Calls for Love and Peaceful Coexistence

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle, MON, has extended his warmest Christmas greetings to the Nigerian military and all citizens, emphasizing the need for love and unity during the festive season.

In his goodwill message, the Minister lauded the bravery and dedication of the Nigerian Armed Forces, commending their relentless efforts in protecting the nation’s sovereignty. He also called on citizens—Christians and non-Christians alike—to embrace the spirit of the season by fostering peace, love, and harmonious coexistence.

“This season serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring principles of peace, unity, love, and sacrifice that bind us as a nation,” Dr. Matawalle remarked.

The Minister urged Nigerians to honor President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and recognize the sacrifices of the military personnel who continue to safeguard the nation’s safety and security.

Reflecting on the essence of the yuletide season, Dr. Matawalle noted that it offers a unique opportunity to strengthen the bonds of unity and inspire acts of compassion and camaraderie among citizens. He appealed for collective efforts in building a secure and prosperous Nigeria, stressing that these values must resonate beyond the festive period.

Concluding his message, the Minister wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, encouraging everyone to carry the spirit of the season into the year ahead.

 

 

Hope Nwosu, a Nigerian author and writer based in Finland, recently shared her insights on the integration of immigrant families into European society at the final seminar of the Smile Project. As an advocate for active citizenship, Nwosu emphasized the importance of immigrants participating in and contributing to their new communities. She explained that true integration goes beyond mere assimilation—it requires immigrants to feel that they belong and are actively involved in the society that receives them.

At the seminar, which showcased the outcomes and successes of the Smile Project, Nwosu reflected on the project’s objectives, which were focused on strengthening migrant family integration. The project sought to improve service development and foster new ways of dialogue between communities, schools, and services in the Vantaa neighborhoods of Finland. One of the core messages Nwosu took from the seminar was that family plays an essential role in the integration process. She stressed that any integration services should be designed with the unique needs of families in mind, as they are often the bedrock of a successful transition into a new life.

Nwosu also highlighted how the living conditions of immigrants can either support or hinder their integration. She noted that living in segregated areas, where immigrant communities are isolated from the broader society, often leads to negative outcomes, making it harder for families to establish connections and thrive. She further emphasized that integration is a two-way street, where both immigrants and the receiving society must actively engage in the process. It’s not just about immigrants adapting; it’s equally important for the host society to create an environment that is welcoming and inclusive.

Another key point Nwosu raised was the importance of employment in the integration process. Many immigrants are eager to contribute to society and have skills to offer, yet they often face barriers to accessing meaningful work. Nwosu emphasized that providing opportunities for employment not only allows immigrants to showcase their talents but also promotes their overall wellbeing and that of their families. Work, she pointed out, is a critical element in building a sense of purpose, stability, and connection to the society they are now a part of.

Beyond employment and language skills, Nwosu stressed that integration is a holistic process that requires immigrants to feel comfortable navigating their new environment. Integration, she argued, isn’t just about learning the language or finding a job—it’s about feeling that you belong and are part of the community. It’s about knowing where to go, how to access services, and building relationships that contribute to a deeper sense of belonging.

Reflecting on the successes of the Smile Project, Nwosu celebrated the positive outcomes, such as the successful employment of immigrants and the strengthened cooperation with organizations that support people from immigrant backgrounds. She was particularly heartened by the fact that the work started by the project would continue, ensuring that the momentum for meaningful integration remains.

In closing, Nwosu expressed her appreciation for the dedicated team behind the Smile Project, including Suvi Törrönen, Jenni Tahvanainen, Petra Pulli, and Mustafe Hirsi. Their hard work and commitment to improving the lives of immigrant families were clearly evident in the project’s achievements, and Nwosu commended them for their exceptional contributions to fostering a more inclusive society.

