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FG warns against selling force-ripened fruits, adulterated food items

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FG warns against selling force-ripened fruits, adulterated food items

The Federal Government has warned fruit vendors against selling force-ripened fruits, threatening that those involved will face serious sanctions.

Executive Vice-Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr. Olatunji Bello, issued the warning on Tuesday in Gombe State during a one-day sensitisation programme on the dangers of forced ripening of fruits, adulterated palm oil, contaminated meat, and grains.

Mr. Bello, represented by the Director of Quality Assurance and Development, Dr. Nkechi Mba, said the act of force-ripening fruits poses a major threat to public health. He stated that the commission would enforce strict compliance with food-safety standards, collaborate with agencies such as NAFDAC, SON, and other regulators, and prosecute offenders involved in harmful food practices.

He also warned sellers of adulterated palm oil, contaminated meat, and grains, urging farmers, processors, vendors, and traders to shun the use of harmful chemicals, maintain proper hygiene, label their products correctly, and respect consumer rights.

“Respect consumer rights and refrain from deceptive or unfair business practices. Let it be known that any operator who places profit over public safety will face the full wrath of the law,” he stated.

The FCCPC chief explained that the commission has a statutory responsibility to protect and promote the interests and welfare of consumers while ensuring fair competition across markets. He added that food safety, consumer protection, and quality standards remain essential to the nation’s health and economy.

“The issues of food quality standards, safety, and fair business practices are more pressing than ever, but we continue to witness alarming trends like the forceful ripening of fruits using harmful chemicals such as calcium carbide, which contains trace amounts of arsenic and phosphorus, both of which are highly toxic to humans,” he said.

He further identified the adulteration of food products with dangerous additives and preservatives such as bromate, Sudan red colorant, sniper, and formalin as major hazards that endanger human health.

According to him, the sensitisation event was organised to inform, educate, and empower both consumers and industry stakeholders, fostering greater awareness about proper food handling, accurate labelling, regulatory compliance, and ethical business conduct in the marketplace.

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39,000 Katsina MSMEs get N2.5bn FG grants

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39,000 Katsina MSMEs get N2.5bn FG grants

Over 39,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Katsina State have received grants worth N2.5 billion from the Federal Government to boost and sustain their businesses.

Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed this on Tuesday during the ninth Expanded National MSME Clinics held in Katsina. He said the 39,000 MSMEs benefited from different government interventions aimed at reviving small businesses and creating jobs across the country.

According to Shettima, the Federal Government has launched several support initiatives, including the N75 billion MSME intervention fund managed by the Bank of Industry (BoI). The fund provides up to N5 million in loans to 75,000 MSMEs across Nigeria at a nine percent annual interest rate.

He further stated that the Tinubu-led administration has rolled out a N50 billion Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme targeted at supporting one million nano-businesses across the 774 local government areas of the country. Each beneficiary is to receive N50,000 under the scheme.

Shettima said: “Likewise, under the N75 billion Manufacturers Fund, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is providing critical financial support to health businesses in the manufacturing sector, pushing the high costs of production, marketing and distribution. Eligible businesses can access up to N1 billion in loans at a nine per cent interest rate. And I am pleased to note that so far, over 39,000 MSMEs in Katsina State have benefited from these interventions, receiving a total of about N2.5 billion. I am also pleased to announce that His Excellency, President Bola, has approved an unconditional grant of N250,000 for each outstanding MSME exhibiting at today’s clinic. This is a non-repayable grant.”

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, in his remarks, announced a six-month post-event mentorship programme for all entrepreneurs who participated in the ninth expanded national MSME Clinics.

He revealed that the Katsina State Government had created a N5.5 billion MSME fund, with over N1 billion already disbursed to 701 businesses, positioning the state as a leading model for enterprise development in northern Nigeria.

Radda said: “This clinic will stand out from all others. I have directed KASEDA to work with SMEDAN, BoI, NITDA, NEPC, SON, FIRS and CAC to provide post-event support to every registered participant. The clinic does not end today.”

He added that over 100,000 beneficiaries across the 34 local government areas of the state have received support through KASEDA since 2023.

