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U.S. Commerce Department Strips Natcast of $7.4 Billion Chip Research Role, Calls It a “Semiconductor Slush Fund”

By
Samuel Nwite
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0

The Biden administration’s handling of America’s semiconductor strategy has been thrown into controversy after the Commerce Department declared that the nonprofit entity it set up to manage billions in chip research funding was never legally authorized to exist.

On Monday, officials said that the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) will now take direct operational control of the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC), sidelining the National Center for the Advancement of Semiconductor Technology (Natcast), which had been entrusted with the role.

At the heart of the storm is $7.4 billion in taxpayer money tied to the NSTC, a central piece of the $52.7 billion Chips and Science Act. Commerce officials said the arrangement with Natcast is invalid, describing it as a clear violation of restrictions that prohibit government agencies from creating private corporations.

According to the department, Natcast — created under Biden to manage and disburse the $7.4 billion — was an “effort to skirt clear legal restrictions prohibiting government agencies from establishing corporations.” Officials said the administration “stacked Natcast with former Biden officials” and shielded it from oversight, essentially turning it into a vehicle for distributing taxpayer dollars to political loyalists.

“From the very beginning Natcast served as a semiconductor slush fund that did nothing but line the pockets of Biden loyalists with American tax dollars,” Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said in a scathing statement.

The Commerce Department confirmed it will now reform and directly oversee NSTC operations as required under the $52.7 billion CHIPS and Science Act. That law was passed in 2022 to bolster U.S. semiconductor manufacturing and research in the face of fierce competition from China.

Natcast and the Commerce Department did not immediately disclose how much of the $7.4 billion has already been spent. Natcast, for its part, did not respond to fresh requests for comment. But just last week, the organization insisted it remained closely aligned with White House priorities, describing itself as “a linchpin to realizing a more prosperous, competitive, and secure leadership position for America,” according to Reuters.

The criticism of Natcast highlights an undercurrent of political and legal tension. Some Republican lawmakers have long accused the Biden administration of bypassing Congress in creating the non-profit, while critics say the model opened the door to favoritism and waste.

The Biden administration had announced ambitious plans for the NSTC, including a $7 billion research and development facility in Tempe, Arizona, expected to open in 2028, and another in Albany, New York, which opened in July. These facilities are meant to ensure the U.S. remains competitive in advanced semiconductor technologies.

The episode underscores how central semiconductors have become to Washington’s economic and geopolitical strategy. Chips power everything from smartphones to fighter jets, and as the U.S. looks to curb China’s technological rise, ensuring leadership in this space has become a bipartisan priority.

The tussle over Natcast also reflects a deeper debate about how America should structure its push for semiconductor dominance: whether through traditional public agencies with clear oversight, or through flexible public-private hybrids that critics warn can easily be co-opted.

What the N58.9bn Could Have Done for Osun

By
Mutiu Iyanda
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0
political structure of Osun government for administrative purposes

In recent weeks, the debate around local government administration in Osun State has intensified. At the center of the conversation is the revelation that over ?58.9 billion in federal allocations, meant for the 30 local government areas in the state, has been withheld between February and June 2025. The funds, confirmed through records from the office of the Accountant General of the Federation, remain inaccessible due to the prolonged closure of council secretariats.

The amount in question is not just a line in government accounts. It represents real opportunities that could transform communities, create jobs, and lift thousands of people out of poverty. In this piece, our analyst notes that the failure to put these resources to work raises difficult questions about governance, accountability, and the very purpose of local government in Nigeria.

The Role of Local Government in Grassroots Development

Local governments are designed to be the closest tier of government to the people. They are supposed to provide essential services such as primary education, healthcare, rural roads, water supply, sanitation, and community development. When councils are shut down or denied access to resources, these responsibilities remain unmet, and citizens at the grassroots suffer the consequences.

In Osun, the prolonged political and legal crisis has created a vacuum in service delivery. Council offices have remained closed, and by extension, the flow of development projects has been stalled. Yet, while the political arguments drag on, the people are denied the practical benefits of the N58.9 billion that should have been invested in their welfare.

