Customs generate N301bn in Rivers.

Customs generate N301bn in Rivers.

The Nigeria Customs Service, Area 2 Command, Onne in Rivers State, said it raked in about N301bn as revenue in 2023.

The command’s Area Comptroller, Baba Imam, disclosed this during its end-of-year service in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area of the state on Tuesday.

Imam explained that the functions of the NCS, firstly are about revenue collection and generation, as well as the suppression of smuggling and the implementation of government fiscal policies.

While highlighting some achievements, he expressed happiness that the command met its target for the year, surpassing its target in 2022.

Imam said, “In the area of revenue, the command has recorded about N301 billion as of this moment.

“The command did not only meet up with its revenue target or beat last year’s revenue but has remarkably increased over N40 billion to N50 billion in addition to what was realised last month.”

Continuing, he said, “I would like to state here that, in July, the command had a total revenue of N38 billion, which is an unprecedented record in the history of this command, just for a month.”

He added that before now, the command had to record only about N27 billion as the highest revenue that was generated within a month.

Imam stated, “Our revenue target for the year (2023) is about N336 billion and as I speak, we have been able to get about 90 per cent of our revenue target and I want to assure you people all that we are resolute and committed to ensuring that we meet up with our revenue target before the end of the year.”

In the area of smuggling, the Area Comptroller disclosed that in a bit to ensure conformity with import and export guidelines and to serve as a deterrent to others, the command has seized about 38-39 containers within the period under review.

Among the items that contravened import and export guidelines include second-hand clothing, used tyres, concealed hard drugs, other substances, arms and ammunition, including pistols, which were handed over to the relevant agencies.

He also referenced the command’s peaceful and cordial collaboration with sister agencies, and stakeholders, which according to him has resulted in smooth operations and boosted the command’s revenues.

He commended officers of the command for being resilient in carrying out their tasks and obligations as proscribed by the law and urged them not to rest on their oars.

He further admonished, “As young officers in this service, the service is for you. You are the crucial management of this service and therefore, you need to be apt, proactive, diligent and committed.

“You need to, with sincerity of purpose, be ready to discharge any assignment assigned to you at any given time, and to be committed to ensuring that you will bring the needed result for you to be recognised.”

Highlight of the event was the presentation of awards, and certificates of excellence and recognition to officers and stakeholders of the command.

Aiyekire/Gbonyin Council Chairmen Jointly Present 2024 Budget Estimate to Aiyekire LGA/Gbonyin LCDA Legislative Council.

Aiyekire/Gbonyin Council Chairmen Jointly Present 2024 Budget Estimate to Aiyekire LGA/Gbonyin LCDA Legislative Council.

In fulfillment of their statutory responsibility, Prince Ayodele Fadumiye, the Chairman of Aiyekire Local Government, presented the 2024 budget estimate of five billion, seven hundred and eighteen million Naira (N5,718,000,000.00) on Tuesday. This was on behalf of Aiyekire/Gbonyin LCDA council area to the local government legislative council for consideration and passage. The proposed estimate, named 'Budget of Renewed Hope,' marks a significant increase of 150% from the 2023 capital expenditure.

The sources of funding for the 2024 Budget include recurrent revenue, allocation from the Federation Account, internally generated revenue, 10% of the state's contribution to IGR, Value Added Tax (VAT), Excess Crude Oil, Ecology, SURE P, and Women's program.

The chairman emphasized that the budget aligns with the present economic challenges and the new direction agenda of the state government. Recurrent expenditure is projected at 2,618,515,052.80, while capital expenditure will amount to 3,099,484,947.20.

Expressing gratitude to the legislative council for their cooperation, the chairman highlighted the balanced nature of the budget and urged everyone to contribute to the development of the Local Government Area/Local Council Development Area. He emphasized the need for prompt payment of taxes to expand the revenue base.

The event was attended by Hon. Damilare Ajayi, the Gbonyin LCDA counterpart, Council Executive Members, Management Team, Traditional rulers, Security Personnels, and Stakeholders. The Chairman assured that the budget provisions would lead to improved developmental programs across all sectors.

Hon. Akinyemi Bola, the Leader of the House, assured an expedited hearing and passage of the budget proposal through due process. He thanked leaders and stakeholders for their presence and pledged continued cooperation with the council leadership.

In his vote of thanks, Hon. Martins from Agbado-Ekiti Ward commended both Aiyekire/Gbonyin LCDA Chairmen for their developmental projects. Chief Anthony Ajila, Director of Administration, Gbonyin LCDA, stressed the importance of a robust and realistic 2024 Budget to ensure increased dividends of democracy. He commended the Executive Chairmen for quality service delivery and thanked all participants for their positive contributions to the preparation and presentation of the Year 2024 budget estimate, titled "Budget of Renewed Hope."

EKSG set to introduce land use charges.

EKSG set to introduce land use charges.

...... As Oyebanji prepares to announce wage award to workers.

