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Niger Delta’s Stance on Tax Reform: Support with Caution – INC President
By Perez Bibaikefie
The ongoing debate over Nigeria’s new tax reform has sparked diverse opinions, and the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has weighed in on the issue. Speaking at Gatwick Airport, London, Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba, INC President, highlighted the benefits and risks of the reform for the Ijaw nation and the Niger Delta as a whole.
Prof. Okaba described the reforms as significant, particularly within the context of longstanding calls for resource control and management. He noted that the reform’s implications extend beyond tax policy, addressing “core demands for equity, justice, and prosperity for a people who have endured deplorable conditions despite being the primary source of Nigeria’s oil and gas wealth.”
The Niger Delta, he emphasized, is rich in more than just hydrocarbons. “Our region also boasts of agricultural and eco-tourism resources that have supported industrial development globally,” Okaba said. He praised the reform’s objectives, which include improving tax collection, reducing evasion, offering tax relief to small businesses, simplifying VAT with exemptions for basic food and healthcare, and curbing illicit financial flows. “These measures have the potential to transform the nation,” he stated.
Okaba argued that the reform, if implemented effectively, could reshape revenue allocation from natural resources among federal, state, and local governments. “For fiscal federalism to be truly impactful, states must control their resources while paying appropriate taxes to the central government,” he explained. This arrangement, he asserted, would empower local communities to invest in critical areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and environmental management.
Such reforms, he added, could address longstanding issues of poverty, inequality, and marginalization in the Niger Delta. “This approach ensures that our people directly benefit from the wealth generated by oil and gas extraction,” he noted.
However, Okaba warned against potential challenges, emphasizing the need for fairness in implementation. “Balancing the divergent interests across regions is crucial. Equity, justice, and transparency must guide this reform to ensure its success,” he cautioned.
While Prof. Okaba acknowledged the reform’s transformative potential, he stressed the importance of vigilance. The Niger Delta’s support for the reform, he concluded, hinges on its fair and equitable application, ensuring that the region’s interests are protected in the spirit of national progress.
By: Divine Perezide
In a heartfelt message brimming with love and admiration, Ambassador Tom EBIAKPO WILLY has extended warm birthday wishes to his beautiful twin sisters, Ebikabo-ere and Ebisine , describing them as “precious gifts-radiant, loving, and full of grace.”
The distinguished Ambassador expressed deep affection and gratitude for the joy and light the twins bring into their family and the world at large. His message celebrated their positive influence, highlighting the beauty, kindness, and grace that define their lives.
In his touching note, Amb. Willy prayed for God’s supernatural blessings upon them, asking that they be favoured with long life, abundant grace, and unending joy. He further declared that their paths would continue to shine ever brighter, with every desire of their hearts manifesting in overflowing testimonies.
The emotional tribute concluded with words of encouragement and love, as he urged his twin sisters to “keep shinning beautifully,” a testament to the strong bond and affection that unite the strong bond and affection that unite the family.
The birthday message from from their big brother, Amb. Tom Ebiakpo Willy radiates as a glowing celebration of sisterhood from a loving brother, divine favour, and enduring family love.
By: Derick Peretengboro
A respected politicalleaderin BurutuLocalGovernmentArea, Rt. Hon. Chief Joseph Asiaye Alubeze has joined family, friends, and associates to celebrate Amb. Engr. Fred Sheriff Junior Oborevwori, son of the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on the occasion of his birthday.
In a congratulatory message released to newsmen in Burutu, Alubeze described the celebrant as one who has consistently demonstrated passion and commitment to the development and empowerment of young people across Delta State.
According to him, Amb. Fred Sheriff Junior Oborevwori has positively impacted countless youths in the state, providing them with opportunities and inspiration to thrive. He lauded him for his role in amplifying and driving the MORE Agenda of Governor Oborevwori, ensuring that its benefits are felt at the grassroots.
“On this special day, I, Rt. Hon. Chief Joseph Asiaye Alubeze, celebrate you and wish you many more fruitful years ahead in good health, joy, and greater accomplishments. May your path continue to shine brighter as you inspire others.
Happy birthday, Amb. Engr. Fred Oborovweri Jnr”.
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Tinubu Appointee, Madam Beauty Warejuwowei Celebrates Dr. Dennis Otuaro on His Birth Anniversary
By: Divine Perezide
Warrri, Delta State – Warri-based business magnate and Delta APC leader, Madam Beauty Warejuwowei, has joined well-wishers across the Niger Delta to celebrate Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, PhD, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), on the occasion of his birthday.
In a heartfelt felicitation signed on behalf of herself, her family, and political and business associates, Madam Beauty praised Dr. Otuaro’s leadership qualities and selfless commitment to peace and development of the region.
“Your visionary, unwavering dedication, and commitment to peace and development in the Niger Delta continue to inspire many. As you mark this special day, I pray for your good health, wisdom, and divine strength to enable you to continue your noble service to our people and the nation at large. Happy Birthday, and many happy returns,” she declared.
Madam Beauty Warejuwowei, who also serves in the President Tinubu’s administration as a Member of Governing Council and Board of Trustees of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYREP), noted that Dr. Otuaro’s efforts in steering the Presidential Amnesty Programme have further strengthened Federal initiatives aimed at fostering stability and empowering ex-agitators and youths across the oil-rich region.
She reiterated her confidence that with leaders like Otuaro, the Niger Delta will continue to witness peace,development, and sustained progress.