Nigeria’s 2025 Tax Reforms Boost Competitiveness, Simplify Levies, and Protect Investors — Tope Fasua

Dr. Tope Fasua has clarified public misconceptions surrounding Nigeria’s new tax administration laws set to take effect in January 2026. Contrary to fears of investor flight and high tax burdens, he explains that the Nigeria Tax Act (NTA) and Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA) modernize the system, streamline levies, and align Nigeria with global standards. A key change is the 4% Development Levy, which replaces multiple fragmented taxes like TETFund, NITDA, NASENI, and Police Trust Fund levies—reducing compliance costs and improving predictability for businesses. The reforms also preserve Free Trade Zone incentives while curbing misuse, introduce a globally approved 15% minimum tax for large multinationals, and ensure fair competition with large domestic firms. Fasua argues the reforms ultimately enhance investor confidence, revenue stability, and Nigeria’s economic competitiveness.

FG Approves Kogi-Hunan Free Trade Zone

… As Stakeholders Set for Abuja Briefing

The Federal Government has approved the establishment of the Kogi–Hunan Free Trade Zone, paving the way for the takeoff of the Ajaokuta Economic City as the Kogi State Government begins preparations for a major stakeholders’ briefing in Abuja.

The initiative follows the strategic partnership between the Kogi state government led by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and the Zhuzhou Municipal Government of Hunan Province, China, under the Kogi–Hunan Sister Province Relationship.

According to the invitation to the official media briefing by Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor and Chief Executive Officer of the Kogi State Investment Promotion and Public Private Partnership Agency (KSIPPA), Aliyu Inda Salami, government agencies, investors and development partners will be briefed on the project framework, investment opportunities and next steps at the event in Abuja this Tuesday.
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Imo Communities Suffer as ₦273m Irete–Ndegwu Road Project Stalls Despite Two Years of Funding – MonITNG

Accountability group MonITNG has accused the Federal Ministry of Works of repeatedly allocating funds for the 1.5km Irete–Ndegwu Road in Owerri West, Imo State, despite no evidence of work on the ground. The project, budgeted in 2023 and again in 2024, reportedly received ₦273.3 million paid to Pinnatech Engineering Ltd, yet Tracka’s inspections found the road untouched—muddy, flooded, and dangerous. The group says pregnant women, schoolchildren, and traders remain at risk as the abandoned project worsens daily hardship. MonITNG demands full transparency, release of contract details, and a probe by ICPC and EFCC, insisting that public funds must be traced, recovered, and the road constructed without further delay.

VP Shettima Departs Abuja For Abidjan

Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja for Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of Alassane Ouattara for a fourth term in office as President of that country.

In a Statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha said Shettima is expected to join other leaders across Africa and beyond to witness activities lined up for the swearing-in ceremony scheduled to hold on Monday, December 8, 2025, at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan.

Quatara was re-elected for a fourth term in office on October 25, 2025 as President of Côte d'Ivoire, a West African country that shares cordial diplomatic ties with Nigeria.

Both nations collaborate significantly within ECOWAS and the African Union on security, trade, and development, formalised by a Bi-National Commission and numerous agreements covering areas like anti-trafficking, agriculture, and digital economy, with strong informal trade and significant Nigerian diaspora in Côte d'Ivoire, fostering deep bilateral economic and social connections.

The Vice President is accompanied by HE Omar Aliyu Touray, President of ECOWAS Commission; Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, Chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and Hon. Usman Zannah, member representing Kaga/Gubio/Magumeri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

The Vice President is expected back in Abuja at the end of the inauguration ceremony.

Nigeria’s Waning Influence Blamed for Rising Coups in West Africa — Activist Nwapa

Human rights advocate Francis Nwapa has linked the recent military coup in Benin Republic to Nigeria’s declining leadership role and governance failures in West Africa. Responding to reports that soldiers led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri tried to remove President Patrice Talon and seized national institutions, Nwapa argued that Nigeria’s inability to provide strong democratic leadership, economic stability, and respect for human rights has weakened its regional credibility.

