COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AT THE END OF THE SUBNATIONAL CONSULTATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT WITH THE PRESIDENTIAL TAX REFORM COMMITTEE.
We, members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (@NGFSecretariat) and presidential tax reform committee, convened on the 16th of January 2025 to deliberate on critical national issues, including the reform of Nigeria’s fiscal policies and tax system, and arrived at the following resolutions:
1. The Forum reiterated its strong support for the comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s archaic tax laws. Members acknowledged the importance of modernizing the tax system to enhance fiscal stability and align with global best practices.
2. The Forum endorsed a revised Value Added Tax (VAT) sharing formula to ensure equitable distribution of resources:
•50% based on equality, •30% based on derivation, and •20% based on population.
3. Members agreed that there should be no increase in the VAT rate or reduction in Corporate Income Tax (CIT) at this time, to maintain economic stability. The Forum advocated for the continued exemption of essential goods and agricultural produce from VAT to safeguard the welfare of citizens and promote agricultural productivity.
4. The meeting recommended that there should be no terminal clause for TETFUND, NASENI, and NITDA in the sharing of development levies in the bills.
5. The meeting supports the continuation of the legislative process at the National Assembly that will culminate in the eventual passage of the Tax Reform Bills.
𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝 H.E. @RealAARahman CON Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum & Governor of Kwara State.
Peter obi posted about Armed Forces Remembrance Day. He tweeted about it at 2:27 yesterday afternoon and this was the tweet.
Peter Obi @PeterObi
Today, our dear nation commemorates Armed Forces Remembrance Day—a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring our fallen military heroes, veterans, and active service members.
I join millions of Nigerians in expressing profound gratitude to these gallant individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the peace and security of our beloved nation.
I also extend my heartfelt encouragement to our active-duty military personnel stationed on various frontlines, bravely combating the scourge of insecurity across the country.
Your sacrifices are deeply appreciated.
As we face these challenging times, I urge you to remain steadfast and resolute in your noble mission to secure the future of our nation.
Furthermore, I call on the government to prioritize the welfare of our military personnel by ensuring access to quality healthcare for them and their families, as well as education for their children. These essential measures will inspire greater commitment and reinforce their dedication to building a safer and better Nigeria.
Today, we honor the sacrifices of our Armed Forces and their families with respect and gratitude.
Our Armed Forces have stood firm against external threats, domestic challenges, and growing insecurity. Whether combating terrorism, protecting our boarders, or contributing to peacekeeping missions, their courage and professionalism inspire us all.
Let us also remember the ultimate sacrifice made by those who gave their lives in the service of our nation. These heroes, though no longer with us, have left a legacy in the secure future they helped build. To their families, we acknowledge your loss as a sacrifice shared by the entire nation. Edo State and Nigeria will never forget your loved ones.
As we honor our heroes today and always, we must recommit ourselves to supporting those who serve and their families. In Edo State, we pledge to continue programs that empower veterans and support the widows and orphans of the fallen, ensuring that their sacrifices are honored not only in words but in actions.
Let us look forward with hope, inspired by the courage of our heroes and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. Together, we can create a nation that honors its past and fulfills its potential for future generations.
To the gallant Armed Forces and their families, thank you for your service and sacrifice.
Edo State salutes you, Nigeria salutes you, and history will remember you.
May the souls of our fallen heroes rest in peace, and may their sacrifices never be in vain.
God Bless Edo State God Bless the Nigerian Armed Forces God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Today, we gathered in Umuahia to mark the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. This solemn event served as an important reminder of the immense sacrifices made by our brave servicemen and women who have selflessly defended our nation and upheld the principles of freedom, peace, and justice.
We honour with profound gratitude the courageous servicemen who lost their lives in active duty in different parts of the State over the past year: Staff Sergeant Charles Ugochukwu, Sergeant Bala Abraham, Corporal Ugwu Gideon, Corporal Ikpeama Ikechukwu, Lance Corporal Augustine Emmanuel, and Lance Corporal Owolabi Ojo. We also pay tribute to Sergeant Ojo Godwin, Corporal Aliu Sunday, and Lance Corporal Akhide Sunday.
