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Ganduje Attends INEC Stakeholders Meeting Amid PDP, LP Boycott

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) were conspicuously absent as the leadership of political parties in Nigeria met with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for a quarterly consultative meeting held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja. Present at the meeting were chairmen and secretaries of several registered political parties, including Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The meeting was presided over by INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu. The absence of PDP officials is believed to be linked to the internal crisis that has fractured the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). At the center of the turmoil is the ongoing dispute over the office of the National Secretary. Until recently, the position has been contested by three individuals. Senator Samuel Anyanwu was rejected by the party’s South East caucus in favor of Mr. Sunday Ude-Okoye, prompting the appointment of Deputy National Secretary, Arc. Setonji Koshedo, in an acting capacity. Related: Tinubu, Governors Join Ganduje to Receive Governor Eno into APC However, in a dramatic turn on Wednesday, Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Ilya Damagum, announced at a press conference that Anyanwu remains the party’s scribe. The announcement was quickly countered by other NWC members, who insisted that Anyanwu is no longer in office. The Labour Party is also entangled in a leadership crisis following the suspension of Julius Abure and the recognition of Senator Nenadi Usman as Acting National Chairman by a faction of the party. During the meeting, Prof. Yakubu announced that a new round of bye-elections will be conducted on Saturday, August 16, 2025, across 16 constituencies in 12 states. He also revealed that INEC will resume the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, beginning in Anambra State on July 8, 2025, with a nationwide rollout expected later in August. The bye-elections are being organized to fill vacancies in two Senatorial Districts, Anambra South and Edo Central, five Federal Constituencies, and nine State House of Assembly seats. The vacancies arose due to deaths, resignations, and court rulings. A total of 3,553,659 registered voters across 32 Local Government Areas, 356 Wards, and 6,987 Polling Units are expected to participate. INEC will deploy 30,451 officials to manage the elections. Read Also: Photos: President Tinubu Signs Landmark Tax Reform Bills into Law However, Yakubu clarified that elections will not take place in Khana II constituency in Rivers State due to prevailing security concerns, and in Talata Mafara South in Zamfara State due to pending litigation. INEC will also conduct two pending court-ordered rerun elections in Enugu South I (Enugu State) and Ghari/Tsanyawa (Kano State), which were previously disrupted by violence. These will be held concurrently with the bye-elections on August 16. According to the INEC chairman, political parties are expected to hold their primaries between July 17 and 21. The nomination portal will open on July 22 at 9:00 a.m. and close on July 26 at 6:00 p.m. Campaigns are scheduled to begin on August 2 and end at midnight on August 14.  

National, News

NNPC Alleges Sabotage Plot to Derail Reform Agenda

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has raised the alarm over what it described as a “coordinated sabotage campaign” orchestrated by a network of internal and external actors aimed at undermining its leadership and reform efforts. In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its management, the national oil company alleged that a syndicate comprising both known and faceless individuals—within and outside the organisation—is actively spreading “lies and misinformation” to derail NNPC’s transformation into a transparent and performance-driven entity. “These are calculated efforts by those who feel threatened by reform, transparency, accountability, and change,” the statement noted, warning that defamatory reports targeting senior executives may intensify in the coming weeks. Read Also: Photos: President Tinubu Signs Landmark Tax Reform Bills into Law NNPC accused the alleged saboteurs of “planting scandalous and fabricated reports” designed to distract the company’s executive team, mislead the public, and weaken staff morale. Although the company did not name specific individuals or organisations, it described the campaign as a direct assault on President Bola Tinubu’s mandate to overhaul the state-owned enterprise. Since its transition into a limited liability company under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) in 2021—following the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act—NNPC has undergone significant restructuring. This transformation accelerated in 2023 and 2024, with a renewed focus on transparency, profitability, and eliminating legacy debts and opaque trading practices. Industry observers note that the ongoing reforms have disrupted long-standing interests within the crude-for-fuel swap arrangements, pipeline surveillance contracts, and the downstream product marketing chain—areas historically linked to corruption and inefficiency. Despite anticipating what it described as an “emerging smear campaign,” NNPC said it remains undeterred. The company called on staff, stakeholders, and all patriotic Nigerians to disregard the “noise” and stay focused on supporting the transformation of Nigeria’s foremost energy institution. The statement did not indicate whether NNPC intends to pursue legal action against those it accuses of sabotage. As of press time, efforts to reach company officials for further comment were unsuccessful. In response to the situation, NNPC is expected to strengthen internal security protocols and improve communication channels to protect staff from disinformation. Civil society organisations are also likely to increase scrutiny over how the company substantiates or fails to substantiate its claims. At the legislative level, the Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream) has recently shown interest in deeper oversight of NNPC’s commercial operations, potentially intensifying national focus on the sabotage allegations. For now, the company remains resolute. “No amount of sabotage will stop it,” the statement affirmed.

