New Tax Law 2026: Simple and Legal Bank Transfer Narrations Nigerians Can Use to Avoid Overpaying Tax as FG Begins Digital Monitoring

As Nigeria prepares to roll out a new tax regime in January 2026, financial experts are urging Nigerians to pay closer attention to how they describe bank transfers. The federal government plans to rely more on digital banking data to improve tax compliance, meaning bank transfer narrations could play a key role in determining whether funds are classified as taxable income.

Tax consultants explain that tax is charged mainly on income earned from services or business activities. When bank transfer narrations are vague or misleading, such transactions may be flagged as income, potentially leading to higher tax liabilities, audits, or penalties during annual filings. Using clear, accurate, and honest descriptions helps ensure individuals only pay tax when it is legally required.

To guide Nigerians, experts recommend simple and lawful narrations such as “Gift/Family support” for personal gifts, “Refund/Reimbursement” for returned money, “Personal transfer” for moving one’s own funds, “Loan received” for borrowed money, and “Capital contribution” when injecting personal funds into a business. For business transactions, describing the exact goods or services sold is advised.

However, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, clarified that banks will not automatically deduct money from accounts regardless of narration. He stressed that Nigerians will still declare their income themselves at year-end, adding that the reform is meant to promote awareness and fairness, not to impose hidden taxes.

The government also dismissed widespread fears surrounding the new tax law, noting that low-income earners, gifts, remittances, pensions, and Nigerians in the diaspora remain exempt. Overall, the reform is positioned as a move to reduce the tax burden on vulnerable groups, strengthen compliance, and stimulate economic growth—making accurate bank transfer narrations an important habit for Nigerians ahead of 2026.

FG Reaffirms Unwavering Commitment to Rule of Law, Dismisses Fabricated Allegations of Targeting Opposition

The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically states that it harbours no plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures. This clarification is in response to a fabricated document in circulation alleging the establishment of a non-existent multi-agency task force for a purported programme tagged “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).

The baseless document falsely claims that a task force comprising the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, aims to aggressively target prominent opposition figures without due process.

The authors of this deliberate disinformation imprudently cite “multiple credible sources” to allege a planned “systematic weakening and neutralisation of opposition political activity,” particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The Federal Government wishes to state emphatically:

1. There is no such programme as “ADP4VIP.”

2. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is firmly and successfully focused on its core agenda: implementing measurable economic reforms, defeating insecurity, expanding trade opportunities, and restoring investor confidence.

3. The attempt by some opposition elements to frame lawful accountability as political targeting is a dangerous red herring designed to shield so-called VIPs from answering to our national laws and anti-corruption agencies.

The Government underscores its foundational principles. Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees every Nigerian the right to freely associate and assemble. President Tinubu swore an oath to uphold this Constitution and its protections, including the freedoms of association and religion. He is a democrat with considerable and positive footprints.

Under President Tinubu's leadership, the Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions. Nigeria is a constitutional democracy where law enforcement and judicial agencies are obligated to perform their duties professionally, without interference, and in the nation's best interest.

Politicians and citizens are therefore enjoined to desist from engaging in disinformation, misinformation, and fake news, especially in an era where credibility is intrinsically linked to informational fidelity.

With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the public should anticipate an increase in fabricated narratives and political blackmail by actors who employ falsehood as a strategy for relevance. We urge all Nigerians to remain vigilant and to reject the politics of distortion and division.

Every Nigerian retains the constitutional right to lawful association and political activity. Concurrently, our security and anti-corruption institutions retain the lawful mandate to operate in the nation's interest.

As we draw the curtain on 2025 and step into a new year, this government will not be distracted by those invested in perpetual politicking. Nigerians deserve continuity, progress, and tangible results—and that is what the Tinubu Administration remains dedicated to delivering.

Mohammed Idris, fnipr
Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation
Federal Republic of Nigeria

Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

Peter Obi Criticizes FG Over Anthony Joshua Road Accident That Killed Two

Peter Obi, former Anambra governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has criticised the federal government for the lack of emergency response during the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway accident involving Nigerian-British boxer Anthony Joshua. The crash, which occurred in the Makun area of Ogun State, resulted in two fatalities while Joshua sustained minor injuries. Obi called for improvements in emergency services and sent prayers for Joshua and the families of the deceased. The incident has sparked widespread reactions online, with Nigerians debating government preparedness and road safety measures.

Insecurity: We Have Approached Turkey For Assistance — FG
The development followed recent cooperation between FG and the United States in tackling insecurity and insurgency in the country.
The Federal Government said it has sought the help of Turkey in tackling the insecurity challenges currently facing the country.

