Telecom
Active Unregistered SIM Cards Again!
Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) needs no introduction as it remains one of the most vibrant government agencies since its establishment by an act of the parliament.
The Commission deserves every accolade, awards and/or commendations it has received in the recent past, especially in keeping faith with regulatory requirements in the telecoms sector.
NCC has scored major points in championing corporate governance, consumer protections drives; pursing agenda to attracting foreign investments, most importantly, carrying stakeholders along in its policy thrusts. The Commission has earned reputation as one of the most active telecoms regulators in Africa and competes favourably at the world stage.
But, two giants that have kept the NCC and telecoms network operators, in the boxing ring for a long time now are: unstable quality of service with the attendant issues like unsolicited SMS, voice call drops, data depilation, etc. The other factor which is even more fearsome is the unregistered SIM cards; a fight against illegality perpetuated by some individuals and companies to thwart the national security drives through SIM cards registration.
I am making reference to a Daily Trust report on Tuesday this week that some mobile phone SIM card traders in Nigeria are still selling lines without registering the supposed owners, fuelling telecommunications violations and criminality.
At a time like this, all hands ought to be on deck to fight the growing rate of criminals: terrorists, kidnappers, militants, armed robbers, cyber traitors; some are still playing to the gallery through shoddy business deals. Apparently, unhealthy competition leads to this kind of grubby practice, because we seem to care more about “how many subscribers are on my network” as against “how satisfied my current subscribers are”.
Yes, there are technologies today to detect one’s location once the Sim is ‘alive’ and the mobile phone is switched on, however, to reflect a security conscious nation and an industry with an understanding of the ‘dynamites of data’ in its possession, the sim cards registration process must not be sabotaged. After all, billions of Naira was appropriated to pursue this project.
Though, Mr Sonny Aragba-Akpore, NCC’s head of media said it was not true that unregistered SIM cards were sold in the open market, because the Commission had already warned operators of severe sanctions if any of them was found contravening the SIM registration directive.
Well, information may still be scanty as to how the vendors secure the lines, but like Deolu Ogunbanjo, president, National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) said NCC and Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) members especially the ‘big four’- MTN, Glo, Airtel and Etisalat must as a matter or urgency investigate their agents and sanction them appropriately.
Remember, MTN Group is still nursing the wound of a mega fine imposed on it by NCC on MTN Nigeria for failure to disconnect over five million subscribers on its network.
In many countries around the world, consumers can buy prepaid or ‘Pay As You Go’ mobile SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards from retail outlets usually with little or no paperwork involved. Unlike pay-monthly mobile SIM contracts, the activation and use of prepaid SIM cards does not always require the customer to register or present any identity documents at the point of sale. In countries where prepaid SIM registration is not required, mobile users can access mobile services more easily, but can also voluntarily register with their mobile network operator (MNO) in order to use additional services that require identification, such as mobile banking.
User education/campaign is key also. Therefore, NCC and the operators should not relent on stead; for instance a whitepaper published by the GSMA in November 2013 on “The Mandatory Registration of Prepaid SIM Card Users”, clearly it was observed through an analysis of case studies and media reports in countries where mandatory registration of prepaid SIM users has been introduced shows that such a policy may also lead to unintended negative consequences including: “loss of access to communications services when mobile users’ SIM cards are deactivated (sometimes without warning) due to failure to register by a required deadline.
Such failure may be caused by factors beyond users’ control, for example the fact that they live far from a registration centre, lack any formal identity documents, or were not made aware of the need to register and the relevant deadline; “Restriction of consumers’ accessibility to mobile communications by limiting the locations where new prepaid SIM cards can be purchased”.
Like the whitepaper also observed, NCC and operators must not keep security operatives at arms-length because of expected emergence of black markets for “fraudulently-registered or stolen SIM cards”.
Why user education is critical is that in today’s world of data insecurity, most Nigerians/mobile users are concerned over their privacy and freedom of speech, particularly in the absence of any national laws on data protection.
So before another round of sanctions with heavy finds and the disproportionate cost burdens begin to roll on mobile operators, which could impact their ability to invest in new innovative services and in network infrastructure, particularly in remote and rural areas, lets curb these odd incidences to the barest minimum.
CFA is the founder of www.techsmart.ngand co-producer/presenter of Tech Trends on Channels TV
Telecom
CerAwards 2026: CeraVe & Konga Health Reward Top Creators with Paris Trips and N12M in Prizes
The intersection of dermatological excellence, technological innovation, and creative storytelling reached a fever pitch on April 23rd as the inaugural Cerawards Africa 2026 took centre stage in Lagos. Orchestrated by CeraVe, the world’s #1 dermatologist-recommended skincare brand, in an exclusive strategic partnership with Konga Health, Nigeria’s leading distributor of premium skincare and beauty products, the event celebrated emerging creators with CeraVe-sponsored trips to Paris, N2 Million and other amazing prizes.
CerAwards 2026
Making its debut on the African continent, CerAwards 2026 chose Nigeria as its first destination, a decision made possible through the direct result of the robust infrastructure and market trust built by Konga Health. This partnership between both brands reflects a shared commitment to driving accessibility, authenticity, and innovation within the beauty industry, while placing Nigerian talent firmly on the global stage.
Hosted by renowned media personality Bisola Aiyeola, the event delivered a seamless blend of entertainment and industry relevance. From the outset, it was clear that CerAwards was not just another awards ceremony, but a platform designed to reshape narratives, connecting skincare, storytelling, and commerce in a uniquely Nigerian way. The gala brought together the beauty industry elites, Nollywood stars, top influencers, and a new generation of digital entrepreneurs, all united by a singular vision of excellence.
Delivering his address at the event, Chairman of Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh, emphasised the strategic importance of innovation and excellence in building sustainable industries.
