NCC Decries Vandalism and Access Denial, Warns of Far-Reaching Consequences on Nigeria’s Telecom Industry

NCC Decries Vandalism and Access Denial, Warns of Far-Reaching Consequences on Nigeria’s Telecom Industry

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has raised an urgent alarm over the destructive impact of vandalism and denial of access to telecom facilities, describing these challenges as critical threats to the nation’s digital economy and connectivity goals.

Speaking at the Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Protection and Resilience Workshop Series, organized by the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCCC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser, Dr. Aminu Maida from the NCC painted a sobering picture of how these issues ripple across the telecommunications ecosystem, affecting millions of Nigerians.

A Chain Reaction of Challenges
Dr. Maida revealed that vandalism and theft, coupled with widespread denial of access to telecom facilities, have created a domino effect that cripples network expansion and service maintenance. “In 2023 alone, over 20,000 cases of site access denial were recorded,” he said. “Each of these cases represents a missed opportunity to connect more Nigerians and a barrier to building a robust digital economy.”

The denial of access by property owners, communities, and various levels of government has hindered operators from installing new infrastructure and maintaining existing ones. This seemingly isolated issue has far-reaching consequences, not only for the telecom industry but also for the socioeconomic growth of the nation.

The Domino Effects on Nigerians
When a telecom site is vandalized or access to it is restricted, the effects extend beyond the immediate inconvenience of dropped calls or slow internet speeds:

1. Economic Stagnation: Businesses, especially SMEs reliant on digital connectivity, are unable to thrive due to inconsistent or unavailable services. Entrepreneurs are losing customers, while e-commerce platforms struggle to meet demands.

2. Disrupted Education: With online learning now a critical part of education, students in affected areas are left disconnected, their academic progress hindered by poor network quality.

3. Healthcare Impact: Telemedicine services, which rely on stable networks to provide remote consultations, become unreliable, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare is already limited.

4. National Security Risks: Vandalized or inaccessible telecom facilities can compromise communication systems used for security and emergency response, leaving communities vulnerable.

5. Digital Transformation Delays: The federal government’s ambition to build a thriving digital economy is directly impacted, as these setbacks hinder progress in broadband penetration and other critical infrastructure goals.

 

A Call for Collective Action
The NCC emphasized that these issues cannot be solved in isolation. Telecom operators, government agencies, community leaders, and property owners must work collaboratively to address the root causes.

“This isn’t just about telecom companies—it’s about the entire nation,” Dr. Maida stated. “Every time a mast is vandalized or a site is blocked, it creates a ripple effect that hurts every Nigerian in one way or another. Protecting telecom facilities is a collective responsibility.”

The Road Ahead
To tackle these challenges, the NCC is intensifying its advocacy and engaging with stakeholders to find lasting solutions. Proposals include stricter laws against vandalism, public awareness campaigns on the importance of telecom infrastructure, and streamlined processes for gaining access to sites in restricted areas.

As Nigeria strives to enhance its digital connectivity and position itself as a global tech hub, protecting the backbone of its telecom network has never been more critical. Failure to act decisively, the NCC warned, could result in a stagnated digital economy and a disconnected population at a time when connectivity is synonymous with progress.

The stakes are high, but with a united approach, the vision of a fully connected Nigeria can still be achieved.

 

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

Matawalle Returns to Sokoto, Intensifies Fight Against Banditry and Kidnapping

Matawalle Returns to Sokoto, Intensifies Fight Against Banditry and Kidnapping

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, has returned to Sokoto for the second time in two months, intensifying efforts to combat the rising threats of banditry and kidnapping in the region. The visit, mandated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, highlights the federal government’s determination to restore peace and security to Nigeria’s troubled Northwest.

Matawalle’s visit comes as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen military operations and enhance the fight against criminal elements destabilizing the region. Speaking to the press, the Minister expressed the government’s unwavering commitment to tackling insecurity.

“I am here on the directive of Mr. President to assure the people of Sokoto and the entire Northwest that we will not rest until this menace is eradicated. We are fully committed to winning this war against bandits and their collaborators,” Matawalle stated.

