Fuel Scarcity Looms in Abuja as PENGASSAN-Dangote Refinery Dispute Bites

Signs of a looming fuel scarcity have re-emerged in the Federal Capital Territory as the industrial faceoff between the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the Dangote Petroleum Refinery begins to ripple through the downstream market.

During a visit to Shema filling stations in Asokoro and Kugbo along the busy Asokoro–Nyanya highway, The Bureau News observed the return of black market fuel sellers in front of the outlets. Petrol attendants confirmed that they were yet to receive delivery of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) ordered by their management, citing delays linked to the refinery’s dispute with the oil workers’ union.

Voices From the Ground

A pump attendant, who requested anonymity, explained: “We are yet to get delivery of the fuel that management ordered because of the faceoff between PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery. That is why you see these black market sellers outside again.”

The development comes just hours after a nine-hour Federal Government-brokered reconciliation meeting between PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery management ended in deadlock. The union insists it will not return to work until alleged anti-labour practices are reversed, while Dangote maintains its restructuring is in line with international best practices.

Growing Concerns of Shortages

Motorists who spoke with The Bureau News expressed frustration at the prospect of fuel queues returning. “It looks like another round of scarcity is coming,” said one driver at Kugbo. “If black marketers are already back, it means trouble for ordinary Nigerians.”

The Federal Ministry of Labour has urged both parties to resume talks by 2 p.m. on Tuesday, stressing that industrial peace in the oil and gas sector is critical to Nigeria’s economy and energy security. For now, Abuja residents remain anxious, with some already paying inflated prices to roadside sellers.

Stay with The Bureau News for breaking coverage on Nigeria News Today, including fuel supply updates and the outcome of today’s negotiations.

Fayemi Urges Unity, Resilience and Hope as Nigeria Marks Independence Anniversary

Dr. Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), has felicitated with Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary, calling for peace, unity, and a renewed commitment to national development.

In a statement issued by Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, head of the Fayemi Media Office in Abuja, Fayemi said both trials and triumphs have marked Nigeria’s journey since independence, but that the resilience of its people has continued to keep the nation standing strong.

“Our strength as a nation lies in our diversity and our determination to build a better tomorrow,” he said. “Though we have faced challenges, our ability to rise above adversity gives hope that Nigeria’s best days are ahead.”

Fayemi stressed the importance of promoting peace and harmony among all ethnic and religious groups, noting that the country’s diversity is an asset rather than a weakness.

“At a time like this, we must resist all attempts to divide us along ethnic or sectional lines. We are stronger together, and only through unity can we achieve the greatness that our founding fathers envisioned,” he added.

Dr. Fayemi urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the sacrifices of past generations, while committing themselves to building a more prosperous, just, and inclusive nation, calling on leaders at all levels to provide visionary and selfless leadership that will inspire hope and confidence in the Nigerian project.

“As we celebrate this Independence Anniversary, let us renew our faith in Nigeria and in one another. Let us continue to work for peace, progress, and national unity. With unity, understanding, and resilience, we will overcome our present difficulties and create a brighter future for generations yet unborn,” he concluded.

Signed

Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, 

Head, Fayemi Media Office, Abuja

September 30th, 2025

Fayemi Congratulates Ladoja on Coronation as Olubadan of Ibadanland

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), has congratulated Senator Rashidi Ladoja on his coronation as the new Olubadan of Ibadanland.

In a press statement issued by the head of the Fayemi Media Office, Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, Dr Fayemi described the installation of Ladoja as Olubadan as “a fitting recognition of his illustrious contributions to public life and his enduring service to the people of Oyo State and Nigeria at large.”

He said Senator Ladoja’s wealth of experience in politics, business, and community service would no doubt be brought to bear in further uniting the Ibadan traditional institution and enhancing the welfare of his people.

Fayemi expressed confidence that the new Olubadan’s reign would usher in an era of peace, prosperity, and stability not only for Ibadan but also for the entire state of Oyo.

“Senator Ladoja is widely admired as a man of integrity and courage. His ascension to the Ibadan throne is a source of pride, not only to the people of Ibadanland but also to all Nigerians who value leadership anchored on service and humility,” Fayemi said.

While praying for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance for the monarch, Fayemi urged the people of Ibadanland and Oyo State to rally round the new Olubadan to sustain the tradition of peace and progress for which the ancient city is known.

