Author: Val Kosi

EFCC Boss: Procurement Fraud Fuels Nigeria’s Corruption Woes

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has delivered a stark assessment of Nigeria’s corruption crisis, declaring that procurement and contract fraud are the nation’s most significant challenges. Speaking at a meeting with the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) led by its Director-General, Adebowale Adedokun, Olukoyede emphasized that these illicit activities permeate the public sector, hindering development and undermining public trust.

“In the EFCC, we grapple with both private and public sector fraud,” Olukoyede stated. “Within the public sector, a domain rife with challenges for Nigeria, we’ve observed that contract and procurement fraud constitute a staggering 90 percent of the overall corruption cases. This encompasses a wide range of deceitful practices, including commingling of funds, contract splitting, and various other forms of manipulation.”

Read Also: Nigerian Airlines to Receive Boost from Afreximbank Aircraft Financing

He further lamented the devastating impact of these corrupt practices on the nation’s progress: “Infrastructure development and other crucial aspects of national development are severely hampered by the pervasive issue of contract and procurement fraud.” Olukoyede stressed the importance of collaborative efforts between the EFCC and the BPP, highlighting the need for enhanced cooperation in project implementation and monitoring.

Adedokun, in his address, underscored the BPP’s commitment to a renewed focus on integrity and transparency. He emphasized that the bureau, under his leadership, is dedicated to streamlining procurement processes and minimizing opportunities for corruption.

The EFCC’s credibility has taken a significant hit in recent months. The abrupt postponement of a highly anticipated media chat scheduled for January 19th further fueled public speculation and raised concerns about the commission’s transparency and accountability.

While the EFCC plays a crucial role in combating financial crime, it is imperative that the commission operates within the bounds of the law and respects the fundamental rights of all citizens.

January 21, 2025
Anambra NMA: Man Who Killed EFCC Officer Not a Medical Doctor

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has refuted claims that Joshua Ikechukwu, the alleged killer of an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) operative, is a medical doctor.

The EFCC, on Sunday, accused Ikechukwu of killing Aminu Salisu, an assistant superintendent officer (ASO), during an operation in Anambra State. According to the agency, Ikechukwu is involved in internet fraud and deals in coding and online medical supplies of questionable authenticity.

Despite these allegations, several reports identified Ikechukwu as a medical doctor allegedly affiliated with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) in Nnewi, prompting clarification from the NMA.

In a statement on Monday, Obiaeli Ifeanyi, secretary of NMA’s Anambra chapter, categorically denied Ikechukwu’s membership in the medical profession, attributing the misrepresentation to his dealings in medical supplies.

“Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu is NOT a member of NMA Awka Zone, and no member has been able to identify such a name as either a colleague or member of NMA,” the statement read.

“Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu is NOT a Medical Doctor (not even an academic doctor) as widely published by the media though he deals in medical supplies and has been addressed as a Doctor.

“This calls for concern about the flagrant abuse of the title Medical Doctor by imposters and quacks, dragging the image of the revered medical profession to the mud.”

The NMA also called on the public and media outlets to refrain from addressing Ikechukwu as a doctor, stressing the importance of preserving the integrity of the medical profession.

The association further demanded a public retraction from the EFCC and media organizations that published reports falsely attributing the suspect’s identity to the medical profession.

January 21, 2025
Tinubu Appoints Zahrah Audu as PEBEC Director General

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Zahrah Audu as the new Director General (DG) of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC).

The appointment was announced in a statement by George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, on Monday.

PEBEC, established to eliminate bureaucratic and legislative hurdles and enhance Nigeria’s ease of doing business ranking, is poised for a strategic transformation under Audu’s leadership.

“Audu’s appointment aligns with the president’s vision to invigorate Nigeria’s economic landscape,” Akume said.

Zahrah Audu, an entrepreneur and technology expert, brings a wealth of experience in business development, innovation, and investment promotion to her new role. She replaces Jumoke Oduwole, now the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment.

The new DG confirmed her appointment via LinkedIn, sharing her enthusiasm to drive PEBEC’s objectives.

Audu holds a background in software engineering and a business management degree from a prestigious UK institution. Before her appointment, she served as the Technical Adviser on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the Office of the Vice President.

In her new capacity, Audu will lead PEBEC’s “Invest in Nigeria” campaign and coordinate the Existing Foreign Direct Investors Roundtable Forum, initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s position as a top-tier investment destination.

Beyond her professional achievements, Audu is a noted philanthropist, actively engaging in initiatives to uplift underprivileged communities. Through her advocacy, she has fostered relationships with international organizations and governments, pushing for policies that expand economic opportunities for Nigerians.

