Nigeria

By Anwar Usman

Not less than 45,689 applicants are conducting the Computer-Based Aptitude Test on Saturday (today) as part of the recruitment process to secure employment at Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

The aptitude test, currently taking place at the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society Centenary Resource Centre in Maitama, Abuja, and various other testing centres across Nigeria, marks the second stage of the rigorous recruitment process that began earlier this year.

Previously, on July 25, 2024, the company announced openings for new entrants.

In a statement, Olufemi Soneye, the NNPC spokesperson, said the recruitment would be for various positions across various departments within the energy company and interested applicants to visit the NNPC careers page for application instructions.

However, in a new post on its official Facebook handle on Saturday to update the public on the process, the national oil firm emphasized that only the most qualified candidates will be selected for employment at the end of the exercise.

The post read, “As the Computer-Based Aptitude Test for NNPC Ltd.’s recruitment begins today at various centres across the country, 45,689 applicants compete in a transparent and inclusive recruitment process.”

The NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, who visited the centres, promises a smooth, transparent, fair, and credible process.

“As an equal opportunity employer, NNPC Ltd. has made special provisions to ensure that applicants with disabilities can take the test without any hindrance.

“Kyari reiterated that only the most qualified candidates among the 45,689 applicants will be selected for employment”.

The daily reality gathered that this may be the major recruitment exercise since the NNPC fully transformed into a limited company in 2022.

By Salim Yunusa

The formal inscription of the annual Kano Durbar by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a welcome development to not just Kano but Nigeria as a whole. The nomination, adopted on the 6th of December, 2024, in Paraguay, at the 19th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, makes it the 8th element to be inscribed from Nigeria. UNESCO is a specialised agency of the United Nations that promotes peace and security through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication.

According to many sources, the Kano durbar is the world’s largest procession of colourful horses. It has evolved with the history, religion, culture, and tradition of the Kano people over time. It is usually done to mark the Islamic holidays of Eid-el-Fitr and Eid-el-Adha, among other special celebrations. While other similar durbars are carried across almost all Northern Nigerian cities such as Zaria, Katsina, Bauchi, Gombe, Hadejia, Maiduguri and Sokoto, the Kano durbar stands out due to the sheer number of participants, tourists, spectators and days of celebrations.

This global recognition is a significant milestone, celebrating one of Nigeria’s most vibrant cultural festivals. Renowned for its majestic horse parades, traditional regalia, and music, the Kano Durbar reflects Northern Nigeria’s cultural pride and rich heritage. While the jubilations over this achievement are justified, it is essential to explore the opportunities and responsibilities that come with the UNESCO inscription.

 Beyond the celebrations, stakeholders must now prioritise preservation, promotion, and leveraging this global acknowledgement to foster tourism, break down stereotypes, and drive cultural and economic development in Kano and Northern Nigeria as a whole.

Kano—and Northern Nigeria as a whole—is a goldmine of culture and tradition preserved for ages, although these are currently under threat of extinction. The Dye Pits of Kofar Mata, founded in 1498 and spanning five centuries, are at risk of becoming extinct due to disrepair and unsustainable practices in recent times. The walled city of Kano is gradually disappearing to give way to commercial structures along the busy roads of Kano. There is a growing threat of climate change eroding sites like Dala Hills, Gidan Makama and others due to neglect. Sustainable protection and preservation of sites like this must be done for future generations.

This particular UNESCO inscription underscores the need to preserve the Kano Durbar for future generations through strategic documentation and archiving of the festival’s history, rites, and performances. High-quality visual content and written materials can help maintain its essence while creating accessible records for global audiences. This will effectively engage the youth, which is vital to ensure the tradition remains dynamic.

In addition, effective and efficient collaboration between the Kano Emirate council, non-governmental organisations (such as MACOBA, UNESCO, Global Shapers, etc.) and government agencies (NICO, Ministry of Arts and Culture, Tourism Development, etc.) is necessary to provide funding, technical support, and regulations that safeguard the festival’s cultural integrity.

In a state like Kano, boasting the highest population in the country and being the most populous in Northern Nigeria, the Kano Durbar has the potential to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s cultural tourism, becoming a blueprint for other durbars across the region. To achieve this, a well-coordinated tourism strategy is essential. This could include partnering with airlines, hotels, and tour operators to create attractive travel packages for domestic and international tourists. Marketing campaigns highlighting the Durbar as a unique travel experience should be launched across social media platforms and international media outlets. Collaborations with influencers and travel bloggers can also amplify its appeal.

