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SC Ventures and Yabx, a Tech Mahindra Group company, invest $10 Million to setup Furaha and expand access to purpose-driven financing in Africa

SC Ventures and Yabx, a Tech Mahindra Group company, invest $10 Million to setup Furaha and expand access to purpose-driven financing in Africa

SC Ventures, Standard Chartered’s innovation, fintech investment and ventures arm, and Yabx Technologies (Netherlands) B.V., a company of Tech Mahindra (NSE: TECHM) group (http://apo-opa.co/42pTSb4), a leading global provider of technology consulting and digital solutions to enterprises across industries, have signed a set of shareholder and technology collaboration agreements to formalise their joint investment in Furaha (www.FurahaFinancial.com). SC Ventures has invested $ 7 million, while Yabx BV has contributed through technology transfer, resulting in a combined investment of $10 million in Furaha. Incubated by SC Ventures, and co-founded by Yustus Aribariho and Ian Fernandes, Furaha is a purpose-driven lending platform aiming to make finance accessible across sub-Saharan Africa, with its first offering being in the education financing space. Furaha is headquartered in UAE’s Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and extending its offerings to local operating markets in Africa, starting with Uganda as its first market.

The partnership will help enhance purpose-driven financing in Africa and supports our work to rewire the DNA in banking

“We are glad to partner with like-minded innovators like Yabx and Tech Mahindra who share our vision of increasing financial inclusion and access. The partnership will help enhance purpose-driven financing in Africa and supports our work to rewire the DNA in banking,” said Alex Manson, CEO, SC Ventures.

“The transformative power of purpose-driven financing lies in its ability to bridge gaps in access and opportunity, particularly in regions like Africa. This strategic partnership aims to make financial solutions more inclusive and impactful. It’s indeed an exciting beginning, and we look forward to collaborating with SC Ventures on many such initiatives that redefine financial empowerment and drive innovation globally,” said Mohit Joshi, CEO and Managing Director, Tech Mahindra.

Africa has the youngest demographics globally with over 600 million children under the age of 18. An education financing platform like Furaha could positively impact families across the continent. Furaha leverages Yabx’s nimble future-ready platform with AI driven alternate lending capabilities, with SC Ventures’ deep understanding of banking and risk management to reduce the cost of delivering purpose-driven lending products and widen financial inclusion across underserved segments in Africa.

“This partnership with SC Ventures is a big moment for Yabx. It marks our first step into the education financing space. The long-term impact of a partnership like this is huge, and we’re excited to work with Furaha as they positively impact education outcomes in Uganda and other African countries  in the coming months,” said Rajat Dayal, CEO, Yabx.

Among the biggest expenses families have to account for is the cost for good quality education for their children. Most parents lack adequate liquidity or access to short-term borrowing instruments — like credit cards or affordable, digital loans — and regularly face challenges paying school fees on time. Delayed or unpaid school fees often results in children unable to continue or complete their education, which impacts their future prospects and importantly the community and country’s development. The challenge is especially acute for parents with monthly incomes under $500.

Furaha offers a much-needed solution for parents and schools by creating a rich ecosystem of data for credit scoring and enabling commercial banks to channel affordable credit towards education financing. Furaha has started offering loan products in Uganda with partners including Opportunity Bank, SchPay and MTN MoMo and plans are underway to expand to other countries in Africa.

ATCON: The Heartbeat of Nigeria’s Telecommunications Revolution

ATCON: The Heartbeat of Nigeria’s Telecommunications Revolution

 

In the vibrant and dynamic landscape of Nigeria’s telecommunications industry, there exists a quiet yet powerful force driving change, connecting dreams, and transforming lives—the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON). For decades, ATCON has been more than just an industry body; it has been the compass guiding Nigeria’s telecommunications sector towards progress, inclusivity, and global relevance.

Ajibola Olude, the tireless and deeply passionate Secretary of ATCON, offers a glimpse into the soul of the organization. “For us, telecommunications isn’t just about infrastructure or numbers; it’s about people. It’s about the farmer in Kano finding new markets online, the student in Enugu attending virtual classes, and the entrepreneur in Lagos pitching to investors halfway across the world. Connectivity is life-changing, and we’ve made it our mission to ensure no one is left behind.”

