Onyema made this call as he received the Aviation Industry Trailblazer for the Decade, 2024 award in Abuja.
Onyema made this call as he received the Aviation Industry Trailblazer for the Decade, 2024 award in Abuja.The Chairman of Air Peace was presented the award by Director of Corporate Services at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, Ali Yu Ibrahim, who celebrated Onyema’s outstanding contributions to the aviation sector.

Onyema, who has been instrumental in revolutionising Nigeria’s air transport landscape, was celebrated for his leadership and dedication to improving air travel accessibility, safety and customer experience in Africa.

Under his stewardship, Air Peace has grown into a leading airline in West Africa, setting benchmarks for operational excellence.

In his speech, Onyema expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasising that it was a testament to his team’s hard work and resilience.

He said: “This award is not just for me; it is for every member of the Air Peace family and for the entire Nigerian aviation industry

Source :Vanguard

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Adebehinje’s disposition fuels the optimism that has seen thousands of Nigerians of all ages and profession relocate abroad in the increasingly infective ‘japa syndrome’.

‘They don’t love Nigeria’
The effects of this trend on Nigeria also increase in direct proportion.

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November 23, 2024

Canada japa
AI-generated image for illustration.

Canada-based Sunday Samuel Adebehinje has revealed what it cost him to relocate abroad. Although the sum, $28,000 (nearly N50 million) is huge, “It’s worth it,” he told Vanguard.

Adebehinje’s disposition fuels the optimism that has seen thousands of Nigerians of all ages and profession relocate abroad in the increasingly infective ‘japa syndrome’.

‘They don’t love Nigeria’
The effects of this trend on Nigeria also increase in direct proportion.

A few days ago, the Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, OOU, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Prof. Ayodeji Agboola, warned that the increasing wave of emigration of Nigerians abroad, otherwise called japa syndrome, posed serious challenge to the nation’s socio-economic development.

The Vice-Chancellor challenged Nigerian sociologists and academics to be at the forefront of strategic efforts to reverse the exodus of youths and other citizens from the country.

His words: “Let’s stop deceiving ourselves. If they (foreign countries) love us, they won’t be taking our best brains away.”

Read the full story HERE.

There’s boredom and challenging weather, but… – Adebehinje
Let’s get back to Canada-based Sunday Samuel Adebehinje.

He told Vanguard: “I left Nigeria for Canada in 2023. Although I’m married, I didn’t relocate with my family.”

Asked how much it cost him to japa to Canada, Samuel said: “It cost me $28,000. And education brought me here.”
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November 23, 2024

I spent $28,000 to Japa, but no regrets – Canada-based Adebehinje

Canada japa
AI-generated image for illustration.

Canada-based Sunday Samuel Adebehinje has revealed what it cost him to relocate abroad. Although the sum, $28,000 (nearly N50 million) is huge, “It’s worth it,” he told Vanguard.

Adebehinje’s disposition fuels the optimism that has seen thousands of Nigerians of all ages and profession relocate abroad in the increasingly infective ‘japa syndrome’.

‘They don’t love Nigeria’
The effects of this trend on Nigeria also increase in direct proportion.

A few days ago, the Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, OOU, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Prof. Ayodeji Agboola, warned that the increasing wave of emigration of Nigerians abroad, otherwise called japa syndrome, posed serious challenge to the nation’s socio-economic development.

The Vice-Chancellor challenged Nigerian sociologists and academics to be at the forefront of strategic efforts to reverse the exodus of youths and other citizens from the country.

His words: “Let’s stop deceiving ourselves. If they (foreign countries) love us, they won’t be taking our best brains away.”

Read the full story HERE.

There’s boredom and challenging weather, but… – Adebehinje
Let’s get back to Canada-based Sunday Samuel Adebehinje.

He told Vanguard: “I left Nigeria for Canada in 2023. Although I’m married, I didn’t relocate with my family.”

Asked how much it cost him to japa to Canada, Samuel said: “It cost me $28,000. And education brought me here.”

Although the amount is relatively high (almost N50 million), Samuel said: “It’s worth it.”

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He was an architect in Nigeria. However, in Canada, he’s a machine operator alongside his educational pursuits.

According to Samuel, the only challenges for him are boredom and the weather. Inspite of these challenges, he cherishes the exposure provided by the country. Also, he said, there’s the opportunity to meet people and network.

He looks forward to visiting his family here in Nigeria.

