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UK lawmaker lauds EFCC, says Africa underestimates its strength
UK lawmaker lauds EFCC, says Africa underestimates its strength
In a significant boost to Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has received international recognition for its tireless work in tackling corruption.
Baroness Verma Sandy of Leicester, a member of the United Kingdom’s House of Lords, has commended the EFCC for its dedication to fighting corruption and promoting good governance in Nigeria.
During a visit to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Friday, Baroness Verma Sandy praised the Commission’s new leadership under Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, for repositioning the organization on the path of professionalism and effectiveness.
She expressed confidence that the EFCC’s efforts would help change the global perception of Africa and build new confidence in the continent.
The Baroness, who led a six-man delegation of the UK-based African Leadership Organisation, acknowledged the EFCC’s efforts in shaping better narratives for Nigeria and praised the Commission’s innovative approaches to tackling corruption.
She emphasized the importance of international collaboration in the fight against corruption and encouraged the EFCC to continue its good work.
Sandy said: “We are so glad to be here. It is important having this organization led by somebody who has brought incredible positive changes to the country. And I want to thank all of your colleagues here for engaging with us today. I believe passionately on the strength of the African Continent. I am not connected at all to Africa, but I have been a champion for a continent that has under-estimated its own strength but has got so much to offer the world. And I think your organization will help change the perceptions and build new confidence. So, I am so pleased and honoured to be here.”
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EFCC Chairman, Mr. Olukoyede, thanked the Baroness and her delegation for identifying with the Commission and acknowledging its efforts.
He reiterated the EFCC’s commitment to tackling corruption and promoting good governance, emphasizing that corruption is a major obstacle to Africa’s development.
He highlighted the Commission’s new focus on prevention and addressing systemic issues that enable corruption, as well as its efforts to stimulate economic growth and prevent foreign exchange sharp practices.
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Tinubu Declares End to “Broken Revenue System”, Unveils New Economic Reforms
Tinubu Declares End to “Broken Revenue System”, Unveils New Economic Reforms
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria has entered a new phase of economic transformation, insisting that the country will no longer operate a “broken, inefficient and unfair revenue system” as his administration intensifies fiscal and tax reforms.
Tinubu made the remarks in Abuja during the commissioning of the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) headquarters, where he reaffirmed that ongoing reforms are aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s tax system, improving revenue generation, and restoring public confidence in governance.
He described the reforms as a “covenant with Nigerians,” stressing that they are not political rhetoric but a deliberate effort to rebuild the country’s economic foundations and ensure long-term stability.
According to him, Nigeria is gradually transitioning “from uncertainty to renewed hope” through structural reforms designed to improve efficiency, fairness, and transparency in revenue administration.
The President emphasized that no country can achieve sustainable development with a weak fiscal structure, adding that his administration deliberately embarked on overhauling the system to eliminate leakages, improve compliance, and ensure that national revenue is effectively deployed for development.
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“No nation achieves lasting prosperity on a weak and fragmented revenue system,” Tinubu said, adding that government must earn public trust through a fair and transparent tax structure.
He noted that the reforms are focused on simplifying tax processes, reducing distortions, and creating a more investment-friendly environment that encourages both local and foreign investors.
Tinubu also highlighted early signs of progress, pointing to improvements in fiscal stability, stronger reserves, and increased investor confidence as indicators that the reforms are beginning to yield results.
He attributed these gains to what he called “deliberate policy choices and national discipline,” insisting that the government remains committed to long-term structural changes rather than short-term economic fixes.
The President described the newly commissioned NRS headquarters as a symbol of institutional renewal and administrative efficiency, noting that it represents more than just a physical structure.
“This building is more than concrete and steel. It is a symbol of professionalism, transparency, efficiency and service delivery,” he said.
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Tinubu also tasked the Nigerian Revenue Service with evolving beyond revenue collection into a trust-building institution that reflects accountability and fairness in its operations. He stressed that taxpayers must see clear value for their contributions through improved public services and national development.
“The Nigerian Revenue Service must not only collect revenue, it must build trust,” he said, adding that institutions must demonstrate integrity and responsiveness to citizens.
He further acknowledged the challenges associated with economic reforms, noting that while such policies may cause short-term hardship, they are necessary for long-term prosperity and national stability.
Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of ongoing reforms, saying sustainable development requires shared sacrifice and collective commitment.
The President also reiterated that Nigeria’s future depends on deliberate policy choices and strong institutions capable of driving inclusive growth and global competitiveness.
“We have chosen reform, we have chosen discipline, we have chosen progress,” he said. “We will stay the course until the promise of Nigeria is matched by the performance of its institutions.”