What N58.9bn Could Have Achieved

To put the withheld allocations into perspective, consider the transformative potential of such an amount if it had been directed toward real needs.

In education, building and equipping a standard secondary school costs around N150 million. The withheld funds could have delivered nearly 400 schools across the state. Alternatively, existing schools could have been renovated, with provisions for digital learning tools and scholarships for students.

In healthcare, a functional primary healthcare center requires between N50 and N70 million. Osun could have built at least 800 such facilities, ensuring that even the most remote villages have access to doctors and nurses. Hospitals could also have been equipped with modern facilities to reduce maternal and infant deaths.

For roads, rural communities often struggle with isolation, especially during the rainy season. The cost of constructing one kilometer of rural road is around ?200 to ?300 million. The allocations could have provided 200 to 250 kilometers of new roads, connecting farmers to markets and children to schools.

In water and sanitation, a motorized borehole costs about N10 million. Osun could have drilled almost 6,000 boreholes, ensuring safe drinking water for nearly every community. This alone would have drastically reduced cases of waterborne diseases.

In job creation, N1 billion could establish an agro-processing or vocational training center. The withheld funds could have financed 50 to 60 such centers, offering skills and employment to thousands of young people. If disbursed as N500,000 loans or grants to small businesses, over 117,000 entrepreneurs could have been empowered to expand their ventures.

Housing also presents a compelling opportunity. At a cost of N5 million per low-cost housing unit, the allocations could have produced more than 11,000 new homes. This would have reduced slum conditions in urban areas and provided affordable housing for working families.

The Human Cost of Inaction

Beyond the numbers lies the real human cost of the withheld allocations. Each day of delay in resolving the political deadlock means that a mother must still walk miles to access healthcare, a farmer must still struggle to move crops from farm to market, and a child must still learn in a dilapidated classroom.

When grassroots development stalls, poverty deepens, and trust in governance erodes. Citizens begin to see government as distant, uncaring, and ineffective. Over time, this disconnection weakens democracy itself, since people lose faith in the promise that governance should improve their lives.

Rethinking Governance and Accountability

The case of Osun should prompt broader reflection on the state of local government in Nigeria. The constitutional ambiguity around local government autonomy has allowed state governments to exercise overwhelming control over council finances through the State Joint Local Government Account. This structure often undermines transparency and accountability, and Osun is only one of many states where grassroots governance has been crippled.

What is urgently needed is not only the resolution of the immediate leadership crisis but also a structural reform that guarantees financial and administrative independence for local councils. Civil society organisations like the Insight Initiative for Community and Social Development have already raised their voices, reminding all stakeholders that governance should be about service to the people, not partisan battles.

A Greater Abia And Call to Service from His Excellency – “Yes” to His Excellency

By
Ndubuisi Ekekwe
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0

At 2.11pm on Sunday, His Excellency, Governor Alex Otti, called. He asked me for the availability to coordinate a very important mission in our State. Quickly, I accepted and thanked him for his bigger “answers” to the Abia people. The government will be announcing later next month. Once that is done, I will share here and get all Abians and the world ready to execute. Abia Youth, great things are coming as His Excellency works to ensure that “everyone is ready and prepared for the future”.

Our state works on three core pillars: the People, the Processes, and the Tools. Many reforms have taken place to improve the processes, making it possible to efficiently organize and reorganize critical factors of production and governance systems. For example, in pension, the processes have been streamlined that the state will not owe a decade-long arears anymore. In education, the leaders have changed things to ensure better students-outcome.

When it comes to tools, the businesspeople and citizens need platforms of markets. And those are better roads, electricity, clean water, security, etc. The state is doing everything to ensure those catalytic enablers are available across Abia. Aba, the industrial city has received special attention because a working Aba will fund other parts of Abia. We do expect the tools of healthcare to come to live with the unveiling of the medical city.

