Nigerian telecom operators are considering a shift from national to regional tariff plans, to address operational challenges across different states. This move aims to factor in the varying operational costs and difficulties faced in each region. The proposal comes on the heels of a recent 50% tariff increase approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to help operators manage rising operational costs. Speaking at the Policy Implementation Assisted Forum (PIAFo) in Lagos, industry leaders emphasized the need for tariffs that reflect the ease of doing business in each state. Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), noted that states with higher operational costs should be charged accordingly, while those with better business environments could enjoy lower tariffs. The NCC’s recent tariff hike, which affects calls, SMS, and data rates, is intended to bridge the gap between operational costs and current tariffs. However, consumer groups have criticized the increase, citing inadequate consultation and potential financial burdens on subscribers. Any regional tariff adjustments would require NCC approval, ensuring that consumer interests are protected while supporting industry sustainability.
Visa expands footprint in Nigeria with groundbreaking data centre project
Visa Inc., the global leader in payment card services, has unveiled plans to build a state-of-the-art data centre in Nigeria. The announcement was made during a meeting between Visa’s Regional President for Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Andrew Torre, and Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The planned data centre is part of Visa’s broader investment strategy in Nigeria, to introduce advanced technologies that will further strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading fintech hub in Africa.Visa has been actively investing in Nigeria’s digital transformation. The company recently partnered with MoniePoint to enhance digital payment solutions and invested $200 million in Interswitch to improve digital transactions. Additionally, Visa has collaborated with ThriveAgric to support smallholder farmers and promote food security. Andrew Torre reaffirmed Visa’s commitment to the Nigerian market, stating, “Visa has been making investments and will continue to make these investments in Nigeria.” The new data centre is expected to play a pivotal role in driving innovation within the country’s growing digital economy. Vice President Kashim Shettima welcomed Visa’s investment plans, emphasizing the government’s dedication to fostering partnerships that drive economic growth. He highlighted the administration’s focus on modernizing agriculture and leveraging technology as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-point agenda. “Nigeria is where the action is,” Shettima said. “Of the ten fintechs in Africa, about eight are in Nigeria. Agriculture is key to our agenda, and we must invest in technology and modernization.” Visa’s announcement comes at a time when Nigeria is making significant strides toward enhancing its digital infrastructure. In October 2024, the government signed an agreement with Ericsson to expand 5G connectivity across the country. This collaboration aims to improve internet access and drive adoption of fintech and artificial intelligence technologies. By establishing a local data centre, Visa is not only reinforcing its commitment to Nigeria but also aligning with the country’s vision of becoming a leading player in Africa’s digital economy.The establishment of Visa’s data centre is expected to create jobs, attract further investments, and enhance digital payment systems across the country.
NITDA unveils strategy to bridge funding gap for female startup founders in Nigeria.
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has launched the National Gender Digital Inclusion Strategy (NGDIS), to address the existing gender digital divide. This initiative aims to bridge the funding gap for female startup founders in Nigeria by providing access to funding, mentorship, and technical assistance. The strategy was presented at the United Nations 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to fostering an inclusive digital economy. The NGDIS focuses on five core pillars: digital literacy, innovation and entrepreneurship support, online safety, gender-responsive policies, and infrastructure expansion. It seeks to ensure at least 40% female participation in national digital training initiatives and leverage the Nigeria Startup Act to enhance financial support for women in tech. Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman, emphasized the urgent need to address gender disparities in digital access, noting that 68% of Nigerian women lack smartphones, limiting their access to online services and economic opportunities. The strategy aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to create an inclusive digital future.
9mobile denies shutdown rumors, assures customers of enhanced ervices
Nigerian telecommunications company 9mobile has categorically denied rumors suggesting that it has ceased operations. The rumors emerged amid persistent complaints about poor service quality and difficulties with mobile number portability (MNP), which allows users to switch networks without changing their phone numbers. 9mobile acknowledged that some customers have faced challenges with MNP but emphasized that it has never restricted porting to other networks. The company attributed these issues to temporary technical challenges, which it claims have largely been resolved. Minor delays may still occur due to ongoing system optimizations, but 9mobile is actively working to ensure a smoother experience for all users. Despite these challenges, 9mobile is investing in network upgrades and service expansion, aiming to improve overall service quality and provide reliable connectivity for individuals, businesses, and communities. Subscribers have been vocal about their frustrations, with many calling on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to intervene. Despite these challenges, 9mobile expressed confidence in its progress and reaffirmed its dedication to providing exceptional service to its customers. In recent months, 9mobile has faced significant service disruptions, including a nationwide outage and issues with porting requests, leading to a decline in its subscriber base. However, the company remains optimistic about its future, citing ongoing investments as key to improving services and retaining customer loyalty.
Nigeria and Canada strengthen aviation ties with code-sharing agreement
Nigeria and Canada have signed a landmark code-sharing agreement under a new Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA). The agreement, signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in Abuja, allows airlines from both countries to collaborate on flight routes. This partnership enables passengers to book seamless itineraries with single tickets across multiple airlines, simplifying travel between Nigeria and Canada. Keyamo emphasized that the agreement is not a full BASA but a code-sharing arrangement, which will be facilitated by designating specific airlines on both sides. The Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Pasquale Salvaggio, highlighted the importance of code-sharing in offering passengers a seamless journey on one ticket, enhancing bilateral relations and commercial ties between the two countries. This move is expected to expand travel options, streamline logistics, and make air travel more accessible. It highlights Nigeria’s strong economic partnership with Canada, and is poised to benefit both nations by providing greater access to various cities without the need for additional flights.
Access Bank to celebrate Power of 100 awardees at International Women’s Day Conference
Access Bank, one of Africa’s leading financial institutions, has announced plans to honor the distinguished recipients of its “Power of 100” awards at its upcoming International Women’s Day (IWD) Conference. The event, scheduled for March 28, 2025, will celebrate the achievements of exceptional women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and impact across various industries in Africa. The “Power of 100” initiative is part of Access Bank’s broader commitment to fostering gender equality and empowering women who are driving change, breaking barriers, and creating opportunities for others. This year’s conference aligns with the International Women’s Day theme: Accelerate Action, emphasizing the importance of advancing gender inclusion and leadership across the continent. Speaking on the upcoming event, Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director at Access Bank, expressed pride in the honorees:“At Access Bank, we believe in the power of women to drive progress and transformation in society. The Power of 100 awardees represent a diverse group of trailblazers whose resilience, passion, and dedication inspire the next generation of female leaders. We are honored to celebrate them at this year’s International Women’s Day Conference.” The conference will feature keynote speeches by industry leaders, insightful panel discussions, networking opportunities, and an awards ceremony to recognize the achievements of these remarkable women. Nene Kunle-Ogunlusi, Head of Women Banking at Access Bank, highlighted the event’s role as a platform for dialogue on gender inclusion and economic empowerment:“The Access Bank International Women’s Day event will serve as a platform to encourage discussions around leadership and economic empowerment for women. Through our flagship ‘W’ Initiative, we remain committed to championing financial inclusion, capacity building, and business growth for women across Africa.” Access Bank Plc operates over 700 branches across Africa, Europe, and Asia and is recognized for its commitment to diversity, innovation, and sustainability. Through initiatives like the “W” program, the bank continues to empower individuals and businesses while promoting social impact across its markets.