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A coalition of Islamic groups has cautioned Muslim leaders and clerics across the country against undue interference in ongoing tax reform discussions, warning that such matters are technical, constitutional and should be handled by relevant government institutions.

The groups, under the umbrella of the Coalition of Islamic Organisations for National Development (CIOND), made their position known in a statement issued on Wednesday, stressing that tax reform policies are economic and administrative issues that should not be politicised or religiously coloured.

According to the statement, signed by the coalition’s National Coordinator, Sheikh Abdulrahman Musa, while Islam encourages justice, accountability and fairness in governance, it does not support the distortion of public policy debates through sentiments that could inflame religious tensions.

“The issue of tax reform is a national economic matter that affects all Nigerians, irrespective of faith or ethnicity. It requires expert analysis, stakeholder engagement and constitutional processes, not emotional or sectarian interventions,” the statement read.

The coalition noted that recent comments by some religious figures risk misleading the public and creating unnecessary suspicion about government policies aimed at strengthening revenue generation and economic stability.

CIOND urged Muslim leaders to focus on their primary responsibilities of moral guidance, peacebuilding and social harmony, rather than making pronouncements on technical fiscal policies beyond their competence.

“Islam upholds knowledge and professionalism. Where policies are being debated, those with the requisite expertise should be allowed to lead the conversation, while religious leaders can contribute by advocating fairness, transparency and protection of the poor,” the group added.

The Islamic groups further called on the Federal Government to intensify public enlightenment on the objectives and safeguards of the proposed tax reforms, to address misinformation and build public trust.

They also appealed to Nigerians to resist attempts to frame economic reforms along religious lines, warning that such narratives could undermine national unity and derail well-intentioned policies.

The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence and constructive engagement with government on policies that promote economic growth, social justice and national development.

The Forum for Good Governance and Economic Development (FGGED) has dismissed recent claims allegedly made by the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, against the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, describing the allegations as unfounded, misleading and capable of undermining regulatory stability in the petroleum sector.

In a statement issued today and made available to Journalists, the forum said it had carefully reviewed the claims attributed to Dangote and found them to be “lacking in factual basis and unsupported by regulatory or operational realities within the downstream petroleum industry.”

The Forum in the Statement signed by its Secretary,Dr. Abraham Japhet further passed a vote of confidence on Engr. Ahmed, commending his leadership of the NMDPRA and his commitment to transparency, due process and strict adherence to the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

According to the forum, since assuming office, the NMDPRA under Ahmed has implemented key reforms aimed at sanitising the downstream sector, improving regulatory oversight, ensuring fair competition and protecting the interests of consumers and investors alike.

“The NMDPRA boss has demonstrated professionalism and independence in the discharge of his duties, resisting undue pressure from vested interests while prioritising national interest,” the statement said.

FGGED warned against what it described as attempts by powerful corporate actors to intimidate or discredit regulators in order to secure favourable outcomes, stressing that no individual or company should be allowed to undermine institutions established by law.

The forum urged stakeholders in the oil and gas industry to engage constructively with regulators and utilise established dispute-resolution mechanisms rather than resorting to public statements that could erode investor confidence and destabilise the sector.

It also called on the Federal Government to continue to support the NMDPRA in the effective implementation of the PIA, noting that a strong and independent regulator is critical to the sustainability and growth of Nigeria’s petroleum industry.

The group reaffirmed its support for reforms in the oil and gas sector and pledged to continue to defend public institutions and officials who act in accordance with the law and in the best interest of the country.

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s environmental sector have been assured that the outcome of the 18th National Council on Environment (NCE) will strengthen policy direction and environmental sustainability in the country.

Giving this reassurance is Mahmud Adam Kambari, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Environment during the opening of the Technical Session of the meeting of the 18th NCE on Monday, 15th December 2025 in Katsina, Katsina State.

