Senator Ifeanyi Ubah has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the Southeast Development Commission Bill into law. This bill is a significant step towards addressing longstanding developmental challenges and fostering regional unity in the Southeast.

“The passage of this bill marks the culmination of the Southeast’s tireless efforts, as championed by me and other lawmakers, to establish a development commission that will address the region’s critical needs,” Senator Ubah stated.

The Southeast Development Commission will manage funds allocated from the Federation Account for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses, and other infrastructure damaged during the civil war. It will also tackle ecological problems and other environmental or developmental challenges in Abia, Imo, Enugu, Anambra, and Ebonyi states.

Ubah’s commendation of President Tinubu underscores the importance of the President’s commitment to the region. This new law reverses the previous administration’s denial of assent, which had reinforced feelings of injustice and hindered the progress of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Southeast.

Ubah re-presented the bill to the Senate on October 4, 2023, after it was initially denied assent by the former administration. At that time, he emphasized the bill’s aim to establish a commission focused on the development of the historically marginalized Southeast region, which has faced various challenges in terms of infrastructure, healthcare, and economic development.

Senator Ubah’s appreciation reflects the collective gratitude of the Southeast people, who eagerly anticipate the positive impact of this development commission on their region’s growth and prosperity.

On Wednesday, four officials from the West African Examination Council (WAEC) were detained by the House of Representatives Committee on Basic Examination Bodies due to their failure to adequately address questions during an investigative hearing in Abuja.

The detained officials were Amos Josiah Dangut, Head of National Office; Angus Okeleze, Senior Deputy Registrar; Victor Odu, Acting Director of Finance; and Segun Jerumeh, Deputy Director of Finance.

The detention followed a heated argument between the lawmakers and the WAEC officials regarding the body’s accountability to the parliament. Dangut argued that WAEC was not a government agency and thus not accountable to the National Assembly. However, the lawmakers countered that WAEC Nigeria is established by an Act of the National Assembly and is required to account for its activities. They also noted that appropriations are made for WAEC by the National Assembly.

Rep. Uchenna Okonkwo moved a motion for the WAEC officials to be held in custody while the investigation continued. This motion was supported by Rep. Marie Ebikake. Despite the officials’ protests, they were detained briefly by the Sergeant at Arms of the National Assembly.

Following a closed-door session, the committee resolved to release the officials but instructed them to return with the requested documents. Rep. Oforji Oboku, the Committee Chairman, demanded the audited statements of WAEC’s accounts from 2018 to 2024, as well as documents related to a ₦5 billion loan accessed by WAEC in 2022 for purchasing custom-made calculators.

Oboku emphasized that WAEC is subject to the National Assembly’s oversight and that failure to produce the required documents could lead to sanctions. The committee plans to invite WAEC again at a later date to ensure compliance and accountability.

On Monday, July 22, the House of Representatives initiated an investigation into the claims made by Farouk Ahmed, the CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), regarding the sulphur content in diesel produced at the Dangote Refinery.

The House has recommended President Ahmed Tinubu suspend Ahmed pending a thorough investigation. This recommendation followed a motion of urgent public importance introduced by Representative Esosa Iyawe during a plenary session.

Iyawe’s motion highlighted Ahmed’s remarks that the diesel from the Dangote Refinery was substandard, citing high sulphur content levels between 650 and 1,200 parts per million (ppm). However, tests supervised by members of the House revealed Dangote’s diesel had a sulphur content of 87.6 ppm, while imported diesel samples had sulphur levels exceeding 1,800 ppm and 2,000 ppm, respectively.

The discrepancies in sulphur content led to accusations against the NMDPRA for allegedly granting licenses to importers of high-sulphur diesel, posing health risks and financial losses for Nigerians. Iyawe criticized Ahmed’s statements as unprofessional and undermining local refineries while supporting the continued importation of substandard fuel, which has led to calls for protests against the federal government.

The House Joint Committee on Petroleum Resources has begun investigating the matter and plans to engage with Dangote Refinery, other refiners, and industry stakeholders to address the issue and take necessary actions.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima recently launched the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative in Dutse, Jigawa, declaring that Nigeria is not just catching up with global standards but is set to surpass them. This initiative, introduced at the Yakubu Gowon NYSC Orientation Camp, aims to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in AI, blockchain, and other advanced technologies, in partnership with tech company Gluwa.

Shettima highlighted the importance of this program for Nigeria’s economic future, emphasizing its role in preparing the workforce for global competition and innovation. He praised Jigawa State’s role in adopting digital technology and outlined the federal government’s vision to create tech hubs across the nation, aligning with President Tinubu’s goal to revolutionize Nigeria’s tech landscape.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to transform Nigeria into a leading destination for technology outsourcing and integrate local talent with global expertise. Shettima also acknowledged Gluwa’s impact, including its empowerment of Aella Microfinance Bank, which has disbursed over ₦100 billion to two million Nigerians.

Jigawa Governor Umar Namadi supported the initiative, describing it as a significant opportunity for job creation and economic growth. He announced the creation of a new ICT and Digital Economy Agency in the state, aiming to position Jigawa as a key ICT hub in Nigeria.

