Governors Back Tax Reform Bills, Oppose VAT Increase

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January 16, 2025

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has expressed its support for the tax reform bills submitted by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly. However, the governors firmly opposed any increase in the Value-Added Tax (VAT) rate, proposing an alternative sharing formula for equitable resource distribution.

In a communiqué issued on Thursday following a meeting with Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, the NGF emphasized their stance on modernizing Nigeria’s tax system. The meeting, held in Abuja, also highlighted critical resolutions on fiscal policies.

The communiqué, signed by NGF Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, outlined the proposed VAT sharing formula:

50% based on equality
30% based on derivation
20% based on population

The statement read:
“We, members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Presidential Tax Reform Committee, convened on January 16, 2025, to deliberate on vital national issues, including fiscal and tax policy reforms. The Forum strongly supports comprehensive reforms to Nigeria’s outdated tax laws, aimed at enhancing fiscal stability and aligning with global standards.”

Key resolutions from the communiqué include:

Opposition to VAT Increase: The Forum rejected any increase in the VAT rate or reduction in Corporate Income Tax (CIT), stressing the need for economic stability.
Protection of Citizens’ Welfare: Governors advocated for the continued VAT exemption on essential goods and agricultural products to safeguard citizens’ welfare and boost agricultural productivity.
Equitable Resource Distribution: The revised VAT sharing formula was endorsed to ensure fairness in resource allocation.
Support for Legislative Process: The Forum backed ongoing deliberations at the National Assembly to ensure the passage of the proposed tax reform bills.

The governors also recommended the removal of terminal clauses for agencies like the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, and the National Information Technology Development Agency in the sharing of development levies.

President Tinubu had earlier submitted four key tax reform bills to the National Assembly on October 3, 2024, following recommendations from the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms. These bills aim to modernize and streamline Nigeria’s taxation system:

Nigeria Tax Bill 2024: Provides a fiscal framework for taxation.
Tax Administration Bill: Establishes a clear legal framework to minimize disputes.
Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill: Replaces the Federal Inland Revenue Service Act with the Nigeria Revenue Service.
Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill: Creates a tax tribunal and ombudsman.

The NGF remains committed to modernizing Nigeria’s tax structure, emphasizing that these reforms are crucial for national development and fiscal sustainability.

UK Gambling Commission Amends Regulations for 2025

By

Rhoda Onuzulike

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January 16, 2025

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Britain’s Gambling Commission has announced significant amendments to its online gambling rules, which are to come into play in January 2025.

The new regulations have placed greater emphasis on consumer safety and are part of the ongoing work to prevent gambling-related harm and ensure a fair market.

*Financial Checks
Among the major updates for UK gambling regulations in 2025 are new financial checks on high-spending players. Online operators are already required to conduct light-touch financial checks on players depositing more than £500 in a month.

This regulation came into effect at the beginning of September 2024. By February 2025, the threshold for these checks will lower to £150.

The Gambling Commission is also conducting a six-month pilot test to refine its financial vulnerability checks, with a focus on high-spending accounts. This pilot will assess how credit reference agencies and gambling businesses can collaborate to create effective checks that balance consumer protection with player freedom.

The new rules will also affect the design of online gambling games. These changes are aimed at reducing the speed and intensity of online gambling, especially for slots and other games where quick results can encourage excessive play. However, they will not include peer to peer poker games online unlike those playable in other regulated countries. Starting on January 17, 2025, operators will need to implement several restrictions, including:
Banning autoplay features and other tools that speed up game outcomes.

Preventing any game elements that give players a false sense of control, such as ‘turbo’ buttons or ‘slam stops.’

Ensuring that no casino games have a spin time of less than five seconds.

Banning visual or audio celebrations for winnings that are equal to or less than the stake.

*Marketing Restrictions*

The regulations also address a major area of concern, which is the use of targeted marketing. From January 2025, online operators must make it possible for customers to opt in to marketing about specific products and to choose how they wish to be communicated with. Furthermore, they are prohibited from sending advertising to customers who have not agreed to receive it. The intention of this is that players receive only those marketing messages in which they are genuinely interested.

*Retail and Land-Based Venues*

Staff in gambling premises will be required to check the age of anyone who appears to be under 25, from August 30, 2024, up from the current requirement of 21 years. These checks are needed to prevent underage gambling and ensure that players are those legally allowed to gamble.