The Permanent Secretary disclosed that the Council, which is the highest policy making body, will provide a vital opportunity for the Federal Government, State Governments, and other key stakeholders to review progress, deliberate on emerging challenges and adopt resolutions that shape national environmental policy.

He also noted that this year’s theme: “Tackling the Triple Planetary Crisis of Climate Change, Biodiversity Loss and Pollution for Sustainable Development in Nigeria”, reflects our shared recognition of the urgent need to act collectively in addressing the environmental crises that threaten our ecosystems, food security, health, and sustainable development aspirations among others.

He commended the Government and people of Katsina State for their warm hospitality and partnership. He also appreciated the Minister of Environment for his visionary leadership, State Commissioners of Environment, Development Partners, and all other relevant stakeholders for their commitment to the Nigerian Environmental sustainability
Earlier in his welcome address, the Head of Service to the Katsina State Government and Chairman Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the Council, Falalu Bawale revealed that the presence of the participants was a testament of the resolve to maintain environmental sustainability, deepen effective efforts of utilizing professional expertise to ensure that our environment is adequately maintained.

Bawale appreciated the Federal Ministry of Environment for choosing Katsina State as the hosting of this prestigious National forum, indeed the National Council on Environment is the most strategic policy organs that provides platform for critical dialogue, policy harmonization and strategic intervention on environment.

He further reiterated that the council will offer the State best practices of environmental resilience and adherence to Climate Change.

The Council will be officially declared open by the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal on Wednesday 17th December 2025.

A statement issued and signed by Ibrahim Haruna, Director, Information and Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Environment revealed.

A pro-revenue advocacy group, alongside several civil society voices under the umbrella of the Forum for Economic Recovery and Development (FERD), has defended the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, over criticisms trailing a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the FIRS and France’s Direction Générale des Finances Publiques (DGFiP).

In a statement issued on Tuesday and made available to journalists, the group described calls for Dr. Adedeji’s suspension over the MoU as “baseless, malicious and politically sponsored,” warning that such attacks were aimed at undermining ongoing tax administration reforms that have contributed to improved revenue collection.

The statement, signed by FERD’s President, Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed, said critics of the agreement had failed to present any verifiable evidence to support claims that the MoU would hand over control of Nigerian taxpayers’ data to France.

According to the group, the pact, signed on December 10, 2025, is a technical assistance and capacity-building arrangement designed to modernise Nigeria’s tax administration through the exchange of expertise in digital tax tools, automated compliance systems and data analytics.

“We must have trust in our public institutions,” the statement said. “The FIRS has clearly stated that the MoU does not grant France access to Nigerian taxpayer databases, digital systems or operational infrastructure. Existing Nigerian data protection and cybersecurity laws remain fully applicable, and these assurances should be accepted until proven otherwise.”

FERD expressed concern that, despite these assurances, several political parties, regional groups and civil society organisations had continued to criticise the agreement, arguing that it could threaten national sovereignty and expose sensitive economic data.

The group noted that recent public statements by the FIRS had emphasised that the collaboration is a non-executive, advisory arrangement focused on skills transfer, adding that the agency would continue to work with Nigerian technology firms and payment processors within a multi-channel revenue collection framework.

“Independent tax policy experts would ordinarily not oppose technical cooperation with advanced tax authorities if it can accelerate modernisation,” the statement added. “However, we urge the government to remain transparent about the scope of data sharing, the safeguards in place, and the procurement and oversight mechanisms that will protect Nigerians’ information.

“However, we gathered that the controversy has begun to attract the attention of lawmakers and opposition parties, with some calling for the MoU to be presented before the National Assembly or for a comprehensive public briefing on its terms.

We therefore suggest that the FIRS and the Federal Government may need to move swiftly to provide clearer details on legal safeguards, data-handling protocols and the role, if any, that foreign agencies or vendors will play in Nigeria’s future revenue collection systems.

