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2018 Budget: Senator Zagi Applauds FG’s Allocation to Critical Sectors of the Economy

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As Nigerians continue to applaud the economic viability of the 2018 budget proposal submitted to the National Assembly recently by President Muhammadu Buhari, former member of the National Assembly, Senator Caleb Zagi has commended the federal government for allocating substantial funds to critical sectors of the economy such as Agriculture, Power, Road, Railway and Security.

Briefing newsmen in Abuja, Senator Zagi stated that some of the projects highlighted in the budget proposal and funds allocated to them were indicators for “a better and brighter tomorrow” capable of delivering dividends of democracy at the door steps of Nigerians.

He said that the N555.88 billion allocated to Power, Works and Housing, N263.10 billion, N118.98 billion, N95.11 billion, N150 billion and N145 billion allocated to Transportation, Agriculture and Rural Development, Water Resources, Special Intervention Programme and Defence respectively are all indicators the Buhari administration meant well for Nigerians.

According to Senator Zagi, the allocation of N300 billion for the construction and rehabilitation of roads across the country, the N10 billion for the 2nd Niger Bridge as well as the proposed completion of East-West Road, with a provision of about N17.32 billion are also commendable considering the deplorable state of roads in the country.

“Implementation of these budgetary provisions will enhance cheap transportation and promote commerce”, he remarked.

Speaking further, Senator Zagi who represented Kaduna South Senatorial District during the 6th Senate in the National Assembly said “the allocation confirms Federal Government’s commitment to stable and sufficient electricity supply to power the nation’s industrial sector for economic prosperity as well as its determination to fix dilapidated roads and bridges across the country.”

Senator Zagi who is also a renowned lawyer commended the federal government on ongoing railway projects saying “the economic fortunes envisaged in the revolutionary railway projects underscores the importance the Federal Government attaches to good transportation system in the country and commerce.”

While appealing to members of the National Assembly to ensure quick passage of the budget, he also appealed to the federal government to also pay special attention to other crucial areas of the economy such as health, education, solid Mineral and information.

On security issue, Senator Zagi commended the Muhammadu Buhari led administration for decimating members of the sect that has caused grievous damage to lives and property in the North eastern part of the country and urge same efforts to be exerted to contain the incessant attacks by the Fulani herdsmen in various parts of the country.

He also commended government for allocating a whooping sum of N65 billion for the Presidential Amnesty Programme as well as increasing the budget of the Niger Delta Ministry from N34.20 billion in 2017 to N53.89 billion in 2018 to speedily develop and provide modern infrastructure in the area.

This, he said will also go a long way in ensuring peace in the Niger Delta region and increase in oil production and economic activities in the region.

It would be recalled that the key parameters of 2018 budget, tagged “Budget of Consolidation’’, which was presented to the joint session of the National Assembly by President Muhammadu Buhari include a crude oil benchmark price of 45 dollars per barrel, oil production estimate of 2.3 million barrels per day and exchange rate of N305 per dollar. It also has projected oil revenue of N2.442 trillion and non-oil projection of N4.165 trillion. Senator Zagi believes that these parameters and estimates are quite realistic and achievable under the circumstances.

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Hon. Hamma Adama Ali Kumo Felicitates APC National Chairman @ 58

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Hon. Hamma Adama Ali Kumo, Deputy National Financial Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), has joined party leaders and members nationwide in celebrating the APC National Chairman on the occasion of his 58th birthday.In a goodwill message, Hon. Kumo described the Chairman as a visionary leader whose commitment to democratic ideals and party unity has been a source of inspiration to millions of Nigerians. He noted that the Chairman’s leadership has been marked by resilience, inclusivity, and a deep sense of responsibility, qualities that have strengthened the APC and consolidated its role in Nigeria’s democratic journey.“At 58, our National Chairman exemplifies the finest qualities of statesmanship. His dedication to building consensus, fostering unity, and advancing the cause of good governance has left indelible marks on our party and our nation,” Kumo stated.The APC Deputy National Financial Secretary emphasized that the celebrant’s leadership style has been defined by integrity and courage, guiding the party through challenging times with wisdom and foresight. He added that the Chairman’s ability to inspire confidence across diverse political and social groups has ensured that the APC remains a beacon of hope for Nigerians.“As Chairman, you have demonstrated uncommon vision and fortitude. Your stewardship has strengthened our internal structures, enhanced our democratic processes, and positioned the APC as a party of progress and inclusivity. We celebrate you today not only as a leader but as a patriot whose contributions continue to shape the future of our country,” Kumo said.Hon. Kumo, who also serves as Chairman of the ITF Board of Trustees, highlighted the Chairman’s role in mentoring younger politicians and promoting policies that encourage national development. He noted that the Chairman’s emphasis on unity and service has created a culture of trust and collaboration within the APC, ensuring its continued relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape.“As you mark this milestone, we pray for renewed strength, wisdom, and fulfillment in your continued service to our party and our country. May the years ahead bring greater accomplishments and enduring peace,” Kumo concluded.The 58th birthday celebration of the APC National Chairman has drawn tributes from across the political spectrum, underscoring his influence and the respect he commands as a leader. His contributions to the growth of the APC and the deepening of Nigeria’s democracy remain a source of inspiration to party members and citizens alike.

