A 27-year-old Daniel Odubanjo has been sentenced to six years in prison for trapping a woman in a train toilet and sexually assaulting her before targeting a teenager minutes later on the same train in Essex, England.

The British Transport Police on Monday released footage capturing the moment officers intercepted the train at Hatfield Peverel station to apprehend Odubanjo following the November 29, 2024, attacks.

According to a news release on its website, BTP revealed that the harrowing incidents occurred aboard a train travelling from Shenfield to Chelmsford.

The court heard how Odubanjo repeatedly banged on a toilet door while it was occupied by a 21-year-old woman.

“The woman inside quickly washed her hands and unlocked the door, expecting to find another passenger needing to use the facilities,” the statement partly read.”But instead she came face to face with Odubanjo, who pushed her back inside the cubicle and locked the door, forcefully grabbing her wrists and sexually assaulting her.”

It continued, “In the struggle that ensued, the woman, who was 21 at the time, managed to open the door and attempt to get the attention of a fellow passenger, but he grabbed her and pulled her back into the toilet where he continued the sexual assault as she screamed for help.

“It was only when she lied about her age, claiming to be 14, that Odubanjo let her go. In an extremely distressed state, she approached a member of staff and left the train at Chelmsford, where she reported what had happened to BTP.”

Moments after the first victim escaped, Odubanjo was said to have targeted a 17-year-old girl, whom he subjected to a “barrage of inappropriate questions” before sexually assaulting her until a brave bystander intervened, pulling Odubanjo off the girl until the train was met by waiting officers.”

The statement continued, “Just moments later, Odubanjo approached a 17-year-old girl boarding the service and sat opposite her, asking her a barrage of inappropriate questions before exposing himself.

“When he left to go to the toilet, the teenager moved seats to sit closer to other passengers, telling them what had happened, but Odubanjo returned and sat next to her and sexually assaulted her.

“A passenger sat nearby grabbed Odubanjo off the girl.

“The train was met by BTP officers at Hatfield Peverel station, just outside Chelmsford, and Odubanjo was arrested at the scene.”

Odubanjo was reportedly sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court on Monday, January 12, after being found guilty of one count of False Imprisonment and two counts of Sexual Assault.

The statement read, “Following a British Transport Police (BTP) investigation, Daniel Odubanjo, 27 of King Avenue, Clapham, was sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court on Monday 12 January for one count of False Imprisonment and two counts of Sexual Assault after being found guilty following an earlier trial.

“Odubanjo received six years in prison, ordered to pay a victim surcharge, and given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) which prohibits him from being under the influence of any substance while on public transport, at stations or on Network Rail property.”

Reacting to the sentencing, BTP Detective Sergeant Hayley Whyte commended the victim’s bravery, saying, “Odubanjo preyed on a young woman and a teenage girl in terrifying attacks just minutes apart.

“Both were left distressed and traumatized by the vile assaults he subjected them to. Despite this, their courage and determination to see him brought to justice has resulted in a suitably lengthy prison sentence.

“I commend their bravery, and that of the bystanders who intervened in the second attack.”

PUNCH similarly reported in November 2025 that a Nigerian postgraduate student living in the United Kingdom, Chiemka Okoronta, was to be deported following his 10-year jail term after being found guilty of raping a teenage girl.

The incident reportedly occurred when the teenager became stranded on a night bus service in West Yorkshire.

“The 29-year-old postgraduate student tricked her into sharing a taxi before luring her into his accommodation and attacking her in a locked toilet,” the report quoted Bradford Crown Court proceedings.

The Yobe State Police Command has arrested a 35-year-old man for allegedly defiling a 16-year-old girl in Babbangida town, Tarmuwa Local Government Area.

According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, on Monday, operatives of the Tarmuwa Divisional Police Headquarters arrested Aliyu Yarima of Potiskum Local Government Area following a distress report.

“Preliminary investigations have revealed that on 16th January 2026, the suspect allegedly lured the victim and gave her a soft drink mixed with hard drugs, which rendered her unconscious.

“He then took her to his residence, where he allegedly committed the act of rape. The victim reportedly sustained serious internal injuries, which delayed her reporting the incident.

“She was later rushed to the General Hospital, Babbangida, where a medical examination confirmed sexual assault,” SP Abdulkarim said.

Investigations are ongoing, and the suspect will be charged in court upon their completion, the police added.

SP Abdulkarim urged members of the public to report cases of sexual abuse and other criminal acts promptly to the nearest police station, stressing the command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons.

