Akpabio: U.S. Reduced Embassy Staff In Abuja, Afraid Iran Will Strike Nigeria

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said that the United States government is reducing its embassy staff, especially in Nigeria, over fears of possible attacks by Iran.

Mr Akpabio also said the adjustment in diplomatic staffing levels should not be linked to Nigeria’s current political environment, arguing that such decisions are usually driven by global security considerations.

He spoke on Tuesday at the inauguration of the National Assembly Service Commission’s new headquarters in Abuja, explaining that several countries are currently reassessing their overseas diplomatic footprint amid rising security threats across regions.

“Some say that even now, some embassies are closing down. Not many embassies are closing down. Many of the embassies are afraid of the repercussions from their foes,” he said.

Akpabio added, “For instance, I can say that America is a bit worried about the bomb blast from Iran, and so across the world, they have to reduce their staff in case Iran decides to attack their embassies.

“When people are thinking, oh! Nigeria’s embassies are closing because an election is coming. It’s not because the election is coming.

“Election will come and go, and God will protect you. God will protect Nigeria. Nigeria will outlive this election.”

His remarks come barely a week after the U.S. State Department authorised non-emergency government employees and family members to evacuate its embassy in Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria.

Akpabio

In its advisory, the U.S. explained that “there is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Nigeria.

“Terrorists continue plotting and carrying out attacks in Nigeria. Terrorists collaborate with local gangs to expand their reach.”

But the Nigerian government quickly dismissed the concerns, describing the U.S. advisory as a routine precaution rather than a reflection of Nigeria’s overall security situation.

IGP Disu Received POWA President During A Courtesy Visit To The Force Headquarters

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, today received the POWA President, Mrs. Olufumilola Mutiat Disu, and her delegation during a courtesy visit to the Force Headquarters, Abuja.

In his remarks, the IGP described the visit as a demonstration of solidarity, lauding POWA’s invaluable contributions to the welfare of police families. He acknowledged their role in cushioning the rigors of police service, nurturing officers’ children, and fostering peaceful home environments.

The visit further underscored POWA’s repositioning agenda, which includes the nationwide launch of a free eye care initiative, expansion of welfare programs, and commitments to mental and emotional support, economic empowerment, youth development, and national unity.

IGP Disu Received POWA President

The IGP encouraged deeper collaboration among members to strengthen welfare structures and enhance the well-being of police officers and their families.

Tax Laws Will Boost Opportunities, End Poverty, Says Tinubu

Mr Tinubu, who spoke at the commissioning of the 16-storey Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, assured Nigerians that the new reforms will deliver greater prosperity and inclusivity.

“On my inauguration day, I made a solemn pledge that we will move Nigerians from the dimness of uncertainty into the clear light of renewed hope. I committed to confronting structural weaknesses, restoring financial stability, and building an economy anchored in discipline, equity, and opportunity. Today, I stand before you to reaffirm that these words were not rhetoric; they were a covenant with the Nigerian people,” the president said.

Despite widespread criticism, especially from stakeholders, the Tinubu-led administration implemented the re-gazetted tax laws in January.

Mr Tinubu, who stated on Tuesday that the new tax system was designed to be people-centred and investment-friendly, explained that the laws were intended to liberate the economy from the constraints of archaic laws and make it more globally competitive.

While commending the Nigeria Revenue Service chairman, Zacch Adedeji, for his exceptional performance and the successful completion of the building, Mr Tinubu said no serious nation can achieve lasting prosperity on a weak and fragmented revenue system.

He added, “We are not gathered here merely to commission an edifice. We are here to mark a milestone in a larger national journey: the deliberate strengthening of our fiscal foundation and rebuilding of confidence in public institutions.

“No serious nation can achieve lasting prosperity on a weak and fragmented revenue system. No government can demand trust from its citizens when taxation is opaque, inefficient or unjust. That is why this administration took the bold decision to embark on far-reaching tax and fiscal reforms.”

The president further addressed concerns about the new tax reforms, assuring Nigerians of better performance by the revenue service.

President Tinubu

“The reforms are designed to simplify our system, eliminate distortions and create a fair, transparent and investment-friendly environment. Our direction is clear: to have a revenue system that rewards enterprise, supports growth, and ensures that every contribution to the national cause is matched by feasible value for the people.

“The early results are encouraging and fantastic. Mr Adedeji, thank you very much. We are witnessing improved fiscal stability, strength, stronger foreign reserves, a more efficient trade ecosystem and increased investor confidence in Nigeria’s economic direction,’’ Mr Tinubu said.