During his address, the Minister praised the military’s success in Operation “Fansan Yamma,” the latest in a series of offensives aimed at dismantling criminal networks in the region. Matawalle expressed confidence that the continued efforts of Nigeria’s security forces would yield further success in the coming weeks.

He also emphasized the importance of political unity in the fight against insecurity, calling on leaders across all political divides to support President Tinubu’s efforts. “We must come together as one. This is not just a federal government fight; it requires the cooperation of everyone. We will continue to boost the morale of our soldiers and security agencies to ensure lasting peace in this region,” Matawalle urged.

The Minister issued a stern warning to bandits and their supporters, vowing that the government would not back down. “We will not allow these criminals to terrorize our people any longer. We will keep the pressure on them until they have no place to hide. No amount of blackmail will shake our resolve,” he said.

Dr. Matawalle’s return to Sokoto marks a critical step in the government’s broader strategy to rid the region of criminal activities. His visit reinforces the administration’s resolve to confront the security challenges head-on, ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians in affected areas.

 

 

By Tech and Biz News Staff Reporter

 

Bandit Leader Turji Denies Links to Matawalle, Claims Divine Backing for Group’s Activities

Bandit Leader Turji Denies Links to Matawalle, Claims Divine Backing for Group’s Activities

 

Notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, has denied allegations that the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, is sponsoring his group’s violent activities in Zamfara State. Turji, in a video statement, claimed that his operations are solely sanctioned by divine will and not backed by any political figure.

This declaration comes amidst ongoing tensions between Matawalle, the former governor of Zamfara State, and his successor, Governor Dauda Lawal. Both politicians have been engaged in a war of words, accusing each other of links to the state’s banditry crisis. Recently, Matawalle challenged Lawal to swear on the Quran that he had no connections to the bandits destabilizing the region.

In response, Turji categorically dismissed claims that his group has received political support from any past or current officials. “Governor Dauda Lawal accusing Bello Matawalle of being a terrorist sponsor won’t solve anything. When Matawalle was governor, who was sponsoring us? Likewise, when Abdulaziz Yari was governor, who was sponsoring us? No one is supporting us except God,” Turji said in his video message.

Observers say that with this statement, Matawalle may be exonerated from the ongoing allegations that have marred his political standing. However, the public discourse over the root causes of Zamfara’s banditry crisis continues to evolve as both politicians remain locked in blame games.

The issue has drawn national attention as security challenges persist in Zamfara, a state that has been plagued by years of violence and insecurity fueled by banditry and kidnapping rings.

 

Urgent Message for President Tinubu: Dele Momodu’s Open Letter

Urgent Message for President Tinubu: Dele Momodu’s Open Letter

 

Dele Momodu, the publisher of Ovation magazine and a prominent media entrepreneur, has penned a candid open letter to President Bola Tinubu, expressing his deep concerns over the state of the nation and offering pointed advice. Despite his opposition status, Momodu underscores his longstanding relationship with the President and emphasizes his commitment to delivering the truth.

Nigeria’s Economic Crisis

Momodu begins by highlighting the dire economic situation, stating, “Nigeria is in big trouble. Our economy has virtually collapsed.” He criticizes the government’s extravagant spending during a period that demands strict frugality, pointing to purchases of presidential jets, construction of lavish monuments, and the distribution of cash as palliatives. According to Momodu, such actions signal a failed and careless administration. He urges President Tinubu to curb excessive spending to free up resources for essential development.

Performance Over Politics

Addressing the President’s apparent desire for a second term, Momodu advises that the best path to re-election lies in tangible performance, not in reckless expenditure. He calls for investments in vocational skills for the youth, local agriculture, and educational institutions. He dismisses the strategy of cash distribution through politicians as “unhealthy and unhelpful,” labeling it the “height of cluelessness.”