The group concluded that the handling of the issue will be critical to shaping public confidence in Nigeria’s digital tax transformation and the credibility of the reforms being pursued by the FIRS under Dr. Adedeji’s leadership.

Christian groups from Benue and Plateau states have commended former Zamfara State Governor and Senator representing Zamfara West, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, for what they described as his landmark efforts toward ensuring sustainable peace and unity in Northern Nigeria.

The groups, drawn from various Christian associations and community leaders across the two states, expressed their appreciation in a joint statement issued on Sunday, noting that Senator Yari’s intervention came at a critical time when the region has continued to grapple with recurring communal tensions and security challenges.

According to the statement sign by Reverend Innocent Ogbanje and Pastor Peter Lange , Senator Yari has demonstrated uncommon statesmanship by rising above political, ethnic and religious divides to engage stakeholders in genuine dialogue aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence.

The groups said his approach, which emphasizes inclusiveness, mutual respect and justice, has helped to douse tension and restore confidence among communities affected by protracted conflicts.

They noted that his recent consultations with traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and security agencies in parts of the North, particularly in Benue and Plateau states, sent a strong message that peacebuilding requires collective responsibility and sincere leadership.

“Senator Abdulaziz Yari has shown that peace is achievable when leaders are willing to listen, engage and act in the interest of all, irrespective of faith or background,” the statement read.

“His intervention has rekindled hope among our people and reinforced the need for unity as the only pathway to sustainable development in the region.”

The Christian groups further applauded the senator for promoting interfaith understanding, describing his outreach to Christian leaders as a significant step toward bridging trust gaps and addressing long-standing grievances. They said such efforts are crucial in countering narratives of division and in strengthening the bonds of brotherhood among diverse communities in the North.

While calling on other political leaders to emulate Senator Yari’s example, the groups urged the federal and state governments to complement such initiatives with concrete policies that address the root causes of conflict, including poverty, unemployment and weak justice mechanisms.

They reaffirmed their commitment to peace and pledged to continue working with Muslim groups, traditional institutions and government authorities to sustain dialogue and prevent future crises.

The groups concluded by praying for wisdom and strength for leaders championing peace across the region, stressing that the stability of Northern Nigeria remains vital to the unity and progress of the country as a whole.

By Salisu Ibrahim

Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), a key Institution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is becoming more visible and impactful in its pursuit of fair and equitable distribution of the nation’s resources.
Thanks to the visionary leadership of its Chairman, Dr Muhammad Bello Shehu whose strategic approach to leadership, good governance and accountability is leaving a transparent and accountable footprint in the Commission’s
fiscal operations.

The country is now witnessing a robust fiscal operations in fulfilment of the Commission’s Constitution role.

The Constitution has mandated RMAFC to monitor revenue accruals and disbursements as well as determine remuneration for public office holders.

This task is by no means daunting, yet the Commission’s management under the Chairmanship of Dr. Muhammed Bello Shehu is up and doing in meeting up with the nation’s expectations.

A cursory look at how the Chairman runs the affairs of the Commission in collaboration with the board and the management is what’s working in the strategic repositioning of the Commission’s operations.

In all its activities, the Commission focuses on data collection and analysis from government agencies to achieve its mandate, while it reviews revenue allocation formulae every five years, just to ensure fair and equitable distribution of resources.
This perhaps, explain why, RMAFC has been at the forefront of calls for a reduction in the day-to-day government expenditure, and ensuring that public funds are spent judiciously and for the welfare of the people.

Dr. Muhammed Bello Shehu, as Chairman has created a very conducive atmosphere for workers to function effectively. He is undoubtedly promoting the principles of transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s fiscal operations in the management of Nigeria’s vital resources, and is enjoying the support of his management team and board members.

Under his leadership, RMAFC, has been up and doing, implementing various strategies to meet the nation’s and public expectations.

So far, the Commission has developed a clear roadmap and accessible strategies that focuses on transparency and accountability, while reaching out to the relevant stakeholders to enhance its visibility and impact.

