Tinubu Tax Reform Bill

The new tax reform bill brings several benefits to the masses, as outlined in the document: 

Support for Remote Work and Digital Economy: Changes to income tax laws will facilitate remote work opportunities for Nigerians, empowering youths in the global digital economy.

Promotion of Exports: Zero-rated VAT and other incentives aim to encourage exports in goods, services, and intellectual property.

Relief for Small Businesses: Small businesses with an annual turnover of ₦50 million or less will benefit from tax exemptions, including withholding tax, VAT, and a 0% corporate income tax rate.

Reduced Personal Tax Burden: Minimum wage earners will be exempt from PAYE, and over 90% of workers in the private and public sectors will experience reduced tax burdens. 

Essential Goods Exemptions: VAT exemptions on food, education, healthcare, rent, public transportation, fuel products, and renewable energy will alleviate the cost of living, especially for low-income households.

Corporate Tax Relief: Corporate income tax rates will reduce from 30% to 25% over two years, and loss-making companies will no longer face minimum tax. 

Harmonized Tax System: Earmarked taxes on companies will be eliminated, replaced by a unified, lower single levy.

Enhanced Business Investment: Businesses will receive input VAT credits on assets and services, enhancing investment competitiveness and reducing costs.

Equitable Revenue Sharing: VAT revenue sharing will be more equitable to ensure fair treatment of states with fewer headquarter companies.

Simplified Compliance: Allowing taxes on foreign currency transactions to be paid in naira reduces exchange rate pressures and simplifies compliance.

Economic Contributions Rewarded: The rationalization of tax incentives aims to provide a level playing field and reward states' economic contributions.

New National Fiscal Policy: The policy emphasizes fair taxation, responsible borrowing, and sustainable spending.

These reforms aim to create a more inclusive, equitable, and competitive economic environment for all citizens.

Spotlight on Night Markets (Oja-Ale)

In many societies, night markets (locally known as Oja-Ale) have become a vibrant hub for economic activities, catering to diverse needs ranging from food and fashion to entertainment and essential services. The extension of business hours into the night provides several economic benefits, fostering growth and development for both individuals and the broader economy. However, for night markets to thrive, the government must ensure adequate infrastructure, particularly street lighting and security.

Economic Benefits of Long Economic Activities and Night Markets

Increased Revenue for Businesses
Operating late into the night allows businesses to serve a wider customer base, including those who may be unavailable during regular business hours. Vendors and traders in Oja-Ale benefit from the opportunity to generate more income, which, in turn, improves their living standards and contributes to the local economy.

Job Creation
Extended business hours create additional employment opportunities for people such as security personnel, cleaners, transport operators, and vendors. This is particularly significant in urban areas with high unemployment rates.

Boosting Tourism
Night markets are often cultural attractions, drawing tourists who seek unique experiences. They offer a blend of local cuisine, art, and entertainment, enhancing the region's appeal and generating foreign exchange.

Promoting Informal Economy
Night markets often serve as an entry point for small-scale entrepreneurs who lack the resources to establish formal businesses. This supports grassroots economic activities and contributes to financial inclusion.

Reduced Congestion in Day Markets
By spreading economic activities across longer hours, night markets help reduce the overcrowding and stress associated with daytime markets, creating a more balanced and accessible trading environment.

The Role of Government in Supporting Night Markets

For night markets to fully realize their potential, the government has a critical role in creating an enabling environment. Two primary areas of intervention are provision of street lighting and enhanced security.

Provision of Street Lighting
Well-lit environments are critical for night-time economic activities. Street lights:

Enhance visibility, making it easier for buyers and sellers to interact.

Reduce accidents and improve overall navigation within market areas.

Discourage criminal activities, creating a sense of safety for all participants.

Investment in solar-powered street lights can provide an affordable, sustainable, and reliable solution for areas prone to electricity shortages.

Enhanced Security Measures
Safety concerns are one of the major deterrents to night-time economic activities. Governments can address this by:

Deploying trained security personnel to patrol market areas.

Establishing surveillance systems such as CCTV cameras.

Encouraging community policing initiatives to foster trust and cooperation between traders and law enforcement.