Youths from the Middle Belt region of Nigeria have been urged to boycott the planned nationwide protest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Scheduled for Thursday, August 1, the protest aims to highlight the ongoing economic hardships and high inflation affecting Nigerians.

The coalition of 200 Middle Belt Youth Leaders and Ethnic Youth Leaders has criticized the protest, describing it as having hidden agendas and potential for inciting violence. Nasiru Jagaba, a prominent leader in the coalition, expressed concern that the protest is being driven by behind-the-scenes actors rather than by genuine grassroots dissatisfaction.

The coalition warned that the protest could lead to chaos and destabilization, with armed thugs potentially causing unrest. They emphasized that the economic challenges are inherited issues and should not be resolved through disruptive protests. Instead, they advocate for a peaceful approach to addressing the economic difficulties and suggest finding alternative ways to express their concerns.

Bello Turji, a notorious terrorist leader, recently accused Bello Matawalle, the current Minister of State for Defence and former governor of Zamfara State, of empowering terrorists during his governorship. Turji claimed that Matawalle’s amnesty program, which offered financial incentives and protection to bandits who surrendered their weapons, unintentionally strengthened criminal elements and led to an increase in banditry.

In a video released on July 18, Turji asserted that some bandits used the amnesty program to relocate to urban areas, where they now orchestrate criminal activities in rural regions. Turji also alleged that recovered arms and ammunition from bandits were stored at Government House, an accusation Matawalle has vehemently denied.

Matawalle’s supporters, the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, have dismissed Turji’s claims as “a tissue of lies” and “baseless.” They clarified that Government House does not have an armoury or any weapon storage facilities and defended Matawalle’s efforts against banditry as proactive and effective.

The Patriots emphasized that such accusations are part of a smear campaign and reaffirmed Matawalle’s commitment to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, focusing on national security and peace.

A viral video recently surfaced in which notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji accused Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence and former governor of Zamfara State, of supporting terrorists during his governorship. This allegation has intensified scrutiny of Matawalle’s tenure.

In response, the Citizens United Against Terrorism (CUAT) has raised serious concerns about Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, accusing him of having ties with bandit groups. CUAT’s spokesperson, Comr. Obinna Francis, criticized Lawal for allegedly failing to address the growing banditry in the state and for reportedly engaging in celebratory activities while security deteriorates.

Francis highlighted a controversial video that implicates Matawalle, questioning how Lawal’s spokesperson accessed the video first and suggesting possible collusion. He also criticized Lawal for neglecting his duties and demanded that the governor provide a detailed explanation and address the worsening security situation in Zamfara.

CUAT has called for a thorough investigation into Lawal’s actions and connections, stressing the need for transparency and effective measures to combat the escalating banditry.

Femi Otedola has praised Aliko Dangote, describing him as a “titan that God created specially for mankind.” Otedola’s remarks come amid ongoing issues between Dangote Refinery and Nigeria’s national oil regulator.

In a detailed post on July 23, 2024, Otedola urged the Federal Government to support local investors and visionary leaders like Dangote. He highlighted Dangote’s remarkable achievements, including the construction of the world’s largest single-train refinery and the second-largest sugar refinery. He also noted Dangote’s significant contributions to the fertilizer industry, which is set to surpass the largest plant in Qatar.

Otedola emphasized that Dangote is not only the largest private-sector employer in Nigeria but also a major taxpayer. He underscored the importance of recognizing and supporting local champions for national development and economic independence.

Otedola’s comments are in response to recent scrutiny of Dangote Refinery by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). The agency’s head, Farouk Ahmed, has accused Dangote Refinery of producing fuel with high sulfur levels and attempting to monopolize the oil industry, which could impact the country’s energy sector. In response, Dangote has pledged to halt his steel investments to avoid allegations of monopolistic practices.

Black Pelican Group, a leading provider of total interior solutions in Nigeria, celebrated its 20th anniversary with a launch event for a coffee table book and a commemorative campaign titled “20 & Timeless.” The event marked two decades of innovation and excellence in the Nigerian interior design industry.

Key Highlights:

• Founding and Growth: Since its establishment in May 2004, Black Pelican Group has been a major player in delivering high-quality interior solutions for both personal and commercial spaces.
• Anniversary Theme: “20 & Timeless” reflects the company’s enduring legacy and commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
• Leadership Comments:
  • Michael Owolabi, CEO: Expressed pride in the company’s achievements and its role in shaping Nigeria’s interior design sector. Emphasized the commitment to exceeding customer expectations and continuous learning.
  • Adetola Owolabi, COO: Highlighted the company’s comprehensive approach to interior solutions, from concept to completion, ensuring a seamless experience for clients.
• Special Guests:
  • Fola Adeola, Founder of GT Bank: Launched the coffee table book and praised Black Pelican’s dedication to excellence and team development.
• Event Attendees: Included directors, management, staff members, former staff, key clients, and other stakeholders who reflected on the company’s journey and successes.
• Subsidiaries: The company’s various subsidiaries, including IL Bagno, Bathrooms Direct, BPLogistix, Bagno Technik, and BPL Wellness, have contributed significantly to its success by providing diverse interior solutions.