*Industry Voluntary Code*

Alongside the regulatory changes, the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has introduced a voluntary industry code to address customer checks. This code will remain in place until the full system of financial vulnerability assessments is rolled out. Under this code, operators will assess whether a customer shows any signs of harm if they attempt to deposit more than £5,000 in a month.

Customers making deposits over £25,000 in a 12-month period will undergo more detailed checks.

CBN Unveils DocFlow System and MDAs Naira Payment Solution

By

Tosin Onisuuru

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January 16, 2025

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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), led by Governor Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, has introduced two innovative initiatives: the Document Flow (DocFlow) System and the MDAs Naira Payment Solution.

Unveiled during an event at the CBN headquarters, these launches are part of the bank’s ongoing digital transformation agenda, “Digital First,” which began in December 2023 under Mr. Cardoso’s leadership.

Highlighting the significance of the DocFlow system, the governor described it as a transformative tool aimed at digitizing the bank’s document management processes, reducing paper usage, and optimizing approval workflows.

Similarly, the MDAs Naira Payment Solution, which automates cash withdrawal processes for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), is designed to improve transaction efficiency and enhance client support.

Governor Cardoso reaffirmed his commitment to the CBN’s initiatives, emphasizing their focus on enhancing service delivery, boosting operational efficiency, and driving sustainability through technology. He expressed pride in the in-house development of these solutions, which significantly reduced implementation costs.

Deputy Governor for Operations, Emem Usoro, applauded the launch as a testament to the CBN’s commitment to operational excellence and stakeholder satisfaction through automation and innovation. She noted that the MDAs Naira Payment Solution will improve service delivery, reduce errors and irregularities, and strengthen fraud prevention.

Mrs. Omoyemen Jide-Samuel, the project lead and Acting Director of the CBN’s Information Technology Department, revealed that the MDAs Naira Payment Solution had undergone successful testing with select MDAs. She emphasized that the solution aligns with the bank’s mission of achieving “Excellence in Central Banking Operations” by projecting a 70% improvement in payment turnaround times and advancing Nigeria’s financial ecosystem.

These initiatives mark a significant leap in the CBN’s efforts to modernize financial transaction management and foster a digitally-driven economy.

Landmark Africa Takes Charge of Nike Lake Resort in Joint Venture with Enugu State

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 16, 2025

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Landmark Africa Group has entered into a strategic partnership with the Enugu State Government to manage and revitalize the iconic Nike Lake Resort. This joint venture aims to transform the 150-hectare resort into a premier tourism and leisure destination of global standards.

The partnership agreement was formalized on Thursday, January 16, 2025, in Enugu. A video shared on the AIT YouTube channel captured the Landmark Africa CEO, Paul Onwuanibe, signing the agreement alongside Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah. The two leaders concluded the event with a handshake to seal the deal.

During a press briefing, Onwuanibe expressed optimism about the project and the potential of Enugu State:
“We see tremendous opportunity here, not just because Enugu is a progressive state, but because it has the potential to become the tourism and hospitality capital of the South East, and perhaps all of Nigeria.”

He highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, explaining that the state contributed the Nike Lake Resort as an asset while Landmark Africa will handle its management and operations. The goal, he said, is to restore the resort to its former glory.

Onwuanibe reminisced about the resort’s golden era, noting that he attended university in Enugu when the Nike Lake Resort was regarded as one of Nigeria’s finest. He assured stakeholders of Landmark Africa’s ability to revitalize the property, leveraging its expertise in creating business, leisure, and lifestyle hubs.

The resort is set to feature a hotel, convention center, and leisure tourism facilities, positioning it as a multifaceted destination. While reports suggest the agreement spans a 35-year lease, official confirmation of this detail is still awaited. Landmark Africa and the Enugu State Government are expected to release further details soon.

Additional Context

This development is part of Landmark Africa’s broader expansion strategy. The company recently partnered with the Rivers State Government to redevelop the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach into a top-tier leisure and hospitality destination.

The initiative follows the demolition of Landmark Beach Resort in Lagos in 2024 to make way for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Landmark Africa has since shifted its focus to expanding into other regions, including two additional Nigerian states and new ventures in other African countries.

According to Onwuanibe, the company evaluated proposals from 12 states before selecting three for its upcoming projects. Redevelopment of the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2025, with initial completion projected for the fourth quarter.

With confirmed expansions in Enugu and Rivers States, the third state involved in Landmark Africa’s growth plan will be announced in the coming weeks.

Burkina Faso Bans Colonial Wigs in Courts

By

Tosin Onisuuru

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January 16, 2025

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Front view of an antique horsehair lawyer's wig

Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traoré has announced a ban on British and French colonial-style wigs traditionally worn by judges, marking a bold step towards decolonising the nation’s judicial system.

