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PDP Crisis Deepens as Wike Camp Rejects Zoning Talks with Makinde, Diri

Tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have escalated ahead of the party’s National Elective Convention scheduled for November in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The camp loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has openly rejected the outcome of the Southern Leaders’ Zoning Consultative meeting, which was convened in Lagos on Wednesday.

The meeting, spearheaded by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, was aimed at forging consensus among Southern leaders on zoning arrangements ahead of the convention. However, the Wike camp dismissed the gathering, describing it as “unrepresentative and self-serving.”

Party insiders revealed that Wike’s loyalists insist that the zoning issue must be handled through broader consultation within the PDP National Executive Committee rather than what they termed as “exclusive caucus deals.”

The development signals deepening cracks within the opposition party, raising concerns about unity ahead of the November convention, where key leadership positions are expected to be keenly contested.

Hon. (Chief) Okonta Commends Governor Oborevwori for Flagging Off Widows’ Welfare Scheme

Agboje Chuks

Hon. (Chief) Isioma Okonta, Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Social Investment Programs, has lauded Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for officially launching the Widows’ Welfare Scheme, describing him as a “people-oriented governor with a heart for the vulnerable.”

Hon. Okonta said the initiative reflects Governor Oborevwori’s unwavering passion for the well-being of Deltans, particularly marginalized groups who often struggle for survival.

The program was formally launched on August 19, 2025, at the Events Centre, Asaba, in what many have described as a landmark step in the Governor’s MORE Agenda aimed at inclusive governance and social upliftment.

In his remarks, Governor Oborevwori emphasized his personal commitment to supporting widows, both in his private life and public service. He noted that widowhood remains one of the most painful human experiences, often leaving women abandoned and burdened with survival challenges.

“Being a widow is not by choice, and it will never be anyone’s choice,” the Governor said. “Beyond the pain of losing a loved one, widows are left with the burden of survival. That is why this administration is determined to improve their living conditions and give them hope.”

The Governor stressed that the scheme aligns with the second pillar of his MORE Agenda—Opportunities for All—and fulfills his campaign promise to run an inclusive government that prioritizes the poor and vulnerable.

He disclosed that under the initiative, 10,000 widows across Delta State will receive a monthly stipend of ₦15,000, credited directly into their bank accounts.

“To provide immediate relief, each beneficiary will receive an initial ₦45,000 lump sum, covering three months in arrears.”

In addition to financial aid, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori noted that the enrolled widows will also benefit from the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, granting them free medical care at accredited hospitals and primary health centers.

Hon. Okonta hailed this dual package of financial and health support as a “masterstroke,” stressing that access to healthcare was also important like the stipends.

“This health insurance is equally important because it guarantees that no widow will be denied medical care due to lack of funds,” he said.

Chief Okonta who is a respected community leader from Abavo in Ika South Local Government Area, emphasized that the program is non-political.

He explained that the beneficiaries were selected through a transparent, community-driven process, involving traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society groups who verified claims of widowhood and vulnerability.

The scheme, he added, covers all 270 wards across Delta State, ensuring widespread impact and fairness.

Hon. Okonta highlighted that since the start of Governor Oborevwori’s administration, about 266,000 Deltans have benefitted from various social investment programs, including women and youth empowerment schemes, business support initiatives, and skills development programs.

Describing the widows’ scheme as a “historic milestone,” Okonta praised the Governor’s compassion and resolve to make the government “a father to widows and a pillar of support to the poor.”

He also commended the First Lady, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, for her consistent advocacy on behalf of widows, calling her “a shining example of compassion.”

Sharing their joy, some of the widows present confirmed that payments had already commenced. Mrs. Ejiro Elloh, from Ethiope East LGA, expressed joy at receiving her stipend, urging massive support for the Governor’s administration.

Others, including Mrs. Christiana Akaluzia, Mrs. Elizabeth Mukoro, and Mrs. Mercy Ololo, also lauded the initiative, describing it as life-changing and a source of renewed hope.

They agreed that with the launch of the Widows’ Welfare Scheme, Delta State has once again positioned itself as a leader in pro-people governance, setting a benchmark for inclusivity and compassionate leadership across Nigeria

APC Calls for Cancellation of Kano Bye-elections, Citing Widespread Violence

ABUJA, Nigeria — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately cancel the bye-elections for the Shanono/Bagwai state constituency and the rerun election in the Ghari constituency, both in Kano State.

