Author: Dirisu Yakubu
The House of Representatives is currently in a closed-door session to discuss President Bola Tinubu’s request to extend the capital component of the 2023 Appropriation Act. The lower legislative chamber reconvened after the Sallah break to consider this request. House leader Julius Ihonvbere clarified that the request was not to alter the contents of the budget but to adjust the completion date of ongoing projects. However, minority leader Kingsley Chinda raised concerns about the burden of running multiple budgets simultaneously. Despite differing opinions, members like Sada Soli and Alhassan Ado-Doguwa emphasized the importance of aligning with the truth for the…
A group of lawmakers known as G-60 in the House of Representatives called for the trial of 23 former local government chairmen in Rivers State for alleged treason. Led by Ikenga Ugochinyere, the lawmakers accused the ex-chairmen of illegally attempting to retain their positions after their term ended. They urged the Rivers state government to press treason charges against the chairmen and their sponsors. The group highlighted various laws that were breached by the former council bosses and emphasized the need for the judiciary to prevent any unlawful takeover of government institutions. The lawmakers commended Governor Fubara and the people…
President Bola Tinubu is set to receive a groundbreaking draft bill today that aims to transition Nigeria back to a regional system of government. Authored by Afenifere chieftain Akin Fapohunda, the proposed legislation titled “A Bill for an Act to substitute the annexure to Decree 24 of 1999 with New Governance Model for the Federal Republic of Nigeria” calls for the establishment of a new governance model for the country under “The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria New Governance Model for Nigeria Act 2024.” Despite initial disownment by the House of Representatives, Fapohunda is steadfast in his mission…
President Bola Tinubu will receive a draft bill on Friday proposing a return to a regional system of government for Nigeria. The bill seeks a new governance model and new laws under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria New Governance Model for Nigeria Act 2024. The bill, authored by Akin Fapohunda of Afenifere, proposes dividing Nigeria into eight geo-political regions with interim boundaries. Each region will have autonomy in managing its affairs, creating sub-entities, and governing at the provincial and divisional levels. The Coalition of Indigenous Ethnic Nationalities (CIEN) also proposes downsizing the current states into provinces and…
BILL FOR SINGLE TERM OF SIX YEARS FOR PRESIDENT, ROTATION OF PRESIDENCY AMONG ZONES In a bid to reduce the cost of governance and promote national unity, 35 members of the House of Representatives have introduced a bill proposing a single term of six years for the President and state governors. The bill also advocates for the rotation of the presidency among the six geopolitical zones of the country. The lawmakers, under the Reformed-minded Legislators group, believe that this proposition will lead to a more efficient government, seamless transition, and unprecedented development for the country. The bill also seeks amendments…
The Potential of Nigeria’s Gold Reserve Industry: A Game Changer for Economic Growth The Senate recently passed a bill sponsored by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, aiming to revolutionize Nigeria’s Gold Reserve Industry. With an estimated 600,000 tonnes of gold reserves valued at $45 billion, the bill seeks to establish a framework for the efficient exploitation and marketing of this precious resource. Natasha emphasized how this legislation could drive economic growth, attract investors, create jobs, and boost government revenue. By implementing strict regulations to mitigate environmental impacts, Nigeria can position itself as a reputable player in the global gold market. Citing examples from…
In the wake of the recent tragic killing of military personnel in Aba, Abia State, the House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to take immediate action to prevent such incidents from happening again. The lawmakers have also pledged to play their part in ensuring the safety of military personnel on peace missions nationwide. During a plenary session, the House called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the murder of three soldiers in Aba. They also urged military authorities to be cautious in identifying and bringing the perpetrators to justice. Moving the motion,…
Lawmakers from opposition parties in the House of Representatives are pushing for a new minimum wage exceeding N100,000 to satisfy organised labour, which is demanding N494,000 instead of the proposed N60,000 by the Federal Government. The ongoing stalemate led to a nationwide strike disrupting economic activities. Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda emphasized the need for a living wage above $200 (N298,800), calling the current wages unconstitutional and neglecting citizens’ welfare. He stressed the urgency for the government to resolve the matter with labour unions promptly. Similarly, Representative Oluwole Oke advocated for a minimum wage of N120,000, highlighting the interconnectivity of wage…
The Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji, attributes the agency’s success in increased tax revenue to President Bola Tinubu’s provision of a conducive economic environment. Under his leadership, FIRS has surpassed revenue targets and achieved a 58% increase in tax compliance. Adedeji emphasizes the focus on economic growth and prosperity, highlighting initiatives such as granting businesses waivers on interest and penalties to enhance compliance. Adedeji discusses reform efforts at FIRS, including restructuring for improved customer service. The agency is investing in technology and data mining to enhance revenue collection. He emphasizes the importance of tax education and…