#Migration #Integration #Employment #Belonging #StrengthInDiversity #Smile #Multiculturalism

 

 

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, officially inaugurated the state-of-the-art Oranto International Airport Hotel on December 22, 2024. The hotel, owned by prominent business mogul Prince Arthur Eze, marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to enhance its tourism and aviation infrastructure.

Governor Mbah highlighted the hotel’s importance in the broader strategy to operationalize the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, set to launch Enugu Air in the coming days, and attract over 3 million visitors annually. “Enugu is on track to becoming a major hub, and the introduction of an international airport hotel underscores our growing ambitions,” Mbah remarked during the inauguration ceremony.

The governor expressed deep appreciation to Prince Arthur Eze for his unwavering commitment to the project, despite facing numerous challenges. “His resilience and determination have been key in bringing this vision to life and ensuring the hotel’s timely completion, perfectly in line with our transformative agenda for the state.”

Governor Mbah also extended a message to investors, emphasizing that Enugu State remains a prime destination for business opportunities, further solidified by this new landmark development.

 

 

The former Governor of Zamfara State and current Minister of State for Defense, Hon. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has assured Nigerians that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies are not against northern interests. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to fostering unity across the country and urged northerners to disregard divisive rhetoric from individuals opposing national cohesion.

Matawalle made these remarks during an address to his supporters in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital, during his six-day visit to the state. He announced plans to visit Zamfara every three months to stay engaged with the people and their concerns.

Speaking on the current economic challenges, the minister reassured Nigerians that relief is on the horizon, as the federal government is making concerted efforts to reposition the country’s economy. “The federal government’s economic policies will yield positive results. There is light at the end of the tunnel,” he stated confidently.

He acknowledged the enormity of the challenges inherited by the Tinubu administration but highlighted ongoing welfare initiatives. He disclosed that the federal government had already sent several trailers of rice to Gusau for distribution to citizens as part of measures to alleviate hardship.

Matawalle called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in their prayers for divine intervention to help overcome the country’s challenges. “The federal government is not happy with the current economic hardships facing Nigerians. We are working tirelessly to address the situation,” he added.

The minister’s remarks serve to bolster public confidence in the administration’s efforts to address economic difficulties while emphasizing unity and collaboration as essential pillars for Nigeria’s progress.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has called for ethical and responsible governance of digital technology in Africa during the 19th Internet Governance Forum (IGF). The high-profile event, themed “Building Our Multi-stakeholder Digital Future,” gathered global leaders to address critical issues surrounding the digital ecosystem.

  • Speaking at the forum, Inuwa emphasized the need for stricter oversight in the wake of rising challenges posed by unregulated social media platforms. Citing the Cambridge Analytica scandal as a cautionary tale, he underscored the dangers of unchecked digital influence and its potential to harm societal structures.

Highlighting Nigeria’s proactive stance, the NITDA boss outlined the nation’s Code of Practice (COP) for social media platforms. This framework ensures compliance with Nigerian laws and cultural values, facilitating a safer digital space. Inuwa revealed that the COP had achieved significant milestones in 2024, including the removal of over 60 million harmful posts and the reinstatement of wrongly flagged content, demonstrating the framework’s efficiency in content moderation.

The COP’s impact extends beyond governance. Inuwa disclosed that the digital economy has seen remarkable growth, with tech companies contributing over 2.5 trillion naira in Value Added Tax (VAT) within the past six months, reinforcing the economic potential of a well-regulated digital environment.

Inuwa urged African nations to collaborate in shaping global technology governance. He highlighted the need for building digital sovereignty, strengthening regional capacities, and ensuring the continent’s active participation in the evolving digital future.

As discussions continue at IGF 2024, Inuwa’s address serves as a clarion call for Africa to take a unified and strategic approach to ethical digital governance.

 

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has solidified its position as a key pillar of growth, innovation, and stability in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry. Through consistent publication of factual reports and detailed statistics, the NCC has fostered trust, enabled informed decision-making, and empowered stakeholders, including Nigerians, investors, and operators. Its role as an exceptional regulator continues to serve as a benchmark for transparency and efficiency, driving the telecom industry to unparalleled heights.

