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No Going Back on January 1 Tax Law Commencement – Tinubu

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  President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday said the implementation of the new tax laws, including those enacted on June 26, 2025, and the remaining acts scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026, will take effect as planned. In a statement he personally signed, Tinubu said the reforms represent “a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation” for the country. The President clarified that the new laws are not intended to increase taxes, but to support a structural reset, drive harmonisation, and protect dignity while strengthening the social contract. He urged all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, which he said is now “firmly in the delivery stage,” adding that no substantial issue has been identified that warrants a disruption of the reform process. “Absolute trust is built over time through making the right decisions, not through premature, reactive measures,” the statement added. Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to due process and the integrity of enacted laws, pledging to work with the National Assembly to resolve any issues promptly. He assured Nigerians that the government would continue to act in the overriding public interest to ensure a tax system that promotes prosperity and shared responsibility. PUNCH Online had earlier reported that following a high-level meeting with Tinubu on Friday, December 26, 2025, the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, confirmed that the final implementation phase—specifically covering the Nigeria Tax Act and the Nigeria Tax Administration Act—is firmly on schedule. According to Oyedele, the decision to proceed is rooted in the “pro-people” nature of the laws, which are strategically engineered to shift the tax burden away from the vulnerable. The reforms promise a significant economic cushion, with the government projecting that nearly 98% of Nigerian workers and 97% of small businesses will either be fully exempt from taxes or see their liabilities drastically reduced.

Dangote Unveils 10-day Credit Facility for Petrol Station Owners

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  The Dangote Group has announced a 10-day credit facility backed by a bank guarantee for petrol station owners and dealers, alongside free direct delivery and other incentives, as part of a new supply arrangement. The company disclosed this in a statement posted on its official X handle on Tuesday, inviting petrol station operators across the country to register to benefit from the offer. According to the statement, participating dealers will enjoy “a 10-day credit facility backed by a bank guarantee,” with a minimum order requirement of 5,000 litres. “Our free direct delivery service will commence soon,” the group said, adding that the offer is open to “all petrol station owners and dealers.” The Dangote Group further called on operators to register their stations to access the supply arrangement. “Register your petrol stations today to benefit from our competitive gantry price,” the statement read. The company also disclosed that petrol supplied under the arrangement will be sold at a gantry price of ₦699 per litre. For enquiries, the group provided the following contact numbers: 0802-347-0470, 0809-324-7070, 0809-324-7071 and 0203. The announcement follows a recent petrol price adjustment by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. The refinery reduced its ex-depot petrol price from ₦828 to ₦699 per litre, representing a ₦129 cut or a 15.58 per cent reduction. An official of the refinery, who spoke to PUNCH Online on condition of anonymity, confirmed the adjustment, saying, “The refinery has reduced petrol gantry price to ₦699 per litre.” The new price reportedly took effect on December 11, 2025, marking the 20th petrol price adjustment announced by the refinery this year.  

Pictures:Anthony Joshua Injured in Nigeria Car crash, With Two Others Dead

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  World-renowned boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a road accident today in Makun, Ogun State. Eyewitnesses report that the incident occurred along a busy highway of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway around past 11am on Monday. The vehicle carrying Joshua, a Lexus Jeep with the number plate, KRD 850 HN, reportedly collided with a stationary truck under circumstances that are still being investigated. Adeniyi Orojo, who witnessed the accident told PUNCH Online that Joshua sustained minor injuries, saying that two people died on the spot. Orojo who stated that the accident happened just before Danco Filling Station in Makun, before Sagamu Interchange inward Ibadan axis of the road. He stated that two people died on the spot. “It was a two-vehicle convoy: a Lexus SUV and a Pajero SUV. Joshua was seated behind the driver, with another person beside him. There was also a passenger sitting beside the driver, making four occupants in the Lexus that crashed. His security detail was in the vehicle behind them before the crash. “Other eyewitnesses and I began the rescue and flagged down oncoming vehicles to assist. A few minutes after the crash, officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps arrived. The passenger beside the driver and the person beside Joshua died on the spot,” he said. Fans have flooded social media with messages of concern, while local authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash. Efforts to reach the TRACE Commandant, Akinbiyi Babatunde on further updates about the crash were futile as calls placed to his line did not go through. Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi, said in a phone call that he would get back to our correspondent shortly. “I’ve seen the videos too, but I will get back to you on it,” he said. More updates on Joshua’s condition are expected shortly. In a brief statement he later shared with our correspondent about 30 minutes later, he confirmed the crash, noting that “two died, while Joshua and one other have been hospitalised and are receiving treatment at a hospital that would not be disclosed.”