Sokoto Bombing: Senator Ali Ndume Urges FG to Extend US Missile Strikes to Boko Haram, ISWAP Strongholds in North-East

Borno South Senator and former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, has called on the Nigerian government to expand its ongoing joint military operations with the United States beyond Sokoto to the North-East region. Ndume made the call while reacting to the recent US airstrike in Tangaza LGA of Sokoto State, which targeted ISIS-linked militants. According to him, extending the collaboration to areas such as Lake Chad, the Sambisa Forest, and the Mandara Mountains would significantly weaken Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents. He also advocated deeper intelligence sharing, logistical support, and deployment of attack helicopters to assist Nigerian troops. Ndume commended President Bola Tinubu for increased defence spending in the 2026 budget, while urging transparency in its execution, and expressed condolences to victims of the recent mosque bombing in Maiduguri.

FG GRADUATES OVER 7,000 FOREST GUARDS, SET FOR IMMEDIATE DEPLOYMENT

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has announced the graduation of over 7,000 newly recruited Forest Guards drawn from seven frontline states, following the successful completion of an intensive three-month training programme under the Presidential Forest Guards Initiative launched by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in May 2025.

The initiative represents a coordinated Federal–State security intervention aimed at reclaiming Nigeria’s forests from criminal exploitation.

The graduation ceremonies were held on 27 December 2025 across Borno, Sokoto, Yobe, Adamawa, Niger, Kwara, and Kebbi States. The programme is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s internal security architecture by denying terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal groups sanctuary within forested and hard-to-reach terrains.

The training programme was deliberately intensive, structured, and demanding, designed to transform loyal and committed Nigerians into agile, disciplined, and capable field operatives. The curriculum integrated environmental conservation principles with advanced security competencies, ensuring a balanced, professional, and mission-ready force.

Trainees underwent extensive physical and mental conditioning, including endurance exercises, obstacle-crossing drills, and long-range patrol simulations to prepare them for sustained forest operations.

They were also trained in tactical fieldcraft, including movement techniques, enemy-contact drills, ambush response, rescue operations, and coordinated offensive actions—equipping them to deny criminal elements any form of sanctuary within Nigeria’s forest spaces.

Equally central to the programme was a strong emphasis on ethics, legality, and professionalism. The curriculum placed significant focus on human rights, International Humanitarian Law (IHL), gender rights, and the protection of civilians.

Arms handling and use-of-force protocols were strictly regulated in line with an Arms Management Manual jointly agreed upon by all participating agencies.

Speaking at the ceremonies, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, described the initiative as a decisive step toward restoring state authority and protecting vulnerable communities.

“These Forest Guards are not just uniformed personnel. They are first responders, community protectors, and a critical layer of Nigeria’s security architecture. They will hold ground, gather intelligence, and support security agencies in reclaiming territories previously overtaken by criminal elements.”

The NSA confirmed that deployment will commence immediately, with no gap between graduation and operational duty.

“There will be no delay between graduation and deployment. Salaries and allowances will commence immediately, and every certified guard will proceed directly to assigned duty posts,” he stated.

The training programme recorded a 98.2 percent completion rate. A total of 81 trainees were disqualified on disciplinary grounds, while two trainees passed away due to pre-existing medical conditions. All successful participants have been fully certified and cleared for operational service.

The graduating Forest Guards are indigenous to their respective local government areas, enabling them to leverage terrain familiarity and community trust in countering banditry, kidnapping, and the illegal exploitation of forest resources.

The Nigerian Forest Guard is an inter-agency national security initiative established under the leadership and strategic guidance of the National Security Adviser, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment, and operationally coordinated by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Park Service.

The programme draws doctrine, operational alignment, and strategic input from the Defence Headquarters, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)—ensuring unity of command, clarity of purpose, and operational effectiveness.

Governors and Deputy Governors from the seven participating states attended the ceremonies, including Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State and Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, with other states represented by their Deputy Governors.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment, the NSA concluded: “By protecting our forests, we are securing our territory. And by securing our territory, we are protecting our people. The Federal Government will not relent. This initiative will expand nationwide as part of our sustained effort to build a safer and more secure Nigeria.”

Take-It-Back Movement Condemns US Airstrikes In Nigeria, Says Tinubu Has Failed On Security, Demands His Resignation

The Take-It-Back Movement (TIB) has strongly condemned recent United States airstrikes targeting ISIS-linked groups within Nigeria, warning that the action undermines national sovereignty and exposes the failure of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to secure the country. In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Sanyaolu Juwon, the movement acknowledged the threat posed by terrorism but rejected foreign military intervention on Nigerian soil, citing the devastating consequences of past U.S.-led interventions in countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan. TIB accused the Tinubu government of failing to protect citizens and Nigeria’s territorial integrity, linking public support for the airstrikes to a growing loss of confidence in the administration. The group also referenced the government’s crackdown on the 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests as evidence of misplaced priorities, and concluded by calling for President Tinubu’s resignation, insisting that sovereignty belongs to the people and not a government that cannot guarantee security and welfare.

