₦airaland Forum

I hear you, and it’s easy to feel that way when you look at the news. But here is the thing: Fraud is a gamble, not a skill. When you build on fraud, you spend your whole life looking over your shoulder. When you build on a skill like Content Marketing or Tech, you sleep with your eyes closed, and your value goes up every year. One is a shortcut that can end in a crash; the other is a foundation. I’d rather be a king on a solid foundation than a president on a shaky one

obama30:
Not learned how to defraud because is a good business in Nigeria. For example some people fogged California university certificate and today they are president. Some everything about them is falsified yet they rule. Even about to implement Tax reform is tampered. Is all this not evident that fraud pays in Nigeria.

"For me, it’s Content Marketing. I spent years thinking that if I just worked hard and had a good product/service, people would eventually find me. I was wrong. I’ve watched people with half my talent and 'average' products become millionaires simply because they knew how to tell a story and capture attention online.

I regret not learning how to:

Write copy that actually makes people bring out their ATM cards.
Understand the algorithm instead of just 'posting and praying.'
Build an audience that trusts me before I even have anything to sell.

Back in 2019, data was cheap and the organic reach on Facebook/IG was massive. If I had started building my content machine then, I wouldn’t be spending a fortune on sponsored ads today just to be heard.

Content is the new 'oil,' and I started drilling way too late. Now I'm playing catch-up while others are reaping the dividends of the followers they built years ago."

Akinpedia:
I was sitting down today, deeply reflecting on my entire journey so far, and it dawned on me that many of the "hard lessons" I’ve encountered along the way might have been completely avoided if I had simply concentrated on developing one or two specific skills during my early 20s.

We spend an extensive amount of time confined within the four walls of a classroom, diligently absorbing various theories and concepts. However, when we step outside into the "real world," we quickly realize that it demands a completely different set of skills and practical tools that cannot be fully grasped through theoretical learning alone.

For me personally, I honestly regret not having started learning Content Marketing much earlier in my life. At that time, I simply thought of it as just a casual "hobby," completely unaware that it would eventually evolve and become the essential backbone of the modern digital economy and business world as we know it today.

I want to ask the elders and the hustlers on this forum: If you had the chance to travel back in time, what is the one invaluable skill that you wish you had fully mastered before turning 25? Something that would have made a significant difference in your life or career if you had learned it earlier?

Is it a digital skill that pays in Dollars?
Is it a handwork/trade?
Or
is it a "soft skill" like Public Speaking or Negotiation?

Be completely honest in your response. Your thoughtful answer could provide valuable insight and guidance to a younger person who happens to be reading this thread today and looking for advice.

I was sitting down today, deeply reflecting on my entire journey so far, and it dawned on me that many of the "hard lessons" I’ve encountered along the way might have been completely avoided if I had simply concentrated on developing one or two specific skills during my early 20s.

We spend an extensive amount of time confined within the four walls of a classroom, diligently absorbing various theories and concepts. However, when we step outside into the "real world," we quickly realize that it demands a completely different set of skills and practical tools that cannot be fully grasped through theoretical learning alone.

For me personally, I honestly regret not having started learning Content Marketing much earlier in my life. At that time, I simply thought of it as just a casual "hobby," completely unaware that it would eventually evolve and become the essential backbone of the modern digital economy and business world as we know it today.

I want to ask the elders and the hustlers on this forum: If you had the chance to travel back in time, what is the one invaluable skill that you wish you had fully mastered before turning 25? Something that would have made a significant difference in your life or career if you had learned it earlier?

Is it a digital skill that pays in Dollars?
Is it a handwork/trade?
Or
is it a "soft skill" like Public Speaking or Negotiation?

Be completely honest in your response. Your thoughtful answer could provide valuable insight and guidance to a younger person who happens to be reading this thread today and looking for advice.

This is the reality on the ground. It’s a simple game of numbers.

Every year, we churn out hundreds of thousands of graduates into an economy that is shrinking, not expanding. When the 'Army of Unemployed' becomes larger than the 'Army of the Employed,' the country is essentially sitting on a time bomb.

People keep talking about 'morality,' but hunger has no ears. If a young man sees his mother sick and can't afford a N5,000 drug, but sees his peer 'pressing laptop' and making millions, the moral lectures of the government will sound like noise to him.

We are literally 'outsourcing' our best brains to cybercrime because the 'legit' sector is underpaying and overworking. Until a 9-to-5 job can at least pay for a decent room, three square meals, and transport, the 'Army' of Yahoo recruits will only keep growing. You cannot arrest an entire generation.

GAZADEYPARA:
As long as the rate of unemployment and underpaying is still persistent then more army of young people will be joining the Yahoo Yahoo business

I appreciate this perspective, and you’re 100% right about one thing: Greed is a universal human trait. You mentioned the USA and China—they have scammers too.

But here is the difference: In the USA or China, a brilliant 'hacker' or someone with that level of social engineering skill has a high-paying legal alternative. In Silicon Valley, a guy with that brain is being chased by Google and Meta with a $200k salary. In Nigeria, where is the alternative for that same brain?

You said even with a good economy, we’d still have the issue. I agree. But it would be a marginal issue (a crime on the fringes), not a national identity involving millions of youth.

Regarding the 'squandering' of $10k on clubs—that is exactly part of the 'Disease' I’m talking about. When wealth is illegitimate, there is no 'future' to plan for. It’s 'fast money' so they spend it fast. In a stable economy, people invest because they believe the system will protect their investment. In Nigeria, most youth don't believe in tomorrow, so they 'chop' everything today.

Greed is the spark, but a failed economy is the petrol that turned a small fire into a national forest fire.

SpencerForbes:
Greed definitely plays a huge role here. For the record, the USA and China have plenty of hackers and fraudsters too—it's just that Nigerians tend to be louder about it. Even if our economy were as robust as America's, we’d still have this issue. The economy might be a factor, but it’s not the root cause. A lot of our youths are just obsessed with quick money. At the end of the day, it’s about greed; a guy can make $10k and instead of investing in himself, he’ll squander it on clubs and vices. As long as that greed exists, scamming isn't going anywhere.

You have hit the nail on the head, and that question is the ultimate 'checkmate' for anyone who thinks arrests will solve this.

How can we ask a 20-year-old to 'believe in the process' when he sees his professors—men who have spent 40 years in research—going on strike every year just to ask for basic welfare? When the 'symbols' of success in Nigeria are people who can't explain their source of wealth, but the symbols of 'hard work' (teachers/lecturers) are living in debt, the youth will naturally choose the path that pays.

We are running a 'Reverse Meritocracy.' In a normal system, your brain and your sweat determine your height. In the Nigerian system, your 'connection' and your 'hustle' (legal or illegal) determine your height.

Until the government realizes that a well-funded university and a thriving research sector are the best 'Anti-Yahoo' tools available, they are just wasting taxpayers' money on raids. You cannot arrest a mindset that was created by a failed system.

lilsmart:
1

The true danger lies in only treating the symptom through arrests and sermons while the disease (economic exclusion, poor governance, eroded hope, and the institutional capture symbolized by these renamings) continues to fester. This approach only creates a cycle, not a solution. Until the fundamental issues of governance, economic planning, and a restoration of meritocratic and intellectual values are addressed, such symptoms will continue to manifest. The youth are not just choosing crime they are reacting to a system that too often celebrates political success over genuine achievement, leaving them to seek validation and survival in the only ways they see as available.


My Questions is
How can they believe in a system that invests more in symbolic gestures for the powerful than in the quality of education, research facilities, or lecturer welfare?

Omo, na the classic Yahoo story be that. Easy come, easy go. This is why I say it's a symptom. These boys are chasing the bag because of 'urgent 2k' mentality and the pressure to show off. Once the 'wire' stops, reality sets in. 35M for person wey no get orientation na just 'party money.' If him get legit work or a system that actually works, he wouldn't need to 'chop wire' to feel like a man, and he definitely wouldn't waste it on two bellies at once. Sad reality."

KingDashx:
Last year wey one of my guy chop wire of 35M, baba go give him two babes belle very fast, him think say 35M na better money.. now him broke die, I see am for road I swear I think say na begger, him no fit look me for eyes shame won kill am.

I know that many people will glance at this title and instantly jump to the conclusion that I am somehow defending internet fraud or supporting it in any way. Let me be absolutely clear and unequivocal: I am not. Fraud is a serious and harmful cancer that not only destroys our collective reputation but also inflicts significant damage on countless innocent people who fall victim to it.

However, if we continue to concentrate solely on going after the "boys" responsible without taking the time to understand the deeper "why" behind their actions, then we are essentially just trying to fetch water with a basket—completely ineffective and futile.

We need to honestly admit the undeniable truth: Yahoo Yahoo is merely a symptom of a much deeper problem. If you only focus on curing a symptom while completely ignoring the underlying disease, the patient will inevitably continue to suffer and eventually die.

The Real Diseases are

The Collapse of the "Education = Success" Pipeline: We have thousands of graduates who followed every step correctly and met all the requirements, yet they now find themselves having to "buy" positions for jobs that pay as little as ₦30,000 a month. When the official and legitimate path is obstructed by an unyielding wall, people will inevitably find a way to carve out a path through the wilderness, no matter how difficult it may be.

The Worship of "Net Worth" over "Network": Our society today has largely lost respect for the value of process and the time it takes to achieve meaningful progress. Whether in our places of worship or within the intimate setting of family gatherings, the individual who holds the financial resources is often automatically regarded as the "wise one" or the person with the most authority. A young person, only 20 years old, observes firsthand how his father was treated after dedicating 30 years of honest and diligent civil service, and from that experience, he makes the decision that he does not want to follow that same path or lead that kind of life.

State-Sponosred "Yahoo": When young people witness leaders who are unable to justify the misuse or loss of billions of Naira yet continue to walk free without facing any consequences, and even receive prestigious national honors, they do not perceive these actions as criminal offenses. Instead, they view such behavior as a model or blueprint for success. We are in the process of raising a generation that genuinely believes that "crime is only considered a crime if you are poor," creating a dangerous divide in how justice is perceived and applied.

Economic Exclusion: In many other countries around the world, a tech-savvy young person has the opportunity to easily secure a startup loan or find a remote job that pays in US Dollars through legal and straightforward channels. However, in Nigeria, the existing system makes it extremely challenging to receive foreign payments or operate a legitimate business. As a result, countless "hustlers" and entrepreneurs find it much simpler and more practical to remain under the radar and conduct their activities informally rather than navigating the complex and restrictive official processes.

The Bottom Line

The EFCC has the capacity to arrest as many as 1,000 boys every single week, yet despite these efforts, as long as the deeply rooted "Disease" of widespread unemployment, systemic corruption within institutions, and a fractured moral compass in society continues to persist, an even greater number—approximately 2,000 more individuals—will inevitably join their ranks.

