Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • C-G NSCDC inaugurates 2 Divisional, 1 Area Command offices in Enugu

    C-G NSCDC inaugurates 2 Divisional, 1 Area Command offices in Enugu

    C-G NSCDC inaugurates 2 Divisional, 1 Area Command offices in Enugu

    The Commandant-General of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Prof. Ahmed Audi, has inaugurated two NSCDC Divisional and one Area Command headquarters offices within Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area (LGA) of Enugu State.

    The divisional headquarters are located within Ohodo and Ekwegbe communities and the area command headquarters complex is located at Ukehe community all within Igbo-Etiti LGA.

    Inaugurating the well-furnished headquarters on Wednesday, Audi commended the Chairman of the council, Dr Eric Odo, for prioritising security and safety of his people and building enduring peace necessary for sustainable development.

    Represented by Assistant Commandant-General of NSCDC in-charge of Zone 13, ACG Cyprian Nwannukwu, assured the people of the council area of adequate deployment of committed personnel to the divisions and area command.

    “With these great support and partnership of the chairman, council authorities and people of Igbo-Etiti; the NSCDC will reevaluate the security situation of this area and ensure adequate and round the clock security of the council.

    “The Corps will ensure further equipping of the complexes with operational and logistics needs, while we are grateful for the brand new operational vehicle donated to the Area Command,” he said.

    Speaking, the Commandant of NSCDC Enugu State Command, Dr Elijah Willie, appreciated the Commandant-General for approving expansion of the state’s division from 17 to 37 as well as expansion of the area command to seven.

    “I am grateful to God Almighty using the Chairman of Igbo-Etiti to give us brand new and benefiting operational complexes, a vehicular support and other assistance as well as our C-G approving all of them,”  Willie said

    Earlier, Odo said that Igbo-Etiti remained the first local government area in Enugu State, if not in Nigeria, to construct, equip and furnish a federal security infrastructure in three strategic locations simultaneously.

    The chairman said that he was inspired by Gov. Peter Mbah to invest heavily in security; adding that “true peace is sustained — not by waiting for crime to happen, but by preventing it”.

    “As a responsible government, we understand that no meaningful progress or development can take place in a chaotic and insecure environment.

    “No investor whether local or foreign, will bring an investment let alone invest a dime in a place where security of lives and property is not guaranteed.

    “Therefore, the commissioning of this NSCDC Area Command and Divisional Headquarters is a clear demonstration of our administration’s resolve and commitment to beef up security in Igbo-Etiti.

    “It is a stern warning that all length and breath of our dear local government will no longer a soft target or hiding spot for criminals,” he said.

    Odo noted that these facilities are one of the ways his administration had fulfilled its promise of adequate security to Igbo-Etiti people, adding: “We are not just solving today’s problems — we are protecting future generations”.

    “Going forward, our administration will provide maintenance and logistical support to these commands, strengthen joint-security task forces, if need be, expand digital reporting and community intelligence gathering mechanisms and continue to invest in peace-building structures and youth empowerment.”

  • TMSG hails FG for conceding 5% of its VAT allocation to sub-nationals

    TMSG hails FG for conceding 5% of its VAT allocation to sub-nationals

     

    By Iyiola Olalere

    The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) is confident that the sub-nationals would, this year, get far more than the N3.77 trillion allocated to states from Value Added Tax (VAT) collections in 2025 as a result of the strong commitment of the President Bola Tinubu administration to grassroots development.

    According to the group, this is reflected in the administration’s decision to allocate five per cent of the federal government’s share of VAT receipts to states starting in 2026.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman Emeka Nwankpa and Secretary Dapo Okubanjo, TMSG pointed out that this will automatically increase the allocation to states from the federation account.

    The statement reads in part: “We are aware that data from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) on VAT allocation to the three tiers of government for 2025 showed a 26.46% year-on year increase from the N6.11 trillion disbursed in 2024 to N7.73 trillion.

    “And while it may be easy to attribute the increase to inflation, we are certain that improved compliance by businesses as a result of efficiency in revenue collection by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) now known as the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) played a major role.

    “Now with the tax reforms operational, especially as the federal government has conceded five per cent from its original 15% share to states, the allocation to the sub-nationals from VAT collections is bound to increase.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, under the new tax laws, the federal government gets 10% of VAT collections, 55% goes to the states while the local government collects 35% as part of efforts to empower the sub-nationals to embark on developmental projects.

