Matawalle: Tinubu’s Policies Prioritize National Unity, Not Against Northern Interests

Matawalle: Tinubu’s Policies Prioritize National Unity, Not Against Northern Interests

 

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

Nigeria’s Mobile Market Sees Promising Growth as Active Subscriptions Reach 157.3 Million in October

Nigeria’s Mobile Market Sees Promising Growth as Active Subscriptions Reach 157.3 Million in October

 

After a challenging period marked by regulatory audits and disruptions, Nigeria’s telecommunications sector is rebounding with renewed vigor. The nation’s mobile subscription base climbed to an impressive 157.3 million in October 2024, up from 154.6 million in the previous month. This marks a significant turnaround following setbacks linked to the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) audit and the implementation of the National Identification Number (NIN)-SIM linkage exercise.

The growth is being driven primarily by MTN and Airtel, two of the country’s largest mobile network operators. MTN, the undisputed market leader, added a staggering 2.2 million new subscriptions in just one month, bringing its total to 80.3 million active lines. This surge has pushed MTN’s market share to 51.09%, solidifying its role as the backbone of Nigeria’s telecom industry.

For Airtel, the month was equally promising. The network saw an influx of 697,430 new subscribers, raising its active base to 54.4 million. This growth translated to a 31.61% market share, further cementing Airtel’s position as a key player in connecting Nigerians across the country.

This recovery extends beyond mere numbers. The rise in active subscriptions has significantly improved Nigeria’s teledensity—a metric that gauges telecom penetration relative to population size. Teledensity grew from 71.46% in September to 72.7% in October, a clear indicator of the industry’s resilience and its ability to adapt to regulatory demands.

However, not all telecom operators are celebrating. Globacom, Nigeria’s third-largest provider, faced another challenging month, losing 44,635 subscriptions. Its active subscriber base now stands at 19.1 million, with its market share slipping to 12.15%. For 9mobile, the struggles are even more pronounced. The operator, which has been battling customer retention issues for years, shed 245,263 subscribers in October, leaving it with a mere 3.3 million active users and a market share of just 2.15%.

The challenges faced by these operators stem largely from the NCC’s rigorous audit, which aimed to cleanse the sector of inaccuracies and ensure compliance with industry guidelines. The audit revealed that one network operator had wrongly classified 40 million inactive lines as active. These lines, which had not generated any revenue for over 90 days, violated the NCC’s criteria for active users and had skewed the industry’s overall data.

For the industry as a whole, these regulatory interventions, while initially disruptive, appear to have laid the groundwork for a more stable and transparent telecom ecosystem. Industry insiders note that the efforts to link SIM cards with NINs and enforce proper registration processes are crucial steps toward creating a system that prioritizes both security and efficiency.

This growth story isn’t just about numbers; it’s about connecting people, businesses, and communities. From bustling urban centers to remote rural villages, telecom operators like MTN and Airtel are driving progress by enabling millions of Nigerians to stay connected, access digital services, and participate in the global economy.

As the industry regains its footing, the onus is now on all players to innovate, compete, and meet the evolving demands of Nigeria’s diverse and dynamic population. For MTN and Airtel, the challenge will be to sustain this growth, while for Globacom and 9mobile, it’s a wake-up call to rethink strategies and reclaim market relevance.

In the words of a telecom analyst, “This recovery is not just a win for the operators but a win for Nigeria. It reflects the potential of a robust telecom sector to drive digital inclusion, economic growth, and societal transformation.”

 

Afrimash Urges Poultry Farmers to Embrace Best Practices, Stresses Odor Control

Afrimash Urges Poultry Farmers to Embrace Best Practices, Stresses Odor Control

 

Afrimash Nigeria, an agritech firm based in Ibadan, Oyo State, and known for its commitment to supporting the agricultural sector with top-notch services and products, is shining a spotlight on the importance of odor control in poultry farming. The company, which prides itself on helping farmers achieve sustainable success, is now calling attention to an issue that is often underestimated but critical to the health of farms and their surrounding communities.