The Onitsha Main Market has been barricaded by security agencies who are enforcing the one-week closure of the market ordered by the state governor, Chukwuma Soludo, following defiance of the government’s Monday sit-at-home directive by the traders.

On Tuesday morning, hundreds of security personnel were seen moving around the area, while several security vehicles, including Armoured Personnel Carriers and Hillux vans, were used to block strategic locations across the market.

Recall that Governor Soludo, during an on-site inspection of the sprawling market on Monday, ordered the closure after traders and market leadership refused to open for business, ignoring repeated government appeals to resume normal economic activity.

Soludo warned that the closure could be extended if traders fail to comply with the directive, adding that security agencies have sealed the market to enforce the order. He described the development as the latest—and perhaps most drastic—salvo in a protracted struggle over control of economic life in the South-East.

The state government said that the continuous Monday sit-at-home costs Anambra State about N8bn weekly, and the South East region N19.6bn, while disrupting work and other economic activities.

“The government cannot stand by while a few individuals willfully undermine public safety and disregard official directives meant to restore normalcy. This is plain economic sabotage. We are not going to allow this.

“The closure is a protective measure for law-abiding citizens,” Soludo said, warning that if traders fail to comply, the market could remain sealed for up to one month.

The security personnel prevented anybody from moving into the market premises while the shops remained locked, as traders and other people who had come to do business in the market were seen loitering around, watching the security personnel.

Our correspondent observed that during the enforcement, security agencies—including police, army, and other joint task forces—were deployed to enforce the closure, while barricades were placed around the market perimeter to ensure compliance.

Some of the traders who had come to the market were seen gathered at various corners discussing and analysing the development.

At some point, the market would become rowdy and chaotic as the traders ran helter-skelter as the security personnel moved around the premises while enforcing order. This led to some confrontations with the security personnel.

This development, it was further gathered, was also to counter the counter-directive given by the Indigenous People of Biafra, who, in response to the governor’s directive, have urged residents and traders to defy the closure and resume trading on Tuesday, describing the governor’s action as “disappointing and unacceptable.”

Head Coach of Nigeria’s Under-20 women’s team, the Falconets, Moses Aduku, has expressed satisfaction with the team’s preparations ahead of their third-round FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying fixture against Senegal.

Aduku told the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday in Abuja that the weeks spent in camp had been productive, with all invited players reporting on time and responding positively to training sessions.

He said the technical crew had focused on tactical organisation, team cohesion, and overall strategy, adding that the players demonstrated commitment, discipline, and high intensity throughout the preparations.

“The team’s attention remains firmly on the upcoming qualifier,” Aduku said, stressing the importance of securing a favourable result in the first leg at home.

He added that friendly matches played during the preparation period were useful in assessing and refining the team’s system of play, particularly in improving attacking options while maintaining defensive balance. He described the team’s performances in the friendly games as encouraging.

NAN reports that Nigeria will host the first leg of the encounter at Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, on February 7, while the return leg is scheduled for February 14 in Dakar, Senegal.

The Falconets, two-time silver medallists at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup and semi-finalists at the tournament in Japan 14 years ago, are expected to travel to Ibadan on January 27 to intensify preparations for the fixture.

While refraining from making predictions, Aduku expressed confidence in the quality and mentality of the players, citing their competitive displays in recent friendly matches. He reaffirmed the team’s determination to make the nation proud and secure qualification for the World Cup.

The winner of the Nigeria–Senegal tie will advance to the final round of the African qualifying series to face the winner of the Guinea-Bissau versus Malawi fixture for one of Africa’s four slots at the tournament.

The 12th edition of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup finals will be held in Poland from September 5 to September 27.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has commended the Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, following his return to the All Progressives Congress.

PUNCH Online had reported that Yusuf defected to the ruling party on Monday at the Coronation Hall of the Kano Government House.

Yusuf, who was previously a member of the APC before contesting and winning the 2023 governorship election on the platform of the New Nigeria People’s Party, defected alongside several members of the Kano State House of Assembly and the House of Representatives.

The governor was formally received into the APC by the former National Chairman of the party and immediate past Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje; the Deputy President of the Senate and Senator representing Kano South, Barau Jibrin; the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Ata; and other top party leaders.

Speaking at the event, Yusuf said his return to the APC was anchored on the need to work more closely with the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

He disclosed that the decision was taken collectively with key political stakeholders in the state.

The governor explained that the move was based on the reality of aligning with the Federal Government to support President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he described as development-driven and beneficial to Kano State.