    “We believe that the Tinubu administration deserves commendation not only for ensuring improved VAT collections but also for conceding 90% of all accruals from VAT to states and local governments.

    “There is no reason why the sub-nationals would not get far more than they did in 2025 from VAT this year. We also believe that there is no reason why Nigerians, especially at the grassroots should not feel the benefit of improved allocations.”

    TMSG added that it looks forward to governments at sub-national levels doing more than they are doing to complement the efforts of the Tinubu administration across all sectors of the economy.

     

    END

  • Betta Edu Hails Nigerian Armed Forces’ Successes Against Insurgents

    Betta Edu Hails Nigerian Armed Forces’ Successes Against Insurgents

     

    – Says the Military Remains Nigeria’s Pillar of Strength, Unity and Security

     

     

     

    By Biola Lawal

    Abuja (FLOWERBUDNEWS):  Dr. Betta Edu, Nigeria’s erstwhile Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, has commended the bravery and dedication of the Nigerian military, noting the armed forces remained the nation’s pillar of strength.

    Reflecting on the achievements of the Nigerian military in a recent times. Betta Edu noted that the forces had  remained resolute, standing as guardians of Nigeria’s collective identity with courage, discipline, and patriotism.

    ”The Armed Forces continue to play a decisive role in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, securing land, air, and maritime borders against forces that threaten national sovereignty,” the erstwhile Honourable Minister stated.

    Betta Edu said that through sustained operations and strategic vigilance, the armed forces had ensured that Nigeria remained whole and indivisible, strengthening public confidence in the authority of the state.

    ”)n the fight against insurgency, the military has recorded significant gains, dismantling terrorist enclaves, reclaiming territories, and restoring civil governance in affected areas,” Dr. Betta Edu reflected.

    She noted that ”these efforts have weakened insurgent networks and allowed displaced citizens to return home and rebuild their lives.”

    In a statement she personally signed to celebrate Nigerian armed forces during this year’s armed forces remembrance day, Dr. Betta Edu wrote:

    I celebrate the Nigerian Armed Forces for their steadfast service to the unity, peace, and stability of our dear nation.

    As we commemorate this year’s Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, we honour the fallen heroes and acknowledge the sacrifices of officers and personnel who have paid the ultimate price in service to Nigeria.

    Their bravery and commitment reflect an unshakable loyalty to the nation.

    I salute our heroes in uniform and reaffirm the need for continued national support as they sustain the fight for peace, unity, and security.

    Happy Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day. May the Labour of our Heroes past never be in vain. One Nigeria; non-negotiable! (Flowerbudnews)

     

  • CBN approves BDCs’ participation in foreign exchange market

    CBN approves BDCs’ participation in foreign exchange market

     

    The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says it has approved the participation of licensed Bureau De Change (BDC) operators in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM).

    According to a circular signed by the Director, Trade and Exchange Department, Dr Musa Nakorji,, the move is part of efforts to improve foreign exchange liquidity in the retail segment of the market.

    The circular said that the CBN had also approved that weekly FX purchases by each BDC be capped at 150,000 dollars, and that utilisation comply with existing BDC operational guidelines.

    “All BDCs duly licensed by the CBN are permitted to access foreign exchange through any Authorised Dealer Bank of their choice, at the prevailing market rates.

    “The move aims to deepen market efficiency and ensure broader access to foreign exchange across the economy,”it said.

    The CBN, however, imposed strict compliance and risk-management conditions on the transactions.

    It said that authorised dealers were required to conduct full Know-Your-Customer (KYC) and due diligence checks on BDC clients before any FX sale.

    To strengthen transparency and accountability, the apex bank directed that all licensed BDCs must submit timely and accurate electronic returns in line with extant regulations.

    It added, “Any unutilised foreign exchange must be sold back to the market within 24 hours, as BDCs are prohibited from holding FX positions purchased from the NFEM.”

    The circular further restricts settlement practices, mandating that all FX transactions be conducted through settlement accounts with licensed financial institutions.

    It said that third-party transactions were prohibited, while cash settlement is limited to a maximum of 25 per cent of each transaction amount.

    “Overall, the directive reflects the CBN’s broader strategy to balance market access with strong regulatory oversight, ensuring liquidity in the foreign exchange market while safeguarding financial system integrity.

  • Court adjourns trial of defendants who allegedly cyberbullying lawmaker until Feb. 16

    Court adjourns trial of defendants who allegedly cyberbullying lawmaker until Feb. 16

     

    The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, adjourned the trial of an Abuja-based lawyer and four other social media influencers, who allegedly cyberbullying Sen. Shehu Buba Umar, until Feb. 16.

