Telecom
Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum #DRIF20 Opens Portal for Applications

Paradigm Initiative has opened applications for the 8th Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (#DRIF), billed to hold in April 21 – 23 2020.
The Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (#DRIF) has become an important platform for shaping conversations at the intersection of human rights, development and digital technologies in Africa.
The Forum has in the past welcomed digital rights activists, telecommunications industry professionals, government officials with oversight over telecommunications policy, members of the academia and many more. The venue of #DRIF20 will be communicated in due course.
Speaking about the upcoming event, Tope Ogundipe, Director of Programs, Paradigm Initiative, stated, ‘’From 2019, #DRIF has expanded conversations from only digital rights to now include digital inclusion themes.
“This broadening of the conversation ensures that the widest possible audience possible is co-opted into the conversations at the forum.
“Whether it’s affordable broadband access in Nigeria, or the rising tide of internet shutdowns in Africa, or the increase in the uptake of biometric and surveillance technology on the continent, or how mobile technology is shaping development in Africa, the expanded scope of conversations at #DRIF ensures that the most pressing issues are on the table, and that all voices are heard.’’
Rigobert Kenmogne, Program Officer, Digital Rights, Francophone Africa, Paradigm Initiative, noted, ‘’#DRIF20 affords ample space for conversations around digital rights and inclusion in East Africa.
“East Africa has been in the spotlight for developments in digital rights in Africa in recent years, particularly with Ethiopia regularly shutting down the internet, and with the high profile national identity scheme (Huduma) in Kenya. #DRIF20 will provide an important platform for civil society and other actors from these regions to collaborate on effective responses to these regional themes.”
He added further that ‘’the Francophone region of Africa has seen a lot of developments in recent years at the intersection of digital technology, human rights and development.
“For instance Chad, after many months of a social media black-out, recently restored social media access in what had been the longest national social media black-out in Africa. Developments in Francophone Africa will definitely be a point of focus at #DRIF20’’.
Ogundipe, added, ‘’#DRIF20 will feature conversations on some of the most important trends across all regions of Africa and beyond on the intersection of human rights, development and digital technologies.
“This builds on the success of #DRIF19 held in Lagos, Nigeria, which attracted over 300 delegates from 38 countries who deliberated in 26 sessions. #DRIF is a bilingual forum which caters for a diverse audience with translation services provided in English and French.
Applications to attend #DRIF20 can be made via http://bit.ly/DRIF2020Apply while side-session proposals can be made via http://bit.ly/DRIF2020Sessions.
Selected delegates and side-session proposal organizers will be contacted after the close of applications on December 31 2019.
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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