In a statement signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC alleged that the elections were marred by “widespread extreme violence and election disruption by armed thugs.”

A New Era of Leadership for the Ika People’s Congress

Dear Esteemed Members of the Ika People’s Congress (IPC),

My name is Agboje Egbonimali Shadrack. I am a dedicated son of Ika land. I am seeking your support to serve as the next Exco Chairman of the Ika People’s Congress, and I do so with a deep sense of commitment and responsibility.

The IPC was founded on a noble and visionary purpose: to unify our people and forge a strong, collective voice that holds the government accountable and safeguards the interests of Ndi Ika. This legacy is not only worth preserving—it demands bold leadership, renewed energy, and a clear, actionable direction.

Nigeria’s New Tax Legislation: A Strategic Shift to Reshape Economic Participation

Agboje Chuks

Nigeria is poised for one of its most comprehensive fiscal reforms in decades with the enactment of the new Nigeria Tax Act, a unified and far-reaching overhaul of the nation’s tax architecture. Scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, this legislation marks a pivotal step in the country’s pursuit of economic modernization, social equity, and long-term fiscal sustainability.

By consolidating tax laws, streamlining administration, expanding the tax base, and supporting small businesses, the reform aims to tackle persistent issues such as weak revenue generation, widespread informality, and regional imbalances in development.

This is why this article explores the core components of the new tax framework, highlights its anticipated benefits, and examines the key conditions for its successful implementation, with the expectation of a life-changing economic boom in the coming years.

A Unified and Modern Tax System

A defining feature of the 2025 tax reform is the unification of more than twenty previously fragmented tax laws, including the Companies Income Tax Act, Value Added Tax (VAT) Act, and Petroleum Profits Tax Act, into a single, comprehensive piece of legislation.

This consolidation streamlines the legal landscape, eliminates inconsistencies, and substantially reduces compliance burdens for both taxpayers and regulatory bodies.

To support this new structure, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has been replaced by a newly established central authority, the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS). The NRS is now responsible for administering all federal-level taxes, including royalties and import VAT, thereby eliminating jurisdictional overlaps and strengthening revenue collection.

The reform also adopts a digital-first approach to tax administration. It introduces mandatory electronic invoicing, real-time VAT monitoring, a unified Tax Identification Number (TIN) system, and fully integrated online filing platforms. These innovations aim to cut down on bureaucratic inefficiencies, enhance accountability, and curb corruption within the tax system.

Social Equity and Relief for the Majority

Against a backdrop of widespread poverty and persistent inequality, the 2025 tax reform introduces a range of socially progressive measures designed to ease the financial burden on low-income earners.

One of the most significant changes is the Personal Income Tax (PIT) exemption for individuals earning below ₦800,000 annually (approximately ₦66,000 per month). This provision effectively removes a significant portion of Nigeria’s workforce from the PIT net, offering meaningful relief to millions of citizens.

In addition, the reform establishes a progressive PIT structure where higher tax rates up to 25%, are applied only to top earners with annual incomes exceeding ₦50 million. This approach ensures a fairer distribution of tax responsibilities, compelling wealthier individuals to contribute a greater share to national revenue.

The reform also preserves VAT exemptions on essential goods and services such as basic food items, healthcare, education, public transport, and residential rent.

By exempting a large portion of household consumption from VAT, the reform shields vulnerable populations from the adverse effects of inflation and rising living costs.

Empowering Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)

SMEs, which represent a large portion of Nigeria’s informal sector, are key beneficiaries of the new tax reform. The tax-free threshold for qualifying businesses has been raised from ₦25 million to ₦50 million in annual turnover, while the asset limit has been increased to ₦250 million.

Businesses within this category are now exempted from multiple tax obligations, including Companies Income Tax (CIT), Capital Gains Tax (CGT), and Value Added Tax (VAT).

These measures not only ease the administrative and financial burden on micro and small businesses but also encourage formalization by making compliance more attractive and less costly.

Furthermore, the reform extends specific tax incentives to startups and professionals in the tech industry to foster innovation and boost youth employment.