He stressed that the decision was not motivated by personal interest or negative considerations, but by the desire to promote peace, unity and development in the state.

Yusuf added that aligning with the central government would end what he described as isolation politics and accelerate development in the state.

He expressed confidence that the move would create a calmer political atmosphere in Kano, noting that it did not diminish the contributions of those who supported his emergence as governor.

He assured residents that his administration would remain inclusive, adding that no group or individual would be excluded.

Reacting in a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday, Keyamo welcomed the governor back to the ruling party.

Keyamo said that the governor will be remembered for good for prioritising the welfare of the people over loyalty to anyone.

He wrote, “My dear brother, H.E. Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf, welcome back home to the APC. With your giant strides in Kano as a true progressive governor, it feels like you never left the APC.

“History will record that you prioritised the welfare of your people over and above blind loyalty to anyone.”

The Nigerian Correctional Service has dismissed as false and misleading reports alleging a jailbreak at the Benin Custodial Centre in Edo State.

In a statement signed on Tuesday by the Service Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Correction JIN Osuji, the NCoS described the reports, which began circulating on January 24, as completely unfounded.

According to the report being circulated, three inmates, including two convicted fraudsters, allegedly escaped from the custodial centre on Friday, January 16, 2026.

The report further identified the third alleged escapee as one of the persons arrested in connection with the 2020 #EndSARS protests, who had not received a final conviction.

Osuji stated that there had been no jailbreak, escape, or security breach in any custodial centre in Benin City or elsewhere in Edo State.

He said, “Comprehensive checks and verifications conducted by the Edo State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service confirm that all inmates are fully accounted for, and custodial operations across the State remain secure, stable, and under effective control.”

The Service expressed concern that the media organisation involved did not seek verification from either the Edo State Command or the National Headquarters of the NCoS before publishing what it described as a grave allegation with serious public safety implications.

“The Nigerian Correctional Service wishes to assure the general public, especially residents of Benin City and Edo State, that all custodial facilities in the State are secure, there is no threat whatsoever to public safety arising from any custodial centre, and the Service remains fully committed to its statutory mandate of safe custody, security, and rehabilitation of inmates,” the statement said.

While reaffirming its respect for the role of the media in nation-building, the NCoS warned that it would not hesitate to pursue appropriate legal remedies against individuals or media organisations that publish false, unverified, or malicious reports capable of causing public panic, undermining national security, or damaging the image of the Service.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to operating as a people-centred, ethically grounded, and professionally accountable military.

According to a post by the Director, Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, on DHQ’s X handle on Tuesday, Oluyede stated this at the opening ceremony of the Human Security and Gender Advisers Course held at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Asokoro, Abuja.

The CDS, who was represented by the Chief of Defence Standards and Evaluation, Major General Ibrahim Lassa, commended the British Defence Staff for their sustained support and cooperation in strengthening the operational effectiveness of the AFN, particularly in the area of civil-military relations.

He noted that the collaboration reflects the enduring defence partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, based on shared values and a common commitment to people-oriented approaches to national security.

Oluyede observed that Nigeria’s security environment remains complex and multidimensional, characterised by asymmetric warfare, violent extremism, communal conflicts, transnational crimes, and humanitarian emergencies that directly affect the civilian population.

“Modern security efforts must go beyond territorial defence to include the protection of lives, preservation of human dignity, and the strengthening of societal resilience.

“The course aligns with his strategic vision of consolidating the capacities of the AFN through enhanced jointness, a reinforced operational posture, improved welfare initiatives, and sound administration,” he said.

These efforts, he said, are aimed at sustaining the Armed Forces’ core mandate of guaranteeing Nigeria’s sovereignty and prosperity under a whole-of-government approach.

He added that the AFN is being repositioned as a force that is not only operationally capable, but also ethically grounded, people-centred, and responsive to the socio-cultural realities of its operational environment.

The CDS further underscored that preventive action, collaboration with civilian institutions, and the protection of civilians are now integral components of military effectiveness. He described human security and gender advisory roles as force multipliers that enhance legitimacy, expand operational reach, and improve mission sustainability.

Oluyede encouraged participants to take full advantage of the course as a platform for knowledge exchange, critical reflection, and professional networking, noting that the skills acquired must be applied during operational planning, field deployments, and engagements with civilian populations.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations, Rear Admiral Saburi Lawal, described the course as a key initiative aimed at enhancing the professional competence of Nigeria’s security institutions.

