Lagos State Unveils ₦7 Billion Jetty and Housing Schemes for Oworonshoki

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January 5, 2026

Reporting by The Punch indicates that the Lagos State Government has approved a ₦7 billion developmental plan for the Oworonshoki waterfront. The project includes a modern ferry jetty designed to decongest road traffic and several low-to-medium income housing schemes. This move is part of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s ‘THEMES+’ agenda to transform the state’s aquatic corridors into economic hubs.

The Oworonshoki project is expected to create over 2,000 jobs during the construction phase and provide a safer, faster transport alternative for residents commuting to the Island. Officials emphasized that environmental impact assessments have been concluded to ensure that the dredging and construction do not displace local fishing communities or disrupt the ecosystem.

Supporting reports from Channels TV and The Nation confirm the project’s launch. Channels TV reported that ‘the jetty will be integrated into the existing Cowry Card payment system,’ while The Nation noted, ‘Property values in Oworonshoki are already skyrocketing in anticipation of the groundbreaking.’

Echotitbits take: Oworonshoki has long been a ‘transit point’ rather than a destination. By investing ₦7 billion, the government is essentially trying to ‘Lekki-ize’ the area. The key challenge will be ensuring that ‘low-income housing’ actually reaches the poor and isn’t snatched up by real estate speculators.
Source: The Punch – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/845004-lagos-govt-gives-oworonshoki-landlords-two-months-to-regularise-building-approvals.html January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: The Punch

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Osun Local Government Workers Resume Work After 11-Month Strike

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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Figures cited by Vanguard show that local government workers in Osun State have officially resumed their duties following a grueling 11-month industrial action. The strike was sparked by a violent clash between APC and PDP supporters over the control of local council secretariats last year. The Association of Concerned Local Government Workers (ACCLGW) has now urged its members to ‘eschew violence’ and maintain professional ethics as they return to their desks.

The resumption follows a series of mediation efforts led by traditional rulers and the state government. While the political dispute over council leadership remains in court, a temporary agreement was reached to allow administrative staff to return to ensure that basic services, such as waste management and primary health monitoring, are restored to the communities.

Validation of this return to work was provided by The Punch and Daily Post. The Punch noted that ‘council secretariats were heavily guarded by police on Monday morning,’ while Daily Post quoted a union leader: ‘Our priority is the welfare of our members and the service to the people of Osun.’

Echotitbits take: An 11-month strike is a catastrophic failure of local governance. While the staff are back, the ‘peace’ is fragile and entirely dependent on the upcoming court ruling regarding the local government elections. Watch for whether the Ademola Adeleke administration can maintain this truce without further political skirmishes.
Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/11-months-after-strike-union-warns-workers-against-violence/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: Vanguard

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Suspended Kwara Lawmaker Saba Gideon Challenges Illegal Pay Freeze

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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In an update published by The Punch, suspended Kwara State House of Assembly member Saba Gideon has filed a formal challenge against the ‘illegal’ freezing of his salaries and allowances. Gideon, who was suspended following a protocol dispute with the House leadership, argues that withholding his pay is a violation of his constituents’ rights and an extra-judicial punishment that exceeds the House’s disciplinary powers.

The House of Assembly, however, defended its decision, citing a breach of internal protocol and ‘unparliamentary conduct.’ The case has drawn national attention to the power of state house speakers to ‘financially starve’ opposing members. Gideon’s legal team is seeking an immediate court injunction to restore his benefits, arguing that a suspension from sitting does not equal a termination of employment.

Further reporting from Daily Post and Leadership tracks the legislative standoff. Daily Post reported that ‘constituents in Gideon’s district have staged protests,’ while Leadership quoted a parliamentary expert: ‘Suspending a lawmaker’s pay is a grey legal area that the courts need to clarify once and for all.’

Echotitbits take: This is a classic ‘political bullying’ tactic seen in many state assemblies. By cutting off a lawmaker’s pay, the leadership effectively disables their ability to fund constituency projects or legal defenses. The court’s ruling on this will be a landmark for legislative independence in Nigeria.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/suspended-kwara-lawmaker-denies-secret-recording-slams-three-month-ban/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: The Punch

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Femi Falana Slams Judges for Granting Bail to Alleged Security Fund Looters

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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Reporting by The Punch indicates that human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has criticized the Nigerian judiciary for using ‘legal technicalities’ to release individuals accused of stealing billions intended for arms procurement. Falana argued that while soldiers are being sent to the frontlines with inadequate equipment, those responsible for diverting the funds are enjoying freedom and ‘obstructing justice’ through prolonged bail and stay-of-proceedings.

