BB Connect

08/11/2025

2025/26
Game of The Season.

Full Time:
◾Basira FC 3 : 1 Mighty Jets FC.
Scorers:
Basira FC - A. Yusuf 6'; 39' P. & Eneji 46'.

Mighty Jets FC - E. Iliya (62' OG)

follow Live broadcast & commentary on NYSC Radio 88.3 FM Abuja

06/11/2025

Meaning of Tax Ombudsman:

A Tax Ombudsman is an independent authority or official appointed to investigate and address complaints made by taxpayers against the Tax department or Tax authorities.

In simple terms:

The Tax Ombudsman helps ensure that taxpayers are ''treated fairly" by tax officials and that their grievances (such as delays, rude behavior, or incorrect tax assessments) are resolved quickly and impartially.

Key Points:
Independent body: The unit works separately from the tax department.

Main role: To handle taxpayer complaints about administrative issues, not about tax law interpretation.

Objective: To promote fairness, transparency, and accountability in tax administration.

Functions may include:

Investigating taxpayer complaints.

Recommending corrective actions.

Advising the tax authority on improving service standards.

06/11/2025

Exemptions

Full List: 50 New Tax Exemptions and Reliefs Nigerians Will Enjoy from January 1, 2026

As part of the Federal Government’s 2024–2026 Fiscal Reform Agenda, Nigerians are set to benefit from a comprehensive tax relief package designed to ease the cost of living, support small businesses, and stimulate inclusive growth.

Below is the itemized list of the 50 tax exemptions and reliefs that will take effect from January 1, 2026, under the new tax reform laws:
1. Individuals earning the national minimum wage or less are fully exempt.

2. Annual gross income up to ₦1,200,000 is exempt.

3. Reduced PAYE tax applies to those earning up to ₦20 million annually.

4. Gifts are exempt from tax.

5. Pension contributions made to a Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) are exempt.

6. Contributions to the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) are exempt.

7. National Housing Fund (NHF) contributions are exempt.

8. Interest on loans used for owner-occupied residential housing is exempt.

9. Life insurance or annuity premiums are exempt.

10. Rent relief of 20% of annual rent (up to ₦500,000) is granted.

11. Pension funds and assets under the Pension Reform Act (PRA) are tax-exempt.

12. Pension, gratuity, or retirement benefits granted under the PRA are exempt.

13. Compensation for loss of employment up to ₦50 million is exempt.

14. Sale of an owner-occupied house qualifies for capital gains tax exemption.

15. Personal effects or chattels worth up to ₦5 million are exempt from capital gains tax.

16. Sale of up to two private vehicles per year enjoys capital gains tax exemption.

17. Gains on shares below ₦150 million per year or gains up to ₦10 million are exempt.

18. Gains on shares above the exemption threshold are exempt if proceeds are reinvested.

19. Capital gains exemptions apply to pension funds, charities, and religious institutions (for non-commercial activities).

20. Small companies with turnover not exceeding ₦100 million and fixed assets not above ₦250 million will pay 0% Companies Income Tax.

21. Eligible labelled startups are fully exempt.

22. Compensation relief grants 50% additional deduction for salary increases, wage awards, or transport subsidies for low-income workers.

23. Employment relief allows 50% deduction for salaries of new employees hired and retained for at least three years.

24. A five-year tax holiday is granted to agricultural businesses (crop production, livestock, dairy, etc.).

25. Gains from investments in labelled startups by venture capitalists, private equity firms, or incubators are exempt.

26. Small companies are exempt from the 4% development levy.

27. Small companies, manufacturers, and agricultural businesses are exempt from withholding tax on their income.

28. Small companies are exempt from withholding tax on payments to their suppliers.

29. Basic food items are subject to 0% VAT.

30. Rent is VAT-free.

31. Education services and materials attract zero-rated VAT.

32. Health and medical services are VAT-exempt or zero-rated.

33. Pharmaceutical products are VAT-exempt or zero-rated.

34. Small companies with turnover of ₦100 million or less are exempt from charging VAT.

35. Diesel, petrol, and solar-power equipment enjoy VAT suspension or exemption.

36. VAT refunds apply on assets and overheads used in producing VATable or zero-rated goods and services.

37. Agricultural inputs such as fertilisers, seeds, seedlings, animal feeds, and live animals are VAT-exempt.

38. Purchase, lease, or hire of agricultural equipment is VAT-exempt.

39. Disability aids such as hearing aids, wheelchairs, and braille materials are VAT-exempt.

40. Shared passenger road transport (non-charter) is VAT-exempt.

41. Electric vehicles and their parts are VAT-exempt.

42. Humanitarian supplies are VAT-exempt.

43. Baby products are VAT-exempt.

44. Sanitary towels, pads, and tampons are VAT-exempt.

45. Land and building transactions enjoy exemption (VAT or Stamp Duty depending on the context).

46. Electronic money transfers below ₦10,000 are exempt from stamp duty.

47. Salary payments are exempt from stamp duty.

48. Intra-bank transfers are exempt from stamp duty.

49. Transfers of government securities or shares are exempt from stamp duty.

50. All documents related to the transfer of stocks and shares are exempt from stamp duties.

These 50 tax exemptions and reliefs reflect the government’s determination to reduce the financial burden on citizens and stimulate growth across key sectors of the economy. President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu ’s administration means well for Nigerians and with sustained reforms like this, the nation is on a clear path to recovery and prosperity.

