News
FG directs MDAs in states to stop operating accounts with commercial banks
The federal government has directed Federal Pay Officers (FPOs) across the country to ensure that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the states strictly comply with the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy by not operating accounts with commercial banks or circumventing its provisions.
The Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein, issued this directive during a working visit to the Federal Pay Office in Benin, Edo State, as part of her ongoing nationwide tour to assess the operations and challenges of FPOs.
A statement from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Bawa Mokwa, said that MDAs must adhere strictly to the TSA framework.
Dr. Madein reiterated that any MDA seeking to operate an account with a commercial bank must obtain direct approval from the President, which must be communicated through the AGF based on established guidelines.
To enforce compliance, she mandated FPOs to uphold transparency, dedication, and professionalism in their duties. As representatives of the OAGF, she urged them to maintain high ethical standards and avoid any actions that could undermine the credibility of the Federal Treasury.
Dr. Madein also stressed the importance of accurate financial records, warning that inefficiency could be perceived if records do not meet the required standards. She assured that officials from the Treasury headquarters would conduct regular inspections of FPOs to ensure compliance.
Additionally, she stressed the need for FPOs to be well-versed in financial regulations, including the Constitution, Financial Regulations, and the Public Procurement Act, to enhance their effectiveness.
Recognizing the operational challenges faced by FPOs, Dr. Madein disclosed that the federal government is constructing new office buildings in some states to provide permanent solutions to accommodation issues. She reaffirmed the OAGF’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare and well-being of FPO staff.
News
JAMB releases Thursday’s UTME results
In a statement issued by the Board on Friday, and signed by its spokesperson Fabian Benjamin, candidates were advised to check their results by sending “UTMERESULT” via SMS to 55019 or 66019, using the same phone number (SIM) used during registration.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has released the results of candidates who sat for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination on Thursday, April 16, 2026, with a total of 632,788 results now available for viewing.
In a statement issued by the Board on Friday, and signed by its spokesperson Fabian Benjamin, candidates were advised to check their results by sending “UTMERESULT” via SMS to 55019 or 66019, using the same phone number (SIM) used during registration.
JAMB clarified that at this stage, candidates can only view their results, as printing options are not yet available.
It also issued a strong warning against attempts to manipulate or alter result messages received from official channels, stressing that such actions constitute a criminal offence.
The Board added that it is already taking action against offenders, revealing that some suspects are currently in custody.
“Currently, two candidates and one parent are in custody for engaging in result falsification using AI and other electronic means. Any candidate found culpable will face the full consequences of the law,” it stated.
News
Arise TV Deputy Director News Win Editor of The Year Award
The award’s: “In recognition of your exceptional editorial prowess, insightful journalism, and outstanding contributions to media excellence in Nigeria.”
Deputy Director of News, Arise TV, Ohi OIdiai, has won Editor Of The Year 2026 Awards category, courtsey of The Industry Newspaper.
In a statement, the organiser said that the award was: “In recognition of your exceptional editorial prowess, insightful journalism, and outstanding contributions to media excellence in Nigeria.”
Details later…
News
JUST IN: Tinubu Signs ₦68.32 Trillion 2026 Budget
……Extends 2025 Implementation to June 30
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given assent to the 2026 Appropriation Bill, approving a record aggregate expenditure of ₦68.32 trillion for the fiscal year.
The President also signed legislation extending the implementation period of the 2025 budget specifically its capital component from March 31, 2026, to June 30, 2026.
According to details of the new budget, ₦4.799 trillion is allocated for statutory transfers, while debt service is pegged at ₦15.8 trillion. Recurrent expenditure stands at ₦15.4 trillion, with the Development Fund for Capital Expenditure receiving ₦32.2 trillion.
Capital spending thus accounts for approximately 50 percent of the total budget, reflecting the administration’s focus on infrastructure development, national security, economic stability, and inclusive growth.
A statement from the State House described the allocations as striking a strategic balance between mandatory obligations, debt servicing, day-to-day government operations, and productive capital investments aimed at boosting productivity and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.
President Tinubu also assented to the Appropriation (Repeal and Enactment) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which formally extends the 2025 capital projects window. Officials said the extension will allow Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to complete advanced-stage infrastructure and development projects, improve execution rates, and deliver better value for public funds.
The 2026 Appropriation Act takes effect from April 1, 2026, paving the way for full implementation in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The President has directed all MDAs to ensure disciplined, transparent, and efficient use of resources, with strict emphasis on value for money and timely project delivery.
President Tinubu commended the National Assembly for its swift consideration and passage of the budget, describing it as a demonstration of diligence, cooperation, and patriotism.
He reaffirmed the need for continued collaboration between the Executive and Legislative branches to advance national development goals.
The President further assured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to deepening fiscal reforms, boosting revenue generation, stimulating economic growth, creating jobs, and strengthening social protection programmes.
The announcement was made by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, on April 17, 2026.
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