To my fellow Nairalanders: Do you believe that the so-called "Yahoo menace" can ever truly be stopped if the Nigerian economy continues to operate as it currently does, with its existing challenges and limitations? Or have we perhaps reached a critical point of no return, where even if the economy improves significantly and becomes stronger, the deep-rooted greed and corrupt practices will persist regardless, making it extremely difficult to completely eradicate this issue?

Thank you for sharing this. It clearly shows that while some people react emotionally, others actually reflect and take action. That single testimony alone makes the message worthwhile. Growth often starts with discomfort, and those who are ready will always take something meaningful from it. Wishing everyone clarity, courage, and progress in the new year ahead.

ibechris:
I wrote something that looks like this some years back about those old men still living in their fathers houses doing nothing for a living,wasting away.

After posting it,I received some insults for the few disgruntled ones and luckily,someone testified how that singular write up changed his life.

I just feel,the few reasonable ones here would tap into this and move to change their lives for the better and do so starting this new year we are heading to.

Good luck to u all.

Let’s put an end to all the self-deception we’ve been caught up in and courageously face the reality that lies ahead of us.

As you sit there scrolling through this thread, if your father was asked to list his assets, would he dare to mention your name? Or would he quickly change the topic to his pension and his old Peugeot?

The truth is bitter: Many of you are "adult dependents." You are 28, 32, or 36, yet your father still wonders if he will have to pay for your children’s school fees in the future. He doesn't hate you, but he’s tired of seeing your "potential." Potential is what we call a man who hasn't succeeded yet.

If you truly want 2026 to be the year when he finally looks at you and genuinely sees you as a MAN, it is absolutely essential that you stop doing these three things right away, without any delay or hesitation:

Stop Being a "Digital Beggar"

Some of you have spent the whole of 2024 and 2025 "tapping" screens and chasing $10 airdrops while your mates are building systems. You are busy looking for "fast money" to buy iPhone, while your father is worried about the leaking roof in the village.

The 2026 Path: Pick a Hard Skill. Whether it’s UI/UX, heavy machinery maintenance, or Agribusiness. Spend the next 12 months in the "trenches" of learning. By 2026, you should be the one telling your father, "Daddy, don't worry about the roof, I've sent the contractor already."

Stop Waiting for "The Perfect Government"

If you are waiting for a President to make you rich, you will be 50 years old and still complaining in the Politics Section. The government doesn't know you exist.

The 2026 Path: Create your own economy. Look for a problem people have (even if it’s small) and solve it for a fee. 2025 is the year of "Dirty Legwork." 2026 is the year of the "Office."

Kill the "Executive Laziness"

You want to make millions, but you wake up by 10:00 AM. You want to be a "Big Boy," but you can't even read a technical book for 30 minutes without falling asleep.

The 2026 Path: Discipline is the price of pride. Your father worked hard in his youth—that’s why he’s disappointed in your "soft" approach to life. Start working like a man who has a family name to protect.

The Bottom Line

Your father’s respect is not something given freely as a gift; rather, it is like an invoice that you must diligently pay off through your achievements and success. The year 2025 is dedicated to the quiet, persistent hustle behind the scenes, where your hard work builds the foundation. Then, 2026 will be the time for you to step into the spotlight and fully embrace the celebration of all that you have accomplished.

Go ahead and call me names in the comments, but remember: Insults don't pay bills. Results do.

Are you truly prepared to stop merely being known as the "Family Prayer Point" and instead become the strong, unwavering "Family Pillar" by the year 2026? What is the one significant thing you are deciding to change or take action on TODAY that will set you on this transformative path?

If you are still carrying your First Class degree or MBA around, hoping to secure a political appointment in Nigeria, it’s time to wake up and face reality. In the competitive and often unpredictable Nigerian political "labor market," your certificate is merely a piece of paper with no guaranteed value, while your loyalty is considered a blank check that can be cashed in at any moment.

Let’s stop deceiving ourselves and facing the reality with English. The "Oga at the top" doesn’t actually require your so-called "First Class" brains or intellectual prowess to fix the country; what he truly needs is your complete and unwavering 100% submission and loyalty to advance and protect his own personal interests.

Here is the bitter truth about why Loyalty consistently outperforms Competence every single time within our system: The reality is that unwavering loyalty often holds more weight and influence than sheer competence when it comes to decision-making and advancement. In many cases, loyalty creates a foundation of trust and reliability that competence alone cannot guarantee, making it a more valued trait in our organizational environment.

- Competence is a Threat, Loyalty is Insurance: A man who is too "competent" is dangerous. He knows his worth, he has options, and he might one day think he is smarter than the Godfather. But a "Loyal Boy"? He knows he is nothing without his principal. He is an insurance policy that will never expire.

- The "Yes-Man" Curriculum Vitae: In Nigerian politics, the best CV is being a world-class "Yes-Man." When the Godfather says "jump," the competent man asks "Why?", but the loyal man asks "How high, sir?" Who do you think gets the Ministerial slot?

- Stomach Infrastructure over Governance: We keep shouting "Technocrats! Technocrats!" but technocrats don't win elections. It is the loyal "grassroot generals" who understand stomach infrastructure that deliver the votes. After the election, the Oga must reward those who "followed who know road," not the person who was speaking big grammar in a cool office.

- The Godfatherism Factor: Our politics is built on the foundation of Godfatherism. A Godfather would rather put a "dullard" who will take instructions in a key position than a "genius" who will start quoting the constitution and blocking the "flow" of things.

The Reality Check

We constantly find ourselves questioning why Nigeria is not progressing or advancing as it should. The truth is quite straightforward: we are a country where connections — who you know — and how skillfully you can show deference or bow to those in power matter far more than your actual skills or what you are capable of doing.

As long as our society continues to prioritize and reward loyalty and favoritism over genuine talent, intelligence, and competence, we will inevitably keep facing the same disappointing outcomes and stagnation.

My fellow Nairalanders, let’s be completely honest and straightforward for once: If you were a Governor today, faced with the critical choice, would you prefer to hire a brilliant and highly talented "Independent" mind who has the potential to think freely but might betray your trust, or would you rather choose a loyal and dependable "Average" person who may not be exceptional but is willing to stand by you and even sacrifice their life for your cause?

Is the idea of "Competence" merely a myth when it comes to Nigerian politics, or does it actually exist in some form within the political landscape? Many people often question whether true competence is ever demonstrated by political leaders in Nigeria, or if it is just an idealized concept that rarely translates into reality. The discussion around this topic is complex and involves examining the various challenges and realities faced by politicians in the country.

This is definitely an hate speech

KaLuCh:
No it's not. I'm not sure what is there to laud about corruption and criminality. Tinubu will struggle to win a local government in a free and fair election. Outside Africa, he'll long be in jail.

Respect is earned through visible results. Nigerians are hopeful that Tinubu's leadership will translate into real development, improved infrastructure, and better living standards for everyone.

Predictor3:
He should build Nigeria the same way and earn people's respect.

Tinubu's remarkable political journey from being a dedicated NADECO activist in 1993 to becoming the President of Nigeria in 2023 is built upon a foundation of strategic mentoring, innovative fiscal policies, meticulous party engineering, effective grassroots mobilization, and consistent electoral dominance.

His tenure as the Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007 played a critical role in establishing the initial groundwork for his broader ambitions, which later expanded into a powerful national political machine through the formation and leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This comprehensive analysis is based on a wide range of credible reports and sources that detail his carefully crafted multi-decade political strategy.

Talent Factory

During his tenure as governor, Tinubu served as a mentor to several key figures, guiding and supporting their careers. He strategically elevated these individuals by appointing them to important roles within Lagos, which helped them gain valuable experience and visibility.

Over time, this mentorship and promotion not only enhanced their profiles within the state but also propelled many of them into positions of national prominence. Through this deliberate process, Tinubu was able to build a strong and loyal network of influential allies who remained connected to him throughout their political journeys.

- Babatunde Fashola: Lagos Governor (2007-2015), Minister of Works & Housing.​
- Akinwunmi Ambode: Lagos Governor (2015-2019).​
- Rauf Aregbesola: Osun Governor (2010-2018), Minister of Interior.​
- Kayode Fayemi: Ekiti Governor (2018-2022), Minister of Mines & Steel.​
- Yemi Osinbajo: Lagos AG, VP of Nigeria (2015-2023).​
- Femi Gbajabiamila: Lagos Rep, House Speaker (2019-2023), CoS to President.​
- Lai Mohammed: Lagos Commissioner, Info Minister (2015-2023).​
- Muiz Banire: Lagos AG, later APC legal adviser.​
- Adams Oshiomhole: Edo Governor (2016-2020), ex-Labour leader allied via Tinubu.​
- Musiliu Akinsanya (MC Oluomo): NURTW Lagos Chair, Tinubu mobilizer.​

Key Insight: This particular "factory" was responsible for producing more than 80% of the governors and federal ministers representing the Southwest APC, thereby guaranteeing a strong sense of loyalty that took precedence over personal ambition and individual aspirations.​

Financial Strategy

- During his tenure, Tinubu significantly boosted Lagos State's Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), increasing it from ₦14 billion in 1999 to over ₦80 billion annually by 2007. This remarkable growth was achieved through comprehensive tax reforms, the introduction of digital revenue collection systems, and the implementation of land use charges. These measures were particularly impactful considering the substantial reductions in federal allocations to Lagos State under the People's Democratic Party (PDP) government during the same period.

- This surplus was used to fully fund opposition campaigns for ACN/APC across the entire nation between 2007 and 2015, covering expenses such as salaries, logistics, and patronage, all without the need for any financial support or reliance on federal government resources.

- The model—centered on generating autonomous revenue through enforcement mechanisms and fostering economic growth—effectively sustained his organizational structure throughout the entire period of PDP dominance. This approach allowed for consistent financial independence and structural stability despite political fluctuations.

Key Insight: Lagos Internal Generated Revenue (IGR) served as a vital source of "oxygen," effectively transforming the state into a robust political war chest that played a crucial role in financially supporting and securing the All Progressives Congress (APC)'s significant victory in the 2015 elections. This substantial financial backing underscored the strategic importance of Lagos IGR in shaping political outcomes during that period.

2013 Merger

- Tinubu played a pivotal role in brokering the formation of the APC by uniting various factions, including ACN, CPC (led by Buhari), ANPP, and APGA. In this strategic alliance, he conceded the presidency to Buhari, while successfully securing control over the Southwest region for his faction and earning the influential title of "National Leader." This agreement was instrumental in shaping the party’s structure and political strategy.

- The negotiations extensively involved detailed zoning formulas, where the North was designated to produce the presidential candidate, while loyal supporters of Tinubu were allocated key strategic positions within the party structure. Additionally, to prevent any potential regional backlash or political unrest, he made the deliberate decision to reject pursuing the 2015 presidential candidacy, demonstrating a careful balancing of regional interests and party unity.

- His pivotal kingmaker role significantly amplified his influence, allowing him to strategically direct substantial funds and crucial endorsements, thereby shaping political outcomes despite the inherent risks associated with backing certain candidates.