Aare Olayinka Segelu Felicitates Makinde, Akeem Olatunji On Birthday, Praises Selfless Leadership

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  A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State and governorship aspirant, Aare Olayinka Segelu, has extended warm birthday felicitations to Governor Seyi Makinde and Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Hon. Akeem Olatunji, as both leaders celebrate their birthdays on Christmas Day. In a congratulatory message made available to journalists on Thursday, Segelu described the coincidence of their birthdays with the Christmas celebration as symbolic, noting that it reflects the virtues of service, sacrifice and people-oriented leadership. Congratulating Governor Makinde on his 58th birthday, the PDP chieftain commended the governor’s leadership style and policy direction, which he said have positively transformed Oyo State across critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, civil service welfare and youth empowerment. According to Segelu, Makinde’s administration has strengthened public confidence in governance and repositioned Oyo State as a model of stability, fiscal discipline and inclusive development. “Governor Makinde’s birthday falling on Christmas Day is deeply symbolic. It reminds us of the ideals of humility, compassion and service to humanity, which he has consistently demonstrated in his leadership of Oyo State,” Segelu said. Segelu also congratulated Hon. Akeem Olatunji, who equally celebrates his birthday on December 25, describing him as a grassroots-focused leader whose administration has prioritised community development, responsiveness and people-centred governance in Oluyole Local Government Area. He noted that Olatunji’s leadership reflects the broader developmental vision of the PDP in Oyo State, particularly in strengthening local government administration and ensuring that governance dividends reach the grassroots. “Hon. Akeem Olatunji is a committed party man and a leader who understands the importance of grassroots governance. His dedication to the people of Oluyole Local Government deserves commendation as he marks another year today,” Segelu stated. The PDP chieftain said the joint celebration of both leaders’ birthdays on Christmas Day offers an opportunity to reflect on unity, responsible leadership and collective commitment to the progress of Oyo State. Segelu wished Governor Makinde and Hon. Olatunji good health, renewed strength and wisdom to continue serving the people effectively. He also extended Christmas greetings to Christians across the state. He urged residents of Oyo State to use the festive season to promote peace, tolerance and unity, stressing that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of harmony and shared responsibility.

Debo Akande Celebrates Gov. Makinde’s 58th Birthday, Extends Christmas Goodwill

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  The Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), Dr. Debo Akande, has congratulated Oyo State Governor , Engineer Seyi Makinde on the occasion of his 58th birthday, describing him as a transformational leader whose administration has redefined governance and economic development in Oyo State. In a congratulatory message issued on Thursday, Dr. Akande noted that Governor Makinde’s birthday, which coincides with Christmas Day, presents a unique opportunity to reflect on leadership founded on service, sacrifice, and people-centred development. “Your Excellency, as you mark another year of purposeful living, we celebrate not only your birthday but also your unwavering commitment to the growth and prosperity of Oyo State,” Dr. Akande said. “Your leadership has created a conducive environment for innovation, investment, and sustainable development, particularly in the agribusiness sector.” Dr. Akande, who also serves as Executive Adviser to the Governor on International Cooperation and Development, credited Makinde’s administration for repositioning agriculture as a major economic driver through deliberate policies and institutional reforms. According to him, the governor’s support has enabled OYSADA to attract strategic partnerships, empower smallholder farmers, create jobs for youths, and strengthen rural economies across the state. He added that initiatives such as the development of agribusiness industrial hubs and improved access to finance and markets have enhanced Oyo State’s competitiveness and reinforced its reputation as an emerging agribusiness destination in Nigeria. Extending his Christmas greetings, Dr. Akande prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and good health for the governor as he leads the state. “As Christians commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, a symbol of hope, humility, and selfless service we see these same virtues reflected in your style of governance,” he stated. Dr. Akande also used the occasion to wish residents of Oyo State a peaceful and joyful Christmas celebration, urging them to embrace unity, tolerance, and collective responsibility in the pursuit of sustained development. “May this festive season renew our faith in shared progress and strengthen our resolve to support policies and programmes that uplift our people,” he said. Governor Makinde, whose leadership has drawn commendations from within and outside the state, continues to receive goodwill messages from political leaders, traditional institutions, civil servants, and citizens as he marks his 58th birthday amid the Christmas celebrations.