Championing Connectivity for All

One of ATCON’s most enduring legacies is its relentless fight to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide. While metropolitan cities enjoy seamless internet access, millions of Nigerians in remote areas have long been excluded from the digital economy. ATCON took this as a call to action.

Ajibola speaks passionately about this drive: “When we think about connectivity, we think about equity. A child in a rural village deserves the same opportunities as a child in the city. Every Nigerian deserves to participate in the digital age, no matter where they are.”

Through partnerships with stakeholders, advocacy for better broadband policies, and strategic engagement with regulators like the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), ATCON has brought millions of Nigerians online. Today, the once-distant dream of universal connectivity feels closer than ever.

Driving Innovation for a Brighter Tomorrow

ATCON doesn’t just keep up with the times; it drives the conversation forward. From championing the rollout of 5G to leading discussions on artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT), the association has ensured that Nigeria stays ahead of the curve.

Ajibola recalls the excitement around these innovations: “We see the future and understand what’s possible. Innovation isn’t just about technology; it’s about opportunities. It’s about creating jobs, transforming industries, and giving Nigerians a competitive edge on the global stage.”

Events like the Telecom Executives and Regulators Forum have become incubators for groundbreaking ideas. Here, industry leaders and regulators gather not just to discuss challenges but to build solutions that redefine the sector. “These forums are where the magic happens,” Ajibola says with a smile. “They’re where we chart the path forward.”

A Voice for the Industry, A Partner for Progress

ATCON’s advocacy has been one of its most impactful contributions. Acting as the voice of the industry, the association has successfully mediated between telecom operators, regulators, and the government, ensuring policies are fair, forward-thinking, and growth-oriented.

Ajibola describes this role with pride: “We’re not just a mouthpiece; we’re a partner. When the industry struggles with issues like multiple taxation or vandalism of infrastructure, we step in with solutions. When the government needs input on policy, we provide insights that benefit everyone—operators, consumers, and the economy.”

It’s this ability to bring diverse stakeholders together that has earned ATCON the trust and respect of the entire telecommunications ecosystem.

Beyond Infrastructure: Changing Lives, One Connection at a Time

What truly sets ATCON apart is its people-first philosophy. Ajibola speaks with deep emotion when describing the human impact of their work. “It’s easy to talk about policies and technologies, but for us, it’s about stories. It’s about the single mother who can now run a business online, the graduate who landed a remote job, or the rural health worker accessing critical medical information. These are the lives we touch every day.”

ATCON’s work is not just about connecting people to the internet; it’s about connecting them to opportunities, knowledge, and a better future.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Hope

Despite the successes, Ajibola acknowledges that the journey is far from over. “We still face hurdles—like inconsistent policies across states, infrastructure vandalism, and the high cost of Right of Way. But every challenge is an opportunity for us to innovate and push harder. We are determined to build a sector that serves every Nigerian.”

Looking to the future, Ajibola calls on all stakeholders to join the mission. “This isn’t just ATCON’s responsibility; it’s a shared goal. Policymakers, operators, investors, and even consumers all have roles to play. Together, we can create a telecommunications industry that is truly world-class.”

A Legacy of Transformation

At its core, ATCON is about more than just telecommunications; it’s about transformation. The association has become a symbol of resilience, innovation, and collaboration—a beacon of hope in a rapidly changing world.

For Ajibola and his team, the work is personal. “Every time we see progress—every new connection, every breakthrough—we know it’s worth it. This isn’t just about building an industry; it’s about building a nation.”

As Nigeria stands on the cusp of a fully digital future, ATCON remains its steadfast guide, ensuring that progress is not just measured in megabytes but in meaningful impact. It’s a story of connection, empowerment, and the unyielding belief that technology can change lives—and ATCON is at the heart of it all.

NBA Women Forum Advocates for Adaptability in Legal Practice Amid AfCFTA Opportunities

NBA Women Forum Advocates for Adaptability in Legal Practice Amid AfCFTA Opportunities

 

Chinyere Okorocha, the Immediate Past Chair of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Women Forum, has called on legal practitioners to remain agile and forward-thinking as the legal profession continues to evolve. Speaking at the recently concluded NBA Lagos Branch meeting, she stressed that success in an ever-changing legal landscape hinges on the ability to explore emerging areas of law and adapt to global trends.