Key Insight: The National Leader successfully implemented shadow control, significantly outperforming a similar effort in 2015 by effectively uniting the opposition forces without exposing themselves personally to risks or accountability. This strategic approach allowed them to maintain influence and coordination behind the scenes while ensuring their own position remained secure and unchallenged.

Grassroots Integration

- Tinubu strategically embedded the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), particularly through the influential figure MC Oluomo, as well as various market unions such as traders through a system of patronage, deeply integrating them into the political mobilization efforts in Lagos. He effectively utilized these groups not only to boost voter turnout but also to ensure security and organize large-scale rallies, thereby strengthening his political influence and grassroots support within the city.

- Reports provide detailed insights into NURTW's management of BRT operations under a collaborative alliance with LAMATA, showcasing a strategic blend of informal muscle power combined with official state contracts designed to secure unwavering loyalty from involved parties.

- This organizational structure consistently delivered block votes, ensuring a reliable and unified voting pattern. This approach was effectively replicated on a national scale through various affiliates of the APC, allowing the party to maintain widespread support across different regions and constituencies.

Key Insight: The control exerted by the informal sector effectively transformed the streets into a powerful vote machine, creating a system that proved to be virtually unbeatable in generating high urban voter turnout. This grassroots mechanism mobilized voters on a massive scale, ensuring consistent and overwhelming participation in the electoral process across city centers. The informal sector’s influence turned everyday urban spaces into hubs of political engagement, making them critical arenas for electoral success.

Electoral Map Evolution

- In the year 2003, Bola Tinubu emerged as the Southwest's steadfast "last man standing," being the only Action Congress (AD) governor who managed to survive the widespread rigging efforts orchestrated by the People's Democratic Party (PDP). Despite facing significant political challenges and intense electoral manipulation, Tinubu successfully maintained his grip on Lagos State, even as the AD suffered substantial losses in other key southwestern states such as Oyo, Ogun, and Ondo. This remarkable political resilience underscored his unique position and influence within the region during a tumultuous electoral period.​

- By the year 2023, the All Progressives Congress (APC) had successfully swept all six states in the Southwest region, securing gubernatorial victories with notable leaders such as Governors Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, Oyetola, the successor to Fayemi, and Makinde's rival who was decisively defeated. Furthermore, Bola Tinubu achieved an impressive win by capturing over 60% of the votes across the entire region, demonstrating overwhelming support and dominance in the Southwest.

- Influence initially extended to just one-sixth of the states but eventually grew to achieve total dominance, largely through the strategic support of protégés and the allocation of substantial funds.​

Key Insight: Transforming from a lone survivor to becoming a dominant regional hegemon, the scaling Lagos model decisively overwhelmed and crushed the PDP in Bornu, showcasing a remarkable political evolution and strategic success.

Fellow Nigerians, we need to talk about what just happened in the House of Reps. While we are all preparing for the New Year, it seems there is a major "magical" shift happening with the laws that will govern our pockets from 2026.

Today, Wednesday, Dec 17, Hon. Abdulsammad Dasuki (PDP-Sokoto) dropped a bombshell on the floor of the House. He raised a Point of Privilege (Order 6, Rule 2), alleging that the Gazetted copies of the new Tax Reform Laws are NOT the same as the versions passed and harmonized by the National Assembly.

According to Dasuki, he spent the last three days comparing the official Government Gazette (obtained from the Ministry of Information) with the Votes and Proceedings of the House. His verdict? "I am seeing something completely different."

Recall that President Tinubu signed these four bills into law back in June 2025

- The Nigeria Tax Act
- The Nigeria Tax Administration Act
- The Nigeria Revenue Service Act
- The Joint Revenue Board Act

Why This Is Dangerous

If the Executive can change a few words or "fine-tune" figures in a bill after the National Assembly has already voted on it, then the legislative process is a joke.

- Did they change the VAT scope?
- Did they alter the 4% Development Levy?
- Or did they mess with the tax exemptions for those earning under ₦800k?

Hon. Dasuki has called on Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to bring the Gazetted copies to the Committee of the Whole so every member can see exactly what was "smuggled" in or out.

The Big Questions

- How can a law change between the National Assembly and the Printer? Is this a "clerical error" or
- A deliberate attempt to impose taxes that weren't agreed upon?

With implementation set for January 1st, 2026, we have less than two weeks to get the truth.

What do you guys think? Is this another "padding" saga or something worse?

Thank you for the thoughtful response. I believe there may be a misinterpretation of my position, so let me clarify.

At no point did I suggest that all youths share a single ideology, support one candidate, or speak with one voice. Nigerian youths are undeniably diverse in background, geography, religion, and political preference. That diversity is not in dispute.

However, acknowledging diversity does not negate the fact that a significant segment of youths—across regions and beyond social media—felt politically disengaged, unheard, or disillusioned with the system. Low trust in institutions, voter suppression concerns, economic hardship, and security challenges affected youth participation and perception, regardless of who they voted for.

Social media is indeed not a perfect mirror of society, but it is also not meaningless. It reflects patterns, sentiments, and mobilization efforts, even if it does not represent absolute majorities. Dismissing it entirely would be just as inaccurate as assuming it represents everyone.

Regarding Northern youths, their political participation is valid and legitimate, just as that of youths in other regions. Voting quietly does not make their voices less important—but it also does not invalidate the frustration expressed by others who feel the system consistently fails them.

On your final point: yes, the perpetrators of the Deborah incident were youths. But being young does not automatically make one morally representative of “the youth voice.” Criminal acts, extremism, or mob violence should never be conflated with civic participation or political expression. Doing so risks shifting the discussion from governance and inclusion to blame and moral equivalence.

In summary, the issue is not that youths did not vote or that they voted “wrong.” The issue is that many youths—across political lines—still feel excluded from decision-making, economic opportunity, and accountable governance. That sentiment deserves discussion, not dismissal.

loffyloffy:
What gives you the impression that the voice of the 'Youth' was not heared?

Limiting your definition of youth to only those active online is a clear weakness in your arguement.

Another weakness is the implied assumption that the youths speaks with one voice and perhaps even supports 'one candidate', that is a major fallacy. Every 'Candidate' have youths that are supporting them, not just the candidates with the 'vocal' and 'abusive' youths online.

There are more youths in Nothern Nigeria for instance than in other parts of Nigeria combined, and a substantial number of those youths voted for their candidate of choice and their votes counted. That they are not on twiter abusing people with contrary opinion to them, does not mean they don't exist.

Our youth population is as diverse in view as the adult population, while social media can give you a view of the mind set of the people, that view is only partial and many cases not a true reflection of the feelings of majority of people.

The youths deffinitely voted and made their voices heard in the last election, they just didn't vote the way you expected based on the views you formed from the few vocal aggressors on social media.

On a bleak note, the people that killed 'Deborah' are also youths..are they not?

We have the ability to keep a hashtag trending continuously for a full 72 hours without interruption. We can engage in intense "vawulence" on X (formerly known as Twitter) relentlessly until the opposition is forced to delete their account entirely. However, when it comes to the real game—the crucial and decisive battle at the ballot box—we find ourselves merely playing the role of "substitute," while the grandpas, the seasoned veterans, are the ones scoring all the important goals.

The 2023 elections revealed to us the most profoundly ugly irony ever witnessed in the entire history of Nigeria.

The Stats of Shame:

INEC records show we had 93.47 million registered voters. Youth (18-34) made up nearly 40% of that list. We were the "majority" on paper. But when the dust settled, total voter turnout was a miserable 26.7%.

The Math: If 4 out of 10 registered voters are youth, but only 2 out of 10 people showed up to vote, who stayed at home? It wasn't the "agbaya" (elders) in the village. It was the "Soro Soke" generation.

"Grammar" vs. "Grassroots" (The Echo Chamber)

On platforms like Nairaland and X, we often find ourselves deeply engaged in heated debates about various national issues such as government policies, the reliability of BVAS machines, and the integrity of the IReV system. However, it is important to remember that the real battleground where elections are ultimately won or lost is at the Ward level, where grassroots connections and direct voter engagement matter far more than discussions about advanced technologies like 5G data.

- While we were busy "dragging" candidates online, the professional politicians were on the ground distributing 1kg of rice and N2,000 "stomach infrastructure."
- The Reality: One "Area Mama" in a rural ward who mobilizes 50 neighbors to the polling unit has more political power than a tech bro with 500,000 followers.

Logistical "L"s and the Japa Factor

We have to be completely honest with you—the system definitely fought back every step of the way.

- The PVC Bottleneck: Many of us spent days at local government offices and still didn't get our cards.
- The "Japa" Effect: Thousands of our most politically active youth left the country between registration and election day. They were loud online from London and Canada, but they had no voting rights in Lagos or Abuja.
- The Waiting Game: Late arrival of materials frustrated the "Instant Gratification" generation. If the queue is too long, we leave. But the elders? They will sit on a plastic chair from 7 AM till 4 PM just to thumbprint.

The "Keyboard Warrior" Syndrome

Digital activism gives us a fake sense of achievement. When a post gets 1,000 likes, we feel like we've won the election. Newsflash: INEC does not count "Likes." They count thumbprints on paper. Social media is a playground; the Polling Unit is the battlefield. If you are loud on one and absent on the other, you are just a "noise maker."

If this trend continues in the same direction, the outcome for 2027 is already all but decided well in advance. The members of the so-called "Old Guard" are fully aware that the younger generation will express their frustrations and opinions loudly online, through social media and digital platforms, but when it comes time to vote at the polls, they simply won’t follow through with the same level of engagement. They do not fear the barrage of tweets or online commentary; what truly concerns them is when young people show up physically in large numbers at the local ward meetings and polling stations, making their presence felt in person.

Questions for the House

- Is it that we are genuinely suppressed, or are we just too lazy to endure the physical stress of Nigerian voting?
- Why does a 70-year-old grandmother in a village value her vote more than a 25-year-old graduate in the city?
- Should INEC allow online voting, or would that just be the "end of democracy" via hacking?

Let's engage in a thoughtful discussion. Please avoid any insults or personal attacks; focus solely on clear, objective analysis and constructive dialogue.

Bros and sis, make una come chop o! Growing up in Naija, our parents, uncles, and even some "senior bros" no dey joke as dem dey feed us serious business yeye talk wey later turn out to be pure 419 scam. These talks wey dem dey yarn for our ears sometimes make sense for small, but as time dey pass, we go discover say na pure wahala and deception be the koko.

From the saying "hustle go pay" to the belief that "Government work na the only way," these lies have truly tired us out over time. Let me share a little laugh as I break down five of these false beliefs that continue to haunt and drain our pockets even today. Who else here has ever fallen mugu for any of these ones? 😩😂

"Get Government Job, Your Life Don Set!" Ah, the classic white-collar dream that many have chased for decades! People always tell us say na only civil service or big bank job fit make person buy Benz and live comfortably. But if you look around now, na only politicians and their "boys" dey enjoy that kind of life and luxury. With the way Naira dey dance shaku shaku for 2025, that fixed salary no fit even buy half bag of rice again, not to talk of other necessities. Private hustle and Tech sectors don clearly show us say "Security" without "Scalability" na total scam and no longer fit guarantee a better future!