The senior advocate called for a dedicated ‘Anti-Corruption Court’ to fast-track cases involving national security funds. He emphasized that the current judicial system is too slow and susceptible to influence from wealthy defendants. Falana’s critique comes amid fresh reports of military casualties in the North-East, which he links directly to the ‘financial sabotage’ of the defense budget.

Supporting reports from Premium Times and Channels TV validate Falana’s stance. Premium Times noted that ‘Falana’s call for special courts is gaining traction among activists,’ while Channels TV quoted him directly: ‘Technicalities should not be a shield for those who leave our soldiers vulnerable.’

Echotitbits take: Falana is highlighting the ‘disconnect’ between the courtrooms and the trenches. The Nigerian judiciary is often criticized for being ‘pro-defendant’ in high-profile corruption cases. Watch for whether the National Judicial Council (NJC) issues a new directive on ‘priority corruption cases’ to counter this narrative.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/treasury-looters-dont-deserve-bail-says-falana/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: The Punch

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Former Attorney General Aondoakaa Demands US Air Strikes on Benue Bandits

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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According to The Punch, former Attorney General of the Federation, Michael Aondoakaa, has made a controversial call for the Nigerian government to invite US military air strikes against bandits terrorizing Benue State. Aondoakaa argued that the local security apparatus has been overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the gangs and that international intervention is now required to prevent a total collapse of order in the Middle Belt.

The senior lawyer suggested that the US could deploy precision drones similar to those used in counter-terrorism operations elsewhere. His remarks have sparked a fierce debate over national sovereignty and the effectiveness of current military strategies. Critics argue that foreign intervention could complicate the local conflict, while supporters believe it is a necessary ‘shock therapy’ for the escalating violence.

Validation of these remarks appeared in Daily Post and Leadership. Daily Post reported that ‘Aondoakaa’s proposal has divided the legal and security community,’ while Leadership quoted a security analyst who warned: ‘Inviting foreign strikes on your own soil is a dangerous precedent that rarely ends well.’

Echotitbits take: This is a desperate call that reflects the level of frustration in Benue State. While highly unlikely to happen—as the US rarely intervenes in internal banditry—it puts immense pressure on the Nigerian Air Force to show more ‘precision’ in their own operations. Watch for a defensive statement from the Defence Headquarters in response to Aondoakaa.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/ex-agf-aondoakaa-calls-for-us-air-strikes-in-benue/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: The Punch

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Governor Abba Yusuf Postpones Highly Anticipated Defection to APC

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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Reporting by Daily Post indicates that the rumored move of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been delayed. Initially expected to take place on Monday, January 5, the official ceremony was reportedly pushed back to allow for further ‘high-level consultations’ between the Governor’s camp and the presidency.

Speculation about the defection has dominated Kano politics for weeks, following several high-profile meetings between Yusuf and APC leaders. Sources suggest that the delay may be linked to internal friction within the Kano APC chapter, where some leaders are wary of the power shift the Governor’s entry would cause. For now, Yusuf remains the only NNPP governor in the country, though his long-term loyalty remains a subject of intense debate.

Validating reports from Vanguard and The Nation track the political tension. Vanguard noted that ‘the defection would effectively end the Kwankwasiyya influence in Kano,’ while The Nation quoted an APC senator who congratulated Yusuf on his birthday, calling him a ‘committed democratic leader’—a move seen as a public invitation.

Echotitbits take: This is ‘delay but not denial.’ In Nigerian politics, a postponed defection usually means the ‘price’ of the move is still being negotiated—specifically, who controls the party structure in the state. If Yusuf moves, it could lead to a total realignment of the North-West political bloc ahead of 2027.
Source: TheNation – https://thenationonlineng.net/governor-yusufs-planned-defection-to-apc-shifted-to-january-12/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: TheGuardian

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Boat Tragedy in Yobe State Claims 26 Lives as 14 Remain Missing

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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Figures cited by Tribune Online show that at least 26 people drowned after a boat carrying dozens of farmers and market traders capsized in Yobe State. Emergency services confirmed that 14 others remain missing after the vessel, which was reportedly overloaded, overturned in a remote waterway. The victims were mostly returning from a local market when the incident occurred late Saturday night.

The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) noted that the search for survivors is ongoing, though hopes of finding more people alive are fading. Local authorities have blamed the recurring tragedies on the lack of life jackets and the use of aging, wooden canoes for mass transit. This latest disaster has prompted calls from northern governors for a total ban on night travel on the region’s inland waterways.

Supporting reports from Channels TV and Daily Post highlight the regional grief. Channels TV reported that ‘northern governors have collectively condemned the lack of safety enforcement,’ while Daily Post quoted a survivor who lamented, ‘We were too many on the boat, but there was no other way home.’