Empowering Nigerians with Accurate and Actionable Data

The NCC has consistently delivered on its mandate to provide Nigerians with critical insights into the telecommunications sector. Through its quarterly and annual reports, the Commission ensures that Nigerians, whether consumers or businesses, are equipped with reliable data to understand the state of the sector.

The most recent NCC reports highlight remarkable statistics, demonstrating the sector’s growth trajectory:

  • Active Subscribers: Over 157.6 million active telephony subscriptions reflect the significant connectivity within Nigeria’s population.
  • Teledensity: With a teledensity of 72.7%, calculated on a population estimate of 216 million, the sector shows robust penetration across urban and rural areas.
  • Internet Penetration: Nigeria has one of the largest internet user bases in Africa, with over 123 million active internet subscriptions, enabling the digital economy to flourish.

These statistics underline the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that the telecoms sector is not only vibrant but also serves as a catalyst for economic and social development.

Securing Consumer Confidence Through Regulatory Excellence

The NCC’s proactive measures to delink unverified SIM cards from the National Identification Number (NIN) database stand as a testament to its commitment to consumer safety and data security. This bold move ensures a secure telecommunications ecosystem, mitigating risks associated with identity fraud, cyber threats, and financial crimes.

By upholding stringent compliance standards, the NCC has bolstered consumer trust, paving the way for broader adoption of telecommunications services and products.

A Magnet for Investment and Economic Growth

Nigeria’s telecommunications market continues to attract significant investment, both locally and internationally, thanks to the NCC’s transparency and investor-friendly policies. The recent market share statistics provide a clear picture of the industry landscape:

  • MTN Nigeria: Commands a dominant 51.09% market share with 80.37 million subscribers.
  • Airtel Nigeria: Holds 34.61% market share, serving 54.45 million subscribers.
  • Globacom: Controls 12.15% market share, catering to 19.11 million subscribers.
  • 9mobile: Serves 3.39 million subscribers, representing 2.15% of the market.

This level of market transparency instills confidence in investors, enabling them to make informed decisions while fueling innovation and competition within the sector.

Championing Technological Advancements

The NCC’s regulatory efforts have been instrumental in the rapid adoption of advanced technologies across the telecom landscape:

  • 2G, 3G, and 4G Expansion: Nigeria boasts one of the most extensive mobile broadband networks in Africa, catering to diverse consumer needs and supporting the digital economy.
  • 5G Rollout: The Commission’s licensing of 5G technology promises to revolutionize connectivity, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and enhanced network reliability.

These advancements position Nigeria as a leader in telecommunications innovation on the continent, attracting global attention and investment.

Supporting the Economy Through Job Creation and SME Growth

The telecommunications sector, driven by the NCC’s visionary leadership, has emerged as a critical contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The sector accounted for 15.5% of Nigeria’s GDP in Q2 2024, showcasing its impact on economic growth and job creation.

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of the Nigerian economy, have particularly benefited from improved telecommunications infrastructure. Enhanced internet penetration and mobile technology have enabled SMEs to scale operations, access new markets, and drive e-commerce adoption.

NCC’s Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

The NCC’s approach to regulation is anchored in transparency and accountability. By regularly publishing comprehensive reports on network performance, subscriber data, and industry trends, the Commission ensures that stakeholders are informed and empowered.

These reports not only provide clarity to Nigerians but also serve as valuable resources for government agencies, research institutions, and international organizations seeking to understand the dynamics of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

Lauding NCC’s Role as a Global Standard Regulator

The NCC has earned accolades for its leadership and adherence to global best practices in regulation. Its efforts to:

  • Promote competition among operators, ensuring affordable and high-quality services.
  • Expand rural connectivity through initiatives like the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF).
  • Facilitate digital inclusion by advocating for broadband penetration targets.