    Justice Rita Offili-Ajumogobia fixed the date following an application by Leyii Abueh, counsel for the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), seeking the court’s permission to re-arraign the defendants on amended charge.

    It would be recalled that two witnesses had given their evidence in the ongoing trial of the lawyer, Ahmed Abdulrahman, and his co-defendants.

    One of the witnesses, Rabiu-Rangers Abdullahi, on Monday, told the court how David Daure, the 2nd defendant, attempted to use the name of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, to defraud Sen. Umar.

    The AGF and Minister of Justice, Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, had, in December 2025, taken over the prosecution of the matter from the Inspector General (I-G) of Police.

    Abdulrahman (1st defendant) and his co-defendants were initially being prosecuted by the I-G.

    The I-G, in the charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/526/2025 and filed by Anthony Egwu on Oct. 6, 2025, named David Daure, Ishaq Muhammed, Abdulrashid Musa and Nasir Abubakar as 2nd to 5th defendants respectively.

    The defendants were, on Oct. 30, 2025, arraigned on 11 counts which also bordered on alleged cybercrime, defamation, advance fee fraud, among others.

    They, however, pleaded not guilty to the counts and they were remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre before they were admitted to bail.

    Upon resumed trial on Tuesday, the prosecution lawyer, Abueh, informed the court that though the matter was for continuation of trial, she said an amended charge had been filed.

    The lawyer sought the permission of the court to substitute the initial charge with the amended one.

    The defence lawyers, including Abdul Mohammed, SAN; Hamza Danttani, Afix Matanmi and A A. Badmus, did not raise any objection and the judge ordered that the charge be read so that the defendants could take their plea.

    However, while the counts were being read, the judge asked the prosecuting counsel if there is any significant change in the amended charge.

    Abueh told the court that in the initial charge, there was a mistake in the name of the lawmaker, who is the nominal complainant.

    She also said that the law cited in the earlier charge was not appropriately captured and that the prosecution had an additional evidence to tender in the trial.

    Justice Offili-Ajumogobia then advised that if the defence lawyers would not oppose to correcting the minor mistakes in the earlier charge and the need to bring in additional evidence, the amended charge could be dropped in order to accelerate hearing in the trial.

    The judge, who said justice delay is justice denied, said such move would safe the precious time of the court on hearing another bail applications of the defendants, among others.

    The defence and the prosecution lawyers agreed with the judge’s suggestion and the matter was adjourned until Feb. 16 for the prosecution to address the court on the need for the amended charge and for the defence to respond appropriately.

    In count one of the earlier charge, the defendants were alleged to have, sometime in 2025, conspired among themselves “to commit an offence, to wit; cyberstalking against Senator Shehu Buba Umar.”

    The offence is said to be contrary to Section 27(1)(b) and punishable under Section 21(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act 2015 (as amended) 2024.

    In count three, Abdulrahman was alleged to have, sometime in 2025, intentionally sent a video via his Tiktok handle with user name “Kibanna Channel” and his Youtube channel to defame the lawmaker by linking him to sponsorship of banditry with a view to tarnishing his image as a serving Senator.

    The suspect was alleged to have stated that “Senator Umar, a serving Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is a sponsor of banditry and called for his investigation, a statement you made by means of computer systems and network knowing same to be false, for the purpose of causing breakdown of law and order and causing the Senator fear of death”.

    The offence Is also said to be contrary to Section 24(1)(5) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015 (as amended) 2024, among other counts, among others.

  • Betta Edu hosts Donald Trumps ally and 111th mayor of New York Eric Adams

    Betta Edu hosts Donald Trumps ally and 111th mayor of New York Eric Adams

     

    –  Meeting, very strategic, coming in the heat of the controversy around Christian persecution and Genocide in Nigeria and the newly formed collaboration between the USA and Nigeria Government, around security and protection of Christians in Nigeria

    Dr Betta Edu, on Sunday, hosted the 111th Mayor of New York City; Eric Adams, at her residence in Abuja, on his first international visit post mayoralty.

    The meeting, which was very strategic in the heat of the controversy around Christian persecution and Genocide in Nigeria and the newly formed collaboration between the USA and Nigeria Government, around security and protection of Christians in Nigeria

    Strategic focus discussions held around the Nigerian context and security situation as perceived by ordinary citizens; humanitarian situation in Nigeria, the gaps brought about by the cut of humanitarian assistance from the US Government and other bilateral/ multilateral organizations; the Health sector and the Nigerian Journey to Achieving universal health coverage especially nailing “out-of-pocket”health expenditure as one of the major drivers of poverty in the country.

