Reporting by Daily Post indicates that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has made an urgent appeal to the Federal Government for modern firefighting equipment, including air support, following a second devastating fire at the Singer Market. The Governor, who visited the scene while the fire was still active, stressed that the state’s current fire service capacity is insufficient to protect its vast commercial hubs.
The latest inferno, which razed the Gidan Gilas section of the market, occurred less than two weeks after a similar incident in the same area. The Governor commended the courage of the local fire service but noted that without specialized tools like firefighting helicopters, containing blazes in densely packed markets remains nearly impossible.
Governor Yusuf also called for a thorough investigation into the recurring nature of the fires to determine if they are accidental or the result of sabotage. The state government has pledged to support affected traders, though the scale of the losses is estimated to be in the billions of Naira.
Channels TV verified the Governor’s visit, reporting that the fire caused significant panic in the Kano metropolis. A trader quoted in The Punch lamented, “I have lost everything for the second time this month; we need more than just sympathy from the government.” Premium Times also covered the story, quoting an emergency responder: “The narrow access roads made it extremely difficult for our trucks to reach the heart of the fire.”
Echotitbits take: The recurring fires in Kano’s markets are a major threat to Northern Nigeria’s largest economy. Beyond equipment, the state needs a radical redesign of market layouts to allow for emergency access. Watch for a possible federal intervention involving the Air Force’s disaster response unit.
Source: Vanguard- https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/gov-yusuf-seeks-fgs-intervention-in-singer-market-fire/amp/, and February 15, 2026
Photo credit: Vanguard
Category: News
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Kano Governor Seeks Federal Air Support Following Massive Market Inferno
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Peter Obi Warns of Educational Inequality Over Mandatory CBT Policy
According to The Guardian, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has voiced strong opposition to the compulsory adoption of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) for all secondary schools. Obi warned that enforcing a digital-only format without providing the necessary ICT infrastructure would disenfranchise students in rural and underserved communities, further widening the educational gap in Nigeria.
Speaking at a school event in Anambra, Obi argued that while digitalization is necessary, it must be preceded by a massive investment in school laboratories and reliable electricity. He cautioned that many schools currently lack the basic facilities to register candidates under the new CBT guidelines, which could lead to a massive drop in examination enrollment.
In response to these concerns, some philanthropists have begun donating ICT centers to schools to help them meet the new requirements. However, Obi insists that private intervention alone cannot bridge a gap created by systemic government neglect.
ThisDay reported that several civil society groups have joined Obi in calling for a phased implementation of the policy. A school principal quoted in The Nation stated, “We cannot test children on computers they have never touched in a classroom.” Meanwhile, Daily Post quoted an education official who argued, “The transition to CBT is inevitable if we are to eliminate examination malpractice, but the timeline must be realistic.”
Echotitbits take: Obi is tapping into a very real anxiety among parents and educators. While CBT reduces cheating, the “digital divide” is a legitimate threat to national literacy rates. Expect this to become a major talking point in the upcoming education reform debates.
Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/peter-obi-criticises-jamb-over-unjust-clampdown-on-cbt-centres-in-anambra/, and February 15, 2026
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Army Chief Pledges Final Blow to Insurgency Amid Renewed Offensive
In an update published by Vanguard, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has vowed to take decisive action against the remnants of terrorist groups and insurgents operating within the country. Speaking at the West African Social Activities (WASA) event in Abuja, the COAS stated that the Nigerian Army is entering a new phase of high-intensity operations designed to permanently secure troubled regions.
The Army Chief emphasized that troop welfare remains a top priority, as motivated soldiers are essential for the success of “Operation Desert Sanity V” and other ongoing missions. He noted that the military has seen significant gains in the North-East and North-West, with scores of terrorists recently neutralized and large caches of weapons recovered.
Despite these successes, the COAS urged the public to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies. He reiterated that the military’s goal is to create a peaceful environment conducive to economic development and social stability.