These achievements have positioned the NCC as a model regulator in Africa, fostering a telecom industry that meets the needs of over 200 million Nigerians while setting the stage for sustainable development.

A Bright Future for Nigeria’s Telecom Sector

Looking ahead, the NCC’s strategic focus includes:

  • Enhancing broadband penetration to meet the National Broadband Plan 2020-2025 targets.
  • Driving 5G deployment to unlock new opportunities in IoT, AI, and smart cities.
  • Strengthening cybersecurity frameworks to protect consumers and businesses.

The NCC’s unwavering dedication ensures that Nigeria’s telecom sector will continue to thrive as a key driver of the nation’s economic and technological advancement.

Investors, consumers, and industry players are encouraged to engage with the NCC’s resources and initiatives as Nigeria solidifies its position as a telecommunications powerhouse in Africa.

 

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reiterated its commitment to fostering a fair, secure, and competitive telecommunications ecosystem within Nigeria and the broader ECOWAS region. This commitment was underscored during the Virtual Stakeholders’ Forum on the Draft A2P Licensing Framework, where Mrs. Chizua Whyte, Acting Head of Legal & Regulatory Services at the NCC, delivered the welcome address on behalf of the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Dr. Aminu Maida.

The forum brought together stakeholders from across the telecommunications value chain to deliberate on the proposed framework for regulating Application-to-Person (A2P) messaging services. A2P messaging is a cornerstone of modern communication, enabling businesses, governments, and organizations to send SMS notifications directly to consumers. It is widely used for transactional alerts, promotional campaigns, and essential public service updates.

A2P Messaging: The Backbone of Digital Transformation

In her address, Mrs. Whyte highlighted the critical role A2P messaging plays in the digital landscape. She described it as “a powerful tool for businesses, governments, and service providers to enhance communication efficiency, support socio-economic development, and deliver value to consumers.” However, the sector faces significant challenges, including fraud, spam, data privacy breaches, and revenue leakage, which threaten its sustainability.

A Regulatory Milestone for Nigeria and ECOWAS

The NCC’s Draft A2P Licensing Framework is a pivotal initiative aimed at addressing these challenges. The framework seeks to establish a centralized system for routing international A2P messages, ensuring compliance with stringent security protocols and standardized tariffs. It also aims to create a level playing field for all stakeholders while safeguarding consumer data and fostering innovation.

Mrs. Whyte emphasized the participatory approach adopted by the NCC, stating, “Effective regulation stems from inclusivity and collaboration. This forum is an opportunity for all stakeholders—operators, aggregators, businesses, service providers, and consumers—to contribute their perspectives and help refine the framework for the benefit of the entire ecosystem.”

Key Highlights of the Framework

During the forum, Mrs. Truddy Tony-Awusaku, Assistant Director at the Licensing and Authorization Department of the NCC, provided a detailed overview of the proposed framework. Key features include:

  • Centralized Routing: Establishing a unified platform for international A2P message termination.
  • Licensing Standards: Introducing a five-year renewable license with clear eligibility criteria and compliance obligations.
  • Enhanced Security: Mandating encryption, fraud detection systems, and compliance with data protection regulations.
  • Revenue Assurance: Ensuring transparency in operations and retaining local economic benefits through taxation.

Strengthening Nigeria’s Role in ECOWAS Telecom Regulation

As the telecommunications leader in West Africa, Nigeria’s strides in A2P messaging regulation set a benchmark for the region. The NCC’s framework aligns with ECOWAS’s broader goals of harmonizing telecom regulations, fostering cross-border cooperation, and driving economic integration.

A Collaborative Path Forward

The forum marks the beginning of a multi-stakeholder engagement process. The NCC assured participants of its commitment to refining the draft framework based on the valuable feedback received. Mrs. Whyte concluded by urging stakeholders to actively contribute, stating, “Together, we can create a sustainable A2P messaging ecosystem that protects consumers, promotes fair competition, and unlocks new growth opportunities.”