Speaking about the matter, the CEO of Afrimash, Ayo, explained that while poultry farming plays an essential role in food production, it sometimes brings challenges, including unpleasant odors. These odors, if not addressed, can have far-reaching consequences. They don’t just create discomfort for nearby residents but also pose risks to the environment and even the birds themselves.

“Odor control in poultry farms is not just a courtesy to neighbors—it’s a necessity for the health of the farm and the environment,” Ayo stated. He elaborated that strong odors can degrade air quality, affecting the local ecosystem and leading to environmental pollution. This can, in turn, strain relationships with surrounding communities as persistent bad smells often lead to complaints and even intervention by regulatory bodies.

Beyond the impact on the environment and community, Ayo stressed the implications for the poultry’s well-being. Poor air quality can compromise the respiratory health of the birds, making them more susceptible to diseases. Additionally, he noted that unpleasant odors have a way of affecting the value of properties in the vicinity, a factor that many farmers might not consider when planning their operations.

According to Afrimash, investing in odor control measures is a win for everyone involved. It ensures that farmers can maintain healthy, productive poultry, avoid regulatory issues, and foster goodwill with their neighbors.

Afrimash has also reaffirmed its dedication to educating farmers on the best practices for poultry management. The company regularly shares resources on modern farming techniques and sustainable solutions. “We believe knowledge is key,” Ayo added. “Farmers who stay informed and proactive in addressing challenges like odor control can take their operations to new heights.”

Afrimash encourages poultry farmers and enthusiasts to follow its platforms (@afrimash) for more tips and updates on how to improve poultry health and operations.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

#afrimash #poultryfarming #agritech #sustainability

 

NCC Champions Seamless, Safe, and Profitable Telecom Industry Through Type Approval Standards

NCC Champions Seamless, Safe, and Profitable Telecom Industry Through Type Approval Standards

 

In its relentless drive to create a thriving, efficient, and safe telecommunications landscape, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has implemented comprehensive standards for telecom equipment through its “Type Approval” process. These regulations are designed to ensure that every device used in Nigeria’s telecom ecosystem is not only safe but also operates seamlessly to support the industry’s growth and enhance the quality of service (QoS) for millions of Nigerians.

The NCC’s vision is clear: to make Nigeria’s telecom industry a model of excellence, fostering innovation, interoperability, and consumer satisfaction. As the industry regulator, the NCC recognizes that its role extends beyond oversight—it is about enabling progress and profitability for stakeholders, from operators to end-users.

A Commitment to Seamlessness and Safety

The Commission, empowered by the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003, emphasizes that its Type Approval standards are not just technical requirements—they are the backbone of a robust telecom environment. According to the NCC:

> “Our mission is to ensure that every telecommunications device operates harmoniously within Nigeria’s ecosystem, prioritizing safety, affordability, and user experience. This is vital for creating a network that supports innovation and delivers world-class service to consumers.”

 

The Type Approval process ensures that all telecom equipment—whether used by operators or individuals—meets stringent safety and operational benchmarks before entering the Nigerian market.

Global Standards for a World-Class Industry

Understanding the global nature of telecommunications, the NCC has aligned its standards with international best practices. Drawing from globally recognized institutions such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI), and others, the Commission ensures that Nigeria’s telecom industry is globally competitive.

This alignment means that equipment manufacturers, vendors, and operators can seamlessly integrate their technologies into Nigeria’s networks while maintaining affordability and quality for consumers. Additionally, the NCC leverages Nigeria’s membership in organizations like the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to stay at the forefront of global regulatory advancements.

Empowering the Industry for Growth

The NCC’s Type Approval standards cover a wide range of telecom equipment, from mobile phones and wireless adapters to advanced satellite communication devices. These standards are grouped into categories to address specific industry needs, including:

Safety and reliability: Ensuring devices are safe for consumers and operators.

Electromagnetic compatibility: Minimizing interference for smooth operations.

Physical interoperability: Guaranteeing seamless integration across networks and systems.

By ensuring that only high-quality, compliant equipment is used, the NCC provides operators with the tools they need to deliver reliable services. This ultimately reduces operational challenges, enhances consumer satisfaction, and builds trust in Nigeria’s telecom sector.

