Telecom
Cyber Crooks Threatens National Security with RAT
Despite recent moves by Nigeria to enact a cyber crime law to combat the global scourge, a study by Symantec – the leading security firm, shows the rogues are inventing more ingenuous routes to unleash terror on government infrastructures and multinational operations.
Katie Beck, Symantec’s group PR manager, EMEA Mid-Size & Growth Countries Corporate Communications stated that cyber criminals are getting more sophisticated in their deployment of technology at beating the system.
“Cybercriminal operations are becoming increasingly sophisticated, a trend that is likely to continue in the future.”
The Symantec study on new trends of cyber attacks show criminals deploying remote access Trojan (RAT). In one instance, RAT was configured to contact a command-and-control (C&C) server located in Ukraine (one of the nations from the defunct Soviet Union legacy).
Using the RAT, the attacker immediately took control of an office administrative assistant’s infected computer. This way, “they logged keystrokes, viewed the desktop, and browsed and exfiltrated files.”
Nigeria’s vulnerability is made worst by the fact that government businesses are conducted via open email infrastructure across the nation.
Most ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) rather than use dedicated platforms for official government-to-government businesses, use open sources like yahoomail for official transactions.
According to the Symantec study, “Mobile Wi-Fi hotspots act like GSM cellular radios (equivalent to a GSM phone) that can provide Internet access to a computer system through the mobile phone network.
This potentially provides anonymity for the attacker if the GSM SIM card for the mobile Wi-Fi hotspot is purchased in cash at a bazaar or private sale. Many 3G providers around the world allow the purchasing of a prepaid data plan without verifying the identity of the buyer. As a result, telecom records will not lead to an individual.”
But a senior corporate communications staff of a leading mobile operator in Lagos pleading anonymity told Nigeria CommunicationsWeek it was unlikely to have some purchase a prepaid data plan without his details properly verified.
When confronted with facts that pre-registered SIM cards are sold in the open market across operators platforms, he insisted that it was not possible.
Roselyn Isimeto, a Computer Science lecturer at the University of Lagos noted that cyber crime is a scourge of the new age and nations need to invest in IT infrastructure to keep attacks at minimal levels.
She noted that Nigeria’s critical economic infrastructure in key sectors like oil and gas, telecommunications, electricity, aviation and finance are at risk of major knock down by cyber crooks.
Beck noted that attackers usually begin by “compromising systems within an organization using their RAT. Once the systems were infected with the RAT, the attacker retrieved identifying information, including disaster recovery plans, of the organization’s bank and telecom providers, its points of contact with both providers and its bank and telecom account data.
“Using this data, the attacker was able to impersonate a company representative and called the organization’s telecom provider. They proved their authenticity to the telecom provider, claimed that a physical disaster had occurred and said that they needed all of the organization’s phone numbers to be redirected to attacker-controlled phones.”
But Nigeria said it is working on a law to curb the menace.
Labaran Maku, minister of information stated that the “objective of the (new) cyber crime law (2003) is to prove an effective, unified and comprehensive legal, regulatory and institutional framework for the prohibition, prevention, detection, prosecution and punishment of cyber crimes in Nigeria – promote cyber security and ensure the protection of critical national information infrastructure.”
Maku says “there is need for cooperation and international coalition to combat cyber crimes. Cyber crimes are species of cross-border crimes perpetrated in time and space from any geographical spot in the world.”
Consequently, he noted that the new Nigerian cyber crime law is bring the country to the fulfillment of the ‘Budapest Convention on Cyber crime and reflects Nigeria’s obligations under the soon-to-be fomalised African Union (AU) Convention on the subject matter.”
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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