Finance ministry seeks banking sector collaboration for improved tax compliance and transparency in federal remittances

The Federal Government has called on commercial banks across Nigeria to support its efforts at strengthening revenue collection through a digital platform, as part of ongoing reforms to enhance fiscal transparency. The move was disclosed in Abuja on Friday, June 19, by officials from the Ministry of Finance, who stressed the need for effective collaboration with the banking sector.

According to the ministry, integrating banks into the digital revenue collection system will help reduce leakages and promote real-time tracking of payments made by individuals and businesses into government accounts. The initiative is expected to address longstanding concerns around accountability in federal revenue mobilisation and ensure that more funds are available for public services.

Revenue collection has remained a critical challenge for successive administrations in Nigeria, with experts blaming inefficient processes and cash-based transactions for significant losses to the national purse. The push for a fully digital system is part of broader economic reforms aimed at improving non-oil revenue amid fluctuating crude oil prices and persistent budget deficits.

A finance ministry spokesperson said the new digital approach would “bring greater efficiency and transparency” to how government funds are collected. The official urged banks to leverage their existing infrastructure to support seamless adoption of electronic channels. Bank representatives present at the meeting welcomed the proposal but highlighted the need for further engagement on technical requirements and security measures.

With this renewed focus on technology-driven revenue collection, government aims to improve tax compliance rates and curb underreporting by businesses. The finance ministry is expected to roll out pilot programmes in select states before expanding nationwide, while ongoing discussions with stakeholders will continue over coming months.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/889043-fg-seeks-banks-support-to-strengthen-revenue-collection-through-digital-platform.html

Former agency head calls for urgent investigation as child abuse case sparks outrage in South-East state

A former Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has condemned the reported assault of a 10-year-old boy in Anambra State, urging authorities to ensure prompt justice for the victim. The incident, which took place in one of the state’s communities, has drawn widespread concern from child rights advocates and local residents.

According to information released on Friday, the ex-NAPTIP chief expressed deep worry over the alleged attack, describing it as a violation of Nigeria’s Child Rights Act. The details surrounding the assault remain unclear, but calls have intensified for police and social welfare officials in Anambra to investigate the matter without delay and bring any perpetrators to book.

The case highlights persistent challenges facing children in some parts of Nigeria, where reports of abuse and neglect continue despite existing legal protections. Stakeholders have repeatedly warned that such incidents undermine efforts to guarantee child safety across South-East states and beyond.

In a statement, the former NAPTIP Director-General stressed that all children are entitled to protection under Nigerian law and called on relevant agencies to act swiftly. “Justice must not only be done but seen to be done in cases like this,” the ex-agency head stated. Child protection groups echoed this sentiment, urging government at both state and federal levels to prioritise enforcement of child rights legislation.

As at press time, it was not clear if arrests had been made in connection with the assault. Authorities are expected to provide updates as investigations progress. The situation continues to generate discussion among community leaders and advocacy organisations focused on safeguarding children’s welfare.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/889037-ex-naptip-dg-condemns-assault-of-10-year-old-boy-in-anambra-seeks-justice.html

Rapper draws on tough upbringing in Enugu’s Abakpa Nike to gain traction with new release ‘Core’

Khamzy, a rapper and songwriter from Abakpa Nike in Enugu State, has released a new trap single titled ‘Core’, positioning himself as one of the emerging voices in Nigeria’s Eastern music landscape. The single, which dropped this June, is already attracting attention among fans of trap and hip-hop within the region.

Khamzy’s music is rooted in his experiences growing up in Abakpa Nike, an underserved community in Enugu East Local Government Area. His lyrics reflect both the challenges and aspirations of life on the streets, blending emotional storytelling with contemporary trap rhythms. Although known to be reserved offstage, Khamzy uses his music as a platform to express his ambitions and the realities faced by many youths in his area.

The release of ‘Core’ comes at a time when more artists from Eastern Nigeria are gaining national recognition. Industry analysts say talents like Khamzy are contributing to a growing movement that puts the region’s unique stories and sounds into the spotlight. Music promoters in Enugu say the rise of homegrown acts is helping to diversify Nigeria’s entertainment industry and offer local youths alternative avenues for self-expression.

While Khamzy has not publicly commented on his future plans, those close to the artist say he remains focused on building his brand beyond Enugu while staying true to his roots. Stakeholders in the Eastern music scene believe that as more artists like Khamzy break through, communities such as Abakpa Nike will continue to gain visibility both within Nigeria and abroad.

Source: https://guardian.ng/life/music/khamzy-east-side-trap-voice-rising-from-abakpa-nike/