Nigeria

By Muhammad Sabiu

Dr. Muhsin Ibrahim, a former Bayero University, Kano (BUK) staff member, has expressed deep concern over the challenges students and alums face in obtaining academic transcripts from BUK.

In a recent commentary on Facebook, Dr Ibrahim highlighted the plight of many former students who have missed out on opportunities due to delays in processing transcripts. “This is sad and embarrassing, especially as the problem is completely avoidable in this day and age,” he wrote, noting that the issue is prevalent in many public universities across Nigeria.

Dr. Ibrahim shared a personal experience, revealing his inability to assist a former student in obtaining her transcript despite his connections within the university. He described the situation as unfortunate and urged those responsible for transcript processing to act with empathy and diligence.

He also called on the university’s management to address the problem decisively, suggesting that any staff found guilty of causing unnecessary delays should face appropriate disciplinary actions. “Think about what a delay means to these people. Don’t ruin their chances at a scholarship or a job. Be empathetic. Fear God,” he appealed.

Dr. Ibrahim’s remarks resonate with affected students and alumni, who have long sought reforms to streamline administrative processes. This underscores the need for transparency and efficiency in accessing critical academic documents.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu gas shown his appreciation to the Nigeria Governors’ Forum following their unanimous endorsement of the four Tax Reform Bills currently under consideration by the National Assembly.

President Tinubu lauds the governors for their bold leadership and commitment to fostering unity among leaders nationwide, transcending regional, ethnic, and political barriers to advance Nigeria’s development.

Thursday’s productive consultation between the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy is a commendable example of cooperation between the Federal and State governments.

He extends special commendations to the Chairman of the Governors’ Forum, Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, for successfully galvanising support among his peers for these transformative tax bills to rejuvenate the national economy and enhance Nigeria’s investment climate.

He also commends the Progressive Governors Forum, the Northern Governors Forum, and all other groups that made the bipartisan resolution of the controversy stirred by the tax bills possible.

President Tinubu shows that the primary aim of the Tax Reform Bills, which is pro-poor, is to promote national interests, improve the competitiveness of Nigeria’s economy, and attract both local and foreign investments.

He said updating the country’s outdated tax laws is essential to this endeavour.

The President notes that the dialogue between the NGF and the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reform shows the power of constructive conversation in resolving differences.

President Tinubu regards the governors as vital contributors to nation-building and affirms his commitment to partnering with them to promote economic growth, national harmony, peace, and stability.

He also encourages other stakeholders with ideas and suggestions for refining the Tax Bills to engage with the ongoing legislative process at the National Assembly.

President Tinubu also urges the National Assembly to expedite the legislative process for these crucial bills so that the country can swiftly reap the benefits of the reforms.

By Maryam Ahmad

The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, in collaboration with the Ekiti State Waste Management Authority (EKSWMA) enforcement team, has arrested a man seen in a viral video discharging liquid waste with an offensive odour into a stream in the Bashiri area of Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

A statement from the State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Chief Mrs Tosin Aluko- was made available to reporters in Ado-Ekiti. She said, “Following swift action by the Ministry’s enforcement team, the perpetrator was apprehended, and his vehicle  impounded.”

She said the suspect claimed during interrogation that he was discharging dirty water, not sewage, into the stream.

The Commissioner announced that to prevent any potential health hazards from the dumped waste, the samples from the affected site have been taken to analyze the chemical and microbiological material contained in material discharged in the stream. At the same time, the entire area will be thoroughly fumigated to safeguard the health and well-being of residents.

She said thorough investigations involving officials of her Ministry and the Ekiti State Waste Management Authority were ongoing to prevent future occurrences and maintain a cleaner, safer environment in Ekiti State.

The Commissioner emphasized that the state government has zero tolerance for illegal waste handling and disposal and stressed that the offender would soon be prosecuted. 

“The law will take its full course. Acts like this endanger public health and the environment. We must protect our communities,” she said.

Erelu Aluko-Ajisafe urged residents to remain vigilant and report any acts of environmental violation to the appropriate authorities. 

She encouraged the public to continue “blowing the whistle” on activities that threaten environmental safety.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has given its seal of approval to the Tax Reform Bills, recommending no increase in the Value Added Tax (VAT) rate.