The highlight of the meeting was a thought-provoking presentation by Mr. Olusupo Shasore SAN, FCIArb, titled “Future-Proofing Your Practice: Understanding the Rudiments of International Trade Law and the AfCFTA.” The distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria unpacked the fundamentals of international trade law, providing attendees with a clear roadmap to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He outlined practical strategies for growing and diversifying legal practices to meet the demands of an interconnected and fast-changing global economy.

Chinyere Okorocha reflected on the presentation, stating, “For me, future-proofing a legal career is about more than just understanding current frameworks. It’s about identifying and seizing opportunities to expand expertise into global markets while embracing continuous education and strategic networking. These elements are crucial for remaining relevant, innovative, and competitive in today’s dynamic world.”

The event, graciously hosted by ALP NG & Co, underscored the importance of industry gatherings in equipping legal practitioners with fresh perspectives and actionable insights. Beyond intellectual enrichment, such events foster invaluable networking opportunities, enabling lawyers to build partnerships and collaborations that strengthen their professional impact.

The discussion illuminated the transformative potential of the AfCFTA, which is set to redefine opportunities in international trade law. With its aim to create a single African market for goods and services, the agreement opens doors for legal practitioners to provide advisory services on compliance, cross-border transactions, dispute resolution, and regulatory matters.

Legal experts at the event emphasized the need for practitioners to upskill and position themselves strategically to capitalize on this shift. Key recommendations included:

  1. Continuous Learning: Engaging in specialized training on international trade law, understanding AfCFTA frameworks, and mastering key trade protocols.
  2. Strategic Networking: Building connections with industry stakeholders, policymakers, and businesses seeking legal guidance in navigating AfCFTA regulations.
  3. Collaboration Across Borders: Partnering with legal firms and experts in other African countries to provide seamless advisory services for cross-border transactions.
  4. Leveraging Technology: Adopting legal tech solutions to streamline services, ensuring efficiency in cross-border legal practices.

The AfCFTA represents a watershed moment for the legal profession, creating opportunities for practitioners to expand their influence on a continental scale. However, questions remain about how prepared the legal community is to take advantage of these opportunities.

As the conversation continues, practitioners are invited to reflect on the following: How can the AfCFTA reshape the future of legal practice in Africa? What specific steps should lawyers take to position themselves as leaders in this emerging space?

The NBA Women Forum’s focus on innovation and adaptability serves as a clarion call for legal professionals to embrace the future with boldness and determination. With proactive efforts, the legal profession can thrive in an increasingly interconnected and competitive global marketplace.

NDDC’s Executive Director of Projects Office Hosts Workshop to Enhance Service Delivery

NDDC’s Executive Director of Projects Office Hosts Workshop to Enhance Service Delivery

 

In a strategic move to boost efficiency and service delivery, the office of the Executive Director of Projects at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) recently organized a comprehensive workshop aimed at enhancing workforce productivity, fostering teamwork, and improving conflict management strategies. The workshop, held in Port Harcourt, brought together key stakeholders and staff to deliberate on critical issues affecting the Commission’s operations and its service to the people of the Niger Delta region.

A major highlight of the event was a review of the 2024 work year, which served as an opportunity for participants to reflect on past challenges and achievements. The review session encouraged a culture of continuous improvement by promoting the concepts of learning, unlearning, and re-strategizing to enhance public service effectiveness in the years ahead.

Speaking during the workshop, the Executive Director of Projects, Sir Victor Antai, emphasized the importance of retrospection and collaboration in driving the Commission’s goals forward. In his address to staff, he stated:

“This retrospective session provides a unique opportunity for all of us to come together, share our experiences, and gain valuable insights from one another. We aim to strengthen our understanding of reporting lines and organizational protocols, improve conflict resolution skills, and enhance collaboration and leadership within the workplace.”