Supporting Innovation and Excluding Obsolescence

While the NCC champions innovation, it also recognizes the importance of focusing on relevant technologies. The Commission excludes obsolete services, such as analogue mobile telephony, and those unlikely to gain traction in Nigeria, ensuring that resources are dedicated to impactful advancements.

Deepening Quality of Service for Nigerians

At the heart of the NCC’s mission is the Nigerian consumer. By enforcing these standards, the Commission not only ensures safety and compatibility but also deepens the quality of service across the board. Whether it’s clearer calls, faster internet, or more reliable connections, the Type Approval process directly contributes to improving the daily experiences of Nigerians.

A Profitable and Sustainable Industry

For operators and stakeholders, the NCC’s focus on international standards and interoperability creates a level playing field that fosters growth and profitability. By eliminating the risks associated with substandard equipment, the Commission helps businesses reduce costs, optimize performance, and deliver better value to their customers.

A Partner for Progress

The NCC’s approach to regulation is not about imposing restrictions; it’s about building partnerships for progress. By working closely with manufacturers, operators, and international organizations, the Commission ensures that Nigeria’s telecom industry remains a leader in Africa and a benchmark for others to follow.

 

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission’s Type Approval standards reflect its unwavering dedication to creating a seamless, safe, and profitable telecom industry. By prioritizing global best practices, innovation, and consumer satisfaction, the NCC continues to empower the industry, deepen the quality of service, and position Nigeria as a hub for telecommunications excellence.

 

Is Netflix Exiting Nigeria? Analyzing the Streaming Giant’s Position in Nollywood

Is Netflix Exiting Nigeria? Analyzing the Streaming Giant’s Position in Nollywood

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

The Nigerian entertainment industry, particularly Nollywood, has grown into one of the largest and most influential movie industries globally. Since Kenneth Nnebue’s pioneering film Living in Bondage, Nollywood has attracted significant international investments, including from Netflix, the global streaming giant. However, recent rumors about Netflix pulling out of Nigeria have raised concerns and sparked debates about the sustainability and challenges of doing business in the Nigerian film industry.

Netflix’s Impact on Nollywood

Netflix’s entry into Nigeria began on a high note, marked by its acquisition of Genevieve Nnaji’s Lionheart, the first Nigerian film to stream on the platform. This milestone opened doors for several collaborations, enabling top producers to showcase compelling Nigerian stories to a global audience. Netflix not only streamed these movies but also invested millions in their production.

However, insiders allege that these investments were mismanaged. According to filmmaker Daddy Dabz, “Netflix funded projects upfront, but some producers diverted funds, allocating only a fraction to actual production, which led to substandard movies with poor storytelling and quality.” These issues reportedly affected Netflix’s ratings and led the company to revise its operating model in Nigeria.

Shifting Strategies and Terms

In response to these challenges, Netflix has reportedly stopped directly funding movie productions in Nigeria. Instead, filmmakers must now independently fund their projects, which Netflix will only purchase if they meet the platform’s standards. This new model emphasizes accountability and aims to enhance content quality.

Nollywood comedian Basketmouth shed light on the issue, claiming, “Many producers misused funds, prioritizing personal luxury over movie quality. Netflix is tired of this and has decided to let filmmakers prove themselves before investing.”

Is Netflix Truly Leaving Nigeria?

Contrary to circulating rumors, Netflix has not entirely exited the Nigerian market. Users can still access their accounts and stream movies. What has changed is the company’s investment strategy. While some critics view this shift as an indirect exit, others argue it is a necessary step to hold the industry accountable.

Comparisons have been drawn to companies like GSK, which maintained product availability in Nigeria despite halting direct operations. Similarly, Netflix’s new terms mean the platform remains active but will no longer fund local projects upfront.

Industry Reactions

Nollywood stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions. Filmmaker ‘Nosa of Nollywood’ attributed Netflix’s reduced involvement to “greed and dishonesty” among Nigerian producers. “Netflix left because funds meant for production were often misappropriated, leaving crew members and actors underpaid,” she lamented.

Murtala Muhammed Balogun added, “Netflix’s decision isn’t a problem. It’s about ensuring filmmakers produce quality content before selling it to the platform.”

