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Presidential Warning: Trump Signals Antitrust Concerns Over Netflix-Warner Bros. Mega-Deal

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Presidential Warning: Trump Signals Antitrust Concerns Over Netflix-Warner Bros. Mega-Deal

Washington, D.C. – The proposed acquisition of Warner Bros.1 Discovery (WBD) assets by Netflix, valued at an estimated $72 billion, has run directly into a political and regulatory roadblock, with US President Donald Trump raising potential antitrust concerns over the deal.2

 

Speaking at an event on Sunday, December 7, 2025, President Trump stated that the sheer market share of the combined media entity “could be a problem” and indicated that the White House would be personally involved in the ultimate regulatory decision.3

 

Market Dominance Becomes a Political Issue

The President’s comments add significant political scrutiny to a transaction that already faces rigorous review from the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Antitrust Division.4

 

  • Market Share Concern: President Trump pointed specifically to Netflix’s already dominant position in the streaming market.5 “Netflix has a very big market share, and when they have Warner Brothers, you know, that share goes up a lot,” he said.6

     

  • Direct Involvement: He went further by asserting, “I’ll be involved in that decision,” signaling a high level of executive interest in the merger’s fate.7

     

The proposed deal would merge the world’s leading streaming service, Netflix, with WBD’s studio and streaming operations, including the HBO Max platform and global franchises like Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, and DC Comics.8 This union would put two of the top four streaming services under single ownership, potentially giving the merged company control of over 30% of the US streaming market, a level that historically triggers severe antitrust warnings.9

 

Pre-emptive Lobbying and Industry Pushback

The President’s remarks come despite a recent lobbying push by Netflix. It was confirmed that Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos met with President Trump at the White House recently to argue the company’s case.10

 

  • Netflix’s Argument: Netflix is expected to argue that the market definition should be broadened to include platforms like YouTube and TikTok, which would statistically dilute their perceived market dominance.11

     

  • Writers Guild Opposition: The Writers Guild of America has already called for the deal to be blocked, warning that such massive consolidation could lead to job losses, lower wages, and a reduction in content diversity for consumers.12

     

  • Rival Bidders: The deal also sidelines rival bidder Paramount Skydance Corporation, whose leadership has close ties to the Trump administration, adding a layer of political intrigue to the regulatory review.13

     

The President’s direct warning intensifies the challenges for Netflix and WBD, suggesting that the path to approval for the multi-billion-dollar merger will be a protracted and highly scrutinized process.14

 

Would you like to know more about the legal precedents for blocking major media mergers in the US, or the break-up fee that WBD would face if they terminated the Netflix deal for a rival offer?

Hostile Takeover: Paramount Launches $108.4 Billion Bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, Challenging Netflix

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Hostile Takeover: Paramount Launches $108.4 Billion Bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, Challenging Netflix

Los Angeles, USA – Hollywood is facing its most aggressive takeover battle in years after Paramount Skydance Corporation launched a $108.4 billion hostile bid to acquire the entirety of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD). The massive all-cash proposal directly challenges the $82.7 billion deal WBD had previously accepted from streaming giant Netflix just days prior.

The highly contentious offer, announced on Monday, December 8, 2025, signals Paramount’s determination to derail the Netflix deal and create a new media empire capable of competing at the highest global level.

Paramount’s Superior Offer and Hostile Strategy

Paramount’s bid, led by CEO David Ellison, is valued at $30.00 per share for the entire WBD conglomerate, including its valuable cable network division (CNN, TNT, TBS). This is a significant premium to Netflix’s accepted offer, which valued WBD at approximately $27.75 per share and excluded WBD’s Global Networks division.

Paramount’s hostile approach includes:

  1. Going Straight to Shareholders: Paramount has bypassed WBD’s board, commencing an all-cash tender offer directly to shareholders, accusing the board of pursuing an “inferior proposal” that favors Netflix.

  2. Accusations of Bias: Paramount alleged that WBD’s sales process was “tainted” and favored a single bidder, citing reports that WBD management internally described the Netflix deal as a “slam dunk” while criticizing Paramount’s earlier overtures.

  3. Regulatory Certainty: Paramount argues that its full-company acquisition is simpler and more likely to secure regulatory clearance than the complex Netflix deal, which would require the divestiture of the cable network business and faces heightened antitrust scrutiny.