The commissioning of the NRS headquarters marks a key milestone in the federal government’s broader economic reforms in Nigeria, particularly in tax administration and public finance management, as authorities push to diversify revenue sources beyond oil dependence.
Tinubu Declares End to “Broken Revenue System”, Unveils New Economic Reforms
News
JAMB 2026: Police Dismiss Threat Rumours, Deploy Nationwide Security for UTME Centres
JAMB 2026: Police Dismiss Threat Rumours, Deploy Nationwide Security for UTME Centres
The Nigeria Police Force has ramped up security preparations ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), dismissing circulating reports of threats to candidates as false while deploying personnel and rapid response teams across the country.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Force spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the police were aware of “recent unfounded rumours” concerning the safety of examination centres, particularly in parts of the North-Central region. He stressed that the claims lack credibility and should be disregarded by the public.
According to the police, there is no verified intelligence pointing to planned attacks on UTME centres. However, the Force noted that concerns raised by Nigerians—especially regarding the safety of candidates—have been taken seriously, prompting proactive measures to ensure a secure environment nationwide.
To guarantee security at UTME centres, the police confirmed the deployment of both overt and covert personnel, including rapid response teams, patrol units, and surveillance operatives positioned strategically across examination venues. These efforts are aimed at preventing disruptions and ensuring a smooth conduct of the examination.
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The UTME, organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is scheduled to commence on April 16, 2026. As one of the most critical examinations in Nigeria, the JAMB 2026 UTME will see hundreds of thousands of candidates sit for entry into tertiary institutions nationwide.
The police further disclosed ongoing collaboration with other security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and response coordination. Authorities warned that any individual or group attempting to disrupt the examination process would be identified and dealt with decisively.
Candidates and parents were reassured of adequate security during JAMB exams, with advice for candidates to arrive early at their centres, comply with all examination regulations, and promptly report any suspicious activity to security personnel.
The Force also cautioned against spreading misinformation, emphasizing that fake security alerts could create panic and undermine public confidence. Nigerians were urged to rely solely on verified updates from the police and JAMB.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Nigeria Police stated that safeguarding lives, property, and national activities remains a top priority, assuring the public of a peaceful and orderly examination process across the country.
JAMB 2026: Police Dismiss Threat Rumours, Deploy Nationwide Security for UTME Centres
News
Akpabio: Insecurity in Nigeria Will End Two Weeks After Elections
Akpabio: Insecurity in Nigeria Will End Two Weeks After Elections
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has attributed Nigeria’s rising insecurity to political activities ahead of upcoming elections, expressing confidence that the situation will subside shortly after the polls. Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja at the commissioning of the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) Corporate Headquarters, Akpabio said the surge in violence is being driven by individuals allegedly sponsoring unrest due to desperation linked to the electoral process.
According to him, Nigeria insecurity, election violence, and political unrest are interconnected, stressing that the trend will reverse once elections are concluded. He stated that within two weeks after the elections, insecurity across the country would significantly reduce, insisting that those behind the acts are politically motivated. His comments come amid growing concerns over banditry in Nigeria, terrorism, and kidnappings, which continue to affect several regions.
Akpabio also strongly defended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the government is making progress despite criticism. He argued that opponents of the administration, unable to counter its performance, are resorting to sponsoring instability. The Senate President urged Nigerians to remain patient, noting that ongoing reforms under the current government would yield positive results.
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Taking a swipe at the opposition, Akpabio suggested that it is fragmented and lacks direction. In an apparent reference to Peter Obi, he criticised what he described as political inconsistency, claiming that opposition figures are abandoning their platforms while blaming the ruling party for the country’s challenges.
The Senate President also used the occasion to commend the Executive Chairman of the NRS, Zacch Adedeji, describing him as a tax administrator widely accepted by Nigerians. He noted that unlike traditional perceptions of tax officials, Adedeji has earned public trust and is driving reforms in the country’s revenue system.
The high-profile event was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. Several governors were also present, including Babagana Zulum, Charles Soludo, Caleb Mutfwang, Hope Uzodimma, and Usman Ododo.
The newly commissioned Nigerian Revenue Service headquarters is described as a world-class facility designed to enhance tax administration in Nigeria and boost revenue generation. The complex features three towers spanning 16 floors, with capacity to accommodate about 3,000 personnel. The development follows the signing of the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act in June 2025 by President Tinubu, transforming the former FIRS into the NRS as part of broader economic reforms in Nigeria.
Akpabio’s remarks have sparked debate among analysts and stakeholders, with many questioning the claim that insecurity is largely politically sponsored. While the Senate President maintains that the end of elections will bring relief, experts argue that addressing Nigeria security challenges requires deeper structural reforms beyond the political cycle.
Akpabio: Insecurity in Nigeria Will End Two Weeks After Elections
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