Meanwhile, Ndubueze Odum humorously noted the public’s reaction, saying, “Netflix leaving Nigeria means no more ‘Netflix and Chill.’ But seriously, their reduced investment will hurt Nollywood’s global exposure and job creation.”

The Way Forward for Nollywood

Netflix has reaffirmed its commitment to telling Nigerian stories, but the onus now lies on Nollywood producers to adapt to the new terms. As alternative platforms like Amazon Prime Video gain traction, Nigerian filmmakers must improve transparency and production quality to attract international partnerships.

The rumored Netflix “exit” highlights deeper systemic issues within Nollywood that must be addressed to ensure the industry’s sustainability and global competitiveness.

Final Thoughts

For now, Netflix remains a key player in Nigeria, albeit with a revised operational approach. This Christmas, Nigerian audiences can still expect blockbuster releases on the platform, but the broader industry must embrace accountability to thrive in this new era of filmmaking.

 

 

CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, Bags CIBN Fellowship; Unveils 2025 Economic Agenda

CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, Bags CIBN Fellowship; Unveils 2025 Economic Agenda

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has been conferred with the prestigious Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) at the 59th Annual Bankers Dinner held in Lagos. In his keynote address, Cardoso outlined Nigeria’s economic outlook for 2025, emphasizing the need for greater economic diversification and robust reforms to ensure financial stability.

Banking Sector Resilience and Economic Reforms
Reflecting on the past year, the governor highlighted the resilience of the banking sector, citing a non-performing loan (NPL) ratio under 5% and liquidity ratios exceeding 30%. He assured that banks are well-positioned to drive economic growth, particularly through increased credit access for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“Our journey toward economic reform has yielded encouraging results,” Cardoso noted, adding that the CBN is committed to fostering trust and stability in the financial system.

The Riot Act on Financial Malpractices
Addressing allegations of financial malpractice and deliberate cash flow disruptions, the CBN governor read the riot act to institutions found culpable. “The CBN will not tolerate any sabotage of seamless cash flow for Nigerians,” he said, urging customers to report difficulties in withdrawing cash from bank branches or ATMs directly to the CBN starting December 1, 2024.

Inflation, Innovation, and Financial Inclusion
While acknowledging that inflation remains unacceptably high, Cardoso expressed optimism, saying, “Our commitment to price stability is unwavering. We aim to ensure the benefits are felt by every Nigerian.”

He commended Nigeria’s burgeoning fintech sector for driving financial inclusion and attracting global investors, with several startups achieving unicorn status this year. “Nigeria’s leadership in innovation is undeniable,” he declared.

Payment System Vision 2025 and Capacity Building
Unveiling the CBN’s Payment System Vision 2025, Cardoso outlined plans to advance cross-border payments, implement an open banking framework, and expand the regulatory sandbox to foster innovation.

He also announced the launch of comprehensive mentorship and capacity-building initiatives to equip young Nigerians with the skills needed to drive economic resilience and sustainable growth.

A Call to Collective Action
Cardoso charged financial institutions to rise to their market-making responsibilities and deliver tailored solutions that empower customers to manage risks effectively. “This is not just the Central Bank’s journey; it is Nigeria’s journey. Building an economy where every individual, business, and community thrives requires collaboration among banks, regulators, businesses, and citizens,” he stated.

Recognition and Fellowship Awards
The evening also celebrated outstanding contributions to the banking industry, with CBN Governor Cardoso and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu being awarded the CIBN Fellowship for their dedication to economic transformation.

As Nigeria steps into 2025, Cardoso’s vision signals a robust and inclusive approach to tackling economic challenges and positioning the nation as a leader in innovation and financial growth.

 

NCC Introduces New Licensing Requirements to Boost Nigeria’s Telecom Sector

NCC Introduces New Licensing Requirements to Boost Nigeria’s Telecom Sector

 

As technology evolves at an unprecedented pace, staying ahead has become critical for industries, especially in telecommunications. Regulators like the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) are tasked with keeping up to ensure the telecom ecosystem thrives. In a major step forward, the NCC has outlined an updated list of licensing agreements aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s telecom industry, fostering innovation, and ensuring quality services for consumers.

