Menu
Search
Subscribe
Home Blog Page 40

NAF ALPHA JET PILOTS DISPLAY COURAGE AND PROFESSIONALISM DURING POST-INSPECTION TEST FLIGHT EMERGENCY

Funmilayo
-
0
NAF ALPHA JET PILOTS DISPLAY COURAGE AND PROFESSIONALISM DURING POST-INSPECTION TEST FLIGHT EMERGENCY

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) commends the exceptional bravery and professionalism of its Alpha Jet pilots who safely ejected following an in-flight emergency during a post-inspection functional check flight on 6 December 2025, at Nigerian Air Force Base Kainji. Shortly after take-off, the aircraft developed an emergency, prompting the pilots to act swiftly and with remarkable composure. They expertly manoeuvred the aircraft away from populated areas before executing a safe ejection. The crew is currently undergoing routine medical evaluation.

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has praised the pilots for their courage, discipline and sound judgement, which prevented loss of life. He has also directed the immediate constitution of a Board of Inquiry to investigate the incident. The NAF further acknowledges the prompt, coordinated and highly professional response of its personnel, including Search and Rescue teams, Fire and Crash Response units, and medical practitioners, who swiftly secured the area and ensured the safety and wellbeing of the aircrew. Their dedication, teamwork and sacrifice reflect the unwavering commitment to service that the NAF is known for.

This incident also underscores the inherent risks associated with aviation operations, particularly in military environments where airpower projection demands increased flying activities, complex missions and sustained readiness. It serves as a reminder of the courage and devotion to duty exhibited daily by NAF personnel who willingly operate in high-risk conditions to secure the nation. These men and women, through their relentless sacrifice and professionalism, deserve the utmost honour and respect.

The Nigerian Air Force reassures the public of its steadfast adherence to stringent safety standards and operational excellence. The NAF remains committed to safeguarding its personnel while protecting the lives and property of citizens in line with its constitutional mandate.

#

Lagos “Decem-Bizzy”: The Ultimate 40-Event Guide for Detty December 2025

Funmilayo
-
0
Lagos “Decem-Bizzy”: The Ultimate 40-Event Guide for Detty December 2025

The anticipation is palpable: ‘Detty December’ has returned, and with it, the vibrant pulse of Lagos quickens. The city transforms into a playground of back-to-back concerts, lively festivals, pop-up markets, and sun-kissed beachside raves.

It’s a season to unwind from the year’s hustle, to celebrate under the same sky as your favorite stars, to dive into beloved hobbies, and to simply savor the joy of the moment.

From star-studded stages to carefully curated lifestyle experiences, TheCable Lifestyle has rounded up 40 must-attend events lighting up Lagos this December, catering to every budget and interest.

Part I: The Early Rush (December 6 – 16)

The month kicks off with a mix of beachside parties, cultural showcases, and celebrity appearances.

Event Date Time Venue Ticket Policy
Pulse Fiesta Dec 6 7pm Sol Beach Elegushi ₦8,500 and upward
Ms DSF & Friends Dec 7 8pm Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace ₦10,900 and upward
Ofada Rice Day Dec 7 11am Muri Okunola Prk, VI Free
Timeless Wave 2.0 Dec 11 8pm Sixty by Chef Lu ₦3,500 and upward
DJ James Live in Lagos Dec 13 9pm Landmark Centre ₦15,000 and upward
Bella Shmurda Live Dec 13 7pm Livespot Enterrarium ₦32,500 and upward
Hennessy Artistry Reboot Dec 13 6pm Fidelity Ground Free
Beautiful Nubia Live Dec 14 5pm 51 Adekunle Fajuyi Way ₦10,000
Afrocan Festival Dec 16 11am Freedom Park ₦3,500 and upward
DJ Consequence – Vibe of the Year Dec 16 7pm Queens Events Center ₦10,000 and upward

Noteworthy:

The start of December emphasizes diverse interests, from the free cultural experience of Ofada Rice Day and Hennessy Artistry Reboot to the high-energy live performance of Bella Shmurda.

Part II: Mid-December Concert Rush (December 16 – 21)

This period sees a concentration of major music concerts and festivals, including the beginning of the highly anticipated Flytime Fest-related events at the Eko Convention Centre.