Conclusion

The economic benefits of extended business hours and night markets are undeniable. They stimulate commerce, create jobs, and enhance the cultural and social fabric of a community. However, these benefits can only be maximized if governments prioritize the provision of essential infrastructure such as street lighting and security. By doing so, night markets like Oja-Ale can flourish, contributing significantly to the economic resilience and vibrancy of cities and towns.

HOW TO LOCATE ALL THE NYSC ORIENTATION CAMPS IN THE 36 STATES INCLUDING F.C.T

1. ABIA : On your way to Umuahia, come down at Bus stop gate in Umuahia, take a cab going to Ohafia via Igbere. Tell the driver you are going to Igbere before Abriba. Once you stop at Igbere which is just about 400 - 500 naira from Umuahia. Cross to the other side of the road and walk straight to camp. Please, on no account should you tell the driver that you're going to Bende, because Bende Town is a bit far from Igbere where your camp is located.

2. ANAMBRA : Coming from Onitsha, go to upper iweka and enter a bus going to Awka, as soon as you'd enter the bus, don't forget to remind the driver or conductor that you'll be stopping at Amawbia junction. When u get there, look for a bike man or keke that'll take you into the camp at Umuawulu. The distance from Onitsha to Amawbia is from 20 to 40 minutes and the total price might range from 400 to 500. Coming from Awka, go to unizik junction and enter a bus going to Onitsha, as soon as you'd enter the bus, don't forget to remind the driver or conductor that you'll be stopping at Amawbia junction. From there, get a Keke or taxi straight to NYSC orientation camp in Umuawu/Abaukwu

3. KANO : On your way to Kano state, tell the driver to drop you at Unguwa uku. When he stops, you'll see buses waiting to drop people at Karaye camp at the rate of 600 to 800 naira, but if the driver didn't stop you at Unguwa uku, then stop at the final bus stop, Sabon-gari park at new road and board a Keke to Bata for 50 to 70 naira, from there, find a bus to Kabuga park, when you'd get to Kabuga park, board a bus to Karaye camp.

4. JIGAWA : From Kano, take a bus going to Dutse, tell the driver that you'll stop at the NYSC orientation camp in Fanisau, the journey will last for about 1 hour 30 minutes. The camp is located opposite an Army barrack.

5. BAUCHI : From the last bus stop in Bauchi, take a taxi to Muda Lawal park, then take another bus going to Wailo from the park. The NYSC orientation camp is located in Wailo.

6. RIVERS : When you'd get to Port harcourt, stop at Eleme junction, and ask for directions where Nonwa or Gokana buses are loading, and board a bus to the orientation camp. Make sure you'd tell the driver that you're going to the camp, the NYSC orientation camp is along the road. The journey is about 1 hour.

7. OYO : When you'd get to Ibadan, stop at Iwo road. From Iwo road, take a taxi of 250 to 500 naira going to Ojoo and tell them to drop you at Iseyin park. From Iseyin park, take a bus going to the orientation camp for up to 1000 to 1200 naira and be prepared for more that 2 hours journey.

8. DELTA : For those coming to Delta from Lagos and the whole of South West or Benin, enter Asaba bus or Onitsha bus and tell the driver to drop you at Issele-Uku junction. When you'd get to the junction, cross the express and take a bike straight to the orientation camp, which will range from 150 - 200 naira. For those coming from Enugu and the whole of South east, enter Onitsha bus and stop at upper Iweka, from upper Iweka, enter Asaba bus from 200 to 250 naira and drop at Koko junction which is the last bus stop and from there you'll see Issele-uku bus. Enter the bus and drop at Issele-Uku junction. When you'd get to the junction, cross the express and take a bike straight to the orientation camp, which will range from 150 - 200 naira. The journey to Issele-uku from Asaba is about 25 to 35 minutes.

9. ADAMAWA : From Yola, take a taxi to Vinikilang. From Vinikilang, you'll get a Keke straight to the camp. You can also take a drop that will carry only you or with your friends straight to the camp from whichever park you are arriving from. The price for a drop will range from 800 to 1200 naira.

10. KATSINA : From Kano, board a bus going to Katsina, from the park in Katsina, you'll get a bike straight to the camp, located at Mani road.

