Welcome

Tag: Federal Government

  • NASU Threatens Nationwide Strike Over 40% Allowance Demand, Rejects FG’s 30% Offer

    The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed 30 percent increase in the Consolidated Academic Allowance for its members, warning of a nationwide strike if its demand for 40 percent is not met by May 1.

    Union insists on parity with ASUU

    NASU leaders say the government’s offer falls short, especially after reports that academic staff received a 40 percent increment.

    Speaking at a trade group council meeting held at Lagos State University on Thursday, NASU General Secretary, Peters Adeyemi, insisted that non-academic staff deserve equal treatment.

    “The simple thing is to conclude the agreement and give 40 per cent to non-teaching staff… If anything contrary is done, we will shut down the system,” he said.

    Strike warning as deadline approaches

    Adeyemi warned that failure to meet the union’s demand before the deadline would leave NASU with no choice but to embark on industrial action.

    He stressed that non-academic staff are essential to the functioning of universities and cannot be ignored in welfare negotiations.

    “We respect our academic colleagues, but they cannot operate without us being on duty,” he added.

    Concerns over delayed agreement

    NASU National President, Hassan Makolo, expressed concern over the prolonged renegotiation of the 2009 agreement between the Federal Government and university unions.

    He said workers’ expectations have grown amid worsening economic conditions.

    “Our members are becoming increasingly frustrated because the outcome of the renegotiation is expected to improve their welfare,” Makolo said.

    Wider education sector warning

    NASU Deputy President, Buhari Suleiman, also urged the government to address deeper challenges in the education sector, including poor funding, insecurity, and infrastructure decay.

    He warned that continued neglect could further weaken the system, calling for urgent reforms to stabilise the sector.

    The development adds fresh tension to Nigeria’s education system and is gaining attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as unions continue pressure on government over welfare demands.

  • FG, Airlines Deadlocked Over Jet Fuel Pricing as Tinubu’s Debt Relief Plan Faces Test

    The Federal Government, airline operators, and fuel marketers have failed to reach an agreement on Jet A1 pricing after an emergency meeting in Abuja, setting a 72-hour window to resolve the standoff.

    Talks end in deadlock

    The meeting, involving the Airlines Operators of Nigeria (AON) and aviation fuel marketers, ended without a resolution, with stakeholders appointing focal representatives to continue negotiations.

    Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the parties would reconvene within 48 to 72 hours to agree on a fair pricing structure.

    “The airlines cannot continue for the next several days with the current prices… they have been stretched to limits,” he said.

    Pressure mounts despite FG intervention

    The deadlock comes shortly after President Bola Tinubu approved a 30 percent debt waiver for airlines, part of broader efforts to cushion the impact of rising operational costs.

    However, stakeholders say the relief may not be enough if fuel pricing remains unresolved.

    Airlines warn of possible shutdown

    Air Peace Chairman and AON representative, Allen Onyema, warned that airlines may be forced to halt operations if urgent action is not taken.

    “No airline is going to be flying in the next seven days if something is not done,” he said.

    He argued that the spike in Jet A1 prices in Nigeria far exceeds global trends, despite international factors like the US-Iran situation.

    “It’s only in Nigeria that we have about 200 to 270 percent increase… while in other parts of the world, it is about 70 percent,” Onyema added.

    Regulator signals possible action

    Keyamo stressed that while the sector operates under a free market system, pricing must remain reasonable.

    “There is a free market… but it is not a licence to go haywire,” he said, hinting at possible regulatory steps if necessary.

    72-hour window to resolve crisis

    Stakeholders are expected to return with recommendations within three days as the government pushes for a resolution to avoid disruption to flight operations.

    The situation continues to dominate latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today, with concerns growing over the impact on air travel and the wider economy.

  • FAAC Shares N2.036trn March Revenue Amid Mixed Oil, Tax Returns

    The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has shared N2.036 trillion among the three tiers of government for March 2026, reflecting a mix of rising tax revenues and declining oil-related earnings.

    How the funds were shared

    The allocation was finalised in Abuja during FAAC’s monthly meeting chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele.

    According to a communiqué issued after the meeting, the federal government received N789.159 billion, states got N657.596 billion, while local government councils were allocated N468.826 billion.

    Oil-producing states also received N120.759 billion as 13 per cent derivation revenue.

    Breakdown of revenue sources

    The distributable sum of N2.036 trillion was drawn from a gross revenue of N2.364 trillion.

    This included N1.320 trillion from statutory revenue, N515.391 billion from Value Added Tax (VAT), and an augmentation of N200 billion.

