President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to go ahead with the implementation of the newly signed tax laws, rejecting calls for the reform process to be suspended amid public debates over certain provisions. In a statement released on Tuesday, the President said the rollout of the tax reforms would proceed as scheduled, noting that some of the laws took effect on June 26, 2025, while others are set to begin on January 1, 2026. He described the reforms as a rare and historic opportunity to build a more equitable, competitive and sustainable tax system for the country. Tinubu emphasised that the reforms were not aimed at increasing the tax burden on Nigerians, but at overhauling the existing framework to improve efficiency, harmonise tax administration and uphold the dignity of citizens, while reinforcing trust between the government and the people. “The new tax laws are not intended to raise taxes. They are designed to reset the system structurally, promote harmonisation, protect dignity and strengthen the social contract,” the President stated. While acknowledging the ongoing public discussions and concerns over perceived changes to some sections of the laws, Tinubu said no fundamental issues had been identified that would warrant a pause or reversal of the reform agenda. He warned against hasty or reactionary decisions, stressing that public confidence is built through steady and well-considered policies over time. The President called on all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, noting that the reform programme had moved decisively into the delivery stage. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to due process and respect for laws duly passed and assented to. He also assured Nigerians that the Presidency would collaborate closely with the National Assembly to promptly address any challenges that may arise during implementation. “I want to assure Nigerians that the Federal Government will always act in the overall public interest to deliver a tax system that promotes prosperity, fairness and shared responsibility,” Tinubu said. The statement was signed by the President in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Nutritionists have recommended that school-aged children can safely consume two eggs per day to meet their growing protein needs and support brain development. They noted that protein in eggs is of high quality because it contains all essential amino acids, is easily digested, and is fully utilised by children to meet their protein needs. In exclusive interviews with PUNCH Healthwise, the registered dietitian-nutritionists further emphasised that the consumption of eggs helps to reduce malnutrition in children and urged parents to ensure it is included in their children’s meals daily, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. The experts added that parents should mainly give their children boiled or poached eggs, as these methods retain most of the nutrients without added fats, making them the healthiest options. According to the World Health Organisation, malnutrition refers to deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and nutrients, covering two broad groups of conditions: undernutrition, which includes stunting, wasting, underweight, and micronutrient deficiencies; and overweight, obesity, and diet-related noncommunicable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. The WHO disclosed that about 150 million children under the age of five globally are stunted, with Nigeria having the second-highest burden of stunted children. The United Nations Children’s Fund says malnutrition is a violation of children’s rights, while good nutrition sets children on the path to grow, develop, learn and reach their full potential. The Paediatric Association of Nigeria also said that about 12.3 million Nigerian children suffer from chronic malnutrition, out of which 300,000 are at risk of dying. THENEWSCREDIT had reported that many parents, due to rising food prices, could no longer afford to give their children eggs, one of the cheapest and most commonly available sources of protein. The price of eggs began to rise in late 2023, increasing from about N2,600 to N6,000 per crate. Currently, a crate sells for around N6,500, while a single egg costs between N250 and N300. Commenting on the matter, a registered dietitian nutritionist and former Director of Nutrition Services, Osun State, Mr James Oloyede, stated that eggs help to reduce malnutrition in children. James Oloyede James Oloyede “The protein in eggs is of good quality as it contains all the essential amino acids, easily digested and fully utilised by children, helping to meet their protein requirements. The egg protein is far better in quality and utilisation than any other animal or plant proteins,” Oloyede stated. Continuing, he said, “This is because of all meat proteins, egg has the highest quality in addition to certain vitamins, especially vitamins A, D, B12, E, minerals such as selenium and phosphorus, whilst it also contains antioxidants that are known to neutralise free radicals that could predispose individuals to certain cancers. Though not generally accepted, studies recently also show that eating eggs may lower the risk of heart disease,” the nutritionist explained. He stated that school-aged children, between five and 12 years, should consume two eggs per day, noting that children less than three years old may consume up to four eggs a week. “Above this age, a child can consume one egg per day, but also as the child grows, his protein needs increase, especially during school age, when egg consumption can be safely increased to two per day. As a general recommendation, between one and two eggs a day is good for a child, depending on his or her age,” he said. On the best method of preparing eggs, Oloyede stated that boiled eggs offer the best benefits because no additional cooking ingredients, such as oil, butter, or fat, are required in preparation. “When an egg is boiled, the body has the capacity to utilise over 90 per cent of the protein compared with other forms of cooking. When cooking eggs, they should not be overcooked so as not to destroy vitamins and antioxidants that are available. Hard-boiled eggs have no advantage. Once the white and yolk parts of the eggs are firm, they are ready for eating. This is important too to prevent food-borne infections,” he added. Speaking on how eggs