RMAFC Partners with NASDRA to Launch Space Technology-Driven Revenue Optimization Initiative

Maryam Aminu

In a bold move to modernize Nigeria’s revenue generation framework, the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has launched the implementation of the Presidential Initiative on Revenue Optimization and Digitalization through space technology.

The initiative, undertaken in collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASDRA), underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology to boost national revenue.

Speaking at the launch event at the RMAFC headquarters in Abuja, the Commission’s Chairman, Dr. Muhammed Bello Shehu, reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to innovative revenue mobilization strategies.

He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizes economic recovery through enhanced revenue generation, particularly by identifying new revenue streams.

“We stand at the threshold of a new era where innovation, creativity, and collaboration drive economic growth and progress,” Dr. Shehu stated.

“Traditional revenue generation methods are no longer sufficient to meet the evolving needs of our nation. As key stakeholders, we must embrace technology to unlock new opportunities for economic growth and development.”

He emphasized the importance of a strategic, technology-driven approach to revenue mobilization, stressing that efficient collection, accountability, and proper utilization of resources are crucial for national development.

The Director General of NASDRA, Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, highlighted the transformative potential of space technology in revenue generation.

He noted that with advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and space innovation, Nigeria could generate up to $50 billion annually while also strengthening national security.

Earlier, the Federal Commissioner representing Bauchi State in the Commission and Acting Chairman of the Mobilization and Diversification Committee, Engr. Muhammed Sani Baba, reiterated the significance of the initiative.

He called for the support of all stakeholders to ensure its successful implementation, aligning with President Tinubu’s directive to modernize revenue collection and utilization for national growth.

The event also featured a technical session led by NASDRA, showcasing how space science and technology can be leveraged to curb revenue leakages and create new revenue streams for the country.

By embracing cutting-edge technology, RMAFC and NASDRA are charting a new course in revenue optimization, positioning Nigeria for a more prosperous and sustainable economic future.

Historic Visit Signals New Dawn for Peace Between Bassa and Egbura Communities

Maryam Aminu

In a significant step toward reconciliation and peace, representatives of the displaced Bassa community in Toto Local Government Area (LGA) of Nasarawa State visited their ancestral land on Monday, January 27, 2025.

The visit marks a crucial milestone in the gradual return of peace to the region after years of communal crisis.

The delegation, consisting of traditional rulers, elders, youth leaders, and other key stakeholders, toured several villages, including Toto, Shishingenishi, Ugya Hogumba, Kuwa Bakete, Turunku, Kanyefu, Sofiyo, Gbawodi, and Mazhaga.

Their presence was met with warm reception from the Egbura, Gbagi, and other local tribes, symbolizing a renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence.

Speaking on behalf of the Bassa community, the delegation reaffirmed their dedication to fostering harmony and rebuilding relationships.

Citing the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind,” the community emphasized that forgiveness and dialogue are the only sustainable paths toward lasting peace.

“We recognize that rebuilding our communities and restoring peace in our local government is a collective effort that requires forgiveness, dialogue, and collaboration,” the statement read.

The Bassa community expressed appreciation for the efforts of Nasarawa State Governor Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, particularly for establishing a committee to facilitate the return of displaced Bassa people.

They urged both Bassa and Egbura communities to support the committee’s work and uphold the spirit of reconciliation.

Additionally, they acknowledged the critical role played by the military and other security agencies in ensuring the safety of the visiting delegation.

They called for continued engagement with security forces and support from international organizations to fast-track the resettlement and reconciliation process.

The visit has set the stage for the next crucial phase the full return of displaced Bassa people to their ancestral homes.

The community eagerly awaits an official announcement of a return date, viewing it as the beginning of a new chapter in their journey toward lasting peace and development.

As the Bassa and Egbura communities take this bold step towards healing, their shared commitment to peace signals a hopeful future for Toto LGA one built on mutual respect, unity, and progress.

“We are for peace!” the statement concluded.

Lagos Hotelier Arrested Over Alleged Sexual Abuse of Teenage Boys

Maryam Aminu

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested the owner of a popular hotel in the Bucknor, Isheri Osun area of Lagos over allegations of sexually abusing multiple teenage boys.