On the People part, Abia needs evolutionary and revolutionary investments therein. A village boy like me will possibly not be writing here without that heritage. But when Abia decided to provide me with great teachers, Abia anchored my future. During my time in Secondary Technical School Ovim, I had the best teachers any state could offer its students: Shorthand, French, Automotive Tech, Woodwork Tech and the typical. Mr Onyezewe – Physics (UNN), Mr Aham – Math (UNN), Mr. Bobo – Biology (UI), Mr Udeagu Jr – Chemistry (OAU), Mr. Ukene – Further Maths (UNN), Mazi Oji – Geography (UNN), Mr Eke – English (UNN), Mr Onyeachu – Automotive Tech (Russia), Mrs Aduanya – Agric Science, Mrs Odumuko – Igbo (UNN), Mrs Ikeji – Agric Science (Jr), Papa Iyke – Igbo (ABSU), and other brilliant tutors.

Abia wants to deepen the capacity and the capability of the People. From primary to secondary, from vocational school to university, from special programs like Abia Leadership Academy to what is coming which I will be working on. We will serve; I will reach out here to many as you support Abia to serve Abians, Nigerians and the world.

#AbiaIsWorking #InvestInAbia #Believe

 

*Ndubuisi Ekekwe has never and will never charge my state for any service because Abia paid for everything when it funded and made those great teachers available. And Ndubuisi does not do contracts and does not know how to send invoices.

Osun Councils’ N58.9bn Allocation Withheld Amid Prolonged Shutdown

By
Mutiu Iyanda
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0

Local government councils in Osun State have been denied access to over N58.9 billion in federal allocations within the past five months due to the prolonged closure of council secretariats, according to official figures.

Data from the office of the Accountant General of the Federation show that between February and June 2025, the 30 local governments in the state received combined allocations of N58,918,119,222.8. However, the money has remained effectively frozen as the councils have not been in operation following a leadership crisis that has crippled grassroots administration for months.

A breakdown of the allocation reveals that councils in Osun Central Senatorial District received N19.52 billion, those in Osun West got N19.16 billion, while councils in Osun East were allocated N20.23 billion. At the local government level, Ife East recorded the highest share with N2.37 billion, while Ede North received the lowest with N1.42 billion.

Civil Society Raises Alarm

The Insight Initiative for Community and Social Development (IICSD), a non-partisan civic group, has raised fresh concerns over the prolonged stalemate and renewed its call for an immediate resolution.

“We condemn the continuous shutdown of council secretariats in the state, due to the protracted leadership crisis. We appeal for calm and a meticulous approach to resolving the dispute, with a view to enable our councils return to full operations in no distant time,” said the organisation’s Executive Director, ‘Jare Tiamiyu, in a statement on Tuesday.

The group said it had launched a daily reminder campaign to highlight the number of days council offices have been locked up, warning that residents at the grassroots are the ultimate victims of the deadlock.

“As a non-partisan entity, we will continue to demand transparency, accountability, and the delivery of good governance to the masses through our Osun Open Local Government (OsunOpenLG) Project,” Tiamiyu stressed. “This cannot be achieved when allocations expected to be used to initiate programmes and policies for the benefit of the masses are withheld.”

Background to the Crisis

Local government administration in Osun has been plagued by disputes since late 2022, when controversies over council elections escalated into legal battles. The administration of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola conducted local government elections in October 2022, but the exercise was challenged in court and declared unlawful.

When Governor Ademola Adeleke assumed office in November 2022, he dissolved the elected councils and appointed caretaker committees, citing the court judgment that nullified the poll. This move, however, triggered protests and counter-lawsuits from opposition parties and ousted council officials, deepening the crisis.

As a result, council offices have remained under lock for much of Adeleke’s tenure, with both political disagreements and litigation preventing any form of structured administration at the grassroots. Analysts say the situation has created a governance vacuum, as critical services such as sanitation, community healthcare, and rural development have stalled in many parts of the state.

Stakeholders Urge Quick Resolution

Observers have warned that the prolonged shutdown could worsen poverty and underdevelopment at the grassroots, particularly as local governments are meant to be the closest tier of government to the people.