Tellingly, he would “definitely help” others to Japa to Canada if he has the means.

Source :Vanguard

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The President made this assurance in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, during the signing of a Letter of Intent between the Nigerian Government and JBS S.A., one of the three largest meat processing companies globally.

He stated, “What we are doing right now is solving a problem that has afflicted humanity in that part of Africa—clashes between farmers and migrating cattle that have caused loss of life and bloodshed—when there is a modern, civilized way to address these issues and even create a successful economy from them.”
“We are trying to turn a situation of tragedy and hopelessness into economic opportunity, to see through problems and recognize the potential they hold.”

He stated, “What we are doing right now is solving a problem that has afflicted humanity in that part of Africa—clashes between farmers and migrating cattle that have caused loss of life and bloodshed—when there is a modern, civilized way to address these issues and even create a successful economy from them.”
“We are trying to turn a situation of tragedy and hopelessness into economic opportunity, to see through problems and recognize the potential they hold.”The Nigerian leader urged the company to recognize the significant potential in what he described as the $2.5 billion livestock investment opportunities in Nigeria, particularly given the country’s large population. He emphasized JBS S.A.’s globally recognized expertise in ensuring food security.

“We’ve heard so much about your reputation, and we believe in the partnership we are forging today. Food security is extremely important. As we speak, there is hunger. However, there is also great hope, and you are one of those hopes that we are looking at.”

President Tinubu assured the top executives of JBS that Nigeria is ready to do business with them and promised a good return on their investment.

Before his visit to Brazil, the President had commissioned a team of Nigerian officials and private sector representatives to take advantage of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio to conduct a study tour of São Paulo, Brazil, and explore opportunities in livestock development, meat processing, and seed development and multiplication for key grains.
Source :Vanguard

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Data from FMDQ showed that the indicative exchange rate for NAFEM fell to N1,652.62 per dollar from N1,658.67 per dollar on Thursday, indicating N6.05 appreciation for the naira.

The market recorded an intraday high of N1,703 per dollar and an intraday low of N1,640 per dollar
The volume of dollars traded (turnover) grew by 48.5 percent to $243.05 million from $163.66 million traded on Thursday.

The market recorded an intraday high of N1,703 per dollar and an intraday low of N1,640 per dollar
The volume of dollars traded (turnover) grew by 48.5 percent to $243.05 million from $163.66 million traded on Thursday.Consequently, the margin between the parallel market and NAFEM rate widened to N97.38 per dollar from N86.33 per dollar on Thursday.

Source :Vanguard

The post Naira depreciates to N1,750/$ in parallel market appeared first on News Flash.

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November 23, 2024

North vs FG: The fight over Nigeria’s tax reform bill

A battle is brewing between Northern political elites and the Federal Government over proposed tax reforms that could reshape Nigeria’s revenue distribution. At the center of the controversy is a change to the Value Added Tax (VAT) system, sparking concerns from various quarters.

The heart of the dispute is the proposed amendment to the VAT Act, which would allocate VAT revenue based on the “derivation principle.” Under this system, VAT funds would be distributed to states based on where goods and services are consumed and where businesses generating the tax are headquartered. Northern leaders argue that this model would unfairly disadvantage them, as many major companies are based in Southern states.

The North’s Concern
Northern governors fear the reform would drastically reduce their share of VAT revenue. They argue that the South, where most consumption occurs, would receive a larger portion, further widening the economic gap between regions.

Senator Kawu Samaila of Kano South District has voiced these concerns, stating that issues facing the North extend beyond mere tax reforms and need to be addressed through comprehensive dialogue.

“The challenges affecting economic development in the North go beyond mere tax reforms. It is essential for us to engage in meaningful discussions. Our critical issues in the region extend beyond VAT,” he said.
Dr. Majeed Dahiru, a public affairs analyst, believes that the opposition from Northern governors is not a blanket rejection of the reform but a direct challenge to the shift in VAT distribution.

“The Northern governors, along with traditional and regional leaders, have concerns about the distribution of VAT based on a derivation model. This means some VAT may be returned to the regions where it was generated. This is their core issue. I don’t think they oppose expanding the tax base or increasing taxes, which would boost their revenues. The concern is that using the derivation model for revenue distribution could result in some states receiving less than they currently do.

“However, the proposal to distribute VAT—a consumption tax—based on the derivation principle represents one of the most progressive pieces of legislation in Nigeria’s history regarding revenue allocation. I would recommend expanding this approach to include corporate and personal income taxes,” he explains.

