oleh admin | Apr 21, 2025 | government, government regulations, laws and regulations, money, technology
In an effort to enhance service delivery and boost internal revenue generation for the government, the Bauchi State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) has implemented and rolled out technological solutions into their operations.
As a result, to implement and refine the new initiative, the Board led by its Executive Chairman, Alhaji Mu’azu Umar, convened a roundtable discussion with several key stakeholders. During this meeting, certain common understandings were achieved.
Mu’azu who disclosed this in an interactive session with Journalists in Bauchi, stated that a meeting held between the Board and all the 20 LGCs Chairpersons was aimed to address major challenges especially of multiple taxation, thereby harmonizing collections and blocking leakages.
At present, various agencies are gathering revenues, and taxpayers often claim payment to specific entities without being able to verify either the exact amounts or timing. These issues will be addressed moving forward,” he stated. “We had an extensive conversation with the chairpersons who agreed with our stance.
The BIRS Executive Chairman stated that efficiency needs to be maintained throughout the procedure, noting that an automated system will be implemented since the capabilities at the state level surpass those available at the local government level.
As he stated, “Automation will be crucial, eliminating cash collection and doing away with the manual procedures involved in gathering and recording revenues.”
So, these measures will expedite the collection process, minimize losses, and simplify things since we aim to make it effortless for taxpayers. This way, their costs related to compliance will remain minimal. We planned to initiate this around late January and hope to commence it during this upcoming quarter starting in April, God willing.
The Executive Chairman highlighted numerous transportation unions along with several important stakeholders in the process of generating revenue. However, he mentioned that managing road taxes has posed significant difficulties for the Board historically. Despite these challenges, he conveyed his thanks to God as they are currently surmounting these obstacles.
“We encountered issues since there was no strict implementation of road taxes until recently, when Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed launched the Bauchi State Road Traffic Agency BAROTA. The board is now collaborating with this agency to explore ways to enhance compliance with traffic rules within the state,” he mentioned additionally.
According to Mu’azu Usman, the BIRS has partnered with various transportation unions including NURTW, RTEAN, Achaba, and Keke Napep to implement regulations concerning road taxes. He mentioned that they have initiated weight billing and manifest systems through the collaboration of these unions.
“We are currently requiring updates from Achaba and Keke NAPEP operators to ensure accurate records. For the Keke NAPEP vehicles, we are implementing body numbering to identify those involved in this business effectively. This measure aims to enhance security, improve road safety, and increase revenue,” he stated.
Thus, the Executive Chairman expressed appreciation for the backing provided by State Governor Sen Bala Muhammad, acknowledging the conducive atmosphere he facilitated for the Board’s operations.
He urged the taxpayers to increase their efforts in making timely payments, as this would help the government deliver more benefits of democratic governance. He highlighted that from 2020 until now, all ongoing capital projects within the state have been funded solely through locally generated income.
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oleh admin | Apr 3, 2025 | europe, international travel, laws and regulations, passports and international travel, Travel
Travelers from Britain heading to Europe are being cautioned by an industry group against falling victim to scams due to uncertainties surrounding entry and exit regulations.
With the UK’s
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
Starting this week, scammers are actively exploiting the confusion. ABTA, the Association of British Travel Agents, has issued warnings about fraudulent sites providing imitation passes to UK travelers planning trips to continental Europe.
Starting from April 2nd, individuals without a British passport must apply for an ETIAS authorization when visiting the United Kingdom. This requirement mirrors the implementation of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which will impact travelers from the UK planning trips to Europe.
However,
The launch of ETIAS is scheduled for approximately 18 months from now.
, and currently, there is no need for British citizens to acquire any extra documents for traveling.
What permissions are presently needed for traveling from the UK to the EU?
The UK’s
ETA
Came into effect for European citizens on April 2nd, this rule requires all holders of EU passports to apply for and obtain an ETA prior to traveling to the UK.
The program has been operational for travelers from countries without the need for European visas since January. Nevertheless, its implementation has encountered numerous issues and challenges.
confusion
.
If visitors from overseas come to meet you—whether they are friends, family, or business partners—they will need to verify whether they require an ETA,” states ABTA. “Among the three upcoming modifications for crossing borders between the EU and UK, this is the sole change currently active, which could lead to potential misunderstandings.
A similar regulation will apply to British travelers heading to Europe – known as the ETIAS. Nonetheless, this system isn’t scheduled to launch until the new
EU Entry/Exit system
(EES) goes live.
The EES has faced multiple delays previously; however, it is currently expected to
launch in October 2025
.
The rollout will occur gradually, hence not all modifications will become effective right away.