This decision was reached after a thorough examination of the bills, with the forum proposing a revised VAT sharing formula to ensure resources are distributed fairly.

According to the communique issued by the forum today, the revised VAT sharing formula will allocate 50% of resources based on equality, 30% based on derivation, and 20% based on population.

The governors also agreed that there should be no reduction in Corporate Income Tax (CIT) at this time, to maintain economic stability.

The forum advocated for maintaining the current VAT rate to safeguard citizens’ welfare and promote economic growth.

Also, essential goods and agricultural produce will remain exempt from VAT to support agricultural productivity and citizens’ welfare.

The meeting also recommended removing the terminal clause for TETFUND, NASENI, and NITDA in the sharing of development levies in the bills.The forum expressed its support for the continuation of the legislative process at the National Assembly, which will ultimately lead to the passage of the Tax Reform Bills.

AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, noted the importance of these recommendations, stating that they will ensure economic stability and promote the welfare of citizens.

By Uzair Adam

The federal government has expressed disappointment over recent remarks by Emir Sanusi II, describing his statements as counterproductive to the nation’s efforts to address economic challenges.

In a strongly-worded statement, the presidency criticized the Emir for what it described as a failure to prioritize national interests over personal grievances.

The statement reiterated that Nigeria is at a critical juncture requiring bold and decisive reforms to overcome deeply rooted economic problems.

The administration stated that the reforms being implemented are difficult but essential for ensuring the country’s long-term stability and growth, aligning with positions the Emir had previously supported.

“It is noteworthy that these reforms, including the unification of exchange rates and the removal of the fuel subsidy, have started yielding measurable progress.

“Investor confidence has improved, foreign reserves are increasing, and resources freed from the subsidy removal are being redirected to critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare,” the statement read.

The government further quoted Emir Sanusi, who recently acknowledged that the hardships Nigerians are currently facing are a “necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management.”

However, the statement expressed dismay at what it perceived as a shift in the Emir’s stance due to personal and partisan considerations.

“His Highness, given his expertise in economics, has a unique responsibility to contribute constructively rather than undermine these reforms.

“Rebuilding Nigeria requires unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders,” the statement added.

The government noted that these reforms have also contributed to reducing the country’s debt service-to-revenue ratio, creating a more sustainable fiscal framework for future generations.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu,

The Harmattan season, marked by cold temperatures, dry air, and dusty winds, is a distinctive weather phenomenon in Nigeria. It brings relief from the relentless heat of the dry season but comes with challenges that affect health, agriculture, transportation, and the economy. This fascinating yet demanding season requires careful management to minimise its effects on individuals and communities.

Health Woes in Harmattan

Harmattan has a significant impact on public health. The dusty winds carry fine particles that irritate the respiratory system, causing a surge in asthma, pneumonia, and other respiratory ailments. Those with pre-existing conditions often experience aggravated symptoms, with children and the elderly being the most vulnerable.

Cold temperatures exacerbate the situation, aggravating conditions such as arthritis and causing widespread skin dryness, flaking, and cracking. Chapped lips and eye irritation are common, while the prevalence of colds, flu, and other viral infections increases as the body struggles to adjust to sudden temperature drops.

To address these health challenges, individuals are advised to:

Dress warmly, especially during the mornings and evenings.

Wear protective masks to minimise exposure to dust-laden air.

Moisturise regularly and stay hydrated to maintain skin health.

Health facilities should prepare adequately, stock essential medications, and run public education campaigns to help people stay safe.

Transportation in Crisis

Harmattan haze, thick with dust, reduces visibility and disrupts transportation. It increases the risk of road accidents and causes delays or cancellations of air travel. These disruptions have far-reaching economic implications, hindering logistics, delaying goods, and frustrating travellers and businesses.

Agriculture and Environmental Risks

For farmers, Harmattan is both a blessing and a curse. While the dry conditions benefit certain crops, they also heighten the risk of bushfires, which can devastate farmlands and forests and worsen food security concerns.

To mitigate these risks:

Farmers should adopt sustainable practices, such as cultivating cold-resistant crops and implementing irrigation systems.