The Case for the Reform
While the Northern elite see the reform as a threat, others argue that the current system is unfair. Advocates of the change believe VAT should reflect actual consumption locations. Some Northern states prohibit certain goods like alcohol, and proponents suggest they should not benefit from VAT generated by products they do not allow.

Baba Yusuf, a policy analyst and former Managing Director of NAHCO Free Trade Zone, expressed disappointment in the Northern elite’s stance, calling it a transactional approach that prioritizes short-term gains over long-term progress. He emphasized that the reform’s reliance on the derivation principle could stimulate productivity and fairness by aligning revenue with actual consumption.

“I am disappointed with the mindset and outlook of the Northern elite, particularly the Northern governors. Their approach is highly transactional rather than strategic. I advocate for resource allocation based on derivation, as it drives productivity. This rent-seeking and commission-collection attitude cannot move us forward; it will only push out those who have no business in government.

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“Leaders must adopt a mindset of value creation, protection, and innovation to effectively guide their people. With all due respect, there should be some forward-thinking among them. In my view, the opposition to the tax reform bill is not in the best interest of Northerners or Nigerians.”

A Political Debate

Meanwhile, the debate has taken on a political tone. Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise and former Director General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), acknowledged the political undertones.

He said, “in my view, this issue is more political than economic. It’s a natural reaction. They are proposing an amendment that would disadvantage you, so it’s understandable to reject it. I’m not surprised by this reaction, as the bulk of the VAT is generated from the southern part of the country. The percentage contribution from the northern region is not significant.

Therefore, if the allocation favors derivation, it will naturally benefit the South. That’s why I believe it’s more of a political issue that we need to manage carefully. Personally, I think we should let sleeping dogs lie and leave the situation as it is,” Dr. Yusuf added.

A Growing Distrust
As the debate intensifies, some activists, like Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi, Executive Director of the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED), argue that the opposition to the reforms is symptomatic of larger issues: widespread public distrust in the government.

“We face several pressing issues, including the removal of subsidies and the devaluation of the Naira, which remain unresolved. Electricity charges are excessively high. From telephone calls to everyday necessities, nothing is easy in this country. If we examine the so-called tax reforms, we find they often come with deceptive names implying benefits for the people. For instance, the tax rate itself has been increased to 10%. The language used to describe these reforms may mask the reality, suggesting they aim to revive the economy. In truth, the government’s intent seems focused on collecting more.

“When the fuel subsidy was removed, we were assured it would lead to improvements in public transport and other services. Yet, with the Naira’s decline, we face increased prices at fuel stations daily. Whatever reforms the government claims to pursue, it is crucial they first address the widespread distrust. People no longer take the government seriously; initiatives are viewed with suspicion due to a lack of sincerity and transparency.

“The government has urged citizens to tighten their belts, promising improvements, but we have witnessed excessive spending on public budgets and renovations of government properties. There seems to be little benefit for the people.

“This concern is not just for northern elders or citizens; it’s a national issue. Those in power were elected by a diverse electorate, and the policies they impose affect everyone. Whether one identifies with a particular political party or region, we all face the same economic challenges imposed by a government perceived as heartless,” he stated.

A Call for Dialogue
Despite heated opposition, there is hope for resolution. Senator Kawu Samaila calls for continued dialogue, urging all parties to understand each other’s perspectives.

“As lawmakers, we need to understand the grey areas and complexities of the tax reform bill. This process involves discussion, dialogue, and persuasion. We must come together to understand each other’s perspectives and reach a consensus that benefits Nigerians,” he added.

As the fight over the tax reform bill continues, the outcome will shape Nigeria’s economic future. The question remains: can the North and the Federal Government reach a compromise, or will this divide deepen? It’s time for all Nigerians to engage with the issues at stake and ask: What kind of fiscal future do we want for our country?.

Source :Vanguard

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Obasanjo made this assertion during a memorial service held at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Agodi, in Ibadan, Oyo State, to honor the late Justice Olayinka Ayoola (retd.), former Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). Justice Ayoola passed away on August 20, 2024, at the age of 90.

Speaking at the event, the former President highlighted the challenges of combating corruption in Nigeria, noting its pervasive influence.