05/11/2025

Tinubu appoints Dr. John Nwabueze as Nigeria’s first tax ombudsman -

Nairametrics https://share.google/WAlDlBsv0RuLhDSvg

The Federal Government has appointed Dr. John Nwabueze as Nigeria’s first Tax Ombudsman, in line with the provisions of the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025.

A statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the appointment reflects the President’s broader fiscal reform agenda aimed at strengthening public confidence in Nigeria’s revenue system and improving compliance through fairness and due process.

Dr. Nwabueze, who hails from Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State, brings decades of experience spanning tax policy, fiscal reform, and economic governance.

He has served as Managing Partner of a top tax advisory firm, Technical Adviser to the Joint Senate Committees on the Federal Capital Territory and Finance, and Technical Adviser to the Chief Economic Adviser to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, among other roles in the public and private sectors.

The newly appointed ombudsman holds a Doctorate in Public Administration (Finance) from Walden University, Minneapolis, a Master’s degree in Accounting from Strayer University, Washington, D.C., and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Accounting and Mathematics from the University of Jos.

Trusted to deliver

In congratulating Dr. Nwabueze, President Tinubu expressed confidence in his “capacity to discharge the responsibilities of the office with integrity, diligence, and utmost professionalism.”

The Office of the Tax Ombudsman, according to the statement, has been created to strengthen transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s tax system and provide a structured mechanism for fair and impartial resolution of disputes between taxpayers and revenue authorities.

The office will handle complaints related to taxes, levies, regulatory fees, customs duties, excise matters, and related issues, ensuring that disputes are managed efficiently, impartially, and in a non-adversarial manner.

Watchdog to prevent abuse of power

According to the statement, the Tax Ombudsman will also serve as a watchdog to prevent abuse of power and arbitrary decision-making by tax officials. This is expected to enhance taxpayer confidence, reduce litigation, and promote voluntary compliance with Nigeria’s tax laws.

“The creation of this office is a crucial step toward a more transparent and citizen-friendly tax administration,” the statement added. “It provides individuals and businesses a credible platform to seek redress where they believe tax authorities have acted unfairly or outside the law.”

Many have described the establishment of the office as a progressive reform that aligns Nigeria’s tax dispute resolution system with global best practices.

Similar offices exist in several advanced economies, serving as an independent oversight mechanism that balances government revenue collection with taxpayer rights.

Immediate task

Dr. Nwabueze’s immediate tasks will include setting up the institutional framework of the new office, developing standard operating procedures for complaint resolution, and working closely with agencies such as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigeria Customs Service, and state revenue authorities to streamline processes and improve coordination.

The move comes at a time when Nigeria is deepening its fiscal reforms under President Tinubu’s administration, focusing on broadening the tax base, reducing leakages, and improving service delivery across all revenue-generating institutions.

By establishing the Office of the Tax Ombudsman, the government aims to institutionalize fairness and rebuild trust between taxpayers and tax authorities, an essential step toward achieving sustainable economic growth and improving Nigeria’s investment climate.

What you should know

In September, Nairametrics reported that Nigeria’s tax reform laws have been officially published in the government gazette, marking a major step in overhauling the country’s fiscal framework.

The reforms, signed into law on June 26, 2025, establish a new foundation for taxation, administration, and revenue collection in Africa’s largest economy.

Confirming the publication on his official X handle, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, noted that the new laws would modernize Nigeria’s tax system, improve compliance, and create a more business-friendly environment.

The Federal Government has appointed Dr. John Nwabueze as Nigeria’s first Tax Ombudsman, in line with the provisions of the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025. A statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the appoi...

05/11/2025

Team Nigeria switches to “WESPAC mode” as scrabble camp ignites in Lagos

Team Nigeria has officially gone into battle mode ahead of the 2025 World English Scrabble Players Association Championship (WESPAC), with camp opening in Lagos on Tuesday and the energy is electric.

Fifteen elite players and a crack technical crew have gathered under one roof, sharpening their wordplay and focus for the showdown in Accra, Ghana, where over 30 nations will lock horns for global glory.