Communities must engage in bushfire prevention by practising responsible land clearing and safely disposing of flammable materials.

Economic Pressures

The economic burden of Harmattan is heaviest on low-income households. The increased demand for warm clothing, blankets, and heating appliances often leads to price hikes. Due to the harsh weather, outdoor workers, such as farmers and street vendors, experience reduced productivity, which impacts their earnings.

To alleviate these challenges, governments and non-governmental organisations can:

Provide subsidised or free warm clothing and healthcare services.

Launch public awareness campaigns to educate people about coping strategies.

Navigating Harmattan’s Challenges

Harmattan is a paradoxical season of relief and struggle—a vivid reminder of nature’s duality. Its challenges across health, transportation, agriculture, and the economy demand resilience and adaptability. With proactive planning, community support, and individual vigilance, Nigerians can turn this season into an opportunity to strengthen preparedness for future seasonal changes.

Usman Muhammad Salihu is a fellow of PRNigeria. He sent this article via muhammadu5363@gmail.com.

By Anwar Usman

The Emir of Kano, Malam Muhammadu Sanusi II, has made it clear that he will not use his expertise to address Nigeria’s economic challenges simply because he is unwilling to assist the Tinubu administration.

As a certified economist and former CBN governor, Sanusi made this assertion while speaking at the 21st anniversary of Fawehinmiism with the 2025 Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture held today at the Lagos Airport Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos state.

He stated that “explaining the economic crisis would simply provide solutions to the lingering economic problems and pave the way for the proliferation of Nigeria’s economy.” 

While speaking, the Emir emphasised that despite being a good friend to the government, he would not offer any solutions that could help the administration achieve its goals. 

He criticised the Tinubu administration, stating they lacked credible and competent people who could explain the persistence of economic constraints on Nigerians.

He reiterated, “I’m not going to discuss any of the problems, let alone provide an insight to navigate this challenging period”.

Instead of offering solutions, Sanusi shifted the responsibility to the administration, saying, “It’s up to them to explain to Nigerians why their policies keep failing. He attributed the current economic woes to decades of unnecessary economic reforms.”

By Anwar Usman

The Nigerian Immigration Service, Sokoto State Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening border security as part of its efforts to tackle the security problems posed by the emergence of the Lakurawa sect.

On Monday in Sokoto, the state Comptroller of the NIS, Mr Yusuf Bage, announced this during a courtesy visit from the leadership of the state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.

Bage said the security problem posed by the Lakurawa sect is a new and evolving threat, especially in the state.

According to him, the Lakurawa sect members often enter the country through illegal routes.

”However, I want to assure the public that security agencies are ahead of them, and their activities will soon be curbed.”

He explained that one of the significant constitutional mandates of the NIS was to ensure effective border management, including oversight at airports and seaports.

To achieve this mandate, the NIS ensures proper identification of foreigners entering the country and closely monitors their movements and activities within communities.

He explains that the NIS had expanded its offices across the 23 local government areas to maintain visibility in all the state’s nooks and crannies.

He also highlighted the collaboration between the NIS, the Army, and other state security agencies to ensure the safety of citizens.

The comptroller also emphasized the importance of the media in supporting security efforts and pledged a mutual relationship between the NIS and journalists in the state.

The NUJ state Chairman, Mr Usman Binji, said the visit was to formally introduce the new leadership of the state council.

Binji reiterated the role of journalists in fostering collaboration with security agencies, stressing that the visit would reinvigorate the collaboration between the NIS and the NUJ to make Sokoto State safer.

He further stated that, “Our members are fully committed to supporting the security agencies in ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s territory.”

By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

Despite the turbulence of 2024, Nigeria’s intelligence and anti-graft agencies recorded significant achievements. The Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and anti-corruption bodies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) made notable strides in combating corruption, safeguarding national security, and upholding the rule of law.

However, Emergency Digest reports that pressing challenges persist within these institutions, threatening sustained progress and credibility. This report delves into landmark achievements, systemic lapses, and broader implications for national security, highlighting the contributions of the NSA and other agencies such as the ICPC, DSS, and NIA.