Signed

Mallam Ahmad Sajoh

Head, Fayemi Media Office

September 9, 2025

Amana State Movement Cites Historical Promises and Economic Potential in Public Hearing

 The Movement for the Creation of Amana State made a compelling case for its proposed state at a public hearing held by the House of Representatives on Tuesday, September 22, 2025, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja. Alhaji Sali Bello, the Director General of the movement, delivered an address that highlighted both historical and economic justifications for the new state.

Alhaji Bello, who also holds the traditional title of Dan Amar Mubi, opened his address by invoking the concept of "trust". He reminded the lawmakers that the people of the proposed Amana State joined Nigeria through a plebiscite in 1961 as a "Trust Territory." According to Bello, two key promises were made to them by the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto: that they would maintain autonomy as a sub-national entity and that their capital, Mubi, would be on equal footing with cities like Kano and Katsina. He argued that these promises have "largely and regrettably" remained unfulfilled.

A Strong Case Based on Facts and Figures

Beyond historical grievances, Alhaji Bello presented a strong, data-driven argument for the creation of Amana State. He noted that the proposed area has a landmass of 6,919 square kilometers, which is equivalent to two existing states and larger than four others. The area boasts a projected population of 3.239 million people and could support up to 20 local government areas, based on its current development areas and the inclusion of the Uba Emirate from Borno State. The region also includes three Emirates and two Chiefdoms, which are larger than similar structures in other parts of the country.

Economically, Bello stated that the proposed Amana State is a powerhouse. He asserted that over 60% of Adamawa State's current GDP of N2.66 trillion comes from economic activities within the areas that would make up Amana State. When the Uba Chiefdom is included, the region’s GDP would surpass that of more than half of Nigeria's existing states. He likened Mubi, the proposed capital, to Lagos, calling it the "economic melting pot" of Adamawa State, with a bustling trade in goods and animals that attracts patronage from across Nigeria and neighboring countries.

Rich in Resources and Infrastructure

Alhaji Bello also highlighted the abundant resources and social infrastructure within the proposed state. He mentioned a Federal University of Agriculture, a State University, a Federal Polytechnic, and a Federal Medical Center. The region is predominantly agrarian, rich in both cash and food crops, and home to the Mubi cattle market, which is considered one of the largest in West Africa. He also noted significant untapped solid mineral deposits, including uranium, and confidently stated that Amana State has the potential to be self-reliant in both human capacity and economic development.

Alhaji Bello concluded his address by urging the House of Representatives to consider the request on its own merit, citing that all criteria for state creation have been met. He also implored them to "erase the burden of trust hanging on the Nigerian state" by fulfilling the solemn promise made decades ago.

Governor Abiodun Oyebanji: Making President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 Electoral Victory Easier in Ekiti State

The foremost Ekiti State grassroots sensitisation and mobilisation movement for good governance has lauded the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for his exemplary leadership style in uniting all the relevant progressive leadership of our great party the All Progressives Congress (APC) towards ensuring a landmark victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his 2027 re-election bid.

The commendation came on the heels of Governor Oyebanji’s sterling performance in fostering unity, strengthening the ruling APC, and bringing together both past and present party leaders ahead of the party primary scheduled for October 27, 2025, and the governorship election slated for June 2026, all in preparation for the ultimate task of President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

So far, so good, it is as clear as crystal that under Governor Oyebanji’s servant leadership, the cohesion and collective resolve of party stakeholders have become stronger and more people-oriented. True to his nature as a leader who leads by example, Governor Oyebanji has rallied the entire state, setting the stage for a massive, united, and overwhelming vote for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to continue his good works in office for a second term.

In a statement signed and released by the convener of the group yesterday, the movement stressed that since the creation of Ekiti State and the dawn of democracy in 1999, never has the state been this united and determined to ensure political stability and continuity of good governance. Governor Oyebanji’s humility, inclusiveness, and servant leadership have endeared him to the hearts of the people across party lines.

The group, however, urged the Governor, the party, and the good people of Ekiti State to remain vigilant, avoid complacency, and keep their eyes on the ball by focusing on the re-election of Governor Oyebanji in 2026 and the landmark re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in 2027.

Finally, the group affirmed that a support for Governor Oyebanji is a support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; a support that guarantees political stability, sustained progress, and a rejuvenated economic growth in our dear State and nation.

Signed:

HC Ade

Convener, OSV

GOV OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES FIRST LADY, SENATOR OLUREMI TINUBU ON 65TH BIRTHDAY

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated Nigerian First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu on her 65th birthday, describing her as a diligent First Lady with a heart of gold.