Event Date Time Venue Ticket Policy
Dapper Live: Trench Symphony Dec 16 8pm Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace ₦25,000 and upward
Foodie in Lagos Festival Dec 17 12pm Lagos Encourage Park, Ikoyi ₦2,000 and upward
Outside We Outside Lagos Dec 18 5pm Tivoli Gardens, Ikoyi ₦100,000
Chike Live in Concert Dec 18 7pm Landmark Event Center ₦50,000 and upward
Juma Jux Dec 18 3pm Ilubirin ₦32,500 and upward
BNXN Live in Concert Dec 19 7pm Landmark Event Center ₦50,000 and upward
Music City Central Dec 19 12pm Orange Island Lekki ₦50,000
Plutomania Live in Concert Dec 20 7pm Landmark Event Center ₦50,000 and upward
Free Kick Lagos Dec 20 11am Campus Mini Stadium ₦3,000
The Artini Experience Dec 20 12pm Ikoyi ₦29,260 and upward
Sewa Live in Lagos Dec 20 6pm Bature Brewery, VI ₦10,000 and upward
FUZE Festival Dec 20 10am Tafawa Balewa Square Free
Rhythm Unplugged Dec 21 7pm Eko Convention Center ₦250,000
Palmwine Music Festival Dec 21 4pm Fidelity Ground ₦20,000 and upward
The Bonfire Experience with Victory Dec 21 8pm Glitz Event Centre ₦20,000 and upward
KWAM 1 Live Dec 21 8pm The Mayfair, VI ₦1,000,000 and upward
Movie Night & Chill Dec 21 2pm Pearl Event Center Lekki ₦15,000 and upward

Noteworthy:

  • High-Stakes Tickets: This period features some of the most expensive events, including Rhythm Unplugged at ₦250,000 and the high-end KWAM 1 Live concert starting at ₦1,000,000.

  • Music Concentration: The Landmark Event Center is busy, hosting Chike, BNXN, and Plutomania concerts back-to-back.

Part III: Christmas Week Blockbusters (December 22 – 30)

The crescendo of Detty December, featuring the biggest names in Afrobeats, culminating in the festive shutdown at the Eko Convention Center.

Event Date Time Venue Ticket Policy
Flavour Live Dec 22 7pm Eko Convention Center ₦120,000
Asake Live Dec 24 7pm Eko Convention Center ₦300,000
Flytime Fest with Davido Dec 25 7pm Eko Convention Center ₦250,000
Eat Drink Festival Dec 26 – 27 12pm Orange Island Lekki ₦3,000 and upward
DJ Tunez Black Out Rave Dec 26 6pm Harbor Point, VI ₦16,500 and upward
Kizz Daniel Live Dec 27 6pm Eko Hotel & Suites ₦50,000 and upward
The Cavemen Live Dec 27 7pm Fidelity Ground ₦27,100 and upward
Detty Faaji Dec 27 2pm Muson Centre ₦80,000 and upward
Genged and Lit Dec 27 9pm Gameland ₦15,000 and upward
Aquaholic Beach House Party Dec 28 2pm Havara Beach House ₦1,500,000 and upward
Fireboy Live Dec 28 7pm Eko Hotel & Suites ₦35,000 and upward
Wizkid – GOAT Experience Dec 28 7pm Tafawa Balewa Square ₦50,000 and upward
DJ Jimmy Jatt Rewind Concert Dec 30 6pm Eko Hotel & Suites ₦10,000 and upward

Noteworthy:

  • The Main Events: The Christmas week is defined by the three major star-studded concerts: Asake Live (Dec 24, ₦300,000), Flytime Fest with Davido (Dec 25, ₦250,000), and Wizkid – GOAT Experience (Dec 28, ₦50,000).

  • Ultra-Luxury: The Aquaholic Beach House Party sets a new high-water mark for exclusivity, with tickets starting at ₦1,500,000.

  • Food and Culture: The Eat Drink Festival provides an accessible option for food enthusiasts, with tickets starting from ₦3,000.

Progressive Governors Back Tinubu’s Reforms and Endorse 2027 Re-election Bid

Funmilayo
-
0
Progressive Governors Back Tinubu’s Reforms and Endorse 2027 Re-election Bid

The Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), comprising governors elected under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has unanimously thrown its weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, passing a firm vote of confidence on his leadership and openly endorsing his re-election bid in 2027.

