The immediate past Deputy Governor of Delta State, Barr. Deacon Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, has extended warm birthday wishes to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, commending his leadership and developmental strides across the state. In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, and personally signed on behalf of his family, friends, and political associates, Otuaro joined millions of Deltans in celebrating the governor’s new age, describing the occasion not merely as a personal milestone, but a reminder of the weighty responsibilities that come with leadership. "Your tenure so far has reflected a clear determination to improve long-standing developmental challenges across the state," he stated. Highlighting the high expectations on the Oborevwori administration, Otuaro cited critical areas including infrastructure, youth empowerment, peace-building, and economic reforms. He prayed for renewed strength, wisdom, and courage for the governor to continue advancing Delta's progress. Otuaro said, "On the occasion of your birthday, Your Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, Onbehalf of my family, friends and political associates, I join millions of Deltans to acknowledge this moment, not just as a celebration of life, but as a reminder of the great responsibilities you shoulder. Your tenure so far has reflected a clear determination to improve long-standing developmental challenges across the state. "We recognize the weight of expectations on your administration — from infrastructure to youth empowerment, peace-building to economic reforms. May this new year of your life grant you renewed strength, wisdom, and the courage to continue pushing the boundaries of progress. "As citizens, we believe that with more openness, inclusive leadership, and relentless focus, Delta State can become a shining model for the entire country.

After weeks of tension and uncertainty following an inconclusive community election, peace has finally returned to the Izansa/Ikeremor/Ijelejele Federated Communities. The breakthrough came through the wise and timely intervention of His Royal Majesty, Couple M. Oromoni, Manbene III, Pere Ama-Okosu of Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Kingdom. WAFFI TV had earlier reported the challenges that disrupted communal harmony and governance across the federated communities. However, after several consultative meetings involving traditional leaders, local government authorities, and security stakeholders, a consensus was reached to dissolve the lingering crisis through the establishment of an interim leadership. In collaboration with the Executive Chairman of Warri South-West Local Government Area, Chief Sylvester Oromoni, and supported by the local security apparatus, His Majesty approved the inauguration of a Caretaker Committee to administer the communities over the next six months, paving the way for reconciliation and structured development. On this historic day, HRM Couple M. Oromoni officially swore in the following individuals as members of the newly constituted Caretaker Committee at his palace in Ogbe-Ijoh town: Hon. Aniyanghan Johnbull – Chairman Mr. Senne Stephen – Vice Chairman Mr. Afedolo Izoukumor Moses – Secretary Mr. Christmas Koko Jeffrey – Assistant Secretary Mr. Kalaendi Fabian – Financial Secretary Mr. Sobaike Richard – Public Relations Officer (PRO) Chief Okiri Guofa Stanley – Treasurer Mr. Andy Timi – Member Royal Charge by His Majesty Addressing the newly inaugurated committee, the revered monarch delivered a powerful message of unity and responsibility: “To the newly constituted Caretaker Committee of Izansa Ijeleje Ikeremor Federated Communities, I extend my royal greetings and blessings. The resolution of the internal crisis that once divided your communities is not just a victory for peace, but a reaffirmation of the power of dialogue, tradition, and unity. As caretakers of this delicate moment, you are called to lead not with ego, but with equity. These next six months must be a season of healing, rebuilding, and preparing the ground for democratic transition. Lead with integrity, engage the people, secure the peace, and uphold transparency.” Guiding Pillars for Leadership: Transparency: Govern with accountability and collective interest. Community Engagement: Maintain regular consultations with all key segments—elders, youths, and women. Security & Stability: Collaborate with security agents and traditional structures to ensure lasting peace. Democratic Preparation: Use this period to lay