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ATCON Shows Concerns, Pushes for Secondary & Free Spectrum Market

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The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) ‎has expressed deep concern about how the frequency spectrum is being managed in Nigeria.

In a speech presented during a visit to management of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in Abuja on Thursday, Engineer Lanre Ajayi, president of ATCON, said that while  the members are delight over the positive development in our industry, which has been identified as the fastestest growing sector of the Nigerian economy, the association has some concerns.

ICT industry presently contributes more 8% to the nation GDP.

Ajayi who acknowledged that the success is not without the professional way the NCC has been regulating the industry, thanked the Commission for being steadfast and being professional.

“and we particularly thank the new management of NCC for sustaining the tradition of excellence in the organisation”.

However, the ATCON president said that inspite of these positive developments, they would like to express a deep concern about how the frequency spectrum is being managed in Nigeria, not only by NCC but by other entities concerned with frequency managemnet, including the National Frequency Management Board (NFMB).

He said, “We expected the NFMB to proactively discharge its responsibility. But that seems not to be the case in its handling of 700 MHZ recently sold by the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to MTN. It was expected that when frequencies that were previously allocated to an agency of Government is no longer of relevance to that agency and such frequency has been freed, we expect an immediate re-allocation of such frequencies to other appropriate Government agencies for assingning to deserving operators.

“If such measure had been taken the mess that is being reported in the sale of the spectrum would have been avoided. We are also disturbed that NCC has not been able to assign spectrum to operators for a long while. Past attempts to assign 2,6 Ghz have failed”.

To this end, the Association pushes for secondary spectrum market.

He said that ATCON holds the opinion that the Nigerian market is matured enough to have a secondary spectrum market.

“Presently, there is large number of idle spectrums in custody of some operators while numerous investors are yearning for spectrum to roll out services. Since it takes a lot of hurdles to retrieve such spectrum from the owners, it makes sense to allow such owners sell to new buyers who may have a need for the spectrum.

“These will benfit everyone concerned. It benefits the seller, who may have challlenges in rolling out after the acqusition of the spectrum. It benefits the buyer who now have spectrum to roll out services. It benefits the consumer who are now able to obtain services, it benefit Government who can take in more taxes.

“However, participation at secondary market should be limited to those who obtained spectrum through competetive bidding, like auction, to avoid a scenario where people use their contact to obtain spectrum from Government and sell in the secondary market.

On Free spectrum, he said, “As a strategy to attract small operators to unserved and underserved areas, we would like to recommend to NCC to make available some spectrum to operators for free. Big operators are mostly focused on commercial and very productive population centers.

“Small operators can easily mobilise to service small communities if appropriate incentives are given. Some countries in the world, including the United States, give unlicensed or lite licensed frequecies to operators to attract them to underserved or unserved communities and we would like to recommend this to NCC”.

Ajayi said that this will not only ensure provision of services in those communities but also serve as a great opportunities to create jobs in the communities‎.

 

 


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Nigeria CommunicationsWeek believes that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. So since 2007, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and how they affect lives.

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Dr. Krishnan Ranganath honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at Africa’s ICT Gala

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Dr. Krishnan Ranganath, Regional Executive West Africa at Africa Data Centres (ADC), received a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa’s Beacon of ICT Merit and Leadership Awards held during the weekend in Lagos.

Widely recognized as the industry’s most respected annual event in Nigeria, the Awards ceremony acknowledged Dr. Krishnan’s (often referred to as “Dr. Krish”) unwavering dedication and significant contributions to the nation’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) landscape.

“We are delighted to present you with the Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s distinguished Africa’s Beacon of ICT Merit and Leadership Lecture,” declared Mr. Ken Nwogbo, founder of Nigerian CommunicationsWeek, the event organizer. The Lecture Series itself focuses on initiatives propelling Nigeria’s position on the global ICT map.

Mr. Nwogbo further highlighted that Dr. Krishnan was one of only four individuals selected for the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award by a rigorous selection committee. This recognition honors their consistent commitment to providing innovative ICT solutions and services that fuel Nigeria’s thriving digital economy.

Dr. Ranganath boasts over three decades of experience in the global ICT sector, collaborating with various multinationals across emerging markets. His impressive career includes managing complex projects in developing economies and fostering strong relationships with leading global players across industries.

A key figure in establishing and managing networks and data centers in emerging economies, Dr. Krishnan possesses a proven track record of optimizing resource allocation for achieving organizational goals. He is also actively involved in promoting local African content and crafting long-term ICT strategies and roadmaps for various African countries, with a specific focus on West Africa’s telecommunications infrastructure development.