Rationalized Tax Burden for Large Corporations

For larger businesses, the 2025 tax reform introduces a more streamlined, predictable, and investor-friendly framework. The Companies Income Tax (CIT) rate, which had long stood at 30%, will be reduced to 27.5% in 2025, with a further cut to 25% by 2026.

This phased reduction brings Nigeria in line with global tax standards and significantly enhances the country’s appeal to both domestic and international investors.

A key innovation in the new framework is the merging of multiple sector-specific levies into a single, unified Development Levy. Beginning at 4% in 2025, this levy consolidates previously separate charges, such as the Education Tax, into one simplified contribution.

It is expected to decline to 2% by 2030, offering businesses greater cost predictability and reducing administrative complexity.

In terms of capital taxation, the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) for corporate entities will rise to 30% starting in 2026. However, the law preserves strategic exemptions for certain categories of transactions, including gains from the sale of residential properties and compensation for personal injuries under ₦50 million.

Expanding the Tax Base and Strengthening Public Revenue

A central pillar of the 2025 tax reform is the broadening of Nigeria’s historically narrow tax base. To advance this objective, the reform mandates the compulsory reporting of high-value bank transactions exceeding ₦25 million, specifically targeting undisclosed income and tax evasion.

In tandem with this, the reform revises the VAT revenue-sharing formula to strengthen the fiscal capacity of subnational governments.

Under the new arrangement, 10% of VAT proceeds will go to the federal government, while 55% is allocated to state governments and 35% to local government councils.

Notably, up to 30% of the overall VAT pool will now be distributed based on each state’s VAT generation performance, creating a performance-driven model that encourages states to enhance their tax collection systems and stimulate local economic activity.

Challenges and Considerations for Implementation

While the 2025 tax reform holds substantial promise, its successful implementation is not without significant challenges. This is because regional equity concerns remain a key point of contention, particularly among northern states that fear the revised, performance-based VAT allocation formula could widen existing developmental gaps.

In response, lawmakers have proposed a 30% cap on performance-weighted VAT allocation to strike a balance between efficiency and equity.

Equally pressing is the issue of digital infrastructure readiness. The reform’s reliance on electronic invoicing, real-time VAT tracking, and integrated digital platforms demands robust technological systems, reliable connectivity, and strong data governance, all of which are still evolving across much of the country.

Furthermore, the reform’s legitimacy and effectiveness will hinge on public trust and stakeholder engagement. Critics have argued that the process was rushed and insufficiently consultative, raising concerns about long-term acceptance and compliance.

Ultimately, the success of the reform will rest on the government’s ability to ensure inclusive dialogue, transparent implementation, and capacity-building at all levels. Sustained political will, institutional coordination, and investment in digital and human infrastructure will be essential to translate this bold fiscal vision into lasting economic progress.

Conclusion: A Balanced Path to Sustainable Growth

The 2025 Nigerian Tax Reform is not merely a legislative update; it represents a bold strategic shift toward inclusive economic growth, formalization of the informal sector, and long-term fiscal resilience.

By consolidating fragmented tax laws, integrating cutting-edge digital tools, and embedding socially responsive policies, the reform tackles entrenched inefficiencies while safeguarding the welfare of low-income citizens.

If implemented with transparency and institutional integrity, this reform could become a turning point in Nigeria’s economic trajectory, showcasing the possibility to alleviate poverty, stabilize consumer prices, stimulate entrepreneurship, and redefine fiscal federalism in favor of both performance and equity.

More than a policy initiative, it lays the foundation for a fairer, more accountable, and economically dynamic Nigeria, one where prosperity is more evenly distributed, and governance is strengthened through sustainable revenue generation.

What do you think will be the biggest challenge in implementing this new tax system in Nigeria?

The biggest challenge in implementing Nigeria’s new tax system will likely be the lack of robust digital and physical infrastructure, combined with low public trust and a historical lack of political will for systemic change.

While the legislation mandates a digital-first approach with e-invoicing and integrated online platforms, the reality on ground is that large parts of the country still face unreliable electricity, poor internet connectivity, and limited access to technology.

This could create a significant barrier to compliance, especially for SMEs and individuals in rural or underserved areas, effectively undermining the goal of broadening the tax base.

Furthermore, a deep-seated lack of public trust in government and tax authorities, coupled with concerns about the transparency and accountability of how tax revenues are spent, could lead to widespread resistance and non-compliance.

The success of this reform hinges not just on the law itself, but on the public’s willingness to participate.