the foundation for credible, inclusive elections. “Remember, leadership is a sacred trust,” His Majesty concluded. “Serve not as rulers, but as stewards of the people’s hope.” Vote of Thanks by the Caretaker Committee Speaking on behalf of the new executive, Chairman Hon. Aniyanghan Johnbull expressed gratitude to the monarch and the people: “Your Majesty, we are humbled by your wisdom and honored by this trust. Your charge has given us not just direction, but inspiration. This moment marks a new dawn for our people. We pledge to lead with justice, humility, and the fear of God. We assure you of our unwavering commitment to promote unity, restore faith in leadership, and prepare the communities for a peaceful democratic future.” He further extended appreciation to the traditional council, community elders, youths, women groups, and stakeholders whose contributions made this peace possible. “Your sacrifices shall never be forgotten. May Your Majesty’s reign continue to bring peace, progress, and prosperity to the Ogbe-Ijohl Warri Kingdom and the entire Ijaw nation.” Community Leader Reacts Also speaking at the ceremony, respected community leader and legal luminary, Chief Barr. Michael Akoubodo, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the royal father and all stakeholders who helped restore peace: “Today is a day of healing, hope, and history. On behalf of our people, I thank His Royal Majesty for his uncommon wisdom and tireless efforts in guiding us back to unity. His intervention has proven once again that the traditional institution remains a pillar of strength in our land. I also commend the Chairman of Warri South-West LGA, Chief Sylvester Oromoni, and all security partners for their proactive support. This peace did not come easily — it came through sacrifice, dialogue, and maturity from all sides. We pledge to support the new caretaker committee and ensure that Izansa, Ijeleje, and Ikeremor communities walk this new path together, in peace, equity, and shared progress.” WAFFI TV will continue to monitor developments as the caretaker committee commences its duties. The return of peace to the Izansa/Ijeleje Ikeremor Federated Communities stands as a beacon of hope for other conflict-prone areas across the Niger Delta.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a surge in the fatality rate of Lassa fever, as the virus continues to spread across multiple states with new confirmed cases and additional deaths. This update was contained in the NCDC’s latest situation report for Epidemiological Week 23 (June 2–8, 2025), published on its official website on Wednesday. According to the agency, a total of 143 deaths have been recorded from 758 confirmed Lassa fever cases since the start of the year. This represents a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.9 per cent—an increase from the 17.8 per cent recorded during the same period in 2024. During the reporting week, 11 new cases were confirmed—up from eight the previous week. These cases were detected in Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, and Taraba States. So far in 2025, 18 states across 96 Local Government Areas have reported at least one confirmed case. However, 90 per cent of all infections have come from just five states: Ondo (31%), Bauchi (25%), Edo (16%), Taraba (15%), and Ebonyi (3%). The most affected age group remains young adults aged 21 to 30, with a median age of 30. The report also noted one additional healthcare worker infection during the week, bringing the total number of affected health workers this year to 23. The NCDC highlighted several ongoing challenges worsening the outbreak, including delayed presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behaviour, high treatment costs, inadequate sanitation, and low public awareness. In response, the agency has activated a multi-sectoral Incident Management System and deployed 10 Rapid Response Teams to the worst-hit states. Other interventions include training health workers on case management, launching an Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) e-learning platform, conducting community sensitisation, implementing environmental health measures, and collaborating with media and stakeholders for public outreach. The NCDC urged Nigerians to maintain good hygiene, seek early medical care when symptoms appear, and avoid contact with rodents and their excreta, which are the primary carriers of the virus. Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness mainly transmitted through contact with urine or faeces of infected rats.