    From statutory revenue alone, the federal government received N632.260 billion, states got N320.691 billion, while local governments received N247.239 billion.

    VAT distribution details

    Out of the N515.391 billion VAT pool, the federal government received N51.539 billion, states were allocated N283.465 billion, and local governments got N180.387 billion.

    Revenue performance shows mixed trends

    The communiqué revealed that gross statutory revenue rose to N1.699 trillion in March, an increase of N137.914 billion compared to February’s N1.561 trillion.

    However, VAT revenue dipped slightly to N664.425 billion, down by N4.025 billion from the previous month.

    From the total revenue, N81.084 billion was deducted as cost of collection, while N246.872 billion was set aside for transfers, refunds, and savings.

    Taxes rise, oil earnings fall

    In terms of performance, Companies Income Tax (CIT), Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Stamp Duties, and Excise Duties recorded notable increases.

    On the other hand, Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), Hydrocarbon Tax, Oil and Gas Royalties, Import Duty, and Common External Tariff (CET) declined. VAT collections also recorded a slight drop.

    The latest FAAC allocation highlights ongoing shifts in Nigeria’s revenue structure, with stronger tax contributions offsetting weaker oil inflows, a trend that continues to shape latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • FG Moves to Extradite Sylva Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu

    The Federal Government has begun moves to extradite former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, over his alleged involvement in a coup plot targeting President Bola Tinubu, as fresh details emerge in the high-profile case.

    Sylva, who is listed as the seventh defendant in the charge, is reportedly on the run and is currently being tried in absentia, raising concerns about his whereabouts and the pace of proceedings.

    Extradition plan underway

    Sources revealed that authorities have enlisted the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) to help track and return the former minister to Nigeria, in a bid to ensure he faces prosecution alongside other accused persons.

    The move signals a more aggressive push by the government to bring all defendants before the court, especially those currently outside its immediate reach.

    Six defendants to face trial

    Meanwhile, the Federal Government is set to arraign six other suspects before the Federal High Court in Abuja over the same alleged coup plot, marking the next phase of the legal process.

    The defendants include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

    Court proceedings begin

    The suit was filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, on behalf of the Federal Government, as authorities move to prosecute those linked to the alleged plot.

    All six defendants are expected to appear before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja, where proceedings are set to commence.

    Sylva still at large

    Despite being named in the charge, Sylva remains at large, with efforts ongoing to secure his return through international cooperation.

    The case has continued to draw attention as one of the most sensitive security-related prosecutions in recent times.

  • FULL LIST: FG Files Treason, Terrorism Charges Against Buhari’s Former Minister Timipre Sylva, Retired Generals, Police Inspector and Others Over Alleged Coup Plot

    The Federal Government has filed a 13-count charge before the Federal High Court in Abuja against former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, a retired Major General, a retired Naval Captain, a serving police inspector, and several others over their alleged involvement in a plot to wage war against Nigeria and commit acts of terrorism.

    Defendants listed in court

    The accused persons include Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana (retd), Captain (NN) Erasmus Victor (retd), Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

    They are scheduled to be arraigned on Wednesday before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court.

    Timipre Sylva, who served under the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, is currently said to be at large.

    Allegations of treason and terrorism

    The charge was filed by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN).

    It alleges offences ranging from treason and terrorism to failure to disclose security intelligence and money laundering linked to terrorism financing.

    According to the prosecution, the defendants allegedly conspired in 2025 to undermine the Nigerian state.

    They were accused of planning to “levy war against the state to overawe the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” an offence punishable under Section 37(2) of the Criminal Code.

    Failure to report alleged plot

    The Federal Government also claimed that the defendants had prior knowledge of a planned treasonable act involving one Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji and others but failed to report it to authorities.

    They were further accused of failing to take reasonable steps to prevent the alleged offence.

    Terrorism financing allegations

    Beyond treason, the defendants are also facing terrorism-related charges under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

    Prosecutors alleged that they conspired to support and facilitate acts of terrorism, with claims that some meetings were held to advance activities capable of destabilising Nigeria’s constitutional structure.

    Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim and Zekeri Umoru were specifically accused of participating in meetings linked to terrorist planning.

    Money laundering claims

    The charge also includes allegations of terrorism financing and unlawful financial dealings.

    Bukar Kashim Goni is accused of retaining ₦50 million suspected to be proceeds of terrorism financing.

    Abdulkadir Sani allegedly retained ₦2 million, while Zekeri Umoru is accused of handling ₦10 million in cash payments and an additional ₦8.8 million.

    Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim was also accused of receiving ₦1 million allegedly linked to the scheme.

    All financial-related counts were brought under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

    Context

    Nigeria has maintained uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, with peaceful transitions of power over the years. However, concerns over security, insurgency, and alleged coup-related activities continue to surface in political and security discourse.

  • Boko Haram Splinter Group Issues 72-Hour Ultimatum, Threatens to Kill 416 Captives in New Video

    A faction of Boko Haram, Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad, has issued a chilling 72-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian government, threatening to execute 416 captives, mostly women and children, if its demands are not met.

    The threat was contained in a video circulating online, where a masked spokesperson announced that the countdown had begun, warning that any failure to comply would lead to mass executions.

    Ultimatum announced in video

    In the footage, the spokesperson identified the group and its leader, declaring that the message was directed at the Nigerian government and other stakeholders, including the Borno South Youth Alliance.

    He insisted that prior negotiations had already been communicated and warned that no modifications would be tolerated.

    “We are giving you seventy-two (72) hours… if you do not fulfil what we have told you, do not add or change anything,” he said.

    The group added that the ultimatum took effect from April 19, 2026.

    Threat to execute captives

    The insurgents warned that failure to comply would result in the killing of the hostages, claiming they would be “shot” if demands are ignored.

    They also cautioned against any military rescue attempt, insisting such action would worsen the situation.

    “If you attempt to recover them by force… it will only make matters worse,” the spokesperson added.

    The group further stated, “This is not a bluff… we act on what we say.”

    Government yet to respond

    As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Government had not issued any official response to the ultimatum.

    The development has heightened concerns over the safety of the captives, though the exact location and condition of the victims remain unclear.

    Local mediation efforts

    Reacting to the situation, President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, Sama’ila Ibrahim Kaigama, confirmed ongoing efforts to engage authorities for intervention.

    He appealed to top government officials, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, to act swiftly.

    “I am only a mediator… I went to places a lot of youths like me will never go to because I want to save lives,” he said.

    Kaigama also called on influential individuals and stakeholders to support ongoing efforts to secure the release of the captives.

  • FG Bans Import of Poultry, Cement, Drugs from Non-ECOWAS Countries, Introduces 2% Vehicle Tax

    The Federal Government has announced a sweeping ban on the importation of poultry products, cement, pharmaceuticals and several agricultural goods from countries outside the Economic Community of West African States, as part of its 2026 fiscal policy reforms.

    Details of the new directive

    The decision was contained in a circular issued by the Federal Ministry of Finance and signed by the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, dated April 1, 2026.

    According to the document, the affected goods are part of a revised import prohibition list covering 17 items, targeting products originating from non-ECOWAS member states.

    The policy forms part of broader tariff amendments under the 2026 Fiscal Policy Measures, replacing the 2023 framework.

    Grace period for existing importers

    The ministry said importers who had already initiated transactions before the new policy took effect would be given a 90-day window to complete them.

    “In addition, a grace period of ninety (90) days shall be granted to all importers who had opened Form ‘M’ and must have entered into irrevocable Trade Agreement before the coming into effect of this circular,” the statement read.

    It added that any new import transactions from April 1 would fall strictly under the new regime.

    Items affected

    Products listed under the prohibition include poultry, beef and pork, eggs, refined vegetable oils, sugar, cocoa products and tomatoes.

    Also affected are non-alcoholic beverages, bagged cement, certain pharmaceutical products, fertilisers, soaps, detergents, paper materials, glass bottles, steel items, and ballpoint pens.

    New tax on vehicles

    Alongside the import restrictions, the government introduced a two per cent green tax on motor vehicles.

    The levy applies to vehicles with engine capacities between 2009cc and above 4000cc, as part of efforts to align with environmental and fiscal policies.

    The ministry noted that the new measures will be formally published in the Official Federal Government Gazette.

     

  • VeryDarkMan Reacts to FG’s Reintegration of 744 Ex-Terrorists, Questions Justice for Victims and Soldiers

    Popular Nigerian social media critic VeryDarkMan has reacted strongly to the Federal Government’s decision to reintegrate 744 repentant terrorists into society, sparking fresh debate over Nigeria’s deradicalisation strategy.

    FG confirms reintegration of 744 ex-insurgents

    The Federal Government recently confirmed that 744 former insurgents who completed the deradicalisation programme under Operation Safe Corridor in Gombe State have been reintegrated into society.

    The announcement was made on April 17, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to stabilise Nigeria’s North-East region, which has been heavily affected by Boko Haram-linked violence over the years.