Nwapa said Nigeria once shaped stability across Africa but has now lost the moral authority needed to discourage military takeovers. He noted that frustrations with Nigeria’s economic decline, especially the weakened naira, are felt across neighbouring countries, citing interactions with traders from Togo and Benin during his 2025 visit to Ghana. The activist warned that unless Nigeria’s political elites urgently improve governance, the region could face more instability and internal unrest.

Naira Falls to ₦1,454/$1 as Festive Dollar Demand Rises, CBN, Traders Reveal New Rates

Nigeria’s naira weakened further against the US dollar, closing the week at ₦1,454/$1 in the official market as holiday-related spending triggered a surge in forex demand. Parallel market traders in Lagos also reported declines, with the dollar trading between ₦1,469.5 and ₦1,490.
Data from the CBN showed a steady week-long depreciation despite a slight increase in Nigeria’s foreign reserves to $45.04 billion, raising hopes for possible market intervention. Analysts attribute the pressure to importers, traders, and festive shoppers rapidly accumulating dollars.
Despite the setback, experts say improved liquidity, rising reserves, and potential remittance inflows could help stabilize the naira as December progresses.

Rice Prices Fall to N55,000–N70,000 as Local Supply and Imports Surge Across Nigerian Markets

Rice prices have dropped significantly across major Lagos markets, with a 50kg bag now selling between N55,000 and N70,000 due to improved harvests, increased imports, and a temporary oversupply. While consumers welcome the relief, many traders are counting heavy losses after purchasing rice at much higher prices earlier in the year.
Local and imported brands recorded sharp declines, with prices falling from as high as N95,000 in January to as low as N57,000 in October. Traders warn that the sudden slump has destabilized business planning, and experts caution that the decrease may be temporary, as fluctuating supply could push prices up again before December.
Consumers are relieved by the temporary affordability, though some note weakened purchasing power remains a challenge. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Customs Service has warned that rice smuggling continues to worsen Nigeria’s forex situation and threatens local producers.

NAFDAC Raises Alarm Over Surge of Smuggled Prohibited Food Products in Nigerian Markets

NAFDAC has issued a public warning about the increasing circulation of prohibited food products—including pasta, noodles, sugar, and tomato paste—illegally smuggled into Nigerian markets. The agency says these items, listed on the Customs Prohibition List, bypass mandatory safety checks and pose serious health risks. NAFDAC has ordered importers, supermarkets, and traders to immediately stop the sale and distribution of such products or face seizures, licence revocations, and prosecution. The agency also called for coordinated action with Customs, Immigration, SON, NPA, NIMASA, NAQS, and other regulators to prevent further influx of unsafe items. NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumers and enforcing food safety regulations nationwide.

Photos from the ongoing rehabilitation of the Bauchi–Gombe Road under the Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks a significant step toward transforming one of the most neglected federal roads in the North-East.

For years, the Bauchi–Gombe corridor was widely regarded as one of the worst roads to travel on, causing hardship for motorists, traders, and communities that rely on it for daily movement and economic activities. Today, that narrative is changing, as extensive rehabilitation work is visibly underway.

This progress is a testament to the dedication of Engr. David Umahi, the Honourable Minister of Works, whose leadership reflects the Federal Government’s strong commitment to delivering quality infrastructure, enhancing regional connectivity, and driving national development.

With this project, the administration is not only easing transportation challenges but also boosting commerce, safety, and socioeconomic growth across the region.

Ifeanyi Ejiofor Slams Boris Johnson’s Comments on Nigeria as ‘Imperial Mindset’

Human rights lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor has strongly criticised former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson over remarks he made at an economic summit in Owerri, Imo State. Johnson had joked about trade relations, security concerns, and political mobility between Nigeria and the UK, comments Ejiofor described as disrespectful and rooted in “imperial mindset.” He argued that Johnson’s statements echoed colonial-era attitudes and ignored the historical imbalance in relations between both countries. Ejiofor also faulted African elites for applauding the remarks, calling it a troubling display of complicity. He urged Nigeria to demand more nuance from visiting leaders, reframe narratives around trade, and prioritise partnerships based on technology transfer, capacity building, and equitable terms.