Beside that, the Commission has launched several initiatives to enhance its visibility and impact, by developing an acceptable and transparent framework for the management of derivation funds.

Additionally, the Commission has engages consultants to drive the recovery of unremitted revenues, remain open for public scrutiny and has launched several initiatives to promote transparency and accountability as it engages with citizens and relevant stakeholders.

Fiscal efficiency and revenue mobilization as is being driven by the Commission, is currently supporting sustainable economic development of the country, with the Commission leading the process and making it to work for the Nation’s growth.

Under Dr. Muhammed Bello Shehu’s leadership, RMAFC is committed to promoting transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s fiscal operations. It has successfully provided a framework for equitable distribution of resources among federal, state, and local governments, while enhancing fiscal efficiency and revenue mobilization to support sustainable economic development of the country.

The leadership vision of Dr MB Shehu is to transform the Commission to become a world-class institution, that is promoting transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s fiscal operations, as it ensures equitable distribution of resources for the benefit of all Nigerians.

Salisu Ibrahim contributed this piece from Kano, could be reached on faccageltd10@gmail.com

15th December 2025

The Director-General of Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi(FIIRO),Dr.(Mrs)Jummai Tutuwa Adamu will be recognized with the prestigious Leadtimes Africa Industrial Researcher of the Year this week.In a press statement credited to Professor Buba S. Mshelia, the advisory chairman of Leadtimes Africa Magazine and the co-convener of the ceremony states:”the forthcoming ceremony will recognise few prominent leaders that are exceptional in their services to humanity with various awards during the summit.Selection for the honor was done on merit without bias or prejudices’,the statement further said.”Few outstanding Nigerians who have contributed immensely to the growth of Leadtimes Africa magazine over the year will be inducted into the Leadtimes Africa Hall of Fame, and will also receive Leadtimes Grand African Leadership Prize for Integrity,Transparency, and Accountability including the Leadtimes Africa Global Leadership Excellence Award respectively,” Mshelia further stated.