The Netflix Deal and Regulatory Concerns

Netflix’s bid, which was accepted on Friday, aimed to acquire WBD’s studios, film library (including DC Comics and Harry Potter), and the HBO Max streaming service. However, the deal has drawn political attention and market doubt:

  • Political Scrutiny: US President Donald Trump publicly weighed in, stating the Netflix deal “could be a problem” due to market concentration and adding that he would be involved in the regulatory decision.

  • The Break-up Fee: Netflix’s accepted deal includes a hefty $5.8 billion break-up fee, signaling their confidence, but if WBD were to back out for a competing offer, WBD would have to pay a substantial penalty.

Market Reaction and What’s at Stake

The aggressive counter-bid immediately sent shockwaves through the market:

  • WBD Shares: Warner Bros. Discovery shares surged over 7% in premarket trading, moving closer to Paramount’s $30.00 per share offer.

  • Paramount Shares: Paramount’s stock fell nearly 10%, reflecting investor caution over the massive debt commitment required for the $108 billion acquisition, which is backed by the Ellison family fortune and major financial institutions.

The winner of this corporate showdown will control some of the world’s most valuable entertainment franchises, including HBO, DC Comics, the Harry Potter universe, and an unparalleled film and television library, fundamentally reshaping the competitive landscape of global entertainment and streaming.

₿ Michael Saylor’s ‘Strategy’ Goes Big Again: Buys 10,624 Bitcoin for $962 Million

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₿ Michael Saylor’s ‘Strategy’ Goes Big Again: Buys 10,624 Bitcoin for $962 Million

Tysons Corner, Virginia – The corporate Bitcoin acquisition spree shows no signs of slowing down. Michael Saylor’s company, Strategy Inc. (formerly MicroStrategy), has announced its latest massive purchase, acquiring an additional 10,624 Bitcoin (BTC) for approximately $962.7 million.1

 

This aggressive accumulation, completed between December 1 and December 7, 2025, reinforces the company’s position as the world’s largest publicly known corporate holder of the cryptocurrency.

Details of the Latest Acquisition

The acquisition, disclosed in a regulatory filing and confirmed by Executive Chairman Michael Saylor on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, December 8, 2025, was executed at an average price of $90,615 per Bitcoin.2

 

The key figures from the latest treasury update are:

  • Amount Purchased: 10,624 BTC3

     

  • Total Cost: ~$962.7 million4

     

  • Average Price Per Coin: ~$90,6155

     

Strategy’s Total Holdings Now Tower at 660,000+ BTC

The newest acquisition pushes Strategy’s total corporate Bitcoin treasury to an unprecedented level, solidifying its identity as a “Bitcoin Treasury Company”.6

 

Metric Pre-Purchase (Dec 1, 2025) Post-Purchase (Dec 7, 2025)
Total BTC Held 650,000 BTC 660,624 BTC
Total Acquisition Cost ~$48.4 billion ~$49.35 billion
Overall Average Cost ~$74,436 per BTC ~$74,696 per BTC
Current Value (Approx.) ~$59.4 billion ~$60 billion
Unrealized Gain ~$11 billion ~$10.6 billion

With 660,624 BTC now on its balance sheet, Strategy’s holding represents well over 3% of Bitcoin’s total 21 million supply, making it one of the most influential institutional buyers in the crypto ecosystem.7

 

Funding the Purchase

The nearly billion-dollar purchase was primarily funded through the issuance and sale of the company’s securities, including its Class A common stock (MSTR) and various perpetual preferred stocks.8

 

Just last week, Strategy sold over 5.1 million MSTR shares, generating approximately $928.1 million in net proceeds, which was then deployed into the Bitcoin market, a practice that has defined the company’s financial strategy since 2020.9

 

Saylor remains a staunch advocate for Bitcoin, framing the asset as the superior long-term treasury reserve and a hedge against global fiat currency depreciation.10 His continuous buying cycles often act as a significant market signal, reinforcing the institutional adoption narrative for the cryptocurrency.11

China’s Exports Defy US Tariffs, Surge 5.9% by Diversifying Markets

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China’s Exports Defy US Tariffs, Surge 5.9% by Diversifying Markets

China’s exports experienced a significant rebound in November 2025, climbing 5.9% year-on-year and reversing the 1.1% decline recorded in October. This growth beat market forecasts and was achieved despite a simultaneous and sharp decline in shipments to the United States and continued softness in domestic demand.

The new customs data, released on Monday, December 8, 2025, highlights a successful strategic pivot by Chinese manufacturers to new global markets, diminishing the impact of US tariffs.