The declaration was the central outcome of a crucial two-day meeting of the Forum and APC stakeholders held in Lagos, hosted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Vote of Confidence and 2027 Endorsement

Announcing the Forum’s resolution, the Chairman of the PGF and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, stated that the decision was based on the governors’ appreciation of the ongoing, difficult reforms and the positive trajectory set by the administration across key sectors of the economy and security.

Uzodimma later urged party stakeholders to intensify efforts to communicate the President’s achievements at the grassroots level ahead of the 2027 polls.

The meeting was well-attended, featuring governors and deputy governors from both APC and coalition states. Governors in attendance included:

  • Host: Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos)

  • Chairman: Hope Uzodimma (Imo)

  • Other Attendees: Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Dr. Nasir Idris (Kebbi), Senator Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Ahmad Aliyu (Sokoto), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Uba Sani (Kaduna) and Dikko Umar (Katsina).

Key Commitments from the Communiqué

In a detailed communiqué issued at the close of the meeting, the governors reviewed the political, economic, and security developments nationwide, making specific commitments:

1. Economic Reforms and Cost of Living

The Forum acknowledged the current cost-of-living pressures resulting from the necessary economic policy shifts and commended Nigerians for their resilience. The governors pledged to scale up state-level interventions to cushion the effects, focusing on:

  • Food Production: Initiatives to boost agricultural output.

  • Social Protection: Expanding programs for vulnerable groups.

  • MSME Support: Providing enhanced support for small and medium enterprises.

  • Alignment: Ensuring state policies are fully aligned with federal reforms to maximize benefits for all citizens.

2. Strengthening Security

The PGF acknowledged the improved coordination among federal security agencies and resolved to take concrete steps to strengthen security at the state level by:

  • Local Security Architecture: Reinforcing local security outfits and structures.

  • Community-Based Initiatives: Promoting local engagement and intelligence gathering.

  • Unity and Understanding: Urging national leaders to promote inter-ethnic understanding and isolate criminality and hate speech.

3. Governance and Party Cohesion

The governors committed to deepening transparency and service delivery at the grassroots level, stressing the importance of strong local governance. They also reaffirmed their loyalty to the APC, pledging to strengthen internal democracy, promote party cohesion, and ensure inclusiveness in preparation for future electoral challenges.

The PGF concluded by expressing renewed confidence in Nigeria’s future and urging citizens to remain calm and supportive of the Renewed Hope Agenda, offering advanced wishes for a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

VAT Allocation Data Highlights Geopolitical Disparity in October 2025

Funmilayo
-
0
VAT Allocation Data Highlights Geopolitical Disparity in October 2025

Nigeria’s Value Added Tax (VAT) allocation for October 2025 reveals a significant pattern of wealth redistribution across the six geopolitical zones, with the Southern zones contributing the majority of the revenue while the Northern zones received substantially more than their contribution.

According to data released by the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), the total VAT pooled from the six zones amounted to ₦508.02 billion in October 2025. Of this amount, the zones collectively received ₦335.14 billion as their share of the allocation for the month.

The figures underscore the economic concentration in the Southern part of the country, particularly the South-west, which contributed the lion’s share of the VAT revenue.

VAT Contribution and Allocation by Geopolitical Zone

The table below details the financial performance of each zone, showing the amount generated versus the amount received from the VAT pool. The “Net Position” illustrates the surplus or deficit for each zone after allocation.

Zone Contributed (₦bn) Received (₦bn) Received as % of Contribution Net Position (₦bn)
South-west 333.01 91.88 27.59% -241.13
South-south 80.48 53.79 66.84% -26.69
North-west 41.82 64.07 153.20% +22.25
North-central 20.51 44.32 216.09% +23.81
North-east 18.94 44.17 233.21% +25.23
South-east 13.26 36.91 278.36% +23.65

Key Observations from the October 2025 VAT Allocation

1. Southern Zone Contributions Dominate

The two Southern zones alone contributed a combined ₦413.49 billion, representing approximately 81.4% of the total VAT generated across the entire country for the month.

  • The South-west zone was the single largest economic driver, contributing ₦333.01 billion—more than the combined contribution of all five other zones.

  • The South-south zone was the second-largest contributor at ₦80.48 billion.

2. Pattern of Redistribution

The data clearly illustrates the fiscal equalization mechanism in Nigeria’s revenue-sharing formula, where contributions are pooled and then redistributed:

  • Net Contributors (Deficit): The South-west and South-south zones were the only two regions that contributed more than they received, with a combined deficit of over ₦267 billion.