NCF trains 200 Yobe farmers on sustainable agroforestry

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NCF trains 200 Yobe farmers on sustainable agroforestry

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has concluded a two-day training for 200 farmers and youths from 10 communities in Maja-kura, Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State on sustainable agroforestry practices.

The initiative, which ended on Tuesday, was funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global Environment Facility–Small Grants Programme (GEF–SGP) Nigeria, and executed by the Action for Community Foundation (ACF).

Speaking at the closing session, Harry Hanson, the project representative, said the training focused on tree nursery establishment, soil conservation, and sustainable agroforestry techniques to help farmers adopt climate-resilient practices. He explained that the project also included the distribution of tree nursery tools and indigenous seeds to support the creation of 10 community nurseries that are expected to raise over 10,000 indigenous seedlings for planting in 2026.

“The intervention seeks to empower Maja-kura farmers and youths to improve crop yield, income generation, and environmental restoration through sustainable agroforestry,” Mr Hanson said.

He added that specialists, including an entomologist, soil scientist, and agroforestry expert, were engaged to train participants on pest management, soil identification and management, and tree nursery operations.

Items distributed to the 10 beneficiary communities included 10 wheelbarrows, 20 shovels, 20 hand trowels, 20 head pans, 20 watering cans, and 50 bags of manure weighing 100kg each. Other materials were 20kg of neem seeds, 20kg of acacia sayel seeds, 20kg of Parkia biglobosa seeds, and 10,000 polybags.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the ward head of Maja-kura community, Lawan Abdu, commended NCF, UNDP/GEF–SGP Nigeria, and ACF for what he described as a timely initiative to improve agricultural productivity and restore degraded ecosystems. He assured that the communities would use the training and materials to promote sustainable farming and environmental protection.

High-speed fibre internet installed at Anambra NUJ secretariat

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High-speed fibre internet installed at Anambra NUJ secretariat

The Anambra State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has received a major digital boost following the successful installation and activation of high-speed fibre internet at the Godwin Ezeemo NUJ Secretariat in Awka.

The project was facilitated by the Anambra State ICT Agency under the leadership of its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA. The development fulfills a request made during the NUJ Congress held on October 3, 2025, and represents another milestone in the ongoing effort to deepen digital inclusion across Anambra State.

Announcing the achievement, Agbata described the project as “a testament to what can be achieved when purpose meets partnership,” emphasizing that “anytime there is power, journalists at the NUJ Secretariat will enjoy seamless and dependable internet access.” He further stated, “You journalists are the voice of the people, the guardians of truth, and the architects of an informed society. Supporting your work is not just a duty; it is an honour.”

The initiative supports Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s “Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere” vision, aimed at promoting digital access, bridging information gaps, and encouraging inclusion through technology.

Agbata also praised the leadership of Governor Soludo, describing him as a visionary leader whose commitment to digital transformation continues to open new opportunities for development across the state. “Thank you, Mr. Governor, for providing the enabling environment and making the bold decision to waive the Right of Way (RoW) charges, which paved the way for broadband access and digital infrastructure development across Anambra,” he said.

Gov Radda unveils Katsina MSME awards, disburses ₦500m to entrepreneurs

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Gov Radda unveils Katsina MSME awards, disburses ₦500m to entrepreneurs

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting youth empowerment, innovation, and entrepreneurship across the state. He made this known while speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Dikko Social Innovation Academy (DSIA) and the maiden edition of the Katsina MSME Awards and Dinner held at the Government House Banquet Hall last night.

Governor Radda said Katsina remains proud of its rich heritage as a center of knowledge and culture that has shaped Northern Nigeria for generations. During the event, he unveiled the first-ever Katsina MSME Awards, an initiative designed to celebrate excellence and motivate young entrepreneurs to pursue success through creativity and integrity.

“This award is not just about recognition, it is about motivation,” the Governor said. “We want our youth to see that success is possible through creativity, integrity, and hard work.”