Kano, News

Kano State Government Clarifies Position on Donations to GSM Market Fire Victims

In light of recent speculations and rumours circulating on some media platforms regarding public donations to victims of the recent fire disaster at the Farm Centre GSM Market, the Kano State Government wishes to provide the following clarification: At no point did the state government state or imply that individuals or organisations are not permitted to donate to the affected traders. On the contrary, the government deeply appreciates the spirit of solidarity, empathy, and generosity shown by well-meaning Nigerians especially philanthropists and corporate organisations since the unfortunate incident occurred. To ensure proper coordination, transparency, and equitable distribution of support to genuine victims, the government constituted a high-powered committee and opened a dedicated bank account to receive donations. This effort is not meant to discourage public contributions but to safeguard against duplication, mismanagement, or misdirection of relief materials and financial aid meant for those affected. Read Also: Kano Government Congratulates New NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel Leadership It is important to stress that this coordination mechanism is aimed at ensuring that every kobo and item of support reaches the actual victims, traders whose shops, goods, and livelihoods were lost in the inferno. In a strong demonstration of commitment, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has already announced a direct government intervention worth over N2 billion for the reconstruction, expansion, and modernization of the Farm Centre GSM Market. The initiative includes rebuilding damaged plazas and shops, expanding the market through acquisition of additional space, establishing a fully equipped fire station within the market, and installing solar-powered streetlights to enhance security and night-time business activity. Additionally, the government will establish a dedicated market management structure to promote transparency, orderliness, and long-term sustainability. The Kano State Government reaffirms its unwavering support to the victims of the GSM Market fire and welcomes all well-intentioned contributions. It, however, urges that donations be channelled through appropriate and designated platforms to avoid confusion, politicisation, or exploitation of the situation. The government expresses its deep gratitude to the public for their understanding, cooperation, and continued support. Signed: Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya Honourable Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs

Kano, News

AIG Zone I Receives Gauta Club on Courtesy Visit, Warns Against Unguarded Utterances

The Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone One Headquarters, Kano, AIG Ahmed Garba, today received members of Gauta Club, an association of political commentators drawn from various political parties in Kano State on a courtesy visit to his office. Gauta Club has played a prominent role in shaping public opinion in the state, leveraging both conventional and social media platforms to engage the public and relevant stakeholders on political developments. This was conveyed in a statement signed by CSP Bashir Muhammad, ANIPR, Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, Zone One Headquarters, Kano, on behalf of the AIG Zone One. Speaking during the visit, the leader of the delegation, Alhaji Hamisu Danwawu Fagge, stated that the visit was intended to strengthen collaboration with the police in ensuring that the activities of their members remain constructive, civil, and in line with the group’s core objectives of educating and enlightening the public on political matters. Read Also: Fixing the Forgotten Crisis: Solutions to Nigeria’s Herders-Farmers Conflict He expressed appreciation for the proactive leadership of AIG Ahmed Garba in maintaining peace and stability across the zone and acknowledged the visible results of the command’s efforts. In his remarks, AIG Garba expressed his appreciation for the visit and described it as timely. He noted that while the role of political commentators is vital in any democracy, unguarded statements particularly those capable of inciting unrest must be avoided. He urged the group to be mindful of the rights of others and to engage in responsible and law-abiding discourse. The AIG assured them of the Police’s support in ensuring that their activities are carried out within the bounds of the Constitution and other relevant laws. He emphasized the importance of mutual respect and partnership between civil society and security agencies in preserving the peaceful atmosphere in the state.

