Atalanta Acknowledges PSG’s Interest in Ademola Lookman

Atalanta BC’s head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has confirmed that French powerhouse Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is interested in star player Ademola Lookman. This announcement comes amid increasing speculation about Lookman’s potential departure from the Serie A club.

In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Gasperini noted that PSG had inquired about Lookman during the summer transfer window. Although the club was able to reach personal terms with the player, a deal was not finalized at that time. This has prompted Atalanta to actively seek a suitable replacement for the Nigerian forward, who has become integral to their squad.

Lookman has also attracted attention from other notable clubs, including Chelsea and West Ham United, further highlighting his value in the transfer market. Reports from Tutto Atalanta suggest that Atalanta is looking to secure approximately €60 million from Lookman’s sale, with the intention of reinvesting the funds into acquiring younger talent to strengthen the team.

Potential replacements for Lookman include Argentine striker Mario Retegui, as well as notable names like Nico Gonzalez, Federico Chiesa, Denis Dragus, and Angel Gomes, currently at Lille.

Since his arrival at Atalanta from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2022, Lookman has made a significant impact, contributing to the team’s successful campaign, including a remarkable run to clinch the UEFA Europa League title last season. His outstanding performances have also earned him global recognition, finishing 14th in the final standings for the prestigious Ballon d’Or.

25 Million Nigerians Reap Benefits from Federal Government Intervention Programs – Wale Edun

Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance, announced that approximately 25 million Nigerians are currently benefitting from various intervention programs initiated by the federal government. During a briefing for the National Economic Council (NEC) at its 145th meeting on Thursday, Edun outlined the scope of these programs, which include digital outreach initiatives, microenterprise loans, and targeted support for key sectors such as power and agriculture.

In his report, Edun highlighted the financial status of several government accounts, noting that the Excess Crude Account holds $473,754.57, the Natural Resources Fund totals ₦26,105,837,627.67, and the Stabilization Account has ₦36,299,452,763.62.

Furthermore, Edun informed the NEC, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, that the government’s economic relief measures have extended to 25 million Nigerians through social protection initiatives. These include sector-specific support in areas like agriculture, manufacturing, health, and compressed natural gas (CNG) initiatives.

Additionally, Edun announced a new policy allowing Nigerians to deposit U.S. dollars held outside the formal banking system into the financial system within nine months, free from legal repercussions or financial penalties. This initiative aims to enhance the flow of foreign currency into Nigeria’s economy.

Court Drama: #EndBadGovernance Protest Suspects Faint During Arraignment

A dramatic scene unfolded on Friday at the Federal High Court in Abuja when several suspects involved in the recent #EndBadGovernance protests fainted during their court appearance. According to reports from Naija News, seventy-five suspects, all aged between twelve and fifteen years, were brought before Justice Obiora Egwuatu on a 10-count charge related to their participation in the protests.

The minors were arrested on August 3 and have remained in detention since then, facing accusations of attempting to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu through their involvement in the nationwide protests.

During the arraignment, the situation escalated as some suspects fainted, prompting Justice Egwuatu to abruptly rise from the bench. The incident caused a moment of panic in the courtroom, and further details are expected to emerge as the legal proceedings continue.

NAFDAC Warns Against Fake Foula Condoms in Nigeria

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a warning to Nigerians regarding the illegal sale and distribution of an unregistered brand of condoms known as Foula Condoms. This alert was announced on Thursday after officials from the agency’s Post-Marketing Surveillance directorate identified the condoms in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, and Zango, Katsina State.

The discovery was made during a Risk-Based Post Marketing Surveillance study focused on registered condom brands in Nigeria. NAFDAC emphasized that Foula condoms are not registered for use in the country, and their packaging does not meet labeling standards, as it is not presented in English.

NAFDAC highlighted the importance of using registered condoms, noting that they are a proven method for preventing unintended pregnancies and protecting against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). “To ensure effectiveness, any barrier method used for contraception or infection prevention must be utilized correctly,” the agency stated.

The distribution and sale of these unregistered condoms pose significant risks, as their safety, quality, and efficacy cannot be guaranteed. The agency cautioned that using low-quality condoms could compromise efforts to prevent unintended pregnancies and protect against STIs, as compromised condoms may leak or break, rendering them ineffective.

To combat this issue, NAFDAC has instructed all zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance and eliminate the unregistered products from circulation. Importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and consumers are urged to exercise caution and be vigilant throughout the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of these illegally distributed products.

