Minister Stresses Key Role of Execution in Africa's Tax Overhaul

Minister Stresses Key Role of Execution in Africa's Tax Overhaul

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5:02:00 PM

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The Importance of Implementation in Public Financial Management

In Addis Ababa on October 8, 2025, the Revenues Minister Aynalem Nigussie emphasized that while developing policies and ambitious reforms in taxation and public financial management (PFM) is crucial, it is not enough on its own. She pointed out that the real impact of these initiatives depends on effective implementation, institutional capacity, and sustained political commitment across the African continent.

During the opening of the 11th Africa Think Tank Summit, the minister highlighted that experience has consistently shown that policy alone is insufficient. According to her, what Africa needs today is not only policy action but also the right implementation measures to ensure that reforms translate into tangible outcomes.

By addressing the disconnection between policy commitment and practical implementation, Africa can strengthen its economic governance, enhance public trust in institutions, and develop a strong and competent public financial management system.

Aynalem further stressed that effective domestic revenue mobilization is essential for African nations to sustainably invest in essential social services and productive sectors such as transport, energy, agriculture, and digital innovation. These sectors are key drivers of inclusive growth and long-term transformation.

She noted that robust public financial management and domestic resource mobilization are pillars of economic sovereignty. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of moving decisively from policy to action and from dependency to self-reliance.

Ethiopia’s Strategic Investments in Public Financial Management

The Revenues Minister mentioned that Ethiopia has made sustained and strategic investments in strengthening its public financial management system over several years. This effort reflects a commitment to building a more resilient and efficient fiscal framework.

Mamadou Biteye, Executive Secretary of the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), echoed similar sentiments. He pointed out that the gap between policy targets and actual outcomes highlights the challenges of implementation. Strengthening citizen trust, improving service delivery, and enhancing administrative capacity are as critical as legal and policy frameworks or policy reforms, he said.

Biteye further noted that domestic resource mobilization is not just an economic necessity but also a matter of sovereignty, dignity, and freedom. Therefore, there is a pressing need to monitor implementation policies and ensure that reforms deliver results on the ground.

Think Tanks as Catalysts for Change

Zadig Abraha, President of the African Leadership Excellence Academy, stated that the role of think tanks is truly manifested where data becomes direction, where research becomes resolved, and where thought becomes transformation. This perspective underscores the importance of think tanks in driving meaningful change through evidence-based solutions.

The three-day summit, held under the theme “From Taxation to Action: Bridging Policy and Implementation in Public Financial Management in Africa,” aims to exchange insights on closing the gap between policy and implementation in PFM. It will also explore cutting-edge issues, including:

• Digital taxation
• Debt sustainability
• Gender-responsive budgeting
• Citizen engagement

These topics reflect the evolving landscape of public financial management and the need for innovative approaches to address contemporary challenges.

Lagos OPD Marks 25 Years with N815m Recovery and 200,000 Petitions

Lagos OPD Marks 25 Years with N815m Recovery and 200,000 Petitions

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5:01:00 PM

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A Legacy of Justice: The 25th Anniversary of the Bureau of Public Defender in Lagos

The Bureau of Public Defender (BPD) in Lagos has come a long way since its establishment in July 2000 under the administration of Governor Bola Tinubu. Initially conceived as a modest unit under the Directorate for Citizens’ Rights, it has grown into an autonomous agency that is now a cornerstone of the Lagos justice system. Its mission to democratise access to justice and ensure that vulnerable groups—women, children, the poor, and others—receive legal representation and protection has become a model of people-centred justice.

This year’s 25th anniversary celebration was more than just a ceremony; it was a profound reflection on the progress made, the challenges still ahead, and the enduring importance of access to justice in governance. Leaders from law, governance, and advocacy gathered at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, to celebrate the silver jubilee of the Office of the Public Defender (OPD) and reflect on its journey, impact, and future.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who chaired the event, described the OPD as one of Lagos State’s boldest innovations in governance. He highlighted how the office has “defended the defenceless, given voice to the voiceless, and made justice accessible to every resident regardless of means.” According to the governor, since its inception, the office has recovered N815,260,993.43 and $52,884.59 in compensation and monetary claims on behalf of indigent clients. Over the last six years alone, the BPD handled 49,856 cases in court, winning 86 per cent of judgments, and resolved 14,606 petitions through mediation.