One of the key areas the NCC is addressing is access to connectivity. For instance, the Wholesale Wireless Access license allows companies to offer large-scale wireless services to meet the growing demands for data and internet access. Alongside this, the Open Access Fibre Infrastructure license supports the expansion of high-speed broadband, ensuring Nigerians benefit from faster and more reliable internet connections.

The Commission also places a strong emphasis on Value Added Services (VAS), which enhance telecom offerings beyond basic calls and texts. Licenses in this category include those for services like mobile content creation, special numbering solutions, and customer support systems via call centers. These licenses are critical for businesses looking to innovate and deliver tailored solutions to Nigerian consumers.

Infrastructure is another area the NCC is targeting. Licenses for Submarine Cable Infrastructure & Landing Stations, National Carriers, and Unified Access Services are designed to create a strong backbone for telecom operations across the country. These licenses ensure that businesses and individuals alike have access to seamless and reliable communication networks.

The regulator is also accommodating niche services, such as vehicle tracking, trunk radio operations, and public payphone services, through specific licensing. Moreover, licenses for Internet Services and Internet Exchange Platforms highlight the NCC’s commitment to improving the country’s digital landscape, supporting both businesses and individuals in their daily connectivity needs.

To ensure a collaborative and competitive environment, the NCC has introduced licenses for Infrastructure Sharing and Collocation Services. These allow operators to share resources, such as towers and data centers, reducing costs and improving efficiency.

Beyond licensing documents, the NCC has introduced operational frameworks to guide the industry. For example, the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) Licensing Framework provides a pathway for companies that want to offer telecom services without owning physical infrastructure. Similarly, the Accounting Separation Framework promotes transparency, helping operators separate costs and revenues for better accountability.

The NCC has also introduced innovative frameworks for high-speed connectivity, such as the 70/80GHz E-Band Licensing Framework, which is tailored for enterprise services and last-mile connectivity. Additionally, the Unified Access Service Framework simplifies the licensing process for operators offering a combination of telecom services.

By introducing these updated licenses and frameworks, the NCC is setting a bold vision for Nigeria’s telecom sector. The aim is to create a dynamic environment where businesses can thrive, consumers get better services, and Nigeria’s position as a tech hub in Africa is solidified.

These changes reflect the NCC’s commitment to driving progress and ensuring that the telecom industry keeps pace with global trends. Operators, innovators, and stakeholders are encouraged to explore the full list of requirements available on the NCC website, as they align with this new wave of technological advancement.

 

Nigerian Delegation Visits MTN Group Headquarters to Strengthen Bilateral Relations

Nigerian Delegation Visits MTN Group Headquarters to Strengthen Bilateral Relations

 

A high-ranking delegation from Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently visited the MTN Group headquarters in Johannesburg, South Africa. The visit highlighted the growing efforts to deepen economic and diplomatic relations between the two largest economies in Africa.

The Nigerian team was led by Rt. Hon. Wole Oke, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and included prominent figures such as Amb. Ahmed Sulu-Gambari, the Head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Nigeria’s High Commissioner to South Africa, H.E. Alexander T. Ajayi; and other senior officials.

MTN Group’s top executives welcomed the delegation, including Group Chairman, Mcebisi Jonas; Chief of Staff (CEO’s Office), Jerry Varachia; Executive for Network Design, Amith Maharaj; Executive for Core Mergers and Acquisitions, Annemarie Krijnauw; Executive for Internal Audit, Motselisi Molapo; and Senior Manager for Strategic Public Affairs, Dominic Khumalo.

During the meeting, discussions focused on fostering stronger ties between Nigeria and South Africa. Both parties acknowledged MTN’s significant role in bridging economic and cultural gaps between the two nations. The Nigerian delegation emphasized the importance of private sector contributions to advancing regional integration, while MTN executives reiterated their commitment to contributing to Africa’s shared growth story.

This engagement comes ahead of Nigeria’s President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s planned state visit to South Africa. MTN Group Chairman, Mcebisi Jonas, assured the delegation of MTN’s continued support for the Nigerian presidency’s economic and diplomatic initiatives.