Sir Antai underscored the Commission’s commitment to fostering a more cohesive and results-driven workforce, highlighting the necessity of aligning individual and departmental goals with the overarching mission of the NDDC. He noted that improved communication channels, adherence to structured reporting lines, and effective leadership were critical to achieving the desired level of service delivery.

The workshop sessions covered various topics, including team building, conflict resolution strategies, leadership development, and interdepartmental collaboration. Participants engaged in practical exercises and discussions designed to equip them with the tools necessary to address workplace challenges effectively and contribute meaningfully to the Commission’s objectives.

As part of the initiative, attendees were encouraged to adopt a proactive approach to problem-solving, embrace innovative solutions, and commit to fostering a culture of accountability and transparency.

The NDDC leadership believes that workshops such as this will play a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiency, improving employee morale, and ultimately delivering better developmental outcomes for the Niger Delta region.

KPMG Advisory Report to Drive NDDC’s Transformation Agenda

KPMG Advisory Report to Drive NDDC’s Transformation Agenda

 

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is set to undergo a major transformation with the adoption of the KPMG Governance Advisory Report, which aims to shift the Commission from a transaction-based approach to a transformation-driven policy.

During a high-level meeting at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, alongside the Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Alabo Hon. Boma Iyaye, and the Executive Director of Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, engaged with a delegation from KPMG to discuss the report’s significance and implementation strategy.

Dr. Ogbuku emphasized the report’s critical role in shaping the Commission’s operations, stating that once approved by the board, it would serve as a policy framework for all directorates and departments. “This document comes at the right time, as the NDDC now operates with a functional budget. We will ensure strict adherence to its provisions during implementation,” he assured.

The KPMG Governance Advisory Report is expected to provide strategic guidance on global best practices, strengthen the Commission’s corporate governance culture, and enhance its internal processes. According to Dr. Ogbuku, the report will be instrumental in ensuring accountability and transparency, key elements for the Commission’s long-term success.

The NDDC leadership has expressed confidence that the adoption of the report will drive improved service delivery and support the Commission’s broader mandate of fostering sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.

Stakeholder Engagement on National Digital Economy Bill: Kaduna Session Recap

Stakeholder Engagement on National Digital Economy Bill: Kaduna Session Recap

 

Kaduna State played host to a crucial stakeholder engagement session on the National Digital Economy & e-Governance Bill (NDEB) last November, as efforts to shape Nigeria’s digital future continue.

The engagement, which forms part of a nationwide consultation process, has so far been conducted in 27 states across the country. The initiative aims to gather valuable input from key stakeholders to ensure the development of a comprehensive legislative framework that will drive the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.

According to officials, the engagement sessions are set to resume later in January, providing further opportunities for industry experts, policymakers, and other stakeholders to contribute to the bill’s finalization.

The NDEB is expected to provide a solid legal foundation for the nation’s digital transformation, addressing critical areas such as governance, data protection, and innovation-driven policies.

WACT CONGRESS to Launch Nigeria Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit in Abuja

WACT CONGRESS to Launch Nigeria Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit in Abuja

 

The World Arts, Culture and Tourism Congress (WACT CONGRESS) has announced the Nigeria Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit, set to take place in Abuja from April 8th to 12th, 2025. This highly anticipated event serves as a prelude to the ambitious Culture Olympics project, a joint initiative by the Osun State Tourism Board and Artkingdom International Foundation.

Since its unveiling on May 2nd, 2024, the WACT CONGRESS has received strong support from government agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy. The international significance of the event was further emphasized by the presence of notable dignitaries such as Ambassador Bolaji Akinremi, Director of Economy, Trade and Investment at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ambassador Olawale Awe, Director of ECOWAS Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Hon. Taiwo Adeleke, Chairman of the Osun State Tourism Board; and Ajikam Associates, who were all present at the launch ceremony.

Prince Dr. Yomi Otukoya, Director General of WACT CONGRESS, highlighted the event’s importance in shaping the future of Nigeria’s cultural tourism sector. “This summit is not just an event; it’s a legacy-building initiative that will redefine the way Nigerian and African culture is experienced globally,” he said.