In a gesture of encouragement, Governor Radda announced a car gift for the overall best MSME awardee. He also called on private organizations and development partners to support future editions with sponsorships and prizes to sustain the momentum of innovation and enterprise.

The governor further stated, “Two years ago, we took a bold and visionary step by establishing the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), a deliberate initiative to accelerate MSME growth, drive job creation, and promote wealth generation. Today, that decision is yielding visible and inspiring results.”

“Through KASEDA, we have launched the N5bn MSME Development Fund, the first of its kind in the history of our state, with N500m already disbursed to youth and women entrepreneurs across various sectors. We are also strengthening strategic partnerships with the Bank of Industry, Sterling Bank, SMEDAN, and the UNDP, which recently committed N542m to support MSMEs in conflict-affected communities within Katsina State.”

Highlighting his administration’s efforts to strengthen small businesses, Radda mentioned the disbursement of ₦500 million to youth and women entrepreneurs across the state, along with a ₦542 million partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) targeted at supporting MSMEs in conflict-affected areas.

He also spoke on the ongoing MSME Census and Cluster Mapping Project, which aims to improve business planning and coordination. According to him, the creation of the Dikko Business Development Service Corps is another strategic step toward helping entrepreneurs access finance and grow sustainably.

Governor Radda expressed appreciation to Vice President Kashim Shettima, who attended the ceremony, for his unwavering support for MSME development. “Your Excellency, you have shown once again that you are a true champion of MSMEs in Nigeria,” he said.

In a light-hearted remark, the Governor added, “The people of Katsina and our Kanuri brothers and sisters from Maiduguri share a long history of friendship and mutual teasing. We often say, ‘When a Kanuri man promises, he does not just keep the word, he multiplies it.’ Your Excellency, you have once again lived up to that reputation!”

Governor Radda reaffirmed his administration’s continued investment in training, innovation, and access to finance as part of a broader plan to boost productivity across key sectors. “Tonight is about progress, partnership, and purpose. Together, we are making Katsina the home of enterprise and innovation,” he concluded.

Earlier, the Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe, described the event as historic and a reflection of the state government’s vision to empower youth through entrepreneurship. He commended Vice President Shettima for his consistent support under the Renewed Hope Agenda and praised Governor Radda for establishing the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), which birthed the DSIA and other impactful programs.

He said KASEDA has become a model for promoting innovation and sustainable enterprise growth in Northern Nigeria.

In her remarks, the Director-General of KASEDA, Hajiya Aisha Aminu, described the occasion as “a celebration of innovation and impact.” She noted that KASEDA recently marked its second anniversary, achieving significant milestones through the vision and leadership of Governor Radda.

According to her, the DSIA was modeled after Uganda’s SINA network and has successfully trained 18 fellows who developed nine innovation projects in health, climate, and agriculture. “The second cohort currently has 30 fellows, and the third will commence in January 2026,” she said.

Hajiya Aisha further explained that the MSME Awards received over 2,000 entries, from which 21 winners and five special recognition awardees emerged through a transparent selection process conducted by an independent jury.

She thanked Governor Radda and Vice President Shettima for their unwavering support and assured that KASEDA will continue to promote MSME growth, youth empowerment, and social innovation across Katsina State.

The event attracted top dignitaries including the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura; Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abdullahi Garba Faskari; Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arch. Ahmed Dangiwa; and Senator Muntari Dandutse representing Funtua Zone.

Also present were the Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa; former Governors Aminu Bello Masari and Ibrahim Shehu Shema; former Borno State Governor, Col. Abdulmumini Aminu (rtd); and several members of the House of Representatives including Hon. Abdullahi Aliyu Ahmed, Hon. Aminu Balele Kurfi, Hon. Usman Banye, Hon. Sada Soli, and Hon. Salisu Yusuf Majigiri.

Other attendees included the National Coordinator of AUDA-NEPAD, Jabiru Salisu Tsauri; the Director-General of SMEDAN, Dr. Charles Odii; members of the National and State Assemblies; State Executive Council members; representatives of Katsina and Daura Emirates; development partners; industry leaders; and entrepreneurs from across the state.