Echotitbits take: Waterway safety in Nigeria remains a ‘primitive’ sector compared to aviation or road transport. Until the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) begins distributing free or subsidized life jackets and enforcing passenger manifests at every local jetty, these ‘market day’ tragedies will continue to haunt the riverine communities.
Source: ChatNews – https://chatnewstoday.ca/2026/01/04/25-are-dead-and-14-more-missing-after-boat-capsizes-in-nigerias-yobe-state/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: Facebook

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NNPC Ordered to Disclose Full Details of $3 Billion ‘Crude-for-Cash’ Loan

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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In an update published by The Punch, a Federal High Court has ruled that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited must release the full details of its controversial $3 billion ‘crude-for-cash’ loan. The judgment is seen as a massive victory for transparency advocates who have long questioned the terms and conditions of the deal, which used future oil production as collateral for immediate liquidity.

The court’s decision compels NNPC to reveal the interest rates, repayment schedules, and the specific identities of the financiers involved in the transaction. Legal experts believe this sets a precedent for other state-owned enterprises (SOEs) that have previously operated under a veil of ‘commercial confidentiality.’ NNPC has not yet indicated whether it will appeal the ruling.

Validation of this legal development appeared in Premium Times and Daily Post. Premium Times reported that ‘the ruling challenges the culture of secrecy in the oil sector,’ while Daily Post quoted a civil society leader: ‘Nigerians deserve to know how their future oil wealth is being mortgaged today.’

Echotitbits take: This is a ‘litmus test’ for the NNPC’s claim of being a fully commercialized, transparent entity. If the details reveal unfavorable terms, it could lead to a significant political backlash against the leadership of the oil company. Watch for whether the Ministry of Justice supports an appeal or pushes for disclosure to appease international investors.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/court-orders-nnpc-to-disclose-details-of-3bn-crude-for-cash-loan/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: The Punch

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Over 860,000 Students Benefit as NELFUND Disbursed Loans Reach ₦161 Billion

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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Reporting by The Punch indicates that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has surpassed a major milestone, with total disbursements reaching ₦161.97 billion. This funding has directly benefited 864,798 students across various public tertiary institutions in the country. The program, a flagship initiative of the Tinubu administration, aims to reduce the dropout rate by providing interest-free loans for tuition and monthly upkeep.

NELFUND officials stated that the application process has been further streamlined to ensure that students from underserved backgrounds are prioritized. The fund is currently working with the National Universities Commission (NUC) to integrate more vocational and technical colleges into the scheme, recognizing the need for skilled labor in the non-oil sector.

Further reporting from Channels TV and Leadership validates the expansion of the scheme. Channels TV noted that ‘the fund has become a lifeline for families struggling with inflation,’ while Leadership quoted a student union leader who said, ‘NELFUND is the only reason many of us are still in school this semester.’

Echotitbits take: NELFUND is perhaps the administration’s most successful ‘social contract’ project. However, the long-term sustainability depends on the repayment model, which is tied to post-graduation employment. If the economy doesn’t produce jobs for these 860,000 students, the government may eventually face a massive ‘student debt’ crisis of its own.
Source: ChannelsTv – https://www.channelstv.com/2025/08/15/%E2%82%A686bn-disbursed-449000-students-beneficiaries-recorded-nelfund/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: ChannelsTv

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New Tax Regime Exempts Nigerians Earning Below ₦800,000 Annually

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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According to Cowrywise Financial Blog, the new Nigerian Tax Act has officially come into full effect as of January 1, 2026, introducing a 0% tax rate for individuals earning ₦800,000 or less per year. This reform is part of a broader strategy to provide ‘social cushioning’ for low-income earners while progressively increasing the tax burden on high-net-worth individuals and large corporations. The new brackets peak at 25% for those earning over ₦150 million.

The act also introduces significant relief for small businesses, with the ‘Development Levy’ now only applying to companies with a turnover exceeding ₦100 million. Additionally, the threshold for tax-exempt redundancy pay has been increased from ₦10 million to ₦50 million, providing a larger safety net for workers facing job losses in a fluctuating economy.

Validating reports from Moniepoint and The Punch emphasize the focus on compliance. Moniepoint warned that ‘unregistered businesses will struggle to operate on digital platforms under the new code,’ while The Punch quoted the FIRS Chairman: ‘Our goal is a broader base, not necessarily higher rates for the common man.’

Echotitbits take: This is the most significant overhaul of personal income tax in decades. While the ₦800k exemption is a win for the poor, the real challenge is the ‘informal sector’ capture. Watch for a massive push by the FIRS to link Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) and National Identity Numbers (NIN) to new ‘Tax IDs’ for petty traders this quarter.
Source: TheCable – https://www.thecable.ng/key-concerns-and-benefits-as-the-new-tax-laws-take-effect/ January 5, 2026

Photo Credit: TheCable

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