EFCC: Wins Amid Controversies

Under Olukoyede’s leadership, the EFCC made impressive progress in tackling financial crimes. Notable accomplishments include a groundbreaking operation that led to the arrest of 792 individuals involved in cryptocurrency and romance scams in Lagos and the recovery of N230 billion and $105 million within a year. A major victory was the forfeiture of a sprawling Abuja estate valued at billions, reflecting the agency’s commitment to asset recovery.

Nevertheless, high-profile cases, like the delayed arrest of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and allegations of dropped charges against crossdresser Bobrisky in exchange for bribes, raised concerns about the EFCC’s integrity. Critics have also highlighted the agency’s inaction on prosecuting high-profile figures such as Humanitarian Affairs Minister Betta Edu, despite substantial evidence of corruption.

ICPC: Quiet but Impactful

The ICPC maintained a low profile but achieved commendable results, recovering N52 billion and $966,900 in misappropriated funds in a year. The commission exposed corruption in government contracts, cracked down on job racketeering, and raised concerns about misused funds in constituency projects.

Despite these successes, the ICPC struggles with transparency challenges, understaffing, and limited resources. Addressing these gaps is essential to sustain its fight against systemic corruption.

DSS: Vigilance Amid Criticism

The DSS maintained its critical role, thwarting terrorism plots, dismantling organised crime networks, and protecting vital national assets. However, the agency was criticized for alleged overreach, unlawful detentions, and a lack of transparency.

In a notable clash with the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), the DSS faced backlash for questioning the group’s leaders after they criticized Nigeria’s human rights record. Similarly, unresolved issues surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s case have cast a shadow over the DSS’s otherwise commendable efforts.

NIA: Expanding Reach, Addressing Gaps

The NIA expanded its global intelligence capabilities, collaborating on transnational crime and cyber threats. However, internal mismanagement and opacity remain significant concerns. With Mohammed Mohammed’s appointment as Director-General, there is hope for renewed efficiency and accountability.

ONSA: Orchestrating National Security

Under Malam Nuhu Ribadu’s leadership, the NSA made strides in combating terrorism and reuniting kidnapping victims with their families. However, controversial policies like the Cyber Security Levy faced opposition from stakeholders, highlighting the need for transparent communication.

To enhance its impact, the NSA must foster better relationships with the media and citizens, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination of information without compromising sensitive intelligence.

Recommendations for Progress

1. Strengthen Institutional Frameworks: Leverage technology and intelligence to prevent crime and enhance efficiency.

2. Enhance Public-Agency Relations: Foster trust through targeted awareness campaigns and transparent communication strategies.

3. Improve Leadership Accountability: Ensure transparent appointments and performance evaluations for agency heads.

4. Foster International Cooperation: Strengthen ties with global intelligence and financial institutions.

5. Address Root Causes: Combat unemployment and poverty to reduce criminal recruitment.

The collective efforts of Nigeria’s intelligence and anti-graft agencies in 2024 have established a solid foundation for a corruption-free society. From the EFCC’s groundbreaking operations to the ICPC’s meticulous investigations, these achievements underscore the potential for lasting change.

Nevertheless, tackling ongoing challenges, including transparency, resource limitations, and inter-agency coordination is essential. A collaborative approach—reinforcing institutions, enhancing public trust, and promoting integrity—will secure a more stable and prosperous Nigeria.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a Public Affairs Analyst, Advocate for National Development and Fellow of PRNigeria. He can be reached at exponentumera@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar AlgasgainiThe chief of defencce staff general, Christopher Musa, stated that currently, the bandits, who no longer have any town under their control, have devised a new strategy for recruiting fighters.

He explained that in the past, they would raid villages to force men, whether willing or not, to take up arms and join them, threatening to kill them if they refused.

However, during an interview on Arise Television, he said they no longer have that option.

He further explained that the new tactic the bandits are using involves getting women pregnant repeatedly, using the children born as fighters.

According to him, once a woman gets pregnant and gives birth, within four months, the bandits would return to the woman to impregnate her again.

Some bandits, he added, who surrendered and handed over over 120,000 weapons, mostly small arms, had recruited children as fighters.