The NCC remains steadfast in its mission to drive innovation, protect stakeholders, and position Nigeria as a telecom regulatory powerhouse in ECOWAS and beyond.

For more information, visit www.ncc.gov.ng.


Anthony Nwosu
Principal Partner, CONN8 MEDIA SOLUTIONS NG
Email: anthony@techandbiz.com.ng
Phone: 08038187914

 

 

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle MON has commended efforts of the Nigerian Military for restoring normalcy in Zamfara and Other States.

In a remarkable demonstration of the improving security situation in Zamfara State, no fewer than 50,000 supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) came out to warmly welcome Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, the immediate past governor of the state.

The enthusiastic reception underscores the growing confidence among the populace as the security landscape continues to transform positively.

During this festive period, the Minister made a conscious decision to travel by road, rather than opting for air travel. This choice was not merely symbolic; it served to boost the morale of the dedicated soldiers stationed along the route, who are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of motorists and residents alike. The military’s presence, with checkpoints established every four kilometers, has significantly enhanced security and instilled a sense of safety among the people.

Reports indicate that the incidence of kidnapping and other violent crimes in the region is gradually becoming a thing of the past, thanks to the swift and effective response of the Nigerian security forces. The Honourable Minister’s road trip is a testament to the improved conditions, allowing citizens to travel far and wide without fear. This newfound freedom of movement is a clear indication that the collective efforts of the military and local communities are bearing fruit.

He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Nigerian military for their relentless commitment to restoring peace and security in Zamfara and neighboring states. He emphasized that the ongoing operations have not only curtailed criminal activities but have also fostered a renewed sense of hope and stability among the residents.

“As we celebrate this progress, it is essential to acknowledge the sacrifices made by our armed forces. Their bravery and dedication are pivotal in ensuring that Zamfara State continues to move towards a future characterized by safety, prosperity, and unity,” he said.

The Honourable Minister reiterated his commitment to supporting the military in their endeavors to maintain peace and security, ensuring that the people of Zamfara and all Nigerians can live without fear.

In conclusion, the recent developments in Zamfara State demonstrated a significant shift towards normalcy, and with continued collaboration between the government, military, and citizens, there is a brighter and safer future for all.

Aliyu Abdullahi
Public Analyst/ perceptionist

Deloitte Nigeria has once again demonstrated its commitment to recognizing excellence and innovation within its workforce by honoring Obiajulu Morah, Assistant Manager in the Audit, Technology Transformation unit, with the “Tech Wizard Award” for the Financial Services Industry (FSI) Audit Unit.

This award celebrates Morah’s outstanding contributions to enhancing efficiency through technology and his role as a leader in leveraging audit-related software to tackle challenges within the unit. His efforts have not only streamlined processes but have also solidified his reputation as a dependable tech resource among his colleagues.

Reflecting on the recognition, Morah described it as both humbling and motivating. “I am deeply honored to receive the Deloitte Nigeria Audit FSI Unit Tech Wizard Award. This recognition celebrates my commitment to mastering audit-related software, leveraging technology to drive efficiency, and serving as the go-to resource for tech-related challenges within our unit,” he said.

Morah also expressed heartfelt gratitude to his colleagues in the FSI team, acknowledging their support and encouragement as instrumental to his success. “I am immensely grateful to my incredible colleagues for their trust and belief in my abilities. This award inspires me to continue making a meaningful impact at Deloitte, serving both the firm and my colleagues in ways that truly matter,” he added.

The “Tech Wizard Award” underscores Deloitte’s focus on innovation and excellence in delivering solutions for its clients. By recognizing employees like Morah, the firm showcases its commitment to nurturing talent and driving transformative growth within its operations.