He said participants were carefully selected to serve in advisory roles within the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

Lawal expressed confidence that the training would enhance professionalism, strengthen civil-military cooperation, and build trust between security agencies and the civilian population.

He urged participants to approach the programme with dedication, professionalism, and an open mind.

He added that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to collaborate with local and international partners to promote capacity building and professional development of its personnel.

The hometown of the Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, Madagali, was attacked in the early hours of Tuesday by suspected terrorists, kidnapping six family members.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday morning by the state Police command spokesman, SP Suleiman Nguroje.

Nguroje stated that a combined rescue team of police and the military are in the area searching for the abducted family members.

The statement reads, “The Adamawa State Police Command has confirmed an attack on Gare Village, Pallam District, Madagali Local Government Area, in the early hours of today by suspected terrorists, which led to the abduction of six(6) family members and the rustling of livestock.

“Upon receipt of the report, the Command immediately intensified collaboration and deployed additional personnel and operational assets in a joint operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, Troops of 144 Battalion, and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) to the affected area and surrounding communities.”

According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police, Adamawa State Command, Dankombo Morris,  has directed sustained search-and-rescue operations, reinforced patrols and beefed up security presence across Madagali and other border communities to ensure the safe rescue and return of the victims and prevent further threats.

Nguroje  stated, “The Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and other sister security agencies, remain fully committed to protecting lives and properties across the State.”

“Further updates will be communicated.”

Fintiri on Tuesday began a tour of the 21 local governments in the state to assess the security situation and other issues confronting the people in their areas.

The Hong Local Government was also attacked recently, where 12 people lost their lives and houses were destroyed.

The communal crisis between Bachaman and Chobo communities in Lamurde Local Government Area in Adamawa state, early this year, claimed over 20 lives.

The Lagos State Government has announced plans to redevelop the Obalende under-bridge into a modern transport hub, to be known as Y’ELLO Bus Park, in collaboration with MTN Nigeria.

The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this in a statement posted on his verified X handle on Tuesday.

According to Wahab, the project is aimed at transforming the previously degraded and unsafe space into a functional, secure and community-oriented facility that will serve commuters and residents in the Obalende area.

“The new bus park will feature an organised and regulated transport terminal, a recycling drop-off station, a road camp for LAWMA sweepers and security agencies, over 60 public toilet fixtures, kiosks, and other essential amenities designed to serve commuters and residents alike.

“The design prioritises safety, health, and aesthetics. Solar-powered lighting will improve night-time visibility, reduce blind spots, and enhance CCTV effectiveness, helping to curb criminal activities and improve overall security in the Obalende axis.

“A biodigester system is also being introduced to sustainably manage wastewater generated within the park, while a dedicated recycling station will discourage illegal waste disposal in the area,” Wahab said.

He further stated that the project aligns with the state’s climate responsibility agenda, with plans to install solar panels to support energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

According to the commissioner, tree planting is also planned to improve air quality and enhance the visual appeal of the environment.

Wahab said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to reclaiming public spaces and making them functional, sustainable and safe for Lagos residents.

“This project reflects our resolve to reclaim public spaces, make them functional, sustainable, and safe, and ensure they serve the needs of Lagosians in a modern, responsible way,” he said.

PUNCH Online reports that the initiative follows last week’s enforcement actions, where state authorities evicted squatters and cleared illegal structures under the bridge.

Civil Society Organisations have commended Governor Ahmed Ododo for significant improvements in security and infrastructure within his first two years.

KONGONET gave the commendation in a statement jointly signed by its Chairperson, Mr Hamza Aliyu, and Secretary, Reuben Joshua, in Lokoja on Monday.

“Ododo’s administration has made a significant impact in the areas of security, healthcare, education and infrastructure development in the state, ” it stated.

The organisation, in its assessment of the governor’s performance, highlighted both the gains and the gaps in the last two years.

According to KONGONET, the administration has made strides in rehabilitating roads, strengthening healthcare delivery, and promoting agriculture.

It noted, “Ododo’s administration for prioritising security, collaborating with federal agencies and supporting local initiatives.”

The group noted with pain that pressing challenges in water supply, waste management, and citizen engagement threatened to undermine the administration’s achievements.

“The rural communities still struggle with poor road access, and healthcare facilities remain under-equipped.

“The water situation in Lokoja, the state capital, has reached alarming levels, with many residents relying on unsafe sources or expensive private vendors.

“Poor waste management has earned Lokoja the reputation of being the “dirtiest state capital” in Nigeria, posing serious environmental and public health risks.