The visit further cements MTN’s role as a key player in enhancing collaboration and fostering goodwill between Nigeria and South Africa. It also underscores the potential of private-public partnerships to drive economic development across the continent.

#DoingGoodTogether

 

Judiciary and Telecoms: How Nigeria’s Judges are Shaping the Digital Future

Judiciary and Telecoms: How Nigeria’s Judges are Shaping the Digital Future

 

By Anthony Nwosu

 

 

In today’s world, where technology is transforming every aspect of life, the role of the judiciary in supporting this digital shift often goes unnoticed. But for Nigeria, the partnership between the legal system and the telecommunications sector is more crucial than ever, as both work together to pave the way for a digital future that benefits everyone.

At the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and National Judicial Institute (NJI) 2024 Judges’ Workshop, held recently at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, this collaboration was brought into sharp focus. With the theme “The Role of the Judiciary in Accelerating Digital Transformation in Nigeria,” the event gathered judges, legal experts, and telecom leaders for an important discussion about the growing need for the judiciary to stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving digital world.

A Call for Stronger Judicial-Industry Ties

Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the NCC, kicked off the event with a compelling message about the judiciary’s essential role in Nigeria’s digital journey. “As technology reshapes society, it’s not just about keeping up with change—it’s about guiding it. The judiciary is key in creating a legal framework that supports innovation while ensuring fairness, justice, and protection for all,” Dr. Maida said.

For him, the workshop wasn’t just another event; it was a call to action. The telecommunications industry is transforming every part of life in Nigeria—from how we communicate to how businesses operate—so it’s crucial that the legal system adapts to keep pace. The partnership between the judiciary and telecom sector, Dr. Maida pointed out, is no longer optional. It’s a necessity.

Addressing the Challenges of Infrastructure Protection and National Security

One of the most urgent issues raised during the workshop was the protection of critical telecom infrastructure, which has been under constant threat from theft and vandalism. Dr. Maida shared the concern that damage to fiber optic cables, mobile masts, and data centers disrupts not only telecom services but also the broader digital economy. The NCC, he said, has been working with the government to protect this infrastructure—and the judiciary’s support is vital.

A significant milestone in this effort came in July 2024, when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed an order declaring telecom infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), making it legally protected. Dr. Maida called this a crucial step forward, but stressed that the real work begins now: enforcing the law. “With the judiciary’s help, this law can be the powerful tool we need to safeguard Nigeria’s digital future,” he said.

Digital Justice: How Judges are Adapting to New Realities

The digital age has brought about a host of new challenges for the legal system. With the rise of e-commerce, social media, and digital contracts, Nigeria’s judges are now tasked with interpreting laws that didn’t exist when many of them first entered the profession. Issues like cybercrime, data privacy, and online fraud are now part of their daily reality. And with this comes the need to evolve and stay informed.

Dr. Maida explained that the judiciary must not only react to new tech trends but also proactively shape the legal landscape. Judges, he said, must be able to interpret digital contracts, settle online disputes, and ensure that digital rights are protected in a world where personal data is more valuable than ever.

“The judiciary must ensure that our digital economy is built on trust,” Dr. Maida said. “This means being vigilant about protecting citizens’ rights online and ensuring that all digital interactions—whether it’s a transaction or an online message—are safe, secure, and just.”

A Shared Vision for the Future

What became clear as the workshop unfolded was that the judiciary and the telecom sector share a common vision for Nigeria’s digital future. They understand that to succeed, they must work together—aligning their priorities to protect infrastructure, uphold the rule of law, and create an environment where technology can thrive without compromising people’s rights.

Dr. Maida ended the workshop with a hopeful message. “This is just the beginning,” he said, referring to the collaboration between the NCC and the NJI. “The future of Nigeria’s digital economy depends on a strong partnership between these two sectors. Together, we will ensure that Nigeria’s digital transformation is not only innovative and competitive but also just and equitable.”

As the event wrapped up, it was clear that the judges who attended—many of whom are already grappling with new tech-related cases—left with a renewed sense of responsibility. The workshop was a reminder that while technology is advancing quickly, the law must evolve just as fast. By working hand-in-hand with the telecom sector, the judiciary will help build a legal system that supports and protects Nigeria’s digital growth.