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EFCC Returns N125m Recovered From Alleged Land Fraud to Lagos Businessman

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has returned N125 million recovered from a suspect in an alleged land fraud case to a Lagos businessman, Akinsewa Akiode.

The commission disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, saying the money was handed over to Akiode on Thursday by officials of the EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 in Ikoyi following the conclusion of investigations.

According to the EFCC, the investigation followed a petition by Akiode, who alleged that Olufemi Fashehun collected N125 million from him for the purchase of a 550-square-metre property at No. 10, Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun, Lagos.

The businessman reportedly discovered after completing the transaction that the property had been involved in litigation since 2011, a development he alleged was concealed from him before the sale.

The EFCC said its investigation established that Fashehun had previously received several court processes, including injunctions restraining him from developing the property, but allegedly failed to disclose the ongoing legal dispute before receiving the payment.

Akiode subsequently lost both the property and structures he had begun developing on the land, prompting him to petition the EFCC for intervention.

Following its investigation, the commission said it recovered the full N125 million from Fashehun and refunded the money to Akiode through Sterling Bank drafts.

The recovery is part of a series of restitution efforts by the anti-graft agency. Earlier, the EFCC returned N108 million recovered during an investigation into an alleged fraud involving two former employees of Greenwich Planet Sun King Nigeria Limited.

In October 2025, the commission also handed over three houses, two vehicles and N1.1 million recovered from a convicted fraudster to one of his victims in Ibadan after a Federal High Court ordered the assets forfeited.

Speaking during the latest handover, the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, Bawa Kaltungo, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to investigating economic and financial crimes, recovering proceeds of illicit activities and ensuring restitution to victims where possible.

The EFCC did not disclose whether criminal charges had been filed against Fashehun in connection with the alleged transaction.

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Jigawa Police Arrest Suspects, Recover Tricycle, Motorcycles, 11 Phones

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The Jigawa State Police Command has arrested several suspects in connection with alleged theft, shopbreaking and possession of suspected stolen property across the state.

The arrests were made during a series of intelligence-led operations conducted by police operatives in different parts of Jigawa, resulting in the recovery of a tricycle, two motorcycles and 11 Android mobile phones.

In a statement issued on Friday, the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Lawal Shi’isu, said operatives attached to the Maigatari and Malam Madori Divisions arrested three suspects allegedly found with stolen Royal and Boxer motorcycles.

The suspects were identified as 30-year-old Abubakar Ya’u and 28-year-old Aminu Ya’u, both residents of Dantanoma Quarters in Gumel Local Government Area, and 25-year-old Abdullahi Bala from Garbagar Village in Guri LGA.

The police also arrested 31-year-old Anas Nuhu from Jobe Village in Dawakin Tofa LGA of Kano State. He was allegedly found in possession of a tricycle with registration number MDB 478 QE and Union number GWL 1842, which police said was suspected to have been stolen from a park in Tofa LGA.

According to the command, Nuhu confessed during interrogation to stealing the tricycle. The case has subsequently been charged to court, while investigations into the other cases have been completed and the suspects arraigned for prosecution.

In a separate operation, police arrested 18-year-old Mamman Adamu of Tutiyari Village in Kirikasamma LGA following a report of a shop burglary in Birniwa.

The suspect was allegedly linked to the theft of 11 Android mobile phones, all of which were recovered by the police.

The command said Adamu also confessed to the alleged offence and would be charged to court after investigations are concluded.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Tijjani Murtala, commended the officers involved for their professionalism, vigilance and dedication.

He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to the police to help prevent and combat crime across the state.

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