The arrest follows a complaint by the family of a 16-year-old secondary school student, who reportedly suffered severe psychological distress after revealing he had been assaulted.

According to the victim’s family, the teenager confided in his mother before the New Year, stating that he and four other students had been lured to the hotel under the pretense of participating in a TikTok event.

He alleged that the hotelier, identified as Macdon, sexually assaulted them and threatened them with death if they disclosed the incident.

Shortly after making this confession, the student began displaying signs of mental distress, prompting his parents to seek both spiritual and medical intervention. His father, Edozie Christian, a trader at Ladipo Auto Spare Parts Market, reported the case to the police at Isheri Osun Station, where the boy provided a statement. Another student later corroborated the allegations, telling detectives that Macdon had repeatedly assaulted them and offered ₦5,000 as hush money.

Medical examinations conducted at the Mirabel Centre, a sexual assault referral facility, reportedly confirmed signs of abuse. However, the teenager’s condition worsened, leading his family to seek further treatment at a psychiatric hospital, where he was diagnosed with trauma.

Initially, police efforts to apprehend Macdon were unsuccessful, as he allegedly avoided arrest while his lawyer engaged with law enforcement.

The case was subsequently transferred to Zone 2, Onikan, Lagos. Reports indicate that some influential individuals attempted to obstruct the investigation, leading to delays in the suspect’s arrest.

Upon learning of these developments, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Adegoke Fayoade ordered a team of detectives to apprehend the suspect. When confronted, the teenager, still experiencing psychological distress, reportedly pointed at Macdon and identified him as his abuser.

Further investigations revealed inconsistencies in police records and medical reports, raising concerns about possible tampering with evidence.

The police have assured the public that a thorough investigation is ongoing, and the suspect remains in detention pending further inquiries.

Kogi NAPWPD Holds End-Of- Year Get-together For PWDS

By Ishaq Dan-Imam, Lokoja

The members of Kogi State Chapter of the national association of persons with physical disabilities (NAPWPD), held a get-together at the state rehabilitation Centre in Lokoja, on Saturday, where hordes of persons with physical disabilities across the state had a PWDS family dinner.

The PWDS provided the assorted meals from their pockets, while the best female cooks among them displayed their cookery to the admiration of guests and fellow-PWDs.

The visibly excited members were served assorted meals, with musical interludes, to herald the beginning of a new year amid growing concerns on their poor living conditions, as persons with special needs in the State struggle to make ends meet amid economic depression.

It was a colourful Saturday event where the grandeur of NAPWPD membership as well as its glorious achievement came to the fore, while gaily dressed PWDS were fed to satiety, as many devoured the sumptuous meals, Chicken and pile of fries with a voracious appetite. They sang songs of praises and gratitude to God for keeping members alive in spite of the myriad of challenges of livelihood in a depressed economy.

In a laconic speech laden with convictions and hopes, Kogi State chairman of NAPWPD, Comrade Destiny Hassan Sule, decried the ‘pathetic plight’ of NAPWPD members in the State in regard to poverty, homelessness, illiteracy, unemployment, food inflation, family rejection, the lack of mobility aids and absence of inclusive transport system, which highlight the burden of disability on members, with the increasing economic difficulties faced by NAPWPD members among other challenges of life.

Comrade Sule says members of the association can only make progress in the society with increased disability advocacy for enhanced financial inclusion through collective efforts, as he urged the members to suggest new ideas that could move the association and its members to greater heights, while Kogi NAPWPD plans to make the yearly get-together bigger and attractive to its members and other disability clusters in the State.

“We in the EXCO believe that a tree cannot make a forest, and that makes it expedient for us to work together in unison to achieve our common purpose of mutual love as a progressive group of the downtrodden who suffers the most of the leadership failures in our society.

“We owe it a duty to ourselves, to love, support and engrain ourselves with entertainment, refreshments and counseling to make ourselves happier, while we take stocks of the events that affect us in the previous year with a stronger hope for better years ahead.

“I urge all of us to be our brothers keepers as we renew hope for a better and prosperous tomorrow as we strive to keep the ideals of NAPWPD Nigeria alive with greater optimism,” Destiny said.

