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New tax laws: Fire destroys FIRS Headquarters in Abuja

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The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has confirmed that a fire outbreak occurred at one of its offices within the agency’s headquarters in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja on Saturday, just days ahead of the scheduled January 2026 implementation of Nigeria’s new tax laws.

The incident was confirmed by the spokesperson to the Executive Chairman of FIRS, Mr. Sikiru Akinola.

Akinola said the fire broke out on the fourth floor of the building and was promptly detected by security personnel on duty.

 

He explained that swift intervention by the Federal Capital Territory Fire Service, in collaboration with other emergency responders, ensured the blaze was quickly brought under control, preventing it from spreading to other sections of the complex.

 

“No lives were lost in the incident,” Akinola said, noting, however, that several offices on the affected floor sustained varying degrees of damage.

He added that investigations into the cause of the fire had commenced, with preliminary indications pointing to a possible electrical fault.

According to him, FIRS has also begun a comprehensive review of its internal safety measures to forestall similar incidents in the future.

The fire incident comes just days before the planned rollout of Nigeria’s new tax laws, which have continued to generate debate and concern across the country.

Naira records sharpest fall against US dollar as external reserves slide.

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The naira on Friday suffered its steepest depreciation against the United States dollar this week at the official foreign exchange market, following a decline in Nigeria’s external reserves.

Data released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) showed that the local currency weakened significantly to N1,464.50 per dollar, compared with N1,457.84 recorded the previous trading day, extending its downward trend throughout the week.

The latest fall comes amid sustained pressure on the foreign exchange market, largely driven by reduced dollar inflows and declining external reserves, which have continued to weigh on the value of the naira.

EPL: Four Premier League matches that could spring surprise results

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The Premier League returns this weekend with Game Week 17, promising a round of exciting fixtures across England as clubs battle for vital points before the festive period.

One of the standout clashes will see Aston Villa host Manchester United at Villa Park on Sunday evening. Elsewhere, Newcastle United welcome Chelsea to St James’ Park in Saturday’s early kick-off, while Liverpool travel to Tottenham Hotspur later that day. Manchester City will also be in action at the Etihad Stadium against West Ham United.

Here are four fixtures where upsets could be on the cards this weekend:

Everton vs Arsenal

Everton will face league leaders Arsenal on Saturday night at Hill Dickinson Stadium. David Moyes’ side sit ninth on the table after a 2–0 defeat to Chelsea in their last outing, while Arsenal edged Wolves 2–1. Despite the gap in quality and position, the Toffees will be hoping home advantage can help them frustrate the Gunners and possibly snatch a positive result.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Liverpool

Tottenham welcome Liverpool to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday evening. Spurs are currently 11th in the standings and come into the match after a heavy 3–0 loss to Nottingham Forest. Liverpool, seventh on the table, are buoyed by a 2–0 win over Brighton. Tottenham will be eager to bounce back in front of their supporters and could pose problems for Arne Slot’s side.

Manchester City vs West Ham United

Manchester City host West Ham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday evening. Pep Guardiola’s men are second on the table and head into the game after a convincing 3–0 victory over Crystal Palace. West Ham, who sit 18th, suffered a narrow 3–2 defeat to Aston Villa in their last match. While City are clear favourites, the Hammers will be hoping to avoid consecutive losses and could spring a surprise if they seize their chances.

 

Aston Villa vs Manchester United

The weekend’s headline fixture takes place on Sunday evening as third-placed Aston Villa face Manchester United at Villa Park. Unai Emery’s side are in strong form after beating West Ham, while United played out a draw with Bournemouth and currently occupy sixth place. Despite Villa’s impressive home record, the Red Devils will fancy their chances of causing an upset and leaving Birmingham with a valuable result.

Tinubu begins three-state tour, proceeds to Lagos for Year-End Break

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President Tinbu

 

President Bola Tinubu will on Saturday commence a three-state tour, covering Borno, Bauchi, and Lagos states, before proceeding to Lagos for the end-of-year holidays.

The itinerary was announced in a statement issued on Friday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga.

According to the statement, Tinubu will begin the tour in Borno State, where he is scheduled to inaugurate several projects executed by the administration of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum in partnership with the Federal Government.

While in Maiduguri, the President is also expected to attend the wedding ceremony of Sadeeq Sheriff, son of former Borno State Governor and Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, and his bride, Hadiza Kam Salem.

From Borno, Tinubu will travel to Bauchi State on a condolence visit following the death of renowned Islamic scholar and Tijjaniyya leader, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, who passed away on November 27.

During the visit, the President will commiserate with the Bauchi State Government and the family of the late cleric, whose decades of service in Islamic scholarship, teaching, and community leadership earned him national and international acclaim.

Tinubu will thereafter proceed to Lagos State, where he will spend the year-end holidays and participate in several official, public, and cultural engagements.

One of the highlights of his Lagos visit is his expected appearance as Guest of Honor at the Eyo Festival, scheduled for December 27 at Tafawa Balewa Square.

The festival is expected to honor notable personalities, including the president’s late mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, as well as former Lagos State governors Alhaji Lateef Jakande and Chief Michael Otedola, in recognition of their contributions to the development of Lagos State.

Salah apologised to Liverpool squad after controversial interview- Jones

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Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones has disclosed that Mohamed Salah apologised to his teammates following his explosive interview that sparked controversy at the club.

Salah had earlier criticised Liverpool and head coach Arne Slot, claiming the club had “thrown him under the bus” and suggesting he did not enjoy a good relationship with the manager.