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, described Senator Oluremi Tinubu as a special gift to the nation and a pillar of support to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu- led administration.

The Ekiti State Governor said Senator Tinubu had paid her dues and made remarkable contributions to the development of the country as a former First Lady of Lagos State and a three-term Senator of the Federal Republic, representing Lagos Central Senatorial District, long before she became the First Lady of the country.

Governor Oyebanji highlighted Senator Tinubu’s impactful legacies as an Educator, an ordained Minister and through numerous purpose-driven initiatives such as the New Era Foundation in Lagos, the Spelling Bee competition for school children and currently, the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), which, according to him, has brought succor to countless citizens across the country, and has been of immense benefit to women and children in Ekiti State in particular. 

“Ekiti people and indeed all well-meaning Nigerians appreciate this great Mother of the Nation, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. Her 65th birthday celebration, today, thus provides a unique opportunity to express our best wishes to a great woman, a compassionate leader, the loving mother of the nation and a strong support system.

“On behalf of my family, the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I wish the mother of the nation, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu a happy birthday, and pray that God Almighty would continue to bless and honour her as she continues to be a channel of blessings to humanity”, the Governor added.

NSITF Board Chairman, Hon. Sola Olofin, Celebrates Senator Oluremi Tinubu at 65

The Chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) Management Board, Hon. Sola Olofin, has joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on the occasion of her 65th birthday.

Hon. Olofin described Senator Tinubu as a woman of uncommon grace, resilience, and compassion whose life of service continues to inspire countless Nigerians, particularly women and youths across the nation.

According to him, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has, over the years, distinguished herself as a mother of the nation, a seasoned legislator, and an advocate for social justice, education, and empowerment. He noted that her impact, both as a three-term Senator and now as First Lady, reflects her deep commitment to the development of Nigeria and the wellbeing of her people.

“On this special day, I heartily celebrate our dear First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, a woman of virtue and vision. Her dedication to uplifting the less privileged, championing women empowerment, and fostering unity and progress in our nation stands as a legacy for generations to come,” Hon. Olofin said.

He further prayed for God’s continued guidance, protection, and strength for the celebrant as she supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in steering the affairs of the country.

Hon. Sola Olofin, on behalf of the NSITF Management Board, extended warm wishes to Senator Tinubu for a long life filled with good health, divine wisdom, and greater accomplishments in service to humanity.

NSITF Board Chairman, Hon. Shola Olofin, Applauds President Tinubu’s Role in Restoring Fubara, Amaewhule, and Others

The Chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) Management Board, Hon. Shola Olofin, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive and reconciliatory intervention in restoring Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, and other key political stakeholders in Rivers State to their rightful positions.

Hon. Olofin, in a statement made available to newsmen, described President Tinubu’s action as a demonstration of true statesmanship and commitment to the unity, peace, and stability of Nigeria’s democratic institutions. He noted that the resolution brokered by the President has not only restored harmony within Rivers State but has also rekindled the confidence of Nigerians in the ability of the Federal Government to promote justice, fairness, and inclusiveness across the federation.

He further explained that the Rivers political crisis had threatened governance and development in the state, but President Tinubu’s timely leadership ensured that the situation was handled with wisdom, tact, and a deep sense of responsibility.

“President Tinubu has once again proven himself as a leader who places national interest above personal or partisan considerations. His bold intervention in restoring Governor Fubara, Speaker Amaewhule, and other leaders is a testament to his vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria,” Olofin said.

The NSITF Chairman also appealed to all stakeholders in Rivers State to embrace the renewed peace and work together for the progress and development of the state. He emphasized that politics should not be allowed to overshadow the delivery of good governance and dividends of democracy to the people.

Hon. Olofin reaffirmed his commitment, as Chairman of the NSITF Management Board, to continue supporting President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in advancing social protection, workers’ welfare, and economic stability across the nation.

He urged Nigerians to rally behind the President and give him the needed support to implement policies that would bring lasting prosperity and unity to the country.

Ekiti Gets First Inclusive School as Oyebode Hands Over Adaptive Learning Facilities in Ikole-Ekiti

History was made on Thursday as the Irepodun Community Pilot School, Ikole-Ekiti, was officially handed over to the state government as the first inclusive school in Ekiti. 

The project, spearheaded and donated by the Former Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Akintunde Oyebode, features retrofitted adaptive classrooms and facilities designed to provide children with special needs equal access to quality education alongside their peers.

The newly completed facility was handed over to the Office of Special Education and Social Inclusion, headed by Princess Adetoun Agboola, in a colourful ceremony witnessed by dignitaries including the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye (representing Governor Biodun Oyebanji), Special Adviser on Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, former Attorney General, Barr. Wale Fapohunda (SAN), Hon. Dapo Karounwi, the Elekole in Council, represented by Chief Olotin and community leaders, among others. 

Hon. Oyebode, while addressing pressmen, said his vision for the project was driven by compassion and the urgent need to reduce the struggles faced by children with disabilities in accessing education.

“This project is about giving every child a fair chance. Before now, children with special needs in Ikole and neighbouring towns had to travel far to find inclusive schools. This new facility eliminates that burden and ensures they can learn in a supportive environment close to home,” he said.

He explained that the classrooms were carefully designed to meet inclusive education standards, stressing that the gesture was not charity but an investment in human dignity and the future of Ekiti State.

The Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, described the event as a major milestone in Ekiti’s journey toward mainstreaming children with disabilities. 

She noted that the Federal Ministry of Education had urged states to develop actionable work plans for Inclusive Education and Ekiti was already taking bold steps in that direction under Governor Oyebanji.

“Inclusive education ensures that children with disabilities learn in the same classrooms as their non-disabled peers. It fosters empathy, equity and opportunity. Hon. Oyebode has again shown his commitment to people with disabilities in Ekiti by initiating this groundbreaking project,” Agboola said.

She further disclosed that parents of registered children had been given tokens to purchase uniforms, a step she said would encourage immediate enrollment and early resumption of the children in school. 

Speaking on behalf of Governor Oyebanji, Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye praised the initiative, describing it as a vital complement to the administration’s people-centred policies.

He said the project shows that private individuals and government can work together to create an inclusive and enabling environment for every child, saying Hon. Oyebode has shown great compassion, with a call on other well-meaning Ekiti sons and daughters to emulate the gesture of giving to society. 

Hon Aribasoye reaffirmed the commitment of the Ekiti State Government to providing an enabling environment for the people living with disabilities across the state. 

Also speaking, Special Adviser for Information, Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, highlighted the importance of private contributions to public development. 

He noted that government cannot provide all infrastructure alone, stressing that initiatives like Oyebode’s are a great addition to humanity.

High Chief Shayo Okunola, who represented the Elekole of Ikole-Ekiti, conveyed the monarch’s appreciation to Hon. Oyebode, describing him as a worthy ambassador of the town; just as he assured him of the community’s continuous support in his political journey.

He expressed the belief that the opening of the school means that children with special needs no longer have to endure long commutes to access quality education without discrimination.

Craneburg pledges job security for Ekiti indigenes, as Government strengthens partnership on the Local Employment Drive

Craneburg Construction Company Limited has given fresh assurances that Ekiti State indigenes engaged on the ongoing Ekiti State ring-road project will remain employed and will be redeployed to other company projects after the contract ends.

The pledge came during a working visit to the company’s Lagos head office by the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Local Content, Mr Olalekan Ijidale, who was received by Craneburg’s Head of Procurement, Mr Fouad G. Boulos.

Mr Ijidale commended Craneburg for complying with the state’s local-content guidelines and actively recruiting Ekiti indigenes across national offices and project sites. 

He explained that Ekiti is the only state in the country with Bureau of Local Content, noting that the policy had created jobs for many indigenes and produced a “tremendous” socio-economic impact by helping to prevent capital flight from the state.

“Our people have been benefiting from projects executed in Ekiti because the money is from the taxes they pay. They are the ones financing all projects being executed across the state, and they must benefit from their efforts. When companies hire locally and invest in local skills, families are supported, and the state’s economy grows,” Ijidale added.

He re-emphasised the State government's commitment to institutionalise local content, a policy he described as central to protecting local jobs, compensating the taxpayers and keeping project value within the state.

Responding, Mr Boulos reiterated Craneburg’s commitment to the workforce already hired for the ring-road project, saying the company would continue to engage Ekiti workers even after the project’s completion and would redeploy them to other worksites where needed. 

He also pledged to inform the Bureau of Local Content whenever vacancies arise that could be filled by Ekiti indigenes.

Both parties agreed to maintain close communication to ensure smooth redeployment of workers and to monitor ongoing compliance with the state’s local-content framework.

Ekiti Insists on Local Content in Public Projects, Warns Contractors on Compliance

The Ekiti State Government has declared that ongoing public projects in the state capital must translate directly into jobs and business opportunities for local artisans, vendors, and small businesses.

Director-General of the State Bureau of Local Content, Hon. Olalekan Ijidale, who announced this when he led an enforcement and monitoring exercise on Monday, said the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji would not tolerate contractors sidelining Ekiti people in the execution of government contracts.

“Our mandate is simple: every public project must deliver real socio-economic benefits to our people. Contractors must engage local artisans, hire local labour, and source materials from within the state wherever possible. This is not negotiable,” Ijidale warned.

During the inspection, the Bureau engaged Rutnael Projects Limited, the contractor handling the remodelling of the historic Adekunle Fajuyi Memorial Park, where the project manager, Arch. Akinola Olayinka, assured officials that Ekiti workers would be fully involved and that materials would be sourced locally. 

“We are committed to compliance. Ekiti people will be engaged and we will document all local procurement as the work progresses,” he pledged.

The monitoring team also visited five other major projects, including the proposed Government House Chalet handled by Solarboard Construction Company, the new Senators’ Lodge within the Government House premises by Aloreck Construction Company Limited. 

Other places were the rehabilitation of Ado–Ijan–Iluomoba–Imesi Road (Phase I) by Dipcrest Construction Company Limited, the rehabilitation of Okemesi–Ido Ile–Ita Ido Ekiti Road by Banky Construction Company and the construction of Ekiti State Indoor Sports Hall by Aron Nigeria Limited.

Hon. Ijidale emphasised that the Bureau will not rely on verbal promises but on verifiable evidence, stressing the need for contractors to submit updated implementation schedules, payrolls of local artisans, procurement records and sub-contracting plans within two weeks. 

He added that spot checks, documentation reviews, and engagement with artisan associations would be used to track compliance.

“The aim is to create jobs, strengthen local supply chains, and grow the capacity of our artisans and small businesses. Any contractor that fails to meet these requirements risks sanctions,” he warned.

According to him, the state’s broader vision is to ensure that public investments leave lasting economic value for Ekiti residents beyond roads, buildings and monuments. 

“Projects must not only be delivered on time and to specification, but they must also deliver tangible benefits to the people of Ekiti. That is the standard we will enforce,” he submitted.

Oyebanji, at JTB Retreat, harps on effective, equitable tax system….reaffirms commitment to National Tax Reform

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr 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, in a bid to ensure the fulfilment of the Tax Reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently passed by the National Assembly.

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 reaffirmed the commitment of his administration towards the implementation of the National Tax Reforms, noting that the importance of a robust tax system in driving economic growth and citizens’ welfare cannot be over emphasized. 

The Governor commended President Tinubu for proposing a far-reaching reform aimed at lifting the living standards of citizens which, according to him, is truly transformative and a collective fulfilment of the social contract that reinforces democratic governance for the existence of the country.

He explained that the key objectives of the bill are aimed at deepening the tax base, enhance revenue mobilization, simplify compliance procedures, foster transparency and accountability across revenue agencies, as well as encourage digitalization in tax administration. He added that the implementation of the bill next year will reshape process of revenue mobilization and delivery of sustainable development.

Governor Oyebanji charged participants at the retreat which included 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.

Commending the State’s Internal Revenue Service led by its Chairman, Mr Olaniran Olatona for their professionalism and strategic innovation, the Governor gladly revealed that his administration had been able to gear up internally generated revenue of the state from N650Million to over N2Billion within 26 months serving as base for providing critical funding to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.

“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.

“We, in Ekiti State, are committed to implementing these national reforms effectively and efficiently. We recognize the importance of a robust tax system in driving economic growth and enhancing citizen welfare. During your stay, I encourage you to see how we have channelled every kobo generated into projects that directly impact the lives of our people—a key factor in the high levels of voluntary compliance we have witnessed. 

“In a tangible show of support for our Internal Revenue Service, I am pleased to announce that I will be commissioning the new, Ekiti Revenue House within the next four weeks.

“Beyond this retreat, I invite you to see Ekiti as a prime destination for investment. We offer a stable, reform-minded government, a highly literate and trainable workforce, vast opportunities in agriculture, The Ekiti Knowledge Zone (EKZ), tourism, and solid minerals, all within a secure and peaceful environment conducive to business growth. 

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.

Olatona noted that the tax system was already equipped for a dynamic change that will bring improvement to the lives of the citizens since it was the first time the country was experiencing such massive reform expected to be beneficial to all.

Also at the event were the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode and Executive Chairmen of Internal Revenue Service of the 36 states of the federation.

Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, Condemns Tragic Murder of Mrs. Modupe Alasin, Calls for Swift Justice

First Lady of Ekiti State and Chairperson of the State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, , Dr Olayemi Oyebanji has expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the tragic killing of Mrs. Modupe Alasin of Efon Alaaye, who was allegedly murdered by her husband following a domestic dispute.

Describing the incident as “an appalling act of cruelty and a heartbreaking loss,” the First Lady decried the continued prevalence of gender-based violence in homes and communities, reaffirming the state government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating all forms of violence against women and girls.

“This is not just another case of domestic abuse. It is a clear violation of human rights and a tragic loss of a woman whose life should have been protected and not taken. The circumstances of her death are both painful and unacceptable. Our prayers are with her children, family, and all those left behind,” she said.

Dr. Oyebanji has directed the Ekiti State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee to urgently scale up preventive measures, survivor support services, and community outreach efforts.

She emphasized the need for a collective and coordinated response that reaches deep into every community.

She also called on the Ekiti State Police Command to carry out a comprehensive and impartial investigation, stressing that justice must be swift and uncompromising.

“The law must take its full course. The perpetrator must be held accountable, not only for Modupe’s death but to send a strong message that violence has no place in our state.”

Dr. Oyebanji urged all residents of Ekiti State to take a stand against violence in all its forms. “To every woman who feels unsafe or unheard, please speak out. Your voice matters, and help is available.

“The Ekiti GBV Response Mechanism is active, and we urge you to report any threats or abuse.”

Ekiti Government Pushes Inclusive Education Agenda, Trains Principals, Head Teachers on Transformative Strategies

In a bold move to ensure no child is left behind in the state’s education system, the Ekiti State Government has commenced a three-day intensive training for principals and head teachers of public schools on transformative inclusive strategies.

The training, themed “Transformative Inclusive Strategies in Ekiti State Public Schools”, was organised by the Office of Special Education and Social Inclusion in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and began on Monday, September 1, 2025, at Lady Jibowu Hall of the Governor’s Office, Ado Ekiti. 

One of the resource persons, Dr. Esther Oyefeso, emphasized that every learner is unique, with strengths and abilities that can be harnessed to fit well into the mainstream system. 

She introduced participants to practical methods of achieving inclusive learning, stressing the importance of collective efforts and positive attitudes from school leaders, teachers and communities.

Also speaking on the topic, “Inclusive Strategies and Plans for Ekiti State”, the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, described inclusion as a mindset and about belonging to a community without restraint. 

Princess Agboola also drew points from global frameworks such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006), the UNESCO Salamanca Statement (1994) and the UN Sustainable Development Goal 4, alongside Nigeria’s National Policy on Education and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2019 as well as the current interventions provided by the Federal Ministry of Education. 

She also outlined key steps for schools, including creating Special Educational Needs (SEN) registers, appointing SEN coordinators, developing individualized education programmes (IEPs), ensuring accessibility to all public buildings and continuous teacher training.

Princess Agboola equally commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration for its proactive stance on inclusivity, including establishing therapy centres for children with disabilities, adding that the government is determined to ensure that no child stays out of school. 

Declaring the programme open, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, reaffirmed the Government's commitment to building an education system that leaves no child behind.

She charged principals and head teachers to serve as agents of change towards ensuring that the government's inclusivity drive translates from policy to practice in every classroom.

Professor Adubiaro noted that Inclusive education is not just about placing children with disabilities in mainstream schools; it is equally about transforming leadership, teaching and school culture to celebrate diversity and foster empathy, encouraging participants to make the most of the training.

On his part, the chairman of the Ekiti Internal Revenue Service (EKIRS), Mr. Olaniran Olatona, echoed the call for support, saying people with disabilities could excel in all spheres if given the right environment. 

He pointed out that the three-day workshop is expected to equip the participants with the skills and perspective to create classrooms where every child, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute to the future of Ekiti State. 

The Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, also lauded the administration’s efforts, urging parents and teachers to nurture the dreams of children with special needs alongside their peers.

She advocated total inclusivity in education whereby the children with special needs would be allowed to be in the same schools with their able-bodied counterparts, adding that this is the only way true inclusivity can be said to have been achieved.

Present at the programme are the PS Education, Mr Michael Omolayo who represents the Commissioner for Education, Dr (Mrs) Adebimpe Aderiye, Mr. Michael Boluwade, PS TESCOM and Mr. Femi Dada the Acting PS SUBEB.