News

By Uzair Adam Imam

Today, Ondo State acting governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, will officially be sworn in as the new governor of Ondo State.

A reliable source at the state House of Assembly said that “it’s true that the acting governor would be sworn in today by 4 p.m.

The swearing-in ceremony for Ondo State’s new governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, comes after the recent passing of the previous governor, Rotimi Akeredolu.

He added that, “He is presently out of the state. As soon as he’s back, the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Olusegun Odusola, will swear him in as the governor.”

Recall that the state Information and Orientation Commissioner, Mrs Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, announced the death of the governor via a statement in Akure.

The statement read: “With a heavy heart, the Ondo State Government announces the tragic passing of our beloved Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN).

“Mr. Governor peacefully departed from this world in the early hours of today, Wednesday, December 27, 2023.

“This tragedy has left behind a profound void in our hearts. Governor Akeredolu answered the eternal call while receiving medical treatment in Germany.

“He succumbed to complications arising from protracted prostate cancer.

“A letter has been sent to President Bola Tinubu to officially inform him of this devastating news.

“The Family and the Ondo State Government appreciate Mr. President for his support for Governor Akeredolu during his illness.

“The family and the state government will release further details regarding the funeral arrangements.

“Governor Akeredolu was an extraordinary leader whose unwavering dedication to the state and its people was both commendable and unparalleled.

“He not only served as the Governor of Ondo State but also emerged as a prominent advocate for the entire Southwest region and the nation.

“Governor Akeredolu was a courageous leader and an exemplar of integrity. The weight of this loss is truly unbearable.

“However, we find solace in the knowledge that Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu lived a purposeful life, devoted to the service of God Almighty,” the statement added.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Ondo State is in mourning as Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, aged 67, succumbed to health challenges in Lagos.

Despite efforts to secure medical treatment abroad, the governor remained in Lagos under State House doctors’ care until his demise. 

Returning to Nigeria in September after a three-month medical leave in Germany, Akeredolu faced persistent health issues.

Recently on medical leave again, he handed over power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who has been acting as governor.

The late governor’s decision to govern remotely from Ibadan, Oyo State, sparked public outrage.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Ghali Umar Na”Abba, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, passed away early Wednesday in Abuja.

Sources indicate he succumbed to a brief illness at an Abuja hospital. 

Born on September 27, 1958, into the family of businessman Umar Na’Abba in Tudun Wada, Kano City, Na’Abba, a political science graduate from Ahmadu Bello University in 1979, left a notable mark on Nigerian politics. 

His early education at Jakara Primary School, Kano, and later at Rumfa College and the School of Preliminary Studies, Kano, paved the way for admission to Ahmadu Bello University in 1976.

In 2004, he capped his educational journey with a postgraduate programme on leadership and good governance at Harvard University.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A wave of outrage and grief swept through Plateau State as news broke of a brutal attack on Mushu village in Bokkos Local Government Area, leaving 16 innocent lives lost.

Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, in a swift and scathing response, condemned the “barbaric, brutal and uncalled for” act, pledging swift justice and proactive measures to curb further violence. 

The attack, details of which remain unclear, has plunged the community into mourning and heightened anxieties across the state.

While the perpetrators remain unidentified, Governor Mutfwang’s strong stance served as a beacon of hope amidst the tragedy.

He directed security agencies to “promptly apprehend those responsible” and ensure they face the full weight of the law. 

Expressing deep concern over the incident, the governor urged communities to remain vigilant.

“Reporting any suspicious activities to security forces” was emphasised as a crucial step towards preventing future attacks.

He assured the public that the government would take “proactive measures” to curb the ongoing violence that continues to plague the state. 

Beyond promises of action, Governor Mutfwang extended his heartfelt condolences to the affected families.

He urged them to “find solace in God” as the government diligently works to end the cycle of violence that has claimed far too many lives in Plateau State. 

This latest attack calls for the urgent need for effective intervention and sustainable solutions to address the complex security challenges plaguing the region.

 By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Kano State Police Command has apprehended Bahago Afa, a suspected criminal ring leader, along with six associates, on charges of armed robbery. 

This comes after Bahago Afa, who had reportedly repented recently, was rearrested by the police. 

The State Commissioner of Police, Usaini Gumel, revealed the development during a Friday parade. 