  • Net Beneficiaries (Surplus): All four Northern zones, along with the South-east, received substantially more than they generated. The North-east zone, despite being the second-lowest contributor at ₦18.94 billion, received 233.21% of its contribution.

  • The South-east zone received the highest percentage relative to its contribution, taking 278.36% of its generated VAT, resulting in a net surplus of ₦23.65 billion.

This distribution pattern reflects Nigeria’s federal system, where internally generated revenue is centrally managed and shared based on predefined criteria (which often includes factors like population and equality) rather than solely on the principle of derivation.

WHY IS MATAWALLE STILL A DEFENCE MINISTER?

Funmilayo
-
0
WHY IS MATAWALLE STILL A DEFENCE MINISTER?
WHY IS MATAWALLE STILL A DEFENCE MINISTER?
By Farooq A. Kperogi
Even the severest critics of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration admit that the last few days have seen what appear (at least on the surface) to be a visible, reinvigorated, if Donald Trump-induced, earnestness in the fight against the unchecked widening and deepening of the theaters of death and destruction in the country.
The firing of former Defense Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar (who infamously said in a BBC Hausa interview in late November 2025 that bandits are holed up in forests so impenetrable that bombs cannot get to them) and the appointment of General Christopher Musa in his place signaled a praiseworthy pivot in the direction of never-before-seen seriousness in tackling banditry and terrorism.
But this pivot is undermined, even scorned, by the retention of Bello Mutawalle as Minister of State for Defense.
The problem is not merely that Mutawalle has no background in defense or security. The problem is that he is beset by serious, credible and detailed allegations of complicity with the same bandits who have brought Zamfara and much of the Northwest to its knees.
These allegations have surfaced from multiple directions and from multiple periods, and they are consistent in their substance. They cast a dark shadow over his tenure as governor and raise troubling questions about his fitness to hold any security portfolio.
For example, a former senior aide of his gave an explosive interview in November 2025 in which he alleged that Matawalle provided “36 brand new Hilux vehicles” to notorious bandit commanders while he was governor and even maintained contact with these commanders after he became minister.
The aide also claimed that Matawalle purchased stolen livestock from the bandits at discounted prices. These allegations were not vague hints. They were specific actions accompanied by dates, names, and places, and they were made by someone who had worked closely with him.
This is not where the claims stop. While serving as governor, Matawalle was accused by his successor Dauda Lawal of harboring bandit leaders in the government house and turning the machinery of state toward enabling banditry rather than fighting it. According to reports, Lawal alleged that ransom payments to abductors often passed through government channels under Matawalle.
The accusations were so grave that Lawal called for Matawalle’s removal from the defense ministry on grounds that someone tainted by complicity should not be anywhere near Nigeria’s security apparatus.
Several respected Islamic clerics and political commentators have also raised longstanding claims that Matawalle procured vehicles for bandit leaders as part of what he styled as “peace efforts.”
These allegations aren’t recent, politically motivated hit jobs designed to get him out of his current job. They form a pattern that predates his time as minister and have endured long after he left the governorship.
Of course, Matawalle has denied all of these allegations, and has even reportedly offered to swear on the Qur’an that he has no links to bandits. But denial alone is not proof of innocence. The problem for him is not merely the fact of the accusations but the saturation of the accusations.
They come from a former aide, a sitting governor who succeeded him, Islamic clerics and investigative journalists. When allegations come from such diverse quarters and align in content, the burden shifts. Even if none is proven in a court of law, they have already damaged his credibility beyond repair.
Then there is the now infamous resurfaced video of him defending bandits and making excuses for their criminality. In that clip from 2021, recorded during his time as governor, Matawalle said of bandits that abduct, murder, and maim men, women and children: “not all of them are criminal.” He said bandits turned to criminal activities as a retaliation against vigilante groups who cheat them.
Nigerians who have lost family members or survived kidnapping attempts do not need anyone to tell them how tone-deaf such a defense sounds. Although the clip dates back some years, its resurgence is politically devastating because it reinforces what many Nigerians already suspected.
It shows a man who viewed bandits with indulgent sympathy at best. That video alone would have damaged a defense minister beyond redemption. Combined with the other allegations it makes his retention indefensible.
If President Bola Tinubu could ask Mohammed Badaru Abubakar to resign from his post as Minister of Defense to make way for General Christopher Musa, then there is absolutely no excuse for keeping Matawalle.
Like Abubakar, Mutawalle has zero security experience. But unlike Abubakar, Matawalle comes with enormous ethical baggage and a reputation clouded by claims of enabling the very terror he is supposed to fight. Keeping someone with no security expertise is one kind of error. Keeping someone with no expertise, little education and a tainted reputation is, frankly, national self-sabotage.
Tinubu’s original appointment of both Abubakar and Matawalle as defense ministers raised deep questions about his seriousness in confronting insecurity. What was the rationale for placing two civilians with no defense background at the helm of a ministry that requires seasoned security judgment?
Was it political balancing? Personal loyalty? Regional appeasement? Whatever the reason, it was shortsighted and dangerous at a time when insurgency and banditry had become existential threats. If the president now wants to show that he has awakened to the gravity of the crisis, the place to start is with the removal of those whose presence compromises the integrity of the defense sector.
Even on political grounds, Matawalle fails the most basic test. He has never won a statewide election. He became governor of Zamfara only because the Supreme Court voided the votes cast for the APC in 2019, ruled them wasted and ordered that the candidate with the second highest votes be sworn in.
He was what Nigerians like to call a “Supreme Court governor,” not a governor elected by the will of the people. When he finally faced the electorate in 2023, he lost.
Why does the president believe there is political value in a man who has never actually won the mandate of his state? Someone who cannot mobilize his own people cannot bring political advantage to the center. Someone who lost an election despite incumbency certainly cannot strengthen the political fortunes of an administration struggling with public trust.
In other words, Matawalle brings neither political nor security value to the government. Instead, he brings reputational risk. He is a political liability because he lacks electoral legitimacy. He is a security liability because the allegations against him erode public confidence and taint any efforts at reform within the defense ministry.
There is also no shortage of competent, apolitical, untainted security experts from Zamfara who could replace him without creating regional controversy. The state has produced senior military officers and respected security analysts who have real experience with counterinsurgency, civil-military relations and community-based security programs.
If Tinubu genuinely wants to send a message that his administration is serious about the war against bandits and terrorists, replacing Matawalle with a professional would send that message clearly.
The president cannot continue to insist that he is committed to restoring security while keeping someone whose name triggers suspicion and distrust. Nigeria is at a point where symbolism matters as much as substance.
A tainted defense minister sends the wrong signal to bandits and terrorists, to citizens, to the military, and to our international partners. It tells the world that politics still outranks competence at a moment when many are losing hope.
The fight against terrorists and bandits demands clarity of purpose. It demands leaders whose integrity is above reproach. It demands individuals who inspire confidence in troops and communities.
Bello Matawalle does not meet that standard. Every day he remains in that office deepens public skepticism about the administration’s seriousness and chips away at whatever legitimacy the security sector still has.
If the president wants to convince Nigerians that he is taking the security crisis seriously, he must remove Matawalle. Keeping him undermines the mission, insults victims and burdens the nation with a defense minister whose reputation is incompatible with the gravity of the role.
The country deserves better. The security forces deserve better. And a government that claims to prioritize the restoration of peace cannot be served by a man whose name has become a symbol of the problem rather than the solution.
No photo description available.