Beware of Flattery and Enforce Discipline

Momodu warns President Tinubu to be wary of sycophants in the National Assembly who have turned him into a deity. He specifically mentions Ndume as a trustworthy ally and stresses the importance of listening to genuine advice. Furthermore, Momodu calls for strict enforcement of discipline within the leadership, citing Nyesom Wike’s public disrespect over the Fubara matter as a situation requiring immediate sanction to prevent national chaos.

Momodu concludes by acknowledging that he does not expect President Tinubu to act on his suggestions but hopes his words will resonate during a moment of reflection.

Arca Money : Leading the Fintech Revolution in Nigeria and Beyond

Arca Money : Leading the Fintech Revolution in Nigeria and Beyond

 

Arca Payments Company Limited, one of the foremost financial technology (fintech) firms in Nigeria located at Lekki recently launched an Agency Banking solution known as Arca Money to ensure that Nigerians enjoy seamless banking and bridging the gap of the “unbanked” in the country. This is launch has cemented ARCA’s position as a fintech firm of repute which is making significant strides in shaping the future of digital payments in the country.

Arca Payments Company Limited is known for its expertise in payment gateways, payment switches, and the innovative ARCA Agency Banking, is setting new standards in fintech innovation.Founded in 2016, ARCA has rapidly established itself as a key player in Nigeria’s fintech landscape. Holding a comprehensive set of regulatory licenses issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria, including the coveted Switching License, Agency Banking License, and Processing License, ARCA has distinguished itself as one of the few entities with such a wide array of licenses. The company’s commitment to in-house development is evident in its proprietary switch technology, which has played a pivotal role in its journey, contributing to remarkable achievements within the fintech ecosystem and consolidating its position in the market.

ARCA’s primary mission centers around simplifying payment acceptance and processing for both financial institutions and SMEs. With a primary focus on Africa’s dynamic payments landscape, ARCA’s suite of products and solutions seamlessly bridges the gap between individuals, financial institutions, banks, and businesses, contributing to the growth of Africa’s digital economy.

In a media chat, Dare Owolabi, Executive Vice Chairman of Arca Payments Company Limited said that ARCA’s collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has been pivotal to its success. Owolabi commended the CBN for its support in creating a conducive environment for fintech growth, emphasizing the regulator’s dedication to addressing risks and complexities. He stressed the importance of continued collaboration from both operational and legal perspectives.

Owolabi said “As a stakeholder in Nigeria, ARCA Network has ambitious expansion plans across Africa. The company is poised to enter the East African region in the coming months, with efforts underway to secure licenses in Kenya. South Africa is also on the horizon, reflecting ARCA’s commitment to exporting its fintech expertise across the continent.”

He added that “ARCA’s Business-to-Business (B2B) solutions have been instrumental in reshaping the fintech landscape. The company’s Point of Sale (PoS) services, particularly the innovative Arca Pay feature, address common challenges in the PoS space. ARCA’s recently launched Agency Banking solution, known as Arca Money, empowers authorized agents to facilitate seamless financial transactions for customers, improving accessibility to banking services. ”
“Our groundbreaking solution is backed by extensive research, ensuring flawless transaction execution, instant settlements, and impressive uptime. Commission structures designed to benefit merchants have been integrated into the solution. ARCA’s PoS system has been made more readily available and cost-effective across different regions, simplifying banking and transactions for agents”, Owolabi opined.

On their payment gateway, ArcaPay, simplifies secure fund transfers for businesses, offering advanced technology for both single and bulk transfers. Additionally, Arca TMS, a software managing POS terminals, provides monitoring and analytics for ARCA Payments and its customers, along with a robust report engine for acquirers and merchants to access transaction data from their terminals. Arca Switch, a cutting-edge payment infrastructure built with cloud-native technology, facilitates seamless payments between financial institutions and non-financial players.

Security is paramount at ARCA Network. The company proudly holds the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) certification, emphasizing its commitment to security and compliance with global best practices. Impressively, ARCA has maintained an impeccable record with zero instances of fraud. This success is attributed to the vigilance of dedicated fraud monitoring and compliance teams, who consistently prioritize security.