National, News

Photos: President Tinubu Signs Landmark Tax Reform Bills into Law

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed into law four landmark tax reform bills aimed at unifying Nigeria’s fragmented tax system and enhancing transparency in the country’s fiscal policy framework. The newly enacted laws are designed to eliminate duplication, simplify tax administration, boost investor confidence, and create a fairer and more transparent tax environment. Read Also: Nigerian Navy Launches High-Tech Agricultural Initiative to Boost Food Security The signing ceremony took place on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where President Tinubu described the development as a bold and foundational shift in Nigeria’s fiscal policy direction. The laws signed include the Nigeria Tax Bill (Fair Taxation), the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill. Details later.. Photo News:

Abuja, Agriculture, National, News

Nigerian Navy Launches High-Tech Agricultural Initiative to Boost Food Security

In a move to support the Federal Government’s drive for food security, the Nigerian Navy has launched an innovative agricultural initiative through its Admiralty Integrated Farms Limited (ADIFAL). This was revealed during the unveiling of ADIFAL’s Coordination Centre and logo in Abuja. Speaking at the event, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla represented by Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dewu, said the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive for the Armed Forces to engage in farming to address key national challenges. These include food insecurity, the herder-farmer conflict, banditry, and kidnapping. Ogalla praised naval personnel for embracing the farming initiative with commitment and patriotism and commended the ADIFAL team for their dedication. He emphasized the importance of civil-military cooperation in achieving national development goals, especially in agriculture. He urged that interactions with civilians should be respectful and focused on shared national interests. Read Also: Provost Gwaram Unveils FCAPT Progress, Seeks Urgent Completion of Bunkure Campus He further noted that ADIFAL’s success will not only contribute to food sufficiency but also foster peace and stability across Nigeria. In his remarks, the Managing Director and CEO of ADIFAL, Rear Admiral Julius Nwago, said food, nutrition, and security are global priorities. He noted that other countries also engage their military in agriculture to strengthen food security. Nwago explained that ADIFAL would use a comprehensive precision agriculture model that covers all stages of farming from planning and land clearing to harvesting and processing. This model will be supported by advanced technologies including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), which will help maximize yield, reduce waste, and improve decision-making. To enable this, ADIFAL has created a centralized Agro-Precision Farming Platform. The digital platform collects data from satellites, radar, drones, and live audio-visual feeds to offer intelligent recommendations to farmers. Housed at the ADIFAL Coordination Centre, the system includes predictive and generative AI tools that provide real-time responses to farmer inquiries throughout the farming season.