In his announcement, President Traoré emphasized the need to break away from colonial traditions and adopt practices that reflect Burkina Faso’s rich cultural heritage. This move aligns with his broader efforts to promote national identity and assert the country’s sovereignty.

Colonial-era wigs have long been seen as symbols of foreign dominance in African legal systems. By discarding these relics, Burkina Faso joins a growing list of African nations prioritizing indigenous traditions over inherited colonial practices.

This decision highlights a broader movement across Africa, where countries are reassessing colonial legacies and adopting systems that better resonate with their people. It represents a significant cultural shift and a renewed focus on celebrating local heritage.

5 Major Events That Happened Between Barcelona and Real Betis

By

Tosin Onisuuru

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January 16, 2025

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Barcelona delivered a commanding performance against Real Betis on January 15, 2025, securing a 5-1 victory to advance to the Copa del Rey quarter-finals. Here are five major events from the match:

1. Early Goal by Gavi (3′): Barcelona set the tone early when Gavi scored in the third minute, finishing a low strike from a Dani Olmo assist.

2. Jules Koundé’s Volley (27′): Lamine Yamal showcased his playmaking skills with a lobbed pass to Jules Koundé, who volleyed home from close range to double Barcelona’s lead.

3. Raphinha’s Goal (58′): After two goals were disallowed by VAR for offside, Raphinha capitalized on a counter-attack initiated by Yamal, scoring Barcelona’s third goal.

4. Lamine Yamal’s Standout Performance: The 17-year-old forward was instrumental, contributing a goal and two assists. His exceptional dribbling and vision drew comparisons to legends like Messi and Neymar.

5. Vitor Roque’s Consolation Penalty (84′): Real Betis managed a late consolation goal when Vitor Roque converted a penalty after a foul by Koundé.

This victory continues Barcelona’s impressive form, following their Spanish Super Cup triumph, and highlights the emergence of young talents like Lamine Yamal.

Nigerian Teacher Named Among Top 50 Finalists for Global Teacher Prize

By

Tosin Onisuuru

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January 16, 2025

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Mr. Kayode Adewale, a Mathematics teacher at Imagbon/Imaka Comprehensive High School in Ogun State, Nigeria, has been named among the top 50 finalists for the prestigious 2025 Global Teacher Prize.

This recognition was announced in a statement on the official Global Teacher Prize website.

Teaching in a semi-urban community where most students come from low-income farming families, Adewale has transformed education in an environment with limited access to quality resources. Many of his students initially used smartphones solely for entertainment, but his innovative methods have revolutionized their academic experience.

Bridging Cultural and Educational Gaps

The organisers highlighted Adewale’s use of culturally relevant teaching techniques, which include incorporating local languages like Yoruba and Hausa to simplify complex mathematical concepts.

“By creating culturally tailored instructional videos and leveraging relatable examples, Adewale bridged the gap between his students’ cultural realities and academic content, fostering engagement and understanding,” the statement said.

His teaching integrates Culturally Relevant Pedagogy with Digital Literacy Education, encouraging students to use their smartphones as academic tools. He introduced platforms such as the Technology-Assisted Management Solution (TAIMS) and apps like Inquiry Learning Space (ILS) and PhET simulation, enabling collaborative virtual study groups and hands-on problem-solving. These strategies have significantly improved students’ performance in national and regional examinations while equipping them with essential digital skills.

Empowering Educators and Inspiring Innovation

Adewale’s impact extends beyond the classroom. Through his Transformation1090 Initiative, he has trained over 30,000 teachers, empowering them to integrate technology into their teaching practices.

As the founder of the Ogun517GoToSpace program, he has fostered interest in STEM careers by collaborating with global professionals, including NASA experts, to introduce students and educators to space science.

In addition to his focus on STEM education, Adewale promotes sustainability through projects such as tree-planting initiatives and climate change simulations. These efforts have equipped students with the knowledge to address environmental challenges.

A Legacy of Excellence

Adewale’s outstanding contributions have earned him national and international recognition. He was named the 2nd Runner-Up for Best Teacher in Nigeria and has received multiple awards for excellence in mathematics education.

The organisers of the Global Teacher Prize described him as a symbol of resilience and innovation, stating:
“Kayode Adewale’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education. By addressing socio-economic barriers with creativity and cultural sensitivity, he has enhanced academic outcomes and empowered students and educators to reach their full potential. His vision of ensuring every child has access to quality education is not just aspirational—it is a reality he strives to create every day.”

TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 Draw Unveiled

By

Tosin Onisuuru

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January 15, 2025

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The eagerly anticipated draw for the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania 2024 took place on Wednesday, January 15, in Nairobi, Kenya. The ceremony unveiled an exciting lineup of group-stage clashes for the tournament, which will be held in August 2025.

As hosts, Kenya were placed in Group A, a highly competitive pool featuring two-time champions Morocco and DR Congo, alongside Angola and Zambia. This group brings together former champions and top-tier teams, promising electrifying matches.

In Group B, Tanzania, another host nation, will square off against Madagascar, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic in what is expected to be an evenly matched contest.

Group C sees Uganda, the final host, leading the pool against Niger, Guinea, and two teams yet to be determined—Qualifier 1 and Qualifier 2. This group introduces an air of unpredictability, with much depending on the outcomes of the ongoing qualification rounds.

Defending champions Senegal headlined Group D, which comprises four teams. They will face off against Congo, Sudan, and Nigeria in a group loaded with history and quality.

Two spots in the tournament are still up for grabs, with Algeria, Comoros, Gambia, Malawi, Egypt, South Africa, and Gabon battling it out in qualification to secure the remaining berths as Qualifier 1 and Qualifier 2.

The TotalEnergies CHAN, now in its eighth edition, will make its return to East Africa, marking the first time the region has hosted the tournament since Rwanda in 2016. The competition is distinctively African, featuring players who compete exclusively in their domestic leagues, highlighting local talent and providing a platform to showcase their skills.

The draw ceremony, held at the iconic Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), featured 19 teams divided into four groups. Adding a touch of glamour to the event were East African football icons Hassan Wasswa (Uganda), Mrisho Ngasa (Tanzania), and McDonald Mariga (Kenya), who lent their expertise and star power to the proceedings.

Notable past champions in the tournament include Morocco and DR Congo, who have each claimed the trophy twice, as well as Tunisia, Libya, and current titleholders Senegal.

TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 Groups

Group A: Kenya, Morocco, Angola, DR Congo, Zambia

Group B: Tanzania, Madagascar, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic

Group C: Uganda, Niger, Guinea, Qualifier 1, Qualifier 2

Group D: Senegal, Congo, Sudan, Nigeria

East Africa eagerly anticipates hosting this prestigious tournament, which promises to deliver memorable moments and celebrate the best of African football talent.The tournament features only players who ply their trade in their domestic leagues and is a platform to showcase the quality of homegrown talent. It is a concept unique to Africa.

TOTALENERGIES CAF AFRICAN NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP GROUPS

GROUP A: Kenya, Morocco, Angola, DR Congo, Zambia
GROUP B: Tanzania, Madagascar, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic
GROUP C: Uganda, Niger, Guinea, Qualifier 1, Qualifier 2
GROUP D: Senegal, Congo, Sudan, Nigeria

Lucky Aiyedatiwa Dissolves Ondo Cabinet, Exempts Two Commissioners

By

Tosin Onisuuru

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January 15, 2025

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Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has announced the immediate dissolution of the State Executive Council. The move, made public on Wednesday, excludes two key cabinet members—Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, and Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac—due to the importance of their respective roles.

A statement from the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, outlined that the affected officials are required to hand over all government properties in their possession to the accounting officers of their respective ministries.

The statement reads: “Governor Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has approved the immediate dissolution of the State Executive Council. However, two cabinet members, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, and Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac, Commissioner for Finance, have been exempted from this action due to the critical nature of their duties.”

The governor expressed his appreciation to the outgoing cabinet members for their contributions to the state’s development and wished them success in their future endeavors.

South Africa-Botswana Border Closed Due to Heavy Rainfall and Flooding

By

Tosin Onisuuru

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January 15, 2025

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The South African Border Management Authority has temporarily shut down the Grobler’s Bridge crossing between South Africa and Botswana due to severe rainfall and flooding in the region.

This critical border post, located in northern South Africa, is a vital trade route, particularly for miners from Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, who rely on the crossing to transport goods to the port of Durban.

In an official statement, the South African Border Management Authority explained that, after consulting with Botswana’s authorities and holding discussions with the Port Management Committee, the decision to suspend operations was made to ensure public safety.

Travelers and truck operators have been urged to seek alternative routes as the authorities work to manage the situation.

The closure follows heavy rains that affected South Africa’s northern Limpopo province over the weekend.