Black Pelican Group continues to reaffirm its commitment to excellence and innovation in the Nigerian interior design industry.

Peter Obi recently tweeted that Nigeria will not achieve a “peaceful and secure society” until politics is viewed as a service to the people, criticizing current leadership for prioritizing personal luxuries over national development. This comment drew sharp criticism from the All Progressives Congress (APC), which accused Obi of inciting anger against President Bola Tinubu’s administration with what it described as false and manipulative narratives.

In a statement issued on July 23, 2024, APC spokesperson Felix Morka condemned Obi’s remarks, calling them an attempt to inflame public sentiment and mobilize outrage against the APC government. Morka argued that Obi’s claim that Nigeria’s economic difficulties stem from the nine years of APC leadership was a “revisionist” and “deliberately misleading” assessment.

The APC emphasized that economic challenges are a global issue and criticized Obi for not acknowledging the complexity of Nigeria’s economic problems. The party highlighted recent positive economic indicators, including over $20 billion in foreign investment, a record ₦6.52 trillion trade surplus in the first quarter of 2024, and a significant increase in foreign reserves. The APC also defended President Tinubu’s administration, citing efforts in infrastructure development, social welfare, agricultural advancements, and national security improvements.

The APC argued that Obi’s criticisms were politically motivated and overlooked the administration’s achievements and efforts to address the country’s economic challenges.

Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, has challenged Peter Obi to proceed with his defamation and libel charges, expressing no fear of any legal repercussions. Onanuga’s comments come after Obi threatened to sue him if he did not apologize and retract allegations suggesting Obi was instigating violence.

On July 23, 2024, Obi demanded that Onanuga apologize and retract his statements linking Obi to an impending mass protest. Onanuga had accused Obi of inciting unrest by making provocative comments about the Nigerian economy, insinuating that Obi’s words were meant to mobilize his supporters to destabilize the country. In a tweet, Onanuga alleged, “Peter Obi’s supporters are the people planning mayhem in Nigeria and that Obi should be held responsible for anarchy.”

Obi’s legal team responded, stating that Onanuga’s tweet damaged Obi’s reputation by falsely depicting him as someone who condones violence, contrary to his well-documented history of non-violence. The legal team described the publication as a calculated effort to demean and embarrass Obi.

In a letter to Onanuga, Obi’s legal team demanded a retraction and a public apology in four national newspapers and on Onanuga’s verified X account. Additionally, Obi sought ₦5 billion in damages for the embarrassment caused to him and his family.

Despite these demands, Onanuga remained defiant, tweeting, “I am still waiting for the letter from Peter Obi’s lawyer threatening a ₦5 billion suit and demanding an apology to Peter Obi over the planned ‘revolution’. Let me just tell Obi and his lawyer: I am not afraid of any legal action. We shall meet in court.”

The All Progressives Congress (APC) also criticized Obi, accusing him of inciting Nigerians against President Tinubu with manipulative and false narratives. The APC described Obi’s remarks on the economy as “an admixture of half-truths, blatant distortions and misinformation” aimed at stirring public outrage against the Tinubu administration. The party further accused Obi of hypocrisy, claiming it was unreasonable for him to expect Tinubu to achieve what he “failed miserably to accomplish in eight years as governor of Anambra State.”

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), stated that the planned protest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration is politically motivated. He made this remark on Tuesday while interacting with journalists after inspecting the Karshi to Apo Road construction project, which was awarded 13 years ago but remains unfinished.

Wike emphasized the need for patience, stating that the current administration is working hard to address the issues inherited from previous governments. He pointed out that the country is facing significant challenges and that it is unrealistic to expect immediate solutions.

He acknowledged that people are unhappy due to hunger and unemployment but asserted that the Tinubu administration is not responsible for the current unemployment levels. Wike criticized those planning the protests, describing them as political maneuvers aimed at gaining popularity ahead of elections.

“We are going to elections very soon; these are political gimmicks,” Wike said. He urged Nigerians to be patient with the government, believing that things will improve over time.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some sections of the country are planning a week-long protest over hunger and insecurity. While some groups and individuals have distanced themselves from the planned protest, others insist it must hold to draw attention to the sufferings of Nigerians and to urge the government and international community to take action.

The Nigerian Senate has passed the Finance Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which includes a significant change in the taxation of banks’ foreign exchange gains. This decision came after the consideration and adoption of the report presented by Sen. Sani Musa, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance.

The bill, initially proposed by President Bola Tinubu and read at the plenary session on July 17, 2024, aims to amend the Finance Act of 2023. One of the primary objectives of this amendment is to impose a Windfall Tax on banks’ foreign exchange gains. The levy charge for this tax has been increased from the previously proposed 50% to 70%.

The additional revenue generated from this windfall tax, estimated at ₦6.2 trillion, is intended to finance the Appropriation Amendment Bill. This move is expected to provide a substantial boost to the government’s finances, tapping into the profits banks make from foreign exchange transactions.

The Finance Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024, thus represents a significant shift in the taxation policy, targeting the financial gains of banks to support broader fiscal measures.