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Ensure effective, equitable tax system for all Nigerians – Gov Oyebanji to JTB
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji has called on members of the Joint Tax Board, JTB, the apex body for all tax authorities in Nigeria, to ensure effective and equitable tax system in the country, to ensure the fulfillment of the Tax Reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Governor stated this at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Joint Tax Board Strategic Retreat held at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, Ikogosi-Ekiti on Friday.
Governor Oyebanji noted that the importance of a robust tax system in driving economic growth and citizens’ welfare cannot be over emphasized, commending Tinubu for proposing a far-reaching reform aimed at lifting the living standards of citizens.
He explained that the key objectives of the bill are aimed at deepening the tax base, enhancing revenue mobilization, simplifying compliance procedures, fostering transparency and accountability across revenue agencies, as well as encouraging digitalization in tax administration.
He added that the implementation of the bill in 2026 will reshape the process of revenue mobilization and delivery of sustainable development.
Governor Oyebanji charged participants at the retreat, including Executive Chairmen of Internal Revenue Services of the 36 states of the federation, to effectively deliberate on the implications of the law to national development, which he described as a pivotal shift towards a resilient and self-reliant economy to achieve transformative policy.
“With the signing of these Tax Reform Bills by the President, and the planned commencement of implementation starting from January 2026, we have been presented with a historic opportunity to reshape how our country mobilizes revenue, fosters compliance, and delivers sustainable development.
“The courage and vision of Mr President deserve our highest commendation as we align with his determination to reposition Nigeria for greatness. These reforms will shape the trajectory of Nigeria’s economy for years to come.
In his remarks, the Chairman, Joint Tax Board, Mr Zacch Adedeji, who commended Governor Oyebanji providing effective leadership for internal revenue service to thrive in the state, noted that the theme of the retreat, “Re-imagining the Nigeria tax eco-system: harnessing the four tax reform laws as game changers in tax administration” was apt and critically chosen to enforce President Tinubu’s tax reform nationally.
Adedeji, who was represented by the Coordinating Director of Federal Internal Revenue Service Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar. commended Ekiti State citizens for their voluntary compliance to tax payment because of the performance of the Governor whom he said has done the right thing by investing the people’s money on their welfare which helped in moving the internally generated revenue of the state high.
The Chairman, Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Olaniran Olatona expressed appreciation to Governor Oyebanji who had been a pillar of support to the process of internally generated revenue in the state which he promised to effectively used for the development of the state and which have brought about voluntary compliance to tax payment by residents of the state.
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s security, saying he feels perfectly safe during his visit to the country. His remarks come amid ongoing reports of insecurity in various parts of Nigeria, making his statement a notable endorsement of the nation’s stability in certain regions.
Johnson made the declaration on Thursday, December 4, 2025, while addressing participants at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri, the state capital. He acknowledged having read travel advisories and news reports highlighting security concerns prior to his trip but said his experience has been reassuring.
He said he feels perfectly safe in the country and emphasized that the summit environment and local hospitality contributed to his sense of security. He also asked the audience if they felt safe, receiving an enthusiastic affirmation.
During his visit, Johnson commended Governor Hope Uzodimma and the Imo State Government for their development initiatives, particularly efforts to provide 24-hour electricity. He highlighted the potential of Nigeria as a hub for innovation and economic growth, noting the opportunities presented by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
While his statements have been welcomed by some as a boost to international confidence in Nigeria, analysts caution that the former prime minister’s experience reflects only a controlled and secure environment within Imo State. Several parts of the country continue to face challenges, including banditry, communal conflicts, and kidnappings.
Nonetheless, Johnson’s visit and remarks are significant, sending a positive message to investors and global observers about Nigeria’s potential for stability and progress. They also underscore the contrast between localized experiences of safety and broader security challenges across the country.
By Emmanuel Iheaka, OWERRI
The President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote has assured Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State that his group will be one of the biggest investors in the state.
Dangote gave the assurance at the opening session of the Imo Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri on Thursday.
The renowned Africa’s industrialist urged Uzodimma to indicate his preferred area of investment and forget the rest.
Dangote described the Imo governor as a personal friend of decades and commended him for providing enabling environment for investment.
“We will be one of your biggest investors in Imo. So, please tell me the area to invest and we will invest”, Dangote declared.
He called on entrepreneurs to always invest at home, adding that foreigners cannot drive the economy of any nation more than the nationals.
“What attracts foreign investors is a domestic investor. Africa has about 30 percent of the world’s minerals. We are blessed,” he submitted.
Dangote reiterated that his refinery was set to launch 1.4 million barrels per day capacity, the highest for any single refinery in the world.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday declined to accept Prince Emmanuel Kanu’s appearance on behalf of his brother, Nnamdi Kanu, ruling that he is not a legal practitioner.
Boris Johnson Says He Feels “Perfectly Safe” in Nigeria, Praises Imo State’s Progress
Dangote to Uzodimma: Just show me where to invest
Judge rejects Nnamdi Kanu’s brother court appearance
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