National, News

President Tinubu to Sign Four Critical Tax Reform Bills into Law

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will on Thursday sign into law four significant tax reform bills aimed at transforming Nigeria’s fiscal and revenue framework. The announcement was made on Wednesday in Abuja through a statement by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga. According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the bills are the Nigeria Tax Bill (Ease of Doing Business), the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill. Read Also: Tinubu Commissions N31bn Idu-Zuba Expressway to Ease Traffic, Boost Development The bills were passed by the National Assembly following wide-ranging consultations with various interest groups and stakeholders. Onanuga stated that, once signed into law, the new tax legislation is expected to greatly improve tax administration, enhance revenue generation, and strengthen the business environment. The reforms are also designed to boost both domestic and foreign investment. The Nigeria Tax Bill aims to consolidate Nigeria’s fragmented tax laws into a single harmonised statute. By reducing the multiplicity of taxes and eliminating duplication, it seeks to make tax compliance easier and promote a more business-friendly climate. The Nigeria Tax Administration Bill provides a unified legal and operational framework for tax administration across the federal, state, and local governments, ensuring consistency and efficiency nationwide. The Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill repeals the existing Federal Inland Revenue Service Act and establishes a more autonomous and performance-oriented national revenue agency, known as the Nigeria Revenue Service. The Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill is intended to create a formal structure that will enhance cooperation among revenue authorities at all levels of government. It also includes oversight mechanisms such as the establishment of a Tax Appeal Tribunal and an Office of the Tax Ombudsman to address taxpayer grievances and ensure fairness. The bill signing ceremony will take place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Dignitaries expected to witness the event include the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Majority Leaders of both chambers, and the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Finance. Also expected are the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and the Attorney General of the Federation. (NAN)

Kano, News

Kano Government Congratulates New NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel Leadership

The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, has congratulated the newly inaugurated executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Correspondents’ Chapel, Kano State chapter, led by Comrade Murtala Adewale of The Guardian newspaper. In a statement issued on behalf of the state government, Comrade Waiya described their emergence through a peaceful and democratic process as a strong testament to the trust and confidence their colleagues have in their capacity to lead with integrity, vision, and a deep sense of responsibility. He also commended the immediate past leadership of the Chapel for its dedication and impactful service, noting that it had laid a solid foundation for continued growth and professionalism within the media community. Read Also: Kano Online Media Chapel Invites Digital Journalists to Join as Membership Drive Begins The Commissioner acknowledged the strategic role of the Correspondents’ Chapel in shaping public discourse and projecting government policies to the broader public. He referred to the Chapel as the lens through which the world views developments in Kano State. Waiya urged members of the Chapel to remain committed to the core values of accuracy, objectivity, and fairness in their reportage, particularly in an era where misinformation and fake news pose serious challenges to responsible journalism. “As a Ministry, we reaffirm our commitment to deepening collaboration with the media, especially in areas of capacity building and professional development for journalists across the state,” he stated. He expressed confidence that under the new leadership, the relationship between the Ministry and the Correspondents’ Chapel would be further strengthened through mutual trust and cooperation. The Commissioner concluded by wishing the new executives a successful and productive tenure. Signed: Sani Abba Yola Director, Special Duties Kano State Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs 26th June 2025

National, News

Federal Government Postpones Paramilitary Recruitment Exercise

The Federal Government has announced the postponement of recruitment into paramilitary services under the Ministry of Interior. This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB). According to the statement, the recruitment portal, which was initially scheduled to open on Thursday, 26th June 2025, will now open on Monday, 14th July 2025. Read Also: Massive Paramilitary Recruitment Begins June 26: A Golden Opportunity for Nigerian Youth The Board also released a new official portal address for the application process: recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng. Prospective applicants are advised to take note of the new date and portal address. The CDCFIB emphasized that all applications are free of charge, warning applicants to disregard any request for payment. The statement added that the Board regrets any inconvenience the change in schedule may have caused the public.

Kano, News

Kano Declares Thursday Public Holiday to Mark Islamic New Year 1447 AH

The Kano State Government has declared Thursday, June 26, 2025, as a public holiday to mark the beginning of the Islamic New Year, 1447 After Hijrah. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf congratulated Muslim faithful on witnessing the New Year, which commences with the month of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. This was made known in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya. Read Also: Kano Governor Orders Immediate Rehabilitation of College for French and Chinese Languages The Governor urged the people of the state and the Muslim Ummah at large to use the occasion for deep reflection on their actions over the past year and to offer prayers for lasting peace, unity, and prosperity in Kano State and Nigeria. He also reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the living standards of the citizens through inclusive, people-focused governance.

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