To ensure robust support and address potential downtime issues, ARCA has implemented a comprehensive mechanism to manage online real-time operations. Backup systems are in place to mitigate disruptions arising from external factors, such as internet network providers. ARCA’s support system operates around the clock, ensuring that queries and concerns are promptly addressed.

ARCA Network’s future plans include enhancing its Agency Banking offering with new features and functionalities. As the year approaches its end, ARCA Network is actively engaged in extensive awareness campaigns and sensitization efforts, particularly focused on their Agency Banking services.

 

ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU

 

ArcaPay, simplifies secure fund transfers for businesses, offering advanced technology for both single and bulk transfers. Additionally, Arca TMS, a software managing POS terminals, provides monitoring and analytics for ARCA Payments and its customers, along with a robust report engine for acquirers and merchants to access transaction data from their terminals. Arca Switch, a cutting-edge payment infrastructure built with cloud-native technology, facilitates seamless payments between financial institutions and non-financial players.

Safeguarding Nigerian Businesses: The Crucial Role of ZORACOM NSOC Centre in Cybersecurity

Safeguarding Nigerian Businesses: The Crucial Role of ZORACOM NSOC Centre in Cybersecurity

 

 

Breaches are one thing that any modern company must be wary of and invest to protect. As we are getting more exposed in the virtual world, the 21st century company is digitally savvy and the need to be online is critical, protecting these online credentials and assets becomes imminent and imperative. Zoracom, an indigenous IT firm located in the upscale are of Lagos has one of the best facilities in the sub- Saharan Africa to protect your assets against any breach of any kind. Known as NSOC Centre (Network Security Operations Centre), this facility has been described as one of a kind in ECOWAS region.

The ZORACOM NSOC Centre holds significant importance for Nigerian businesses in the realm of cybersecurity and safeguarding their digital infrastructure. In today’s interconnected world, where businesses heavily rely on technology and data, the need for robust cybersecurity measures is paramount. The ZORACOM NSOC Centre plays a crucial role in addressing this need by providing advanced security services, proactive monitoring, and incident response capabilities.

First and foremost, the ZORACOM NSOC Centre serves as a centralized hub for monitoring and protecting the networks and systems of Nigerian businesses. It employs cutting-edge technologies, sophisticated tools, and a team of skilled cybersecurity professionals to continuously monitor network traffic, detect any suspicious activities or potential threats, and respond swiftly to mitigate risks. This proactive approach helps in identifying and neutralizing security breaches before they can cause significant harm to businesses.Zoracom

By leveraging advanced threat intelligence and analytics, the ZORACOM NSOC Centre can identify emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and attack patterns. This allows them to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and implement effective countermeasures. Nigerian businesses can benefit from this intelligence-driven approach as it enhances their ability to protect sensitive data, intellectual property, and customer information, thus fostering trust and reliability.

Moreover, the ZORACOM NSOC Centre offers real-time incident response capabilities. In the event of a security incident or breach, the NSOC team promptly responds to contain the threat, minimize the impact, and restore normal operations. This rapid response is crucial for businesses as it reduces downtime, prevents financial losses, and protects their reputation.

Additionally, the ZORACOM NSOC Centre provides round-the-clock support, ensuring that Nigerian businesses have constant access to cybersecurity expertise. This support extends beyond incident response to include proactive advice, best practices, and security awareness training. Such guidance helps organizations develop robust security policies, implement effective security controls, and educate their employees about potential risks, thereby strengthening their overall security posture.

Furthermore, the ZORACOM NSOC Centre plays a vital role in compliance management. It assists businesses in meeting regulatory requirements and industry standards related to data protection and cybersecurity. This is particularly crucial for sectors such as finance, healthcare, and telecommunications, where compliance is highly regulated and non-compliance can result in severe penalties. The NSOC Centre helps Nigerian businesses navigate these complex compliance landscapes, ensuring they adhere to the necessary security protocols.