January 21, 2025
Nigeria Set to Overhaul Tax System in July, Aiming to Boost Revenue and Stabilize Naira

The Nigerian government is on track to overhaul its complex tax system in July, according to Taiwo Oyedele, head of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee. This ambitious reform package aims to simplify tax collection, reduce the tax burden on businesses, and ultimately boost the country’s tax-to-GDP ratio, one of the lowest globally.

The core objective of these reforms is to streamline Nigeria’s intricate tax landscape. Currently, businesses and individuals grapple with a labyrinth of over 60 different taxes and levies. The government intends to consolidate these into a more manageable six, significantly reducing the administrative burden and enhancing compliance.

“Those reforms are transformational,” Oyedele emphasized during a recent public address. “They keep me excited. The reason why I have the energy to keep going is because of the possibilities I see in those reforms, which haven’t been done since independence.”

Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio currently languishes at a mere 10.8%, significantly lower than the average for comparable economies. This low revenue generation hinders the government’s ability to fund critical infrastructure projects and social programs. The reforms aim to rectify this by increasing the tax-to-GDP ratio to at least 18% by 2026.

Nigerian Governors Reject VAT Hike, Advocate for Equitable Distribution

One of the key drivers behind these reforms is to address the persistent instability of the Nigerian Naira. Oyedele highlighted that Nigerian businesses are currently compelled to pay taxes worth over $3.5 billion annually in foreign currency, primarily US dollars.

“If I say to you that in Nigeria today, Nigerian businesses are being asked to pay levies and fees and taxes in dollars worth over $3.5 billion a year,” Oyedele explained, “You send your people to the forex market to look for dollars to pay the government. It does not add $1 to your supply, but it adds $3.5 billion to your demand. We are fixing that.”

By eliminating these foreign currency tax obligations, the reforms aim to reduce pressure on the Naira and stabilize the foreign exchange market.

While the reforms hold significant promise, they have not been without their detractors. Some Northern leaders have voiced opposition to the proposed changes, calling for wider consultations.

Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to implementing the reforms. Legislation is expected to be passed this quarter, followed by a period of preparation for implementation, with the official launch anticipated in July.

The success of these tax reforms will have a profound impact on the Nigerian economy. By simplifying the tax system, reducing the burden on businesses, and increasing revenue generation, the government aims to create a more conducive environment for economic growth and development.

January 21, 2025
Ajaokuta Steel Project: Lawmakers Grill Minister Over Fresh Audit, Budget Irregularities

The Joint National Assembly Committee on Steel Development has expressed serious concerns over glaring irregularities within the Ministry of Steel Development’s 2024 budget. During a recent budget defense session, committee members, led by co-chairperson Zainab Gimba, highlighted significant issues, including allocations for vague “capacity-building programs” and “skills training initiatives” with no discernible evidence of execution or impact.

Gimba expressed grave concerns about the potential for these funds to be misappropriated.

“A first-hand appraisal of the 2024 submissions reveals budget infractions, such as funds allocated for programs that lack clear documentation of execution,” Gimba stated.

“Administrative and recurrent costs have escalated significantly without corresponding improvements in ministry activities or outputs, raising serious questions about mismanagement or misallocation of funds.”

The committee members were particularly alarmed by the discovery of several projects, especially those related to the long-awaited completion of the Ajaokuta Steel plant, that appear to have violated the Fiscal Responsibility Act, a cornerstone of financial governance in Nigeria.

Citing breaches of the Public Procurement Act, Gimba pointed to instances of non-competitive bidding processes and inflated contract costs, strongly suggesting a lack of transparency and accountability. “There are ghost projects, a direct violation of Nigeria’s Financial Regulations,” she stressed, emphasizing the need for a thorough and independent forensic audit of all 2024 expenditures and contracts.

Furthermore, the committee expressed deep dissatisfaction with the Ministry’s 2025 budget allocation, where a staggering 57.2% of the total budget is earmarked for personnel costs. This leaves a mere 34.6% for capital expenditure, a woefully inadequate sum for modernizing the critical steel sector.

“Our committee is deeply displeased with the Ministry’s consistent communication failures and lack of sufficient information provided during budget defenses,” Gimba asserted. “If the legislature fails to rigorously scrutinize budgets, government accountability will be severely undermined. We will utilize all our statutory powers to ensure compliance.”

Echoing these concerns, Committee Chairman Patrick Ndubueze emphasized the paramount importance of a robust steel sector for driving Nigeria’s industrial growth. “Nigeria cannot progress without a solid steel industry,” he declared. “We must prioritize capital investments over salaries. Repeating past mistakes is simply unacceptable.”

Read Also: ICYMI: Senate Projects ₦100 Trillion Budget for 2026 Amid Revenue Challenges

A key point of contention during the hearing was the Ministry’s decision to initiate a fresh technical audit of the Ajaokuta Steel plant despite three previous audit reports. Lawmakers expressed skepticism about the necessity of yet another audit, demanding clarity on why the findings of the existing reports had not been implemented.