    The duo also held discussions around the economy and the need for Eric Adams to use his global platform to attract investors to Nigeria as the economy is stable and ready to support mutually beneficial investments. She appealed to him to be an advocate for Nigeria, mobilize the large Nigerian community in New York to defend the country positively, and tell the Nigerian story from our perspective. While seeking ways to return to their root and contribute to the speedy growth and development in Nigeria!

    Adams, a former police officer and two-term President of the New York City Council, served as the 111th Mayor of New York City from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2025, and is on his first international visit post mayoralty.

    The meeting came amid rising US concerns over insecurity, emerging gaps in the health and humanitarian sector in Nigeria following the cut of Aids to several countries Nigeria included, alongside renewed efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s governments to deepen cooperation on security and the protection of vulnerable communities across Nigeria.

    According to Edu, the discussions highlighted Nigeria’s security situation from the citizens’ perspective, addressed humanitarian challenges, and the gaps resulting from dwindling support from the US and other international partners.

    The health sector also featured prominently, with emphasis on Nigeria’s push towards Universal Health Coverage, particularly the impact of out-of-pocket healthcare spending, identified as a major contributor to poverty index in the country.

    On the economy, Edu said Nigeria’s economy was stabilising and open to mutually beneficial investments, urging Adams to leverage his international influence and extensive network to attract investors to the country.

    She also appealed to him to be an advocate for peace, unity, and development in Nigeria. She appealed that the US collaboration with Nigeria should be holistic. Beyond security, the US should find ways of supporting health, humanitarian, education, and other relevant sectors for a more durable holistic solution to insecurity. She encouraged him to use his platform and network to mobilise the Nigerian diaspora in New York to defend Nigeria’s image positively, tell the country’s story from our perspective, and contribute to national development back home.

    “I feel honoured to receive him, and Nigeria will greatly benefit from this strategic visit. We strongly believe he will use his global platform and network in the United States of America and beyond to advocate for Nigeria and mobilise support for the Nigerian people,” Edu said.

    In his remarks, Adams highlighted the contributions of Nigerians to New York City, describing the city as home to one of the largest Nigerian diasporas communities in the world.

    He urged Nigerians in the United States to remain connected to their roots and contribute to Nigeria’s development, saying, “You are Nigerian-American, not American-Nigerian.”

    Adams also pledged to use his global profile and networks to attract investment opportunities to Nigeria, attract grants and development funding for some sectors discussed, while mobilising Nigerians in New York to support development back home which will help to reduce insecurity, and poverty, while supporting improved healthcare delivery and increased school enrolment.

    showcasing Nigerian hospitality, Dr Betta gave the Mayor several locally made Sourvenier, including beautiful Adire fabric materials.

  • FG commends committee over Nigeria’s successful IMO Council election

    Pictures of the committee members who received ministerial commendation over Nigeria’s IMO Council victory
    IMO
    FG commends committee over Nigeria’s successful IMO Council election
    Lagos, February.,10, 2026 ,The Federal Government has commended nine members of an Inter-Ministerial Committee for their roles in Nigeria’s successful election into Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council.
    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lagos by his Special Adviser, Dr Bolaji Akinola.
    Oyetola said the commendation followed the committee’s contribution to Nigeria’s election into the IMO Council for the 2026–2027 biennium.
    Nigeria secured the seat at the IMO Council elections held on Nov. 28, 2025, in London, marking a significant milestone in the country’s maritime and diplomatic engagements.
    He said the commendation letters, dated Jan. 28, 2026, were signed by him in recognition of the members’ commitment, professionalism and strategic coordination throughout the campaign process.
    Those commended include the Chairman of the committee, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola, former Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy; Mr Babatunde Bombata, former Director of the Maritime Safety and Security Department of the ministry and
    It also include Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA); Dr Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and Mr Obinna Chiedu Onowu, Director, International Organisations Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
    Others are Dr Ade Dosunmu, former Director-General of NIMASA; Dr Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister; Dr Paschal Ogar, Assistant Director, Maritime Safety and Security Department, who served as Secretary to the committee; and Mr William Balla, Nigeria’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the IMO.
    Oyetola said the committee’s strategic engagement with IMO member states and effective campaign coordination were critical to Nigeria’s success.
    According to him, the efforts of the committee showcased Nigeria’s maritime reforms, capacity and potential on the global stage, while strengthening the country’s standing within the international maritime community.
    He added that the contributions of the members reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to the objectives of the IMO and enhanced international maritime cooperation.