“The withholding of nearly N59 billion meant for local governments is a major setback for the state,” said a political analyst in Osogbo. “These funds could have been used for roads, markets, schools, and health centres, but instead they are locked in political limbo.”

The IICSD has called on both the state government and the opposition to prioritise the welfare of citizens over partisan interests. It also urged traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and community leaders to intervene in order to break the deadlock.

A Test for Governance

For many residents, the crisis has raised deeper questions about the future of local government administration in Nigeria, where state governments often exercise control over council funds through the controversial State Joint Local Government Account.

Activists argue that unless there is constitutional reform to guarantee financial and administrative autonomy for local councils, grassroots governance will continue to suffer political interference.

In Osun, the fate of the N58.9 billion allocation remains uncertain, with no clear timeline for the reopening of the council secretariats. For now, residents in towns and villages across the state continue to wait for essential services that only functional local governments can deliver.

“The councils belong to the people,” Tiamiyu said. “They must be reopened for the greater good of all.”

What you need to know to start playing at Gratowin Casino in Italy

By
TI Partners
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0

Introduction

The allure of online casinos has swept across Italy, transforming how people experience the thrill of chance and strategy. Among the platforms vying for attention, Gratowin has emerged as a notable contender, drawing players in with its promise of entertainment and potential rewards. But before diving headfirst into this digital world of spinning reels and virtual cards, it’s crucial to understand the lay of the land. Navigating the world of online casinos requires a blend of excitement and caution, particularly when dealing with legal frameworks and the importance of responsible gaming.

This guide serves as a compass, pointing you towards a secure and enjoyable experience at Gratowin Casino. Consider this your go-to resource for learning how to legally engage with Gratowin in Italy, ensuring every spin, every bet, and every moment is underpinned by knowledge and responsibility. From grasping the legal parameters to mastering responsible gaming practices, we’ll equip you with everything needed to confidently step into the world of Gratowin Casino.

Is Gratowin Legal and Safe in Italy?

Navigating the world of online casinos in Italy requires understanding the legal landscape. Online gambling is permitted in Italy, but it’s strictly regulated to protect players and ensure fair play. The Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (ADM), formerly AAMS, is the regulatory body responsible for issuing licenses and overseeing gambling operations within the country.

So, is Gratowin legal in Italy? The answer hinges on whether Gratowin possesses a valid license issued by the ADM. To operate legally, online casinos must meet stringent requirements related to financial stability, security protocols, and responsible gaming practices. Without this license, an online casino is operating outside the bounds of Italian law.

Playing at a licensed and regulated online casino is extremely important for your safety. These casinos are subject to regular audits and oversight, ensuring that games are fair, and player funds are protected. Licensed casinos are also required to implement measures to prevent problem gambling and offer resources for players who may need help.

To determine if Gratowin is operating legally and safely in Italy, look for the ADM license information on their website. Typically, this information is displayed in the website’s footer. Validating the license number with the ADM database can give you more peace of mind. Also, check for implemented security measures, such as SSL encryption, which protects your personal and financial data. Look for information about their data protection policies, and make sure they are transparent.

Creating Your Gratowin Account: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to dive into the exciting world of Gratowin? Creating an account is your first step! Follow this straightforward guide to get started in no time. Registration is quick, easy, and will let you access all the games and promotions Gratowin has to offer.

  1. Visit the Gratowin Website: Go to the official Gratowin website. Avoid using search engines to type the address directly into your browser to ensure you’re on the legitimate site.
  2. Click the “Register” Button: Look for the prominent “Register” or “Sign Up” button, usually located at the top-right corner of the homepage.
  3. Fill Out the Registration Form: A registration form will pop up, requiring you to enter personal details such as your name, date of birth, email address, and preferred currency. It is extremely important to fill out the correct data.
  4. Create a Username and Password: Choose a unique username and a strong password to protect your account.
  5. Accept the Terms and Conditions: Read the terms and conditions carefully before ticking the box to confirm your agreement.
  6. Complete the Registration: Click the “Submit” or “Create Account” button to finalize your registration.

By providing accurate information, Gratowin protects you. Account details are encrypted, and KYC adds a layer of protection. You are responsible for your behalf and your money. By safeguarding their platforms, the casino protects its players.