11. NASARAWA : From Abuja, board a bus and stop at Mararaba, and take about 300 naira bus to Keffi and tell the driver to stop you at the NYSC orientation camp.

12. CROSS RIVER:  From Lagos and South west states, stop at Calabar and take a straight bus to Obubra and tell them to stop you at Obubra junction, and enter a bike of 25 to 300 straight to the NYSC orientation camp. From Abuja, enter a Calabar bus and tell the driver that you'll be coming down at Obubra junction, at Obubra junction, enter a bike of 250 to 300 straight to the NYSC orientation camp. From Onitsha, stop at upper Iweka and enter IKOM motor, tell the driver that you'll be coming down at Obubra junction, at Obubra junction, enter a bike of 250 to 300 straight to the NYSC orientation camp.

13. SOKOTO : From the park in Sokoto city, get a bike man and tell him to take you to Wamakko. It will cost you from 250 to 300 naira, the camp is located at the left side of the road.

14. KADUNA : From the Kaduna city, enter a bus going to Chikun local government, tell the driver that you're going to the NYSC orientation camp. The camp is located at the Kaduna/Abuja expressway and costs 250 to 300 naira from the city.

15. KOGI : From anywhere in Kogi state, board a bus going to Kabba, stop at the last bus stop and board a bike to the NYSC orientation camp.

16. OSUN: From Osogbo, enter a bus going to Ede, as soon as they stop you, look for a bike that'll take you straight to the NYSC orientation camp for the rate of 200 to 300 naira. From Lagos, Ibadan, Kogi, Abeokuta or Abuja, look for a bus going to Osun state, immediately you get to Ife or Ilesha, tell the driver that you'll stop at Gbogan, from Gbogan, you will take a direct bus to the camp which is very close.

17. ABUJA/FCT : Stop at Jabi park, take a taxi or Keke to Wuse market and board a bus going to Kubwa village. The last bus stop is at Kubwa market, from the Kubwa market, the NYSC orientation camp is just a walking distance or you could just board a bike to the camp.

18. LAGOS : From Ikeja, take a bus to Iyana Ipaja, when you'd get to Iyana Ipaja, take a bus to Agege or Iyapaja and tell the driver to stop you at the NYSC orientation camp. From Ojota, take a bus to Oshodi, from Oshodi, take a bus to Iyana Ipaja and stop at their last bus stop which is under bridge, take the road on the right where you were stopped and walk down straight or ask people around the bus stop where the nysc camp is located and they will direct you appropriately. From Oyingbo, take a bus going to costain, when you'd get to costain, take a bus to Ojuelegba, from Ojuelegba, take a bus going to Oshodi, from Oshodi, take a bus to Iyana Ipaja and stop at their last bus stop which is under bridge, take the road on the right where you were stopped and walk down straight or ask people around the bus stop where the NYSC orientation camp is located and they will direct you appropriately.

19. OGUN : From Lagos, take a direct bus to Sagamu, when the bus stops, enter a bike straight to the orientation camp. From Abeokuta, take a bus to Sagamu, when the bus stops, enter a bike straight to the orientation camp. From Abeokuta to Sagamu is close to an hour.

20. IMO : Coming from Owerri, take a bus from Ama JK to Nkwerre. Make sure that you'd tell the driver that you're going to the NYSC camp in Eziama Obaire Nkwerre, stop at Nkume junction and take a bike to the camp. The distance from Owerri to the camp is like 40 minutes to 1 hour and the bus charge will be ranging from 400 to 600.

21. ENUGU : Coming from any part of Nigeria please proceed to Enugu City. When you get to Enugu City, locate Holy Ghost Park, ask for vehicles going to Awgu and board one of them straight to the camp. Coming from South, for eg. Port Harcourt-Calabar Axis. You don’t have to get to Enugu City, just board a bus heading to Enugu, inform the driver that you will be stopping at Awgu NYSC Camp. Remind him again, once you have passed Okigwe. 

Coming by air, board an airplane to the Enugu Airport. From the terminal, hire a cab straight to the camp or you can get to Holy Ghost Park and board a vehicle straight to the NYSC Camp. A second option by air, is the Owerri Airport, from Owerri, proceed by road to Okigwe, from Okigwe you will easily get a cab to the Awgu NYSC camp.