Furthermore, enhancing the visitor experience is key. Infrastructure around festival venues should be improved, with better roads, accommodations, and festival-specific amenities. Creating dedicated viewing platforms and cultural villages can also enrich the experience for attendees, making the Durbar more accessible and enjoyable.

Beyond cultural pride, the inscription opens doors for economic development. Investments in Durbar-themed merchandise, souvenirs, and artisanal crafts can generate revenue for local communities. E-commerce platforms can facilitate the sale of these items to a global audience.

Additionally, recognising the festival as an international heritage can attract global partnerships and funding for sustainable development initiatives in the region. Furthermore, technology offers endless possibilities to promote the Kano Durbar. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences can bring the Durbar to audiences unable to attend physically. Comprehensive online platforms can offer ticket sales, merchandise, and interactive content, ensuring year-round engagement with the festival. These digital initiatives can transform the Durbar from a localised event into a global cultural phenomenon.

Finally, the festival could serve as a hub for cultural exchange, inviting participants from other regions and countries to share their traditions and learn about the Durbar, fostering mutual respect and understanding. It could be so much more, with proper organisation and intention by the stakeholders involved.

The UNESCO inscription of the Kano Durbar is a momentous achievement that places the festival on the global stage. However, this recognition comes with responsibilities. By preserving its legacy, harnessing its tourism potential, and leveraging technology and cultural exchange, stakeholders can transform the Durbar into a beacon of Nigeria’s cultural excellence. Beyond the jubilations lies an opportunity to turn this acknowledgement into a catalyst for cultural pride, unity, and economic development. The time to act is now.

Salim Yunusa writes from Abuja, Nigeria and can be reached at syunusa@gmail.com.

 By Suleiman Usman Yusuf 

As we mark one month since the sham local government elections conducted in Kaduna State, it is imperative to broaden our discourse beyond the immediate events and delve into the systemic issues that have led to electoral malpractices, voter apathy, and the overall degradation of Nigeria’s electoral system. 

Having been a founder and the pioneer National Chairman of the Youth Party (YP) as a registered political party in Nigeria, I have gained invaluable insights into the root causes of these electoral challenges. While these issues are multifaceted, I will focus on several key aspects that are critical to understanding and addressing the problem, as follows: 

1. NEGLECT OF INTERNAL PARTY ELECTIONS: One significant factor contributing to the electoral malaise is the Nigerian populace’s tendency to prioritise general elections over internal party elections. The credibility, skills, and knowledge of party officials heavily influence the quality of candidates emerging from primary elections. When citizens neglect the election of these officials, they unintentionally allow unpatriotic and incompetent individuals to manage party affairs at all levels – wards, local governments, states, and nationally. 

For instance, in many local government elections, candidates are often selected based on their connections or financial support rather than their qualifications or commitment to public service. This negligence ensures that capable and well-meaning Nigerians remain sidelined, relying on flawed party structures to secure candidacy. 

 2. LACK OF INTERNAL DEMOCRACY: The absence of internal democracy within political parties is another root cause of electoral failure. Ideally, political parties should transcend individual candidates, ensuring their structures promote democratic values and accountability. Unfortunately, many candidates, especially those with amassed wealth or political power, often overshadow their parties, undermining their foundational principles. Party officials, rather than being recruited based on merit, usually come from the ranks of politicians, leading to a cycle of dependency and diminished accountability. The failure to enforce disciplinary measures further erodes the integrity of party operations, allowing influential individuals to manipulate party dynamics for personal gain. 

Take, for example, the recent primaries of major political parties in Nigeria. Decisions are frequently made by a small group of party elites, often sidelining grassroots members and leading to the emergence of candidates who do not reflect the electorate’s will. Parties lack the frameworks to generate independent funding and operate effectively, allowing influential individuals to manipulate party dynamics for personal gain. 

 3. BRAIN DRAIN FROM POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT: Our nation’s most talented individuals frequently gravitate toward secure positions in the public or private sectors, leaving political engagement to those who may not have the nation’s best interests at heart. For example, many young professionals, including engineers, doctors, and entrepreneurs, seek opportunities abroad or in stable private sectors rather than entering politics, where they perceive a lack of integrity and opportunity for meaningful change. This trend undermines the potential for transformative leadership, as the voices that could drive innovation and reform in governance are absent from the political arena. The resulting leadership vacuum allows for the perpetuation of mediocrity and stagnation in our political landscape. 

