Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal Outlaws Cash Revenue Collection, Sets ₦42 Billion IGR Target

In a landmark move to sanitize public finance and plug revenue leakages, Governor Dauda Lawal has ordered the immediate and total abolition of cash collections for all government revenues across Zamfara State. The directive marks a significant shift toward a fully digitized financial architecture, aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in the state’s fiscal operations.

The Governor announced the ban during a high-level town hall meeting convened in Gusau by the Zamfara State Internal Revenue Service (ZSIRS). The gathering was primarily organized to sensitize key stakeholders on the implications and opportunities presented by the Nigeria Tax Reform Acts 2025, which seek to modernize tax administration and delineate fiscal responsibilities among the federal, state, and local governments.

Speaking at the event, Governor Lawal underscored that revenue generation is a collective obligation shared by all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). He issued a stern warning against the persistence of revenue leakages, duplication of charges, and the illegal practice of collecting funds outside officially approved channels.

“The era of cash transactions for government revenue is over in Zamfara State,” the Governor asserted. “We are building a system where every kobo due to the state is accounted for digitally, leaving no room for manipulation or misappropriation.”

The Governor’s executive order is backed by the recently re-enacted Zamfara State Consolidated Revenue Law, which provides a fortified legal framework for revenue administration. The new law consolidates the authority of the state revenue service, harmonizing the collection of both tax and non-tax revenues under a single, unified, and digital-first system.

In line with these aggressive reforms, the Zamfara State Government has set a bold Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) target for the 2025 fiscal year, aiming to generate between ₦38 billion and ₦42 billion. Officials stated that the target is achievable through the ongoing reforms, which are focused on expanding the tax net, improving collection efficiency, and embedding robust accountability mechanisms across all revenue-generating entities.

The town hall meeting served as a platform to engage with stakeholders on how to navigate the new tax laws and leverage technology to boost state revenue without overburdening citizens. The event concluded on a high note with the presentation of awards of excellence to various MDAs and individuals who demonstrated outstanding performance and diligence in revenue remittance, setting a precedent for others to follow under the new dispensation.

Dr Chris Okafor Withdraws Earlier Apology

The Generational Prophet and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Worldwide, Dr Chris Okafor, has withdrawn the public apology he recently issued in response to allegations made against him by a faded actress and certain social media influencers.

The allegations claimed, among other things, that he had promised marriage to an aggrieved woman. Dr Okafor has consistently described the claims as untrue.

Explaining his initial decision to apologise, the cleric said the move was made in an effort to calm tensions and shield his mentors and spiritual fathers, whom he said were being unfairly attacked on social media without verified facts. He also noted that conflicting advice from some associates influenced his earlier stance.

However, after reviewing the interpretation and implications of the apology, Dr Okafor stated that he concluded it was inappropriate to apologise for actions he insists he did not commit.

“If there was any apology, I withdraw it,” he said. “The allegations against me are false and amount to blackmail. It is wrong for me to apologise for what I did not do.”

He further expressed confidence that the truth has begun to emerge, adding that he would refrain from making further comments as the matter is now before the court.

“The court will determine who is lying and who is blackmailing,” he said.
April 16, 2026, has been fixed by the High Court of Nigeria for a final declaration on the matter.

By Christopher David

CARNIVAL OF HONOUR AS OWERRI YOUTHS STORM AIRPORT FOR ADA IMO

It was a homecoming that will linger in public memory for years in Imo State, as youths from across Owerri Zone converged in their hundreds to welcome their illustrious daughter — High Chief (Dr.) Princess Chetachi Nwoga-Ecton, fondly known as Ada Imo and Adaure.

The usually calm atmosphere of the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport was transformed into a vibrant cultural arena on Saturday, February 28, 2026, as drums rolled, dancers swirled, and banners fluttered in celebration of a woman widely regarded as a global ambassador of compassion.

The celebrated philanthropist was escorted from Abuja by His Excellency Amb. Dr. Yahaya Mohammad Kyabo Fagge, FCIML, USA — Fan Darman Jiwa Wakilin Sarkin Jiwa, FCT Abuja, Emirate Council — under the directive of the Northern Emirates in recognition of her numerous charity services across Northern Nigeria.

The symbolic gesture underscored the cross-regional goodwill she has cultivated through years of humanitarian outreach.

What began as a formal reception quickly evolved into a carnival of pride, unity, and admiration.

Clad in coordinated outfits, chanting solidarity songs and waving placards, young men and women gathered long before her arrival.

The air vibrated with the rhythm of traditional drums as cultural troupes performed energetically, showcasing a rich display of Igbo heritage — a colorful fusion of dance, music, and communal joy.

Media organizations from within and outside the state were on ground, capturing every moment of what observers described as one of the most spontaneous youth-led gatherings witnessed at the airport in recent times.

High Chief Princess Chetachi Nwoga-Ecton, a respected philanthropist with far-reaching humanitarian footprints, appeared visibly moved by the overwhelming show of affection.

Known for her unwavering commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities and empowering women and children, her return symbolized more than a routine visit — it became a celebration of identity, excellence, and shared pride.

In passionate remarks delivered at the scene, several youth leaders urged the Ada Imo to consider venturing into the political arena.

According to them, her leadership capacity, global exposure, and humanitarian record position her as a credible voice capable of advancing the interests of Owerri Zone and beyond.

“She has done so much without holding public office. Imagine what she could achieve with a political platform,” one youth coordinator declared to resounding applause.

Despite the mounting appeals, the philanthropist refrained from making any political pronouncement.

She warmly acknowledged the crowd but remained silent on the issue of political ambition — a silence that has since sparked conversations across the zone.

Whether this historic reception signals the beginning of a new chapter in her public journey remains to be seen.

For now, what is undeniable is the depth of admiration and expectation invested in her by the younger generation.

As chants of “Ada Imo! Ada Imo!” echoed through the airport premises, one message stood unmistakably clear:

Owerri has welcomed home not just a daughter, but a living symbol of pride, possibility, and promise.