News
House Orders JAMB to Remit N3.6 Billion to Federal Government in 30 Days
The House of Representatives has directed the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to remit a sum of N3.602 billion to the Federal Government’s Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF).
This order was issued during an investigative hearing held in Abuja, led by Rep. Bamidele Salam, Chairman of the House Public Accounts Committee.
Salam clarified that this remittance is not open to any personal interpretation, but rather a clear-cut legal obligation.
He noted that the issue at hand had nothing to do with the difference between a 25 percent or 50 percent revenue remittance, as was being argued by JAMB.
Rather, it was a matter of adhering to established laws and financial regulations governing public institutions.
The committee, in a unanimous decision, instructed JAMB to remit the outstanding N3.602 billion to the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) and provide documented proof of the remittance within a 30-day window.
This decision comes after the FRC brought JAMB before the committee, alleging that the board had failed to remit its operating surplus in full.
Mr. Bello Aliyu, a representative of the FRC, provided insight into the financial discrepancies.
He explained that as of 2021, based on the report submitted to the committee, JAMB’s liabilities stood at N390.725 million.
However, after receiving JAMB’s 2022 audited financial statement, the FRC recalculated the liabilities, which have since increased to N3.602 billion.
Aliyu mentioned that the FRC had formally notified JAMB about the updated liability through a letter dated March 14, followed by a reminder issued on August 31.
Despite these correspondences, he disclosed that the FRC had not received any response from JAMB regarding the matter.
Addressing these allegations, JAMB’s Director of Finance and Administration, Mr. Mufutau Bello, responded by shedding light on the board’s perspective.
According to Bello, the crux of the issue lies in the difference in remittance figures.
He explained that the FRC had been pushing for JAMB to remit 50 percent of its revenue to the government, while the board had been consistently remitting 25 percent, as per a concession granted by the Office of the Accountant-General.
Bello pointed out that in 2019, JAMB’s dedication to revenue remittance led the Federal Government to reduce the cost of its registration fee from N5,000 to N3,500, a move that was designed to benefit all Nigerians.
He emphasized that JAMB had not increased any of its charges over the last eight years, and had in fact reduced them, leading to a decrease in its revenue base.
“We have consistently followed the 25 percent remittance policy year after year, and this has been done in line with our role in the education sector,” Bello stated.
He argued that, based on the 25 percent remittance rate, JAMB has actually over-remitted its surplus over the years.
The board has always operated under the assumption that the 25 percent rate, as approved by the Accountant-General, was the correct standard to follow.
However, the FRC is now pushing for JAMB to remit 50 percent of its revenue, a significant increase from the previous rate.
This, according to Bello, is the core of the disagreement between the two agencies.
Bello further stressed that if the committee were to assess JAMB’s remittance based on the 25 percent rate, the board has been more than compliant and has fulfilled its financial obligations.
“We’ve done our part in supporting the government’s efforts by keeping our fees low while adhering to the 25 percent rule,” he said.
The hearing concluded with the committee reaffirming its directive for JAMB to remit the N3.602 billion as calculated by the FRC and to provide evidence of the payment within 30 days.
This ongoing investigation highlights the complexities of revenue remittance among government agencies and the need for clarity in financial regulations.
News
22 Miners Feared Dead in Taraba-Adamawa Mining Pit Collapse
At least 22 miners are feared dead after a mining pit collapsed at an illegal site in the Gashaka-Gumti National Park, which spans Gashaka LGA in Taraba State and Toungo LGA in Adamawa State. The miners were searching for gold in a restricted area known as Buffa.
Local sources report that all 22 miners are presumed dead. Toungo LGA Chairman Suleiman Toungo confirmed five bodies have been recovered, though he couldn’t specify the total number still buried. The area, despite frequent ranger patrols, is known for continued unregulated mining activities, often carried out at night.
Adamawa Police spokesperson SP Suleiman Nguroje noted recent fatalities from pit collapses, adding that police are working with park authorities to address the illegal mining.
News
Biden Urges Americans to Unite and Move Forward After 2024 Election Results
In a statement following the 2024 Presidential Election, President Joe Biden and former First Lady Michelle Obama addressed the American people, acknowledging the outcome of the election and offering their congratulations to President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance.
The two leaders expressed their respect for the democratic process and emphasized the importance of accepting the peaceful transfer of power, even when the results are not what one hoped for.
Biden reiterated that democracy is about more than winning elections; it’s about respecting the will of the people and maintaining the core values that have long been the foundation of the United States.
Biden also took a moment to express his pride in Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, both of whom ran on the Democratic ticket.
He lauded them as “extraordinary public servants” who conducted a “remarkable campaign.”
Harris, who made history as the first woman and first woman of color to serve as vice president, continues to be a powerful figure in American politics.
Walz, a former teacher and veteran, has led Minnesota with a focus on education and healthcare reform.
The statement defined the challenges that the country has faced in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic strains that followed.
Biden pointed out the rising prices, many of which were a result of the pandemic, and the frustration felt by many Americans who have worked hard but continue to struggle with basic living costs.
These hardships, he noted, have created significant headwinds for Democratic leaders, not just in the United States but globally.
However, Biden offered a hopeful message, suggesting that the problems facing America are solvable.
He urged the country to listen to one another and return to the foundational principles of the Constitution and democratic norms that have helped build the nation.
He called for a focus on unity, emphasizing that while Americans may not always agree on everything, the path forward requires good faith and understanding, even in the face of deep disagreement.
In closing, Biden reflected on the journey of progress, reminding Americans that building a fairer, more just society is an ongoing effort.
Despite the setback of the election, they reiterated their commitment to working for a more equal, free, and prosperous country.
Both leaders expressed their gratitude to the staff and volunteers who supported their campaign, acknowledging the hard work of those who believe in public service and the values they fought for.
News
Atiku Applauds Donald Trump’s Victory And Calls It a Testament to Democracy
Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria and a prominent opposition figure, shared his thoughts on social media following the announcement of President Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election.
Atiku, posting on his X handle, expressed admiration and respect for the American democratic process, describing it as a powerful example of resilience and faith in democracy.
Reflecting on Trump’s win, Atiku hailed it as a significant achievement for the Republican Party, emphasizing that it marks a momentous comeback for Trump himself.
The former Vice President described Trump’s journey as one filled with setbacks and hard-fought battles, showcasing his resilience and determination.
According to Atiku, this victory is not just a personal milestone for Trump but also a symbol of democracy’s strength and capacity for renewal.
Trump, who has faced considerable political challenges over the years, has managed to keep his support base strong, appealing to Americans who feel that he represents a voice for change and a return to conservative values.
His victory, Atiku stated, demonstrates the power of the people and the spirit of American democracy.
Atiku also pointed out that Trump’s win serves as a lesson for democracies worldwide, especially in countries like Nigeria, where calls for credible elections remain critical.
He encouraged Nigerians to reflect on the integrity of the American electoral process and urged leaders in his own country to work towards strengthening their democratic institutions.
For Atiku, Trump’s success is more than a political story; it’s a reminder that fair elections are fundamental to any functioning democracy.
He expressed his hope that Trump, during his administration, would advocate for electoral transparency and free elections, not just within the U.S. but globally, including in Nigeria.
In his post, Atiku extended congratulations to the American people, applauding their unwavering commitment to the democratic process.
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