The introduction of ETIAS is anticipated in 2026, according to ABTA, which suggests it might come into effect towards the latter part of that year. Initially, ETIAS will probably remain voluntary for a minimum of half a year after launch. Currently, British travelers do not require extra paperwork to enjoy holidays within Europe.
With several upcoming adjustments expected within the next few years, our priority is ensuring everyone grasps their implications,” states Graeme Buck, communication director at ABTA. “To summarize, the sole action required currently is for Europeans visiting the UK to obtain an ETA. There won’t be any alterations for British travelers heading to Europe during the approaching summer.
How to submit an application for ETIAS once it becomes operational
ETIAS will resemble the US system.
ESTA
a system where submitting a basic online application provides authorization to move around the designated zone for a certain duration.
Under the EU plan, the estimated cost of an ETIAS is approximately €7 and it will remain valid for up to three years (or until your passport expires within three months). This permit will enable British travelers to visit any EU nation (or multiple nations) for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day timeframe.
As stated by the EU, third-country nationals such as the UK will receive a single ‘grace period’ lasting for six months if they fail to present their ETIAS once.
“Individuals arriving in Europe for the first time after the conclusion of the transition phase will be permitted to enter without an ETIAS as long as they meet all other requirements for admission,” according to the EU.
ABTA cautions that individuals attempting to apply for an ETIAS currently might be vulnerable to scams, potentially resulting in financial losses as well as possible theft of personal information.
Once the time arrives, the sole location to apply for an ETIAS will be online.
official website
Any applications, websites, or social media postings indicating there is an alternate route should be considered fake news.
Visitors will have to provide personal details along with their passport information, and also declare any significant criminal records from the last two decades. It’s mandatory to specify the purpose of their trip and indicate where they plan to reside during their stay.
Schengen Area
the country they plan to visit first.
The charge applies to all applicants who are 18 years old or older but not yet 70. Individuals younger than 18 or older than 70 must still submit an application, though they will not incur any fees.
Given that two more alterations are scheduled, the circumstances might appear complex,” notes Buck. “Once modifications impacting UK travelers begin rolling out toward year-end, both ABTA and our associates will stand ready to assist those affected.
oleh admin | Apr 2, 2025 | government, laws and regulations, politics, politics and government, politics and law
GABORONE – The Executive Secretary of Sadc, Elias Magosi, has praised the recent efforts aimed at transforming the Sadc Parliamentary Forum (Sadc PF) into a regional parliament.
After Botswana’s President Duma Boko signed an agreement last week amending the SADC treaty to facilitate the creation of a potential SADC parliament, Magosi initiated this action.
Mauritius currently stands as the sole SADC member state to have signed the agreement.
Nevertheless, he urged for the proactive participation of the region’s parliaments to guarantee prompt approval of all regional agreements.
Magosi characterized the signing of the agreement as a “significant moment” and an essential move toward regional unification, praising everyone who has contributed over the years to achieve this landmark accomplishment.
“We did not lose hope,” Magosi stated, further saying, “Many leaders have preceded you, laying down the groundwork, and now we stand together as you sign this crucial document. While the nation and past leadership deserve recognition, so do you for quickly recognizing the importance of affixing your signature.”
Magosi emphasized that setting up a regional parliament goes beyond symbolism; it represents an essential step forward in the institutional growth of SADC. This move aims particularly at bolstering democratic governance, providing better oversight mechanisms, and aligning legislation among member countries.
He stated that this measure ensures better regional governance, leading to more effective performance.
“The current laws require an independent advocate and an impartial observer to ensure that both the region and the individual member states adhere to these regulations in a way that benefits our area, our member nations, and our people,” Magosi stated.
Nevertheless, he voiced concerns about the persistent gap between presidential endorsements at the SADC summit and the sluggish pace of ratification by the parliaments of member states—delays that have hindered multiple regional agreements for as long as two decades.
“One of my objectives in this position is to ensure that member states endorse these agreements that we’ve had for quite a while,” Magosi stated.
He stated, “Upon approval of the agreement, a time lag exists between when Their Excellencies sign it during the Sadc summit and when they provide their ratification signatures. This interval frequently spans from 5 to 20 years, leading us to question the reason for such delays.”
He pointed out that this delay is especially concerning since all required internal assessments by legal teams and government agencies are presumed to be finished prior to the president’s approval, which means that ratification ought to move forward without undue administrative obstacles.
“SADC is only as robust as its mechanisms. The organization’s efficacy hinges on the efficiency of these tools. For these tools to function effectively, they require signature and ratification,” he emphasized.
Magosi implored lawmakers throughout the area to take an active role in promoting the ratification and implementation of agreed upon documents.