can help curb malnutrition in children, a Consultant Dietitian and Public Relations Officer for the Association of Nigerian Dietitians, Lagos State, Charles Oguikpe, stated that eggs are a powerful tool in combating malnutrition, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. “Eggs are excellent for growing children because they provide high-quality protein, essential vitamins like B12 and D, healthy fats, and minerals such as iron and zinc, all crucial for brain development, muscle growth, and immune support. Egg is a source of good protein, which helps in tissue repair, growth, and body development,” Oguikpe said. For children, he recommended that children aged one to three years should consume half to one egg per day, children aged four to eight years should have one egg per day, whilst older children and teens can consume one to two eggs per day, depending on activity level and dietary needs. “It is generally safe for school-aged children, five to 12 years, to eat up to two eggs per day, as long as they have no egg allergies and maintain a balanced diet. Eggs provide essential nutrients that support growth, brain development, and immunity. Balance and moderation are key,” the registered nutritionist said. He further emphasised that eggs should be part of a diverse diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Regarding the most nutritious forms of eggs, the dietitian stated that boiled eggs retain most nutrients with no added fat and are ideal for heart health, whilst poached eggs are similar to boiled eggs, with gentle cooking preserving nutrients. He noted that scrambled eggs are nutritious but often cooked with butter or oil, which increases fat content, whilst fried eggs are tasty but higher in fat and calories depending on the oil used. “Raw eggs carry the risk of salmonella and are not recommended, despite minimal nutrient loss. Egg whites are high in protein, low in fat and cholesterol, but lack yolk nutrients like choline and vitamin D. Whole eggs offer the best overall nutrition—the yolk contains essential vitamins and healthy fats. Boiled or poached whole eggs offer the best nutritional value with minimal added fat,” Oguikpe said.

Cashew farmers under the umbrella of the National Cashew Association of Nigeria have renewed calls on the Federal Government to shelve the proposed plan to ban the exportation of cashew nuts, warning that such a move could worsen poverty, cripple the non-oil export sector, and repeat the mistakes associated with Nigeria’s crude oil industry. Leaders of the association from Oyo and Kwara states, Messrs Salami Adebayo Tunde and Omotosho Theophilus Tunde, told journalists, including the THENEWSCREDIT, in Ilorin on Monday that policies and legislations at the federal level should prioritise the overall interest of Nigerians, especially those seeking alternatives to the volatile global oil economy. The farmers, who spoke in line with resolutions reached at a meeting of concerned groups under the NCAN (Farmers’ Wing) held on December 17, 2025, in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, described the proposed bill before the National Assembly as “anti-people” and inimical to national economic growth. According to them, banning cashew exports without first building domestic processing capacity would amount to subjecting the sector to the same fate as Nigeria’s crude oil industry, where the country exports raw crude but imports refined petroleum products despite having refineries. They said, “The sad story of Nigeria’s crude oil sector should serve as a lesson. We have crude oil in abundance, refineries on the ground, yet Nigerians suffer because of poor policy choices. We should not repeat this mistake with cashew.” The farmers argued that rather than banning exportation, the Federal Government should establish at least five functional processing factories across major cashew-producing states such as Oyo, Kwara, Kogi, and other parts of the country where raw materials are readily available. They warned that the proposed ban could have dire consequences for youths who have found livelihoods in cashew farming and exportation, especially at a time when many young people are turning away from crime to agriculture. “The danger ahead is real,” they said. “Many youths who found hope and a new life in cashew farming and export business will be pushed back into hardship if this bill scales through.” The NCAN leaders noted that Nigerian cashew exporters are already earning foreign exchange and contributing to the economy, stressing that exporters now bring in dollars regularly, just like their counterparts in other cashew-producing countries. “In the case of cashew nuts, Nigerians are thriving. Farmers are selling at favourable prices, earning foreign exchange and supporting the economy. Why should the government disrupt this progress?” they queried. They also cautioned against individuals sponsoring the bill, accusing them of pursuing selfish interests rather than the welfare of farmers and the nation at large. The farmers further warned that Nigeria risked losing the global cashew trade, as happened with shea nuts, if it continued to ban exports without first creating processing capacity. “As long as Nigeria bans products without building capacity, it will lose revenue and markets,” they said. They urged the Federal Government to focus on expanding cashew plantations, improving productivity, and supporting farmers, rather than introducing policies that could erase livelihoods. The group also called on the National Assembly to conduct public hearings and wide consultations before advancing any bill that could negatively affect farmers, urging policymakers to study countries like India and Pakistan, where investment in processing capacity has strengthened global competitiveness. Earlier, the National President of NCAN, Dr Ojo Ajanaku, warned that millions of Nigerian farmers could be impoverished if the cashew export ban becomes law. He said access to Special Agro-Processing Loans (SAPL) at single-digit interest rates was critical to growing the sector and encouraging private investors to establish modern processing plants. Ajanaku criticised what he described as the lack of structure and consultation around the proposed bill, warning that discouraging exports without strengthening domestic processing would undermine farmers’ livelihoods and weaken Nigeria’s position in the global market.