Following the comments, the Egyptian forward was initially dropped from the squad but later reinstated and featured in Liverpool’s victory over Brighton.

Salah is currently away on international duty with Egypt at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Jones explained that the forward took responsibility for the situation and addressed the squad directly.

“Mo is his own man, and he can say his own stuff,” Jones said. “He apologised to us and was like, ‘If I’ve affected anybody or made you feel any sort of way, I apologise.’ That is the man that he is.

“I can only speak from my knowing Mo and how he is with us and how he acted on that. He was positive as well.”

‘I’m sorry’–TikToker, Peller apologises to Nigerians after Police arrest

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Popular TikTok personality Peller has apologised to Nigerians following his arrest and detention by the Lagos State Police Command over an incident involving dangerous driving and alleged self-harm.

In a video that surfaced on social media, the content creator expressed remorse and appealed for forgiveness, promising not to repeat the behaviour. He also disclosed that he is currently receiving medical care and will return online after completing his treatment.

The incident is reportedly linked to Peller’s recent breakup with his girlfriend, Jarvis. She had earlier confirmed the end of their relationship, citing his struggles with emotional control as a key factor in her decision.

Confirming the arrest, the Lagos State Police Command said Peller was taken into custody after his actions were considered a serious risk to both himself and other road users.

According to police accounts, the incident occurred on Sunday, December 14, 2025, when Peller was allegedly seen driving recklessly while livestreaming on social media. The act reportedly led to a major accident along the Lekki–Epe Expressway in Lagos.

Police further disclosed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a comprehensive investigation, adding that Peller will be charged to court once inquiries are concluded.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, cautioned social media influencers and content creators against promoting or displaying reckless behaviour online, warning that such actions will attract strict sanctions.

Chelsea confirm deal for Ezenwata 

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Chelsea have announced that academy forward Chizaram Ezenwata has signed his first professional contract with the club.

The Premier League side confirmed the development in a statement published on their official website on Friday.

Ezenwata joined the west London outfit from Charlton Athletic during his Under-15s season and has since risen steadily through the ranks at Cobham.

 

An England youth international, the young striker is currently the leading scorer across all competitions for Chelsea’s Under-18s, with 11 goals to his name this season.

Ezenwata made his Under-21s debut against Manchester City last term and has also recorded two appearances in the EFL Trophy during the ongoing campaign.

Former Nigerian Senator from Delta, Nwaoboshi is dead

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Former Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi, who represented Delta North Senatorial District at the National Assembly, has passed away.

Nwaoboshi reportedly died after a prolonged illness. His death was confirmed on Friday in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Delta State Governor, Mr. Festus Ahon.

Reacting to the development, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expressed deep sadness over the loss, describing Nwaoboshi’s death as a major blow to Delta State, the Anioma people, and the nation.

The governor said the late senator was a bold and influential advocate for Anioma interests and a respected leader whose contributions to national development would endure.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I mourn the loss of my dear friend, Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi,” Oborevwori said.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the Anioma nation, members of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and all those whose lives he touched.”

Governor Oborevwori recalled Nwaoboshi’s active role in the National Assembly, particularly during his tenure as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, where he consistently championed the development of the Niger Delta and Delta State.

He noted that the late lawmaker’s political journey was marked by selfless leadership, strong political roots, and an unwavering commitment to democratic ideals, which also saw him serve two terms as Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.

Describing him as a committed public servant, the governor said Nwaoboshi dedicated his life to serving his people, his party, and the country, leaving behind a legacy of courage, loyalty, and service.

Senator Nwaoboshi served in the National Assembly from 2015 to 2023.

AFCON 2025: Ndidi named Super Eagles’ captain

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Wilfred Ndidi has been officially appointed as the new captain of the Super Eagles.

Ndidi’s emergence marks the beginning of a new leadership chapter for the national team following the retirement of former skipper William Troost-Ekong from international football.

 

The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the midfielder’s appointment in a post on the Super Eagles’ official X account on Friday.

Speaking after the announcement, the Besiktas star expressed confidence in his teammates and stressed the importance of unity as he takes on the role.

“It’s a huge responsibility, but with the support of the players, everything will be smooth,” Ndidi told Super Eagles media.

“I have already spoken with some of the players to explain why we are here and what is expected. I also need their support, just as we need the backing of the coaching staff. We are all in this together.

“We have discussed the task ahead, and it is important that we stay united and on the same page.”

We are stranded—Akpabio urges Tinubu to reconsider the withdrawal of Police from VIPs

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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to review the directive ordering the withdrawal of police officers attached to Very Important Persons (VIPs).

Nigerian Newssphere had reported that President Tinubu recently approved the immediate redeployment of police personnel providing security to VIPs nationwide, explaining that the officers would be reassigned to core community policing duties.

Following the announcement, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) dismissed the policy as a mere political gesture. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, argued that the move would not be effectively implemented and would do little to address Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.

Despite the criticism, the Nigeria Police Force has commenced implementation of the directive, triggering strong reactions from members of the National Assembly. Several lawmakers have expressed concerns over their personal safety, warning that the decision exposes them to security risks.

Speaking during President Tinubu’s presentation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill at plenary on Friday, Akpabio conveyed the worries of his colleagues and formally appealed to the President.

“Some members of the National Assembly say I should let you know that they may not be able to go home today. We pleaded with the president to review the decision,” the Senate president said.

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