Without a concerted effort to build public confidence, by availing Nigerians of the importance of this reform through the National and State Orientation Agencies, engaging stakeholders in an inclusive manner, and investing in the required

infrastructure, the reform may fail to achieve it’s transformative potential.

Oborevwori to Flag Off Widows Welfare Scheme for 10,000 Beneficiaries

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon.
Sheriff Oborevwori will on Monday, August 18, 2025, officially flag off the Delta State Widows Welfare Scheme, with 10,000 beneficiaries expected to benefit from the initiative.

The ceremony, scheduled to hold at the Dome Event Centre, Asaba, will commence at 10:00 a.m.

Executive Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment and Coordinator of the scheme, Chief Isioma Okonta, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists in Asaba on Wednesday.

According to Okonta, the programme was part of the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of widows across the state, providing them with financial support and other empowerment packages to enhance their livelihoods.

He added that the initiative aligns with the state’s broader social investment agenda, aimed at cushioning economic hardship and fostering inclusive growth.

The event is expected to attract government officials, stakeholders in social welfare, and representatives of various women groups across Delta State.

Mallam El-Rufai’s infantile politics, real threat to Nigeria s progress ~ APC

The ruling All Progressives Congress, APC has said that Mallam El-Rufai’s infantile politics is the real threat to Nigeria’s progress.

The APC in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Barr Felix Morka said, “Since his failed bid for a ministerial appointment, former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has gone into a political tailspin. His speedy fall from commanding heights to the political clown he has become needs forensic study. His attack of President Bola Tinubu’s administration as incompetent, clannish and undeserving of a second term, at a meeting in Sokoto on Saturday, August 2, 2025, is yet another outburst of a waspish politician.

The party cnoted, El-Rufai and his partners in African Democratic Congress (ADC) are the most confused, clueless, rudderless and pitiful opposition politicians our country has ever known. They bring nothing to the political table except their oversized ego, wild entitlement mentality, obscene desperation and predatory presidential ambitions.

Accordin to the party, “Beyond baseless headline attacks against the present administration and the All Progressives Congress (APC), El-Rufai and cohorts have not presented and, quite frankly, cannot present policy prescriptions with potential for more effectiveness than those already being implemented by the Tinubu administration, with strong indicators of success.

The party added, “All three major contestants in the 2023 presidential election campaigned to remove fuel subsidy and harmonize multiple foreign exchange regimes in recognition of the urgency and seriousness of the country’s economic challenges. Upon his election and inauguration, President Tinubu swiftly implemented policy reforms as he promised.

After their crushing defeat at the polls, Atiku and Obi, seemingly, recanted their policy re-form positions in order to justify sitting shamelessly at the table of hypocrisy and hurling invectives at President Tinubu and APC for implementing reform policies they also promised Nigerians.

“If El-Rufai and his cohorts detest the administration’s policy reforms as much as they claim, why have they not presented policy proposals to restore fuel subsidy as it was and return the country to the ruinous era of fixing Naira’s value and operating multiple foreign exchange regimes that fed the greedy and insatiable appetite of the likes of El-Eufai, Atiku, Obi and Rotimi Amaechi for decades? And while at it, to tell Nigerians how they would finance the resultant massive deficit that would ground the economy to a devastating crumble.

The party pointed, “El-Rufai’s claims are as mischievous as they are hollow. With a steady rebound in our economy and other indicators of verifiable progress in all sectors, including the ongoing revolution in agriculture; high performing stock exchange market; improved power generation and transmission; increased oil production at nearly 1.8mbpd; consistent trade surpluses; unprecedented infrastructural development – with 420 roads and bridges underway; strategic retooling of our military capabilities with 49 advanced aircrafts; unprecedented NELFUND for students, with fast declining inflation and rising consumer confidence, and more, El-Rufai’s verdict of “poor governance and failed leadership” falls flat as no more than the rants of an inconsolable sulker.

The rejection of El-Rufai as a Minister cannot justify his allegation of clannishness against the administration. A senseless claim like that can only come from someone who haughtily equates his selfish interest with the interest of an entire ethnic nationality. President Tinubu is easily one of the most detribalized and patriotic Nigerians alive. No tribe, ethnic or religious group has been sidelined like El-Rufai wants Nigerians to believe.