Gumel noted the successful neutralization of criminal networks that had contributed to thuggery, armed robbery, and various criminal activities in the state. 

Addressing the press, Gumel stated, “Already, there are over 700 repentant criminals on our lists, and anybody among them that dares to go back will be declared an enemy of peace just like Bahago Afa and others.” 

He added, “Today, we have taken care of Daba ‘thuggery,’ but they are today carrying out robbery activities, and conducting an organized crime that is now nothing but robbery.” 

Gumel said the commitment of the police to maintaining peace, urging citizens to assist in the apprehension of the remaining 72 individuals declared as enemies of peace.

“Anywhere police or any other person sees them, they should arrest them and bring them before the police,” he declared.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the wife of President Bola Tinubu, shared a message of hope and positivity during her Christmas address on Saturday. 

Hosting an elaborate Christmas party for the children of Nana Berry Orphanage in Abuja, the first lady expressed her optimism for the upcoming year. 

“As we go into the year 2024, our message should be how to transform the lives of the young ones,” Senator Tinubu said. 

Advising parents, she encouraged them to avoid discussing poverty in front of their children, highlighting that Nigeria is not a poor nation. 

“The wealthy ones should also take care of the poor ones and make them wealthy; that is all it takes,” she added. 

Senator Tinubu addressed the issue of poverty, noting that it has been taken out of context and is negatively impacting the youth. 

“We have to give them hope and show them the positive life. We are entering a glorious year, and those who believe that it is going to be glorious will enjoy it,” she affirmed.

During the Christmas party, Senator Tinubu engaged with the children, sharing a Bible story and emphasising the importance of parents instilling good morals in their wards. 

“Parents are supposed to tell the children Christmas stories; that is what we all grow up with,” she remarked, urging a shift in the narrative of what Christmas represents in the State House.

By Uzair Adam Imam

In a spectacular event held at Tahir Guest Palace on Friday, PR Nigeria, in collaboration with Daily Nigeria and Arewa Agenda, recognized and awarded thirty exceptional youths under the age of thirty for their outstanding achievements in various fields.

The ceremony aimed to showcase the remarkable talents of young individuals from northern Nigeria who are actively contributing to the development of their states and the nation as a whole.

Dr. Musa Sufi, one of the organizers, highlighted the significance of the event, stating that it serves as a testament to the innovative minds thriving in northern Nigeria.

He emphasized the need to present these accomplishments to the world, inspiring and motivating other young people to strive for excellence in their endeavours.

Addressing a prevalent issue, Dr. Sufi pointed out the communication gap between the older and younger generations, emphasizing the lack of mentorship for the youth.

He urged both the government and non-governmental organizations to innovate and develop initiatives that align with exploring the immense potential and strength of young people.

Among the esteemed awardees was Aliyu Idris, a final year student at Bayero University. Expressing his joy, Idris acknowledged the challenges of being selected among over seven hundred nominees and considered his education award as a prestigious recognition.

He attributed his success to determination and unwavering commitment to achieving his goals.

Abdulhafiz Abdullahi Aliyu, another awardee from Jos, expressed his excitement about being recognized for his organization, Sunna Techlap, which he established within a year.

He shared his gratitude for the acknowledgement and the opportunity to receive the award, emphasizing the pride of being invited from Jos.

The event drew a distinguished audience, including notable academics such as Dr. Bala Muhammad, and Dr. Sule Yau Sule, Dr. Kabiru Sufi Said, and prominent figures from the Kannywood industry, including actresses like Mommy Gombe and producers.

The diverse attendance underscored the broad support for celebrating and encouraging the accomplishments of young individuals in the northern region.

As northern Nigeria takes a step to bridge the generational gap and provide recognition to its talented youth, the hope is that these initiatives will continue to inspire and foster a culture of excellence and innovation among the younger generation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

In a convention chaired by the Honourable Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, the board of the Nigeria Customs Service confirmed the appointment of two Assistant Comptrollers General (ACGs) and approved the promotion of 2209 senior officers. 

This is contained in a statement signed by the spokesperson for the service, Abdullahi Maiwadah. 

The Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB) convened its 58th regular meeting on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters. 

ACG Florence Nano Ogar-Modey and ACG Queen Ogubudu were confirmed as substantive members of the NCS Management Team during the meeting.