 4. INEFFECTIVE ROLE OF OPPOSITION PARTIES: Another critical issue contributing to electoral malaise in Nigeria is the failure of opposition parties to effectively engage with the government in power. In a healthy democracy, opposition parties are expected to check on the ruling party, advocating for the populace’s interests and holding the government accountable for its actions. Their role is not merely to oppose for opposition’s sake but to advance the causes of the people, ensuring that governance is responsive and transparent. For instance, during significant policy debates, such as those regarding the national budget or security measures, opposition parties often resort to sensational accusations rather than providing substantive alternatives or critiques. 

 Unfortunately, many opposition parties in Nigeria have engaged in trivial disputes rather than focusing on substantial, issue-based discussions. They often lack coherent alternative policies or robust arguments that challenge the government’s decisions. This absence of constructive criticism diminishes the quality of political discourse and leaves citizens without viable options or clear pathways for reform. By failing to present well-researched alternatives to government policies, opposition parties contribute to a stagnant political environment where the ruling party faces little pressure to improve or innovate in its governance. 

 Additionally, the lack of strong opposition undermines public confidence in the democratic process, as citizens may feel their concerns are not adequately represented or addressed. Opposition parties need to rise to their responsibilities and engage in serious debates about policies and procedures that affect Nigerians’ lives. By doing so, they can promote a more dynamic political landscape that encourages accountability and responsiveness from the government. 

 5. LACK OF INVESTMENT IN KNOWLEDGE AND RESEARCH: Most political parties in Nigeria do not prioritise investing in knowledge and research, which are crucial for informed decision-making and policy development. The absence of dedicated policy and research units within parties means that they often operate in a vacuum, disconnected from society’s pressing issues. This gap results in poorly formulated policies that fail to address the needs of citizens or adapt to changing circumstances. For example, without adequate research, parties may propose initiatives that do not resonate with the challenges faced by their constituents, leading to ineffective governance and further disenchantment with the political process. 

 Based on the foregoing, I hereby advance the following recommendations for reform: 

 1. PROMOTION OF INTERNAL DEMOCRACY: Political parties must adopt transparent processes for electing officials and candidates. Implementing democratic practices within party structures will empower grassroots participation and ensure that the best candidates emerge, promoting a culture of accountability and responsibility. 

 2. ENCOURAGING YOUTH PARTICIPATION: Engaging the youth in the political process is essential for the future of Nigeria. Programs that educate young people about the importance of political involvement and the electoral process can cultivate a new generation of leaders committed to change. Initiatives such as mentorship programs and civic education can inspire active participation among young Nigerians. 

 3. ESTABLISHING INDEPENDENT MECHANISMS: Political parties should explore diverse funding sources beyond wealthy individuals to enhance their autonomy and operational capacity. These may include membership dues, grants, and partnerships with civil society organisations. By diversifying funding streams, parties can operate more independently and reduce the influence of money in politics. 

 4. STRENGTHENING VOTER EDUCATION: Comprehensive voter education campaigns are vital to combat apathy and encourage active participation in all electoral processes, including internal party elections. Educating citizens about their rights and the importance of their votes can empower them to demand accountability from their elected officials. 

 5. ENHANCING THE ROLE OF OPPOSITION PARTIES: Opposition parties must fulfil their critical role in engaging with the government and providing constructive criticism. They should focus on presenting well-researched alternative policies and robust arguments that address pressing issues affecting the populace. By promoting a culture of accountability and transparency, opposition parties can help ensure that governance remains responsive to citizens’ needs. These parties must rise above trivial disputes and engage in meaningful dialogue that reflects the interests of the people they represent. 

In conclusion, the recent elections in Kaduna State serve as a vivid reminder of the vulnerabilities within Nigeria’s electoral system. To safeguard democracy and promote effective governance, we must confront these root causes head-on, fostering an environment where transparency, accountability, and active participation thrive. 

It is time for Nigerians to reclaim their political landscape, ensuring that those who seek to represent them do so with integrity and a genuine commitment to the public good. By addressing these systemic issues, we can pave the way for a more robust democratic process that genuinely reflects the will and aspirations of the Nigerian people. 