Verifying Your Account

Verifying your Gratowin account is an important and obligatory step to ensure safety and security. This process, known as Know Your Customer (KYC), helps prevent fraud, money laundering, and other illicit activities, while also protecting your account from unauthorized access.

Here’s how to verify your account:

  1. Log in to Your Account: Use your registered username and password to access your Gratowin account.
  2. Navigate to the Verification Section: Look for a “Verification” or “KYC” section.
  3. Submit Required Documents: You’ll typically need to provide a copy of a government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, or national ID card) and proof of address (utility bill or bank statement). Make sure the documents are clear and legible.
  4. Wait for Verification: The verification process usually takes a few business days. You may be contacted if additional information or documentation is needed.

If you face any issues, contact Gratowin’s customer support for assistance. Account verification is your shield and defense against fraudsters.

Exploring the Game Selection at Gratowin

Gratowin Casino throws open the doors to a vibrant playground overflowing with gaming delights! The core of the casino’s offerings lies in its dazzling array of online slots. From classic fruit machines that evoke a sense of nostalgia to modern video slots bristling with innovative bonus features and captivating storylines, there’s a slot to catch every player’s fancy. Think spinning reels, cascading wins, and jackpots lurking around every corner!

But the adventure doesn’t end there! Gratowin also caters to fans of traditional casino action with a selection of beloved table games. Sharpen your skills in games like blackjack, feel the thrill of the spinning roulette wheel, or test your poker face. If instant gratification is what you’re after, the scratch card section offers a quick and easy way to potentially uncover instant wins. And for those seeking an immersive and interactive experience, the live casino brings the authentic atmosphere of a land-based casino directly to players, complete with live dealers and real-time gameplay.

Gratowin partners with a diverse range of software providers to ensure a constant stream of fresh and exciting content. The best of the best game developers collaborate with Gratowin and unique releases are often available.

Understanding RTP and Volatility

Navigating the world of online casinos requires a little inside knowledge, especially when it comes to understanding Return to Player (RTP) and volatility. RTP, or Return to Player, is essentially the percentage of wagered money a game is expected to pay back to players over a long period of time. For example, a game with an RTP of 96% theoretically returns $96 for every $100 wagered. Keep in mind that this is a theoretical average, not a guarantee for each individual session.

Volatility, on the other hand, refers to the level of risk associated with a particular game. High volatility games offer the potential for large payouts, but wins may be less frequent. Low volatility games provide more consistent wins, but the payouts tend to be smaller. Choosing a game that aligns with your risk tolerance and playing style is important. High rollers might gravitate towards high volatility slots, while players seeking a more relaxed experience may prefer low volatility options. Understanding RTP and volatility empowers you to make informed choices and enhances your overall enjoyment.

Depositing and Withdrawing Funds: Your Guide to Payment Methods

Understanding your payment options is key to enjoying your experience at Gratowin Casino. Let’s break down how you can easily deposit funds to start playing and, just as importantly, how to withdraw your winnings when you hit that lucky streak.

Funding Your Account: A Variety of Choices

Gratowin Casino offers a selection of convenient deposit methods. You can typically use major credit and debit cards like Visa and Mastercard for instant deposits. Many players also opt for e-wallets – these provide an extra layer of security and often boast faster processing times. Keep an eye out for options like Neteller or Skrill. While less common, direct bank transfers might also be available, though these usually take longer to process.

Cashing Out Your Winnings: Getting Your Hands on the Prize

Withdrawing your funds is generally straightforward. You’ll usually find the option to withdraw via the same method you used to deposit, where possible. Simply head to the “Withdrawal” section of your account, specify the amount you wish to withdraw, and follow the on-screen prompts. Processing times can vary depending on the method – e-wallets tend to be the quickest, while bank transfers might take a few business days.