The Great Diversification

The key driver behind the export recovery was a surge in demand from countries outside the United States, confirming a major structural shift in global trade as Chinese firms actively reroute their supply chains.

  • US Demand Plummets: Shipments to the United States plummeted by nearly 29% year-on-year in November, marking the eighth straight month of double-digit declines, despite a recent US-China trade truce agreeing to ease some tariffs.

  • European Boom: The decline in US-bound goods was more than offset by strong sales to the European Union (EU), where exports grew by an annual 14.8%. Shipments to other regions also saw robust growth, including Australia (35.8%) and the ASEAN bloc.

  • High-Tech Resilience: By product, key categories showcasing China’s increasing competitiveness also saw strong growth, notably semiconductors (24.7%), ships (26.8%), and autos (16.7%).

Imports and the Record Trade Surplus

While exports recovered strongly, import growth remained sluggish, rising only 1.9% (below the 3.0% forecast). This continued weakness reflects the ongoing challenges facing China’s domestic economy, including the prolonged property sector slump and muted consumer spending.

The divergence between strong exports and weak imports led to a significant increase in the monthly trade surplus, which climbed to $111.68 billion in November.

Crucially, the cumulative trade surplus for the first 11 months of 2025 soared past the $1 trillion threshold for the first time ever, reaching $1.08 trillion—a record high that surpasses the total trade surplus recorded for the entirety of 2024.

Global Geopolitical Implications

The strong export performance, achieved despite a significant US tariff burden, has solidified the view that China has successfully neutralized the intended disruptive effect of the trade war through aggressive market diversification and manufacturing strength.

However, the massive trade surplus is now raising concerns in other major trading blocs:

  • EU Friction: French President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders have warned that the EU may introduce its own tariffs if China does not take concrete measures to address the widening trade imbalance with the bloc in the coming months.

Economists project that the strong external demand will help China meet its official annual growth target of “around 5%” for 2025, though the sustainability of growth into 2026 will hinge on whether Beijing can successfully pivot to boosting its lagging domestic consumption.

TikTok Shuts Down Night-Time LIVE Streaming in Nigeria Over “Inappropriate Activities”

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TikTok Shuts Down Night-Time LIVE Streaming in Nigeria Over “Inappropriate Activities”

Lagos, Nigeria – The social media platform TikTok has implemented a temporary, nationwide restriction on its LIVE streaming feature for Nigerian users during late-night hours, citing an internal review to combat the surge of “inappropriate and adult-type activities” on the platform.

The restriction, which took effect shortly after midnight on Sunday, December 8, 2025, blocks users from hosting or viewing LIVE streams between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM Nigerian time.

The Safety Investigation

The decision comes after a significant spike in content violations, particularly concerning exploitative and sexually explicit acts being broadcast on the platform’s real-time feature.

In an in-app notice sent to eligible creators, the company confirmed the move was part of a safety investigation:

“We’re temporarily limiting LIVE late at night in Nigeria as part of our investigation to ensure our platform remains safe and our community stays protected.”

The restriction, which also temporarily prevented Nigerian users from viewing LIVE streams hosted in other countries, is a drastic measure to allow the platform to review safety rules and tighten control over content broadcast during peak night hours.

Context: A Surge in Violations

The temporary ban follows a period of intense scrutiny over content moderation in the region. Recent data released by TikTok at its West Africa Safety Summit in November 2025 highlighted the scale of the issue:

  • Banned Sessions: Between April and June 2025 (Q2), TikTok banned 49,512 LIVE sessions in Nigeria alone for violating its content and monetization guidelines.

  • Video Removals: In the same period, the platform removed over 3.78 million videos originating from Nigeria for breaching Community Guidelines.

The enforcement actions underscore the company’s efforts to address the emerging concerns related to harmful behavior, including a reported surge in users broadcasting sexual activity during late-night hours.

Impact on Nigerian Creators

The decision has triggered frustration among Nigeria’s creator community. Night-time hours are typically considered the peak viewing period in Nigeria, especially for entertainment shows, interactive sessions, and content streams that attract a high volume of virtual gifts—a major source of income for many creators.

While creators who earn through LIVE gifting have been assured that their balances and previous earnings remain intact, many argue that the blanket restriction disproportionately affects compliant users and effectively cuts off their primary earning window on the platform.

TikTok has not specified an end date for the restriction but stated that it will share updates once the safety checks are complete.

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

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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.

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

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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

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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

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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?

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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.
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