Morah’s achievement is a testament to Deloitte’s evolving approach to audit practices, where technology plays a critical role in maintaining its position as a leader in the professional services industry. With professionals like Morah leading the charge, Deloitte Nigeria is poised to continue setting benchmarks in the integration of technology and audit processes.

This accolade not only highlights Morah’s individual contributions but also reflects the strength of the team culture at Deloitte, where innovation, collaboration, and excellence are celebrated and encouraged.

 

 

 

Food security is an essential goal for every nation striving for sustainable development, and Nigeria is no exception. In a time when the global agriculture sector faces numerous challenges, Fountain Drip Nigeria Limited, together with its parent company, Diekolola Farms and Partners, stands as a beacon of hope and progress for Nigerian farmers and the agricultural ecosystem. From its base in Ogun State, the company has become a trusted ally for farmers nationwide, offering innovative solutions that are helping to revolutionize food production and sustain livelihoods.

At the heart of their mission lies a commitment to equipping farmers with the tools and resources they need to thrive. Fountain Drip Nigeria Limited specializes in irrigation system installation, sales of high-quality agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and agrochemicals, as well as providing crop production services and consultancy for farm setup and management. These offerings reflect the company’s unwavering dedication to improving agricultural productivity and supporting food security initiatives.

The company’s founder and CEO, Emmanuel Diekolola Adebiyi, has always been driven by a profound belief in the potential of Nigerian agriculture. Reflecting on his journey, he shared:

“Fountain Drip Nigeria Limited was born out of a vision to promote food security, not only in Nigeria but across Sub-Saharan Africa. We are passionate about empowering farmers with the resources and expertise they need to combat hunger and build a sustainable future.”

Mr. Adebiyi’s journey into the agricultural sector began in 2014, when he decided to transition from a background in Computer Engineering—having graduated from the Polytechnic Ibadan—into agriculture. As an alumnus of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, his decision was not just a career shift but a purposeful commitment to addressing one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges: hunger.

Drawing from his decade-long experience, Mr. Adebiyi highlighted the untapped potential within the country:

“Nigeria is blessed with everything we need to ensure food security—fertile land, favorable weather, and a hardworking population. Yet, we continue to rely heavily on food imports and international aid. It’s time we change this narrative by focusing on local solutions and empowering our farmers to lead the way.”

Under his leadership, Fountain Drip Nigeria Limited has supported thousands of farmers, ranging from smallholders to large-scale operations, as well as government agencies and regional stakeholders. The company’s influence extends beyond Nigeria, with customers in neighboring countries recognizing its expertise and commitment to excellence.

In 2024, Fountain Drip Nigeria Limited partnered with Soilless Farm Lab to sponsor an initiative aimed at training 4,000 Nigerian youths in vegetable production. This program reflects the company’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders. Despite the economic challenges posed by currency fluctuations and inflation, Fountain Drip has remained steadfast in making irrigation systems and agro-inputs affordable for small-scale farmers, particularly in the Southwest region of Nigeria.

Emphasizing the company’s impact, Mr. Adebiyi remarked:
“Through strategic planning and resilience, we’ve increased our customer base by 50% this year alone. Our brand is now recognized as a trusted name among farmers, and we are committed to expanding this legacy.”

Quoting Robert Ingersoll, he added: “We rise by lifting others.” This philosophy underscores Fountain Drip’s approach to business—building a thriving agricultural ecosystem by investing in the success of others.

Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Fountain Drip Nigeria Limited is a leading agricultural solutions provider. The company focuses on the importation, sale, and installation of irrigation systems across Nigeria and West Africa. With a mission to simplify and enhance farming experiences, Fountain Drip is recognized for its dedication to transparency, integrity, and customer satisfaction.

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Contact Information

Address: Opp Mechanic Village, Camp, Abeokuta, Ogun State
Phone: 0816 508 3906
Email: fountaindrip@gmail.com
Instagram: @fountaindrip_nig_ltd
Facebook: Fountaindrip Nigeria Limited