In summary, the ZORACOM NSOC Centre is of utmost importance to Nigerian businesses due to its role in enhancing cybersecurity, providing real-time monitoring and incident response, offering expert support, and ensuring compliance. By leveraging the services of the NSOC Centre, Nigerian businesses can safeguard their digital assets, mitigate cyber threats, and foster a secure environment that enables growth, innovation, and sustained success in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

NISS Seeks Collaboration with NCC to Improve National Security

NISS Seeks Collaboration with NCC to Improve National Security

 

National Institute of Security Studies (NISS) has engaged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to advance strategic collaboration that would enhance the application of Information and Communication Technology (ICTs) towards improving national security.

Speaking during a visit to the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta at the NCC’s Head Office in Abuja recently, the Institute’s Director, Research Estimates and Library Services, Dr. Adegboyega Karim said the visit was on a fact-finding mission to enrich ongoing research that focuses on globalization and regional integration for sustainable development in Africa.
Karim led to the Commission a team delegation of Executive Intelligence Management Course Sixteen Participants (EIM16), a study group with representations from various security agencies under the auspices of NISS, typically senior officers in security agencies, including the military, police, intelligence services, and other relevant agencies.

He noted that the Commission has made giant strides advancing the course of digital economy development in Nigeria, and that its regulatory processes provide a good opportunity for the collaboration to enable the group to research further into matters regarding telecommunications and national security.

Director, Special Duties of the Commission, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, who received the team on behalf of Danbatta, affirmed the readiness of the Commission to collaborate with the Institute and, indeed, any private and public institution that is focused on national development.

Reiterating on the advancements made in ICTs, Adinde said it is within this context that the Commission continued to promote the deployment of robust digital infrastructure capable of supporting and improving the security of lives and property.

“As a way of consolidating on the tremendous successes that had been recorded in the telecoms industry through effective regulatory regime emplaced by the Commission, the Federal Government has formulated a number of policies such as the Nigerian National Broadband Plan (NNBP) and the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), among others, which serve as a compass for our efforts at building a resilient digital economy that supports security,” he said.

Adinde enlightened the visiting delegation on NCC’s efforts towards ensuring adequate protection for telecoms facilities, across the nooks and crannies of the country where it is treated as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), the building of Emergency Communications Centres (ECCs) across states and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as well as series of collaborations with relevant agencies to ensure effective connectivity to individuals and institutions.

FG Flags Off Capacity Building for Police on Emotional Intelligence

FG Flags Off Capacity Building for Police on Emotional Intelligence

 

 

The Federal Government has flagged off the capacity building on emotional intelligence aimed at increasing self-awareness, self-management, social awareness and relationship management for improved service delivery by the rank and file of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

The opening ceremony of the One – Day Sensitization Workshop and Capacity Building was graced by the Minister of Police Affairs, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi ((Dr) at the Murtala Nyako Multi-Purpose Hall in Yola, Adamawa State.

The Minister in his speech pointed out that due to the demanding nature of Police duties, a Police Officer is exposed to stress and anxiety which could be transferred to the members of the public, resulting to infractions. He noted that near absence of self-management in some policemen has resulted to bringing the reputation of the entire force to odium and near disrepute.

“The good news is that the Ministry of Police Affairs is working closely with the Police Management to institutionalize service orientation among officers and men of the Nigeria Police, to deepen citizens’ trust, confidence and increased participation for robust human intelligence,” he stated.

“It is hoped that the workshop will assist in self – critique, in order to strengthen perceived weaknesses in emotional intelligence and improve police – citizens relationship for enhanced internal security management in Nigeria”.

Dingyadi stressed that the workshop has been scheduled to hold in other geopolitical zones in the coming days and weeks as part of the Ministry of Police Affairs’ efforts at reforming and re-orienting the members of the Nigeria Police, with special emphasis on junior officers. He explained that they constitute a vast majority, and interface more with the populace, upon which opinions are formed on the Nigeria Police in general.

The Minister reiterated that the capacity building workshop is coming at a crucial time in the nation’s history when Nigerians will once again, exercise their franchise in performing their civic responsibility, to elect leaders of their choice in the forthcoming general elections. He re-assured of government’s commitments to improving the welfare and working conditions of policemen across Nigeria. This, through enhanced emoluments, upgrading of barracks, working environments and provision of modern security enablers to tackle criminalities.