For a former Governor who left a sordid legacy of obnoxious marginalisation of ethnic and religious minorities in Southern Kaduna; who sponsored sectarian violence and weaponised demolitions against innocent citizens; and hung a debt profile of N284 billion on tax payers, according to the Debt Management Office (DMO), El-Rufai is the poster child of bad governance and failed leadership.

It is now clear to all Nigerians that El-Rufai and his cohorts in ADC are on a mission to upend the presidential rotational principle designed to promote national unity and cohesion in the country through the imposition of Atiku as presidential candidate of ADC in the middle of a southern presidency rotation.

It was Atiku’s selfish and obdurate refusal to respect the rotation principle during the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential primary election that directly resulted in PDP’s virtual cremation. El-Rufai and Atiku want to do to Nigeria what Atiku did to PDP. El-Rufai, Atiku and the hijacked ADC constitute a clear and present threat to the unity, peace and progress of Nigeria.

Nigeria is witnessing an era of visionary and transformational leadership under President Bola Tinubu. The administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda has fundamentally repositioned our nation for steady growth and progress.

“We are confident that Nigerians will sustain their support for our great Party and renew President Tinubu’s mandate come 2027, to consolidate on what now looks to be the most outstanding first term record of achievement of any President in our nation’s history”.

PETER OBI’S ONE-TERM VOW: A SACROSANCT SCAM CRAFTED TO RECEIVE

Egajivwie Frank Odiri

When Peter Obi loudly proclaims that he will only serve one term of four years if elected president, it sounds virtuous—until you examine the dangerous history of Nigerian politicians who make sacred vows only to break them at the altar of ambition.

Nigerians have heard these kinds of promises before—and been betrayed by them.

The Jonathan Parallel: A Broken Northern Pact

In the buildup to the 2011 election, President Goodluck Jonathan gave a gentleman’s assurance to Northern political leaders that he would not seek re-election in 2015. That promise was meant to respect the North’s rotational expectation after the death of President Yar’Adua. Like Obi today, Jonathan spoke of national unity, sacrifice, and transitional leadership.

But by 2014, all that changed. He reneged, contested, and plunged Nigeria into one of its most heated political crises—fracturing alliances, undermining trust, and fueling long-standing regional suspicions that continue to haunt the country today.

Now, Peter Obi is borrowing from the same playbook: package a one-term promise as a noble sacrifice, when in reality it is a strategic seduction—especially aimed at the skeptical North. It’s a move to appear as a safe transitional candidate, a Southern leader who won’t “hold on to power” for long. But history warns us: once power is tasted, the vow quickly becomes inconvenient noise.

The Ojukwu Betrayal: Another Sacred Promise Broken

Peter Obi talks about integrity, yet he famously broke his vow to the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu—the man who gave him his political platform under APGA. Obi swore—yes, swore—he would never abandon the party Ojukwu labored to build. It was a solemn pledge rooted in loyalty and brotherhood.

But as soon as his ambition outgrew APGA, Obi defected to the PDP. Then, when he couldn’t secure the presidential ticket there, he jumped again, this time to the Labour Party.

How does a man who broke his vow to the dead now expect us to believe he will keep a vow to the living?

It is not just hypocrisy—it is political fraud wrapped in moral packaging.

A Pattern of Deceit, Dressed as Purity

Let’s be clear: Peter Obi’s “One-Term” pledge is not a moral stand; it is a desperate political tactic. He is saying to the North: “Don’t fear my presidency—I’ll step aside quickly and return power to you.” It is a code-switch disguised as a national vision.

But just like Jonathan, who once claimed not to be interested in extending his stay, Obi too will find a justification to stay beyond four years. He will cite unfinished reforms, the will of the people, the need for continuity—the usual excuses of political incumbents.

Nigerians must remember: every president who broke a promise once said, “Trust me.”

Conclusion: Don’t Be Deceived Twice

Peter Obi says his vow is sacrosanct. But so was his vow to Ojukwu. So was Jonathan’s promise to the North. So are many things politicians say when they are still begging for votes.

When the cameras are off and the real game begins, they all reveal the same hunger for power—masked by borrowed humility.

The North must not be swayed by temporary assurances.

The South must not be blinded by emotional loyalty.

And Nigeria must not, once again, walk into a well-polished trap.

