Nigeria News (Standard)
Accountant General Ogunjimi Orders Immediate Halt to 1% Stamp Duty Deduction by MDAs Nationwide
New circular mandates all federal ministries and agencies to comply with Nigeria Tax Act 2025, ending deductions from contractor payments
New circular mandates all federal ministries and agencies to comply with Nigeria Tax Act 2025, ending deductions from contractor payments
Federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) across Nigeria have been directed to stop deducting the one per cent stamp duty from payments made to contractors, vendors, suppliers and service providers with immediate effect. The order was issued in a circular signed by Dr Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, the Accountant General of the Federation, and became effective on Tuesday.
According to the circular, the move aligns with provisions contained in the Nigeria Tax Act 2025. The circular clarified that under the new law, stamp duty should only be imposed on chargeable instruments as expressly provided in the schedules of the Act—not on general payment transactions. “Henceforth, MDAs should note that stamp duty under the new regime is now applicable strictly to instruments and transactions expressly chargeable under the provisions and schedules of the Act,” Ogunjimi stated.
This development is expected to bring clarity and consistency to public sector transactions, following complaints from contractors and service providers about recurring deductions on payments for government projects. Stakeholders in the business community have long argued that such deductions increase project costs and discourage participation in public tenders. The Accountant General’s directive aims to prevent misapplication of statutory deductions and ensure strict compliance with tax laws.
While reactions are still emerging from affected parties, government officials insist that this change will enhance transparency in public finance management. The Ministry of Finance is expected to issue further implementation guidelines in coming weeks. As at press time, no official statement had been released by major contractors’ associations or opposition lawmakers regarding the policy shift.
The directive marks a significant step towards aligning federal payment practices with existing tax regulations. Observers say it may also influence how other tiers of government handle stamp duty charges going forward.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Police Arrest 11 Suspected Boko Haram Members and Informants in Kebbi State
Security agencies intensify crackdown on insurgency networks in North-West; suspects reportedly linked to recent attacks
Security agencies intensify crackdown on insurgency networks in North-West; suspects reportedly linked to recent attacks
The Nigeria Police Force has arrested 11 suspected members and alleged informants of the Boko Haram sect in Kebbi State, North-West Nigeria. The arrests were carried out on Thursday, 18 June, as part of ongoing security operations targeting insurgent activities in the region.
According to police sources, the suspects, identified as Lakurawa (local informants) and active Boko Haram operatives, were apprehended in a coordinated operation following intelligence reports on their movements and communications. The operation was conducted across several communities within Kebbi State, although specific locations were not disclosed at the time of this report.
Kebbi State has witnessed a surge in security challenges over recent months, with rising concerns about insurgent infiltration from neighbouring states and sporadic attacks attributed to armed groups. Security analysts say that the arrest of these suspects could disrupt planned operations by insurgents in the state and improve residents’ confidence in government efforts to restore peace.
Police authorities stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of each suspect’s involvement and whether they have direct links to previous attacks or are part of broader logistics networks supporting Boko Haram’s activities. The police have assured that all those found culpable will be prosecuted according to Nigerian law.
The arrest comes as security agencies intensify surveillance and collaborate with local communities across the North-West zone. Further deployments are expected as authorities seek to dismantle insurgency networks and prevent future attacks. Residents are being urged to continue providing relevant information to aid ongoing operations.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Kebbi Police Probe Alleged Assault of 10-Year-Old at Islamiyya School in Birnin Kebbi
Incident raises fresh concerns over child safety in religious schools as parents call for stricter oversight
Incident raises fresh concerns over child safety in religious schools as parents call for stricter oversight
Police authorities in Kebbi State have commenced investigation into the alleged assault of a 10-year-old pupil at an Islamiyya school in Birnin Kebbi, following reports of physical abuse that surfaced on Thursday. The incident, which reportedly occurred earlier this week, has reignited debate about child protection measures in religious learning centres across the state.
According to preliminary accounts, the young pupil was allegedly beaten by a school official within the premises of the Islamiyya institution located in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital. The matter was brought to public attention after concerned parents raised alarm over visible injuries sustained by the child, prompting calls for immediate intervention from state authorities and relevant agencies.
The case has highlighted longstanding gaps in monitoring and regulation of private and community-based religious schools—commonly referred to as Islamiyyas—in Kebbi and other states in North-West Nigeria. Many such institutions operate with minimal external oversight, leaving pupils vulnerable to various forms of abuse. Child rights advocates have repeatedly urged government to enforce stricter standards and ensure that all learning environments are safe for minors.
Kebbi State Police Command said it has launched a formal inquiry into the incident. “We are aware of the report concerning a minor allegedly assaulted at an Islamiyya school. The case is under investigation and appropriate action will be taken upon conclusion,” an official stated on Thursday. Community leaders also called for calm, urging residents to allow law enforcement to complete their probe.
As at Thursday evening, no arrests had been made. Parents and civil society groups are demanding swift justice and comprehensive reforms to prevent similar cases in future. The state government is yet to issue an official statement regarding new policy measures or planned oversight visits to religious schools.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ghana Match Nigeria’s World Cup Feat with Late Win Over Panama in Group Stage
Victory sees Ghana equal Nigeria’s record for African teams at FIFA World Cup, sparking renewed football rivalry
Victory sees Ghana equal Nigeria’s record for African teams at FIFA World Cup, sparking renewed football rivalry
Ghana’s national football team secured a dramatic late victory against Panama on Thursday, June 18, drawing level with Nigeria’s longstanding record for African teams at the FIFA World Cup. The match, held at an international venue, saw the Black Stars clinch three points in their final group stage fixture, ensuring their advancement and matching the Super Eagles’ previous tournament achievement.
The encounter remained tense throughout, with both teams creating chances but failing to convert until the dying moments. Ghana’s persistence paid off as they found the net in stoppage time, sending their supporters into celebration and confirming their place alongside Nigeria in African football history books. The result means Ghana have now equalled the farthest progress by any African side at the men’s World Cup, a milestone first set by Nigeria.
For many Nigerian football fans and analysts, Ghana’s achievement is significant given the historic rivalry between both West African nations. Nigeria set its World Cup benchmark with previous group stage heroics and knockout round appearances, often serving as a point of pride within the continent. Ghana’s recent performance now places them on equal footing, intensifying regional competition ahead of future qualifiers and tournaments.
Football stakeholders across Africa have lauded both sides for representing the continent with distinction on the global stage. While official statements from the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) were not immediately available as at press time, social media has been awash with reactions praising Ghana’s resilience and calling for renewed investment in youth development programmes across both countries.
As preparations begin for the next round of fixtures, focus will shift to whether Ghana can surpass Nigeria’s record and make further history for Africa. The Black Stars’ victory is expected to fuel anticipation among fans and add fresh impetus to ongoing debates about football development in West Africa.
Police Arrest 11 Suspected Boko Haram Members and Informants in Kebbi State
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Kebbi Police Probe Alleged Assault of 10-Year-Old at Islamiyya School in Birnin Kebbi
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