"Just Read Your Books, Job Go Find You" "Get First Class, NNPC go carry you!" Lmao. You go graduate with 2:1, send 500 CVs, and the only reply you get na "Experience Needed." Meanwhile, your village people dey laugh. The real hustle for this 2025 no be just paper qualifications alone. The real business for this 2025 na Skills + Networking, no be just certificate wey dey gather dust for cupboard. Without practical skills and solid connections, that certificate fit just dey collect cobwebs.

"Never Ever Sell On Credit!" Aunty wey dey for market go always tell you say "selling on credit na how village people dey collapse their business." While it is true that debt and credit come with risks, if you look closely at successful companies like Jumia, Bolt, and all these big Fintechs—dem actually dey thrive because of credit! That strict "Cash and Carry Only" mentality na the very reason why many small businesses for our street no fit expand or grow properly. If you no sabi how to manage credit well for 2025, your business go just dey remain stagnant, no progress at all.

"Oil Money Na the Only Real Money" "Go Delta, work for Shell, dollar go rain!" Ehn, that was the popular saying until the layoffs began to hit hard. While we dey wait patiently for the "Oil Boom Remix" to drop, tech sisters and brothers dey comfortably stay house dey collect remote dollars from all over the world. From Content Creation to Agrotech innovations, people dey mint millions of naira without ever coming close to or seeing a single drop of crude oil.

"Do Am Solo, No Trust Anybody" "Na your business, hide your plans, do am alone like Dangote!" This statement is a big lie coming straight from the pit of hell. Even Dangote, the billionaire, has board members and international partners who support his ventures. Trying to be a lone ranger will only lead to stress and high blood pressure. In 2025, if you cannot Collab or Partner with others, your business will remain just a "one-man-mop" operation until you eventually burn out and tire.

Ehen, which of these ones dey cause pain pass for una body? Or una get another kind "lamba" wey dem hammer for una head back when una still be small pikin?

Drop a comment below and let’s expose and discuss them all together! 😂 Who’s really ready to hustle smarter and make this year the best one yet? Let’s get motivated and crush those goals like never before!

What is Grassroot Eboes?

aribisala0:
grassroot Eboes

Nigeria's 2023 presidential race wasn't just a contest; it was a clash of titans, each wielding weapons forged in the fires of our chaotic democracy. Structure means the old-school party machinery: loyal delegates, governors in your pocket, and boots on the ground from Sokoto to Calabar. Power is the dark art of money, institutional muscle, and networks that bend reality itself.

Atiku Abubakar boasts the first;
Bola Tinubu commands the second.
But Peter Obi? That's the million-naira question we'll unpack today. Can a man without the machine or the millions really shake the throne?

The Atiku 'Structure': PDP's Iron Grip and Waziri's Web

Atiku Abubakar didn't stumble into relevance—he built it brick by brick over decades. As a founding father of the PDP, he's the party's evergreen candidate, the man who turns primaries into coronations. Remember 2019? Despite internal knives, his delegates held firm, delivering him the ticket like clockwork.

His structure shines in the governors' club: from Nyesom Wike's Rivers fortress to Ifeanyi Okowa's Delta machine, Atiku's got Northern emirs whispering his name and Southern godfathers dialing his line. This isn't hype—it's tangible. PDP ward executives, youth wings, and women's groups span 774 LGAs, fueled by patronage that's survived military juntas and civilian coups.

In a country where elections are won at collation centers, Atiku's web ensures votes are "harvested" efficiently. Critics call it corruption; fans say it's mastery. Either way, it's why he's the comeback king.

The Tinubu 'Power': Money, Institutions, and the Godfather's Shadow

If Atiku has the scaffold, Bola Tinubu wields the sledgehammer—pure, unadulterated power. We're talking a war chest that could fund a small nation: billions from Alpha Beta taxes, real estate empires, and Lagos' golden goose. In 2023, his APC machine printed money like INEC prints result sheets, buying endorsements from Rivers to Zamfara.

But it's deeper than cash. Tinubu's godfather status controls institutions—the judiciary (hello, election petitions), security agencies, and even INEC's underbelly. His Southwest network? Decades in the making, from NADECO days to Buhari's kitchen cabinet. Jagaban doesn't need delegates; he installs them. When Obi surged, Tinubu's power flexed—sudden defections, media blitzes, and that infamous "emi lo kan" rally that turned doubters into devotees. In Nigeria, power isn't voted; it's seized. Tinubu's got it in spades.

The Obi Asset: Grassroots Fire, Youth Rage, and Digital Thunder

Enter Peter Obi, the outlier without suits or suitcases of cash. No PDP dynasty, no Lagos vaults—yet he electrified 2023 like no one since June 12. His ace? The Obidient Movement, a grassroots tsunami of youth fury, diaspora dollars, and moral steel. This isn't structure; it's spontaneous combustion—millions of first-time voters, Gen Z hustlers, and fed-up professionals chanting "from consumption to production."

Obi's appeal cuts deep: frugal governor who left Anambra richer, no corruption scandals, and a message of competence over cabal. Social media was his war room—Twitter storms trended #ObidientNation, TikTok mobilized campuses, WhatsApp forwarded his receipts.

In Lagos and Abuja, his rallies dwarfed the rest, powered by volunteers, not vouchers. It's non-traditional warfare: character as currency in a market of thieves. Can it scale? 2023 showed it flips scripts—Obi won urban Nigeria hands down. But rural strongholds? That's the test.

Verdict: Grassroots vs. Goliath—Can Obi Topple the Throne?

Structure endures, power crushes, but Obi's grassroots blaze could incinerate both—if it matures. Atiku's machine grinds slow but sure; Tinubu's fist strikes hard. Obi? He's the wildcard, betting on Nigeria's tired-of-thieves majority. History favors the establishment—Buhari beat Jonathan's structure, Tinubu outpowered all. Yet Obi's 6 million votes signal a shift: youth won't wait forever.

In our winner-takes-all arena, non-traditional wins are rare (ask MKO). Obi needs structure tomorrow—alliances, not just vibes. Provocative truth: He has hope weaponized, but hope starves without power. 2027 beckons—will Obidients build the machine, or fade like Saro's ghost? Nairaland, sound off: Obi 3.0 or status quo forever?

What do you think—can strong character really cash the cheque in Naija politics today? Is it possible for someone with integrity and principles to succeed and make a real difference in the complex world of Nigerian politics? These are important questions to consider as we look at the political landscape in Naija.

Nigeria's political circus has returned with full force, and at the center of the excitement is Peter Obi, the charismatic figurehead of the rapidly growing "Obidient" movement. The former Governor of Anambra State presents himself as the beacon of hope, promising a visionary future characterized by fiscal prudence, data-driven decision-making, and a renewed sense of ethnic unity across the nation.

However, it is crucial to cut through the overwhelming hype and recognize that Obi is not the messianic leader Nigeria desperately needs. While he is undoubtedly a polished and savvy political operator, he is navigating a game that is fundamentally skewed against political outsiders. Given Nigeria’s deeply fractured federal structure, entrenched ethnic divisions, and pervasive elite capture, Obi lacks the resilience and toughness required to steer the country effectively.

Below are six highly compelling and thoroughly ironclad reasons that strongly indicate why he is unlikely to govern Nigeria successfully in the foreseeable future.

Anambra's "Success" Was a Mirage of Selective Metrics

Obi loves touting Anambra as Nigeria's education and health powerhouse, citing WAEC rankings and hospital upgrades. But dig deeper: under his watch, Anambra's internally generated revenue (IGR) was effectively stagnant, moving from {₦}7.7 Billion in 2010 to {₦}8.7 Billion by 2013—a minimal growth of around {13%}.

Meanwhile, states like Lagos exploded IGR by 300%. His "African Star" investments? Sold off quietly post-tenure, yielding little. As analyst Chidi Amuta noted in Vanguard (2014), Obi's frugality was "austerity for show," ignoring infrastructure like the abandoned Onitsha-Owerri road. Nigeria demands builders, not bean-counters.

Igbo Presidency Dream Clashes with Nigeria's Ethnic Math

Obi pitches himself as a unifier, but his 2023 campaign was a thinly veiled Igbo power grab. He overwhelmingly swept the Southeast, gaining well over (85%+ votes) but cratered elsewhere: 1.5% in the Northwest, per INEC data. Quote from Obi's own running mate, Datti Baba-Ahmed: "We will not hand over if Buhari doesn't" (Channels TV, 2023)—a reckless flirtation with post-election chaos that alienated the North.

Nigeria's presidency rotates implicitly: Obasanjo (Southwest), Yar'Adua/Jonathan (North/South-South), Buhari (North). An Igbo leader now? It reignites 1966 pogrom fears. Obi's ethnic math doesn't add up in our zero-sum federation.

Economic Wizardry Without the National Scale Muscle

Obi boasts of leaving ₦75 billion in savings for his successor, but that's pocket change for Nigeria's ₦4.9 trillion 2013 budget. His "move money from abroad" mantra ignores capital flight realities—FDI plunged 40% under Jonathan partly due to insecurity he didn't fix. Political economist Bismarck Rewane critiqued Obi's 2023 manifesto in Financial Nigeria:

"Subnational thrift isn't national strategy; it ignores fiscal federalism." Nigeria needs Obi's hyped 70% local procurement scaled nationally? Laughable amid NNPC cabals and 36 state governors hoarding allocations. He's a state-level accountant, not a federation tamer.

Security Blind Spot: Talk Without the Walk

Obi decries "japa" youth exodus but governed Anambra during its peak kidnapping era—Bakassi Boys vigilantes were his crutch, not elite police squads. INEC's 2023 collation was disrupted in Lagos by his supporters' violence, yet he feigned shock. As ex-IGP Solomon Arase said post-2023 (Punch, 2024), Obi's "youth empowerment" ignores Boko Haram's ideological roots or banditry's ethnic ties.

Quote Obi himself: "Criminality anywhere threatens everywhere" (2023 rally). Fine words, but no blueprint for a nation where 70% of crime is in the North he barely tours. Rulers secure borders; Obi secures votes.

Policy Flip-Flops Expose a Lightweight Core

From Catholic "subsidies are fraud" (2022) to post-election subsidy silence, Obi's principles bend with polls. His 2023 manifesto promised free education—yet Anambra schools under him ranked low in teacher-pupil ratios (UNESCO 2012 data).

Political scientist Jibrin Ibrahim (Premium Times, 2023) called it "populist vagueness": no funding model for universal healthcare in a ₦21 trillion debt economy. Nigeria's core issues—true federalism, restructuring—get lip service; Obi dodges devolving police powers, fearing state anarchy. He's consistent only in campaigning, not governing.