Akinyele Constituency I Aspirant Hafeez Amuda Empowers Students, Women, PDP Leaders …T Talent Football Team Wins Maiden Kingsway U-17 Female Football Competition

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  The Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation on Friday, December 19, 2025, empowered young girls, secondary school students and women in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State, as it hosted the maiden edition of the Kingsway Under-17 Female Football Competition and Empowerment Programme. The event, which was held at IDC School, Apapa, Moniya, Ibadan, attracted political leaders, party elders, community stakeholders, youth and women representatives. Attendees converged to witness a programme that blended sports development, educational support, women empowerment and grassroots engagement. As part of the initiative, the foundation distributed writing materials and learning instruments to secondary school students across the local government area. The programme was hosted by the Executive Chairman of Akinyele Local Government, Hon. Akinwole Akinleye, alongside Dr. Hafeez Amuda, popularly known as Kingsway, founder of the Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation and an aspirant for the Oyo State House of Assembly, Akinyele Constituency I. Speaking at the grand finale, Dr. Amuda described the initiative as a deliberate effort to use sports as a tool for empowerment, discipline and social cohesion, particularly for the girl child. According to him, the U-17 female football competition was designed to create opportunities for young girls, encourage teamwork, build confidence and promote healthy lifestyles, while also steering them away from social vices.   “This programme goes beyond sports. It represents people-focused leadership, leadership that engages our youths positively, empowers women, supports education and strengthens community unity,” Dr. Amuda said. He added that grassroots sports remain one of the most effective platforms for talent discovery and youth development, stressing that young girls deserve equal opportunities to explore and maximise their potential through sports. Dr. Amuda explained that the distribution of learning materials was part of the foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting educational development, noting that access to basic learning tools plays a crucial role in academic performance and students’ self-confidence. “Supporting education is supporting the future. These materials may appear small, but they make a significant difference in the learning process of our children,” he said. Mr. Obatowa JP, representing the Commissioner for Education, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, said the Oyo State Government was pleased with programmes that support educational development at the grassroots. “The government is happy with initiatives like this. When individuals support education, it shows a clear commitment to the future of our children. The governor appreciates programmes that promote learning and youth development,” he said. He added that individuals and organisations that consistently support education are recognised by the government, noting that such efforts align with the vision of Governor Seyi Makinde on inclusive development. He also commended the Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation for complementing government efforts in education and youth development. Some of the student beneficiaries described the support as timely and impactful. One of the beneficiaries, Bolatito, said the learning materials would help her improve in mathematics and other subjects. “It will help me to do better in my subjects and calculations, especially mathematics. I will use the instrument during calculations and examinations,” she said. Another beneficiary, Samuel Paul Oreofe, also commended the foundation for the gesture. “This is a nice idea. We thank him for the gift. God will bless him. It will help in calculations and improve our intelligence for education,” he said. The football competition climaxed with an exciting final match, as T Talent Football Team emerged winners of the maiden edition of the Kingsway U-17 Female Football Competition. The winning team received medals and cash prizes, while other participating teams were also recognised for their efforts.

Dangote Petitions ICPC Over NMDPRA CEO, Commission Confirms

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  The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has confirmed receipt of a petition from businessman Aliko Dangote against the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Farouk Ahmed. In a statement signed by its spokesperson, John Odey, on Tuesday, the anti-graft agency said the petition was submitted through Dangote’s lawyer earlier in the day. “The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) writes to confirm that it received a formal petition today, Tuesday, 16th December, 2025, from Alhaji Aliko Dangote through his lawyer. The petition is against the CEO of the NMDPRA, Alhaji Farouk Ahmed,” the commission said. The ICPC added that the petition would be subjected to due investigation. PUNCH Online had reported that in the petition dated and submitted on December 16 through his lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, SAN, Dangote accused the NMDPRA CEO of corruption and misuse of public funds. Among other allegations, he alleges that Farouk spent over $7 million in public funds on his four children’s education at elite Swiss schools, with fees paid upfront for up to six years. “That Engr Farouk Ahmed spent without evidence of lawful means of income humongous amount of money of over 7million dollars of Public funds, for the education of his four children in different schools in Switzerland for a period of six years upfront,” the petition read. This expenditure, Dangote claims, lacks evidence of lawful income sources and constitutes embezzlement, diversion of funds, and abuse of office. He therefore urged the Commission to act decisively by investigating the allegations against Farouk and prosecuting him if found culpable, stressing that the matter is already in the public domain. The move intensifies an ongoing public dispute between Dangote’s refinery operations and the regulatory body tasked with overseeing Nigeria’s petroleum sector.