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FG, Data.Org Partner to Launch Responsible Data Management Course for Public Servants

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Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy through the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) in collaboration with Data.Org has launched a Responsible Data Management Course, a free online course resource targeted at equipping public servants with the fundamentals of ethical data management.

It bridges the theoretical aspects of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 with practical knowledge of data rights and responsibilities, helping public servants navigate data management complexities and mitigate vulnerabilities in public service.

“This partnership between the NDPC and Data.Org is the first in a series of engagements that we have planned to equip civil servants responsible for data management with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate and engage in a rapidly developing work environment that is being enabled by the implementation of Digital Public Infrastructure,” said Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy.

The Responsible Data Management Course is designed for Heads of IT, Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), Data Protection Officers (DPOs), IT & Cybersecurity Personnel, and Officers in roles that deal with data processing and privacy within Federal and State MDAs. This is regarded as a platform to train 10,000 public servants in data management.

The concise, self-paced online learning resource which is designed to be completed in just 2-3 hours, will be available in four (4) cohorts, ensuring broad accessibility and continuous learning opportunities. Certificates would be issued to participants at the completion of each cohort.

Registration begins May 28, 2024, via https://dmc.ndpc.gov.ng. The schedule is as follows:

– Cohort 1: June 19 – July 17, 2024
– Cohort 2: July 22 – August 17, 2024
– Cohort 3: August 19 – September 14, 2024
– Cohort 4: September 16 – October 12, 2024

Dr. Vincent Olatunji, NC/Chief Executive Officer, NDPC, stated, “The privacy issues arising from emerging technologies, which were not envisaged many years ago, are becoming increasingly prominent. Accordingly, we are implementing appropriate measures to enhance the capacity of Nigerians in the Data Protection ecosystem. The Responsible Data Management Course is one of such initiatives designed to equip Nigeria Public Servants with relevant skills to be globally competitive.”

Dr. Uyi Stewart, Chief Data and Technological Officer, Data.Org, notes that the” Responsible Data Management Course provides public servants with foundational data science knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about data that reflect the practical tenets of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, and helps them to understand the ethical handling of data, safeguarding the privacy and rights of individuals, as well as effective data governance.”

By delving into the principles of responsible data handling and the lifecycle of data management, this course equips public servants with the knowledge of regulatory requirements and the ethical frameworks that guide their application. This dual focus prepares public servants to make informed decisions that reflect both the letter and the spirit of the law, ensuring that their actions contribute positively to the trust and confidence in public institutions.

Responsible Data Management Course for Nigerian public servants underscores the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy’s commitment to advancing the digitization of public services and integrating technology into daily interactions.


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Hurry as Konga Tech Month Discount Offer Ends on May 31st

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Konga Tech Month sales campaign from e-commerce giant Konga has been nothing short of a sensation since it kicked off on the 1st of this month. With massive discounts promised on a wide range of tech products, shoppers have flocked to Konga’s website in droves, taking advantage of the incredible deals on offer.

However, with just two days left before the campaign ends on Friday, May 31, the clock is ticking for shoppers to grab their favorite items at unbeatable prices.

Throughout the month, Konga has lived up to its promise of delivering mouth-watering deals and discounts to its customers. From smartphones and laptops to home appliances and gadgets, there has been something for everyone at Konga Tech Month. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your tech arsenal or simply snag a bargain on essential items for your home, now is the time to act.

The sheer magnitude of the discounts on offer sets Konga Tech Month apart. Shoppers have been treated to unprecedented deals on some of the biggest brands in the industry, with discounts of up to 50% or more on select items. From flagship smartphones to cutting-edge gadgets, Konga has pulled out all the stops to ensure customers get the best possible deals.

Konga Tech Month goes beyond just tech gadgets and home essentials. The event recognizes the growing need for reliable internet access in Nigeria. As the trusted platform for acquiring genuine Starlink Kits, Konga offers these innovative satellite internet solutions at attractive deals. But the good news does not stop there. During Konga Tech Month, shoppers can benefit from nationwide free delivery on Starlink kits, allowing them to connect to high-speed internet even in remote areas, empowering them to stay connected and bridge the digital divide.

Konga Tech Month is more than just a shopping event. It is a tech revolution that has empowered Nigerians to access technology that improves their lives, businesses, and connections to the world. With unbeatable discounts, genuine products, and unparalleled convenience, Konga has once again proven why it is the go-to destination for tech enthusiasts and savvy shoppers alike.

But with just two days left until the end of the month, now is the time to make your move. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to grab incredible deals on your favorite tech products before it’s too late. Whether you’ve had your eye on that new smartphone or you are in need of a new laptop, there’s never been a better time to shop at Konga.

 


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