Important Things to Keep in Mind: Limits, Fees, and Security

Be aware of minimum and maximum deposit and withdrawal limits. These are in place to promote responsible gaming and comply with regulations. Also, double-check if any fees are associated with specific payment methods. Gratowin prioritizes your security, employing encryption technology to protect your financial transactions. Always ensure you’re playing on a secure network and that you’ve verified your account details to ensure smooth and secure payments.

Understanding Gratowin Bonuses and Promotions

Gratowin Casino rolls out a variety of bonuses and promotions designed to boost your playtime and potentially increase your winnings. Among the most enticing offers, you’ll often find welcome bonuses crafted for newcomers, deposit bonuses that match a percentage of your deposited funds, and the ever-popular free spins, allowing you to test your luck on selected slot games without dipping into your balance.

Each bonus comes with its own set of terms and conditions, which are absolutely crucial to understand before claiming. For instance, a recent welcome bonus might have offered a 100% match on your first deposit up to €200, plus 50 free spins on a featured slot. Or, a regular deposit bonus might give you a 50% boost on deposits made on weekends. Free spins promotions could be tied to specific game releases, offering a chance to familiarize yourself with new titles.

However, the key is always in the fine print. Wagering requirements, validity periods, and game restrictions can significantly impact the true value of a bonus. Take the time to read through these details to ensure you’re getting a deal that genuinely benefits your gaming strategy.

Wagering Requirements Explained

Wagering requirements, often referred to as playthrough requirements, dictate how many times you must wager the bonus amount before you can withdraw any associated winnings. Let’s say you receive a €50 bonus with a 30x wagering requirement. This means you need to wager a total of €1500 (30 x €50) before cashing out.

Smart players know that not all games contribute equally to these requirements. Slots typically contribute 100%, while table games like blackjack or roulette might only contribute 10% or even nothing at all. Therefore, choosing games strategically can expedite the process. From an expert point of wiew: focusing on high RTP (Return to Player) slots can help you maintain a steady bankroll while chipping away at the wagering requirements.

Tips and Strategies for Playing Responsibly at Gratowin

Online casinos like Gratowin offer thrilling entertainment, but it’s crucial to approach them with a responsible mindset. Gambling should be a fun pastime, not a source of stress or financial hardship. So, how can you ensure a positive and controlled experience at Gratowin? It all comes down to implementing some key strategies.

First and foremost, set limits before you even start playing. Gratowin, like many reputable online casinos, allows you to set deposit limits. Take advantage of this feature! Decide on an amount you’re comfortable potentially losing and stick to it. Once you’ve reached that limit, resist the urge to deposit more. Similarly, establish loss limits. Knowing when to walk away is a sign of a responsible player. Time limits are equally important. It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re engrossed in a game. Set a timer on your phone to remind you when your session should end.

Managing your bankroll is another crucial aspect of responsible gambling. Think of your bankroll as your entertainment budget. Don’t treat it as an investment opportunity or a way to solve financial problems. Divide your bankroll into smaller portions and only gamble with a predetermined amount during each session. Avoid chasing losses at all costs. It’s tempting to try and win back what you’ve lost, but this often leads to even bigger losses. If you’re on a losing streak, take a break and come back another day.

Finally, be aware of the signs of problem gambling. If you find yourself gambling more than you intended, borrowing money to gamble, or neglecting your responsibilities, it’s time to seek help. There are many resources available to support individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Don’t hesitate to reach out to organizations like Gamblers Anonymous or responsible gambling helplines. Remember, responsible gambling is all about staying in control and prioritizing your well-being.

Conclusion

Gratowin Casino offers a vibrant and engaging online gambling experience for players in Italy. With its legal standing firmly in place, a diverse selection of games, and a commitment to security, it provides a safe and entertaining platform for those looking to test their luck. Remember, the key to a positive experience with Gratowin Casino, or any online casino, lies in responsible gaming. Set your limits, stick to your budget, and understand the risks involved. Gambling should be a source of enjoyment, not a source of stress or financial hardship. So, dive into the exciting world of Gratowin, explore its many offerings, and most importantly, have fun while playing responsibly. Italy’s online casino scene has a lot to offer, and Gratowin is a great place to start, as long as you play smart and stay within your means.

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