The Labour Party Trap: No Machine for Nigeria's Jungle

Obi's LP won 6 states in 2023, but it's a personal vehicle, not a party. Without godfathers like PDP's Ayu or APC's El-Rufai networks, he'll be eaten alive. Recall Atiku's 2019 LP flirtation crumbling; Obi's post-election lawsuits fizzled at the Supreme Court.

As Reuben Abati wrote (The Cable, 2024), "Obi is a meteor, not a movement—LP has zero structure beyond Twitter." Nigeria's presidency demands patronage webs from Abuja to Sokoto. Obi? A solo act in a cabal arena.

Peter Obi certainly energizes the youth and inspires many with his message, but the reality is that Nigeria's political landscape is far from a polished TED Talk. What the nation truly needs is a street-fighter—a leader who understands the gritty, relentless nature of our brutal politics—not a Sunday school teacher who may lack the toughness required.

His time as governor revealed certain limitations, and attempting to scale those same approaches all the way to Aso Rock would likely magnify those weaknesses, potentially leading to a form of national paralysis. So, the question remains: who is genuinely prepared to have a serious, unfiltered conversation about the kind of leader Nigeria truly needs next?

Naija Twitter, TikTok, and IG are on fire rn over Peller crashing his fresh Benz on Lekki-Epe Expressway after that chilling live where he straight-up said he's ending it all. Bros was shaking, thanking fans, and vowing no harm to others—just himself—amid breakup vibes with Jarvis. Hospitalized now, but is Peller the broken hero we pity, or is Jarvis the one dodging bullets in this endless drama?

Let's unpack the madness

These two have been serving "couple goals" or "red flags on steroids" since forever. Jarvis cried on live accusing Peller of airing her private tea publicly, breaching trust like it's his job. He clapped back calling her secretive, then money laundering accusations flew—her team threatened lawsuits, calling it defamatory trash. They "reconciled," but Jarvis later spilled feeling unsafe at home, him almost hitting her in rage, tormenting her under one roof. Viral push video? Domestic vibes? Kidnap scares? Now this suicide tease and crash—Gehgeh even exposed Peller's obsessive chats about her.

Peller's Side

The "Victim" Crown? Young king rose from nothing to Benz boss via lives and gifts, but love got him depressed, reckless driving, near-suicide. Naija streets screaming "protect Peller, mental health matter!" DJ Chicken taunting? Public begging FRSC/police probe? But bruh, crashing while live-threatening self-harm ain't victimhood—it's a cry for help laced with danger to others on that road. Is fame's pressure breaking him, or is he manipulating sympathy like past "makeups"?

Jarvis's Silent Sufferance

The Actual Victim? [/b]She's "tried her best" per her distressed vid post-crash, but stayed quiet while he spirals. History of tears, threats, feeling trapped—yet [b]she bounces back for content? Naija feminists yelling "leave toxic king!" but fans question if it's all clout-chasing. Real victim or enabler in a cycle of lives, fights, and views?

The Ugly Truth Naija Needs to Face

This ain't romance—it's a public mental health hazard wrapped in influencer flex. TikTok gifts fund drama, not therapy. Peller's crash killed no one (thank God), but what if? Jarvis, run or stay silent killer? Naija, we glorify this mess—views over lives. Who's the real victim? Both? None? Or us, the audience hooked on tragedy? Drop your take below—Peller or Jarvis? Or call it quits on this soap opera? 🔥 #PellerJarvis #NaijaTikTok #RealVictimDebate

Is Nigeria secretly handing over its most sensitive taxpayer information to France under the pretext of technological modernization and improved tax administration?

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on December 10, 2025, between the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) of Nigeria and France's Direction Générale des Finances Publiques (DGFiP) has sparked a heated controversy and widespread debate.

While the FIRS maintains that the agreement is strictly advisory and intended to enhance collaboration and capacity building, critics such as the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) are raising serious concerns. They argue that this partnership represents a dangerous erosion of Nigeria’s sovereignty and may expose the country’s confidential taxpayer data to foreign interference.

The Official Narrative - FIRS's Defense

FIRS Executive Chairman Dr. Zacch Adedeji and French Ambassador Marc Fonbaustier officially signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the French Embassy located in Abuja. This important agreement is aimed at advancing and accelerating the digital transformation of Nigeria's tax administration system.

The collaboration seeks to lay a solid foundation for the upcoming transition to the new Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), which is scheduled to be fully implemented by January 2026. This partnership marks a significant step towards modernizing and enhancing the efficiency of tax collection and management in Nigeria.

Core focus areas include extensive knowledge sharing on AI-powered audits, advanced automated compliance systems, and data-driven enforcement strategies. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on enhancing taxpayer services and strengthening institutional capacity building. These initiatives draw deeply from DGFiP's rich legacy of over a century of expertise, supported by a highly skilled workforce of more than 90,000 professionals dedicated to excellence in public finance management.

No data access: The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) explicitly denies granting France any form of access to raw taxpayer data, digital systems, or operational control over its tax infrastructure. It strongly emphasizes that all Nigerian laws concerning data protection and cybersecurity continue to be fully enforced without exception, including stringent confidentiality provisions that safeguard the privacy and security of taxpayer information at all times.​

Advisory only: The pact is entirely non-intrusive and remains firmly under Nigeria's full control, ensuring that the country's sovereignty and regulatory frameworks are respected. It is designed to work in harmony with existing local technology providers such as NIBSS, Interswitch, Paystack, and Flutterwave, serving to complement their efforts rather than displace or overshadow them in any way. This collaborative approach aims to strengthen the overall digital ecosystem while supporting indigenous businesses.

FIRS describes the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as a "standard, globally recognised cooperation framework" that is designed to establish and develop a modern, efficient, and competitive tax administration system. This framework is intended to be firmly under Nigeria's control and command, ensuring that the country's tax administration is both effective and aligned with international best practices.​

The Core Controversy - Sovereignty Concerns

Public outrage erupted dramatically across various social media platforms, including the widely visited Nairaland forum, where users expressed intense dissatisfaction and concern.

The Northern Elders Forum stepped forward with a strong demand for the immediate termination of the agreement, describing it as a "dangerous tax data agreement" that poses significant threats to the country's economic sovereignty and overall national security. This collective outcry highlights the seriousness with which this issue is being viewed by influential community leaders and the general public alike.

Concerns Over Foreign Influence: Critics have raised significant worries that even the sharing of aggregated data related to transfer pricing and profit-shifting might inadvertently reveal sensitive and strategic economic information to France. They question the rationale behind Nigeria potentially relinquishing such crucial control, especially considering that local Nigerian fintech companies have earned strong global respect and recognition for their innovation and reliability. Many argue that ceding this level of power could undermine Nigeria’s economic sovereignty and expose valuable insights to foreign entities.

Political backlash: The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised significant national security concerns, urgently demanding a complete and transparent disclosure of all the benefits and gains that France stands to obtain from the agreement. The party has also called for an immediate termination of the arrangement, firmly insisting that Nigeria possesses more than enough domestic capacity and expertise to effectively manage its digital tax system without external involvement.

Legislative lapses: The NEF strongly criticized the glaring absence of thorough parliamentary scrutiny, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive data-sovereignty amendments. They warned that this issue transcends ordinary policy concerns and represents a critical matter of national survival that demands immediate and serious attention from all lawmakers and stakeholders involved.

Skeptics view the deal as placing a higher priority on foreign expertise rather than nurturing and relying on homegrown solutions, which could ultimately weaken the country’s fiscal independence and long-term economic sovereignty.​

What Nigerians Stand to Gain (The Trade-Off)

Despite the widespread uproar and strong opposition, proponents of the initiative emphasize the clear and tangible benefits it could bring to Nigeria's tax system, which currently suffers from a woefully low tax-to-GDP ratio of approximately 7-8%.

This figure is significantly lower than that of neighboring countries such as Kenya, where the tax-to-GDP ratio stands at around 17%, and South Africa, which boasts an even higher ratio of about 26%. By modernizing and overhauling this outdated and inefficient tax system, supporters argue that Nigeria can unlock substantial economic potential and improve public revenue collection considerably.

Multinational tracking involves enhanced and coordinated cooperation among international tax authorities focusing on transfer pricing, Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS), and various aspects of international taxation. This collaborative effort aims to effectively curb profit evasion strategies employed by multinational corporations operating across borders without physical presence. By strengthening these measures, governments can significantly improve revenue collection, ensuring that global businesses pay their fair share of taxes in the jurisdictions where they generate profits, thereby supporting more equitable and sustainable economic growth worldwide.

Tech upgrades: Implementing and integrating France's most effective best practices in digital compliance systems alongside comprehensive workforce development initiatives to establish a highly resilient, AI-driven tax administration framework, fully prepared and equipped for the upcoming National Reporting Standard (NRS). This approach ensures that the tax system remains adaptive, efficient, and forward-looking in managing compliance challenges.

Long-term revenue potential: A more robust and efficient tax system could substantially increase the tax-to-GDP ratio, providing a significant boost in government revenues. This increase would enable the funding of critical infrastructure projects and public services without the need to raise existing tax rates. This improvement comes at a time when only about 14 million taxpayers contribute out of a total population of approximately 230 million citizens, highlighting the vast untapped potential within the current tax base.

This strategic partnership uniquely positions Nigeria to significantly leapfrog existing inefficiencies and challenges, paving the way for accelerated progress and development. However, this promising opportunity will only be fully realized if robust safeguards and protective measures are effectively implemented and maintained throughout the process.

A Call to Vigilance

The FIRS-France Memorandum of Understanding represents a high-stakes gamble: pursuing modernization through global expertise while risking national sovereignty even through advisory partnerships. With FIRS refusing to grant access to crucial data and vocal critics such as NEF and ADC calling loudly for full transparency, it is imperative that Nigerians demand thorough parliamentary oversight, complete disclosure of all MoU details, and robust legal protections to safeguard national interests.

Policymakers must demonstrate convincingly that this agreement will strengthen our fiscal capabilities without entangling us in foreign dependencies—there is an urgent need to release the full terms immediately, or they risk provoking widespread outrage on platforms like Nairaland. The survival and sovereignty of the nation depend on nothing less than full openness and accountability in this matter.

Thank you for the feedback. I’m happy it was insightful. If there’s a specific tech career you’d like me to break down further, feel free to let me know

Cyndy123:
insightful thread about top 5 careers in tech for the nigerian youth

Arsenal fans breathed a collective sigh of relief at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, as their team clinched a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. But this wasn't your typical dominant win—the match unfolded like a cruel twist of fate for the visitors, decided entirely by two heartbreaking own goals.

What started as a frustrating stalemate for the Gunners turned into a lifeline, propelling them further clear at the Premier League summit.