“While relative stability has improved in some areas, security concerns persist, particularly in border communities, where attacksarebeingexperienced, ” it stated.

KONGONET urged Gov. Ododo to institutionalise quarterly town hall meetings to rebuild trust and ensure citizen voices inform governance, strengthen procurement transparency and publish annual procurement plans.

The group urged him to prioritise sustainable water solutions and urban sanitation, and a viable mass transit system, especially in Lokoja metropolis, to ease transportation.

The organisation further called for support for the Social Protection Policy Framework development, and the appointment of statutory boards for transparency purposes

“As the administration enters its final two years, decisive action on these issues will shape citizens’ perceptions and determine the legacy of Governor Ododo’s tenure,” the group said.

In the same vein, the Executive Director of Conscience for Human Rights and Conflicts Resolution, Idris Abdul, acknowledged the governor’s efforts in paying salaries, maintaining peace, and improving security in the state.

Abdul said there was still much work to be done, particularly in areas such as transportation, housing, water, tourism, human development, and healthcare.

“Two years is a significant milestone, but it’s not enough to determine the success of an administration.

“We urge Governor Ododo to do more to address the pressing issues facing Kogi,” Abdul said.

He also commended the governor’s security efforts, including the recent successes of security agencies in Kogi, but emphasised the need for sustainability and community involvement in addressing insecurity.

Abdul also urged the governor to initiate town hall meetings with citizens, reduce his cabinet size, and appoint professionals with relevant skills to drive development in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Ododo was elected in November 2923 and sworn in to office on Jan. 27, 2024.

NAN

In today’s big headlines, Nigerian workers say recent tax reforms have resulted in only marginal increases in take-home pay, while the Defence Headquarters has concluded its investigation into alleged coup plotters and will arraign the officers implicated.

In other developments, Calvin Bassey’s father has renewed his appeal for reconciliation with his children after 18 years, and Oyo State’s 50th anniversary opening ceremony went ahead without the Alaafin and Soun.

Workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration are also awaiting a key ruling at the National Industrial Court in Abuja over their ongoing strike.

Below are the top stories:

1. Workers unimpressed with marginal salary rise after tax reforms

Many Nigerian workers have expressed disappointment with the outcome of recently implemented tax reforms, saying the changes have led to only modest increases in their take-home pay.

Under the new Personal Income Tax regime, individuals earning the national minimum wage or less are exempt, while others enjoy reduced Pay-As-You-Earn tax rates.

However, workers interviewed by The PUNCH said their January salaries reflected only small gains — in some cases just a few thousand naira — leaving many still struggling with high living costs.

Read more here: https://punchng.com/tax-reforms-workers-unimpressed-with-marginal-salary-rise/

2. Military investigation ends: DHQ moves to arraign alleged coup plotters

The Defence Headquarters said it has concluded its investigation into alleged misconduct by some military officers, reports The PUNCH, and will arraign those identified before appropriate military judicial panels.

The probe, which began with the arrest of 16 personnel in October 2025 over alleged indiscipline and breaches of service regulations, uncovered cases against officers with allegations suggesting plots inconsistent with professional standards.

The DHQ said the arraignment will follow procedures under the Armed Forces Act and ensure fairness and due process.

Read more here: https://punchng.com/military-investigation-ends-dhq-moves-to-arraign-alleged-coup-plotters/

3. Again, Bassey’s father begs for reunion after 18 years

Kingsley Ughelumba, the father of Super Eagles and Fulham defender Calvin Bassey, has renewed his public plea to be reunited with his four children, including the Nigeria international, after more than 18 years of separation.

Ughelumba told The PUNCH he has made repeated attempts to reconnect with his children following personal and marital issues that led to their separation when they were young.

He described his continued efforts as heartfelt and said he hopes for reconciliation despite past setbacks.

Read more here: https://punchng.com/again-basseys-father-begs-for-reunion-after-18-years/

4. Alaafin, Soun absent as Oyo marks 50th anniversary

The inauguration of Oyo State’s 50th anniversary celebrations saw the notable absence of two key traditional rulers — the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, and the Soun of Ogbomosoland.

Governor Seyi Makinde officiated the opening ceremony, which featured cultural and civic events, but the absence of the monarchs drew attention amid discussions about the roles and relationships among traditional institutions in the state.