Full Compliance Achieved: Police Enforcement Team Reports Zero Unauthorised VIP Escorts in Lagos

Funmilayo
-
0
Full Compliance Achieved: Police Enforcement Team Reports Zero Unauthorised VIP Escorts in Lagos

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced a significant achievement in its efforts to enforce the recent directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which banned the deployment of police personnel for VIP escort and guard duties.

The Force Headquarters, through its specially constituted enforcement team, reported a high and commendable level of compliance following a major monitoring exercise conducted across Lagos State on Saturday, December 6, 2025.

Operation Details and Findings

The monitoring exercise commenced at approximately 10:00 hours and focused on key, high-traffic areas known for VIP movements.

  • Key Locations Monitored:

    • The Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge.

    • The Domestic Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA).

    • Several other strategic security points across Lagos State.

Crucially, the enforcement team recorded a perfect outcome: “No case of unauthorised deployment of police personnel for VIP escort duties was recorded during the monitoring, and consequently, no arrest was made.”

Commitment to Core Policing Duties

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, reiterated the Force’s unwavering commitment to the total and full implementation of the presidential directive nationwide.

The rationale behind the strict enforcement is the strategic redeployment of police manpower back to their primary, core policing functions:

  • Enhancing General Security: Freeing up officers to patrol and secure communities.