A coalition of concerned Ogbe-Ijoh citizens in the diaspora has made an urgent appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling on him to intervene in the implementation of a Supreme Court ruling mandating a fresh delineation of electoral wards in Warri Federal Constituency, Delta State. The appeal, addressed in a formal letter to the President, describes the current situation as a constitutional and democratic crisis threatening the fragile peace in the Warri region. At the heart of the issue is the Supreme Court’s 2022 judgment in Timinimi v. INEC, which ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to redraw ward boundaries in Warri South, Warri South West, and Warri North LGAs to reflect accurate population data, as mandated by Sections 71–75 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). However, the diaspora group alleges that the judgment's implementation is being actively obstructed by elements within the Itsekiri ethnic group through misinformation campaigns, ethnic provocation, and even threats to national oil infrastructure. The letter highlights deep-rooted grievances around what the Ogbe-Ijoh group describes as decades of electoral marginalization. It points to manipulated voter registers and lopsided ward allocations, particularly in Warri South West, where the minority Itsekiri reportedly enjoyed six wards to the Ijaw’s four—despite being outnumbered in population. Read the full letter below: His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Aso Rock Presidential Villa Abuja, FCT, Nigeria Your Excellency, Urgent Appeal for the Implementation of the Supreme Court Judgment on Ward Delineation in Warri Federal Constituency We, the undersigned, representing concerned Ogbe-Ijohs in the diaspora, write to you with profound respect and unwavering faith in your leadership to address a critical issue threatening the democratic integrity and peace of the Warri Federal Constituency in Delta State. For over a decade, we have closely observed the unfolding events surrounding the ward delineation in the three local government areas (LGAs) of Warri South, Warri South West, and Warri North, following the landmark Supreme Court judgment between Timinimi v. I.N.E.C. (2023) 7 NWLR (Pt. 1882) 109. This judgment mandated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a fresh delineation of wards to reflect the true population distribution, as enshrined in Sections 71,72, 73 and 75 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFRN) 1999 (as amended). Regrettably, the implementation of this judgment has been met with orchestrated resistance, misinformation, and diversionary tactics, particularly from certain segments of the Itsekiri ethnic group, who have sought to reframe the constitutional issue of ward delineation into a contentious debate over the ownership of Warri. We are compelled to set the record straight and appeal for your decisive intervention to ensure justice, equity, and adherence to the rule of law. By allowing INEC to execute its mandate impartially, your administration can resolve a long-standing grievance, foster peace, and etch a legacy of fairness in Nigeria’s democratic history. Background and Context The Warri Federal Constituency, comprising Warri South, Warri South West, and Warri North LGAs, is a diverse region inhabited by three major ethnic groups: the Ijaw, Urhobo, and Itsekiri. Historically, this area has been plagued by ethnic tensions, often exacerbated by electoral malpractices and inequitable resource allocation. A significant source of these conflicts has been the skewed delineation of electoral wards, which has disproportionately favored the Itsekiri, a minority group, over the Ijaw and Urhobo, who constitute the majority in terms of population. Prior to the 2022 Supreme Court judgment, the ward delineation in these LGAs was based on a manipulated voter register that inflated electoral figures in Itsekiri-dominated areas. For instance, in Warri South West LGA, the Itsekiri were allocated six wards, while the Ijaw, despite their larger population, were assigned only four. This imbalance was compounded by a voter register that produced implausible election results. During the 2007, 2011, and 2015 general elections, Itsekiri areas reportedly recorded over 60% of the votes in Warri South West Local Government Area—a figure widely regarded as fraudulent. The introduction of the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in the 2023 elections exposed this manipulation, reducing reported votes in these areas by approximately 300%. The BVAS results in 2023 for Warri South West showed that the Itsekiris had around 3,000 votes, while the Ijaws had 8,000, reflecting a more accurate population count. Similar reductions were observed in Warri South and Warri North LGAs. This manipulated register underpinned numerous elections, undermining the democratic rights of the Ijaw and Urhobo communities. Frustrated by these injustices, the Ijaw people initiated legal action in 2011 at the Federal High Court in Asaba, culminating in the Supreme Court’s 2022 directive for INEC to undertake a fresh delineation based on accurate population data. The court’s ruling was a triumph for constitutionalism, affirming Section 72 of the CFRN, which mandates that electoral constituencies reflect population size to ensure equitable representation. The Current Agitation: Diversionary Tactics and Misinformation Since the Supreme Court’s judgment, we have witnessed a concerted effort by some Itsekiri leaders and groups to obstruct INEC’s delineation exercise. Through a series of media publications, television appearances, and press conferences, these