In the drive to boost the economy of the state through improved internally generated revenue, Ekiti state Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has announced government’s intention to commence collection of  land use charges in the state.

Governor Oyebanji, who made this known on Monday during the 2023 Carols and Lessons service held at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic and Convention Centre, Ado Ekiti said the property tax would not in any way be a serious burden to the residents of the state as it is going to be progressive.

The Governor called for cooperation and collaboration of all stakeholders on the scheme in order for government to continue meeting its obligation to the citizens. He added  that the property tax is going to be progressive based on the type and cost of property of an individual.

“I just want to plead with Ekiti people that by next year, we are going to start with land use charges in Ekiti state, because, if government must meet our obligations, we must raise money which I am sure will not bring any burden to anyone. We are going to do it in a way and manner that it is going to be progressive and we are starting in January. There is going to be a stakeholders’ meeting next week, where we are going to sit down with everybody in Ekiti state to explain this. If we do this, it is going to increase our IGR, then we will be able to do more.

“Every time, I receive requests for transformer, for water, for road construction, for community days, all this money will come from somewhere. So, if there are areas, we have not explored, time has come to explore them, but one thing you can be sure of is that I will be accountable to you and to God.

Speaking on wage award and welfare of workers, Governor Oyebanji commended the understanding and cooperation he had been enjoying from organized labour and assured that he would soon announce a sustainable wage award that his government would be able to afford.

“To the labour leaders, I don’t have enough words to thank you, thank you for dealing with all the pressure, but I think we are coming to a closure on wage award. And like I told you, I said I am not going to agree to something we will not be able to sustain, because I want your applause. I don’t want to announce what we cannot pay. 

“We have come to a conclusion on what we can offer and we will communicate it to you, and I plead with labour accept it because if you push us further, we won’t be able to sustain it. If you push us further, pension will suffer, gratuity will suffer and deduction will suffer. So it is better we do this thing in a way and manner that everybody will be happy so that no section will feel neglected. But whatever we say we are going to do, with or without FAAC, we will pay you.

The Governor also called on wealthy people that in the spirit of Christmas to assist families around them who may not have something to celebrate this Christmas with to reach out to them to complement government efforts on the various platforms it had created to reach out to vulnerable residents during this yuletide.

The Governor, in his characteristic manner used the platform to reiterate that he was not expecting or going to appreciate any birthday gift or advertisement from any of his friends or allies as he clocks another year on 21st of December but called on them to divert such gifts to children in the special schools saying that was the only thing that could give him joy during his birthday.

While Governor Oyebanji with members of his cabinet and body of Permanent Secretaries gave a special rendition at the event, lessons were read by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Wife of the Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye and Chief Judge of Ekiti State, Justice Oyewole Adeyeye among others.

In his sermon, the Pastor in charge of region 25 of Redeemed Christian Church of God Pastor Tunde Abdulahi spoke on wonderful attributes of Jesus Christ and stressed the need for people of God to come and enjoy Christ and enjoy his good tidings.

Other dignitaries who attended the event were traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil servants and the public.

Hon. Prince (Amb) Michael Ogungbemi fcpa, honored with the year 2023 Honorary Ambassador of Success _HAS_~Award of the Interweave Solutions Int'l, USA.

 Hon. Prince (Amb) Michael Ogungbemi fcpa, honored with the year 2023 Honorary Ambassador of Success _HAS_~Award of the Interweave Solutions Int'l, USA.

In acknowledgment of his outstanding leadership and commitment to good governance, Hon Prince Ambassador Michael Ogungbemi, the Executive Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area in Ekiti State, has been honored with the prestigious Interweave International Honorary Ambassador of Success Award by Interweaves Solutions International (ISI), USA, held in Abuja, Nigeria.

The award stems from Hon Prince Ambassador Michael Ogungbemi's remarkable dedication to leading Ajoni Local Council Development Area with passion, innovation, and creativity. His efforts align with the six-point agenda of His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, of the APC-led administration at the grassroots level in Ekiti State.

In a letter dated 27th November 2023, Prince Amb Michael Ogungbemi received notification from Interweave International USA regarding his award for the prestigious Interweave International Honorary Ambassador of Success. The Interweave International Champions Awards, particularly the Honorary Ambassador of Success (HAS-Awards), recognize individuals who have contributed significantly to community development and the empowerment of youth.

The letter, addressed to Hon Prince Ambassador Michael Oluwadare Ogungbemi, expressed appreciation for his outstanding contributions to human capital development and empowerment. The award committee approved his nomination in the Gold Category, underscoring his impactful role in the community.

The year 2023 HAS-Awards aim to empower individuals in the informal economy through the application of Masters of Business in the Streets (MBS) training principles. As an Ambassador of Success, Hon Prince Ambassador Michael Ogungbemi is expected to support the work of Interweave and nominate beneficiaries for MBS training in any location in Nigeria.