Peter Obi is not different. He is only better branded. But a lie wrapped in soft tone and clean shirts is still a lie.

Trust, once broken, is hard to rebuild. And Obi has already broken it—twice.

USE YOUR INFLUENCE TO FOSTER UNITY, NOT DIVISION; VERIFY BEFORE AMPLIFYING~ Tinubu Tells Social Media Users

PRESIDENT TINUBU TO NEW MEDIA INFLUENCERS: USE YOUR INFLUENCE TO FOSTER UNITY, NOT DIVISION; VERIFY BEFORE AMPLIFYING

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday called on young Nigerians active in the digital media space to harness their platforms as instruments of national progress.
He urged them to build businesses that create employment, produce content that reflects unifying values, and serve as positive catalysts for societal development. He emphasised the critical importance of verifying information before amplifying it.
At the opening of the Progressives Digital Media Summit, themed “Unveiling the Critical Role of New Media in National Development,” President Tinubu said:
“Your generation has recognised this moment. You are using digital tools to innovate, educate, and demand accountability. But as your influence grows, so must our collective sense of purpose and responsibility.
“I urge you to continue using digital platforms to advance our nation’s progress. Build businesses that employ others. Create content that uplifts and unites. Use your influence to foster unity, not division.”
He commended the creativity and resilience of Nigeria’s youth as he described digital media as a driving force of economic and social transformation.
It is no longer merely an accessory to life, he said.
“From developing innovative platforms to building vibrant online communities, you are demonstrating the determination that is redefining what is possible for this country.
“You are not waiting for the future; you are building it. Digital media is now a central driver of economic growth, civic engagement, and social change. It broadens representation for those previously unheard.”
The President said his administration is committed to supporting digital innovation through the National Digital Innovation Fund and policies that promote a thriving startup ecosystem. However, he warned practitioners to remain vigilant against disinformation and cyber threats.

Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, praised digital media practitioners who have consistently stood up for Nigeria and projected the nation positively on the global stage:
“You are the vanguard of a reborn Nigeria, determined to reach for the stars. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, our nation has begun its long-delayed march toward greatness. The road may be challenging, but it is necessary,” he stated.
In a goodwill message, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, highlighted the significance of the Summit. He noted that lessons from recent elections in countries like the U.S. and Germany underscore how digital media have become crucial battlegrounds—beyond mere entertainment—for shaping poll outcomes.
“However, social media is not a fair battleground. As a public square, it is often chaotic and unregulated. Users frequently disregard rules. Divisive content is rampant. Deepfakes and AI-generated content are increasingly used against political opponents. Posts are driven by clicks, not truth or accuracy. Misinformation spreads five times faster than official corrections.” Onanuga observed.
He expressed optimism that the Summit would address these challenges, focusing on strategies to combat fake news and misinformation.
The summit convener, Segun Dada, Special Assistant to the President on New Media, emphasised that in less than a decade, digital media has evolved from a tool of personal connection into a powerful engine for communication, innovation, and influence.
He stressed the importance of harnessing this force for the good of Nigeria while managing inherent risks such as privacy concerns and threats to social cohesion.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
August 1, 2025

Why The Progressive Digital Media Summit Will Change Nigeria’s Economic Narratives

Agboje Chuks

For almost 13 years, I’ve practiced journalism and have come to believe that the media’s power is often misused.

Instead of serving its purpose, strengthening democracy, building hope, and speaking for the underprivileged, it has oftentimes been used to divide people and diminish national unity.

This is why the Progressive Digital Media Summit held today at the State House, was so important.

The event educated users, raised awareness about the misuse of digital platforms, and equipped citizens to combat misinformation.

It provided a crucial opportunity for participants to understand how to leverage new media for positive change.

Going forward, we must use the media to amplify Nigeria’s positive narratives. This we can do by showcasing our nation as an attractive hub for foreign investment and strengthen our economy and increase our GDP and national income.

This can’t be achieved if we fail to harness the enormous power of the media to tell the world about our country’s promise and prosperity.

At the summit, we heard about the positive prospects of government programs and policies, which the media can be used to propagate

The tax reform bill is a case in point that can be amplified.

This is because it is projected to bring significant benefits to Nigerians, increase our revenue base especially to low-income earners.

We have an opportunity to shape a new narrative for our country, and it starts with how we use digital media.

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