Among the early arrivals are veterans and rising stars alike, Emmanuel Umujose, Larry Etuwa, Ben Quickpen, Adebola Samuel, and the ever-charismatic Chinedu “Sidespin” Thorpe, who was the first to check in, said, “this is splendid accommodation. Thank you, NSF. I’ve just checked into 2B,” Sidespin's quipped, his trademark humor lighting up the camp.

Technical head and newly elected Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF) board member, Khaleel Adedeji, wasted no time firing up his charges.

“Let’s make sure everyone gets in by tomorrow so we can kick off properly, solid training, team planning, and some real bonding time before WESPAC,” he said, rallying his squad with the zeal of a general.

“Champions are made when no one is watching,” he thundered.

“We’re not just preparing for games; we’re building chemistry, focus, and that winning spirit. Let’s show up ready, hungry, and united, WESPAC mode activated.”

NSF President, Bright Idahosa, confirmed that the contingent will depart for Accra on Sunday, determined to reclaim global dominance.

Nigeria’s scrabble warriors have long been the wordsmiths of the world, from Wellington Jighere’s historic World Championship win in 2015 to the team’s gritty second-place finish at the last edition in Las Vegas despite a depleted roster.

This time, the mission is clear, bring the title home.

As the tiles clatter and dictionaries whisper in the Lagos camp, one thing is certain, Team Nigeria isn’t just spelling words; they’re spelling destiny.

02/11/2025

https://thenationonlineng.net/resident-doctors-begin-indefinite-nationwide-strike-over-unmet-demands/

The Nation Newspaper Resident doctors begin indefinite nationwide strike over unmet demands

25/10/2025

MADE!

Rivers United beat Black Bulls 3-1 (3-2 agg) with goals from Wasiu Falolu, Maclyn Biokpo, and Timothy Zachariah, securing their maiden CAF Champions League group stage spot!

📽️ Enjoy the goals highlight

25/10/2025

A MESSAGE OF GRATITUDE FROM DR. PHILIP NONGU

In the wake of the recent directive by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, announcing the dissolution of the Management and Board of Lobi Stars Football Club, I deem it most appropriate to publicly express my heartfelt appreciation.

First and foremost, I wish to profoundly thank His Excellency for the rare privilege and confidence reposed in me to serve as Chairman of our beloved club. It was indeed an honour to contribute to the growth of sports in Benue State under your purposeful and reform-driven administration. Your commitment to discipline, transparency, and accountability has continued to redefine governance in our state, and I remain immensely proud to have been part of that vision.

To the teeming supporters and loyal fans of Lobi Stars FC, your passion, loyalty, and unyielding belief in the club were my greatest source of strength. I take responsibility for the club’s relegation on behalf of the board members and management. I also wish to advise those who will be appointed to run the affairs of the club to work together as a team to ensure effective performance, rather than tearing each other down simply because they are not at the helm of affairs. Leadership, after all, comes from God.

To the players, technical crew, and administrative staff, I extend my deepest gratitude for your professionalism, commitment, and resilience throughout my tenure. Leadership is transient, but the legacy of collective dedication endures. You all contributed immensely to whatever successes we recorded.

As I take a bow, I reaffirm my unshaken loyalty to His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, and the government of Benue State. I remain fully committed to supporting every initiative of this administration, especially in advancing youth and sports development.

Furthermore, I pledge my total support and cooperation to whoever is appointed to lead Lobi Stars next. Leadership is a continuum, and progress can only be achieved when we all work in harmony toward a common goal, the restoration of Lobi Stars’ glory and the projection of Benue’s image through football.

May God bless the Government of Benue State.
May God bless His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.
May God bless Lobi Stars Football Club.
May God bless the good people of Benue State.

Dr. Philip Nongu
Former Chairman,
Lobi Stars Football Club, Makurdi.

23/10/2025

Whom It May Concern

ARCEDEM, Radio Nigeria Land, 4 Others In Oyo Not For...*
UNCATEGORIZED
*JUST IN: ARCEDEM, Radio Nigeria Land, 4 Others In Oyo Not For Sale — FG Warns Buyers*
By Oyoinsight Editor - October 22, 2025 110 0

The federal government has warned residents against buying some of its properties in Oyo State, warning that they are not available for sale.

The federal ministry of housing and urban development issued this warning on Wednesday in a statement signed by its Permanent Secretary, Shuaib Belgore.

The statement read:

“The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Mabushi, Abuja hereby gives notice to the public that the under listed properties located at various places in Oyo State are properties of the Federal Government, its International Partners and its Ministries, Departments and Agencies and the said properties are not for sale.

