Senate President Godswill Akpabio has defended President Bola Tinubu’s tax reforms, calling on critics to engage with the initiatives more thoughtfully.

Speaking during Tinubu’s presentation of the 2025 budget, Akpabio praised the four tax reform bills as a monumental step toward revitalizing Nigeria’s economy.

He described the reforms as the first comprehensive tax overhaul since independence, aimed at boosting revenue, supporting small businesses, and fostering sustainable development.

Akpabio criticized detractors for dismissing the reforms without understanding their potential impact and urged all Nigerians to embrace this transformative opportunity.

17-Year-Old OOU Student Arrested for Allegedly Stealing and Attempting to Sell Phones

A 17-year-old student of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Sobando Semilore, has been arrested by the Ago-Iwoye police for allegedly stealing two high-end smartphones and attempting to sell them.

According to a statement released by the Ago-Iwoye police division, Semilore, a first-year Political Science student residing in Danmark Hall, was caught on December 17, 2024. He was allegedly in possession of a Samsung S21 valued at ₦350,000 and an iPhone 14 Pro Max worth ₦650,000, both belonging to Muktapha Adenugba.

The statement revealed that the suspect was apprehended around 5:00 PM while trying to sell the stolen phones at Pepsi Junction in Ago-Iwoye. During interrogation, he reportedly admitted to stealing the devices from a poolside at Gardeen, a well-known relaxation spot.

The police confirmed that the stolen phones have been recovered and returned to their rightful owner. Investigations into the case are ongoing, with further updates expected.

This incident has sparked conversations about crime among students, with many emphasizing the need for vigilance and better security measures in social spaces.

Dauda Lawal, the Governor of Zamfara State, has given a strong commitment to ensuring a secure and supportive environment for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members stationed in the state.

In a statement made on Tuesday, at the conclusion of the three-week Batch C Stream One orientation course held at the temporary orientation camp in Gusau.

Also, Governor Lawal emphasized his administration’s dedication to the welfare and safety of the corps members.

The Governor, who was represented by Tasi’u Musa Shinkafi, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, reassured the corps members that they would be provided with the necessary security and resources to carry out their duties effectively.

Additionally, he mentioned that his government was fully committed to offering a conducive environment where the corps members could work and grow.

Governor Lawal encouraged the young graduates to approach their service with the utmost dedication, hard work, and commitment.

In his remarks, Muhammad Auwal Lawal, the NYSC State Coordinator, praised the efforts of the Zamfara State government for its proactive approach in making the necessary arrangements to ensure the wellbeing of the corps members.

He acknowledged the government’s role in providing the essential infrastructure and support systems for the success of the orientation program and the service year at large.

Lawal also urged the corps members to stay focused on their mission and maintain a sense of responsibility throughout their service year.

He advised them to avoid distractions such as late-night parties and unnecessary travel, as they could jeopardize their health and safety.