(News updated)

VP Shettima hails Radda as Dikko social innovation academy graduates fellows

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VP Shettima hails Radda as Dikko social innovation academy graduates fellows

Vice President Kashim Shettima has praised the Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, for his visionary leadership and commitment to promoting innovation, enterprise, and youth empowerment. Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Dikko Social Innovation Academy (DSIA) and the maiden edition of the Katsina MSME Awards and Dinner held at the Government House Banquet Hall, Shettima described Katsina as “a beacon of creativity and resilience in Northern Nigeria.”

The Vice President noted that Katsina is steadily reviving its long-standing legacy of learning, trade, and craftsmanship, adding that the state has always been a centre of knowledge and culture that has shaped Northern Nigeria for generations. “Katsina has always been a hub for scholars, rulers, and traders,” Shettima said, recalling that Sheikh Mohammed Bello wrote Usul Siyasa for the Emir of Katsina long before colonial times as a major guide on governance.

He also referenced the famous Katsina College, later known as Barewa College, which produced some of Nigeria’s finest leaders. According to him, that same creative spirit continues to define the people of Katsina, its artisans, farmers, and young entrepreneurs who keep demonstrating remarkable resilience.

Shettima called for renewed efforts in industrialization by converting local raw materials such as cotton and millet into industries that create jobs and promote inclusive economic growth. He commended Governor Radda for strengthening the state’s MSME ecosystem through the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), describing it as a model that aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Vice President emphasized the importance of unity among political and traditional leaders, stating, “We have no business fighting each other, we must unite to confront insecurity and poverty.” He further commended the people of Katsina for their warmth and hospitality, describing the state as “home, a land of history, unity, and great promise.”

With a light touch of humor, Shettima added, “I am proud of Katsina’s unity and progress, and I must say, the Governor resembles me more than anyone else in this room.”

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, in his remarks, reaffirmed his administration’s focus on enterprise, innovation, and youth empowerment as the foundation of Katsina’s economic transformation. He described the event as “a celebration of innovation, resilience, and progress toward a more prosperous future.”

“When we came into office, we made a deliberate decision to empower people through enterprise and innovation,” the Governor said. “That decision gave birth to KASEDA, which today stands as one of Nigeria’s most vibrant enterprise institutions.”

Radda commended the Director-General of KASEDA, Hajiya Aisha Aminu, for her outstanding leadership and described her as “one of the brightest examples of female public service in Nigeria today.” He explained that under her leadership, KASEDA developed a comprehensive five-year strategic plan that aligns with the state’s economic blueprint.

The Governor highlighted the Dikko Social Innovation Academy (DSIA) as one of Katsina’s most impactful projects, designed to equip young people from underserved communities with the practical skills needed to design and implement solutions to local challenges. He said the academy’s concept was inspired by a visit to Uganda, where three young people from Katsina studied the globally recognized Social Innovation Academy model.

“Today, I am proud to witness the graduation of our first cohort of 18 fellows who have completed six months of intensive training in social entrepreneurship, design thinking, and problem-solving,” Radda announced.

He expressed pride in the graduates, noting their growth throughout the programme. “Many began the programme with little confidence but are now leaving as innovators and community leaders,” he said. The Governor assured that future cohorts of the programme would be expanded to accommodate more participants.

Radda encouraged the Vice President to consider adopting the DSIA model nationally, describing it as “a powerful and scalable approach to youth empowerment.” He urged the graduating fellows to continue striving for excellence, saying, “To our graduating fellows, congratulations. You are the pioneers of a new generation of changemakers. Success may not come easily, but with discipline, hard work, and faith, you will go far. The state will continue to support you.”

The event brought together top government officials, business leaders, and policymakers. Notable dignitaries included the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura; the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abdullahi Garba Faskari; the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arch. Ahmed Dangiwa; Senator Muntari Dandutse representing Funtua Zone; and the Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa.