NIGERIA–UNITED STATES SECURITY COOPERATION PRECISELY HITS TERRORIST TARGETS - FG

The Federal Government confirms that Nigerian authorities, in structured security cooperation with international partners including the United States of America, have conducted successful precision air strikes against terrorist targets in the North-West region.

A statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscores that this joint action is a result of sustained intelligence collaboration and strategic coordination.

The cooperation strictly adheres to established international law, bilateral agreements, and mutual respect for sovereignty, with the shared goal of enhancing regional and global security.

The Federal Government reiterates that all counter-terrorism operations are conducted with the paramount objective of protecting civilian lives, safeguarding national unity, and upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens. Terrorism, whether targeting Christian, Muslim, or other communities, is a direct attack on Nigeria’s core values and a threat to international peace.

The Government remains committed to working through established diplomatic and security channels to degrade terrorist networks, disrupt their financing and logistics, and counter cross-border threats. These efforts are simultaneously focused on strengthening Nigeria’s domestic security institutions and intelligence capabilities.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry further assures of continued engagement with relevant partners and will keep the public informed through official channels.

FG Condemns Borno Mosque Attack, Intensifies Security Operations in Maiduguri

The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned the bomb attack at a mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, which claimed five lives and injured several others. Vice President Kashim Shettima described the attack as a “despicable assault on innocent citizens” and emphasized that it would not weaken Nigeria’s unity or resolve to fight terrorism.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate intensification of security operations in Borno State. Additional tactical security teams are being deployed to the area to track down and apprehend those responsible. Shettima expressed confidence in Nigeria’s security architecture to ensure the perpetrators face the full weight of the law.

The vice president also extended condolences to the victims’ families, the Borno State government, and residents of Maiduguri. He reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to safeguarding national security, protecting lives, and maintaining stability. Federal authorities are working closely with state and local security agencies to strengthen protection for vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North East and other regions.

The attack has also sparked emotional reactions on social media, with family members of victims sharing tributes. Shettima assured the public that security agencies are working round the clock to bring justice and prevent future attacks.

NRC Records Heavy Passenger Turnout as FG Launches 50% Yuletide Train Fare Discount

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) reported a surge in passenger traffic across major rail routes following the federal government’s introduction of a 50% discounted train fare for the Yuletide season. The discount, running from December 23, 2025, to January 4, 2026, applies to both standard-gauge and narrow-gauge services. NRC assured passengers of enhanced safety, security, and efficient services, while encouraging online bookings for standard-gauge routes. The initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to reduce transport costs and promote rail usage during peak travel periods.

#NigeriaRailwayCorporation #NRC #TrainFareDiscount #YuletideTravel #FederalGovernment #RailTransport

Court Orders Final Forfeiture of Goodluck Jonathan Estate Lands to FG

The Federal High Court in Abuja has permanently forfeited lands approved for the Goodluck Jonathan Legacy Model Housing Estate to the Federal Government. Judge Mohammed Umar granted the ICPC’s request on December 11, 2025, directing supervision in collaboration with the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria to ensure the housing units benefit end-users. The forfeited plots include Plot 5 in Kaba District (122,015.80 m², valued at N1.94 billion) and Plot 4 (157,198.30 m², valued at N3.34 billion), suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity. A joint ICPC-FMBN committee will oversee completion of the project. This follows similar government action on ex-CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele’s estate, with public calls for transparency and productive use of recovered assets.

#GoodluckJonathanEstate #ICPC #AssetRecovery #FederalGovernment #NigeriaNews #HousingDevelopment #FMBN #CourtForfeiture

FG INTRODUCES MANDATORY PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TESTING FOR PUBLIC SERVICE APPLICANTS

The Federal Government has approved the introduction of mandatory pre-employment drug testing as a requirement for prospective applicants into the Public Service. This move is part of ongoing efforts to curb the rising menace of illicit drug use and its attendant consequences on national development and security.

In a statement from the SGF's office, Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments/Parastatals are hereby directed to include mandatory drug testing as a core requirement in the recruitment of new personnel. Additionally, MDAs are to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in conducting the tests, in line with established standards and procedures.

This directive to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), including extra-Ministerial Departments, aligns with the present Administration's determination to decisively tackle the menace of drug and substance abuse and insulate the national workforce from unwholesome practices.

The introduction of mandatory pre-employment drug testing is premised on the concern raised by the Federal Government about the alarming rate of drug and substance abuse, particularly among the teeming youth in the country, with disturbing trends and far-reaching implications for public health, socio-economic development, workplace productivity, and national security.