“What we are witnessing today is the convergence of technology, creativity, and commerce,” he stated. “At Konga, and particularly through Konga Health, we are committed to pursuing excellence in everything we do, ensuring that Nigerians have access to genuine products while also creating platforms that drive economic value. Technology remains the backbone of modern economies, and initiatives like CerAwards demonstrate how it can unlock new opportunities for growth, especially among young creators.”
CerAwards 2026 attracted over 800 entries from content creators across the country, reflecting the depth of talent within Nigeria’s digital and creative economy. Following a rigorous screening process by a distinguished jury comprising Funke Akindele (Nollywood actress, producer and director), Uzor Arukwe (award-winning actor), Anais Routhiau (CeraVe Africa), Ijeoma Balogun (CEO, Redrick PR), Subuola Oyeleye (Founder, Beauty Hut Africa), and Yvonne Enwerem (VP, Konga Health), the top 64 entries were shortlisted.
The competition, which recorded over 65,000 public votes, eventually expanded beyond its initial structure to accommodate 28 finalists, underscoring the exceptional quality of submissions.
Participants competed across six categories: Educational, Original, Viral Video, Cleansing, Body Moisturising, and Let’s Get Creative. The award categories spanned the full spectrum of the CeraVe experience, from educational content to viral creativity.
The awards produced six grand prize winners. Three exceptional creators won the ultimate “CeraTicket,” an all-expenses-paid trip to France to experience the heart of global beauty: Perpetua Ugwuegede (Body Moisturising), Boluwatife Lawal (Educational Content), and Iyanuoluwa Sowemimo (Let’s Get Creative). Three winners received N2 Million worth of premium content creation gear: Beryl Inegbenose (Original Content), Precious Ernest (Cleansing), and Joseph Shaka Momodu (Viral Video). The 1st runners-up were each awarded N1 million, while several other participants walked away with N500,000 in consolation prizes and gifts.
The event also featured special Nollywood Recognition Awards presented to Funke Akindele and Uzor Arukwe for their outstanding contributions to the film industry, further cementing the intersection between beauty, storytelling, and entertainment.
Beyond the awards, CerAwards 2026 represents a broader shift in how beauty brands engage with consumers in Africa. Through its partnership with Konga Health, CeraVe has tapped into a robust commerce and distribution ecosystem that prioritises authenticity, accessibility, and customer trust.
For Konga Health, the success of CerAwards reinforces its position as a trusted gateway for premium beauty brands and a champion of Nigerian creativity. As the platform continues to expand its offerings and partnerships, it remains focused on delivering value that resonates with modern consumers.
Under the leadership of Yvonne Enwerem, VP of Konga Health, the platform has become the exclusive custodian of CeraVe’s brand integrity in the region, ensuring that consumers are protected from counterfeits while enjoying seamless access to world-class dermatological solutions.
Ultimately, CerAwards 2026 has not only celebrated excellence, it has redefined what is possible when global brands and local platforms work together.
Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) has launched a new stand-alone messaging app on iOS devices, called XChat.
Elon Musk
This app will help users connect their existing X contacts for calling, chatting, and sharing files. This move shows how Musk’s previous idea of creating a single ‘everything app’ seems to shift to a different strategy now.
This newly launched app comes with features such as audio and video calling, text messaging, group chats, and file sharing.
Moreover, it features privacy-focused tools like disappearing messages, the option to delete and edit messages for everyone, and a feature that blocks screenshots.
Looking at these features, the XChat seems to take on WhatsApp and Messenger.
However, the tech firm said that the app has no tracking or ads.
In terms of privacy, X claimed that the instant messaging app is end-to-end encrypted and comes with a PIN.
This app is currently available to iOS users only, and more updates are expected in the near future, as teased by Benji Taylor, the X’s lead designer. The launch of this app reflects a shift in Musk’s strategy about turning X into an ‘everything’ app that will include payments, shopping, messaging, and more combined in one place.
However, the focus of xAI seems to be different now as the company seems to be developing several different apps instead of combining everything into one.
This approach may help X to reach users through their various services rather than a single platform.
While XChat focused on messaging currently, the tech firm is also reportedly testing a separate payments system, which is not available to the public so far.
More features and updates to the instant messaging app are likely to be arriving in the coming months as X continues to grow its ecosystem with more apps.
Technology Company, Globacom has unveiled two vibrant television commercials, “Road Trip” and “Department of Imagination,” reinforcing the telecommunications giant’s dedication to providing seamless, reliable connectivity for every lifestyle.
These engaging campaigns illustrate how Glo remains an essential partner in both our daily routines and our boldest future aspirations.
“Road Trip” captures a relatable family adventure filled with laughter and authentic moments. The story follows Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi as she experiences the frustration of poor signal—only to find that switching to Glo transforms the experience instantly. Whether it’s navigation, downloading content, or staying entertained, the difference is clear with Glo, which ensures you stay connected no matter where the road takes you.
Starring alongside Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi, the commercial featured Bolaji Ogunmola and others and their combination brought the best out of the TVC.
Users can easily access data plans by dialling *312#, ensuring smooth, uninterrupted service on the go.
Department, on the other hand transports viewers to a futuristic landscape where technology bridges the gap between creativity and reality.
Guided by the renowned Richard Mofe-Damijo (The Professor), the story explores how powerful ideas turn into extraordinary experiences. It showcases a smarter, more dynamic world—from real-time gaming to advanced culinary processes demonstrated by Hilda Baci and creative tech integration by Bamike Adenibuyan (Bam-Bam).
The unique feature of the story is each scene serving as a testament to how Glo is actively shaping a future where technological possibilities are infinite.
The Glo’s latest commercials carry a unified, powerful message: The future is here, and it is powered by Glo.
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