Connect with us

Telecom

Double Honours, as NCC, Danbatta Win Security & Emergency Management Awards

Published

on

Kindly share this post

It was double honours for the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Thursday as the Commission and its Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, won two separate awards.

While the Commission received the “Corporate Social Responsibility Award” in security and emergency management, the Executive Vice Chairman beat other nominees to clinch the “Goodwill Ambassador Award” in security and emergency management.

The awards were given in recognition of Commission’s efforts in ensuring the availability of infrastructure to safeguard the security of lives and property of citizens and residents of Nigeria through the execution of Emergency Communication Centres (ECCs) projects in each state of the Federation.

The awards were presented at Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja, at the First Security and Emergency Management Awards (SAEMA 2019), hosted by the Emergency Digest, a publication of Image Merchants Promotion Limited, in conjunction with the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC).

At the event, which was attended by many stakeholders, particularly agencies in the security governance sector, the NCC and Danbatta beat other contenders and nominees in their respective categories – the Awards were in 18 categories.

Receiving the two awards on behalf of the Commission and the EVC, Chukwuma Azikiwe, Head, Emergency Communications project, NCC, who also delivered the EVC keynote address at the forum, said the “Commission and Prof. Danbatta considered it a great honour to be recognised for the concerted efforts the NCC family is making in line with the provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act to strengthen security of lives and property in the country.”

Danbatta said on assumption of office in 2015, he recognised the need to give focus on President Muhammadu Buhari’s agenda to improve the economy, curb corruption and improve the security of lives and property.

“This explains why the Danbatta-led Management placed the project in top priority and is accelerating the execution of the Emergency Communications Centres (ECCs) in each state of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). So far, 18 ECCs have been completed and operational in 17 states and the Federal Capital Territory,” he said.

Earlier, while delivering his keynote address on “Leveraging Emergency Communication Centre for National Security”, Danbatta said that discussions about security situation are a topical issue and of national importance, which every citizen of Nigeria is conscious of, because security matters affect all citizens.

For this reason, Danbatta said NCC, in keeping with the provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003 and the support of the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Pantami, revved up efforts to ensure the completion and opening of ECCs in each state with a national emergency number ‘112’.

The EVC explained that NCC is collaborating with all relevant stakeholders in line with its 8-Point Agenda to ensure effective and efficient management of the ECC and especially key service delivery components of the centres, to ensure adoption and usage of the 112 number by the public and appropriate agencies, enhance the discharge of the statutory responsibility of the respective response agency in the country, and reduce emergency response time.

Danbatta called for increased synergy between the Federal Government, state governments, security and response agencies to fully actualize the benefits of the Centres towards enhancing national security and safety to the benefit of the public. He also restated NCC’s commitment to leverage technology to improve national security.

Mohammed Audu-Bida, Chairman of Panel of Jury for SAEMA 2019, said nominations for winners were based on verifiable outstanding performance and track record of excellence in the category for which the nomination was made.

According to him, a total of 254 entries were received for all the categories, out of which 136 nominees qualified for the competition. Thereafter, 54 finalists were selected by the jury from which 18 winners of the 18 categories emerged.

The Awards is instituted to recognise remarkable and invaluable contributions to the security, emergency management and peace development by individuals, groups and relevant stakeholders. It recognises gallantry, rescue efforts, safety measures, teamwork and outstanding contributions to security and emergency management in Nigeria.

 


Kindly share this post

Ugo Onwuaso is an ICT enthusiast. He believes technology should be used for general good. He holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from the Lagos state University. Dear Reader, Your support matters. But we believe that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. That is why, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and finance and how they affect lives. Our incisive and analytical view of how technology news affects the daily life help individuals and organizations make up their minds. Quality journalism costs money. Today, we're asking that you support us to do more. Kindly support our effort to deliver technology and finance journalism to everyone in the world. Donate as little as N1,000. Bank transfers can be made to: UBA Plc 1017156876 Communication Week Media Ltd

Telecom

MoMo PSB Brings Relief to UNILAG Students with Ultra-Cheap Bus Fares

Published

on

Kindly share this post

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 Brings Relief to UNILAG Students with Ultra-Cheap Bus Fares

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.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Telecom

MTN Nigeria Launches Unlimited 5G Broadband Plans to Boost Digital Inclusion

Published

on

Kindly share this post

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 Launches Unlimited 5G Broadband Plans to Boost Digital Inclusion

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.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Telecom

Airtel Africa Foundation Opens Undergraduate Scholarship Portal in Nigeria

Published

on

Kindly share this post

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.

 


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Trending