  • Crime Prevention: Increasing visibility and proactive policing efforts.

  • Protection of Lives and Property: Strengthening the Force’s ability to respond to emergencies and maintain public order.

The Police Force assured the public that the policy will be enforced “nationwide without fear or favour” as the NPF works towards establishing a more professional, efficient, and citizen-centered policing system for the country.

CSP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra

Force Public Relations Officer

Force Headquarters, Abuja

Dangote to Nigerian Elite: Ditch Rolls-Royce and Private Jets for Industry Investment

Funmilayo
-
0
Dangote to Nigerian Elite: Ditch Rolls-Royce and Private Jets for Industry Investment

Africa’s richest man and Chairman of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has issued a powerful and direct challenge to Nigeria’s wealthy elite, urging them to immediately curb the culture of extravagant consumption and divert funds spent on luxury items like Rolls-Royce cars and private jets into productive local industries.

Speaking to correspondents after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa on Friday, Dangote argued that the nation’s economic development and crucial job creation goals hinge on the financial responsibility and commitment of its wealthiest citizens.

The Problem of Luxury Consumption

Dangote strongly lamented the prevalent display of wealth in non-productive assets, suggesting that this mindset is hindering Nigeria’s necessary industrialization.

“If you have money for Rolls-Royce, you should go and put up an industry in your locality or anywhere, part of Nigeria, wherever you feel there is a need,” Dangote stated. “Everybody has a private jet. Those private jets should be in industries, so that we can create jobs.”

The industrialist drew a historical comparison to Nigeria’s past, recalling a period where the President and common citizens used the same locally assembled vehicles, contrasting that humility with the current environment where private jets clutter Nigerian airports.

The Imperative of Industrialization

The billionaire stressed that for Nigeria to transition from an import-dependent economy to a self-sufficient powerhouse, the focus must shift aggressively toward manufacturing and agriculture, supported by a strong and reliable banking sector.

He underscored the severe demographic pressure facing the country:

  • Population Growth: Nigeria’s population grows by approximately 8.7 million babies every year.

  • Massive Demand: This growth necessitates colossal and immediate investments in essential areas like power, infrastructure, healthcare, and education, tasks that cannot be accomplished through imports or consumption alone.

Investing at Home vs. Wooing Foreigners

A core part of Dangote’s message was a clear dismissal of the nation’s heavy reliance on foreign direct investment (FDI). He insisted that local commitment must precede external interest.

“We should stop calling for foreign investors. There’s no foreign investor who will come here,” he argued. “The invitation of a foreign investor is for a domestic investor. What attracts a domestic investor is good policies, good governance, and the rule of law.“

Dangote maintained that once Nigerian entrepreneurs demonstrate confidence by investing their capital locally, foreign partners will naturally follow, either through partnerships or by setting up their own operations.

The Partnership for Prosperity

The Chairman of the Dangote Group also emphasized that national development requires a reciprocal partnership between the government and the private sector.

He urged corporate citizens to fulfill their civic responsibilities, particularly the diligent payment of taxes. “When you have a company, the number one shareholder is the government… We, too, as corporate citizens, must make sure that we pay our taxes,” he said.

He linked tax compliance directly to social development, arguing that proper tax utilization could fund better schools and hospitals, thereby removing the need for the elite to travel to London or Cairo for medical care.

Financial System Warning: CAC Threatens to Blacklist Fintechs Enabling Unregistered PoS Operations

Funmilayo
-
0
Financial System Warning: CAC Threatens to Blacklist Fintechs Enabling Unregistered PoS Operations

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has issued a stern and decisive warning to the financial technology (fintech) sector, threatening to place companies on a watchlist and report them to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) if they continue to enable unregistered Point of Sale (PoS) operations across the country.

The warning, contained in a statement issued by the Commission’s management on Saturday, December 6, 2025, marks an escalation in the government’s year-long drive to formalize the ubiquitous agent banking system.

The “Reckless Practice” and New Deadline

The CAC observed a continued surge in unregistered PoS operators, a practice it described as “reckless and dangerous” to Nigeria’s financial stability. The Commission directly accused some fintech companies of enabling this trend by onboarding unregistered agents, which violates both the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020 and the CBN’s Agent Banking Regulations.

The consequence for non-compliance is severe, with the CAC announcing a definitive enforcement date:

  • Final Deadline: January 1, 2026.