“Corruption is a formidable adversary that continues to plague our nation. It is not about whether the ICPC or Justice Ayoola performed their duties; it is about the relentless pressure of this insidious cancer we grapple with,” Obasanjo stated.

In his tribute, Obasanjo praised Justice Ayoola as a man of integrity and dedication who significantly contributed to Nigeria, Africa, and the global community.

“We celebrate the life of a great man who has left an indelible mark on our society,” Obasanjo said.

Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, also paid glowing tributes to the late Ayoola, urging attendees to reflect on their legacies.

“Justice Ayoola has left an enduring legacy, raising the flag of Nigeria high in every role he undertook. His absence will be deeply felt,” she said.

The Bishop of the Diocese of Agodi, Revd Simeon Onaleke, delivered a sermon titled “Serving God’s Purpose in Our Generation,” urging legislative action to prevent corrupt politicians from returning to power.Let us focus on creating a legacy that others will remember,” he said. “Justice Ayoola fought many battles—not with weapons, but through his integrity and dedicationThe memorial service attracted an array of dignitaries, including the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Hajo Sarki Bello; Oyo State Chief Judge Justice Iyabo Yerima; and other prominent figures such as Dr. Emmanuel Olanrewaju Ayoola and Ambassador Godwin Adama.Justice Ayoola was lauded for his unwavering commitment to justice and the fight against corruption, leaving behind a legacy of integrity that will continue to inspire future generations.

Source :Vanguard

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The volume of dollars traded (turnover) declined by 5.5 per cent to $163.66 million from $173.29 million traded on Wednesday.

Consequently, the margin between the parallel market and NAFEM rates widened to N86.33 per dollar from N52.48 per dollar on Wednesday.

Source:Vanguard

The post Naira depreciates to N1,745/$ in parallel market appeared first on News Flash.

Two-thirds of households lack money for healthy food — NBS survey

Two-thirds of households lack money for healthy food — NBS survey
•Households experience 6.7 weekly power blackouts

By Elizabeth Adegbesan

In an apparent reflection of the multidimensional poverty in the country and the impact of continuous reduction in the purchasing power of Nigerians due to rising prices of goods and services, two-thirds of households in the country lack money to eat healthy, nutritious food, a survey by the National Bureau of Statistics, NBS has revealed.

The survey also showed that households in the country experience 6.7 power blackouts every week.
The NBS survey titled, “Nigeria General Household Survey – Panel (GHS-Panel) Wave 5 (2023/2024). examines demographics, education, and health trends in Nigeria, comparing data from Wave 4 (2018/19) and Wave 5 (2023/24).

On food insecurity, the survey report stated: “Approximately two out of three households indicated being unable to eat healthy, nutritious or preferred foods because of lack of money in the last 30 days.

Similarly, 63.8 per cent of households ate only a few kinds of food due to lack of money, 62.4 percent were worried about not having enough food to eat, and 60.5 percent ate less than they thought they should.

“Between Waves 4 and 5, the proportion of households that reported being worried about not having enough food to eat because of lack of money increased significantly, from 36.9 percent to 62.4 percent.”

On access to energy, the NBS survey revealed that “82.2 percent of urban households have electricity, compared to 40.4 per cent in rural areas.

Nigerian households face an average of 6.7 power blackouts weekly.

“Cooking typically involves traditional three-stone stoves (65.0 percent), primarily using wood as fuel (70.2 per cent), but with use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) rising significantly.

Many households lack toilet facilities and rely on tube wells or boreholes for drinking water. Waste disposal is mostly informal, with 45.6 percent of households using bushes or streets.”On asset ownership, the survey revealed that, “Overall asset ownership has declined since 2018/19. However, two-thirds of households have mobile phones, and about 21.3 percent access the Internet.

“The survey shows that 70.4 percent of households own their homes, with rural ownership at 80.1 percent, compared to 49.1 per cent in urban areas.

Source :Vanguard

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Defence chief seeks extradition of Simon Ekpa

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has expressed optimism that Finland will extradite Simon Ekpa, a factional leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to Nigeria to face justice. This follows Ekpa’s arrest in Finland on Thursday.

General Musa conveyed his satisfaction with the arrest, emphasising its potential as a significant step towards bringing Ekpa to justice for his alleged role in orchestrating violence in Nigeria’s South-East region.

In a statement issued on his behalf by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Musa said: “The CDS is happy with his arrest in Finland, with the hope this will be a step towards his extradition to Nigeria so that he will face justice.”

Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, further commented that the Defence Chief had consistently called for Ekpa’s arrest, citing his “deep involvement in fuelling terrorism in South-East Nigeria.”

Background:

Ekpa is accused of coordinating violent actions against civilians and authorities in Nigeria’s South-East region from Finland, using social media platforms to further his agenda.

Detective Chief Inspector Otto Hiltunen, who leads the investigation, revealed, “The man has carried out this activity, among other things, on his social media channels.”

The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation disclosed that Ekpa, alongside the other suspects, two of whom reside in Helsinki, faces charges of financing terrorism.

This is not the first time Ekpa has encountered Finnish authorities. In 2023, he was briefly detained on allegations of fundraising fraud.

Ekpa has also gained notoriety for his separatist rhetoric, particularly his calls to disrupt Nigerian elections.In 2023, he declared in a widely circulated social media video, “No elections will be held! Nigerian elections will not be allowed in Biafran territory.”

Finnish police stated that international cooperation has been crucial to the ongoing investigation, with hearings for the suspects scheduled for Thursday.

Source :Vanguard

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Enugu State Government has embarked on massive training for some livestock farmers in the state on the procedures and use of modern artificial insemination equipment, both practical and theoretical.

The training, which will commence on November 24, 2024, and end on December 9, 2024, at the National Animal Production Research Institute, is one of the mechanisms put in place by the administration of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah to grow the economy of the state.

Addressing all the prospective trainees on Thursday in the L-PRES office ahead of their takeoff, the State Project Coordinator, Dr. Ifeyinwa Nnajieze, said Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah wants to diversify the state’s economy using the livestock business.

Narrating the importance of L-PRES to the state and why Governor Peter Ndubuisi has invested so much, Dr. Nnajieze said, “L-PRES came to enhance agricultural output in the state,” adding that a lot has been put in place to enhance livestock production in the state.

“We are here to enhance livestock productivity in the state. L-PRES has five components such as Institutional and Innovation System Strengthening, Livestock Value Chain Enhancement, Crisis Prevention and Conflict Mitigation, Project Coordination and Management, and Contingency Emergency Response Components.”

“Enugu State, for a long time, has neglected the livestock sector, and we want to resuscitate, revitalise, and rejig the sector. His Excellency is sending some of us to Zaria to enable us to get the needed training to maximise growth in the sector. We have academics, small and large livestock farmers, civil servants from the Ministry of Agriculture, veterinary doctors, amongst others. All these were selected to ensure that knowledge transfer, sustainability, and records are kept for future exploration. His Excellency is very determined to include all so as to make the aim well-achieved and get people that will act as service providers. These service providers will train others, and so the knowledge will transfer.”

Dr. Nnajieze also urged those who are not interested to withdraw to enable others who are ready to help achieve reasonable results to go.

She also told the participants that the knowledge they gather during the training will help in establishing an AI centre in Enugu State.

Explaining the objectives of the training, the Value Chain Officer of L-PRES Enugu State, Mrs. Mamel-Akpata Chinenyenwa, said the training will boost livestock productivity in the state, adding that maximum application of the skills acquired will grow the state’s economy.

“The training is to arm Enugu-based livestock farmers with the necessary skills that will enable them to manage artificial insemination. This will expose them to AI centre plans and equipment. It will expose them to acquire the required skills for male selection, semen collection, evaluation, processing, and preservation processes. They will also improve their understanding of reproductive biology and breeding management principles, promote proper use and maintenance of AI equipment and supplies, amongst others.”

Addressing the trainees, the Environmental Specialist of L-PRES Enugu State, Dr. Enoch Nnanna, urged the trainees to apply caution in their attire as the weather there is different from what we have here, which could be a serious distraction to them.
He urged all to be mindful of what they wear, as their culture of dress sense differs from ours.

The Permanent Secretary, Enugu State Ministry of Agriculture, Victor Ngwu, said Enugu State is blessed with a governor passionate about building the economy of the state, especially through the agricultural sector. He stated that the vision of moving the state’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion isn’t a joke, as the governor has invested so much in agriculture. He urged all the trainees to imbibe the spirit of seriousness during the training and be able to justify the fees paid to train them, as a lot is expected of them from the state government.

Mr. Ngwu, who is also an agrarian, enumerated the likely take-homes for the participants, noting that they can actually establish their ranches, which will make Enugu a citadel of agriculture in Africa.

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