22. BORNO : Coming from Kano, tell the drivers that you're going to Gumel in Jigawa state, they'll direct you to a place that you'll get a taxi. The taxi will take you to a place that you'll get a straight bus to the College of Education, Gumel, where the temporary orientation camp is located.

23. YOBE : From Kano, get a direct bus going to Yobe. The camp is located at Potiskum. From Lagos, take a direct bus to Potiskum. From Onitsha, take a direct bus to Potiskum.

24. GOMBE : From Gombe park, enter a straight bus to the camp. The orientation camp is located at Science Technical college, Amanda, km 21, Gombe-Bauchi Highway-near International Airport Gombe.

25. AKWA IBOM : From AKTC park in Uyo, you might see a direct bus to camp, but if you didn't see, there's another way to get to camp without problems. Take a Keke to a place called PORIENTATIOdown to Oron road and ask where they board Nsit Atai buses.

26. KWARA : From Ilorin, take a bike to Maraba, that's where you'll get bus going to Yikpata camp. The buses will stop you at the camp entrance.

27. BAYELSA : Get a bus going to Yenagoa and tell the driver to stop you at Mbiama (just before they enter Bayelsa), at Mbiama you will see cabs going to Kaiama, join one and tell them you will stop at Kaiama park. From Kaiama park, take a direct bike to camp.

28. EDO : From Benin, take a bus to Okada. From Okada, you'll see a cab or bike that'll take you straight to the orientation camp.

29. TARABA : The NYSC orientation camp in Taraba is located at Sibre Airport Road, Jalingo. On your way to Jalingo, you'll be dropped in the gate of the NYSC camp, because it's located at the express.

30. ZAMFARA : From Kaduna, stop at Kawo park, get a bike or taxi to NDA junction where Zamfara park is located and get a bus to Zamfara, the camp is along the road at Tsafe LGA.

31. BENUE: From Makurdi last bus stop, cross to the other side and directly in front of Winners Chapel church, there are cars going to Gboko, from Gboko, you'll drop at the NYSC camp just after police college by the road side.

32. PLATEAU : From Jos, take a straight bus to Mangu where the orientation camp is located for a rate of 500 naira. The journey will take 45 minutes to 1 hour.

33. EBONYI : From Abakaliki, enter a bus to Afikpo Macgregor camp. Stop at the junction and take a straight bike to the camp.

34. KEBBI : From Mando park in Kaduna, get a vehicle going to Yauri/Kontagora, drop at Yauri. From Yauri, get a vehicle going to Koko. After dropping at Koko, get a straight cab to the orientation camp located at Dakingari. From Ibadan, get a vehicle going to Kontagora, Niger state, drop at Kontagora and get a vehicle going to Koko. After dropping at Koko junction, get a straight cab to the orientation camp located at Dakingari.

35. NIGER : From Minna, take a bike to Mobil filling station and take a bus straight to Paiko where the orientation camp is located.

36. EKITI : From Ado-Ekiti, get a straight bus to the NYSC orientation camp located at Ise-Emure Ekiti. The price for the bus will be around 400 naira.

37. ONDO: From Akure, take a taxi to Benin garage, you'll see a vehicle going to Ikare.  From the last bus stop, take a bike straight to the orientation camp.

nyscupdateng

History of Minimum Wage Increments in Nigeria

Here’s a detailed look at the history of minimum wage increments in Nigeria, including dates and amounts:

1. 1981 – ₦125 per month

   - The first official minimum wage in Nigeria was established in 1981, under President Shehu Shagari. The economy was relatively stable, and this wage was deemed acceptable for the living standards of the time.

2. 1991 – ₦250 per month

   - A decade later, the minimum wage was revised to ₦250 per month during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida. This increment was part of broader economic reforms aimed at addressing inflation and other economic challenges.

3. 1998 – ₦3,000 per month

   - Under General Abdulsalami Abubakar, the minimum wage saw a significant jump to ₦3,000 per month. This increase was in response to the devaluation of the naira and the general increase in the cost of living over the previous years.

4. 2000 – ₦5,500 per month

   - In the democratic era, under President Olusegun Obasanjo, the minimum wage was increased to ₦5,500 per month in 2000. This was part of a series of policies aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerian workers following decades of military rule.