parties have shifted the narrative from ward delineation to the emotionally charged question of “who owns Warri.” This reframing is a deliberate strategy to divert attention from the constitutional mandate of population-based delineation and to perpetuate the status quo of electoral inequity. Television anchors and media outlets have inadvertently amplified this narrative, posing questions about Warri’s ownership rather than focusing on the legal and demographic basis for ward delineation. Such discussions are a red herring, designed to inflame ethnic tensions and obscure the core issue. The ownership of Warri, while a sensitive historical and cultural matter, is irrelevant to the current task of ensuring wards reflect population realities. We are alarmed by the Itsekiri’s refusal to engage with population data, instead resorting to claims of territorial ownership or demands to retain the old, discredited voter register. Moreover, reports indicate that some Itsekiri factions have resorted to threats, including disruptions of oil facilities, to pressure INEC and the federal government. These actions not only undermine democratic processes but also jeopardize Nigeria’s economic stability, given Warri’s strategic importance to the oil industry. We firmly believe this orchestrated campaign is intended to deceive the public and your administration, diverting focus from INEC’s constitutional duty. The Constitutional Imperative: Sections 71,72,73 and 75 Population-Based Delineation At the heart of this issue is Section 72 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), which provides: “No Senatorial district or Federal constituency shall fall within more than one State, and the boundaries of each district or constituency shall be as contiguous as possible and be such that the number of inhabitants thereof is as nearly equal to the population quota as is reasonably practicable.” The operative word here is population. Wards and constituencies must reflect the demographic realities of their respective areas to ensure fair representation. The Supreme Court’s judgment in Timinimi v. I.N.E.C reaffirmed this principle, ordering INEC to correct the historical imbalances in Warri’s ward structure. Historically, the Itsekiri’s disproportionate ward allocation in Warri South West, Warri South, and Warri North LGAs has distorted electoral outcomes, disenfranchising the Ijaw and Urhobo majorities. This imbalance contributed to violent ethnic clashes in 1996 and 2000, which claimed numerous lives and destabilized the region. The Supreme Court’s ruling offers a pathway to peace by addressing this root cause, provided INEC is allowed to act without interference. INEC’s Recent Efforts: A Step Toward Justice We commend INEC’s recent efforts to implement the Supreme Court’s judgment through fieldwork conducted between January and March 2025. Unlike previous delineations, which were often manipulated in office settings, INEC’s current approach involves on-the-ground assessments to verify population distributions. Preliminary reports from INEC’s fieldwork, published in April 2025, propose a revised ward structure that aligns with demographic realities, increasing wards in Ijaw and Urhobo areas while adjusting those in Itsekiri communities to reflect their minority status. This evidence-based approach marks a significant departure from past practices and demonstrates INEC’s commitment to constitutional compliance. However, the Itsekiri’s response—characterized by protests, threats, and media campaigns—has sought to undermine these efforts. Their insistence on using the discredited voter register or framing the issue as one of ownership, rather than population, is a calculated attempt to obstruct justice. The Stakes for Your Administration Your Excellency, the successful implementation of this Supreme Court judgment presents a historic opportunity to address a long-standing injustice and promote peace in the three Warri LGAs. Previous administrations have faltered in upholding justice, allowing electoral malpractices to persist. Your leadership, renowned for its courage and commitment to national unity, is uniquely positioned to break this cycle. By supporting INEC’s delineation exercise, your administration can: Uphold the Rule of Law: Reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to constitutionalism and judicial independence, as mandated by the Supreme Court. Promote Peace: Address a root cause of ethnic conflict in Warri, fostering reconciliation among the Ijaw, Urhobo, and Itsekiri. Enhance Democracy: Ensure equitable representation, strengthening trust in Nigeria’s electoral processes. Failure to act, however, risks perpetuating electoral inequity, reigniting ethnic tensions, and undermining public confidence in your government. The Itsekiri’s tactics, if unchecked, could embolden other groups to challenge judicial and constitutional mandates, setting a dangerous precedent. Our Appeal We humbly appeal to Your Excellency to take decisive action to support INEC’s implementation of the Supreme Court’s judgment. Specifically, we urge you to: Direct INEC to Proceed Unhindered: Ensure INEC completes the delineation process based on its 2025 fieldwork, free from external pressures or threats. Reject Diversionary Narratives: Disregard claims of Warri’s ownership as irrelevant to the constitutional issue of population-based ward delineation. Support INEC’s ongoing delineation exercise in the Warri Federal Constituency in line with the Supreme Court’s judgment and Section 72 of the 1999 Constitution. Resist diversionary rhetoric aimed at turning a democratic exercise into an ethnic conflict. Uphold