Consumers are advised to ensure that all medical products and devices are obtained from authorized suppliers and to verify the authenticity and physical condition of these products. Any suspicions regarding substandard or falsified medicines or medical devices should be reported to the nearest NAFDAC office or via the agency’s hotline at 0800-162-3322. NAFDAC has also encouraged healthcare professionals and patients to report any adverse effects related to medical products or devices through their E-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website or via the Med-safety application.

NAFDAC remains committed to protecting public health and safety by ensuring the availability of quality medical products in Nigeria.

FG Resolves Civil Servants’ Salary Delays, Assures Prompt Payments

The Federal Government has moved to resolve the salary delays affecting federal civil servants in 12 government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), with payments scheduled to resume today. The delay was linked to budgetary constraints following the recent minimum wage adjustment and the unexpected inclusion of the 40% CONPSS Peculiar Allowance, which was not factored into the 2024 budget.

A circular from the Director of Finance at the Voice of Nigeria (VON) confirmed that salaries would be affected due to the personnel budget exhaustion, requiring additional funds from the Service Wide Vote to cover expenses from October to December 2024. This announcement caused concern among employees in affected MDAs.

Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, assured that the issue has been resolved, with salary payments to resume immediately for all impacted departments. He emphasized that the delays would not extend until year-end and that the affected MDAs would begin seeing payments from today.

“Yes, there was a delay, but it has been resolved, and civil servants will receive their salaries soon,” Mokwa stated, addressing concerns of prolonged salary disruptions.

Chadian Military Faces Accusations Over Fatal Airstrike on Nigerian Fishermen

The Chadian military has come under international scrutiny after reports surfaced of an airstrike that unintentionally killed multiple Nigerian fishermen on Tilma Island in Nigeria’s Lake Chad region. The strike, aimed at suspected Boko Haram militants, reportedly mistook fishermen working in the area for insurgents.

This incident, reported shortly after a deadly Boko Haram assault on a Chadian base that left 40 soldiers dead, has raised concerns about civilian safety amid escalating anti-terror operations in the region. Babakura Kolo, leader of an anti-jihadist militia supporting Nigerian forces, explained that the Chadian fighter jet had targeted the fishermen under the mistaken assumption they were Boko Haram members.

One fisherman, Sallau Arzika, described the scene as terrifying and sudden, with the jet “encircling Tilma before beginning to drop bombs while people ran for cover.” Another, Labo Sani from Doron-Baga, reported that two of his friends were killed while a third was severely injured.

In response, the Chadian government launched “Operation Haskanite,” a new offensive against Boko Haram, with Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby committing to pursue the attackers. A military official acknowledged that militants frequently mix with civilians, making it difficult to differentiate between them and legitimate targets.

The recent intensification of anti-jihadist operations in Lake Chad underscores the challenges regional forces face as they confront the widespread impacts of Boko Haram’s insurgency, which since 2009 has destabilized the region, displacing millions and resulting in extensive civilian casualties.

NEC Urges Rethink on Tax Reform Bill, Advocates for Decentralized Power Solutions to Stabilize Grid

In a move to ensure stakeholder alignment, the National Economic Council (NEC) has recommended that the federal government withdraw the recently proposed Tax Reform Bill from the National Assembly. NEC’s decision, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, reflects concerns raised by key stakeholders, including regional leaders, over the bill’s potential economic impact, especially on Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution.

Push for a Decentralized Energy System

Amid ongoing power supply challenges, NEC also announced initiatives to decentralize the national power grid, aiming to improve stability and resilience. Vice President Shettima advocated for the establishment of mini-grids and increased use of renewable energy sources, including solar power and wind turbines, particularly for regions heavily impacted by recent blackouts. He emphasized that implementing the Nigeria Energy Sector Implementation Plan (NESIP) could allow states greater autonomy to manage and stabilize power in their areas.

Shettima highlighted the strategic importance of leveraging diverse energy sources, stating, “We must harness regional energy strengths, from northern Nigeria’s solar resources to southern gas reserves, to create a stable and inclusive energy system.”

Broadening Revenue through Tax Reforms

In discussions surrounding the tax reforms, Shettima emphasized that President Tinubu’s initiatives aim to diversify Nigeria’s revenue base, thereby reducing the economy’s dependence on any single sector. However, he acknowledged that the VAT distribution model, a key component of the bill, has sparked regional concerns and needs further review to ensure equitable state funding.

Prioritizing Human Capital Development

The NEC meeting also underscored the need to address Nigeria’s low ranking on the Human Capital Index, pointing to critical issues such as life expectancy, maternal and child mortality, and education. Shettima called for a concerted effort across various sectors, backed by government and development partners, to improve Nigeria’s standing and overall human development metrics.

