Good morning, Nigeria. Here’s a summary of the top news stories making waves across the country today, Wednesday, November 20, 2024.
1. President Tinubu Requests ₦1.767 Trillion Loan to Address Budget Deficit
President Bola Tinubu has reached out to the National Assembly, seeking approval for an external loan of ₦1.767 trillion to cover part of the ₦9.7 trillion deficit in the 2024 budget. In addition, he submitted the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for 2025-2027, outlining future economic plans.
2. Opposition to Tinubu’s Tax Reforms Rooted in Misunderstanding, Says Agbese
Philip Agbese, Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, criticized those opposing President Tinubu’s tax reform proposals, suggesting they have not studied the bill thoroughly. He emphasized the reform’s benefits for the country, advocating for fairness and equity.
3. Federal Government Expands NYSC Posting Options to Include Private Sector
The Federal Government has removed restrictions on National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) deployments, allowing members to work in private companies, including banks and oil firms. The policy shift is aimed at tackling youth unemployment and preparing graduates for the job market.
4. Sultan of Sokoto Rejects Claims of Intimidation by State Governors
Sultan Sa’ad Mohammad Abubakar II has refuted suggestions that traditional rulers fear state governors. He stressed that the respect for governors shouldn’t be seen as intimidation, underscoring the enduring significance of traditional institutions in Nigeria’s history and governance.
5. Tinubu Seeks to Enhance Social Welfare with New Amendment Bill
President Tinubu has sent the National Social Investment Programme Amendment Bill to the National Assembly. The amendment aims to make the National Social Register the main tool for targeting vulnerable groups, ensuring efficient delivery of welfare services.
6. Terrorists Deploying IEDs to Destabilize Communities, Warns General Laka
Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, head of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, highlighted the growing use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) by terrorists to cause chaos. He emphasized ongoing training efforts to improve counter-terrorism readiness.
7. Delta SSG Defends Former Governor Okowa Amid EFCC Scrutiny
Kingsley Emu, Secretary to the Delta State Government, defended former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa against allegations of financial misconduct. He claimed the accusations were politically motivated, aiming to tarnish Okowa’s image before the 2027 elections.
8. PDP’s Ladi Adebutu Dismisses DSS Accusations as ‘Baseless’
Ladi Adebutu, the PDP’s 2023 Ogun State governorship candidate, has described his recent detention by the Department of State Services (DSS) as politically driven. He reiterated his stance on local government autonomy, calling it crucial for development.
9. Tompolo Accuses Powerful Figures of Hindering Oil Theft Crackdown
Tantita Security Services’ Chairman, Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), has expressed frustration over obstacles in combating oil theft. He accused some Navy personnel of collusion and urged support for President Tinubu’s economic reforms.
10. Senator Ibrahim Backs Tinubu’s Borrowing Plans, Suggests Larger Loans
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim has endorsed President Tinubu’s borrowing strategy, advocating for an even larger loan above $50 billion to fund infrastructure projects. He referenced Dubai’s development as a successful model for strategic borrowing.
Stay tuned for more Nigerian news updates tomorrow on Nigeria Times News.