the independence of INEC, ensuring that the Commission completes its constitutional duty without fear, interference, or intimidation. Document and record this reform as one of the transformations. By taking these steps, you will not only resolve a decades-long grievance but also cement your legacy as a leader who championed justice and unity. The history of Nigeria is replete with missed opportunities to address ethnic and electoral injustices; let your administration be remembered as the one that rose above such challenges. Conclusion Your Excellency, the ward delineation crisis in Warri Federal Constituency is a test of Nigeria’s democratic resilience and your administration’s resolve. The Supreme Court’s judgment of July 22, 2022, offers a clear path to rectify historical wrongs, but its implementation is being threatened by diversionary tactics and ethnic posturing. We, as concerned Ogbe-Ijohs in the diaspora, stand with you in seeking a just and lasting solution. By allowing INEC to fulfill its constitutional mandate, you can write your name in gold in the annals of our nation’s history, ensuring that the voices of the Ijaw, Urhobo, and all Nigerians are heard through fair representation. We trust in your wisdom and courage to act decisively, and we pledge our support for your efforts to build a stronger, more equitable Nigeria. Yours sincerely,

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has revoked the contract awarded to Levant Construction Limited for the Benin–Sapele–Warri road project due to the company’s failure to meet its obligations. The highway, a vital federal route, is undergoing reconstruction through the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme. Following a meeting in Abuja with contractors managing different sections of the project, Umahi accused Levant of neglecting its portion of the road despite repeated warnings and a final notice of termination. In a statement issued on Wednesday by his media aide, Orji Uchenna, the minister revealed that even after the Edo State Government intervened on the worst-hit areas, Levant still failed to mobilise to its designated site, leaving key sections of the road in disrepair. “We even begged the Edo State Governor to fix the worst-hit parts while Levant handled the remaining. While the governor delivered on his 23km stretch for N35bn, Levant abandoned its section. “They received multiple warning letters, including a final notice, but chose not to return to the site,” Umahi said. Umahi directed the Permanent Secretary to finalise the contract termination, initiate a joint measurement for completed works, and write to the company’s bank for the recovery of the Advance Payment Guarantee. He warned that failure to refund the public funds could lead to prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. In contrast to Levant’s performance, the minister praised Geld and SKECC for agreeing to return to the site following renegotiations. He noted that a project review has been approved to accommodate inflationary pressures, including the rising cost of asphalt, now pegged at ₦30,000 per square metre from a previous ₦9,000. “I’m pleased with Geld’s commitment. For their other job on the Lokoja-Abuja road, we’ve agreed to a price review. The same applies to the Itoki–Ikorodu road. We are happy to see movement again,” he said. He also lauded the efforts of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for stepping in to fund critical sections of the federal road. “We are grateful. These governors are doing very beautiful work,” he said.

Beginning Wednesday, June 18, 2025, telecom subscribers in Nigeria will be billed directly by their mobile network operators for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) services. This update was announced in a joint statement by Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), and the association’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Damian Udeh. Adebayo explained that the revised billing system aligns with the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) pricing framework for USSD services, developed in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other stakeholders. Under the new model, network operators will deduct charges directly from customers’ airtime at a rate of N6.98 per 120 seconds. Users will receive a prompt to opt-in and confirm the charge before any deduction is made, and fees will only apply to successfully completed sessions. Adebayo emphasized that the change will not impact the availability or functionality of USSD banking services, which will continue as long as customers have enough airtime. “USSD services play a vital role in expanding access to financial services, particularly for unbanked and underbanked populations. “However, the previous corporate billing model where banks were billed by telecom operators led to prolonged disputes over unpaid charges, service interruptions and uncertainty for customers. “To address these challenges, the NCC’s 2025 determination introduced the End-User Billing (EUB) model, which allows mobile network operators to charge customers directly for USSD sessions. “To achieve the implementation of the EUB model, the CBN and NCC have stipulated that only banks that meet certain regulatory and operational conditions are permitted to migrate,” he said. Adebayo advised customers to contact their mobile network operator for access issues and banks for transaction-related issues. “To ensure a smooth transition, we urge subcribers to follow support guidelines, alternative digital banking channels such as mobile apps, internet banking, and ATMs remain fully operational,” he said.