A Bizarre Sequence Seals Arsenal's Fate

The game hung in the balance deep into stoppage time. Wolves, mired in a dismal season at the foot of the table, appeared to have pulled off a miracle. In the 91st minute, towering forward Toluwalase Emmanuel Arokodare rose highest to head home an equalizer, sending the traveling supporters into ecstasy and dreaming of a precious point against the league leaders.

Joy turned to despair just three minutes later. A speculative Arsenal cross deflected off Wolves defender Yerson Mosquera and looped into his own net, handing the Gunners an unearned winner in the 94th minute. Earlier, Arsenal's opener in the 70th minute had also come via an own goal—this time from Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, who could only parry a shot into his own path.

For Wolves, it was a gut-punch of Shakespearean proportions. Coming so agonizingly close against the table-toppers only to be robbed by deflections underscored their season-long woes.

Arsenal's Dominance Undone by Wastefulness

On paper, Arsenal should have run away with it. They bossed possession, peppered the Wolves goal with shots, and earned eight corners to their opponents' zero. Mikel Arteta's side controlled the tempo from the opening whistle, pinning Wolves back with relentless pressure.

Yet, the final third proved their Achilles' heel. Despite creating chance after chance, Arsenal lacked that killer instinct. Forwards fluffed opportunities, crosses sailed harmlessly astray, and the crowd grew restless as the score stayed level for so long. It took opponents' blunders—not clinical finishing—to break the deadlock twice.

Arteta will view this as a warning sign. While the result keeps Arsenal's title charge on track, their inability to convert dominance into goals raises red flags ahead of tougher tests.

Implications for the Premier League Table

This gritty win cements Arsenal's stronghold at the top, extending their lead and silencing doubters after a midweek stutter. Wolves, conversely, slump further into the relegation mire, their morale shattered by fine margins that continue to elude them.

Football's beauty lies in its unpredictability, but for Wolves, it's becoming a curse. Manager Gary O'Neil faces mounting pressure as his side searches for survival.

-------------------------------------------------
| Team | Position | Key Stat from Match |
-------------------------------------------------
| Arsenal | 1st | 8 corners, 0 conceded |
| Wolves | 20th | 2 own goals, late equalizer|
-------------------------------------------------

As the Premier League holiday schedule intensifies, Arsenal must sharpen their edge. Wolves? They'll regroup, but time is running out.

In Nigeria, election seasons spark a frenzy of promises—politicians doling out ₦5K, ₦10K, or bags of rice to sway votes. But let's be real: that cash vanishes faster than a Lagos danfo in traffic. By 2027, when the next big elections roll around, the smart ones won't be lining up for handouts. They'll be the indispensable pros earning steady income, commanding respect, and unlocking real potential.

As a digital marketing specialist and tech trainer, I've seen too many talented Nigerians stuck in the begging cycle because they lack marketable skills. Nigeria's education system—from WAEC to NYSC—often leaves graduates underprepared for the digital economy. But you can flip the script.

This post breaks down high-demand skills you can master in 6-12 months, using free or low-cost resources like Cisco Networking Academy, Google Digital Skills, and no-code tools. No degree rewrite needed—just hustle.

Why Skills Trump Election Palava

Nigeria's youth unemployment hovers at 40%+, per NBS data, yet global companies hire remotely for skills like digital marketing and AI basics. Election "empowerment" funds? Temporary. Indispensable skills? Lifelong.

Politicians need campaign managers, social media wizards, data analysts, and network techs during elections. Post-election? Those skills pay bills year-round. Imagine freelancing for US clients on Upwork while local campaigns beg for your expertise. That's the shift: from beggar to boss.

Skill 1: Digital Marketing Mastery – Your Campaign Cash Cow

Nigeria's social media landscape experiences an incredible surge in activity and engagement during election periods, with movements like #EndSARS and #Obidient capturing the attention of millions nationwide. If you can effectively navigate and master this dynamic digital environment, political parties and candidates are often willing to pay you upwards of ₦500,000 or more for each campaign you manage, making it a highly lucrative opportunity..

- Start Free: Enroll in Google Digital Garage (free certification) and HubSpot Academy. Your Facebook Blueprint cert gives you an edge.

Action Steps:

- Build a portfolio: Run a mock campaign for a local politician on Instagram.
- Tools: Canva for graphics, Meta Business Suite for ads.
- Monetize: Freelance on Fiverr or pitch to APC/PDP digital teams.

Timeline: 3 months to first ₦100K gig.

Pro Tip: Considering Nigeria's massive online community of over 100 million internet users, strategically targeting popular election-related hashtags such as #NigeriaDecides2027 can significantly boost your content's chances of going viral and reaching a wider audience. This approach leverages the high engagement rates during election periods to maximize visibility and interaction.

Skill 2: Cisco Networking Certifications – Secure the Digital Backbone

Elections involve extensive use of data centers, campaign websites, and secure communication systems to ensure smooth and transparent processes. Individuals holding CCNA certifications play a crucial role by installing and managing networks for organizations such as INEC, political parties, and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These positions typically offer entry-level salaries starting at around ₦300,000 per month, reflecting the importance and technical expertise required in these roles.

Why Nigeria?

Leading telecom giants such as MTN and Glo are actively hiring skilled CCNA professionals as part of their strategic expansion and development efforts in the ongoing 5G network rollout. These companies are seeking qualified experts to support the complex infrastructure and ensure seamless deployment of next-generation technology across their service areas.

- Free Path: Cisco Networking Academy (you're already exploring this). Self-paced, no tuition.

Action Steps:

- Complete CCNA modules on packet tracer simulations.
- Get certified via Pearson VUE (₦50K exam fee).
- Gig: Set up WiFi for polling units or campaign offices.
- Timeline: 6 months to certification and jobs.

This skill makes you absolutely indispensable in any professional environment—after all, networks and systems don’t operate based on mere promises or good intentions. Reliable execution and consistent follow-through are what truly keep everything running smoothly and efficiently.

Skill 3: PMP-Inspired Project Management – Orchestrate Wins

Campaigns are complex projects that involve detailed timelines, carefully planned budgets, and coordinated teams working together. Applying PMP principles—even without obtaining full certification at this stage—can transform potential chaos into profitable outcomes and streamline the entire process.

- Relevance: Election committees need planners for rallies, voter drives.
- Free Resources: Google Project Management Certificate on Coursera (audit free).

Action Steps:

- Learn Agile/Scrum via PMI free resources.
- Tool: Trello or ClickUp (free tiers).
- Apply: Manage a community event, then scale to political gigs.
- Timeline: 4 months to lead small projects earning ₦200K.

Skill 4: AI & No-Code Animation – Future-Proof Your Hustle

No-code tools such as SVGator or Lottie enable users to create faceless YouTube content or engaging campaign animations without requiring advanced technical skills. These platforms simplify the animation process, allowing creators to produce professional-quality visual content easily and efficiently.

Meanwhile, advanced AI technologies are increasingly being used to match jobs to skills on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn, streamlining the hiring process by connecting candidates with the most suitable opportunities based on their expertise and experience.

- Election Angle: Animated voter education videos go viral.
- Free Path: SVG Circus for animations; ChatGPT for scripts.

Action Steps:

- Build 10-second election explainer vids.
- Upload to YouTube for passive income.
- Freelance: AI-powered candidate matching tools for recruiters.
- Timeline: 2 months to monetized channel.

Your 6-Month Roadmap to Indispensability

| Months | Focus Skill | Milestone | Earnings Potential |
|--------|-----------------|-----------------------------|--------------------|
| 1 - 2  | Digital Mktg.   | Google Cert + Portfolio     | ₦50,000 freelance  |
| 3 - 4  | Cisco CCNA      | Modules Complete            | ₦100,000 Internships |
| 5 - 6  | PMP + AI/No-Code| Projects + YouTube          | ₦200,000+ gigs     |
| 7 - 12 | Combine All     | Election Pitches            | ₦500,000/campaign  |

Track progress on Notion. Join Nigerian communities like Digital Marketing Nigeria on Facebook.

Election-Proof Your Future Now

Stop waiting for unrealistic N5K miracles to change your life. Nigeria's education system has already provided you with the essential basics—now it’s time to level up by gaining valuable skills through credentials that are highly sought after in global markets. By the time 2027 arrives, you will be the candidate that top employers actively pursue, rather than settling for the leftover crumbs from politicians.

Commit today: Choose one valuable skill and dedicate at least 2 hours of focused practice every single day. Your Skilldential journey begins right here—unlock your true potential and growth, not sympathy or pity.

What’s the very first skill you choose to pick? Share your top choice by dropping it in the comments below! We’re excited to see what everyone’s starting with!

Nigeria’s youth are quietly riding a new kind of oil boom: remote tech work paid in dollars, pounds, and euros. With Africa’s remote and freelance work expanding by over 50% since 2020, more young Nigerians are earning abroad while spending locally, turning laptops into ATM machines. In an economy where the cost of living is about 60–65% lower than in the US, even a “moderate” remote salary can convert to millions of naira per year.​

This “quiet millions” phenomenon is powered by global demand for skills like software development, data analysis, UI/UX, product management, and cybersecurity, plus the rise of platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Toptal, and niche remote job boards built with African talent in mind. Many of these roles do not require a foreign degree; a strong portfolio, certifications, and consistent output often matter more than your NYSC posting or class of degree.

Remote Software Developer / Full‑Stack Engineer The “Secret” Advantage

Remote software developers based in Africa now earn some of the highest tech incomes on the continent, with average remote packages for African developers ranging from about 50,000 to well over 120,000 dollars per year depending on seniority and stack. For Nigerians, earning even the lower end of this range while living in a country where costs are far below Western levels means a single remote dev salary can beat the combined income of several local white‑collar jobs.​

Nigeria/Remote Earning Potential

Several datasets show African (including Nigerian) remote developers averaging around 50,000–70,000 dollars annually, with reported ranges stretching from about 24,000 up to over 300,000 dollars per year for highly experienced engineers in premium markets. Converted, that means many Nigerian devs realistically sit in the 20,000–80,000 dollar band (roughly ₦24 million – ₦96 million per year at a 1,200 naira per dollar reference), while top seniors working at global startups can go significantly higher.​

How to Start Today 3 crucial skills/tools to master:

- One strong backend language and framework (for example, JavaScript/TypeScript with Node.js, or Python with Django/FastAPI).​
- Frontend web stack (HTML, CSS, modern JavaScript plus a framework like React or Vue).​
- Git/GitHub for version control and building a public portfolio of real projects.​

2 best platforms for high‑paying work:

- Upwork and Toptal, which both list thousands of remote developer roles and often pay Africa‑competitive global rates.​
- Specialist remote job boards such as Arc.dev or Slashdev, which focus on vetted developers and serious international clients.​

Data Analyst / Business Intelligence Specialist The “Secret” Advantage

Data analysts help companies turn raw numbers into decisions, and this is work that can be done from anywhere with a stable internet connection, making it ideal for Nigerian youth with strong quantitative and Excel skills. Global companies increasingly hire analysts remotely to save costs, while analysts in Nigeria benefit from geo‑arbitrage: earning foreign currency but living with lower local expenses.​