God Bless Nigeria! 

Suleiman writes from Kaduna State, Nigeria, and can be reached via suleimanusmanbac@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam 

Armed police officers and operatives of the State Security Service (SSS) have cordoned off the Kano Emir’s Palace at Kofar Kudu, preventing entry and exit from the premises.  

The Daily Reality gathered that this development comes ahead of an anticipated escort by Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, who is expected to accompany the newly-appointed Wamban Kano, Munir Sanusi, to his district posting in Bichi.  

Several reports have indicated that the Bichi Emir’s Palace is also under heavy security presence, with armed operatives stationed around the area.  

Details of the situation remain sketchy at the moment, but more updates are expected as events unfold.

By Abubakar Hassan Muhammad BUK 

Kano State politics has been a subject of interest in Nigeria, especially since the Supreme Court judgment restored Abba Kabir Yusuf as the governor of Kano State. Yusuf, a member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), had his election initially nullified by lower courts, but the Supreme Court unanimously upheld his victory in the March 2023 election.

The State has a rich history of leadership, dating back to the Kingdom of Kano, which existed from 1000 AD to 1349. The state’s capital and largest city, Kano, is Nigeria’s second most populous city after Lagos. The incumbent governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, was sworn in on 29 May 2023.

Kano State faces several challenges, including attacks by Islamist terrorist groups, inter-religious violence, and extreme poverty. The state operates under Sharia law within the legal framework of the Nigerian constitution. The Supreme Court’s decision to restore Yusuf as governor has received mixed reactions from Nigerians, with some praising the judgement and others expressing concerns.

The State has a diverse economy with a strong focus on industry, agriculture, and Islamic banking. The state is home to several large markets, including Kurmi Market and Kantin Kwari Market, which specialise in textiles and grains. Agriculture is also a significant sector, with crops such as millet, cowpeas, and sorghum being cultivated for local consumption.

Kano State politics are complex and multifaceted, reflecting the state’s rich history and cultural diversity. Under Governor Yusuf’s leadership, the state faces significant challenges and opportunities for growth and development. But he has been trying his best to overcome these challenges.

Abubakar Hassan Muhammad wrote via abubakarsadik2023@gmail.com.

By Maimuna Katuka Aliyu

In recent times, there has been a disturbing rise in violent crimes perpetrated by loved ones, friends, or neighbours, leaving families and communities devastated. These acts of violence often reveal psychopathic or sociopathic behaviour, underscoring the importance of understanding how to protect oneself from such individuals.

Understanding Sociopathy and Psychopathy

Antisocial personality disorder, commonly known as sociopathy, is a mental health condition where a person consistently disregards right and wrong and shows a lack of empathy toward others. People with this disorder are manipulative, deceitful, and indifferent to the harm they cause. They often engage in impulsive or violent behaviour, violate laws, and struggle with relationships and responsibilities.

Psychopaths are more calculated and egocentric. They lack conscience and empathy, and while they can follow social norms when they benefit them, they typically harbour deep-rooted criminal tendencies. Sociopaths, in contrast, are more volatile and prone to sudden outbursts of anger. While psychopaths can maintain a façade of normalcy, sociopaths struggle to control their emotions and often lead chaotic lives.

Challenges in Societal Protection

In Nigeria, where insecurity has become a significant issue, many citizens feel unsafe. The government’s inability to consistently enforce laws and protect its people has only heightened the risks. For instance, despite the Firearms Act prohibiting the possession of firearms without a license, many criminals are rarely held accountable. Terrorists and other violent offenders often walk free shortly after being arrested, eroding public trust in law enforcement.

One heartbreaking case is that of Christiana Idowu, a Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta student who was abducted and later killed despite her family paying the ransom. Her kidnapper was eventually apprehended after police traced the bank details used for the ransom payment. This tragic incident illustrates the chilling reality of unchecked violence in Nigerian society.

Elsewhere, in Atlanta, 14-year-old Colt Gray shot and killed two students and two teachers at his school, a crime linked to his experience with bullying and parental separation. Such incidents are stark reminders of how mental trauma if left untreated, can lead to catastrophic outcomes.