The national treasurer of NAPWPD, Mr. Daniel Ibrahim Arome, who represented the national President, Comrade Mohammed Ridwan Abdullahi, at the event, said the Kogi State chapter of NAPWPD had become a shiny example to other state chapters for being the first to break even with the end-of-year get-together to drink and wine together in a spirit of love and togetherness.

Arome said the national Secretariat of NAPWPD Nigeria was proud of the ‘laudable’ Get-together initiated by the Destiny Hassan led exco in the State, adding that Kogi NAPWPD members are a force and the first to be reckoned with such milestone.

“This achievement is a testimony to your hard work and we celebrate this milestone as we urge NAPWPD members across Nigeria to be consistently strong and united behind their leader as we crave for socio-economic improvement in our lives, and NAPWPD leadership at the national level is working hard with the state leaderships to change the narrative of neglect and despondency in the lives of persons with physical disabilities in Nigeria.

“The national President sends his regards and best wishes to Kogi NAPWPD on this auspicious occasion, while looking forward to supporting your initiative in the best possible way.”

There were goodwill messages from the state JONAPWD Chairman, Hon. Solomon yahaya, a Lokoja-based PWD medical practitioner, Dr Samuel Alhassan, and a PWD-friendly police officer, Mr. Abel Osemwingie Isaac, from Edo state who is a popular friend of PWDS in the State and married to a female PWD activist, Mrs Deborah Waniko, the state NAPWPD Secretary, and staff of Kogi State office for Disability Affairs, (KOSODA) among other dignitaries who graced the colourful event.

Police Arrest Lagos Lawyer for Forgery of Documents

Maryam Aminu

The Nigeria Police Force has apprehended Barrister Chinwe Onuoha, a Lagos-based lawyer, over allegations of document forgery to secure a bank facility.

The arrest took place on January 22, 2025, in Ikorodu, Lagos State. Barrister Onuoha is accused of forging a lease agreement for a property located at Teachers Estate, Ikorodu, which she reportedly submitted to the Bank of Industry to obtain a loan for her pure water production business.

Officers of the Special Fraud Unit (SFU), who conducted the operation, disclosed that the lawyer had repeatedly ignored invitations to answer the allegations. After several failed attempts to secure her presence, the SFU tracked her down to Ikorodu.

Barrister Chinwe Onuoha

According to an eyewitness, the lawyer tried to flee into a court premises to evade arrest but was intercepted by security personnel at the gate and subsequently apprehended on the road around 7:30 p.m.

The Commissioner of Police for the Special Fraud Unit, Ayo Omodeinde, confirmed the arrest.

He stated that the complaint, filed in June 2024, alleged that Barrister Onuoha forged a lease agreement, including the signatures of her landlady, Ngozi Uzoma, and a witness, Titilayo Opeyemi. The forged document was then allegedly submitted to the Bank of Industry to obtain the loan.

“She is currently in our custody for interrogation, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the facts of the matter,” said Omodeinde.

The case has sparked public interest as authorities continue to investigate the allegations.

Olawande Challenges Journalists to Lead the Fight Against Fake News

Maryam Aminu

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has called on journalists across Nigeria to take a proactive stance in combating the spread of fake news. Describing it as a grave threat to democracy and a significant factor undermining public trust in the media, the Minister urged media practitioners to champion integrity and professionalism in their reporting.

Comrade Olawande made this appeal in Abuja during a courtesy visit by representatives of the Female Journalists Network to his office.

In his remarks, the Minister stressed the importance of ethical journalism in safeguarding democracy. “Fake news continues to erode the foundations of our democratic process. If immediate and decisive action is not taken, the progress we’ve achieved over the years may be undone. Media professionals must detach emotions from their work and adhere to the highest ethical standards,” he stated.

The Minister also emphasized the need for ongoing sensitization efforts to educate journalists on the dangers of misinformation, urging media organizations and regulatory bodies to strengthen mechanisms to ensure accountability.

5th from the left is : Comrade Ayodele Olawande, Minister, Federal Ministry of Youth Development in a group photograph with the group while paying courtesy visit to him by the group in his office in Abuja.

Speaking on behalf of the Female Journalists Network, Mr. Daniel Black highlighted the group’s dedication to promoting social development initiatives.