Beyond the courtroom, the BPD has delivered over 57,000 services, including legal advice, criminal defense, rescuing victims of abuse, protecting children in conflict with the law, and resolving employment disputes at the National Industrial Court. These efforts have touched countless lives, restored futures, and reclaimed dignity.

Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), framed the OPD’s 25-year celebration as both a milestone and a challenge to deepen institutional capacity. He praised the foresight of those who conceived the OPD in 2000, stressing that its transformation into a Bureau earlier this year was a deliberate step to anchor it within Lagos’ justice architecture. Pedro emphasized that the occasion was not only an official duty but also a reflection on the story of justice in Lagos and the promise to make it available to all, regardless of status or circumstance.

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), highlighted that Lagos had achieved consistency in justice-sector policy, a rarity in Nigeria. He noted that successive governments have kept the idea growing, leading to a complex institution with nine outlets across the state, providing real, tangible services that protect women, children, and vulnerable persons from abuse, unlawful detention, and denial of justice.

Keynote speaker, Retired U.S. Judge Ann Claire Williams, described Lagos as a “rock star” in justice reform. She praised the leadership and board of the BPD, emphasizing that the struggle for justice is global and that we must never give up.

Former chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye (SAN), urged the OPD to prepare for the challenges of the digital era. He argued that public defence is central to anti-corruption and governance, and that without access to justice, impunity thrives.

The anniversary featured panel discussions about the challenges ahead. Legal practitioners and academics pressed for reforms to sustain OPD’s momentum. They called for increased investment, digitisation, better data gathering, and stronger partnerships with private firms and the Legal Aid Council.

As the BPD looks to the future, it must continue to innovate, secure adequate funding, and leverage technology to reach more people. The next 25 years must build on this foundation, ensuring that access to justice remains a constitutional requirement and a democratic imperative.

FG and CIPM Push for Professional HR in Civil Service

FG and CIPM Push for Professional HR in Civil Service

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Introduction to the HR Reform Initiative

The Federal Government, in partnership with the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM), has introduced a significant reform initiative aimed at enhancing the professionalism of Human Resource Management (HRM) within the Federal Civil Service. This initiative was announced during a sensitisation workshop held at the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation in Abuja.

Purpose and Objectives of the Initiative

The primary goal of this initiative is to reposition HR as a specialised and professional function within the public sector. The reform, known as the HR Initiative, aims to align the civil service with global best practices. According to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, human resource management is “the nervous system of any effective organisation.” She emphasized that progression into directorate-level roles will now require professional HR certification.

Key Components of the Reform

The reform includes several key components:

• National HR Competency Framework: A comprehensive framework will be introduced to define the skills and competencies required for HR professionals.
• Accreditation by CIPM and International Partners: HR professionals will be accredited by CIPM and international partners to ensure global standards are met.
• Transition Plan: Officers currently in HR roles will be required to commence their certification within 12 months. By January 2026, preference in HR postings will be given to certified or actively certifying professionals.

Role of CIPM in the Reform

Walson-Jack reaffirmed that CIPM remains the only institution with statutory authority to certify HR professionals in Nigeria, in line with its enabling Act. This positions CIPM as a key partner in implementing the professionalisation agenda.

Support from CIPM Leadership

Ahmed Gobir, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIPM, described the initiative as “a defining moment for Nigeria’s public sector.” He added that the institute was ready to support the government in transforming HR practice in the civil service.

Gobir highlighted that CIPM is proud to play a pivotal role in shaping a new era of professionalism, competence, and accountability in the Federal Civil Service. He stated that this reform reinforces the institute’s mandate to develop ethical and world-class HR practitioners who drive sustainable people and organisational performance.