5. 2004 – ₦7,500 per month

   - Continuing the trend of gradual increases, the minimum wage was raised to ₦7,500 per month in 2004. This increment was still under President Obasanjo’s administration and followed extensive negotiations with labour unions.

6. 2011 – ₦18,000 per month

   - After a long period of negotiations and strikes by various labour unions, the minimum wage was increased to ₦18,000 per month in 2011 under President Goodluck Jonathan. This significant increase was a response to the global economic situation and the rise in domestic inflation.

7. 2019 – ₦30,000 per month

   - The most recent adjustment came under President Muhammadu Buhari, who signed a new minimum wage bill into law in April 2019, setting the minimum wage at ₦30,000 per month. This came after several months of negotiations and was seen as a move to appease workers amidst growing inflation and dissatisfaction with economic policies.

The evolution of the minimum wage in Nigeria reflects the country’s economic challenges and the government’s attempts to balance fiscal capabilities with the need to ensure a livable income for its workers.

The Impending Cholera Epidemic Fueled by High Cost of Sachet Water and Food Insecurity in Nigeria

Amidst the complex web of challenges facing Nigeria, the convergence of high-cost sachet water and food insecurity has bemm come a potent catalyst for the. Ioutbreammk of cholera, a preventable yet deadly waterborne disease. This deadly synergy has the potential to trigger a 461hcatastrophic public health crisis in the country.

The high cost of portable water have forced many Nigerians to resort to unsafe water sources, including contaminated rivers and streams. This precarious situation is compounded by widespread food insecurity, which has left a significant portion of the population vulnerable to malnutrition and weakened immune systems. These factors create a perfect environment for the rapid spread of cholera, a highly infectious waterborne disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.

In the context of Nigeria, where access to clean water and proper sanitation remains a challenge for many, the combination of high-cost portable water and food insecurity sets the stage for a potential cholera epidemic. Contaminated water sources, coupled with poor hygiene practices, create a breeding ground for the cholera bacterium, leading to outbreaks that can quickly spiral out of control.

Furthermore, food insecurity exacerbates the situation by compromising the nutritional status and overall health of individuals, making them more susceptible to cholera infection and less resilient in fighting off the disease. Malnourished individuals are at a higher risk of severe cholera complications, which can lead to a higher mortality rate during outbreaks.

The looming threat of a cholera epidemic in Nigeria demands urgent and comprehensive action. Addressing the high cost of portable water and food insecurity requires a multi-pronged approach that encompasses investment in clean water infrastructure, improved sanitation facilities, and sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, public health education and awareness campaigns are crucial to promoting safe hygiene practices and preventing the spread of cholera.

In conclusion, the intersection of high-cost portable water and food insecurity in Nigeria presents a serious risk for the outbreak of cholera. The urgency to address these interconnected challenges cannot be overstated, as the consequences of inaction could be devastating for the health and well-being of the Nigerian population. It is imperative that concerted efforts are made to ensure access to clean water and nutritious food, thereby mitigating the risk of a cholera epidemic and safeguarding public health.

-Steve Owaduge writes from Akure 

Remembering Chief M.K.O. Abiola and the Unfinished Struggle

As Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day, it's crucial to reflect on the tumultuous journey towards democracy and honour the sacrifices of leaders like Chief M.K.O. Abiola, who fought tirelessly for the nation's democratic ideals. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped Nigeria's political landscape.

Chief M.K.O. Abiola, a prominent figure in Nigerian history, symbolizes the arduous battle for democracy. His unwavering commitment to democratic principles and his ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of a free and fair electoral process have left an indelible mark on the nation. Despite his overwhelming popularity and the mandate he received from the people in the 1993 presidential election, the military regime at the time annulled the election, depriving the Nigerian populace of their democratic voice.

The struggle of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and countless others exemplifies the enduring fight for democracy in Nigeria. However, as the nation celebrates its hard-won democratic freedoms, it's crucial to acknowledge that those who now benefit from the struggle often neglect the plight of the masses. While some have risen to positions of power and influence, the concerns of the everyday Nigerian citizen have been overshadowed by political maneuvering and self-interest.