President Bola Tinubu has said that Nigerian-British heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua is receiving the best treatment in Nigeria following an accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on Monday. President Tinubu disclosed this in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday. The statement said the president had a telephone conversation with AJ and his mother. “I spoke with AJ on the phone to personally convey my condolences over the death of his two associates. I wished him well and prayed for him. He assured me that he is receiving the best care in the hospital. “I also spoke with AJ’s mother and prayed for her. She was very appreciative of my call. “Additionally, I spoke to Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was in the hospital with them. The governor assured me that he will do everything possible to ensure AJ receives the best possible attention,” the President said. expressed profound sympathy for the boxer over the accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. The statement read: “I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident. As a sportsman, you have always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country. These are qualities that have made you a source of national pride. “In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny. “I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed.” THENEWSCREDIT reports that AJ was involved in an accident in Nigeria which claimed two lives. The Federal Road Safety Corps blamed overspeeding for the accident

The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for the 2026 Ekiti governorship election, Dr Wole Oluyede, and his deputy were conspicuously absent as the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, released the provisional list of party candidates ahead of the election. INEC on Monday posted the list of candidates from 12 political parties vying for the state’s top job at its office on New Iyin Road, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. The list shows that the All Progressives Congress, APC, is fielding the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji, with Monisade Afuye as his running mate. Other candidates include Opeyemi Falegan of the Accord Party, with Omoyemi Olaleye as deputy; Akande Oluwasegun of the African Action Congress, paired with Oluwasanmi Fajuyigbe; and Ayodeji Ojo of the Action Democratic Party, with Itunu Ibitoye as running mate. Similarly, the African Democratic Congress is presenting Oluwadare Bejide and Paul Olowoyeye, while the Action Peoples Party has Bidemi Awogbemi and Akinyemi Adewumi on its ticket. The PDP’s absence may not be unconnected with the leadership crisis currently rocking the party at the national level.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the world is facing a moment of profound danger and choice, saying global instability, violence and climate breakdown are pushing humanity to a critical crossroads. Guterres issued the warning in a New Year’s video message released on Monday, in which he described a global landscape increasingly defined by fear and uncertainty. He said, “As we enter the new year, the world stands at a crossroads. Chaos and uncertainty surround us.” The UN chief pointed to deepening global fractures, highlighting what he described as a retreat from shared values. “Division. Violence. Climate breakdown. And systemic violations of international law,” Guterres said, adding that these trends reflect “A retreat from the very principles that bind us together as a human family.” He said public trust in leadership is weakening as crises continue to mount across the globe. “People everywhere are asking: Are leaders even listening? Are they ready to act?” he said. Guterres also drew attention to what he described as misplaced global priorities, citing a sharp rise in military spending worldwide. “As we turn the page on a turbulent year, one fact speaks louder than words: Global military spending has soared to 2.7 trillion dollars, growing by almost 10 per cent,” he stated. He contrasted the figure with funding for development efforts. “That is thirteen times more than all development aid, equivalent to the entire Gross Domestic Product of Africa,” he said, noting that the increase comes “All, while conflict rages at levels unseen since World War II.” Calling for a change in direction, the Secretary-General urged governments to rethink their spending choices. “On this new year, let’s resolve to get our priorities straight. “A safer world begins by investing more in fighting poverty and less in fighting wars. Peace must prevail,” he said. Guterres insisted that global challenges are solvable if leaders demonstrate the political will to act. “It’s clear the world has the resources to lift lives, heal the planet, and secure a future of peace and justice.” Looking ahead to the coming year, he issued a direct appeal to world leaders. “In 2026, I call on leaders everywhere: Get serious. Choose people and planet over pain,” he noted. He also urged individuals to take responsibility for shaping the future. “And I urge everyone who hears this message: Play your part, Our future depends on our collective courage to act.” Guterres concluded his address with a call for unity. He concluded, “This new year, let’s rise together: For justice. For humanity. For peace.” The message comes amid escalating global tensions, with wars and armed conflicts ongoing across parts of Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia, alongside rising displacement, humanitarian crises and the growing impacts of climate change and economic instability.

