Telecom
NDEPS: Pantami Directs Proper Monitoring Policies, As ICT Sector Records 1.37B USD

The Unprecedented achievement recorded in the Implementation of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) launched barely two years ago has placed Nigeria’s Economy amongst the fastest growing in the world.

This was announced by Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami), Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, at the closing ceremony of the 9th Regular Meeting of the National Council On Communications And Digital Economy (NCCDE) held in Abuja.
Prof Pantami described this year’s theme, ‘Utilizing Digital Technology To Accelerate Economic Recovery In A COVID 19 Era And Beyond’, as apt as it consolidates the present administration’s effort in driving the Nation’s Economy Digitally.
Quoting from the NBS report, Pantami said in the last Q2 of 2020, ICT was the fastest growing sector, adding that the growth rate of ICT sector in 2020 was more than four times the performance of the second most performing sector of the nation’s economy.
“The 14.7 percent growth rate of the ICT sector was greater than the combined 14.21 percent growth of the 2nd to 7th fastest growing sectors in Nigeria in 2020. The Telecommunications sector also recorded a growth rate of 15.90 percent, and this was it’s highest growth rate in the last 10 years.
“National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released the Q1 2021 report and the ICT sector retained its position as the fastest growing sector of the economy, thereby contributing 14.91 percent, also in the Q2 of 2021 ICT contributed an Unprecedented 17.90 percent to the nation’s GDP”, he said.
Professor Pantami noted that in view of the remarkable achievements, President Muhammadu Buhari in May 2021 commended the ICT sector by admitting that ICT sector played a very vital role in ensuring that the country exited recession.
Another milestone recorded by the sector according to Pantami in 2021, was how Startups in Nigeria raised 1.37 billion US Dollars, followed by South Africa and Egypt with 800 billion and 500 billion respectively, which he said is a clear indication that the Digital Economy sector is doing well in the country.
The Minister therefore task Council members to ensure effective implementation of the policies in their respective states as contained in the policy document, with a view to further growing the nation’s Digital Economy sector.
Oyo state emerged the overall winner in the implementation of the development pillars of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS).
Heads of various Parastatals under the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy such as Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Kashifu Inuwa; Managing Director, Galaxy Backbone, Professor Muhammad Bello; Managing Director, NigComSat, Ms Abimbola Alale, and representative of the Executive Vice President, Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), presented winners with medals for their outstanding performance.
Commissioners of Science and Technology from the 36 states of the federation and those from the FCT graced the occasion.
Telecom
MoMo PSB Brings Relief to UNILAG Students with Ultra-Cheap Bus Fares

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

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
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.
Telecom
Airtel Africa Foundation Opens Undergraduate Scholarship Portal in Nigeria

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.
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