1. Africa Regional Centre for Engineering Design and Manufacturing
(ARCEDEM), property measuring approximately 73.954 hectares of land, lying and situate along Iwo Road, Olodo Lagelu Local Government Area, Ibadan, Oyo State.

2. Federal Low-Cost Estate and Site and Services, measuring approximately 51.982 hectares of land, lying and situate at Idi-Ayure, Oyo State.

3. Federal Housing Scheme program, measuring approximately 90.61 hectares of land, lying and situate at Saki, Oyo State.

4.National Strategic Grain Reserve Programme, Federal Ministry of Agriculture property, measuring approximately 10.002 hectares of land, lying and situate at lyande Church Area, Ibadan, Oyo State.

5. Radio Nigeria Property, measuring approximately 4.89 hectares of land, lying and situate at Basorun, Ibadan, Oyo State.
→ 6. National Horticultural Research
Institute Property, located at Ajalubosa Alesinloye Area, Ibadan, Oyo State.

“That any person or entity attempting to purchase or might have purchased or derived title from anybody/entity or negotiate the sale of these properties or any part thereof will be considered to be engaging in an unauthorised dealings and will be doing or might have done so at his/her own peril.”

22/10/2025

News

Kano Pillars FC Receive Three Brand New Buses From Kano State Government

The Kano State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has presented three brand new buses to the state’s pride, Kano Pillars FC, to ease the team’s movement during the ongoing 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season.

The vehicles include a 29-seater luxurious Marcopolo bus for the players, a Hummer bus and a Sharon.

While handing over the keys and documents of the new vehicles on behalf of the Governor, the Secretary to the State Government, Malam Ibrahim Umar Farouk, called on the sports loving youths of Kano to remain law abiding and avoid any act of violence that could tarnish the image of the state. He noted that the gesture reflects His Excellency’s deep passion for youth empowerment and sports development.

He also commended the State Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Hon. Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, describing him as a dedicated and hardworking leader committed to the welfare of the youth.

In his remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, expressed gratitude to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for what he described as a milestone achievement that will greatly improve the lives of the players. He also urged supporters of Sai Masu Gida to continue showing discipline and avoid any behaviour that could hinder the progress of the club.

Reacting to the gesture, the General Manager of Kano Pillars FC, Ahmed Musa, MON, OON, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Governor for his support and goodwill.

He described the donation as the beginning of greater things to come for the club and assured that the players are determined to work hard to restore the glory of both the club and the state. The Super Eagles captain also appealed to the state government to immortalize the club’s iconic captain and longest serving player, Rabiu Ali, in recognition of his outstanding service and contributions to Nigerian football, describing him as one of the finest players ever to grace the Nigeria Premier Football League.

Meanwhile, the Sai Masu Gida will host Niger Tornadoes of Minna in their Matchday 10 fixture of the Nigeria Premier Football League this Saturday at their adopted home ground, the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina.

19/10/2025

The Management of Kano Pillars FC wishes to inform our esteemed supporters and the general public that the Club’s Technical Adviser, Ogenyi Evans, and Chief Coach, Ahmed Garba Yaro Yaro, have been suspended with immediate effect following the team’s unsatisfactory performance in the ongoing 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season.

So far, the Sai Masu Gida have played eight matches, recording two wins, two draws, and four losses.

In the interim, former club captain and Assistant Coach, Gambo Muhammad alongside goalkeeping Coach, Suleiman Shuaibu will take charge of the team’s technical duties, while Coach Garzali Muhammad (Kusa) from the Junior Pillars will provide support in an ad-hoc capacity pending further directives.

18/10/2025

CAF Champions League: Black Bulls 1-0 Rivers United (agg 0-1)

Rivers United suffered a 1-0 defeat to Black Bulls FC of Mozambique in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie. Moctar Diallo's strike separated the sides, whipping the ball past Osagie Onisodumeya from close range after a counter-attack in the 50th minute.

The Pride of Rivers team had a positive start in the first half, with Maclyn Biokpo and Ubong Friday coming close to scoring. However, both teams failed to break the deadlock before halftime.

In the second half, Coach Finidi George threw in Timothy Zachariah, Wasiu Falolu, Seyi Oguntayo, and Okon Aniekeme from the bench. Unfortunately, an injury forced Okechukwu Ogbu's replacement by Temple Emekayi, but it was too little, too late.

Team News
Rivers United fielded a strong side for the first leg, with Okon Aniekeme starting in place of Wisdom Samuel, and there were just three more changes from the side that beat FC Les Aigles du Congo 1-0 the last round as Osagie Onisodumeya continued in goal.

For Black Bulls FC, Delta state-born Rume Akporoh started in midfield and playing against a club from Nigeria was very impressive.

What's Next?
Rivers United now have a week off before the return leg against Black Bulls FC at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.