While we mourn their loss, we also celebrate the values that drove them to serve our fatherland. We must choose valour over fear and stand resolute against the threats posed by extremists and violent criminals. Our cause is just, and we shall prevail in our quest for sovereignty, peace, and stability.
Let us renew our commitment to national values that promote justice, reject corruption, and uphold meritocracy and patriotism. We urge the officers and men of the Nigerian military to exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct, respecting citizens' rights. Our servicemen and women must always uphold the ethos of their profession and the reputation of their institutions.
As a State, we will continue to collaborate closely with the military and security agencies to ensure Abia remains a safe destination for all. I appreciate the unwavering commitment of our security establishments and their partnership in maintaining the safety of our land.
We thank them for their support, and may God bless our Armed Forces and the great state of Abia.
Today, we gather to honour the memories of our fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in defense of our nation. As we commemorate this Armed Forces Remembrance Day, we are reminded of the sacrifices they made for our freedom and security.
We remember the brave men and women who have served our nation with distinction, and those who continue to serve with valor and dedication. We acknowledge the sacrifices of our gallant men of the Anambra State Vigilante group, who have had to endure the pain of separation, the anxiety of uncertainty, and the grief of loss.
In Anambra State, we are not immune to the security challenges plaguing our nation. The menace of insecurity has threatened our peace, stability, and prosperity. However, as wage this war against the enemies of our collective peace, we must recognize that they are familiar foes who do not deserve any form of support or cover from us.
We are also implementing a comprehensive security strategy that involves community policing, intelligence gathering, and swift response to security threats. Our aim is to create a secure environment that enables our people to live their lives without fear, and to pursue their livelihoods with confidence.
I urge you all to cooperate with our security agencies. They are our friends and allies in the quest for peace and security. Let us continue to support them as they work tirelessly to protect us.
To the families of our fallen heroes, we owe you a debt of gratitude. We will continue to support you and ensure that the sacrifices of your loved ones are not in vain.
As we remember our fallen heroes, let us also reflect on the values they represented: courage, sacrifice, loyalty, and patriotism. Let us strive to emulate these values in our daily lives, and to work towards a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure future for ourselves and for generations to come.
Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, represented Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu today at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Parade and Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Remembrance Arcade, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
Representing His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived at the wreath-laying ceremony for the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration at the National Arcade, Eagle Square, Abuja. #ArmedForcesRemebrance2025
Representing His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived at the wreath-laying ceremony for the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration at the National… pic.twitter.com/tYCaGkIX0A
Vice President Kashim Shettima @officialSKSM has laid the wreath at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration at the National Arcade, Eagle Square, Abuja, representing His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu @officialABAT, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. #ArmedForcesRemebrance2025
Vice President Kashim Shettima @officialSKSM has laid the wreath at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration at the National Arcade, Eagle Square, Abuja, representing His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu @officialABAT, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of… pic.twitter.com/zMUFLIzWGJ
Vice President Kashim Shettima @officialSKSM has released the ceremonial pigeons at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration at the National Arcade, Eagle Square, Abuja, representing His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu @officialABAT, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. #ArmedForcesRemebrance2025
Vice President Kashim Shettima @officialSKSM has released the ceremonial pigeons at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration at the National Arcade, Eagle Square, Abuja, representing His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu @officialABAT, President and Commander-in-Chief of the… pic.twitter.com/5LmluCp6T6
Vice President @KashimSM today led the nation in commemorating the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the National Arcade in Abuja. Representing President @officialABAT, the Vice President participated in the solemn wreath-laying ceremony, paying tribute to Nigeria’s fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
The ceremony was attended by key government and military officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, @OfficialBenKalu; Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun; Minister of Defence, @Mohammed_Badaru; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, @GovWike; and Minister of State for Defence, @Bellomatawalle1.