The Punch confirmed these reports, adding that recent operations in the North-East led to the recovery of sophisticated anti-aircraft guns. Daily Post reported on the killing of several Boko Haram commanders, quoting a military spokesperson: “We are squeezing the operational space of the terrorists until they have nowhere left to hide.” Leadership also highlighted the COAS’s remarks, with a security analyst stating, “The focus on troop welfare is a critical shift that will likely improve battlefield performance in the coming months.”
Echotitbits take: The rhetoric from the COAS is strong, but the persistence of abductions in the Middle Belt remains a thorn in the side of the military. Watch for a possible shift toward more aerial-led operations Reuters – https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/nigerias-army-chief-vows-crush-insurgents-amid-us-pressure-over-religious-2025-11-07/, and February 15, 2026
Photo credit: Reuters -
Nigeria Expands Food Security Drive with Largest Global Biofortified Crop Portfolio
Reporting by Premium Times indicates that the Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to nutrition security by aggressively expanding the cultivation of biofortified crops. The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Marcus Ogunbiyi, revealed that Nigeria now holds the largest portfolio of these crops globally. This strategy aims to combat “hidden hunger” by providing essential vitamins and minerals through staple foods like cassava, maize, and sweet potatoes.
The announcement was made during a national workshop in Kano, where officials highlighted the role of biofortification in reducing malnutrition-related illnesses. By integrating these crops into the national food system, the government hopes to improve the health of millions of Nigerians, particularly children and pregnant women in rural areas.
Stakeholders at the event emphasized the need for better seed distribution networks to ensure that smallholder farmers can access these improved varieties. The government is partnering with international agricultural organizations to provide technical support and scale up production across the six geopolitical zones.
Vanguard verified the initiative, reporting that the government is also linking biofortified crop production to the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme. A nutrition specialist quoted in The Guardian said, “Biofortification is a cost-effective way to deliver micronutrients to the most vulnerable populations.” Daily Trust also covered the workshop, quoting a farmer who stated, “These new varieties are not just healthy; they are yielding better than our traditional seeds.”
Echotitbits take: This is a major win for Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Beyond health, this move positions Nigeria as a leader in African agritech. The next challenge will be ensuring these crops reach the market at competitive prices to displace less nutritious alternatives.
Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/agriculture/agric-news/856749-nigerian-govt-commits-to-adoption-of-biofortified-crops.html, and February 15, 2026
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Presidency Rebuts Allegations of Looming 25% Post-Election Tax Hike
In an update published by Daily Post, the Nigerian Presidency has dismissed claims made by former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi regarding a purported plan to implement a 25% tax increase following the next general election. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga labeled the allegations as “egregious lies” intended to incite public fear and create political instability. The government insists there are no such provisions in the current or proposed tax laws.
The controversy erupted after a viral video showed the former minister warning citizens that an APC victory would lead to a significant tax burden on business transactions and rent. Amaechi had suggested that the government was delaying the implementation of these taxes to avoid voter backlash, urging the public to verify the “new tax law” with legal experts.
In its rebuttal, the Presidency clarified that the ongoing tax reforms are focused on simplification and efficiency rather than arbitrary increases. The administration reiterated its commitment to creating a business-friendly environment and cautioned political actors against spreading misinformation that could disrupt the economy.
The Nation corroborated the Presidency’s stance, noting that the Federal Ministry of Finance has no such 25% levy in its 2026 projections. A legal expert quoted in ThisDay stated, “There is no legislative record of a post-dated tax law of this magnitude; such claims appear to be purely speculative.” Additionally, Channels TV reported that the viral video has sparked intense debate on social media, with one analyst noting, “Political rhetoric regarding taxation must be grounded in documented policy to avoid unnecessary market panic.”
Echotitbits take: This exchange highlights the heightening political tension as the 2027 election cycle begins to loom. Expect taxation to remain a central, albeit contentious, campaign issue as both sides scramble to define the economic narrative.
Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/presidency-rebuts-kpmgs-claims-on-new-tax-laws-defends-reform-choices-2/, and February 15, 2026
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Capital Gains Tax Collections Hit Historic ₦522 Billion Milestone
Figures cited by The Punch reveal that Nigeria’s Capital Gains Tax (CGT) revenue reached an unprecedented ₦522 billion in the 2025 fiscal year. This surge represents a significant leap in non-oil tax revenue, reflecting the government’s aggressive drive to expand the tax base and improve compliance across the financial and real estate sectors. The record-breaking figure is being hailed by fiscal authorities as a sign of deepening economic formalization.
The growth is largely attributed to the recovery of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) and a flurry of high-value property transactions in major urban centers like Lagos and Abuja. Additionally, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has implemented more robust digital tracking mechanisms to ensure that gains from the disposal of assets are accurately captured and taxed.
Despite the impressive numbers, some economic analysts express concern that the increased tax burden could deter long-term investment. However, government officials maintain that the revenue is essential for funding critical infrastructure projects and reducing the national budget deficit.
Validating these figures, Leadership reported that the FIRS is looking to further automate the CGT collection process in 2026. A tax consultant quoted in Vanguard remarked, “The ₦522 billion mark shows that the government is finally looking beyond traditional sectors for revenue.” Furthermore, Daily Post cited a government spokesperson who noted, “This milestone is a testament to the effectiveness of recent fiscal reforms aimed at achieving a sustainable debt-to-revenue ratio.”
Echotitbits take: This revenue spike is a double-edged sword. While it helps the government’s liquidity, it may cool down the heated real estate market. Watch for potential pushback from the private sector as the FIRS looks to tighten the net on digital asset gains next.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/capital-gains-tax-jumps-429-to-n12-18bn/, and February 15, 2026
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Nigeria Endorses Comprehensive African Union Peace and Security Reforms
According to reporting by Premium Times, the Federal Government of Nigeria has formally backed a series of institutional reforms within the African Union (AU) aimed at strengthening governance in the areas of peace and security. Vice President Kashim Shettima articulated the nation’s stance during a high-level closed session at the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa. The endorsement reflects Nigeria’s strategic interest in ensuring the AU is better equipped to handle the continent’s evolving security challenges.
The move comes at a time when the continent is grappling with various insurgencies and constitutional crises. Nigeria’s leadership at the summit emphasized that a more streamlined AU governance structure is essential for swift conflict resolution and the maintenance of regional stability. By supporting these reforms, Nigeria seeks to bolster the AU’s mandate to intervene more effectively in troubled regions across Africa.
Further details indicate that the reforms are expected to reorganize the AU Commission to ensure better accountability and resource allocation. This shift is seen as a pivotal step in moving the continental body from a reactive stance to a more proactive role in peacekeeping operations.
The Punch Newspapers confirmed the development, noting that Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye has officially taken over as the 2026 AU Chairman. Additionally, The Nation reported on the summit’s proceedings, quoting a senior diplomat who stated, “Nigeria’s backing provides the necessary political weight to move these security structural changes from paper to practice.” Meanwhile, a source in The Guardian highlighted the regional consensus, quoting an AU official: “The commitment shown by member states like Nigeria is a clear signal that Africa is ready to take full ownership of its security architecture.”
Echotitbits take: Nigeria’s endorsement is a calculated diplomatic move to maintain its influence as a continental powerhouse. As regional threats like the Sahelian crisis persist, these AU reforms are critical. Watch for how these structural changes affect the funding of the African Standby Force in the coming months.
Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/856758-nigeria-backs-aus-institutional-reforms-on-peace-security.html, and February 15, 2026
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Argungu International Fishing Festival Kicks Off in Kebbi State
Reporting by Channels TV on February 14, 2026, indicates that the historic Argungu International Fishing Festival has officially commenced in Kebbi State. The festival, which had seen intermittent pauses in previous years due to security and logistics, returned with a grand opening ceremony attended by traditional rulers and international tourists.