Nigeria/Remote Earning Potential

One global salary tracker puts the median annual pay for remote data analysts hired in Nigeria at around 26,000 dollars, with the upper band for experienced profiles reported above 70,000 dollars. Another remote‑job aggregator finds many remote data roles linked to Nigeria and Africa clustering in the tens of thousands of dollars per year, often higher when working directly with US or European firms. Realistically, a focused Nigerian analyst who builds a strong portfolio can aim for roughly 15,000–60,000 dollars per year (about ₦18 million – ₦72 million).​

How to Start Today 3 crucial skills/tools to master:

- Spreadsheets and SQL (Excel/Google Sheets plus SQL for querying databases).​
- A data analytics language or BI tool such as Python (pandas) or Power BI/Tableau for dashboards.​
-Basic statistics and business storytelling so you can explain the “why” behind the charts.​

2 best platforms for high‑paying work:

- Global remote job boards like RemoteRocketship and Plane‑powered listings, which track remote data analyst roles and compensation.​
- General freelance marketplaces such as Upwork, where analytics, reporting, dashboard building, and Excel automation gigs are in constant demand.​

UI/UX and Product Designer The “Secret” Advantage

As more startups and fintechs fight for users’ attention, good interface and experience design has become a premium skill, and it is often easier for Nigerians to enter compared to hardcore software engineering because you can start with low‑code tools and strong visual sense. Many design teams are fully distributed, so a designer in Lagos working with Figma can earn in dollars just like a designer in London, while enjoying far lower monthly expenses.​

Nigeria/Remote Earning Potential

Recent salary benchmarks show remote UI/UX designers in global markets earning average base compensation in the 60,000–120,000 dollar per year range, with senior and niche product designers going higher. Even mid‑level remote designers who land roles in international startups often sit around 40,000–80,000 dollars annually (roughly ₦48 million – ₦96 million), while high‑end freelance contracts can push total earnings above that with recurring clients.​

How to Start Today 3 crucial skills/tools to master:

- Figma or similar design tools (for wireframes, prototypes, and design systems).​
- UX fundamentals: user research, information architecture, user flows, and usability testing.​
- A portfolio website showing case studies for mobile and web products relevant to African and global users.​

2 best platforms for high‑paying work:

- Design‑friendly job boards and startup platforms like Wellfound (formerly AngelList Talent) and Built In’s remote design listings.​
- General freelance/remote platforms such as Upwork and Toptal, where UI/UX projects for SaaS, fintech, and e‑commerce are heavily represented.​

Product Manager (Digital and SaaS Products) The “Secret” Advantage

Product management lets Nigerians sit at the “control tower” of digital products without writing code all day, coordinating developers, designers, and marketers to ship features users love. Because PM skills are transferable across markets, a Nigerian PM who understands both local realities (e.g., unreliable power, USSD culture) and global user expectations can become invaluable to startups looking to scale into Africa and beyond.​

Nigeria/Remote Earning Potential

Recent analyses of remote PM pay show average base salaries for remote product managers in tech hovering around 140,000–150,000 dollars per year, with total compensation (including bonuses and stock) often going higher. Even if companies adjust pay downwards for lower‑cost locations, many remote PMs still earn in the 70,000–150,000 dollar zone, which for a Nigerian youth translates to tens of millions of naira per year plus career‑changing exposure.​

How to Start Today 3 crucial skills/tools to master:

- Product discovery and prioritisation (customer interviews, backlog management, writing clear user stories).​
- Analytics and experimentation using tools like Mixpanel, Google Analytics, or similar to track feature impact.​
- Modern collaboration tools (Jira/Trello, Notion, Slack) and basic understanding of software development and UX.​

2 best platforms for high‑paying work:

- Global tech job boards such as Built In, which track remote PM roles and compensation data across startups and scale‑ups.​
- LinkedIn Jobs, where many distributed product roles are advertised, including those open to candidates anywhere in Africa.​

Cybersecurity Analyst / Engineer The “Secret” Advantage

As African companies, banks, and governments go digital, cyber‑attacks and fraud attempts have surged, making cybersecurity one of the fastest‑growing tech specialties on the continent. For Nigerian youth with strong problem‑solving skills, this field offers both remote gigs for global firms and hybrid roles with African organisations desperate to protect their data.​

Nigeria/Remote Earning Potential

Salary trackers show cybersecurity analysts in major African markets like South Africa earning average base pay in the mid‑hundreds of thousands of rand annually, with experienced professionals reaching much higher. Global sources also project cybersecurity jobs in Africa to grow rapidly year‑on‑year, and remote postings targeted at African talent often quote dollar salaries competitive with other mid‑to‑senior tech roles, putting realistic earnings for strong Nigerian analysts in the 25,000–80,000 dollar per year range.​

How to Start Today 3 crucial skills/tools to master:

- Core networking and operating system concepts, plus basic scripting (for example, Python or Bash).​
- Security fundamentals and tools such as vulnerability scanning, incident response, and SIEM platforms.​
- Recognised certifications over time (for example, CompTIA Security+, and later CEH or CISSP) to signal credibility globally.​

2 best platforms for high‑paying work:

- Specialist remote‑job aggregators focused on Africa, which host cybersecurity roles open to remote and hybrid candidates across the continent.​
- Global platforms such as LinkedIn and niche security job boards that increasingly accept applicants from Africa for fully remote roles.​

Final Word: Your Laptop Is Now a Global Office

Remote tech work has quietly transformed thousands of Nigerian youth into dollar earners, providing them with valuable income opportunities despite the persistently high official unemployment numbers. Many graduates still roam the streets carrying brown envelopes, symbolizing their ongoing job search struggles, yet a growing number have found success in the digital economy.

The real question is not whether people are making millions online, but whether you are prepared to invest the next 12 to 24 months dedicating yourself to learning one of these highly sought-after skills, building a strong and visible portfolio that showcases your talents, and persistently applying on the right platforms. By doing so, you could turn your own story of earning “quiet millions” into the next inspiring case study that motivates others.

Rankings that include Dapo Abiodun's name come from media outlets, analysts, or government reports, and these are based on their own criteria.

At the same time, calling him “the worst governor” is an opinion, not a fact. Some people strongly criticise his performance, while others highlight his projects and achievements.

pdppower:
It seems Dapo Abiodun paid you to include his name among performing governors. He should actually be the worst among them

I understand your concerns, and you are right that the way some states enforce IGR—especially through touts, harassment, and non-transparent collection systems—is absolutely wrong and deserves to be condemned. No citizen should be intimidated or exploited in the name of revenue.

However, it is important to separate the concept of IGR from the abuse of IGR.

Every responsible society funds public services through some form of revenue: schools, hospitals, roads, sanitation, and security all depend on internally generated funds. In economics and development planning, IGR is not considered “evil”; it is simply a measure of how much a state can sustain itself without depending entirely on federal allocation.

The real issue is not whether IGR exists but how it is collected and how it is used.

A high IGR can reflect:

- A growing business environment
- Better tax administration (not thuggery)
- More formalized economic activities
- Increased accountability in government finances

If the collection process is corrupt or abusive, the solution is reform, not total rejection. What we should be demanding is:

- Transparent, technology-driven tax systems
- Elimination of touts and agberos in revenue collection
- Clear communication on where taxes are going
- Policies that make taxation fair, humane, and productive

Condemning IGR itself is like condemning electricity because some people steal wires. The issue is misuse, not the concept.

- A state without IGR cannot provide development, cannot pay salaries reliably, and cannot grow its economy.
- A state with ethical, transparent, citizen-friendly IGR stands a far better chance of real development.

thisisit:
WHEN DID IGR BECOME A DEVELOPMENT INDEX?
IGR IS EVIL AND UNETHICAL
IGR IS A DEMONIC AND CRUDE TAXATION WHICH ORIGINATED FROM LAGOS .. IT USES UNETHICAL AND INHUMAN MEANS SUCH AS TOUTS, THUGS, AGBEROS AND ICT TO EXPLOIT UNSUSPECTING CITIZENS.

IGR OR TAXATION MUST BE REJECTED AS AN INDICES OF GROWTH OR DEVELOPMENT

Nigeria is drowning in record debt, mass poverty, and a security crisis that has turned many states into war zones, yet some governors are quietly delivering real projects while others are burning through allocations with nothing to show. This ranking leans on hard data like IGR growth, fiscal sustainability, and capital-expenditure performance from sources such as BudgIT, NBS, and reputable media—not party noise or social media PR.​

In plain terms, some governors are delivering, while others are wasting their mandate and steering their states into a debt-and-poverty trap. The “heroes” below are not perfect, but they show verifiable movement on revenue, infrastructure, and budget discipline, while the “failures” are either deep in debt, starving capital projects, or presiding over states with collapsing services.

The 10 Heroes (Top Performers)

10. Zamfara – Dauda Lawal

Zamfara recorded a stunning over 240% surge in IGR, moving from the bottom of the national IGR ranking to mid-table in BudgIT’s 2024 State of States report, a rare turnaround for a conflict-hit state. This kind of revenue leap is the difference between a state that is serious about survival and one that is content to beg Abuja forever.​

9. Enugu – Peter Mbah

Enugu is listed among states allocating over 85% of their budgets to capital projects, showing an aggressive push for infrastructure over recurrent waste. In a country where many governors hide under salaries and overhead, that high capital-expenditure focus marks Enugu as one of the outliers actually trying to build.​

8. Imo – Hope Uzodimma

Imo also sits in the group of “aspiring spenders on capital projects,” with more than 85% of its budget reportedly directed at infrastructure, according to independent budget analysis. Whatever anyone thinks about politics in Owerri, that kind of capital-heavy budgeting is the opposite of the usual Nigerian style of consuming everything and building nothing.​

7. Niger – Mohammed Umaru Bago

Niger State is highlighted for very high capital-expenditure ambition, with over 85% of its budget tied to infrastructural development, even though past budget performance exposed major gaps. The intent to push hard on capital projects in a state that previously implemented barely around 40% of its budget shows a break from the old “sleep and collect allocation” attitude.​

6. Anambra – Charles Soludo

Anambra reportedly channels about 44–45% of its budget into capital projects, a level that places it above many states that prefer to pour money into salaries and political overhead. In a small but commercially strategic state, this tilt toward infrastructure rather than pure consumption is a deliberate development signal.​

5. Jigawa – Umar Namadi

Jigawa is listed among states with notable capital-expenditure allocation, dedicating over 30% of its budget to infrastructure, which keeps it ahead of many peers in the North. In a region battling poverty and low human development indices, that sort of capital focus is one of the few rational paths out of dependency.​

4. Ogun – Dapo Abiodun

Ogun State commits about 26–27% of its budget to capital projects, as reported in national budget-performance reviews, while maintaining a diversified IGR base driven by industry and proximity to Lagos. For a state often underrated in the national conversation, this balance of revenue and infrastructure spending shows quiet, data-backed performance rather than loud propaganda.​

3. Rivers – Siminalayi Fubara

Rivers State tops BudgIT’s 2024 State of States fiscal-performance ranking, indicating strong revenue capacity and relatively sustainable debt management. In real terms, Rivers is one of the few states that is not just rich on paper but is rated as fiscally stable, meaning it has room to fund projects without collapsing under debt.​

2. FCT (Minister, but key benchmark) – Nyesom Wike

The FCT ranks among the very top in IGR volume, with over N200 billion generated in 2023 according to NBS, placing it just behind Lagos in internal revenue. The combination of strong revenue performance and continuous visible projects in the capital makes the FCT a benchmark for what is possible when a territory actually collects and deploys its own money.​

1. Lagos – Babajide Sanwo-Olu

Lagos remains Nigeria’s undisputed IGR champion, generating over N800 billion in 2023—far above any other state—while allocating more than 60% of its budget to capital expenditure, including massive transport and urban projects. Whatever the arguments about cost of living, on raw numbers Lagos is the clearest example of a subnational government combining huge revenue with a strong capital-spending ratio, not just swallowing everything in salaries.​

The 5 Absolute Failures (Bottom Performers)

5. Taraba – Agbu Kefas

Taraba appears at the bottom of the NBS IGR ranking, posting one of the lowest internally generated revenues in the entire country despite decades of existence and natural resources. When a state’s IGR is languishing around the very bottom while poverty stays high, that is a textbook case of wasted mandate.​

4. Yobe – Mai Mala Buni

Yobe is flagged at the bottom of a national ranking of state budgets, pairing low capacity with weak development outcomes. A state with such fragile education and health indicators cannot afford this kind of fiscal weakness, yet its budget profile screams chronic underperformance.​

3. Gombe – Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya

Gombe is listed near the bottom, just above Yobe, in assessments of state budgets and fiscal strength, signaling a serious gap between projected spending and actual developmental impact. In a region needing aggressive capital investment, this pattern looks less like leadership and more like steady drift toward a debt-and-poverty trap.​

2. Ekiti – Biodun Oyebanji

Ekiti is singled out among states that prioritise salaries and operational costs over development, with analysts questioning why so little is channeled to capital projects compared to peers. When a small, education-driven state starves infrastructure while pumping money into recurrent costs, it is effectively choosing short-term political comfort over long-term growth—a strategic failure.​

1. Osun – Ademola Adeleke (Absolute Worst)

Osun is explicitly mentioned as a state that tilts spending heavily toward salaries and overhead instead of capital projects, even as its debt and revenue challenges persist. In a nation battling infrastructure decay, this kind of budget structure is a total disaster, locking the state into a cycle where money is consumed, not invested, and future generations are left to pay the bill.

In Summary

The numbers show a brutal divide: some governors are pushing high IGR, strong fiscal rankings, and heavy capital spending, while others are content with low revenue, weak budgets, and a consumption mentality that guarantees more poverty and debt. In the same country, under the same federal structure, one group is clearly delivering, and the other is simply stealing time and opportunity from their citizens.​

Do you agree with this brutal assessment, or is your governor on the wrong list? Which governor do you personally consider the worst performer we missed, and what specific facts or projects can you bring to prove it on Nairaland?​

Are you sure!

mrvitalis:
Lol everyone know Obi won Tinubu with 22 governors had to rig like a fool to win

Obi beat am blue black for Lagos

The countdown to the 2027 Presidential Election has officially begun, and the political atmosphere is thick with the scent of a brewing battle. The central, unavoidable question is simple, yet revolutionary:

Who can Dethrone the Jagaban?

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is an institution—a political force whose dominance has shaped the South-West and national politics for decades. But for the first time in his tenure, the 'Renewed Hope' agenda is being severely tested by skyrocketing inflation, security crises, and a frustrated populace seeking immediate relief.

The opposition sees blood in the water. From Atiku to Obi to emerging dark horses, a new coalition is actively trying to consolidate its power and present a united front. Join us as we conduct an early, no-holds-barred analysis of the political calculus: assessing the incumbent's shield, the challenger's sword, and the unpredictable variables that will determine Nigeria's leadership in 2027.

Incumbent's Vulnerabilities and Strengths

President Bola Tinubu holds a notably strong and influential position as he heads into the 2027 political landscape, primarily due to the continued dominance of the APC party and the significant policy gains achieved under his leadership. However, despite these strengths, ongoing economic challenges and persistent security gaps present substantial risks that could undermine his administration’s stability and public support moving forward.

Strengths

- The APC currently controls the majority of states across the country and benefits from support that spans multiple political parties, including endorsements from governors representing various regions. This strong position is further reinforced by a significant number of defections from opposing parties as well as influential endorsements coming from the Southwest region, both of which have considerably boosted the party’s standing and prospects. These combined factors have played a crucial role in enhancing the party’s influence and political reach nationwide.​

- Economic reforms such as the implementation of unified exchange rates, a significant increase in non-oil revenues, and the reduction of the fiscal deficit from 5.4% to 3.0% of GDP in 2024 clearly demonstrate substantial and tangible progress. These measures highlight the government's commitment to strengthening the economy and improving fiscal stability, reflecting a positive trajectory for future growth and development.​

- Strong and enthusiastic regional backing from Southwest governors and influential leaders, combined with a powerful nationwide mobilization effort that emphasizes critical infrastructure developments and enhanced security improvements across various sectors.​

- Incumbency advantages, which include strong ministerial roles and well-established party structures, firmly position him as the clear frontrunner according to many political analysts and experts. These factors contribute significantly to his leading status in the race, making him the most favored candidate to win the upcoming 2027 election, as noted by observers closely following the political landscape.​

Vulnerabilities

- Persistent inflation soaring beyond 23%, the sharp devaluation of the Naira to an alarming rate of N1,510 per dollar, and the complete removal of subsidies have collectively intensified a severe and widespread cost-of-living crisis affecting millions. ​

- Since the beginning of 2023, there have been over 10,217 reported deaths resulting from attacks carried out by various armed groups, which seriously undermine any official claims of improved security. Despite governmental assurances, incidents of banditry and kidnappings continue to occur frequently, highlighting the ongoing challenges to safety and stability in the region.​

- Multidimensional poverty, impacting more than 133 million people, alongside a sharp surge in unemployment rates, continues to significantly weaken public trust in the government and its economic policies. These pressing issues have created a challenging environment for many citizens who are struggling to meet their basic needs and secure stable employment. The widespread economic hardships have led to increased skepticism and diminished confidence in the government's ability to effectively manage the nation's economic performance and improve living conditions. ​

- The internal culture of imposing decisions within the APC, combined with the disorganized opposition, has drawn significant critiques that have the potential to seriously undermine the cohesion of the party's base. These critiques highlight ongoing tensions and dissatisfaction that could gradually erode the unity and collective strength that the party relies on for its continued success and influence. The resulting fragmentation within the party's core supporters may lead to challenges in maintaining a solid and unified front moving forward. ​

Top Three Potential Dethroners

Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and Nasir El-Rufai have emerged prominently as the leading challengers through the ongoing ADC coalition discussions, frequently mentioned in numerous analyses and reports concerning the 2025 elections. Their names consistently appear as key contenders shaping the political landscape in the lead-up to the electoral season.​

Peter Obi

Key Advantage: The candidate possesses an unmatched appeal among the youth, coupled with a strong anti-establishment vibe that resonates deeply with younger voters. This unique combination is causing considerable concern for the APC, as it is reflected most prominently in the current polls where the candidate is gaining significant traction. ​

Path to Victory: Building a dynamic coalition between the youth and urban populations in the South-East and South-South regions, capitalizing on the impressive 25% vote share achieved in 2023. This strategy aims to broaden support by extending outreach and influence into the critical North-Central swing states, which hold significant potential to sway the overall election outcome. By effectively mobilizing these diverse voter bases, the coalition seeks to create a powerful and inclusive movement capable of securing victory in future elections.​

Atiku Abubakar

Path to Victory: The coalition of North-North Muslim groups joined forces with Southern minority communities, creating a powerful alliance that builds upon the strong foundation of 29% of the votes secured in 2023 through the ADC platform. This strategic partnership aims to unite diverse voices and interests to increase their influence and achieve greater political success in future elections. ​

Key Advantage: The veteran stature combined with extensive Northern networks provides a significant strategic edge, enabling a broad and impactful realignment of the opposition. This advantage allows for the creation of new alliances and partnerships that can reshape the political landscape on a much larger scale than before.​

Nasir El-Rufai

Path to Victory: Achieving dominance in the North-West region combined with selecting a strong Southern running mate creates a powerful strategy. This approach disrupts the political landscape effectively through coalition support, even without launching a full-fledged candidacy. ​

Key Advantage: Possessing strong disruptor credentials combined with significant appeal across multiple political parties, he is uniquely positioned either as a kingmaker or a serious contender in the political arena. This dual capability enhances his influence and strategic importance in upcoming elections.​

Black Swan Factors

INEC/Electoral Reforms: The 2025 Electoral Bill introduces several significant proposals, including the introduction of digital voter identification cards, the implementation of much tougher penalties for those found guilty of falsifying election results, the allowance of early voting for certain categories of voters, and the requirement for regular audits by INEC to ensure transparency and accuracy. These measures have the potential to greatly enhance the credibility and integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process. However, if the bill is not passed in a timely manner, these reforms could lead to delays in the electoral timeline, creating uncertainty and logistical challenges for the upcoming elections.​

Opposition Unity: The ADC coalition, which brings together key figures Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai, has the potential to unify the fragmented opposition votes from the 2023 elections, which together accounted for approximately 54% of the total vote share. This united front could present a formidable challenge to Tinubu’s 37% support base. However, the coalition’s success faces significant obstacles, as resistance from the PDP and LP parties threatens to undermine the viability and effectiveness of this alliance. The dynamics within these parties and their willingness to collaborate will be crucial in determining the coalition’s ultimate impact.​

Socio-Economic Shock: Significant fluctuations in oil prices, sudden crashes in the value of the Naira, or a marked increase in insecurity could greatly intensify economic hardship for many citizens. These challenges have the potential to severely undermine public sentiment, shifting it strongly against ongoing reforms, even when those reforms yield measurable fiscal improvements. The combination of these factors could create a difficult environment where the benefits of economic policies are overshadowed by everyday struggles and concerns about safety. ​

Tinubu's incumbency combined with the well-organized APC machinery currently position him as the clear favorite for the 2027 reelection, based on prevailing trends and political dynamics.

Nevertheless, if a strong opposition coalition led by the ADC emerges, effectively capitalizing on widespread economic hardships and public dissatisfaction, it could significantly reduce his lead and make the race much more competitive. Unless there are major unforeseen events or shocks that disrupt the political landscape, Tinubu's advantages are expected to hold, though likely by only a narrow and closely contested margin.