Also present were service chiefs, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar; and Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
During the ceremony, Vice President Shettima laid a wreath at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a gesture symbolizing the nation’s deep gratitude to those who gave their lives for peace and security. The event featured traditional military rituals, including a gun salute and the release of white pigeons by the Vice President, symbolizing peace and unity. Prayers were offered for the souls of the departed, followed by a minute of silence in their honor.
On this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed annually on January 15, I commemorate the sacrifices of our brave men and women in uniform. Their labor and sacrifices will never be forgotten. Nigerians owe them eternal gratitude, especially those who paid the ultimate price to protect their countrymen.
I call for greater support and cooperation for the Nigerian Armed Forces in their tireless efforts to safeguard lives and property across the country.
As Nigerians remember the fallen heroes of the Armed Forces, the government remains committed to strengthening security institutions to ensure the unity and prosperity of the nation.
It is important to note that there can be no economic growth or stability without the safety of lives and investments. Security is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of all citizens, not just government agencies.
As the security and welfare of citizens remain a primary responsibility of the government, the 10th House will continue to prioritize the needs of security and safety agencies. Additionally, I call for better welfare packages for the families of our fallen heroes and pray for their comfort in these trying times.
Finally, I urge members of the Armed Forces, especially those on the frontlines, to remain steadfast in their patriotic duty to secure the nation, driven by a spirit of sacrifice and dedication.
The Oyo State Government joins all Nigerians to remember and honour the brave men and women of the armed forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and peace. Their courage and dedication inspire us all.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on their sacrifices and show our gratitude for their service.
Today, on Armed Forces Remembrance Day 2025, we honour the bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism of our fallen heroes who gave their all for the peace and unity of Nigeria. Their courage reminds us of the price of freedom and our duty to protect it.
As Governor of Lagos State, I reaffirm our commitment to supporting the families of our fallen heroes and our veterans. Let us all remember their sacrifice and work together to build a nation worthy of their selfless service.
On this #ArmedForcesRememberance2025, I pay tribute to the sacrifices of the men and women in uniform. May their sacrifices never be in vain. #ThankASoldier. -AA
Today, our dear nation commemorates Armed Forces Remembrance Day—a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring our fallen military heroes, veterans, and active service members.
I join millions of Nigerians in expressing profound gratitude to these gallant individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the peace and security of our beloved nation.
I also extend my heartfelt encouragement to our active-duty military personnel stationed on various frontlines, bravely combating the scourge of insecurity across the country.
Your sacrifices are deeply appreciated.
As we face these challenging times, I urge you to remain steadfast and resolute in your noble mission to secure the future of our nation.
Furthermore, I call on the government to prioritize the welfare of our military personnel by ensuring access to quality healthcare for them and their families, as well as education for their children. These essential measures will inspire greater commitment and reinforce their dedication to building a safer and better Nigeria.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day allows us to express our gratitude and pay tribute to our ex-servicemen and women who selflessly sacrificed their lives to defend the territorial integrity of Nigeria and other nations.
Our nation is in dire need of peace, and so is the World. As we mark this solemn event today, remember that people laid down their lives, and many still do so to guarantee our peaceful co-existence.
Therefore, let us eschew violence and divisive tendencies for a peaceful and prosperous nation. Let us all become ambassadors of peace. We can build a future of hope and optimism together, where peace and unity reign supreme.
Thank you, and long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day allows us to express our gratitude and pay tribute to our ex-servicemen and women who selflessly sacrificed their lives to defend the territorial integrity of Nigeria and other nations.
Today, we honor the courage and sacrifices of our gallant Armed Forces who selflessly made the ultimate sacrifice to defende the territorial integrity of Nigeria and guarantee our peaceful coexistence. The 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day is a solemn reminder of the bravery of those who laid down their lives in service to our nation and global peace.
As we mark this day, I call on all Nigerians to reciprocate their sacrifices by supporting our officers, veterans, and the families of our fallen heroes. Their welfare and well-being must remain a priority for us all.