He opines further, “the D.G/CEO of Federal Institute of Industrial Research,Dr.(Mrs)Jummai Adamu Tutuwa is nominated for her indomitable contributions towards inspiring transformation in Nigeria’s industrial research landscape,demonstrating the profound impact of science and technology on national development.”
During the ceremony, the Group Managing Director of UR 9 , Dr.( Hon)Uriel
Ezeh will also be decorated with the prestigious Leadtimes Africa Businessman of the Year Award as he has distinguished himself as one of the outstanding business industrialists and professionals that cut across different sectors of the economy including beverages, real estate and construction, interior Design, Agriculture, media, technologies, hospitality, energy, Fashion, logistics, security, and Asset Management, among others.Others listed for Grand Leadership Prize for Integrity, Transparency and Accountability for Service include Dr. Azeez Abayomi Mustapha, CEO of AZ Logistics Limited;CEO of Kwara State Procurement Agency, Mr. QS Raheem Abdulbaki; and the Group Managing Director/CEO of Trade and Tech, Engr.(Dr.) Abubakar Sadiq Mustapha,a 2023 winner of the Leadtimes Africa Businessman of the Year is again being nominated to serve as the Advisory Board member of Leadtimes Africa Magazine in view of his enormous contributions to Leadtimes Africa magazine over the year will be inducted into the Leadtimes Africa Hall of Fame during the ceremony.
In the same vein,few other eminent Nigerians will be decorated with honorary doctorate degree awards of Highstone Global University, Texas, USA.
Those to bag HGU honorary awards include Princess Layo Bakare Okeowo, CEO of FAE Limited and the
General Secretary,NIPR who doubles as the Principal Consult SS PR Comm. Ltd, Dr. Ahmadu Fatimah Binta who will bag Doctor of Personnel and Human Resource Management including Amb.
Emmanuel Moris of Nigeria Police Force who is nominated for Doctor of Risk and Security Management(honoris causa).
Aside from being inducted into the Leadtimes Africa Hall of Fame by selected few, others listed for Leadtimes Africa Global Leadership Excellence Award; and Grand Africa Leadership Prize for Integrity, Transparency, and Accountability in Service.
These include CEO of Silhouette Design and Build Ltd, Arc.(Dr.) Alaba Abiodun Oduniyi;Area Manager of the Lagos office of NIWA, Engr.( Dr) Lara Sarat Braimah;the CEO of Dynamic Mayor Edge Nig. Ltd, Dr. Olumayowa Olufemi Olurishe; Executive Chairman/CEO of Gombe State Internal Revenue Service, Dr. Abubakar Inuwa Tata and Dr. Omoh Atsenokhai of National Library of Nigeria H/Q;a certified public procurement specialist of Bureau of Public Procurement of Nigeria, Dr. Ikhile Edobor Fred;Chairman/CEO of Tonypeters Industries PLC, Chief(Dr).Anthony Chukwuemeka Onyeakusi.Others are Chief (Dr.) Bernard Okumagba, fmr Managing Director of NDDC;Fmr North-East Zonal Manager of FCMB,Dr.Bala Ma’aji;General Manager TCN,Abuja, FCT, Engr.( Dr) Maiwada Sarki Bello; CEO of Chrisanbeth Investments Ltd, Dr.(Mrs) Lami Onayi Ahmed and the Fmr Chairman of Kanam LGC of Plateau, Hon.( Dr) Dayyabu Yusuf Garga.
Other awardees are Dr. Ifeanyi Madu, CEO Enmal Orthopaedic;Group Managing Director of Temple Group Limited,Prince ( Dr)Segun Ochuko Obayendo;the CEO of Anthomi Properties Nigeria Ltd, Dr. (Mrs) Anthonia Ada Utomi;CEO of Rhoda Michael ‘s Fashion Institute, Dr. Rhoda Agbeyo;CEO of Silvers and Hall Schools, Lekki, Lagos, Dr.(Barr) Omobonike Mariam Agunbiade;CEO of Eaglenet Logistics Services Ltd, Dr. Vincent Ugo Chukwuemeka Nwaugha;Three outstanding organizations including the freightliner Logistics Services Ltd;Tasty Time Nigeria Ltd and the Bowa-Gate Global Ltd who will bag the Leadtimes Africa Best Logistics Services of the Year;Leadtimes Africa Most Flavor and Confectionaries; and Leadtimes Africa Beacon of Excellence in Logistics services 2025, respectively.
During the program ,representatives of Highestone Global University, Texas, USA, will be attendance.

On Saturday, 13th November 2025, the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation, in collaboration with the Tukur & Tukur Foundation, successfully executed a one-day medical outreach programme at the Primary Health Care Centre, Kofar Fada, Keffi. This initiative, held as part of the 10th Anniversary celebrations of His Royal Highness, Dr. Usman Chindo Yamusa III, PhD, CON, was aimed at offering accessible and quality healthcare services to underserved members of the community.

The medical outreach featured comprehensive healthcare services, including general medical consultations, eye screenings, and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) diagnosis and treatment. The interventions were facilitated by highly qualified medical personnel and dedicated volunteers, equipped with modern medical instruments and supplies to effectively tackle prominent health issues within the host community and surrounding areas.

More than 1,000 individuals benefited from the outreach, a testament to the programme’s strong community impact and reach. The service breakdown included 250 persons screened for eye conditions, 175 attendees for ENT consultations, and over 503 persons receiving general medical consultations. Additionally, 121 pairs of reading glasses were distributed to address vision impairments.

Prevalent health conditions identified during the outreach comprised dermatitis (skin rashes and related issues), cataracts and other eye disorders, cerumen impaction (excessive earwax accumulation), malaria fever, typhoid fever, and diarrhoeal diseases.