The summit will focus on attracting investment in Nigeria’s tourism infrastructure through a series of expert presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. Delegates from over 50 countries and all 36 states of Nigeria are expected to participate. Dr. Otukoya expressed enthusiasm for the global collaboration, stating that the event will provide a unique platform for investors, cultural enthusiasts, and tourism stakeholders to engage in transformative discussions.

As part of the preparations, Armstrong Ilile, the PR Coordinator of WACT CONGRESS, revealed that a special delegate team will embark on a global Stakeholder Awareness Tour between February and March 2025. The tour will cover key locations in the USA, Canada, Australia, the UK, Italy, Brazil, and South Africa to mobilize participation and explore partnership opportunities.

The summit is expected to attract prominent figures, with His Excellency Nyesome Wike serving as the Chief Host, while the Honorable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, is set to deliver the keynote address.

In a bid to showcase Nigeria’s artistic excellence on a global stage, the summit will conclude with a stage drama concert featuring the legendary work of renowned playwright and lawyer, Dr. Fred Agbeiyegbe. The performance, titled “Egbe ni fun iku – Woe unto death,” promises to highlight Nigeria’s rich theatrical heritage.

The Nigeria Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit is expected to be a milestone event, driving significant investment and positioning Nigeria as a leading cultural tourism destination.

For more information, visit the official website of WACT CONGRESS and follow updates via the hashtags: #Wactcongress2025, #Tourisminfrastructure, #InvestmentSummit, #NigeriaTourism, #CulturalTourism, #GlobalCulturalExchange, #AfricanArts, #TourismDevelopment, #CulturalInvestment, #OsunStateTourism, #ArtKingdomInternational, #CulturalOlympics, #TourismInfrastructureInvestment.

About ArtKingdom International Foundation

ArtKingdom International Foundation is at the forefront of promoting African arts, culture, and tourism on a global scale. Through strategic initiatives and partnerships, the foundation aims to celebrate Africa’s rich cultural heritage while fostering economic growth in the creative sector.

Federal Government Partners with WIOCC to Boost Broadband Connectivity in Nigeria

Federal Government Partners with WIOCC to Boost Broadband Connectivity in Nigeria

In a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC). This landmark collaboration aims to deliver transformative initiatives that will enhance broadband connectivity across Nigeria, particularly through last-mile connectivity to homes and businesses.

Speaking on the MoU, Dr. Tijani emphasized the importance of the partnership in fostering economic prosperity by enabling seamless and meaningful connections for Nigerians.

“This collaboration is about prosperity because by meaningfully connecting our people, we give them a platform to increase productivity. Earlier today, we signed an MoU with WIOCC on several initiatives to support the growth of our telecommunications sector. A highlight of this is a commitment from WIOCC to make significant investments in delivering last-mile connectivity to Nigerian homes and businesses,” he said.

The minister further underlined the government’s commitment to working with private sector players and other stakeholders to enhance broadband quality.

“As a government, we are open to collaborating with private sector players and other relevant stakeholders in our efforts to enhance the quality of broadband connectivity towards achieving sustainable economic growth and development.”No alternative text description for this image

Focus on Last-Mile Connectivity

WIOCC’s commitment to investing in last-mile connectivity marks a critical step in bridging Nigeria’s digital divide. Last-mile connectivity refers to the final segment of telecommunications networks that delivers internet services directly to end users, including households and businesses. This initiative is expected to accelerate digital transformation, promote productivity, and expand opportunities for innovation across the country.

Driving Sustainable Economic Growth

The partnership aligns with the federal government’s broader agenda of leveraging digital technology to drive sustainable economic growth and development. Enhanced broadband connectivity has been identified as a key enabler of economic progress, with the potential to create jobs, empower businesses, and improve access to education and healthcare services.

The collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy and WIOCC reinforces Nigeria’s position as a destination for technology investments and innovation. With private-sector partnerships like this, the country is poised to achieve its digital economy goals, ensuring that every Nigerian has access to reliable and affordable internet services.

About WIOCC:
WIOCC is a leading provider of carrier-grade connectivity solutions across Africa, leveraging its extensive infrastructure to deliver reliable and high-speed internet services.