How Global Events Drive Crude Oil Price Fluctuations

This article explains how global political tensions, production decisions, economic performance, trade route disruptions, currency shifts, environmental policies, and market psychology all play critical roles in shaping crude oil prices. It highlights how traders react not only to real supply changes but also to expectations and sentiment driven by global events.

Second Republic Senator Isa Obaro of Old Kwara State Dies at 89

Former Second Republic senator, Isa Abonyi Obaro, who represented the old Kwara South (now Kogi Central) under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), has passed away.
Obaro was widely respected as a legal luminary and a committed advocate for the Ebira people. Before joining politics, he served in the Federal Civil Service between 1958 and 1960, later building a notable legal career from 1963–1968 and 1975–1979.
He also served as a commissioner in the Kwara State Executive Council from 1968 to 1975, and during his Senate tenure, contributed to major legislative work, including the Committee on Trade and Industries.

Tinubu Welcomes 21 New Envoys, Reaffirms Nigeria’s Commitment to Global Peace and Partnerships

President Bola Tinubu has received Letters of Credence from 21 newly accredited foreign diplomats, assuring them of Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening global partnerships in trade, security, development, and diplomacy. Speaking at the State House, Tinubu reaffirmed his open-door policy and encouraged deeper collaboration across key sectors including energy, agriculture, technology, education, and defence. He emphasised Nigeria’s readiness to work with the international community to address global challenges such as security threats, climate pressures, and economic instability.
Japan’s Ambassador, Suzuki Hideo, who spoke on behalf of the envoys, praised Tinubu's economic reforms and national security efforts, describing Nigeria as a resilient and promising nation within ECOWAS and Africa.

Lagos Tops 2025 Ease of Doing Business Ranking as PEBEC Warns States on Urgent Reforms

The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) has released the 2025 Subnational Ease of Doing Business Report, with Lagos leading at 85.6%, far ahead of other states. Kaduna, Oyo, FCT, and Ogun complete the top five, while Enugu, Plateau, Ekiti, Kano, and Nasarawa make the top ten. PEBEC says the ranking is based on hard administrative evidence across 16 indicators, highlighting gaps in power stability, investor aftercare, interstate trade rules, and MSME financing. The council warns that without urgent reforms, Nigerian businesses may continue relocating to more stable environments like Ghana, Rwanda, and Kenya.

Soldiers Assault Policeman, Seize Rifle During Clash at Jos Mall

A confrontation between soldiers and police officers caused panic at a busy mall in Jos after a disagreement over the attempted arrest of a roadside phone repairer escalated into a physical fight. Witnesses said a soldier accused the trader of damaging his phone and tried to arrest him, but a police officer insisted the matter be taken to a station. The soldier later returned with colleagues, assaulted the officer, and reportedly fled with his rifle. The Plateau State Police Command confirmed that order had been restored and that personnel from both agencies involved in the altercation have been sanctioned. The incident follows recent tensions between security agencies across Nigeria, including a separate case in Taraba where the police denied allegations of an officer collaborating with militia members.


#Jossoldierspoliceclash

#PlateauStatemallincident

Multiple Fatalities Feared as Massive Crash Involving 10 Vehicles Hits Enugu’s New Gariki




A major accident at New Gariki along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway on Wednesday caused widespread panic after at least 10 vehicles — including four trailers, commercial buses, Sienna vans, and smaller cars — collided, leaving body parts scattered across the scene.
The crash, which occurred near the busy Gariki Market, resulted in significant but yet-to-be-confirmed casualties. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as traders and passersby rushed to rescue survivors trapped under crushed vehicles.
Soldiers later arrived to control traffic and assist rescue efforts, while emergency responders continued struggling to recover victims due to the extensive damage. Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the incident or the official death toll.