The event features various cultural competitions, including the famous grand fishing contest where thousands of fishermen dive into the Matan Fada River to catch the largest fish using traditional nets. The Governor of Kebbi State, during the opening, highlighted the festival’s role in promoting peace, unity, and the state’s potential as a premier destination for cultural tourism in West Africa.
Further validation from Vanguard and Daily Trust showcases the economic impact on the region. Vanguard noted that “hotels in Argungu and Birnin Kebbi are fully booked for the four-day event,” while Daily Trust quoted a festival organizer: “This year’s edition is the largest in a decade, showcasing the best of Kebbi’s hospitality and heritage.”
Echotitbits take: Beyond the cultural spectacle, the Argungu festival is a major boost for the local economy and a sign of improved security in the Northwest. The success of this event could encourage the return of other dormant cultural festivals across Nigeria.
Source: Channels TV – https://www.channelstv.com/2026/02/12/photos-argungu-international-fishing-festival-kicks-off-in-kebbi/, February 14, 2026
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UK to Replace All Physical Visas with eVisas by February 25
In an update published by The Nation on February 14, 2026, the United Kingdom government has issued a final reminder to Nigerian residents and other foreign nationals that all physical immigration documents will be phased out by February 25, 2026. The transition to a fully digital eVisa system is part of a broader UK Home Office strategy to modernize border control and reduce document fraud.
The change affects Nigerians holding Biometric Residence Permits (BRP), Biometric Residence Cards (BRC), or passport endorsements like ink stamps and vignette stickers. Affected persons are required to create a UKVI account to access their digital status. Failure to do so before the deadline could lead to significant travel delays or issues proving the right to work and rent in the UK.
Validating coverage from Channels TV and Daily Post emphasizes the urgency for the Nigerian diaspora. Channels TV reported that “thousands of Nigerians are yet to complete their digital transition,” while Daily Post quoted a UK Home Office official: “Physical documents are becoming a thing of the past; the eVisa is secure, digital, and the future of our border system.”
Echotitbits take: This is a crucial update for the “Japa” generation and frequent travelers. The digital shift eliminates the risk of losing physical permits but places a higher burden on travelers to ensure their online records are perfectly synchronized with their current passports.
Source: The Nation – https://thenationonlineng.net/uk-to-replace-paper-visas-with-evisas-from-february-25/, February 14, 2026
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New 2026 Tax Laws Take Effect: Zero Corporate Tax for Small Businesses
According to Bloomberg Tax and local reporting by Kuda on February 14, 2026, Nigeria’s comprehensive tax reforms have officially entered their implementation phase, significantly altering the landscape for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The new framework stipulates that businesses with an annual turnover below ₦50 million are now exempt from paying corporate income tax, a move aimed at stimulating local production and entrepreneurship.
In addition to corporate tax relief, the personal income tax threshold has been raised to ₦800,000 annually, providing a breather for low-income earners. The law also introduces a 4% development levy for larger corporations while exempting those earning less than ₦100 million. These changes represent the most significant overhaul of the Nigerian tax system in decades, focusing on “taxing income, not capital.”
Validation from Premium Times and Tribune Online indicates that the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has already begun sensitizing businesses on the new rules. Premium Times noted that “the reforms aim to formalize the informal sector,” while Tribune Online quoted a tax consultant: “The zero-tax policy for SMEs is a game-changer for the 2026 fiscal year.”
Echotitbits take: This is a pro-growth policy that could significantly reduce the cost of doing business in Nigeria. The challenge will be the FIRS’s ability to prevent larger firms from splitting into smaller entities to exploit the ₦50 million exemption threshold.
Source: Kuda – https://kuda.com/blog/nigeria-2026-tax-reform-what-it-means-for-your-money-and-business/, February 14, 2026
Photo credit: Kuda