The Joint Tax Board of Nigeria has made it easier for Nigerians to access their Tax Identification Number (Tax ID) online, eliminating the need for a separate registration process. The Tax ID, a unique 13-digit number, is required for tax administration and banking purposes. According to a post obtained from the Joint Tax Board of Nigeria’s X handle on Monday, the board, now known as the Joint Revenue Board and the Nigerian Revenue Services, formerly known as the Federal Inland Revenue Service, have announced the launch of the Nigerian Tax ID Portal. The organisations said, “The portal, which goes live from January 1, 2026, will allow individual Nigerians and businesses to retrieve their tax identification number (Tax ID) using either the National Identification Number (NIN) for individuals and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration number for businesses.” JTB said Nigerians will need to follow the following steps to retrieve their Tax ID using NIN and CAC number: For Individuals: Visit www.taxidjtb.gov.ng or www.taxidnrs.govng Click on the “Individual” tab on the homepage. -Select National Identification Number (NIN). Enter your 11-digit NIN Click on Retrieve Tax ID” Enter “First Name, “Last Name, and ‘Date of Birth exactly as captured by NIMC. Click “Continue” 13-digit Tax ID will be displayed. For Non-Individuals (Registered Entities) Visit www.taxidjtb.gov.ng or www.taxidnrs.govng Click on the “Corporate” tab Select the appropriate organisation type Enter your CAC registration number, as applicable Click” Retrieve Tax ID” 13-digit Tax ID will be displayed.

A 25-year-old man has been beaten to death during a turbaning ceremony in Yobe State. The incident was contained in a post shared on X by security analyst Zagazola Makama. According to the post, the victim, identified as Maina Jano, was attacked during a turbaning ceremony held at Barwa Fulani settlement in Kafetuwa, Karasuwa Local Government Area of the state. The incident reportedly happened at about 11:50 p.m. on December 26, 2025, while youths were taking part in a Shadi competition during the turbaning ceremony of Lamido Alhaji Kunjo. Makama stated that Jano, who was from Nassara Fulani settlement in Kumaganam, Yusufari Local Government Area, was allegedly beaten by an unidentified man during the event. He sustained serious internal injuries as a result of the attack. He was rushed to the General Hospital in Kumaganam for treatment but later died from his injuries.

The Federal Road Safety Corps has confirmed that excessive speed and wrongful overtaking led to the crash involving British-Nigerian boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on Monday. The Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, stated this in a statement made available to our correspondent on Monday. THENEWSCREDIT had reported that the accident occurred around the Sinoma area near Sagamu in Ogun State at about 12pm and involved a black Lexus SUV conveying Joshua and a stationary red Sinotruck. According to the statement, preliminary findings by the FRSC Ogun Sector Command revealed that five adult males were involved in the crash., adding that two of the occupants died on the spot. The statement disclosed that one sustained injuries, while two others escaped unhurt., noting that Joshua was rescued alive with minor injuries. The statement added, “The injured victim was evacuated for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were conveyed to Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu. “The Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division was duly notified for further investigation and necessary documentation. Preliminary findings indicate that the Lexus Jeep, which was suspected to be travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit on the corridor, lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into a stationary truck well packed by the side of the road. “The primary causes of the crash being excessive speed and wrongful overtaking constitute serious traffic violations and remain among the leading causes of fatal road crashes on Nigerian highways.” The corps further conveyed the condolences of the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, saying,“On behalf of the entire Management and staff of the Federal Road Safety Corps, heartfelt condolences go to the families of the deceased, and we wish the injured victim, Anthony Joshua, a speedy recovery.” The FRSC urged motorists to prioritise safety, warning against speeding and dangerous overtaking, particularly during the festive season. It als reaffirmed its commitment to safer highways through enforcement, rescue operations and public education. “The public is reminded that the Corps remains resolute in its mandate to ensure safer roads, prompt emergency response, and sustained public education aimed at reducing road traffic crashes and fatalities across the country,” the statement added.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has downplayed rumours of him contesting the presidential election in 2027. Wike said it would be unfair to run for the presidency against President Bola Tinubu, who is his employer. Tinubu had appointed Wike, a former two-time governor of Rivers State, as the FCT Minister in 2023. During the 2023 electioneering period, Wike and his G-5 Integrity group from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, worked for Tinubu’s victory. The group turned against the then PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar despite threats to expel them from the party. Speaking during a media chat in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Wike said: “We are the ones here that is going to make it happen, I’m not going to run because it would be unfair for me to go and stand in an election against the person who appointed me. “At least I have conscience even though people are rumoring that be careful of Wike, he is going to run.”