FG DECLARES DECEMBER 25, 26 AND JANUARY 1 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

The Federal Government has declared December 25 and 26, 2025, as well as January 1, 2026, public holidays to mark Christmas, Boxing Day, and the New Year celebrations.

A statement by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani indicates that the declaration was made on behalf of the Federal Government by the Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

The Minister calls for reflection on the values of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice associated with the birth of Jesus Christ.

He also calls on Nigerians, regardless of faith or ethnicity, to use the festive season to pray for peace, security, and national progress.

Tunji-Ojo further urges citizens to remain law-abiding and security conscious during the celebrations, while wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

FG Lists 31 Individuals and Groups as Terrorists Under New National Security Doctrine

President Bola Tinubu has unveiled a sweeping new national security doctrine in Nigeria, redefining who will be treated as terrorists under state law. The directive classifies armed groups, kidnappers, extortionists, and foreign-linked mercenaries as terrorists. It also includes enablers such as financiers, arms suppliers, safe house owners, and political, traditional, community, or religious leaders who facilitate or encourage violent acts. The President emphasized that the doctrine aims to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, protect corporate survival, and reduce public anxiety. The government will prioritize equipping the armed forces and security agencies with personnel and modern hardware to ensure effective implementation.

FG Launches ₦5 Million Youth Credit Scheme (YouthCred)

The Federal Government has introduced YouthCred, a new credit scheme that allows gainfully employed Nigerian youths (18-39 years) to access affordable loans of up to ₦5 million through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP).
The programme is designed to help young workers overcome financial challenges, improve productivity, and build a formal credit history without falling into the hands of loan sharks or unregulated lenders.

Who can apply?
Employed youths in the public or private sector

Loan amount:
Up to ₦5 million

Interest rate:
Low and affordable (government-backed)

Repayment method:
Structured repayment with salary reduction.

Why it matters:
YouthCred provides a safer, transparent alternative to high-interest loan apps and informal lenders.

Link to apply: http://youthcred.com

*Defence & Security - ₦5.41trillion; Infrastructure - ₦3.56 trillion; Education- ₦3.52 trillion; Health & Social Services - ₦2.48 trillion

*President Tinubu says Food Security shall remain a national priority

*FG targets cultivation of one million hectares of land by Nigerian farmers

*Improved revenue expected through new Tax Laws and oil sector reforms - Pres. Tinubu

Ini Edo’s Movie Controversy Deepens as FG Steps In After CAN Condemns ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’ Title

Nigeria’s film regulators have stepped into the controversy surrounding Nollywood star Ini Edo’s new movie, A Very Dirty Christmas, following public outrage and condemnation from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) confirmed it approved the film after standard review procedures but acknowledged that public interpretation of the title sparked religious concerns. As discussions with the film’s producers continue, Ini Edo has defended the movie as a metaphorical work meant to provoke reflection, while authorities stress the need for religious sensitivity and peaceful coexistence.

Info Min Inspects FG Press, Says FG Will Revive Abandoned Headquarters

The Federal Government is taking decisive measures to revive the abandoned headquarters building of Government Press to end several years of neglect and waste of resources.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, while on an assessment tour of the facility in Abuja, says the abandoned project is inconsistent with the Federal Government’s renewed focus on accountability.

NAF Pilots, Crew’s Detention in Burkina Faso Resolved — FG

The Federal Government has announced the resolution of the diplomatic issue surrounding the detention of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) pilots and crew members in Burkina Faso.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this in a statement, confirming that the detained NAF personnel are expected to return to Nigeria soon.

According to Tuggar, the breakthrough followed a high-level visit by a Federal Government delegation, which he led, to the Burkinabe leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. During the engagement, both countries addressed the circumstances surrounding the detention and reached a mutual understanding that led to its resolution.

Beyond resolving the incident, Tuggar said discussions also focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Burkina Faso, as well as deepening regional integration within the sub-region.

The development underscores ongoing diplomatic efforts by Nigeria to protect its citizens abroad while maintaining constructive ties with neighbouring countries.

#NigeriaNews #NAF #BurkinaFaso #Diplomacy

Trump Unveils White House ‘Presidential Walk Of Fame’, Uses Official Plaques To Launch Fierce Attacks On Biden, Obama And Bush

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has installed controversial “Presidential Walk of Fame” plaques beneath portraits of past American leaders inside the White House, using the displays to sharply criticise predecessors Joe Biden, Barack Obama and George W. Bush. The plaques, located along the West Colonnade, accuse Biden of economic collapse, border failures and foreign policy disasters, brand Obama as divisive and blame his administration for major global and domestic setbacks, while offering a mixed assessment of Bush that praises post-9/11 leadership but condemns the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The move has sparked fresh debate over the politicisation of official White House spaces.