#Enugu #Gariki #RoadAccident #EnuguPortHarcourtExpressway #NigeriaNews #MultipleCrash #FatalAccident #RoadSafety #BreakingNews

Terrorists Ambush Traders on Kwara–Kogi Road, Multiple Feared Kidnapped in Fresh Attack




Terrorists on Tuesday, December 2, ambushed traders traveling from Koro in Kwara State to Egbe in Kogi State for the weekly Ebu Market Day. The attackers intercepted vehicles along the Koro–Egbe route, kidnapping an unspecified number of passengers. The incident has intensified fear in border communities already plagued by rising criminal activity.
This assault follows a recent attack on the Oshokoshoko–Obajana highway in Kogi State, where gunmen took control of the road, leaving commuters stranded for hours amid gunfire between security forces and the attackers. Distressed travelers captured video footage pleading for urgent government intervention as insecurity in the region continues to escalate.

Adamawa Government Issues 21-Day Demolition Notice on Properties Linked to Ex-Governor Bindo Supporters, Triggers Public Outrage

A major controversy has erupted in Yola after the Adamawa State Government issued a 21-day demolition notice to owners of multi-billion-naira commercial properties allegedly linked to supporters of former Governor Umar Jibrilla Bindo. The notice, released by the Adamawa State Urban and Regional Development Board (ASURB) on November 1, 2025, orders occupants to vacate the buildings without offering compensation or alternative arrangements.

The targeted structures—located along Atiku Abubakar Way, Gimba Road, Forestry axis, and Hospital Road—were originally allocated during Bindo’s administration. Affected shop owners and developers accuse the Fintiri-led government of political persecution, intimidation, and economic sabotage. Many expressed shock, noting that they invested life savings and bank loans into the properties. Traders warn that demolitions would destroy livelihoods and displace employees, fueling tension and accusations of a broader political witch-hunt.
#Adamawa demolition notice #Bindo supporters properties

A bold undersea railway project is rapidly gaining traction, offering the promise of shorter journeys, stronger trade links, and an entirely new map of regional connectivity.
In China, engineers and planners are pushing forward with an ambitious plan to carve a high-speed rail line beneath the Bohai Strait, linking two bustling peninsulas through a deep, pressurised tunnel. The idea is simple: replace a six-hour trip around the sea with a fast, under-one-hour dash beneath it.

Reps To Organise Summit On Drug Abuse, Alcohol Misuse.

Reps To Organise Summit On Drug Abuse, Alcohol Misuse

The House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee investigating the rising cases of drug trafficking, alcohol, and substance abuse in Nigeria has announced plans to convene a multi-stakeholder conference in Lagos and Abuja to deliberate and gather public input on strategies to tackle the growing menace.

He said the initiative was in response to mounting public concern over what he described as a “national emergency” that cuts across public health, youth safety, corporate accountability, and the integrity of Nigeria’s trade and regulatory systems.

“Our mandate is clear. We are to investigate the conduct of companies operating within the drug, alcohol, and tobacco industries and ensure absolute compliance with Nigerian laws, regulations, and ethical obligations to the Nigerian people,” Adelegbe stated.

According to him, the committee’s work will focus on key areas of national concern, including the increasing abuse of codeine-laced cough syrups, tramadol, and other controlled substances, as well as the unchecked production and sale of cheap spirit cocktails and illicit alcoholic beverages.

The committee will also investigate the targeted marketing of alcohol and nicotine products to underage Nigerians, the circulation of fake and substandard drugs, corporate complicity, weak regulatory enforcement, and unethical market practices that endanger public health.

Adelegbe emphasised that the committee’s work will prioritise human life and national interest above corporate profit, stressing that “The era of corporate recklessness, weak compliance, and regulatory compromise is over.”

He listed the key laws and regulations guiding the investigation to include, “NAFDAC Act Cap N1 LFN 2004 – Product registration, safety, and standards; National Tobacco Control Act 2015 – Tobacco regulation and advertising; ARCON Act 2022 – Advertising standards and consumer protection; and FCCPC Act 2018 – Fair competition and consumer rights.”