NNPC Ltd. Expresses Profound Condolences Over Tanker Explosion Tragedy in Niger State

NNPC Ltd. Expresses Profound Condolences Over Tanker Explosion Tragedy in Niger State

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has expressed deep sympathy for the victims of the tragic petrol tanker explosion that occurred on Saturday at the Dikko-Maje Junction along the Abuja-Kaduna Road in Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State. The devastating incident claimed multiple lives and left many others injured as individuals attempted to scoop fuel from the fallen tanker.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, NNPC Ltd.’s Executive Vice President, Downstream, Mr. Isiyaku Abdullahi, led a condolence delegation to the General Hospital in Sabon Wuse, Niger State. During the visit, he expressed heartfelt sorrow over the loss of lives and prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed souls. He also extended wishes for a swift and complete recovery to those injured in the explosion.

Speaking during the visit, Mr. Abdullahi emphasized the need for public caution and warned against approaching or tampering with fallen petrol tankers. “This is a tragic reminder of the dangers associated with fuel-related accidents. We urge the public to avoid such practices to prevent unnecessary loss of life,” he said.

The explosion at Dikko-Maje Junction highlights the urgent need for greater awareness about the risks of engaging in fuel scooping activities. NNPC Ltd. reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians and pledged to continue its advocacy for enhanced public education on the hazards associated with fuel handling.

Local authorities have since launched investigations into the incident, while emergency services and healthcare workers continue to provide critical support to affected individuals and their families.

The tanker explosion underscores the importance of collective responsibility in promoting safety and preventing similar occurrences in the future. NNPC Ltd. reiterated its dedication to partnering with stakeholders to enhance safety measures across the petroleum value chain.

This tragedy serves as a somber call for proactive measures to ensure that such preventable incidents become a thing of the past.

NCC and FCCPC Sign MoU to Strengthen Transparency and Consumer Protection in Telecommunications Sector

NCC and FCCPC Sign MoU to Strengthen Transparency and Consumer Protection in Telecommunications Sector

In a landmark development for Nigeria’s telecommunications industry, Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), joined Mr. Tunji Bello, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering transparency, enhancing competition, and prioritizing consumer protection within the sector.

The historic signing ceremony, held in Abuja, represents a significant collaboration between the two regulatory bodies. It underscores their shared commitment to creating a fair and consumer-centric telecommunications environment that aligns with global best practices.

Dr. Maida, speaking at the event, emphasized the importance of the MoU as a strategic step in addressing emerging challenges in the telecommunications sector. He noted that the partnership would enable both agencies to pool their expertise and resources to ensure that telecommunications operators adhere to regulations promoting fairness, transparency, and quality service delivery to consumers.

“This MoU signifies a new era of collaboration between the NCC and FCCPC,” Dr. Maida stated. “It is designed to strengthen regulatory oversight, enhance market competition, and place consumers at the heart of the industry’s development. Our goal is to ensure that Nigeria’s telecommunications sector remains robust, dynamic, and aligned with the needs of its users.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Mr. Bello highlighted the FCCPC’s unwavering commitment to protecting consumer rights and ensuring fair competition across all sectors, including telecommunications. He described the partnership with the NCC as a milestone in addressing the concerns of consumers while fostering a competitive landscape that benefits both service providers and end users.

“This collaboration is vital for creating a telecommunications ecosystem where transparency and accountability are paramount,” Mr. Bello remarked. “With this MoU, we are not only strengthening the regulatory framework but also ensuring that consumer interests remain the focal point of industry growth and development.”

Key areas covered under the MoU include joint investigations of consumer complaints, collaborative enforcement of regulations, and the promotion of ethical business practices within the telecommunications industry. The agreement also sets the stage for coordinated efforts in policy-making and capacity-building initiatives aimed at addressing current and future challenges in the sector.

The signing of the MoU was witnessed by key stakeholders from both agencies, as well as representatives from the telecommunications industry, consumer advocacy groups, and the media. Stakeholders praised the initiative, describing it as a bold and proactive approach to ensuring that Nigeria’s telecommunications landscape evolves in a manner that benefits consumers and promotes fair competition.

The partnership between the NCC and FCCPC is expected to drive transformative changes in the industry, positioning it as a model for regulatory collaboration in Nigeria and beyond.