NEC’s recommendations reflect an integrated approach to refining Nigeria’s fiscal policies, stabilizing the energy sector, and enhancing human capital investment to drive sustainable economic growth across the country.

Tinubu to Withdraw Tax Reform Bill Amidst Widespread Opposition

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is set to withdraw the Tax Reform Bill presented to the National Assembly two months ago, following significant backlash. The opposition, led by northern governors and traditional rulers, centers on concerns about proposed changes to the Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution, which they believe could disproportionately affect the North’s economic interests.

Backlash from Northern Leaders

The proposal faced strong resistance from governors of Nigeria’s northern states, accompanied by prominent traditional rulers, who raised concerns that the VAT distribution model would favor regions where companies are headquartered rather than where products are consumed. Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya, chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, criticized the proposed model, stating it would place the North at an economic disadvantage.

In a communiqué, northern leaders highlighted the need for tax reforms to be fair and avoid regional marginalization. They emphasized their support for reforms benefiting the entire nation but underscored the importance of equity in national policy.

National Economic Council’s (NEC) Intervention

On October 31, Vice President Kashim Shettima chaired a NEC meeting that recommended the bill’s withdrawal, reflecting the governors’ and traditional leaders’ concerns. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, alongside Governors Charles Soludo (Anambra) and Babagana Zulum (Borno), emphasized NEC’s commitment to achieving consensus on tax reform. Makinde pointed out that the administration seeks broad-based consultations to ensure all voices are represented.

Presidential Response and Clarifications

Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, clarified that the bill’s goal was to make VAT allocation fairer by shifting towards a consumption-based model. He explained that under the current VAT distribution, funds go to areas where businesses are headquartered rather than where goods are actually used, thus disadvantaging regions providing essential goods for the whole country.

The administration plans to reintroduce a modified version of the Tax Reform Bill after further consultations to ensure a balanced and inclusive approach to tax reform.

Rivers State Government Debunks Claims of Governor Fubara Shutting Down NNPCL and Oil Companies

The Rivers State government has dismissed as false the circulating claims that Governor Siminalayi Fubara has ordered the shutdown of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and other oil companies operating in the state. This clarification follows a social media report alleging that Fubara had issued such a directive.

In a statement issued by Commissioner for Information and Communications, Warisenibo Joe Johnson, the state government labeled the report as “false” and a form of “concocted propaganda” with no basis in fact. The statement called on Rivers residents to ignore the misleading claim, emphasizing that Governor Fubara has not made any such decision.

“The attention of the Rivers State Government has been drawn to a spurious news item circulating on social media regarding ‘Gov. Siminalayi Fubara shutting down NNPCL and all oil companies in Rivers State,’” the statement reads. “The report is false, a product of the imagination of the author and detractors of the state.”

The government reaffirmed Governor Fubara’s commitment to lawful governance, distancing him from any “unconventional and crude approaches” to addressing state issues. The statement urged the public to disregard the rumor and assured that there was no directive to shut down any part of the oil sector.

Governor Fubara’s administration remains focused on advancing the state’s economy through lawful and transparent governance practices, rejecting any misinformation that seeks to disrupt public order.

FG Announces Dollar Deposit Program with No Penalties or Taxes, Grants Nine-Month Window

The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced a new policy granting Nigerians a nine-month window to deposit dollar bills held outside the formal banking system without facing penalties, taxes, or scrutiny. Speaking after the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, outlined the policy as part of ongoing efforts to improve financial security and integrate funds outside the banking system into the formal economy.

Minister Edun clarified that individuals holding dollar cash can deposit it safely in Nigerian banks, provided it does not originate from illicit sources. “There will be no penalty; there will be no taxes, and there will be no questions,” he stated, emphasizing that the policy aims to secure these funds within legal and safe channels.

The program, in partnership with the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria, starts immediately and will conclude after nine months. Individuals must only meet standard “Know Your Customer” (KYC) requirements to ensure the funds’ safety and alignment with regular economic activities.

Additionally, Edun highlighted that 25 million Nigerians have benefited from various federal social protection programs, including microenterprise loans, digital outreach initiatives, and sector-focused support in energy, agriculture, manufacturing, health, and compressed natural gas initiatives.

This initiative represents a move by the government to boost economic activity by encouraging the use of formal financial systems and supporting Nigeria’s broader economic stability and growth efforts.