He announced their planned participation in the 63rd Commission for Social Development, taking place from 10th to 14th February, as part of their efforts to amplify the voices of Nigerian civil society organizations on the global stage.

“Our consortium is committed to addressing key social issues such as poverty eradication, women’s inclusion, and other critical areas. Platforms like the United Nations Social Development workshop offer us opportunities to drive these conversations forward,” Black said.

He called on government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to collaborate with the network, emphasizing the need for joint efforts in tackling pressing social challenges. “We encourage MDAs to participate in the upcoming program, share their insights, and contribute to actionable reports on Nigeria’s development challenges. Together, we can identify effective strategies to move the nation forward,” he added.

In her response, Hajia Amina Dauran, Director of the Network for Social Mobilization at the Ministry, commended the Female Journalists Network for their initiative.

She expressed the Ministry’s readiness to partner with the group to advance social development projects and enhance collaborative efforts aimed at addressing societal issues.

Nigeria, Bangladesh Partner to Boost Youth Empowerment Initiatives

Maryam Aminu

In a move to strengthen ties and empower young people, Nigeria and Bangladesh have pledged to collaborate on youth empowerment initiatives, recognizing the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future.

The commitment was reaffirmed during a meeting in Abuja between the Bangladesh High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency Masudur Rahman, and the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya.

Speaking on behalf of the Ministry, Mr. Olusanya emphasized the government’s dedication to harnessing the potential of Nigerian youth for economic growth and national development.

“We are committed to initiatives that enhance the potential of Nigerian youth. The future lies in their hands, and we must empower them for a better tomorrow. Youth who are not trained can become a burden to society, and we are determined to prevent this. A well-empowered youth population is essential for Nigeria’s progress,” Olusanya stated.

He added that the Ministry sees great value in leveraging Bangladesh’s expertise to achieve its youth empowerment goals.

2nd from left is Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, the Permanent Secretary who represented the Minister of Youth Development, 3rd from left Masudur Rahman, during a courtesy visit by the government of Bangladesh to the Minister in his office.

Bangladesh’s High Commissioner, His Excellency Masudur Rahman, reiterated his country’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria, particularly in areas of youth development.

He emphasized the importance of economic diversification and the need to tap into the potential of Nigerian youth at home and abroad.

“Nigerian youth are key to the country’s economic diversification efforts. Through this collaboration, we aim to create platforms for knowledge sharing, research exchange, and skills development in areas such as agriculture, technology, and business,” Rahman said.

He also pointed to Bangladesh’s success in economic diversification as a model Nigeria could adapt to expand its export base and promote value addition across various sectors.

This partnership marks a significant step toward fostering bilateral relations between Nigeria and Bangladesh, creating opportunities for youth empowerment, knowledge transfer, and sustainable economic growth.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, giving his address on behalf the Honourable Minister.

UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu commended the effort of the management of 21st Century Open University USA as was licensed by World Accreditation Commission USA

World Accreditation Commission USA which is an approved accreditor by the Government of the United States of America and is Internationally chartered and incorporated under the law of the government of the United States of America at First State ( State of Delaware) with Chartered file number 5378647 It’s also an Official Partner of UNESCO in collaboration with the International Association of Quality Assurance in Higher education (QAHE) in the USA received various Global Network Joints Partnerships status from The International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE in Spain Represented by the Board of Quality Standard) as one of its official global members and agencies with other International various partnerships worldwide
Also partner with International Association of Asia Universities and Pacific ( IAUP) and others world wide

The 21st Century Open University is an initiative that aligns with Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu’s vision for expanding access to quality education as was appointed as World Grand President of the 21st Century Open University USA where Dr Amb. Roberto Maurice Robert, LFICWLS is the Executive President of the 21st Century Open University USA

Key Features of the 21st Century Open University

  1. Flexible and Accessible: Offers flexible online and distance learning programs, making education accessible to people worldwide.
  2. Innovative Curriculum: Provides a modern, industry-relevant curriculum that prepares students for the challenges of the 21st century.
  3. Global Reach: Connects students, educators, and professionals from diverse backgrounds, fostering global understanding and collaboration.
  4. Affordability: Offers affordable tuition fees, making quality education accessible to a broader audience.
  5. Lifelong Learning: Supports lifelong learning by providing opportunities for continuous education and skill development.