Read more here: https://punchng.com/alaafin-soun-absent-as-makinde-kicks-off-oyo-50th-anniversary/

5. Court to rule today on FCT workers’ strike dispute

The National Industrial Court in Abuja is set to deliver a ruling today on a motion brought by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, seeking to halt the indefinite strike by workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration.

The suit filed by the FCTA and Wike challenges the legality of the ongoing industrial action led by the Joint Union Action Congress, which has paralysed several functions within the territory over unresolved welfare and promotion arrears.

Read more here: https://punchng.com/strike-court-decides-today-as-fct-workers-demand-wikes-removal/

Stay with us for updates as the day’s stories develop and more details emerge.

The National Assembly will today resume plenary sessions with the scrutiny of President Bola Tinubu’s ₦58.47tn 2026 Appropriation Bill and amendments to Nigeria’s electoral laws topping its legislative agenda.

The Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, stated that the upper and lower chambers would also expedite work on the review of the 1999 Constitution, assuring all that the document would be completed and ready for transmission to state legislatures by the first quarter of 2026.

Bamidele disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Monday, noting that committees in both chambers had already commenced detailed assessments of the revenue and expenditure estimates presented by President Tinubu to a joint session of the National Assembly on December 18, 2025.

He said, “Now that we have resumed plenary, we will devote quality time to the scrutiny and passage of the 2026 Appropriation Bill valued at ₦58.47 trillion. In both chambers, our committees are already looking deeply into the estimates of revenues and expenditures that President Bola Tinubu laid before the joint session of the National Assembly on December 18, 2025.

“The proposal is crucial to the growth, prosperity, and stability of our economy this year and even beyond, given its emphasis on consolidating the gains of the previous years.”

He said the budget, when enacted, would reinforce macroeconomic stability, deepen Nigeria’s global competitiveness, and translate economic growth into jobs, higher incomes, and improved living standards, while restoring the January-to-December budget cycle.

“The budget, when it finally becomes effective, will further reinforce our collective resolve to guarantee our nation’s macroeconomic stability, deepen her global competitiveness and translate economic growth to decent jobs, rising incomes and a better quality of life across the federation.

“This will help us restore and maintain a budget cycle that annually starts from January and ends in December. Achieving these ends might be tough, perhaps unattainable, given the bottlenecks we have experienced before now,” the lawmaker stated.

Bamidele linked improved funding prospects for the budget to recent fiscal reforms, including the enactment of the 2025 Tax Reform Act, which he said had recalibrated the nation’s fiscal space to reduce the tax burden on low-income earners while placing more responsibility on high-income earners.

“Unlike previous years, we have significantly reformed our fiscal space to reflect our socio-economic realities. From the reforms of our fiscal space, we believe funding our budget will no longer be a challenge, and our budget deficit will definitely begin to shrink year by year,” he said.

Beyond the budget, the Senate Leader said the National Assembly was prioritising amendments to the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the aim of guaranteeing credible, transparent, and secure polls.

He said the proposed Electoral Bill, 2025, contained over 20 major innovations, including voting rights for inmates, early release of election funds to INEC, electronically generated voter identification, real-time transmission of polling unit results, standardised delegates for indirect primaries, stricter voter registration requirements, and tougher sanctions for electoral offences.

“Apart from the 2025 Appropriation Bill, we are prioritising the delivery of an electoral governance framework that will guarantee a credible and transparent process in the 2027 general elections. We have started the review of the Electoral Act, 2022, clause by clause, to achieve this end.

“The Bill introduces a system of consequences to our nation’s electoral regime. This provision forecloses the possibility of impunity when electoral offences are established,” he noted.

On constitutional amendments, Bamidele said technical sessions and public hearings had been concluded, adding that the report of the exercise would be laid before the Senate by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, before the end of the first quarter.

“The review of the 1999 Constitution is also at its peak. Before the first quarter elapses, the Deputy President of the Senate and Chairman, Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Senator Barau Jibrin, will lay the report of the exercise before the Senate,” the Senate Leader assured.

He stressed that the final phase of the process would require approval by at least two-thirds of the 36 state Houses of Assembly, underscoring the central role of sub-national legislatures in effecting constitutional alterations.

Reflecting on the lifespan of the 10th National Assembly, Bamidele noted that only 16 months remained out of its constitutionally prescribed 48 months, pledging that lawmakers would intensify reforms touching on governance, elections, and economic diversification.

He said, “At this highly critical time, when what happens in other parts of the world now dictates the direction of our economy and polity, the onus rests much more upon us than at any time in history to reinforce our constituents’ trust in their representatives, in the National Assembly and in their fatherland.”