Telecom
STEP, StartupSouth9 Partner to Power Up South-South/South-East Startup Ecosystem

STEP, a leading initiative dedicated to empowering startups across Nigeria, partnered with StartupSouth9 to host the STEP x StartupSouth9 Event on October 3rd to 4th, 2024, in Port Harcourt.

Chisom Egwuatu, Project Lead for STEP, flanked by other members of the team
This collaboration aimed to strengthen the South-South and South-East regions by connecting startups with essential resources, including growth strategies, funding opportunities, and mentorship.
The event reached over 2,500 people, bringing together more than 70 speakers who took the main stage virtually and physically, participated in panel discussions, and led side sessions.
Over 15 workshops provided valuable insights and actionable strategies for entrepreneurs.
Notable participants included Jane Egerton-Idehen, MD of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited; Arthur Uche, CEO of Beyond Clothing; Abayomi Adebanjo, Regional Head at Main One; Ugochukwu Aronu, founder of Xend Finance; Yen Choi, CFO of Chiplab, Chisom Egwuatu, Project Lead of STEP and Adeshina Adewumi, founder of Trade Lenda, among others.
Oyinkan Akintola-Bello, Country Director of the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, attended virtually and took the main stage to share valuable insights into Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
In her speech to an audience of over 1,000, she encouraged attendees to leverage the knowledge and expertise available at the event, emphasizing the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub’s commitment to supporting the growth of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem through the Startup and Talent Enhancement Program – STEP.
Oyinkan highlighted key aspects of their digital strategy, which focuses on collaboration with government and private sectors to improve infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, reduce barriers to digital innovation, develop a skilled digital workforce, and strengthen policy and regulatory frameworks.
The Startup and Talent Enhancement Program (STEP), a partnership between the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub and IDEA Africa, is a key initiative aimed at bridging the gap between startups seeking talent and skilled professionals looking for opportunities.
The event featured a fireside chat on “Build for Growth: Growth Hacking Strategies for Startups,” anchored by Chisom Egwuatu, the Project Lead for STEP, and Adeshina Adewumi, CEO of Trade Lenda.
This session provided invaluable strategies for startups aiming to leverage growth hacking techniques to achieve scalability.
A highlight of the event was a panel discussion titled “Mapping Growth: Insights and Strategies for Building a Thriving Innovation Ecosystem.” Chisom Egwuatu discussed the roles of government, startups, Investors, established organizations, talent, mentors, research institutions and innovation hubs, in building a robust innovation ecosystem in Nigeria and Africa.
Beyond knowledge sharing, the event fostered robust networking opportunities, enabling startups to connect with investors, industry professionals, and fellow entrepreneurs.
These interactions are expected to lead to fruitful partnerships, mentorship arrangements, and potential funding opportunities, helping startups in the region overcome key challenges and unlock new growth pathways.
Telecom
MoMo PSB Brings Relief to UNILAG Students with Ultra-Cheap Bus Fares

MoMo Payment Service Bank (MoMo PSB), a fintech subsidiary of MTN Nigeria, has announced a partnership with Ogata Electric Vehicles to provide subsidised bus rides of ₦10 per fare to students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

MoMo PSB
The initiative, unveiled on Thursday in Lagos, is aimed at easing transportation costs for young Nigerians, particularly students, as part of MoMo PSB’s broader commitment to financial inclusion and digital accessibility.
MoMo PSB, which provides millions of Nigerians with secure financial services including transfers, savings, card services, bill payments and wallet solutions, said the transport subsidy reflects its mission to improve everyday life by reducing the cost of essential services.
The company explained that the partnership with Ogata Electric Vehicles would not only make commuting more affordable for students but also promote sustainable mobility through the use of electric buses.
Officials of MoMo PSB noted that the initiative is designed to bring “good cheer” to the UNILAG community, ensuring students can access safe, reliable and cost-effective transport while focusing on their education.
Telecom
MTN Nigeria Launches Unlimited 5G Broadband Plans to Boost Digital Inclusion

MTN Nigeria has launched its Unlimited Broadband Data plans powered by 5G technology, a move the telecoms giant says will tackle long-standing challenges of capped data limits, high costs and unstable connectivity faced by internet users across the country.

MTN Nigeria
Egerton Idehen, Chief Broadband Officer of MTN Nigeria, said the new product was designed to support high-demand users including streamers, gamers, households and businesses requiring uninterrupted connectivity.
“We’re building a broadband experience for everyday life. For content creators, remote workers, gamers, students and households. Our focus is on speed, reliability, low latency, and affordability.
“Broadband is designed to deliver seamless connectivity that empowers Nigerians to thrive in the digital economy,” Idehen said.
The plans, available in speed-based variants of 50Mbps and 100Mbps, promise lightning-fast speeds and ultra-low latency to address issues of lag and buffering. MTN said the packages would also provide affordable and flexible options to cater to diverse economic segments.
New customers who purchase a 5G router will enjoy a welcome bonus of unlimited data for the first 30 days, allowing them to experience the service before committing to long-term use.
The company explained that the initiative was part of its broader commitment to digital inclusion, enabling Nigerians to access stable connections for virtual meetings, large file transfers, online learning, high-definition streaming and professional gaming.
Customers can subscribe to the Unlimited Broadband Plans by dialling 4611#, using the MyMTN app, MTN eShop, MTN website, or visiting authorised retail outlets nationwide.
Telecom
Airtel Africa Foundation Opens Undergraduate Scholarship Portal in Nigeria

The Airtel Africa Foundation has opened applications for its Undergraduate Tech Scholarship in Nigeria, inviting first-year university students with strong academic potential to apply for financial support aimed at accelerating their studies in technology and related fields.

The scheme provides full tuition, accommodation support, and essential study materials for eligible 100-level students. It forms part of the Foundation’s F.E.E.D. agenda, which promotes Financial Empowerment, Education, Environmental Protection, and Digital Inclusion, with a focus on creating pathways for talented young people who face financial barriers.
Airtel Nigeria CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, encouraged students to take advantage of the opportunity. He noted that, “Education is one of the most powerful tools for national development,” adding that “as an organisation, Airtel is determined to build a platform for aspiring young Nigerians to learn, innovate and lead in the country’s expanding technology landscape.”
Applications are open to students pursuing courses such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, and other ICT-related disciplines at participating universities: University of Lagos, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Benin, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ilorin, and Tai Solarin University of Education.
Dr Segun Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, said the scholarship demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to nurturing Africa’s next generation of digital leaders. “Young Africans are brimming with talent and ambition. What many need is a fair chance to pursue their education without financial pressure. This scholarship reflects our belief that investing in their growth will strengthen communities, empower families, and expand the continent’s digital future,” he said.
Applicants must be enrolled in 100-level, have scored at least 230 in JAMB, and hold a minimum of five credits in WAEC, including English and Mathematics, in a single sitting. Required documents include Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) results, university admission letter, West African Examination Council (WAEC) certificate, student identity card, and academic transcript or university results.
The Foundation encourages qualified students across the listed institutions to apply and position themselves for a stronger start in the technology sector. Applications can be submitted at candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/airtelfellowship2025.
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