Minister of Steel Development Abubakar Audu defended the decision, arguing that the previous audits, conducted over a decade ago by different companies, no longer accurately reflected the current realities of the project. He highlighted the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Russia for the plant’s completion, stating that the Russian consortium, in collaboration with Nigerian engineers, would conduct a new technical audit.

“The tripartite MoU was signed in Moscow with Messrs, Tyazhpromexport (TPE), the Russian firm that originally built the Ajaokuta steel plant, and consortium partners,” Audu explained. “The consortium will conduct a fresh technical audit, a report of which will be submitted to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval before work on the plant can commence.”

However, lawmakers remained unconvinced. “You haven’t conducted the technical audit, yet you have already arrived for $2 billion,” questioned Committee member Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. “How did you arrive at this figure before completing the audit? We have three existing reports on previous audits carried out on Ajaokuta Steel. Why can’t we implement these existing reports? Why do we always sign new ones?”

In response, Minister Audu acknowledged that the existing audits were conducted over a decade ago and by different entities, stating, “The reports will have to be bankable; we are involved with new partners, separate from those who worked on the existing reports.” He reassured the committee that the government had full confidence in the Russian consortium’s ability to effectively contribute to completing the Ajaokuta Steel plant.

The hearing concluded with the Minister promising to address all the concerns raised by the committee regarding the Ministry’s 2024 budget performance and its projections for 2025. This episode underscores the critical role of legislative oversight in ensuring responsible and transparent government spending, particularly in crucial sectors like steel development, which are vital for Nigeria’s economic growth and industrialization.

January 21, 2025
Katsina Police Arrest SIM Swap Fraud Syndicate and Child Murder Suspects
The Katsina State Police Command has apprehended four individuals suspected of engaging in illegal SIM card swapping and bank fraud. The arrests, announced on Thursday, followed a targeted operation based on credible intelligence.

According to Abubakar Aliyu, the police spokesperson, the suspects used sophisticated techniques to fraudulently access victims’ bank accounts after illegally swapping their SIM cards.

“The suspected notorious fraudsters who specialized in swapping SIM cards of unsuspecting members of the public to fraudulently use sophisticated tactics to withdraw money from their victim’s bank accounts,” Aliyu said during a press briefing.

The police recovered 32 SIM cards from the suspects and revealed their identities:

Muhammad Murtala, alias Bomboy, age 20, of Rahamawa quarters.

Muhammad Umar, alias Dogon Baba, age 33, of Sabuwar Unguwa quarters.

Muhammad Quraish, age 29, of Sabuwar Kasuwa quarters.

Emmanuel Ogunwoye, alias OG, age 25, a bank staff member.

The suspects reportedly confessed to the crime during interrogation.

“The command, acting on credible intelligence, launched an operation to track down the syndicate. After a thorough investigation, four suspects were arrested and confessed to the commission of the offense,” Aliyu added.

Arrests in 12-Year-Old’s Abduction and Murder

In a separate case, the Katsina police also arrested two individuals for the abduction and murder of Salihu Sadi, a 12-year-old boy in Kaita Local Government Area.

Aliyu disclosed that the suspects, identified as Muttaka Garba and Yusuf Usman, kidnapped the boy while he was running an errand for his mother.

The suspects demanded a ransom of ₦25 million from the victim’s parents but tragically killed the boy during negotiations.

“These suspects callously took the life of an innocent child after making financial demands from his family,” Aliyu said.
January 18, 2025
Osun: Adeleke Imposes Curfew on Ifon and Ilobu Over Renewed Land Dispute

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew on the Ifon and Ilobu communities in Orolu and Irepodun Local Government Areas following renewed clashes over a land dispute.

The two communities have reportedly conflicted since 2023, with tensions escalating in recent days.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Kolapo Alimi, the state’s commissioner for information and public enlightenment, announced the curfew, which is in effect from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. daily.

“Sequel to an outbreak of yet another communal misunderstanding between Ifon and Ilobu communities, the State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has ordered that a curfew be imposed on the two warring communities with immediate effect,” the statement read.

“To forestall further escalation of the crisis, the governor has approved that a 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. curfew be imposed.”

The state government has also deployed security operatives to maintain order and prevent further violence in the affected areas.

Alimi disclosed that the state government will establish a committee of stakeholders to address the dispute and seek a permanent resolution.

The committee will include representatives from both communities, heads of security agencies, the council of Obas, and other relevant bodies.

“The state government is committed to resolving this issue permanently and calls on the indigenes of Ifon and Ilobu to cooperate fully in the process,” Alimi said.

The commissioner also issued a stern warning to those inciting violence.

“Anyone caught instigating further violence, knowingly or unknowingly, would be made to face the full wrath of the law,” he added.

