Telecom
ALTON Says Tariff Review Crucial to Prevent Catastrophe in Telecoms Sector

Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has asked the Federal Government to consider an upward review in the costs of voice calls, Short Message Services (SMS), and data in the country.

Gbenga Adebayo, chairman, ALTON
The body insisted that the action has become important to prevent the nation’s telecommunication sector from slipping into a catastrophic situation.
Gbenga Adebayo, chairman, ALTON, stated this g on Monday on behalf of the group during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily.
“We just expect that fairness will prevail and all those who are responsible will have a critical look at what we face so that we can have a sustainable industry,” he said. “We must warn that there is no industry that is immune to failure.
“And for us to avoid any catastrophic situation in our sector, we are saying let’s look at the reality of our pricing; let’s look at the challenges that we face, let government itself do something in order to mitigate against having this kind of explosion.”
Data Don’t Lie
Amid calls for a price hike by the telecoms operators, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has given an assurance that it would resist such move by the companies without adequate approval.
But the group stressed that rather than considering the plight of its members, the government went on to introduce an additional five per cent excise said to be effective from June 1.
Adebayo, in his reaction, lamented that telecoms operators were billed to pay over 30 levies and taxes to the government at different levels.
He advised the government to look at the challenges being faced by the telecoms operators and intervene by way of using regulatory instruments to address the issues raised.
According to the ALTON chief, the telecoms sector should be declared a national critical infrastructure to make it as important as the oil and gas sector.
“We are confronted with different economic realities from what we were facing the last time (when) we were on television, and the fact remains today that if you look at the economic indices, the current pricing regime is not sustainable and what we have done is to approach our regulator to present a case to them to say this is where we are as an industry, and we did make some recommendations on what to should be done,” he said.
“Considering the current global energy prices, considering the challenges that we face in our operating environment, and if we are not getting any regulatory intervention, it will be a bit difficult to sustain the industry with the current pricing regime that we have.
“Even the National Bureau of Statistics itself has released information about the trend of inflation in the country since the beginning of the year till now; so, the data will be there to speak for itself.”
Telecom
ATICEN Commends NLC for Suspending Strike over Telecoms Tariff Hike

Comrade Adede John Williams, president of the Association of Telecommunications, Information Technology, Cable Satellite Network Operators and Allied Services Employers’of Nigeria (ATICEN), has commended the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for suspending the planned strike over tariff hike by Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for the Nigeria telecommunications operators.

Joe Ajaero, president, NLC,
He called on members and the general assembly of the Nigeria Labour Congress, telecoms subscribers, stakeholders, and all interested parties to see the need to accept the reality of things as they unfold.
He emphasised that rising inflation, energy costs, operational costs, and currency devaluation challenges faced in the country were the key reasons for the recent tariff hike, adding that the costs of importing telecommunications equipment, the maintenance support system, and unreliable electricity supply had affected the profits supposedly accrued to telecoms operators.
He, therefore, urged the telecommunications subscribers and Nigerians to always have the interests of the services of telecommunications operators at heart for the industry’s sustainability, as the industry regulator is always championing the consumer’s protection rights.
“So, it is important to know that the recent increase in telecoms tariff was approved according to its regulatory power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA) to regulate and approve tariff rates and charges for telecommunications operators operating in Nigeria,” he said.
Williams equally acknowledged Dr. Bosun Tijani, minister, Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and Dr. Aminu Maina, EVC/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), for taking a proactive step in managing the NLC’s planned strike.
Telecom
Airtel Nigeria’s Communications Director Champions Workforce Transformation at PAU Career Fair

Femi Adeniran, the Director of Corporate Communications and CSR Airtel Nigeria, has called for a human centric approach to workforce transformation in the face of rapid technological advancements.
Mr. Adeniran made this statement during a panel discussion titled ‘Building a Workforce for the New Era: Talent, Technology, and Transformation’ at the 2025 Career Fair, hosted by Pan-Atlantic University on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at the University main campus.
He stressed the importance of organizations prioritizing clear corporate communication, continuous learning, and reverse mentoring to foster a resilient, future ready workforce, highlighting how crucial corporate communication is in enhancing workforce agility and driving innovation.
“Organizations that master transparent and engaging communication are better positioned to integrate digital tools seamlessly while maintaining a strong human connection. It’s not just about technology; it’s about empowering people through effective engagement, and purpose-driven messaging.” He said.
Mr. Adeniran also urged organizations to invest in upskilling and reskilling their workforce, advocating for a proactive approach to talent development that ensures employees remain relevant amid industry shifts.
He highlighted Airtel Nigeria’s commitment to nurturing talent through initiatives such as the “Open Talent Economy” an ambitious initiative aimed at preparing undergraduates for the evolving demands of the modern workforce.
The panel discussion brought together leading industry experts, including Olabisi Omoregie (Head, Corporate Services, Fast Credit Ltd) and Abike Wesey (General Manager, HR & Admin, Mutual Benefits Assurance).
Moderated by Dr. Ruth Karachi Benson Oji, the discussion delved into the impact of artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation on employment. Panelists emphasized that while technology is reshaping job functions, human adaptability, emotional intelligence, and strategic foresight are still crucial.
The career fair reaffirms Pan-Atlantic University’s commitment to fostering meaningful engagements that bridge the gap between academia and industry. The institution remains dedicated to empowering students and professionals with the insights needed to excel in the evolving job market.
Telecom
MTN mPulse Inspires Excellence at Glorious Covenant School in Rivers State

MTN Nigeria’s mPulse team recently visited Glorious Covenant School in Rivers State to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Ikenna Ikechukwu, the 2024 MTN mPulse Spelling Bee champion.
The event, held on January 22, 2025, was not just a recognition of Ikenna’s hard work but a call to students everywhere to aim higher and reach for greatness.
The event highlighted the transformative power of education and innovation. At the 2024 Spelling Bee Grand Finale in November in Lagos, Ikenna emerged the Spelling Bee champion title, and was awarded ₦5 million scholarship, a laptop, a smartphone, and an mPulse goody bag.
His win also extended to his school, which received 10 laptops and 10 MTN 5G routers, underscoring MTN’s commitment to enhancing digital education and closing the digital divide.
“This competition isn’t just about spelling words; it’s about unlocking the potential of young Nigerians and inspiring them to achieve greatness,” said Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria. “We hope to see more students step into the spotlight like Ikenna.”
For the students and teachers at Glorious Covenant School, the visit was more than a celebration—it was a challenge to dream big.
Many of the students shared aspirations of participating in future editions of the Spelling Bee, encouraged by Ikenna’s inspiring story. “Winning this competition has changed my life,” said Ikenna. “I hope my journey motivates other students to work hard and believe in their potential.”
By visiting Glorious Covenant School, MTN not only celebrated Ikenna’s success but also reinforced its commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators. Through initiatives like the mPulse Spelling Bee, MTN continues to inspire Nigerian youth to pursue excellence and achieve their dreams.
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