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Finance & Business

Counter Subversion Bill: A bill for authoritarians: While Nigerians Suffer, The Government Plays Politics

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by The Editorial Board-Business Day

In a time when Nigeria teeters on the edge of economic collapse, facing unprecedented inflation, rampant insecurity, and a population increasingly pushed to the brink of poverty, it is incomprehensible that our lawmakers are choosing to focus their energies on a bill that threatens fundamental freedoms. The Counter Subversion Bill, recently withdrawn by House Speaker Abbas Tajudeen after public outrage, is emblematic of the disconnect between Nigeria’s ruling elite and the people they purport to represent.

This bill, which shockingly sought to criminalise acts as trivial as ’embarrassing’ or ‘disrespecting’ government officials, and even went as far as considering jail terms for those who refused to sing the national anthem, serves as a glaring symbol of the creeping authoritarianism that continues to suffocate Nigeria’s democracy. It is deeply troubling that such a draconian piece of legislation was even conceived, let alone tabled in parliament. Its very existence betrays the fragility and insecurity of those in power, who, rather than embracing the principles of democracy, attempt to cloak their vulnerabilities under the pretext of ‘national security’.

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This is not the conduct of a government that trusts its people or values open discourse. It is the behaviour of a ruling class that fears dissent and craves control, revealing just how far they are willing to go to silence opposition. Rather than focusing on the critical issues that genuinely threaten Nigeria’s stability—rampant corruption that drains the nation’s wealth, widespread insecurity that endangers lives and livelihoods, and grinding poverty that leaves millions struggling to survive—our government chooses to prioritise stifling free speech and punishing those who dare to challenge authority.

Amnesty International rightly highlighted that these are the real threats to Nigeria’s future. Yet, instead of addressing these pressing challenges head-on, the government seeks to divert attention by punishing its citizens for expressing discontent, as if dissent itself is a greater threat than the deeply-rooted crises afflicting the country. This bill is not just an affront to freedom of expression; it is a dangerous step towards eroding the very foundations of democracy, leaving Nigeria at risk of slipping further into authoritarian rule.

It is chilling to think that in 2024, the Nigerian leadership is more concerned with punishing those who do not conform to state symbolism than addressing the massacres in Zamfara, Katsina, and Benue, where gunmen operate with near-total impunity. As gunmen impose taxes on farmers and abductions for ransom remain rampant, it seems that our lawmakers are deaf to the cries of a population living in fear. This misplaced prioritisation not only deepens public mistrust but also highlights the dangerous authoritarian streak in our leadership.

The withdrawal of the bill is a step in the right direction, but it is far from sufficient. Such a bill, which threatened to erode the fundamental rights of Nigerians, should never have been proposed in the first place. Its mere introduction reveals a troubling disconnect between the government and the real needs of the people. Moving forward, it is imperative for Nigerian lawmakers to reassess their priorities and direct their legislative efforts towards meaningful reforms that address the deep-seated issues plaguing the nation. The focus must shift to combating the poverty that traps millions in a cycle of despair, tackling the endemic corruption that syphons resources away from essential services, and ensuring the security of all citizens in the face of escalating violence.

These are the true challenges that demand urgent and sustained attention, not the preservation of the fragile egos of the political elite. Lawmakers have a duty to serve the people and uphold the principles of democracy by enacting laws that promote justice, equality, and prosperity for all Nigerians. Now is the time for courageous leadership that confronts these challenges head-on, with a commitment to transparency, accountability, and the well-being of the nation. Anything less is a disservice to the people and a betrayal of the trust placed in them by those they were elected to represent.

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Christian Wealth Principles

6 Biblical Money Foundations That Unlock Financial Freedom – What the Bible Really Says About Wealth

You will learn about Godly wealth principles and Christian money tips. It covers managing money, financial freedom and you will also explore Biblical investing, and blessings.

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Introduction

Is money evil? Should Christians be rich? What does the Bible really say about wealth?
Many believers struggle with finances due to mixed messages. But Scripture provides clear wisdom about money management. In this post, discover 6 Biblical money foundations that help you enjoy wealth without guilt and handle finances God’s way. This will help you in Faith and finances. You will learn about Godly wealth principles and Christian money tips. It covers managing money God’s way as well as spiritual and financial freedom. You will also explore Biblical investing, tithing, and blessings.

Watch the full video breakdown on our Faith & Fortune Finance YouTube channel [embedded below].

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1. God Owns Everything—We Are Just Stewards

Psalm 24:1 – “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.”

God owns it all—your money, house, gifts, even your ideas.
You’re not the owner. You’re the steward.

Action Steps:

  • Shift from ownership to stewardship
  • Ask God how to manage what He’s entrusted to you
  • Use wealth to glorify God, not just yourself

Quote:

“When we see money as God’s, we handle it differently—with purpose, peace, and power.”


2. Diligence and Hard Work Bring Prosperity

Proverbs 10:4 – “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.”

Financial laziness is mental, physical, and spiritual.
Avoid laziness in planning, learning, and building wealth.

Example: Oprah Winfrey built a global empire through diligence—not luck.
Biblical Application: Psalms 1:3 – “Whatever he does prospers.”

Faith + Action = Prosperity

Action Steps:

  • Show up early. Learn. Network. Execute.
  • Serve God in your work, not just in church.
  • Work is worship when done with purpose.

3. Avoid Debt and Live Within Your Means

Proverbs 22:7 – “The borrower is slave to the lender.”

Debt leads to anxiety, stress, and missed opportunities.
God’s people are called to financial freedom.

Real-World Example:
Chris Hogan teaches the power of debt-free living in Everyday Millionaires. These everyday millionaires became wealthy by saving. They also budget carefully and avoid debt.

Action Steps:

  • Budget with a plan, not emotion
  • Buy only what you can afford
  • Practice the “banana principle”: Don’t chase what’s ripe today but rotten tomorrow.

4. Tithing and Generosity Invite God’s Blessing

Malachi 3:10 – “Bring the whole tithe… see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven.”

Generosity invites God into your finances.

Real-World Example:
Bill Gates’ philanthropy helped eradicate diseases and feed nations. He gave to bless, and the blessing multiplied.

Action Steps:

  • Tithe as an act of faith
  • Give beyond money—give time, wisdom, love
  • Be a blessing to others

5. Invest and Multiply What God Gives You

Matthew 25:14–30 – Parable of the Talents

God expects you to grow what He gives you. Don’t bury your potential.

Real-World Examples:

  • Warren Buffet invests long-term with wisdom and restraint
  • Ray Dalio succeeds through planning, research, and principles

Action Steps:

  • Start small—just start
  • Learn to invest: stocks, skills, businesses
  • Multiply resources for Kingdom impact

6. Practice Contentment—Avoid the Love of Money

1 Timothy 6:10 – “The love of money is the root of all evil.”

Wealth is a tool, not a goal.

Real-World Example:
Dave Ramsey lives and teaches contentment after rebounding from financial failure. He preaches peace over pressure.

Action Steps:

  • Be content with what you have
  • Avoid comparison and consumerism
  • Focus on eternal rewards over earthly riches

🎯 How to Apply These Biblical Money Foundations Today

✅ Recognize that God owns everything
✅ Be diligent and hardworking
✅ Avoid debt and impulse purchases
✅ Tithe and give generously
✅ Invest wisely
✅ Practice contentment daily


Watch Full Teaching on YouTube

👇Watch this full video breakdown with real-life case studies and extra teaching only on Faith & Fortune Finance:


Conclusion

God’s financial principles aren’t just spiritual—they’re practical. Apply them and you’ll see peace, purpose, and prosperity flow into every area of your life.

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Finance & Business

As Nigerians Battle Pains Of Soaring Petrol Price

This is more than just about fuel; it’s about the larger picture of governance failure. The fact that a country as oil-rich as Nigeria can’t provide affordable fuel for its people is a tragedy.

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BY IFEANYI MOGBOLU

The Daily Times-The latest fuel price hike in Nigeria is beyond frustrating. Every time we think it can’t get worse, it does, and yet again, ordinary Nigerians bear the brunt of it.

It’s like a never-ending cycle, where the government’s promises of reforms or stabilisation always end up as empty rhetoric. The cost of living is already sky-high, and now, with fuel prices rising again, transport fares, food prices, and basic commodities are bound to follow suit.

It’s enraging because it doesn’t feel like anyone is truly considering the everyday citizen who is struggling just to survive.

This is more than just about fuel; it’s about the larger picture of governance failure. The fact that a country as oil-rich as Nigeria can’t provide affordable fuel for its people is a tragedy. The subsidies are gone, and now we’re left in a situation where the prices of everything keep climbing, while salaries remain stagnant or non-existent for many.

The disparity between the elites and the masses is growing, and it feels like nobody in power truly cares about the suffering of the people.

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The anger isn’t just about fuel; it’s about the entire state of living. Nigerians are exhausted. There’s no sense of security; power supply is erratic, basic infrastructure is crumbling, and inflation is at an all-time high. How do we live like this? Every day is a battle to make ends meet, and the government seems utterly disconnected from the struggles on the ground.

It’s infuriating that while politicians and elites live in luxury, the rest of us are left scrambling for the bare minimum. The state of living is unbearable, and the lack of empathy or real action from those in power only adds salt to the wound.

There’s a deep sense of anger and betrayal that comes with seeing your country’s wealth mismanaged, while the people continue to suffer. It’s hard not to feel like we are constantly being taken for granted, pushed further into hardship without any hope of relief. Something has to give, because this state of affairs is unsustainable.

QUOTE:

The anger isn’t just about fuel; it’s about the entire state of living. Nigerians are exhausted. There’s no sense of security; power supply is erratic, basic infrastructure is crumbling, and inflation is at an all-time high. How do we live like this? Every day is a battle to make ends meet, and the government seems utterly disconnected from the struggles on the ground. It’s infuriating that while politicians and elites live in luxury, the rest of us are left scrambling for the bare minimum.

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Finance & Business

Nigeria To Receive $5.600,000 From Bill Gates, For Health And Agricultural Reforms, GMOs

Alongside the activities surrounding the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, Vice President Kashim Shettima held a meeting with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation leading to the announcement of the donation by the Foundation’s head of Global Development.

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Bill Gates, GMOs, KASHIM Shettima

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is giving Nigeria through Vice President Kashim Shettima, a $5.600,000 funds to speedy up health and agricultural reforms in favour of the GMOs in Nigeria, and flood relief.

Through the Foundation’s head of Global Development Programme, Dr Christopher Elias, Bill Gates pledged $5 million grant approved for Lagos Business School and partners to develop the agricultural economics they called “industrial cassava” and $600,000 for flood relief in Borno State and other health sector initiatives.

Alongside the activities surrounding the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, Vice President Kashim Shettima held a meeting with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation leading to the announcement of the donation by the Foundation’s head of Global Development.

Recall that on 4 September, Bill Gates had described the Nigeria’s economy as “stagnated” and proposed agricultural reforms for faster and increased growths in crops, fruits, vegetables amongst others to enhance nutritional values of the Nigerian citizens through the agricultural sector.

In that meeting Chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Bill gates urged Nigeria to adopt “innovative crop varieties with shorter growing periods, higher yields, and better pest resistance” pointing to the GMOs to address the food crisis.

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Moreover, at the 79th UN General Assembly in New York, VP Shettima reaffirmed to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the commitment of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu prioritizing health, nutrition, and agricultural development in Nigeria’s national agenda.

In a statement by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said: “we are deeply committed to addressing the pressing developmental challenges facing our nation, particularly the significant malnutrition crisis”.

He emphasised the Federal Government’s dedication and urgently working to secure locations for maize production under the Telemaze programme.

VP Shettima, promising swift action to the Gate’s Foundation on import permits for certified seeds, the VP said, “We recognize the critical importance of food security and industrial agricultural development. The Cassava Accelerator programme, in particular, holds immense potential for our economy.

“We are pursuing a whole-of-government approach to digitisation and data exchange systems, which we believe will revolutionise our public services,” he added while reiterating the government’s focus and commitment to digital transformation.

“With the expertise” of Nigeria’s ministers, “and the continued support of partners like the Gates Foundation,” the nation remains confident in its “ability to drive meaningful change and improve the lives of all Nigerians.”

In his response, President of the Global Development Programme at the Gates Foundation, Dr. Christopher Elias, said the Foundation is burdened with worries of the severe flooding in Borno, and is “committed to supporting Nigeria in times of crisis.”

Speaking of Polio, the Foundation said, “We’re impressed by the national task force’s efforts to eliminate variant polioviruses by year-end,” Dr. Elias noted.

Also, President of Global Growth & Opportunity Division at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Rodger Voorhies, detailed plans for scaling up drought-tolerant maize production and advancing the Nigeria Cassava Investment Accelerator programme emphasizing that a $5 million grant has been approved for Lagos Business School and partners to develop the agricultural economics of industrial cassava.

In his words, “Industrial cassava presents a multi-billion-dollar opportunity for Nigeria,” Voorhees stressed.

He requested import permits for 5,000 metric tons of certified GMO maize seed to build a foundation seed system in Nigeria.

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