In response to the award, Hon Prince Ambassador Michael Ogungbemi, represented by Engr Prince Mobolaji Ogungbemi at the HAS~Award ceremony expressed gratitude to the leadership of Interweave Solutions International Nigeria and emphasized his commitment to continue contributing to the betterment of society. The award recognizes not only his personal achievements but also the positive impact of his leadership on the community.

Congratulations poured in from the management of Interweave International Nigeria, with Dr. Exodus Esuku Ibor, the Country Director-Nigeria, extending best wishes on the new status as an international Ambassador of Success.

This recognition stands as a testament to Hon Prince (Amb) Michael Ogungbemi's dedication to community development and marks a significant milestone in his transformative leadership journey.

Kogi arrests 10 illegal miners, seizes 50 coal trucks.

Kogi arrests 10 illegal miners, seizes 50 coal trucks.

The Kogi State Government says it has arrested 10 illegal miners and seized 50 trucks loaded with coal in the Ankpa Local Government Area of the state.

The state’s Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Bashiru Gegu, disclosed this on Tuesday at the commencement of the enforcement of Governor Yahaya Bello’s directive to stop illegal mining across the state.

Gegu said, “We must implement the Federal Government policy and help in revenue generation. Over the years we have asked miners in the state approved by the Federal Government to register with the Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural Resources.

This has fallen on deaf ears with people brazenly destroying our communities.”

He warned all illegal mining companies and individuals to stop forthwith as ‘’illegal mining is prohibited in Kogi State.”

The Director General, Kogi State Special Task Force on Illegal Smuggling of Firearms and Other Related Crimes, Friday Makama, said the Bello administration would leave no stone unturned to stamp out illegal mining in Kogi.

He said, “Some set of individuals are milking the state of its natural resources. That is why Governor Bello who wants the best for the people of Kogi State said it was time to put a stop to illegal mining in Kogi.

“Our operation here is very simple. All miners in Kogi State must operate within the ambit of the law. And I am here to ensure the enforcement of the directive given by Governor Bello.”

Why Fed Govt is promoting pleabargain in criminal cases, by Fagbemi.

Why Fed Govt is promoting pleabargain in criminal cases, by Fagbemi.

The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi has explained why the Federal Government is encouraging the use of plea bargaining in resolving criminal cases.

The AGF said the option, provided for in the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015 and similar laws enacted by the various states, is intended to curb delays, reduce cost of prosecution and address congestion in prisons.

Fagbemi spoke yesterday in Abuja at the unveiling of Plea Bargaining Guidelines for Federal Prosecutors 2023 and a sensitisation workshop on the guidelines for judges, prosecutors and other stakeholders.

He said there were misgivings among Nigerians about the benefits of plea bargaining, arguing that its merits outweigh the presumed demerits.

The AGF noted that among the benefits of plea bargaining is that “it helps in the management of the caseload of prosecutors and enables the state to concentrate its limited resources on the cases considered more deserving of full prosecution”.

Fagbemi added: “When applied in compliance with stipulated guidelines, plea bargaining can enhance the quick recovery of stolen assets and proceeds of crime.

“It is also one of the mechanisms that can facilitate cost effective, timely and sustainable decongestion of custodial centres.”

The AGF explained that the negative perception often associated with the application of plea bargaining in serious and complex cases had made it imperative for the country to have a “standard guidelines for the implementation of plea bargaining provisions contained in our laws”.

He added that objective of the guidelines was to, among others, “guide the prosecution and the defence in reaching a plea bargain agreement that is in the interest of justice, the public interest, public policy, and the need to prevent abuse of legal process”.

Fagbemi added: “Our conviction is that the guidelines, which we are unveiling today, will promote standardisation, enhance the effective implementation of the plea bargaining provisions in the ACJA and significantly contribute and stimulate overall efficiency of the criminal justice system in Nigeria.”

National Assembly to pass 2024 budget before December 30, says Abbas.

National Assembly to pass 2024 budget before December 30, says Abbas.

House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas has said the National Assembly will pass the 2024 budget on Saturday, December 30.

Abbas spoke when the House resumed plenary yesterday in Abuja.

The Speaker passed a message from the Committee on Appropriation to various committees of the House that they must conclude and submit their reports of the budget defence by agencies of government by 8 p.m yesterday.

He said other budget-related activities like compilation, processing and harmonization would take place in between.

Abbas said: “Honourable colleagues, just for your records and information from Committee on Appropriation. It is an appeal to all committees that are unable to finish their budget defence and submit their reports. They have up to 8 p.m today to finish and submit their reports for defence at the Appropriation Committee office.

“I also want to inform you that the official day for the passage of the budget would be slated for Saturday, December 30, 2023. In between these two dates, all other activities, like harmonisation, compilation, and processing of the Bill, will take place.

“So, please take note. Those of you who may want to go for Christmas, try to take note that Saturday, December 30, would be the day that we officially pass the budget 2024.”