The irony of the situation cannot be overstated. The very individuals who once championed the cause of democracy and stood in solidarity with the people have, in some cases, become disconnected from the everyday realities and struggles of the masses. Political leaders and influential figures who have ascended to positions of authority must not forget the sacrifices made by Chief M.K.O. Abiola, his contemporaries, and the Nigerian people at large.

As the nation reflects on Democracy Day, it's imperative to recognize that the patience of the masses has its limits. The spirit of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and the collective yearning for genuine democracy continue to resonate within the hearts of the people. The unfulfilled promises and unaddressed grievances of the populace serve as a somber reminder that the quest for true democracy is ongoing and that the revenge of the masses against those who have neglected their needs may be imminent.

In conclusion, Nigerian Democracy Day serves as a time for remembrance, reflection, and a call to action. The struggle of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and others should not be in vain. It is a reminder that the true essence of democracy lies in serving the interests of the people and upholding the principles of justice, equality, and progress. As the nation moves forward, it must ensure that the sacrifices of the past are honoured, and the voices of the masses are heard and heeded. The revenge of the masses, in the form of a demand for genuine democracy and accountability, looms on the horizon, and it is a call that cannot be ignored.

The Intricate Web of Political Cabals in Nigeria: A Tale of Ondo State

Introduction:

The political landscape in Nigeria has long been plagued by the influence of political cabals. Recent events in Ondo state have shed light on the extent of this issue, revealing a web of deceit, power struggles, and fake news that have hindered effective governance.

From the strained relationship between former Governor Akeredolu and his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to the controversies surrounding Akeredolu's illness and eventual demise, it is clear that political cabals play a significant role in shaping the country's governance culture.

The Rift Between Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa:

Speculation and unconfirmed stories have surrounded the relationship between Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa, fueling political skirmishes that have plagued Ondo state for years. Supporters of both leaders, including close family members, have become the instigators of this conflict, forming what is now known as the cabals. The true nature of their relationship and its impact on governance remains a mystery, with genuine research likely to yield nothing more than unfounded rumors and clandestine maneuvers.

Governance Based on Fake News:

The events that unfolded in Ondo state in recent months have exposed the prevalence of fake news and concoctions in Nigerian governance. Akeredolu, during his medical trip to Germany, entrusted his powers to Aiyedatiwa, affirming his loyalty and competence. However, the narrative quickly shifted, leading to the removal of media aides attached to Aiyedatiwa and the subsequent fabrication of multiple allegations against him by the state house of assembly. The situation brought Ondo to its knees, with reports emerging of rampant corruption and embezzlement by those who blocked access to the ailing governor.

Opposing Views and Controversies:

The opposition Peoples Democratic Party accused APC cabals of profligacy and stealing government resources during Akeredolu's absence. However, the APC's state chairman refuted these allegations, dismissing them as political theatrics. Even after Akeredolu's death, conflicting accounts emerged regarding the location and cause of his demise, further perpetuating the discord amongst his supporters. The controversies surrounding his illness ranged from Leukemia to protracted prostate cancer, leading to a fragmented narrative about his health.

The Legacy of Akeredolu:

For those who knew Akeredolu personally, his legacy remains untainted by the power struggles and animosity that surrounded his time in office. They remember him as a courageous, truthful, and humane leader, contrasting sharply with the actions of his new friends, relations, and political opportunists. It is inconceivable to believe that he would have approved of the decisions made to block Aiyedatiwa, forge signatures, and create factions within his government.

A Broader Pattern:

The situation in Ondo state is not an isolated incident. The influence of cabals has disrupted previous administrations at both the federal and state levels. From the strained relationship between Obasanjo and Atiku, Yar'Adua and Jonathan, to Buhari and Osinbajo, these power struggles orchestrated by cabals have hindered effective governance. Fake impeachments, imaginary offenses, and the erosion of trust within political partnerships have become all too common.

Conclusion:

The events in Ondo state serve as a stark reminder of the pervasive influence of political cabals in Nigeria's governance culture. The struggle for power, personal gain, and the manipulation of leaders by those around them continue to hinder progress. To move forward, principals must rise above the concoctions and machinations of cabals, focusing on the greater good and ensuring that their leadership serves all Nigerians, rather than a select few. Only then can the nation truly progress and overcome the obstacles that hinder its growth.