This humanitarian effort formed a cornerstone of the anniversary festivities marking a decade of exemplary leadership and service by HRH Dr. Usman Chindo Yamusa III. The outreach programme not only honoured his reign but also underscored his unwavering dedication to enhancing the health and well-being of his people.

Both the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation and the Tukur & Tukur Foundation received overwhelming appreciation from beneficiaries, who lauded the initiative’s significant and lasting contribution to community health. The success of this event further reinforces the foundations’ commitment to advancing quality healthcare delivery and social welfare development across Nigeria.

The integration of this medical outreach into the anniversary celebrations highlighted a meaningful, compassionate approach to leadership and community service — a fitting tribute to His Royal Highness’s tireless efforts on behalf of his people.

NCSPG Condemns Detention of Ex-AGF Malami, Demands Immediate Release

The Northern Coalition of Socio-Political Groups (NCSPG) has condemned the continued detention of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, describing it as unlawful and a blatant violation of his constitutional rights.

The coalition made this known on Sunday during a press conference held at Arewa House, Kaduna.

Addressing journalists, President of the NCSPG, Comrade Musa Mohammed, said Malami had been held by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for several days without formal charges, court appearance or access to due process.

Mohammed said the action of the anti-graft agency contravenes Sections 35 and 36 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee personal liberty and the right to fair hearing.

“It is appalling that a former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice is being detained without charge or trial. This is a clear abuse of power and a dangerous disregard for the rule of law,” he said.

The coalition questioned the timing of the arrest, suggesting it may be politically motivated following Malami’s recent defection to another political party.

“Why is the EFCC acting now? Is this a genuine anti-corruption effort or a witch-hunt disguised as justice?” Mohammed asked.

NCSPG further alleged that no prima facie case had been established against Malami, noting that there had been no filing of charges, no presentation before a competent court and no opportunity for him to defend himself.

“This is not justice; it is arbitrary exercise of power,” the coalition stated.

Warning of possible mass action, the group said it would mobilise nationwide protests, petition international organisations and pursue legal remedies if Malami is not released immediately.

“A Nigeria that detains its former leaders without due process is a nation drifting towards authoritarianism,” Mohammed warned.

The coalition described Malami as “a patriot, not a convict,” and called on the EFCC and the Federal Government to respect constitutional provisions and democratic norms.

Among its demands, the NCSPG called for the immediate and unconditional release of Abubakar Malami, a thorough investigation into the motives behind his detention, and strict adherence to the Constitution and the rule of law.

The group also urged Nigerians, legal practitioners and human rights organisations to rise in defence of justice and constitutionalism.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ulamah, legal practitioners, media practitioners, CSOs, Northern Youth, and Elders Forum strongly condemn the detention of former Minister Abubakar Malami by the EFCC for days without evidence or trial, a clear violation of the Nigerian Constitution.

In a joint press statement signed by Coordinator Dr. Abdulkadeer Abdulkareem, the groups express outrage:

“Detaining a former minister without proof or court proceedings is unacceptable. This smacks of political vendetta, not justice.”

The coalition questions the timing, highlighting that Malami was detained only after switching parties:

“Why now? Why was he not invited before he left APC? This raises troubling suspicions.”

The statement concludes with a firm demand:

1. The immediate and unconditional release of Abubakar Malami.

2. An end to what they describe as “baseless harassment driven by political motives.”

Key excerpts:

“We warn the EFCC and the federal government: justice delayed is justice denied. Malami must not spend another day in custody without charges. We stand for the rule of law.”

“We demand transparency. If there’s a case, present it. Otherwise, release him now.”

Signed,

Dr. Abdulkadeer Abdulkareem

Coordinator, Ulamah, Legal Practitioners, Media Practitioners, CSOs, Northern Youth and Elders Forum.

This reflects the groups’ united stance, emphasizing constitutional rights, fairness, and their readiness to challenge perceived injustice.