January 18, 2025
Ondo Declares Friday Public Holiday Ahead of Local Government Elections

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has declared Friday, January 17, 2025, a public holiday to enable residents to participate in the upcoming local government elections.

The Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) has scheduled the elections to take place on Saturday, January 18, 2025, across the state’s 18 local government areas.

In a statement issued by Ebenezer Adeniyan, the governor’s chief press secretary, the holiday is aimed at allowing citizens to travel to their respective local government areas to cast their votes.

“The local government election in Ondo State has been scheduled by the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) to hold on Saturday, 18th of January 2025,” the statement read.

“To this end, the Ondo state government has declared Friday, 17th of January 2025, as a work-free day for public servants in the state to enable them to travel to their various communities to exercise their civic responsibilities.”

Governor Aiyedatiwa urged all citizens, stakeholders, and political parties to ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process.

“Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa urges all stakeholders to ensure a free, fair, and peaceful local government election across the state,” the statement added.

January 18, 2025
Enugu State Partners with Landmark Africa Group to Revamp Nike Lake Resort

The Enugu State Government has signed a landmark deal with the Landmark Africa Group to transform the iconic Nike Lake Resort into a premier destination for tourism, business, and hospitality.

The agreement, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), grants Landmark the management and operational responsibilities for the resort. As part of the deal, the state government is contributing to the resort as an asset, while Landmark will invest ₦10 billion in the first phase of the project to restore the facility to its former glory.

Governor Peter Mbah described the partnership as a significant step towards achieving his administration’s goal of growing Enugu’s economy to $30 billion within six years.

“Landmark Group is a known name in the hospitality sub-sector. Your reputation and experience precede you. So, I was glad when I became aware that you indicated interest to come and manage and run the Nike Lake Resort,” Mbah said during the signing ceremony at the Government House in Enugu.

He emphasized the importance of the Nike Lake Resort to the state’s tourism and economic development, describing it as “iconic” and integral to the administration’s vision of making Enugu a premier destination for investment and tourism.

Governor Mbah reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing the necessary infrastructure to support the partnership.

“This year alone, we have earmarked ₦800 billion to provide various forms of infrastructure – physical, social, and digital. We are spending hugely to ensure that this place becomes the premier destination for investment, business, tourism, and living,” he said.

He highlighted the ongoing dualisation of the Enugu-Opi-Nsukka Road, a project aimed at boosting ease of doing business and attracting more investors to the state.

Paul Onwuanibe, Founder and CEO of Landmark Africa Group, expressed excitement about the partnership, praising the governor’s efforts in improving infrastructure and security in Enugu.

“I know this is one of the states that not only has the position as a good governance state but also one that has made great progress in a short period under this administration. We want to be greatly part of it and part of that transition that takes Nike Lake to its past glory,” Onwuanibe said.

He assured that the company’s investment would bring significant economic benefits to the state, including job creation, increased tax revenue, and a boost in tourism, with a target of bringing two million visitors annually to Enugu.

“We intend to invest over ₦10 billion in the first phase of the partnership. From the employment perspective, supply chain and value chain improvements, tax contributions, and increased international visitors, this will be a big win for Enugu State,” Onwuanibe added.

January 18, 2025
FCT Minister Wike Revokes 568 Land Allocations Over Unpaid Fees

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revoked the allocation of 568 plots of land in Maitama II, Cadastral Zone A10, Abuja, citing non-payment of Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) fees.

The announcement, made through a public notice issued by the FCT Administration (FCTA), stated that the affected allottees had failed to meet payment obligations despite the expiration of a grace period.

According to the notice, the revocation aligns with Section 28 of the Land Use Act of 1978, which authorizes the withdrawal of land allocations when the terms of the grant are violated.

“The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) wishes to inform the allottee(s)/title holder(s) of plot(s) of land in Maitama II, Cadastral Zone A10, Abuja, who have failed to pay for their Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) bills after the expiration of the grace period granted by the Honourable Minister, Federal Capital Territory, that their Right of Occupancy to the land/property has been withdrawn, according to the provisions of Section 28 of the Land Use Act of 1978 for contravention of the terms of the grant which obligated the title/interest holders to settle all bills,” the notice read.

The FCTA clarified that the decision only affects those who had not made full payments by January 15, 2025, allowing compliant allottees to retain their allocations.

“The general public is, however, invited to note that allottees/title holders who have completed their payments on or before 15/01/2025 are not affected by this publication,” the notice added.

For transparency, the FCTA has published the names of the affected allottees on its official websites, including the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS) portal.

“For ease of reference, the names of the allottees/title holders whose titles have been withdrawn are: For further information, kindly visit AGIS Website: https://agis.fcta.gov.ng/ or FCTA Website: www.fcta.gov.ng,” the notice concluded.

January 18, 2025