    The ex-combatants, drawn from states including Borno, Yobe, Kano, and Adamawa, reportedly underwent months of rehabilitation, psychological counselling, vocational training, and civic education aimed at preparing them for civilian life.

    Military explains rehabilitation programme

    Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, clarified that the initiative is not an amnesty programme but a structured deradicalisation process designed to reduce violence and discourage future recruitment into extremist groups.

    He also urged communities to support the reintegrated individuals as they attempt to rebuild their lives.

    VeryDarkMan kicks against move

    Reacting via social media, VeryDarkMan condemned the development, describing it as unfair to victims of insurgency and Nigerian soldiers who have lost their lives in the conflict.

    He questioned the government’s approach, arguing that repeated rehabilitation and release of former fighters raises concerns about accountability and justice.

    Concerns over monitoring system

    The critic also raised doubts about the effectiveness of monitoring mechanisms for reintegrated individuals, warning that some could relapse into criminal activity if economic incentives from rehabilitation programmes are not sustainable.

    His comments have triggered widespread reactions online, with Nigerians divided over whether rehabilitation should take priority over stricter punitive measures in addressing insecurity.

    https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXObzDujL2T/?igsh=YzljYTk1ODg3Zg==

  • Nigeria Won’t Seek IMF Loan Despite $50bn Support Plan, Edun Declares

    The Federal Government has ruled out any plan to approach the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for financial support, despite the fund’s proposal to make up to $50 billion available to struggling economies, including countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

    Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, made this known on Thursday during a press briefing at the ongoing World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings in Washington DC.

    Government takes firm stance

    Edun stated clearly that Nigeria is not considering taking on additional debt from the IMF at this time.

    “Nigeria has no plan at the moment to approach the IMF for any other such burden,” he said while responding to questions from journalists.

    His comments come a day after the IMF disclosed plans to provide between $20 billion and $50 billion in financial support to vulnerable economies in the near term.

    Why IMF funding is on the table

    According to the IMF, the proposed support will cover both expansions of existing programmes and new funding requests from at least a dozen countries, many of them in Africa.

    The move is aimed at cushioning the economic impact of global challenges, including the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

    Pressure on African economies

    Edun, however, noted that African countries are facing increasing economic pressure despite not being directly responsible for the global crisis.

    He explained that the situation threatens macroeconomic stability, slows growth, and weakens efforts to reduce poverty across the continent.

    “They need and deserve extra help at this time,” the minister said, referring to vulnerable economies, particularly oil-importing nations.

    IMF warns of global slowdown

    IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva also raised concerns about the wider economic impact of global tensions, especially the Middle East conflict.

    She warned that disruptions to supply chains and rising oil prices could slow global growth significantly.

    According to her, global growth is projected to drop from 3.4 percent last year to about 2.1 percent in 2026, with a worst-case scenario of 2 percent if the crisis persists.

    What it means for Nigeria

    While Nigeria is opting out of immediate IMF borrowing, the government’s position suggests a focus on managing existing economic challenges without adding to its debt burden.

    The decision also highlights ongoing concerns about fiscal sustainability and the long-term impact of external loans on the country’s economy.

  • FG Moves Credential Verification Online, Ends Physical Visits Nationwide

    The Federal Government has fully digitised the authentication and evaluation of academic credentials, directing all applicants to process requests online as part of efforts to improve transparency and service delivery in Nigeria’s education sector.

    How the new system works

    In a statement dated April 15, 2026, the Federal Ministry of Education said all applications will now be handled strictly through its official verification portal.

    Applicants are required to register and upload relevant documents via the platform, while academic transcripts must be sent directly by institutions through official email channels for verification.

    End of physical verification

    The ministry made it clear that applicants no longer need to visit its offices for physical verification, as the entire process has been automated.

    Officials say the shift is designed to simplify procedures, reduce delays, and improve data integrity across the system.

    Why the change was introduced

    According to the ministry, the move aligns with the Federal Government’s broader digital transformation agenda and aims to enhance efficiency, ensure data accuracy, and support evidence-based decision-making in the education sector.

    What applicants should know

    Applicants have been advised to strictly follow the new guidelines to avoid delays in processing.

    The ministry also provided official communication channels for enquiries, stressing the need for compliance to ensure smooth and timely verification.

    What it means going forward

    Authorities say the transition to a fully digital platform is expected to strengthen the credibility of academic credential verification in Nigeria, while reducing bottlenecks that previously affected the process.

    Screenshot