Others in attendance were former Governors Aminu Bello Masari and Ibrahim Shehu Shema; former Borno State Governor, Col. Abdulmumini Aminu (rtd); Members of the House of Representatives including Hon. Abdullahi Aliyu Ahmed (Musawa/Matazu), Hon. Aminu Balele Kurfi (Dutsinma/Kurfi), Hon. Usman Banye (Batagarawa/Charanchi/Rimi), Hon. Sada Soli (Kaita/Jibia), and Hon. Salisu Yusuf Majigiri (Mashi/Dutsi).

Also present were the National Coordinator of AUDA-NEPAD, Jabiru Salisu Tsauri; the National Director-General of SMEDAN, Dr. Charles Odii; Members of the National and State Assemblies; members of the State Executive Council; representatives of the Katsina and Daura Emirates; representatives of development partners; heads of MDAs; captains of industry; and entrepreneurs from across the state.

NELFUND opens student loan application portal for 2025/2026 session

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NELFUND opens student loan application portal for 2025/2026 session

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has officially opened the student loan application portal for the 2025/2026 academic session. According to the announcement, the application window will run from Thursday, October 23, 2025, to Saturday, January 31, 2026.

NELFUND expressed appreciation to all tertiary institutions nationwide for their continued cooperation and called for further collaboration to ensure a smooth and inclusive loan process for all eligible students. The agency urged institutions to update and upload verified records of both returning and newly admitted students on the NELFUND Student Verification Portal, describing it as a crucial step for students to successfully apply and benefit from the student loan scheme.

To ensure a seamless rollout, NELFUND outlined key details for institutions. The portal will open on Thursday, October 23, 2025, and close on Saturday, January 31, 2026. Eligible students include both returning and newly admitted students of accredited tertiary institutions. Fresh students may apply using either their Admission Number or JAMB Registration Number in place of a Matric Number.

Institutions are also encouraged to show understanding in enforcing registration and fee payment deadlines for students awaiting loan disbursement. A special notice was also issued to institutions that have not yet commenced their 2025/2026 academic session, advising them to formally write to NELFUND with their approved academic calendar for scheduling flexibility.

“Institutions are advised to consider temporary registration measures for students whose loan applications are being processed to ensure that no student loses access to education due to financial constraints,” NELFUND stated.

Previously, nigeriastartupact.ng reported that all accredited tertiary institutions across the country have been urged to update their existing student records and upload details of both returning and newly admitted students on the NELFUND Student Verification Portal ahead of the official opening for the 2025/2026 academic session.

Nigeria, GIZ partner to boost climate resilient livestock systems

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Nigeria, GIZ partner to boost climate resilient livestock systems

The Technical Working Group on Climate Change (TWG-CC) of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the GIZ Transformation of Agri-Food Systems (TAFS) Cluster have reached an agreement on a joint action framework aimed at advancing sustainable and climate-resilient livestock systems in Nigeria.

The agreement was finalized during an alignment workshop held on Monday, 20th October 2025, under the Livestock for Sustainable Systems (LIFESYS) project. The session produced a shared framework to harmonise the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy (NLGAS) with LIFESYS objectives, ensuring that the Ministry’s programmes reflect sustainability, climate resilience, and global best practices.

Speaking during the session, the Director, Sanitary Mandate and Climate Change, Dr. Ishiyaku Mohammed Musa, stated that the workshop was organised to align the Ministry’s strategic pillars with the sustainability goals of the LIFESYS project. “This workshop provides an opportunity to co-create interventions that reinforce our national strategic plan. The aim is to ensure that, moving forward, we remain on track and fully aligned with both national and global sustainability goals,” Dr. Musa said.

GIZ’s Cluster Coordinator, Dr. Andrea Ruediger, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s drive toward climate-smart livestock systems. She highlighted that GIZ would continue providing technical collaboration, regional knowledge exchange, and access to international climate finance, especially through the Green Climate Fund (GCF).

The meeting also outlined priority areas for partnership, including policy alignment, development of climate finance proposals, and capacity-building programmes to strengthen the livestock sector’s climate resilience.

Dangote cement opens application for 2025 management trainee programme

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Dangote cement opens application for 2025 management trainee programme

Dangote Cement has announced the opening of applications for its 2025 Management Trainee Programme, a competitive 18-month initiative designed to prepare high-potential professionals for leadership roles across its business operations.

