The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to consumer empowerment and transparency in data usage at the 93rd Telecoms Consumer Parliament. The theme, “Optimizing Data Experience: Empowering Consumers through Awareness and Transparency in a Consumer-Centric Telecom Industry,” underscored the agency’s mission to enhance the digital lives of Nigerians. Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, outlined the Commission’s strategic focus on addressing consumer concerns about data usage and billing. “Our role at the NCC goes beyond ensuring access; we are dedicated to delivering a telecom experience that empowers and informs…
Author: Elvis Eromosele
The Federal High Court has granted bail of N10 million each to 72 protesters, including minors arraigned for participating in the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests. Justice Obiora Egwuatu granted the bail application filed by their counsel, Marshal Abubakar. As part of the bail conditions, the defendants are required to provide two sureties each. One of the sureties must be a civil servant of grade level 15 or higher, with a verifiable address within the court’s jurisdiction, while the other must be a parent of the protester concerned. On Friday, Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector-General of Police, arraiged 76 defendants on a…
Nigeria’s mobile subscriber base has taken a significant hit, shrinking by over 30 per cent after the September 2024 SIM-NIN linkage deadline. Telecommunication companies in Nigeria have reported a loss of approximately 66 million subscribers following the enforcement of the SIM-NIN linkage policy. This drastic reduction in active lines has brought the total number of mobile subscribers down to 153.32 million. The stringent SIM-NIN linkage policy, implemented to enhance security and identify criminals, has led to the deactivation of numerous SIM cards that failed to meet the verification requirements. As a result, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has imposed a…
The global connectivity gap persists as a staggering 43 per cent of the world’s population, or approximately 3.45 billion people, remain unconnected to the digital world, according to a new report by the GSMA. This, according to the report is hindering economic growth and social progress. To bridge this digital divide and achieve universal mobile internet access, the report estimates that a massive investment of $418 billion is needed. Key barriers to connectivity include affordability, digital skills, and network coverage. Thus, the GSMA urges governments, mobile network operators, and international organizations to collaborate and take decisive action to address these…
The Africa Tech Alliance Forum gears up for its fourth edition, AfriTECH 4.0, scheduled for Thursday, November 7th, 2024, in Lagos, Nigeria. This premier technology and innovation conference promises to be a landmark event, uniting key stakeholders under the theme “Leapfrogging Digital Transformation for the Future of Africa’s Economy.” Leading the charge are prestigious new partners and sponsors. Joining the ranks are the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the digital payment platform PalmPay. Regulatory excellence meets innovation The NCC’s involvement highlights its commitment to fostering a robust telecommunications industry. They champion consumer awareness,…
By Elvis Eromosele In today’s world, environmental sustainability is more than a trending topic—it’s a transformative business strategy for companies serious about longevity, profitability, and impact. This shift is evident in the private sector’s increased focus on sustainable practices. It is no surprise that Nestlé Nigeria, a household name synonymous with quality and taste, is quietly revolutionizing its approach to business in line with this trend. Beyond its iconic products, the company is emerging as a frontrunner in environmental sustainability. This strategic shift is a fundamental transformation that underscores the company’s commitment to a greener future. By embedding sustainability into…
The Lagos Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) is thrilled to announce major updates for the 2024 edition of the Lagos Public Relations Industry Gala and Awards (LAPRIGA), themed The Shining Stars. Recognized as one of the most coveted PR awards in the continent of Africa, LAPRIGA has set a new benchmark for excellence and creativity in public relations. This year, the LAPRIGA Selection Committee, chaired by Mr. Muyiwa Akintunde, has introduced enhanced selection standards, emphasizing a clear alignment with public relations best practices. In a new approach, Chapter members will not vote for shortlisted nominees; instead,…
BetKing, a leading online gaming and sports betting platform, has announced the launch of Danfo Lagos, a groundbreaking new casino game that celebrates the vibrant culture of Lagos, Nigeria. Danfo Lagos, named after the iconic yellow buses, that are a staple of Lagos transportation, offers players a unique and immersive gaming experience. By combining the thrill of casino games with the energetic spirit of Lagos, BetKing aims to create a product that resonates deeply with Nigerian players. According to Nengi Akinola, Head of Marketing at BetKing, “We are thrilled to introduce Danfo Lagos to our players. This game is our…
Banks’ credit to the government surged to a record N42 trillion in September 2024, amid a growing money supply (M3). According to data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), credit to the government rose by 89.8 per cent year-on-year to reach N42.01 trillion in September 2024, up from N22.13 trillion in September 2023. This significant increase highlights the growing reliance on bank financing by the government. On a monthly basis, commercial banks’ credit to the government also recorded a sharp rise. In August 2024, this figure stood at N31.15 trillion but jumped 34.86 per cent by September. This monthly…
MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, leading communications services provider, has declared a profit after tax of N4.13 billion in the third quarter of 2024. This follows three successive quarters of loss. However, the telco declared a N514.93 billion loss for the nine months ended September 2024 due to successive quarters of loss, which was revealed in its financial statement. Its nine-month loss is a 0.80 per cent decline from the N519.1 billion it declared for the six months ended June 2024, indicating a slowdown. MTN’s financial performance has been impacted by record-high inflation and the naira’s devaluation, worsening businesses’ operational expenses.…