintain its momentum as a leader in healthcare innovation, it needs the collective support of patients, staff, and the public. Adopting the e-health system is not just about modernizing healthcare—it’s about making services more accessible, efficient, and humane.

Despite being a relatively young institution, ATBUTH has achieved remarkable feats rivalling even the country’s most established hospitals. This e-health initiative is a testament to the hospital’s determination to excel and better serve its community.

ATBUTH’s e-health system is more than just a technological upgrade—it is a lifeline for thousands of patients who rely on the hospital for their care. As this digital transformation continues to evolve, the public must embrace and support it wholeheartedly. Together, we can ensure ATBUTH remains a trusted name in healthcare and a symbol of progress in Nigeria’s health sector.

Usman Abdullahi Koli writes from Bauchi.