According to the company, the programme offers “a structured journey that combines classroom learning, executive mentorship, and hands-on projects aimed at developing future senior leaders.” Participants will undergo a one-month classroom immersion covering business strategy, economic analysis, cement industry fundamentals, and leadership.

The trainees will also rotate across Operations, Commercial, and Corporate functions, participate in site visits, and take on extended assignments at major plants and depots for practical experience. In addition, they will work on high-impact projects that address key business priorities and attend leadership labs focused on personal mastery, team leadership, and enterprise leadership.

The Dangote Cement Management Trainee Programme offers benefits such as training and development opportunities, private health insurance, a pension plan, and paid time off. The company described the initiative as “a prestigious programme that combines the rigor of an MBA with the practical immersion of a business rotation scheme.”

To be eligible, applicants must be between 28 and 35 years old, legally eligible to work in Nigeria, and must have completed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Candidates should have between five and ten years of relevant work experience and hold at least a Bachelor’s Degree or Higher National Diploma for technical roles. Strong analytical and quantitative skills, leadership potential, resilience, and adaptability are also required.

Applications can be submitted via cutt.ly/DangoteCementMTP, with the deadline set for November 3, 2025. Dangote Cement emphasized that the programme is designed to create a pipeline of resilient and enterprise-minded leaders ready to shape the company’s future.

FG inaugurate consultants for revenue recovery exercise

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FG inaugurate consultants for revenue recovery exercise

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, on Monday, 20th October 2025, hosted the Special Adviser to the President on Revenue Matters and Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, at the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja for the formal inauguration of the engaged consultants for the Revenue Recovery Exercise.

Speaking during the event, Dr. Shehu reaffirmed the Commission’s determination to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal governance and ensure that all revenues due to the Federation are fully accounted for and remitted into the Federation Account. According to him, “This exercise is not a routine administrative action but a deliberate, result-oriented innovation designed to strengthen fiscal governance and ensure every recoverable naira due to the Federation is transparently remitted.”

He explained that the engagement of consultants was a strategic initiative aimed at plugging revenue leakages, enhancing transparency, and boosting the fiscal capacity of the three tiers of government, in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. The RMAFC Chairman also noted that this initiative will play a key role in driving accountability, promoting fiscal reforms, and strengthening inter-agency coordination for sustainable economic growth.

Dr. Shehu further stated, “In line with the constitutional responsibility of the Commission, and with the full support of Mr. President and the Special Adviser to the President on Revenue, as well as the Executive Chairman of the FIRS, this initiative for spatial recovery projects to identify and recover unremitted revenues across sectors of the economy was brought into light.”

Representing the FIRS Chairman, the Coordinating Director of FIRS, Mr. Shettima Tamadi, inaugurated the consultants and commended the leadership of the RMAFC Chairman for his proactive approach to improving revenue generation. He reaffirmed the commitment of FIRS to effective collaboration with the Commission in achieving the objectives of the recovery programme. Tamadi stated, “Nigeria has a huge revenue gap, but with stronger collaboration between agencies and partners, we can bridge that gap and achieve sustainable fiscal growth.”

The Secretary to the Commission, Mr. Joseph Nwaeze Okechukwu, in his address, appreciated all stakeholders for their support and urged the consultants to work diligently to complete the assignment within the stipulated six-month timeframe. He emphasised that the consultants must ensure that all identified recoverable revenues are promptly returned to the Federation Account to support national development priorities.

Delivering his acceptance speech on behalf of the consultants, the lead consultant, Mr. Temitayo Ojeleke, described the engagement as a national call to duty and assured the Commission and FIRS of their commitment to professionalism, transparency, and measurable results. He said, “We accept this assignment as partners in Nigeria’s economic renewal, ready to deliver results that will strengthen the nation’s revenue base.”

The inauguration marks a significant milestone in RMAFC’s ongoing efforts to enhance inter-agency collaboration, improve accountability, and maximise revenue generation for the collective benefit of the Federation.

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