Signs of Sociopathic and Psychopathic Behavior

It is crucial to recognise early signs of mental health issues that could lead to sociopathy or psychopathy. Common symptoms include:

– Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness

– Withdrawal from social activities

– Extreme mood swings

– Difficulty concentrating or maintaining focus

– Lack of empathy or remorse

Sociopaths, specifically, tend to:

– Display impulsive, hot-headed behaviour

– Have violent outbursts

– Fail to maintain stable jobs or relationships

– Rationalize their harmful actions despite knowing they are wrong

Psychopaths, on the other hand, often:

– Exhibit cold-hearted, manipulative behaviour

– Maintain a “normal” life to cover up their criminal actions

– Lack of genuine emotional attachments, even in close relationships

Impact of Childhood Trauma

Childhood trauma, such as abuse, neglect, or bullying, significantly increases the risk of developing violent or antisocial behaviour. These experiences can disrupt emotional development, impair attachment to others, and lead to aggressive tendencies. If left unaddressed, childhood trauma can manifest in mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia, with potential long-term consequences.

How to Protect Yourself

Given the prevalence of sociopathic and psychopathic behaviour, it is essential to take precautions to safeguard yourself. Below are a few practical steps to consider:

1. Be Aware of Red Flags: Pay attention to signs of manipulation, dishonesty, or indifference to the feelings of others. Sociopaths and psychopaths often use charm to disguise their true intentions.

2. Set Clear Boundaries: Protect yourself by establishing firm personal boundaries. Do not allow people to guilt or manipulate you into actions or decisions you are uncomfortable with.

3. Keep Your Loved Ones Informed: Always share your location and movements with someone you trust. This simple step can go a long way in ensuring your safety and preventing unnecessary panic during emergencies.

4. Trust Your Instincts: If you feel offended by someone’s behaviour or a situation that makes you uncomfortable, trust your gut feelings and distance yourself from the individual or scenario.

5. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the tactics sociopaths and psychopaths use to exploit and manipulate others. The more you know, the better equipped you are to recognise and avoid their toxic influence.

6. Build a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with trusted friends and family members who can offer guidance and emotional support. A strong support system can provide a buffer against harmful individuals.

Conclusion

In a world where mental health challenges are becoming more apparent, understanding the traits of sociopaths and psychopaths is critical to self-preservation. By staying vigilant, setting clear boundaries, and cultivating supportive relationships, you can protect yourself from their harmful behaviour and ensure a safer, more fulfilling life.

Maimuna Katuka Aliyu wrote via munat815@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Sulaiman

The Parents Teachers Association of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso Bilingual College, Niamey, Niger Republic, has appealed to His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, to honour the promise made by the former Governor of Kano, Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to return their children to their school in Niger Republic. 

The students have not been in school for over a year now, while their peers in the Niger Republic have already resumed classes in the new session five weeks ago.

Dr. Ibrahim Habu, Chairman of the PTA, commends Governor Yusuf for prioritising education with substantial budget allocations. However, he urges him to address the unresolved issues of Bilingual College students in Kano from the last academic session. He calls for immediate action to ensure no child from the college is left idle at home.

The PTA Chairman urges all stakeholders to work collaboratively to fulfil Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s vision of establishing a Bilingual college, emphasising the importance of equipping students with bilingual skills in French and English to enhance self-reliance and global competitiveness among Kano’s next generation of citizens.

The Chairman also calls on the people of Kano State to continue supporting Governor Yusuf’s educational initiatives. These initiatives will ensure sustainable development in the education sector and contribute to the overall development of Kano State.

By Uzair Adam 

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has uncovered how three police officers attached to Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja, illegally diverted N43,160,000 from a cargo worker at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in August 2023.  

According to a statement released on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Ogunjobi, the officers—Inspector Ekende Edwin, Inspector Esther Okafor, and Sergeant Talabi Kayode—acted on the directives of DSP Peter Ejike. 

They unlawfully arrested Andrew Ejah, an employee of FATFAD Cargo Nigeria Limited, who was transporting N74,950,000 on behalf of clients.  

The officers reportedly detained Ejah at Zone 7 Headquarters and falsely declared that only N31,790,000 was recovered. They allegedly demanded a portion of the funds in exchange for suppressing the case.  

Upon receiving a petition from the owners of the missing funds, the Force Headquarters assigned the IGP Monitoring Unit to investigate. 

The unit recovered N31,790,000 from the officers, who maintained that it was the total sum confiscated during Ejah’s arrest.  

Further investigations revealed that the officers had tampered with evidence. Photographs taken at the time of arrest, showing the full amount, were allegedly lost after the phone used was damaged. 

However, forensic analysis exposed their conspiracy to divert N43,160,000 and move it out of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for safekeeping.  

The statement also addressed circulating reports accusing Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun of shielding a cartel involved in smuggling new banknotes from the Central Bank of Nigeria. 

The NPF dismissed the claims as false and part of a smear campaign to divert attention from the officers’ misconduct.  

“The implicated officers have been suspended and face prosecution for serious misconduct, tampering with exhibits, abuse of office, and corrupt practices,” Ogunjobi added.  

The NPF urged the public and media to disregard false narratives aimed at tarnishing the Inspector-General’s image and undermining ongoing police reforms.

By Talent Akpan 

Nigeria’s economy has been heavily reliant on oil exports for decades, accounting for approximately 70% of government revenue and 90% of foreign exchange earnings. This dependence has far-reaching consequences, affecting various aspects of the country’s economic, environmental, and social landscape.

The country’s over-reliance on oil has hindered the development of other sectors, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services. This lack of diversification makes Nigeria vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices, leading to economic instability and uncertainty. Moreover, oil wealth has fuelled corruption, with estimates suggesting billions of dollars lost to mismanagement and embezzlement.

Furthermore, oil exploration and production have devastated Nigeria’s environment, particularly in the Niger Delta region. The degradation of natural habitats and resources severely affects local communities, affecting their livelihoods and well-being.

Despite these challenges, opportunities exist for diversification. Nigeria has vast agricultural potential, with opportunities for growth in crops like cassava, rice, and maize. Developing manufacturing sectors, such as textiles and electronics, can create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Growing the services sector, including finance, tourism, and IT, can reduce reliance on oil. Investing in renewable energy sources, like solar and wind power, can also reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Policy reforms are necessary to mitigate the risks associated with oil dependence. Diversification strategies, investments in human capital, transparency and accountability, and economic reforms can promote sustainable economic growth and development.

Some potential strategies for diversification include:

– Developing infrastructure to support non-oil sectors

– Providing incentives for private sector investment

– Enhancing education and training programs

– Encouraging foreign investment

– Promoting entrepreneurship and innovation

However, implementation challenges exist. Institutional weaknesses require strengthening, powerful interests may resist reforms, and Nigeria’s infrastructure requires significant investment to support non-oil sectors.

Addressing these challenges will require cooperation from various stakeholders, including government officials, private sector leaders, and civil society organisations. Nigeria can reduce its reliance on oil and build a more sustainable, diversified economy by working together.

Nigeria’s oil dependence poses significant economic, environmental, and social challenges. Diversification and policy reforms can mitigate these risks and promote sustainable economic growth and development.

Talent Bassey wrote via basseytalent@yahoo.com.

By Uzair Adam

President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Federal Ministry of Justice and the National Assembly to address concerns surrounding the proposed Tax Reform Bills.

The bills, recently transmitted to the National Assembly, have faced widespread criticism, particularly from northern governors who argue that the reforms could disproportionately affect their region and worsen the economic situation for Nigerians.

In response, Tinubu directed the Justice Ministry to collaborate with the National Assembly to resolve the contentious issues before the bills are passed into law.

This directive was conveyed in a statement by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who clarified that the government welcomes constructive feedback.

“It is pertinent to state that the government has nothing sinister to warrant the suggestion that the process is being rushed,” Idris said.

“The Federal Government welcomes meaningful inputs to address any grey areas in the bill.”

The minister reiterated the benefits of civil discourse and urged Nigerians to refrain from injecting ethnic or regional sentiments into the debate.

He dismissed claims that the bills are designed to impoverish northern states as “fake news” and “misinformation.”

According to Idris, the fiscal reforms aim to benefit all Nigerians by enhancing critical infrastructure such as healthcare, education, transportation, and digital technology.

He assured that the reforms would not weaken any federal agencies or marginalise any state or region.

“When passed, these bills are expected to bring relief to millions of hardworking Nigerians and empower the 774 local governments for sustainable growth and development,” the statement added.

The minister concluded that Tinubu’s commitment to transparency and accountability is a sign of good outcomes in the ongoing public debates as a healthy aspect of democracy.