“It’s an appeal to each one of us serving as Members of Parliament from this area to thoroughly examine these tools and help expedite their implementation. We should aim to match the speed at which member states operate,” he stated.
He remained optimistic that should all necessary technical contributions be submitted promptly, the body forming the Sadc regional parliament might be completed and showcased during the forthcoming 45th Sadc summit in Madagascar.
He emphasized that the proposed regional parliament should be viewed and developed as a reliable, efficient, and beneficial organization, distinct from other pancontinental entities.
We are establishing a regional parliament. It needs to appear capable and efficient, with us as Members of Parliament ensuring its effectiveness… Our role includes safeguarding and maintaining it to ensure it brings benefit to the region and enhances the value for each member state.
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oleh admin | Mar 28, 2025 | business, government, government regulations, laws and regulations, smuggling
MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized an estimated P30 million worth of allegedly contraband sugar at the Port of Subic, as reported by the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA).
Pablo Luis Azcona, the SRA administrator, stated that the Bureau of Customs (BOC) detained the release of 10,000 sacks holding 500 metric tons of incorrectly declared sugar imports from Vietnam.
The SRA refrained from revealing the consignee, stating that it was still unaware of the importer’s identity.
During a press briefing on Tuesday night, Azcona stated that the substance seized roughly three weeks prior consisted of 88% sucrose and 12% dextrose but was falsely identified as simply white sweetener.
‘Not sugar’
“It is officially classified as something other than sugar. Nevertheless, they are undergoing tests to assess their sugar content,” he explained, noting that the SRA sent out staff members to collect samples for chemical examination.
“I get this impression from the packaging and overall look of it; it appears to be meant for reselling. However, that’s just my personal view,” he stated to the press.
Azcona stated that the tests will determine whether the substance is actually sugar. Should this be verified, the BOC will either seize it or auction it off through the Kadiwa store.
Up for auction
“Typically, seized sugar is either sold or put up for auction. Nevertheless, our proposal suggests that prior to being auctioned off, the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) ought to categorize it for use within households. This reclassification would allow us to keep track of the quantities involved,” he explained further.
Azcona highlighted that an increase in these products might destabilize the whole sugarcane sector.
“If items are slipping through undetected this way—since our strategies rely on our output and the sugar we lawfully bring in—it could spoil our plans,” he further stated.
According to the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law, acts such as smuggling, stockpiling, and engaging in cartels related to farm produce are classified as economic sabotage.
The illegal transport and stockpiling of farm produce can be classified as economic sabotage if the worth of the items goes beyond P10 million.
oleh admin | Mar 28, 2025 | business, economics, finance news, laws and regulations, securities
MANILA, Philippines – The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) remains steadfast in enforcing the 20 percent minimum public float rule for firms aiming to list on the domestic stock exchange, though some exceptions can be made.
On Thursday, the regulatory body issued a statement asserting that the current rule “significantly enhances price determination and minimizes chances for price manipulation.”
“The SEC continues to uphold the 20 percent minimum public float requirement for firms seeking an initial public offering (IPO). This stance is particularly strong considering the benefits of increased public ownership towards enhancing market depth and efficiency,” stated the SEC.
READ:
PSE approves 15% share float for companies making their debut
“The float requirement aims to decrease ownership concentration and promote sound corporate governance, thereby bolstering the Filipino capital market,” it further stated.
Following confirmation from Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) President and CEO Ramon Monzon to reporters, it was revealed that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has endorsed their plan to lower the required minimum public ownership threshold to 15 percent for firms aiming to secure at least PHP 5 billion through an initial public offering (IPO).
When relaxing the regulations, Monzon stated that businesses should be encouraged to go public, particularly considering the present unstable market circumstances.
Although the CEO stated that the SEC provided general authorization, the commission later specified that this was permissible only when firms requested exemptive relief.
Up until now, the SEC hasn’t received any such applications from companies planning to go public, like the well-known digital wallet service GCash.
According to the SEC regulations, businesses availing of the reduced public float requirement must achieve at least a 20% threshold within two years after listing on the stock exchange. This target can be reached through additional share offerings.
The SEC is dedicated to sustaining an open, fair, and effective capital market,” stated the SEC. “Although the commission encourages new listings, it maintains strict regulatory criteria designed to protect the integrity and long-term stability of both the Philippine capital market and the overall economy.
Previously, analysts cautioned that decreasing the minimum threshold for public shareholding might deter individuals from investing in the Philippine stock market.
oleh admin | Mar 27, 2025 | community, controversies, government regulations, laws and regulations, news
In an unexpected turn of events, a federal judge has sided with
California
a pair engaged in an argument received instructions to demolish their magnificent, partially constructed cottage within
Montana
national park, enabling them to maintain the property as one piece.
The partially constructed chasm belonging to John and Stacy Ambler, situated on a 2,300-square-foot plot near McDonald Creek in Glacier National Park,
has faced potential demolition following multiple resident complaints submitted to the Flathead Conservation District
(FCD),
SFGate reported
.
Following multiple legal battles, Federal Judge Kathleen DeSoto sided with the San Diego couple in February, stating that the FCD does not have authority over the property since it is situated inside a national park, which comes under federal jurisdiction.
In the most recent development of this continuous struggle, both the FCD and Friends of Montana Streams and Rivers have lodged an appeal, asserting that their arguments could lead to overturning the judge’s ruling.
‘Samanta Tappenbeck, a district resource conservationist, stated to SFGate that Flathead Conservation District is legally obligated to safeguard the natural resources within its jurisdiction.’
‘Thus, the Flathead Conservation District Board of Supervisors opted to challenge the ruling in order to serve the interests of their district’s residents and due to the belief that several aspects were worth appealing.’
The Amblers started constructing their three-story, verdant Montana residence in late 2022 and early 2023. They built a concrete retaining wall along the steambank and set stone foundations into the slope to create a deck.
Nevertheless, the couple’s building initiative ignited local controversy, with people from the West Glacier region complaining that the house could be easily seen by both those visiting the park and their nearby neighbors.
Flathead Beacon reported
.
The grievances drew the notice of the FCD, leading them to conduct an on-site examination at the Ambler residence.
After the examination, the district asserted that the pair had breached the state’s Natural Steambed and Land Preservation Act (NSLPA), commonly referred to as the 310 law.
They justified their decision because they believed the house had been built unlawfully, lacking all required permissions.
According to the 310 law, any person or organization undertaking activities that involve altering or modifying the bed or adjacent banks of a continuously flowing stream must secure the necessary permissions from the local conservation district, as stated by the Flathead Beacon.
Nevertheless, the pair assert that they received approval from Flathead County’s Planning Office, which informed them that they had free rein over the property without any limitations since the land falls within an un-zoned region, as stated.
Hungry Horse News
.
The federal Park Service permitted the Amblers to hook up to the Apgar water and sewage systems.
Despite this, the District’s Board of Supervisors eventually decided that the couple has to demolish their partially constructed house and restore the steambed prior to April 1, 2024.
Nevertheless, the pair opted to file lawsuits in both state and federal courts, contending that the District had overstepped its bounds.
The locals from California do not recognize the authority of the District over their land and possessions since it falls within the boundaries of the national park and sits on an inholding—a piece of private land established before the park was created in 1910.
They assert that the property is part of Apgar, a tiny, privately-owned community within the park established in 1908.
The District alleged that the Amblers were attempting to navigate the ambiguous zone since they asserted that Montana lacks authority over the property due to its location within a national park, which enjoys federal protection. However, they simultaneously argued that federal entities do not have entry because the land is considered private property.
Nevertheless, the District asserted that both state and local regulations apply to private property, irrespective of its location, even within Glacier National Park.
Nevertheless, the couple maintained that Montana transferred the rights to the land to the U.S. when they relinquished ownership, with their attorney Trent Baker stating this was indicated by the phrase “cedes jurisdiction,” as reported by Hungry Horse News.
At the heart of the organization’s case is the assertion that even though the property is situated inside Glacier National Park, this placement does not absolve it from complying with Montana’s state regulations, notably the Montana Natural Streambed and Land Protection Act (NSLPA).
In contrast, the pair contended that the Steambed Act wasn’t enacted until 1976; thus, Montana’s state laws couldn’t be acknowledged at a federal level, as reported by SFGate.
The pair additionally mentioned that the national park should be responsible for managing private inholdings, asserting that the FCD cannot independently reclaim authority over territories where the state of Montana had previously relinquished control to the United States, as reported by the Flathead Beacon.
The sole concern in this matter pertains to whether federal or state authorities have jurisdiction over the Amblers’ estate, as stated by their lawyer, Trent Baker, in thesummary judgment, reports the source.
In DeSoto’s directive, she stated that the arguments exceeded the boundaries of the single claim presented in the complaint. Specifically, she mentioned that these points assert FCD does not have jurisdiction over the Ambler property and that the Streambed Act is not applicable.
In order for the appeals to continue in court, lawyers from both entities need to file their briefs by May 28.
Officials from Glacier National Park stated earlier that they were collaborating with lawyers from the US Department of the Interior to decide if they would participate in the lawsuit, according to SFGATE.
“The Amblers” did not promptly reply to SANGGRALOKA for commentary.
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