  • Enforcement Action: Starting in the new year, security agencies have been mandated to enforce nationwide compliance, including the seizure or shutdown of unregistered PoS terminals.

  • Fintech Sanctions: Fintechs found enabling illegal operations “will be placed on the watchlist and reported to the CBN” for regulatory action.

The Rationale: Curbing Fraud and Risk

The push for mandatory registration is driven by a need to curb rising financial crimes and security risks associated with unprofiled agents. Lawmakers and financial regulators have repeatedly expressed concern over:

  • Weak KYC: Unregistered agents often operate with weak Know-Your-Customer (KYC) standards, making them susceptible to exploitation.

  • Criminal Exploitation: The lack of formal registration and proper profiling makes it extremely difficult for security agencies to trace transactions linked to fraud, money laundering, and even the payment of ransoms in kidnapping cases.

By formalizing the sector, the CAC aims to assign a unique business identity to every operator, ensuring that all PoS accounts meet the necessary tier 3 verification standards for financial integrity.

History of the Directive

This renewed threat comes nearly a year after the CAC initially began enforcement efforts.

  • 2024 Deadlines: The initial mandatory registration directive was issued in May 2024, with a deadline set for July 7, 2024, which was later extended to September 5, 2024.

  • Low Compliance: Despite the extension, the CAC reported low compliance, noting that a significant number of operators failed to register their businesses. The Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) estimated that over 1.9 million PoS agents operate nationwide, with only a fraction achieving registration by the initial deadlines.

The latest announcement on December 6, 2025, serves as the final warning, demanding immediate regularization to protect consumers and safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s digital financial system before the end-of-year deadline.

Would you like to know more about the specific requirements for PoS operators to register with the CAC or the potential legal consequences for non-compliant fintech companies?

Tipping the Scales: Nollywood Claims Victory in Nigeria’s N10 Billion Box Office Year (2025)

Funmilayo
-
0
Tipping the Scales: Nollywood Claims Victory in Nigeria’s N10 Billion Box Office Year (2025)

The year 2025 has been nothing short of transformative for the Nigerian box office, which officially crossed the ₦10 billion revenue mark by August—a significant leap that underscores the country’s growing appetite for theatrical entertainment. This record growth was fueled by an intensely competitive slate where high-quality Nollywood titles successfully challenged, and often outpaced, major international blockbusters.

Based on industry reports and cinema data compiled up to November 2025, the top-grossing chart reveals a dynamic ecosystem where local content is thriving alongside global spectacle.

The Top 10 Highest-Grossing Films of 2025 (as of November)

The 2025 chart is characterized by a strong six-to-four split in favor of Nigerian films, indicating a maturation of the local film industry in terms of production value and audience appeal.

Rank Title Domestic Gross (₦) Genre / Type Key Takeaway
1 Sinners (Michael B. Jordan) ₦478.0M+ Hollywood (Drama/Thriller) The year’s top film, demonstrating the enduring pull of A-list Hollywood star power.
2 Gingerrr ₦428.8M+ Nollywood (Heist Thriller) Nollywood’s highest-grossing film, proving local genre films can challenge global leaders.
3 Ori: The Rebirth ₦419.57M Nollywood (Traditional Epic) Solidifies the commercial viability of high-budget cultural epics.
4 Superman ₦375.0M+ Hollywood (Superhero) A core tentpole that delivered massive returns typical of a major superhero franchise.
5 The Fantastic 4 – First Steps ₦365.0M+ Hollywood (Superhero) Another blockbuster demonstrating the continued dominance of the superhero genre.
6 Reel Love ₦356.82M Nollywood (Romantic Drama) Shows that well-produced, contemporary romantic dramas maintain a dedicated audience.
7 Iyalode ₦306.36M Nollywood (Drama) An impressive performance for a pure drama, highlighting diverse audience appeal.
8 Labake Olododo ₦264.28M Nollywood (Cultural Drama/Comedy) The commercial power of films rooted in local culture and language.
9 Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning ₦258.0M+ Hollywood (Action/Spy) The resilience of established, high-octane action franchises.
10 Owambe Thieves ₦205.63M Nollywood (Comedy) The continued foundational role of comedy in the Nigerian film landscape.