Benefits of the 21st Century Open University

  1. Increased Access to Education: Expands access to quality education, especially for underserved communities.
  2. Improved Employability: Enhances employability by providing students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge.
  3. Global Networking Opportunities: Fosters global connections and collaborations, enriching students’ educational experiences.
  4. Personal Growth and Development: Supports personal growth and development through lifelong learning opportunities.

The 21st Century Open University has the potential to transform the education landscape, making quality education more accessible, affordable, and inclusive.

Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc in USA, present Certificate of Recognition to Nerho International College, Kenya as a Member of Worldwide Official Partners Constituent Campuses

According to the News from the Office of the Vice Chancellor Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc in USA

Nerho International College, Kenya have been presented the
Certificate of Recognition as a Member of Worldwide Official Partners Constituent Campuses of Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc in USA as stated below:

To All Whom these Letters Shall Come, Greeting:

In recognition of Superior academic quality, organization integrity and like –mindedness of mission and as documented and described by a signed memorandum of agreement between the Institutions,

Whereas the World Grand Board of Trustees has approved with recognition and ordered the honoring of certain distinguished official partners throughout the world with the title of Certificate of Recognition as a Member of Worldwide Official Partners Constituent Campuses

We, hereby acknowledges fully and formally that
Nerho International College, Kenya

as an Official Partner of Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc in USA, official partners’ constituent campuses worldwide and online operation that have been resolved to established a partnership for CREDIT TRANSFER, International conferences, seminar, workshop, training and research and teaching at all level of studies for global research network and international quality assurance network and other International activities worldwide.

With all The International Rights, Honors, Privileges pertaining to this Award by Virtues of various Global Network Joints of Accreditations and Recognitions Status in the world at large.

Therefore, let it be known by these presents that Nerho International College, Kenya

has been conferred this International Prestigious Award of Certificate of Recognition as a Member of Worldwide Official Partners Constituent Campuses of Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc in USA, official partners’ constituent campuses worldwide and online operation

.

In witness whereof, we hereby subscribed our names officially with our signatures under the official seal of the University and conferred in the Year of Our Lord on January, 20th 2025

And signed by the below Principal officers:

Registrar and World Grand Secretary, Prof Sir Abhiram Kukshreshtha

Executive Dean and Director Academic and Research Development, Prof. Sir Vishwa Nath Maurya

The Vice Chancellor Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc in USA , H.E, UNESCO LAUREATE PROF. SIR. BASHIRU AREMU

NCC Approves Tariff Adjustments for Telecom Operators in Response to Market Dynamics

Maryam Aminu

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved tariff adjustment requests from telecom operators, in line with its regulatory authority under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA). The adjustments, capped at a maximum of 50% of current tariff rates, come as a response to the changing market conditions and rising operational costs faced by telecom companies across the country.

While some operators had requested increases of over 100%, the NCC’s decision to cap the adjustment at 50% reflects the Commission’s commitment to balancing the financial sustainability of the telecom sector with the need to protect consumers.

The approved adjustments will be in line with the tariff bands set out in the 2013 NCC Cost Study, and will be implemented in strict adherence to the recently released NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.

Tariff rates for telecom services have remained unchanged since 2013, despite increasing operational costs for network providers. The adjustments are intended to address the growing gap between operational expenses and existing tariff rates, while ensuring the continued provision of quality services to consumers.

Importantly, the adjustments are designed to enhance the ability of operators to invest in infrastructure and innovation, which will ultimately lead to improved network quality, better customer service, and expanded coverage.

The decision follows extensive consultations with key stakeholders across the public and private sectors, ensuring that the views of both consumers and operators were considered.

The NCC remains committed to striking a balance that safeguards consumers’ interests while supporting the long-term sustainability of the telecommunications industry and its vital ecosystem, including thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers.

Recognizing the financial challenges faced by Nigerian households and businesses, the NCC has mandated that operators implement the tariff changes transparently and fairly.

Operators will also be required to educate and inform the public about the new rates and demonstrate measurable improvements in service delivery.

The NCC continues to prioritize the growth of a resilient, innovative, and inclusive telecommunications sector that benefits all Nigerians. By fostering an environment that supports both consumers and operators, the Commission is working to ensure the continued growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.