This partnership is more than just a meeting of minds; it’s a partnership that will shape Nigeria’s digital future, ensuring it is a future where technology and justice go hand-in-hand.

 

The Hidden Roadblocks to Nigeria’s Digital Revolution

The Hidden Roadblocks to Nigeria’s Digital Revolution

In the heart of Nigeria’s bustling cities and its quiet rural communities, an invisible challenge is quietly stalling the nation’s journey toward a digital future. While vandalism and theft of telecom infrastructure are often cited as the primary culprits behind poor connectivity, an even more insidious issue is threatening to derail progress: denial of access to telecom facilities.

This growing crisis took center stage at the Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Protection and Resilience Workshop Series, held in Abuja and organized by the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCCC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser. Among the speakers was Dr. Aminu Maida, a leading figure in the telecom sector, who painted a sobering picture of a nation held back by bureaucratic hurdles, community resistance, and property disputes.

“In 2023 alone, we recorded over 20,000 cases of site access denial,” Dr. Maida revealed. “Each of these represents a barrier to connecting more Nigerians and building the robust digital economy we desperately need.”

Behind the Numbers: The Human Cost

For the average Nigerian, the impact of these access denials is felt in dropped calls, painfully slow internet speeds, and entire regions left disconnected. But the problem goes far deeper than just inconvenience.

Consider Halima, a schoolteacher in a rural part of Kaduna State. When her school shifted to a digital curriculum during the pandemic, Halima struggled to access online resources due to poor connectivity in her area. “Sometimes, I had to travel over 10 kilometers just to download lesson plans or respond to emails,” she shared. “The lack of a reliable network made my work almost impossible.”

Halima’s story is echoed across Nigeria. Small businesses in underserved areas are unable to tap into e-commerce opportunities, students are excluded from online education, and patients in remote locations miss out on telemedicine services. The denial of access to telecom sites is, in essence, a denial of opportunity.

Who Is Blocking Progress?

The reasons behind these denials vary. Property owners often demand exorbitant fees for access to their land, while some communities block infrastructure projects due to environmental concerns or disputes over compensation. In other cases, local governments impose cumbersome bureaucratic processes, slowing down critical maintenance or expansion efforts.

These obstacles create a ripple effect. Telecom operators, unable to upgrade or repair their infrastructure, struggle to meet the growing demand for connectivity. For a country aiming to become a leading digital economy in Africa, this is a significant setback.

A Sector in Crisis

Dr. Maida, speaking with urgency, emphasized that this issue is not just about telecom companies. “This is a national problem,” he stated. “Every access denial is a missed opportunity for progress—not just for businesses but for individuals, families, and communities.”

The figures are stark. With over 20,000 access denials recorded last year alone, the scale of the problem is undeniable. Each denial represents a delay in expanding networks, upgrading services, or reaching new communities.

A Call for Unity

The CNII workshop aimed to tackle this crisis head-on, bringing together policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders. Participants agreed on the urgent need for collaboration to protect and expand Nigeria’s critical telecom infrastructure.

“We need a shift in mindset,” Dr. Maida urged. “Communities and property owners must understand that connectivity benefits everyone. It’s not just about the operators—it’s about education, healthcare, business, and even national security.”

The Way Forward

Solutions proposed at the workshop include stronger regulatory frameworks, public awareness campaigns, and streamlined processes for granting access to telecom sites. However, these efforts require buy-in from all stakeholders, from local governments to private landowners.

For Nigeria to realize its digital ambitions, these barriers must be addressed swiftly and decisively. As the nation continues to expand its digital footprint, the importance of cooperation cannot be overstated.

A Shared Responsibility

The denial of access to telecom facilities is a symptom of deeper challenges—lack of awareness, distrust, and fragmented systems. Overcoming these obstacles will take more than just technical solutions; it will require a cultural shift that places connectivity at the heart of national development.

For now, the stories of people like Halima serve as a stark reminder of what’s at stake. Nigeria’s digital revolution is within reach, but only if the barriers blocking its path are removed.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu