By Tony Obiechina, Abuja

The Chairman of tax reforms committee, Taiwo Oyedele has advocated lower corporate tax rates, in addressing regulatory overage, and refining tariff systems to stimulate investment and economic growth.Oyedele made the call during a public lecture as part of activities to mark his 50th birthday celebration held in Abuja on Wednesday.

He stressed the need for an orderly tax system to avoid chaotic taxes that disproportionately impact the poor. He reiterated that the tax reform measures include full income tax exemption for over 1/3 of workers, higher exemption thresholds for small businesses, and zero-rating essential consumptions.He emphasized the importance of credible data, inclusive policies, and investing in people.He stressed the need to refine the tariff system to reduce rates on raw materials and intermediate products to lower input costs.“We have priority sector incentives, boosting exports and providing tax relief to prevent public transition for Nigerian businesses operating internationally.Others are changes to income class laws to attract remote work opportunities, enabling Nigerian youths to thrive in the digital economy Introduction.“The government should focus on doing only what the private sector will not do, and collect the least amount of tasks in doing so without compromising the required minimum quality standard. The government should be intentional regarding non-inflationary spending priority and quality of spending.“After all, that is the essence of the socio economic contracts the people must seek first to understand because ignorance compounds vulnerability and steals opportunities, we must think independently, ask questions, engage and, most importantly, criticize constructively with the sole aim to build not to tear apart our nation,” he stated.He noted the need to make policies for a strong and stable Naira, such as allowing businesses to pay taxes in Naira despite having a comparative trade balance.Oyedele lamented that the tax system in Nigeria suffers from archaic laws, complex administrative structure, low tax morale, and widespread evasion. Speaking further, he explained the importance of prioritizing inclusion and national interest over sectional self-interest in policy-making.He advocated using credible data for policy decisions, rather than relying solely on popular views or sentiments.

By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The University of Port Harcourt has conferred an award of Honourary Doctor of Science, (Political Science), Honoris caucus on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike.The award was conferred on the FCT Minister in Abuja on Wednesday, by the Governing Council of the University, led by the Pro Chancellor, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa and the Vice Chancellor, Prof.

Owunari Abraham Georgewill. According to the Pro Chancellor, the award is in recognition of Nyesom Wike’s decades of selfless service to education, national development, and his enduring contributions to the university community.Describing the FCT Minister as a great Nigerian and alumnus of the University of Port Harcourt, Sen. Ohuabunwa said, “The University is really proud of you because in every endeavor of your life, you’ve made us proud. When you were the Chairman of the Local Government and you were in charge of Obiakpor, you defended the University. “When you were the Honourable Minister of Education, you attracted great achievement to the university. Today, the Faculty of Law is in the University because Nyesom Wike was the Honourable Minister. “When you became the Governor, you also made an indelible mark. You built one of the best convocation arenas in West Africa”.Ohuabunwa also acknowledged the donation of a multi-media centre to the higher institution by the FCT Minister and informed that the facility would be commissioned on the 25th of July as part of the programme for the university’s 50th anniversary celebration. “I think for me, it’s a thing of honour and joy to be the Golden Pro Chancellor at this time and having this great opportunity to present this letter of award”, he said, adding, “There is no better occasion to begin our anniversary celebrations than by honoring one of our most distinguished alumni. Your Excellency, your footprints are visible in the development of this university. We are proud to be associated with you”, he said.Also speaking at the award presentation, the Vice Chancellor, University of Port Harcourt, Prof. Owunari Abraham Georgewill, said the Act of the University of Port Harcourt empowers it to award honorary doctorate degrees to distinguished Nigerians who have contributed and are contributing immensely to the growth of the nation.He explained that the Senate of the University, after careful deliberation, awarded the Honourary doctorate degree to the FCT Minister in recognition of his service to the nation and the University of Port HarcourtHe said, “Today marks the beginning of the 50th anniversary celebration of the University of Port Harcourt. There could not have been a better place to start this ceremony than where we are today. “Minister, you are also a distinguished alumnus of that University and so the University is honouring you, not only for your national service but also your service to the University of Port Harcourt. Your footprints are just there for everybody to see at the University of Port Harcourt. “We are proud to be associated with you and the University is indeed very proud that you attended that University and you have the DNA of that University in you”.Accepting the award from his alma mater with deep appreciation and pride, the FCT Minister recounted his academic journey, beginning with a degree in the sciences, followed by a degree in Law and attributed much of his success to the solid academic foundation laid at the University of Port Harcourt.He said, “I didn’t realize at first that it was this University where my true journey began. After my national service, I pursued a law degree, which shaped my path as a public servant and an advocate for education. I owe a great deal to the Faculty of Social Sciences and the exceptional lecturers who molded many of us into who we are today. “The University gave me everything. I’ve always felt a deep sense of belonging and pride here, and I will continue to support its growth in any way I can. “This recognition means so much to me. I accept it with gratitude—alongside my family and loved ones. The students of this university deserve the best, and I will continue to do everything in my power to support them”, Wike statedAs a former student and later Minister of Education, Wike spearheaded the establishment of a Faculty of Law at the University of Port Harcourt. He also advocated for the proper separation and expansion of Social Sciences and Humanities into distinct faculties to promote better academic administration.The award, other certificates and insignia of honor will be presented to the Minister by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council on behalf of the University on Saturday, 26th July 2025, during the university’s milestone 50th Anniversary Celebration.

By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command on Wednesday said it is aware of a disturbing viral video showing a young woman found unconscious with her hands tied behind her in a hotel room located in the Gwarinpa area of Abuja.This was contained in a statement by Josephine Adeh, Police Public Relations Officer, FCT Police Command, Abuja”In swift response to the tragic incident, the Commissioner of Police, FCT, Ajao Adewale, has ordered a thorough and discreet investigation into the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate incident.

”Preliminary investigation reveals that the victim, later identified as Aladi Offikwu Johnson, also known as Tessy, a female from Benue State, checked into a hotel located at 3rd Avenue, Gwarinpa, on 16th June, 2025, in the company of an unidentified male who was later observed to have exited the premises without her.”The victim was discovered unconscious by hotel staff during routine service rounds, prompting immediate notification to the Police. She was confirmed dead upon medical evaluation.”While the investigation is ongoing, the Commissioner of Police urges members of the public to remain calm and allow the Police to carry out a comprehensive inquiry.”The Commissioner advises young ladies to exercise caution in their interactions, especially with unfamiliar individuals, and to always share their whereabouts with trusted friends or family members for safety purposes.”He also calls on hotel operators to strengthen internal security protocols, including mandatory identity verification for guests and the installation of functional surveillance systems to aid both deterrence and investigation.”The Command commiserates with the family of the deceased and assures that every effort is being made to bring the perpetrator(s) to justice.”Further updates will be communicated in due course,” the statement reads.