According to him, these laudable interventions by President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration in policing, deserves Nigerians’ ownership and reciprocity through cooperation with officers and men of the Nigeria Police. He inferred that to realize government’s desire for active citizens’ participation in policing endeavours, Nigerians must embrace global best practice through seeing the Nigeria Police as their own. This he observed will in effect, eliminate subjective apathy which has hitherto hindered efficient police service delivery in Nigeria.

In his goodwill message, the Commissioner of Police in the Adamawa Police Command, Sikiru Kayode Akande (CP) thanked the Ministry of Police Affairs for organizing the workshop to educate the participants in view of the forth coming 2023 General Elections. He avowed that the rank and file would be sensitized in key areas such as improvement in their attitude to work for effective service delivery, enhanced robust relationship between the community and the police and observance / respect for the human rights of citizens.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Director of Reforms and SERVICOM in the Ministry, Maryam Dalhatu Abdulmalik pointed out that the workshop on ‘attitudinal change for effective service delivery’ was part of the varied police reform activities which is poised to identify and fill the gaps that exist between Police Officers and citizens in the areas of unfriendliness and mistrust.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Security Alert: FG Assures of Safety, Security For All

Security Alert: FG Assures of Safety, Security For All

 

The Federal Government has assured that Nigeria’s security forces are doing everything possible to secure and protect Nigerians and foreigners living in
the country.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who gave the assurance in Abuja on Tuesday at a Ministerial Session at the ongoing UNESCO Global Media and Information Literacy Week, said the military and other security forces have been very proactive in tackling security issues.

“I can assure all that our military and other security agencies have continued to do everything possible to secure and protect Nigerians and foreigners living in
Nigeria. Terrorists have been hard hit and put on the run. Bandits have been decimated and scattered. Our country is safer today than at any time in recent times, thanks to the sacrifice of our men and women in uniform,” he said.

Alhaji Mohammed said while the government did not discountenance the fact that terrorists, bandits and their kind would always want to do whatever it takes to disrupt the nation’s peace, security and stability, Nigeria’s security forces are up to the task of protecting citizens and non-citizens alike.

“Nigerians too should continue to be alert but must not panic. Like I said in a recent statement, as far as insecurity is concerned, the worst is over for Nigeria,” he said.
While speaking on the topic “National Media and Information Literacy Frameworks, Sustaining Beyond Disinformation,” the Minister said the threat of disinformation to national and global peace and stability is glaring, as it undermines the trust by citizens in the system.

He said some media outlets and social media personalities are usually caught spreading unverified information on their platforms just for clickbait and the attendant monetary gain.

“Talking of clickbait, this may be what informed the spread of the supposed security alert issued recently by some foreign embassies in Nigeria. One would imagine that if indeed this kind of security alert was issued, it was for the attention of citizens of the issuing countries in Nigeria. Suddenly, this alert found its way into the media, both new and traditional, thus creating panic in the polity.

“Schools were shut. Businesses were closed. Travel plans were altered. Lives were disrupted. No one cared to find out about the authenticity of these alerts. They just published, got the benefit of massive clickbait and damned the consequences,” Alhaji Mohammed said.

He said the deliberate spread of fake news has become more prevalent with the ease in access to connectivity over the digital space since there is available and affordable technology/software that can be used to distort digital content (audio, visual and images) such as photoshop, deep fake and voiceover software, which are readily available as open source/free or paid apps on the Internet.

The Minister, however, said there is a ray of hope as the tech companies are increasingly involved in the development and deployment of technology to checkmate the spread of disinformation over their platforms, in addition to the availability of technology through text and reverse image search engines to decipher and verify such contents.

The session, which was moderated by the Assistant Director General, Communication and Information of UNESCO, Dr. Tawfik Jelassi, had the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy Dr. Ali Ibrahim Pantami, and the Minister of State for Education, Mr. Goodluck Opiah, as panelists.