Impact on the Civil Service

This initiative is expected to have a profound impact on the Federal Civil Service. By ensuring that HR professionals meet high standards of competency and certification, the reform aims to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the public sector.

Conclusion

The HR Initiative marks a significant step towards modernising the Federal Civil Service and aligns it with global standards. With the collaboration between the Federal Government and CIPM, the future of HR in Nigeria looks promising, with a focus on professionalism, competence, and accountability.

Lagos OPD Marks 25 Years with N815m Recovery and 200,000 Petitions

Lagos OPD Marks 25 Years with N815m Recovery and 200,000 Petitions

Tips Cantik dan Sehat

5:01:00 PM

0 komentar

A Legacy of Justice: The 25th Anniversary of the Bureau of Public Defender in Lagos

The Bureau of Public Defender (BPD) in Lagos has come a long way since its establishment in July 2000 under the administration of Governor Bola Tinubu. Initially conceived as a modest unit under the Directorate for Citizens’ Rights, it has grown into an autonomous agency that is now a cornerstone of the Lagos justice system. Its mission to democratise access to justice and ensure that vulnerable groups—women, children, the poor, and others—receive legal representation and protection has become a model of people-centred justice.

This year’s 25th anniversary celebration was more than just a ceremony; it was a profound reflection on the progress made, the challenges still ahead, and the enduring importance of access to justice in governance. Leaders from law, governance, and advocacy gathered at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, to celebrate the silver jubilee of the Office of the Public Defender (OPD) and reflect on its journey, impact, and future.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who chaired the event, described the OPD as one of Lagos State’s boldest innovations in governance. He highlighted how the office has “defended the defenceless, given voice to the voiceless, and made justice accessible to every resident regardless of means.” According to the governor, since its inception, the office has recovered N815,260,993.43 and $52,884.59 in compensation and monetary claims on behalf of indigent clients. Over the last six years alone, the BPD handled 49,856 cases in court, winning 86 per cent of judgments, and resolved 14,606 petitions through mediation.

Beyond the courtroom, the BPD has delivered over 57,000 services, including legal advice, criminal defense, rescuing victims of abuse, protecting children in conflict with the law, and resolving employment disputes at the National Industrial Court. These efforts have touched countless lives, restored futures, and reclaimed dignity.

Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), framed the OPD’s 25-year celebration as both a milestone and a challenge to deepen institutional capacity. He praised the foresight of those who conceived the OPD in 2000, stressing that its transformation into a Bureau earlier this year was a deliberate step to anchor it within Lagos’ justice architecture. Pedro emphasized that the occasion was not only an official duty but also a reflection on the story of justice in Lagos and the promise to make it available to all, regardless of status or circumstance.

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), highlighted that Lagos had achieved consistency in justice-sector policy, a rarity in Nigeria. He noted that successive governments have kept the idea growing, leading to a complex institution with nine outlets across the state, providing real, tangible services that protect women, children, and vulnerable persons from abuse, unlawful detention, and denial of justice.

Keynote speaker, Retired U.S. Judge Ann Claire Williams, described Lagos as a “rock star” in justice reform. She praised the leadership and board of the BPD, emphasizing that the struggle for justice is global and that we must never give up.

Former chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye (SAN), urged the OPD to prepare for the challenges of the digital era. He argued that public defence is central to anti-corruption and governance, and that without access to justice, impunity thrives.

The anniversary featured panel discussions about the challenges ahead. Legal practitioners and academics pressed for reforms to sustain OPD’s momentum. They called for increased investment, digitisation, better data gathering, and stronger partnerships with private firms and the Legal Aid Council.

As the BPD looks to the future, it must continue to innovate, secure adequate funding, and leverage technology to reach more people. The next 25 years must build on this foundation, ensuring that access to justice remains a constitutional requirement and a democratic imperative.