Our government remains steadfast in providing modern weapons and ensuring proactive operations through improved synergy among our security and intelligence communities. Together, we can build a future of peace, unity, and optimism for generations to come.
I wrote this for the British, Commonwealth, French and American Remembrance Day, which is on November 11th.
naptu2: Nigerian troops in the two world wars and why the Nigerian High Commissioner will lay a wreath today.
Kamerun was colonised by Germany, so there were concerns with the outbreak of World War 1 that Nigeria could be attacked by Kamerun/Germany. Troops were mobilised for the defence of Nigeria and for action against Kamerun/Germany. The war on Nigeria's eastern front raged between 1914-1916. Nigerian troops captured Yaounde and Douala and were able to drive the Germans to Spanish Guinea (now Equatorial Guinea) where they were disarmed. The Royal Navy sent some warships to Nigeria to assist with the campaign.
Germany also colonised Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania and parts of Kenya, so Nigerian troops were also deployed to East Africa to fight against the Germans. This phase of the war lasted from 1916-1918 and resulted in a victory for the allies (British Empire [Indians, East, West and South Africans], Belgian and Portuguese forces). At least 2,700 Nigerians died in this campaign.
Nigerians also famously fought in the 2nd World War. Nigerian troops were deployed in 1940 to participate in the defence of Kenya. They also fought in Abyssinia (Ethiopia), Somalia and Sudan. They returned to Nigeria in 1941.
Back in Nigeria, they were deployed to the northern and western borders after France fell, to prevent a possible attack by the Vichy French (there were concerns that the Vichy French would try to invade Nigeria and this resulted in several false alarms in 1941 and 1942).
Their most famous battles in the war were in India and Burma between 1943 - 1945. Many famous Nigerian soldiers, such as Sergeant Hama Kim, Wellington Bassey and Johnson Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi, fought in this phase of the war. They were engaged in intense and brutal fighting against the Japanese in awful conditions.
The BBC has produced several documentaries (on tv and radio) about the exploits of these Africans in South-East Asia. A British journalist, Barnaby Philips, produced a documentary for Al-Jazeera in 2012 called "Burma Boy" in which he tracked down a Nigerian soldier that fought in Burma during World War 2 and got him to tell his story. He also tracked down the children of the Burmese man who sheltered the Nigerian soldier when he got injured and the Japanese were looking for him. Barnaby Philips also wrote a book about Nigerian soldiers who fought in Burma. It's titled "Another Man's War".
Many Nigerian sitcoms in the 1970s and 1980s had a character that was a former major who fought in the 2nd World War (usually in Burma, but also in the Carribeans), eg Sura Di Tailor, Second Chance and Village Headmaster.
Many Nigerian graves remain in cemeteries at the Dalet Chaung near Tamandu, the Rangoon Memorial and the Taukkyan War Cemetery in Burma.
Several barracks in Nigeria are named after places where Nigerian troops fought and died during the 2nd World War. These include Dodan (Ikoyi), An (Yaba), Myohaung (Yaba), Arakan (Apapa), Marda (Yaba) and Tamandu Barracks (Apapa) in Lagos; Letmauk Barracks in Ibadan; Dalet, Mogadishu, Colito and Kalapanzin Barracks in Kaduna; and the Chindit Barracks in Zaria.
Ceremonies were held in certain military cemeteries in Nigeria on the 11th to honour soldiers who died in these wars.
That's why the Nigerian High Commissioner will lay a wreath at the Cenotaph in London today.
Picture 1: Inspection of Nigerian recruits.
Picture 2: West African and Indian troops in India during the Second World War.
Picture 3: A West African soldier being operated on during the War.
Picture 4: Nigerian troops board a Royal Air Force Dakota plane for the journey to Burma to take part in Operation Thursday.
Politics › Nigerian Governors' Statement On Tax Reform Bill by naptu2(op): 5:49pm On Jan 16, 2025*. Modified: 6:30pm On Jan 16, 2025