🔑 Key Box Office Trends Defining 2025

1. Nollywood’s Strong Majority

The most striking trend is the dominance of local content, with six Nigerian films securing spots in the top ten. This performance is a clear signal that Nigerian audiences are demonstrating a strong preference for local storytelling, provided the production quality and marketing efforts are world-class. Nollywood has successfully captured the core market share, making its box office less reliant on foreign titles.

2. Diversification Beyond Comedy

Traditionally, Nigerian comedies were the only local films guaranteed to cross the eight and nine-figure marks. However, 2025 proved the commercial viability of other genres:

  • The Power of Epics: Ori: The Rebirth and Gingerrr demonstrated that high-budget cultural epics and genre thrillers are now major revenue drivers, diversifying the industry’s output and increasing its profit ceilings.

  • Contemporary Drama: The strong showing of Reel Love and Iyalode suggests that audiences are engaging deeply with complex, modern dramatic narratives.

3. Hollywood’s Enduring Spectacle

While Nollywood claimed more spots, Hollywood franchises continued to deliver massive numbers, reinforcing the appeal of the theatrical experience for global tentpoles. Films like Sinners (the highest grosser overall), Superman, and the action-packed Mission Impossible sequel capitalized on established intellectual property and cinematic spectacle, cementing their position as essential calendar events for Nigerian moviegoers.

4. The N10 Billion Threshold

Perhaps the most important milestone is the industry’s Record Growth. Eclipsing the ₦10 billion total revenue mark by August signals a healthy, expanding, and resilient cinema market. This growth is critical not only for cinema owners but for the entire production value chain, promising increased investment, higher production budgets, and greater returns for both local and international distributors.

The performance in 2025 solidifies Nigeria’s position as the leading cinema market in West Africa, driven by a powerful synergy between high-quality local films and globally recognized blockbusters.

New Era for NCS Abuja: Young Innovators Founder Andrew Agbo Abu Elected FCT Chairman

Funmilayo
-
0
New Era for NCS Abuja: Young Innovators Founder Andrew Agbo Abu Elected FCT Chairman

The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) has ushered in a fresh wave of leadership for its Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, announcing the election of Mr. Andrew Agbo Abu as its new Chairman.

The election, which took place during the Chapter’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja, represents a strategic pivot for the professional body, signaling a strong commitment to bridging the gap between traditional IT practice and the vibrant startup ecosystem.

A Mandate for Innovation

Andrew Agbo Abu is a recognized figure in the Nigerian technology space, best known as the Founder of Young Innovators of Nigeria (YIN). His work has largely focused on empowering young talent, fostering grassroots innovation, and driving digital skills acquisition across the country.

His emergence as Chairman is significant for several reasons:

  • Youthful Leadership: The election underscores a deliberate shift within the NCS to embrace younger, dynamic leadership capable of navigating the rapid evolution of the global digital economy.

  • Ecosystem Integration: As a founder deeply embedded in the innovation ecosystem, Abu is positioned to connect the professional structure of the NCS with the agility of Nigeria’s tech startups and hubs.

  • FCT Focus: With Abuja rapidly growing as a technology hub (hosting heavyweights like the NITDA and NCC headquarters), the FCT Chapter plays a critical role in policy advocacy and government relations.

Strengthening the Tech Community

The Nigeria Computer Society remains the umbrella organization for all Information Technology professionals, interest groups, and stakeholders in Nigeria.

Stakeholders expect that under Abu’s leadership, the FCT Chapter will prioritize:

  • Enhanced mentorship programs for aspiring technologists.

  • Stronger collaboration between the private sector and government agencies in Abuja.

  • Initiatives that promote digital inclusion and local content development.

This leadership transition sets the stage for a revitalized NCS FCT Chapter, ready to tackle the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

 

1...394041...583Page 40 of 583

About us

Our platform serves as a dynamic canvas that celebrates and chronicles the convergence of ideas, artistry, and industry, shaping the very landscape of modern aesthetics.

Company

The latest

Spotlight: Olalekan “Swanky” Isiaka — Designing the Worlds Nollywood Lives In

Ranks Screen 0
In filmmaking industry, where scale and speed often test...

Princess Adesile Hosts The Culture Table In London Ahead Of Ojude Oba 2026

Culture Stories 0
Cultural figures, media personalities and diaspora voices gather in...

Sarah Hassan: A Continental Star with Global Reach

Ranks Screen 0
In today’s interconnected film landscape, Sarah Hassan stands out...

Subscribe

© 2023 Ranks Africa. All Rights Reserved.