**The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Malam Shehu Mohammed, has cautioned motorists against offering bribes to patrol officers and urged them to pay fines through designated banks.** This was disclosed in a statement by FRSC spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide on Tuesday in Abuja. Mohammed further advised drivers not to offer money or any form of inducement when apprehended for traffic violations. He emphasized that the Corps maintains a strict zero-tolerance stance on bribery and corruption, adding that accepting any form of gratification while on duty goes against the Corps' values, ethics, and standard operating procedures. “As such, any motorist found attempting to bribe FRSC personnel will be arrested and prosecuted. “This is in line with extant provisions in the Corps’ Establishment Act (2007), as the Corps does not, and will not tolerate any form of corruption whatsoever,” he said. Mohammed said that the FRSC was an organisation that upholds the highest level of transparency in its operations. He said that the Corps has had enough of motorists trying to circumvent the law by offering bribes to its personnel, against making payment for their fines. He, however, advised motorists to comply with the law and pay their fines to designated banks which are the only legitimate way to settle fines. “This is because all fines generated through patrol operations are paid into the Treasury Single Account, not into the pockets of individuals,” he maintained.

**The Federal Government has announced plans to implement the Proof of Address (POA) system across all 774 Local Government Areas in the country to tackle insecurity and enhance service delivery.** Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, made this known on Tuesday in Abuja during a stakeholders’ sensitisation meeting for the North-West, North-East, and North-Central geopolitical zones. The event, organised by the Office of the SGF in partnership with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), is part of efforts to advance President Bola Tinubu’s agenda for addressing critical national issues. Akume, represented by Mr Nadungu Gagare, Permanent Secretary for Political and Economic Affairs in the SGF’s office, said the meeting marked the official launch of the nationwide POA sensitisation campaign, beginning with the Northern zones. He noted that earlier consultations held in Abuja led to the adoption of key resolutions and the issuance of a communiqué distributed to all states. “The POA system is aimed at providing every resident with a verifiable and secure address, which will be incorporated into public and private sector administrative frameworks,” he stated. Akume added that the initiative would strengthen national security, support better planning, improve service delivery, and promote a more orderly society.

China has officially removed all tariffs on imports from African countries, according to a report by ENA, a media partner of TV BRICS. The move is part of the newly launched China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development—an initiative aimed at boosting Africa’s integration into global trade by easing market access, streamlining customs procedures, and enhancing trade-related institutional capacity. This initiative aligns with Beijing’s broader agenda to promote industrialisation, diversify import sources, and deepen economic ties with African nations beyond raw material trade. President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s commitment to granting all African exports zero-tariff access and announced additional support in areas such as customs cooperation, quarantine measures, logistics, and capacity building. China also pledged to back training programmes and promote high-quality African products in its domestic market. In 2024, trade between China and Africa approached $300 billion, cementing China’s status as the continent’s largest trading partner. Experts suggest the new tariff regime could reinforce the African Continental Free Trade Area by stimulating intra-African manufacturing and export diversification. The policy shift is expected to create fresh opportunities for value-added goods and services across Africa, strengthening the continent’s role in global supply chains.

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has revealed that the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) received about N1.024 trillion from education tax revenue over a five-year period. This was disclosed by NEITI’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, on Monday in Abuja during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NEITI and TETFund. The announcement was contained in a statement issued by Chris Ochonu, NEITI’s Deputy Director of Communication and Stakeholder Management. Citing findings from NEITI’s industry reports on Nigeria’s extractive sector, Dr. Orji explained that the MoU centres on data and information sharing. He emphasized that NEITI’s independently verified data would support TETFund in strategic planning, revenue projections, and strengthening its accountability systems. “Under the MoU, NEITI will work with TETFund to ensure timely and prompt remittances through early deployment of evidence-based data. NEITI will also provide real-time information on revenue accruals due to TETFund to guarantee transparency and support the Fund in tracking remittances and utilisation. Our joint effort will uplift educational institutions, enhance access to scholarships, and strengthen the research ecosystem across our public tertiary institutions.” Orji further emphasised that NEITI’s role will be to continuously support TETFund with timely, credible, and independently validated data on revenue accruals from the extractive sector. Orji stated that the collaboration would strengthen TETFund’s ability to monitor entitlements, track payments, and identify outstanding remittances—thereby fostering greater transparency and enabling more effective financial planning in the education sector. Regarding education tax contributions from the extractive sector, data from NEITI’s industry audit reports showed that TETFund received ₦322.99 billion in 2022. In 2023, revenue surged to ₦571.01 billion—the highest annual inflow recorded so far. From 2019 to 2021, total accruals amounted to ₦644.19 billion, with ₦624.32 billion disbursed. These figures highlight the critical contribution of the extractive sector to funding Nigeria’s tertiary education system.