Telecom
DG Urges Senate to Repeal NITDA ACT to Boost Digital Economy

Dr. Kashifu Inuwa, director-general, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has called on both chambers of the National Assembly to repeal the NITDA Act of 2007 as Nigeria moves from oil-based economy to digital economy and data technology.

Dr. Kashifu Inuwa, DG, NITDA
Dr. Inuwa made this call, while playing host to Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, at NITDA headquarters, Abuja.
According to Inuwa, the NITDA Act, which was signed in 2007, has become obsolete, irrelevant and unfit to assist Nigeria achieve her objectives of digital economy and green energy policies.
He added that, the agency was already on the right pedestal to make information and data technology, artificial intelligence development and other components of digital economy work for Nigeria, but expressed fears and worries that such policies would not work without an enabling laws, such as repealing the NITDA Act.
“We need a law to help us institutionalize and make it work. Even some of the vocabularies used in that law are obsolete and no longer in use. We need to change a lot of things and we need to do that as soon as possible, to enable us succeed in the area of green energy and information technology.
“We see IT or digital devices as enabling everything we do. About 80% of what we do everyday is powered by digital technology.
“How do we use artificial intelligence to improve our farm products and how to predict and share information about our farm. It is through the technology made available to us”, Inuwa said.
He said the agency was already working with the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and relevant authorities, to submit a clean amendment Bill to the National Assembly for legislative work.
When repealed, the new NITDA Act would guarantee the safety of personal data of Nigerians as well as empowering NITDA in implementing the digital economy and data technology.
The law would also give the agency the capacity to regulate information technology based on Federal Government’s objectives, while promoting local and indigenous products and making Nigeria a hub for innovations.
Earlier, Senator Bashir, spokesman of the Senate, expressed satisfaction, on behalf of the Senate, over the progress made by NITDA in information technology and digital economy.
The lawmaker, while assuring the agency of possible collaborations in its duties, also alluded to the need for an enabling law to allow the agency function optimally.
“The 9th Senate would not hesitate to work with any agency that is willing to help the country move.
“We have a country that the population is growing and it is projected that in the next 10 years it would overshoot. The areas of green energy, ecosystem and agricultural productivity would be a great challenge, if we do not plan ahead. We look forward to your agency to assist in information technology by giving the needed guide for the growth of agriculture and our national economy.
“We should be net exporters of foods and not to he relying on other countries for food productions”, the lawmaker said.
Senator Bashiru also charged the DG to stern the capacity of his organization to be able to match the workforce needed for the education of the younger generations and in meeting up with the global trend of digital technology.
NITDA was established by President Olusegun Obasanjo in year 2001, as a hub for developing information technology for Nigeria. The agency , under the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy, is expected to champion the roadmap for the implementation of digital economy policy of the Federal Government.
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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