The comprehensive promotion list includes both General Duty (GD) and Support Staff (SS) personnel who demonstrated outstanding performance in the 2023 promotion exercise.

The breakdown of promoted officers covers various ranks, from Inspector of Customs to Customs Comptroller.

Notably, special promotions were approved for fourteen officers in recognition of their exceptional performance in various assigned responsibilities. 

Among the newly promoted comptrollers are TM Daniyan, F Fajana, N Isyaku, MV Umana, AC Nwobi, F Abdulqadir, HK Ejibunu, FM Ojiofor, IN Aliyu, MD Malah, EO Oshoba, JK Oladeji, E Luka, AP Daruaku, FM Ojeifor, IN Nwokorie, EJ Harrison, and others. 

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, extended heartfelt congratulations to the newly appointed and promoted officers.

According to Maiwadah, the comptroller urged them to redouble their efforts in fulfilling crucial roles such as revenue generation, trade facilitation, and the suppression of smuggling.

These efforts, he emphasised, are essential for enhancing the NCS’s pivotal role in bolstering Nigeria’s socio-economic well-being.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Management Quarters resonated with the joyous melodies of Christmas carols as officers and the management team came together for a heartwarming celebration.

Hosted by Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the event, themed “Dine and Grill with the CGC,” aimed to foster a sense of unity and festive spirit among the customs community. 

CGC Adeniyi, extending warm Christmas wishes, encouraged officers to embrace the true essence of the season—love and forgiveness. Beyond official duties, he emphasised the importance of coming together to relax and enjoy the company of colleagues, turning the NCS Management Quarters into a festive haven. 

The Christmas carol service was a lively affair, featuring musical performances, dance, and vibrant decorations.

The officers actively participated, reinforcing a spirit of togetherness and goodwill. CGC Adeniyi’s call to imbibe the Christmas spirit resonated, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and joy. 

The event provided a well-deserved break for officers, offering a moment to unwind and reflect on the year’s achievements.

CGC Adeniyi expressed gratitude for their hard work and dedication, highlighting the significance of maintaining a positive work environment.

In his closing remarks, CGC Adeniyi not only thanked the officers but also urged them to carry the festive spirit into the upcoming year.

By Abdurrahman Muhammad

The Central Bank of Nigeria’s financial policy and regulation director, Haruna Mustapha, announced in a circular on Friday.

The central bank has issued guidelines and regulations for banks on managing cryptocurrency in accordance with global standards to prevent misuse. They also urge banks to comply with these guidelines and regulations.

See the full statement below: 

FPR/DIR/PUB/CIR/002/003

CIRCULAR TO ALL BANKS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

GUIDELINES ON OPERATIONS OF BANK ACCOUNTS FOR VIRTUAL ASSETS SERVICE PROVIDERS (VASPs)

The CBN in February 2021 issued a circular restricting banks and other financial institutions from operating accounts for cryptocurrency service providers in view of the money laundering and terrorism financing (ML/TF) risks and vulnerabilities inherent in their operations as well as the absence of regulations and consumer protection measures.

However, current trends globally have shown that there is need to regulate the activities of virtual assets service providers (VASPs) which include cryptocurrencies and crypto assets. Following this development, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in 2018 also updated its Recommendation 15 to require VASPS to be regulated to prevent misuse of virtual assets for ML/TF/PF.

Furthermore, Section 30 of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 recognizes VASPs as part of the definition of a financial institution. In addition, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in May 2022 issued Rules on Issuance, Offering and Custody of Digital Assets and VASPS to provide a regulatory framework for their operations in Nigeria.

In view of the foregoing, the CBN hereby issues these Guidelines to provide guidance to financial institutions under its regulatory purview in respect of their banking relationship with VASPs in Nigeria.

The Guidelines supersedes the CBN’s circulars referenced FPR/DIR/GEN/CIR/06/010 of January 12, 2017 and BSD/DIR/PUB/LAB/014/001 of February 5, 2021 on the subject. However, banks and other financial institutions are still prohibited from holding, trading and/or transacting in virtual currencies on their own account.

Accordingly, all banks and other financial institutions are hereby required to immediately comply with the provisions of the Guidelines.

HARUNA B. MUSTAFA

DIRECTOR, FINANCIAL POLICY AND REGULATION DEPARTMENT