Labour Claims Plot to Sabotage Protest, Threatens Indefinite Strike

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  The Nigeria Labour Congress, on Tuesday, warned that any attempt to interfere with Wednesday’s National Day of Protest and mourning could spark a nationwide indefinite strike. Acting General Secretary, Benson Upah, said in a statement that the union had received intelligence suggesting that unscrupulous agencies and desperate political hirelings might try to infiltrate or violently disrupt the demonstrations. He added that harming even a single worker or citizen would trigger an immediate and indefinite shutdown across all sectors of the economy. “Our action tomorrow is not just a mere procession; it is a collective act of grief, a roar of despair from the oppressed, and a democratic demand for the fundamental right to life and security,” the statement read. The union highlighted the deaths of countless members, teachers, farmers, miners, and other artisans amid escalating insecurity and government inaction. The union urged all workers, students, traders, and citizens to remain disciplined, peaceful, and united. “Solidarity is our shield,” it said. The NLC also called on the police, who have been informed of the protest, to protect citizens’ democratic right to assemble and express their grievances. The protest, first announced following the NLC’s National Executive Council meeting on December 4, 2025, is intended as a response to a wide range of national crises. The NEC had expressed serious concern over the country’s worsening security situation, including the abduction of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State on 17 November 2025, during which two staff members were killed. The union condemned the withdrawal of security personnel prior to the attack and called for urgent government intervention. According to the World Bank’s Nigeria Development Update, released in October 2025, approximately 139 million Nigerians, about 61–62 per cent of the population, are living in poverty, a sharp increase from previous years. The NEC criticised the Federal Government’s use of divide-and-rule tactics, which undermine union unity and stall negotiations. It urged the government to implement a fair and uniform remuneration framework for all university workers while recognising the unique needs of different professional groups. The ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions, which began on 14 November 2025, was also reviewed. The NLC expressed concern over the withdrawal of nurses from the industrial action and warned that, should negotiations fail, it and its affiliates would join the strike in full solidarity. The NEC also directed the revival of the Labour–Civil Society Coalition, originally formed under Adams Oshiomhole, to strengthen collaboration between labour organisations and civil society in addressing national issues. On political matters, the NLC criticised the Labour Party, stating that it had been hijacked by mercantile interests through the Nenadi Usman-led Caretaker Committee. The union resolved to withdraw from these committees and focus on building coalitions with parties whose ideologies align with working-class principles, while continuing to engage with the Labour Party where possible. The NLC warned those plotting to disrupt tomorrow’s protest to desist immediately. Any attack on peaceful protesters will be treated as a direct declaration of war on the entire Nigerian working class and its allies. The union emphasised that if even a single worker, comrade, or citizen is harmed during the protest, the NLC will declare an immediate, comprehensive, and indefinite nationwide strike, shutting down all production, services, and sectors of the national economy. “Any attack on our protest will be an attack on the very engine of Nigeria. The consequence will be an escalation and a total shutdown,” the union stated.

BREAKING: Dembélé Clinches FIFA Best Men’s Player Award

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  Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé has been named the FIFA Best Men’s Player for 2025 after an outstanding season with Paris Saint-Germain and the France national team. Dembélé played a pivotal role for PSG, showcasing his pace, creativity, and goal-scoring ability, while also helping France achieve strong results in international competitions, solidifying his reputation as one of the world’s top footballers. In the women’s category, Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmatí was named the FIFA Best Women’s Player for 2025, following exceptional performances for both FC Barcelona and the Spain national team. Bonmatí was instrumental in Barcelona’s success in domestic and European competitions, demonstrating creativity, vision, and leadership in midfield. Her contributions also helped Spain achieve remarkable results on the international stage, further cementing her status as one of the world’s top female footballers.

Naijanewshub Publisher Kazeem Awojoodu Celebrates Debo Akande’s Birthday, Hails Him as a Visionary Leader

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  Mr. Kazeem Awojoodu, the Publisher of Naijanewshub, has extended warm birthday greetings to Dr. Debo Akande, the Director General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and Executive Adviser to the Governor on Agribusiness and International Cooperation. In his message, Mr. Awojoodu described Dr. Akande as a visionary leader whose dedication to agribusiness development and international collaboration has transformed Oyo State’s agricultural landscape. Highlighting Dr. Akande’s achievements, Mr. Awojoodu praised his efforts in empowering farmers, promoting sustainable agriculture, and fostering international partnerships that enhance investment in the state’s agribusiness sector. “On this special day, we celebrate a man whose leadership, innovation, and commitment continue to inspire. Happy Birthday, Dr. Debo Akande! May your year ahead be filled with health, happiness, and continued success,” he said. He added, “Dr. Akande’s passion for agriculture goes beyond policy; it’s about creating real opportunities for ordinary farmers and young entrepreneurs. His vision has made Oyo State a reference point for agribusiness in Nigeria.” Mr. Awojoodu further remarked, “Leadership is measured by impact, and Dr. Akande has left an indelible mark. From modernizing agribusiness practices to attracting international investments, his efforts speak volumes.” Reflecting on Dr. Akande’s personal qualities, he said, “Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Akande is a man of integrity, humility, and compassion. It’s rare to find a leader who balances strategic thinking with genuine care for people, and he exemplifies that every day.”

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