     

  • THE COURT OF APPEAL JUDGEMENT AND SEPARATION OF POWERS: SENATOR NATASHA AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN AND THE CLERK OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA & 3 ORS

     

     

    By Rt. Hon Eseme Eyiboh mnipr

    The judgment of the Court of Appeal delivered on Monday, February 9, 2026, represents a consequential affirmation of the constitutional principles that sustain Nigeria’s democratic order and the orderly functioning of its institutions.

    By upholding the disciplinary actions of the Senate as lawful and procedurally sound, the Court has robustly reinforced the doctrine of separation of powers, a cornerstone of our constitutional democracy. The ruling confirms with unmistakable clarity that the authority of the Senate to regulate its internal proceedings and discipline its members is firmly rooted in the Constitution and its Standing Orders. This authority is neither incidental nor ornamental; it is an essential responsibility entrusted to the legislature to preserve order, decorum, and institutional integrity in the discharge of its duties on behalf of the Nigerian people.

    The Court of Appeal has further enriched our constitutional jurisprudence by clearly delineating the proper limits of judicial intervention in the internal affairs of a coordinate arm of government. While reaffirming the judiciary’s vital role as guardian of fundamental rights, the judgment recognises that the legislature must retain the autonomy necessary to enforce its rules and maintain discipline, provided it acts within the province of the law. This equilibrium is indispensable to effective governance and democratic stability.

    The circumstances that gave rise to this litigation are regrettable. Parliamentary democracy rests on respect for established rules, collective responsibility, and due deference to the authority of the Chair. Persistent refusal to comply with lawful directives of the Presiding Officer—including the reallocation of seating arrangements within the chamber—as well as failure to appear before the statutory Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, runs counter to the ethos of parliamentary conduct. Such actions risk undermining institutional authority and distracting from the Senate’s higher obligations of legislation, oversight, and representation in the national interest.

    While the Court of Appeal set aside the contempt proceedings and the associated fine on procedural grounds, it is significant that the core findings affirming the Senate’s disciplinary powers and the validity of its actions remain undisturbed. This distinction reinforces both the primacy of due process and the legitimacy of institutional self-regulation under the Constitution.

    As the Senate moves forward, it remains steadfast in its constitutional mandate to foster robust debate, exercise rigorous oversight, and enact legislation that advances the peace, order, and good government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. In keeping with the spirit of reconciliation and institutional maturity that must guide democratic leadership, the Senate looks ahead with restraint, goodwill, and an abiding commitment to collective purpose rather than past grievance.

    In this spirit, the Senator concerned, who has since resumed legislative duties, is expected to continue her duties with renewed adherence to parliamentary rules, mutual respect, and the shared responsibilities that bind all members of the National Assembly.

    The strength of our democracy ultimately lies in the strength of its institutions, each operating responsibly within its recognised constitutional remit. The judgment of the Court of Appeal fortifies that foundation and renews the resolve to build a disciplined, stable, and forward-looking legislature in service of the Nigerian people.

    The facts have spoken for themselves

    God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

     

    (Rt. Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, MNIPR
    Special Adviser, Media/Publicity and Official Spokesperson
    to the President of the Senate)

  • BREAKING: Senate sets up 12-Man team on Electoral Act amendment

    BREAKING: Senate sets up 12-Man team on Electoral Act amendment

     

    The Nigerian Senate has announced the appointment of 12 senators to work together with the House of Representatives on the proposed amendments to the Electoral Act. This move comes as part of efforts to resolve controversies surrounding the bill.

    The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, revealed the names of the committee members on Tuesday during an emergency plenary session. Notable senators included in the committee are Orji Uzor Kalu and Tahir Monguno.

    The emergency session was called to address concerns and disagreements over the proposed changes to the Electoral Act, which have sparked widespread discussion among lawmakers, political observers, and the public.

    The bill seeks to update and improve Nigeria’s electoral framework, though some of its provisions have been met with debate and differing opinions across party lines.

    The Senate committee is expected to work closely with the House of Representatives to harmonize their positions on the bill and ensure that any amendments reflect the interests of Nigerians. More updates from the ongoing session are expected in the coming days.