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NITRA Calls on President Tinubu to Appoint Technocrat as Minister of Communications and Digital Economy

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Journalists in the Information and Communications Technology sector, under the aegis of the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters Association (NITRA), comprising reporters and editors in broadcast, print and online media has called for the nomination and appointment of a competent Minister of Communications and Digital Economy in the new administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu.

In a Press Release that aggregated the views of members and position of the Association, the group, which had in the past consistently engaged stakeholders towards the growth and development of the ICT industry, noted that it will spell retrogression if a Minster, who is not in tune with growth indices in the industry is appointed to drive the most important sector of the economy.

According to the Chairman of NITRA, Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, it is imperative to put a round peg in a round hole when appointing the next Minister of Communications and Digital Economy.

He said: “As an Association, we implore the President to look at the antecedents of proposed individuals and bring forth someone who has played well in the ICT industry. Someone who knows the challenges, gaps and needs of the industry, and is ready t tackle them head-on to achieve results.”

He noted that in the past few years the ICT industry has experienced much growth, but still has a long way to go to be globally competitive, especially in future techs.

In his views, Pioneer Chairman of NITRA and ICT Editor at This Day Media, Mr. Emma Okonji, pointed to attributes expected of the next Minister of Communications and Digital Economy.

“We need a Minister with technology discipline who is digitally savvy and ready to collaborate with industry stakeholders in driving technology development in Nigeria. Such Minister should come from among the various IT bodies and organisations that are registered in Nigeria, and not a politician.

“The Minister should be ready and willing to work with ICT Media in enhancing technology development in Nigeria.”

He further noted that the Minister needs to focus more on Tech Startup development in Nigeria and provide the necessary funding, support and mentorship for growth. “It will help the country to produce several unicorns that will drive technology development in the country.

The Minister should focus on SME growth using technology as the driving force. Again the Minister should look into the feud between Telcos and the Banks in order to build cordial working relationship among them that will promote growth and development in the ICT sector.”

Echoing same thoughts, Group Technology Editor, LEADERSHIP Group Limited, Mr. Chima Akwaja, said the new Minister must be a technocrat who should be well versed in Telecom industry issues, and a core professional.

Speaking further on the task ahead, Akwaja noted: “He should give the agencies in the Ministry free hands to operate.

He should not encroach on their functions; focus on creation of tech hubs in the 6 geopolitical zones and encourage states to have own hubs to train and nurture tech talents; partner with higher institutions on new digital skills training and modules; strategically work with ICT bodies/Associations to create level playing field and attract FDIs; and ensure there is harmony and synergy among the Agencies and other inter-agency regulators.

He also said the minister should work towards creating Technology Banks that would provide seed capital to tech entrepreneurs/startups in the country, and work to promote Local Content in technology usage.

Speaking on the task of a wider stakeholder engagement to be midwifed by the incoming minister, Founder/Editor-in-Chief of Cyber Era, Mr. Clifford Agugoesi noted: “The occupier of the seat must be highly miscible and command respect of stakeholders  of the Ministry, among others. Relationship is everything.

“The FMoCDE should be able to relate well with sister Ministries – Education, Budget & National Planning, Science & Technology, Trade & Investments, Information & Culture, among others.

“The Minister should also be able to relate well with other arms of government, the Legislature and the Judiciary, and with Industry associations such as ALTON, ATCON, ISPON, NCS, CIMON.

“The Minister must carry along to ensure policies and strategies are reflective of a wide industry input.

“He /She must demonstrate capacity to work collaboratively with these, especially the Press, to strengthen his/her oversight functions and engender accountability.

“The local ICT media need to be empowered through capacity building programmes, projects and activities and supported through advertisements and institutional support schemes”.

He further tasked the new minister on continuity of laudable programmes such as the NDEPS 2020-2030 and Nigerian National Broadband Plan (NNBP) 2020-2025.

“The New FMoCDE needs to be pragmatic. We hold this fact to be sacred that only a pragmatic Minister will enhance the performance of the ICT Ministry and industry and maintain the upward trajectory of ICTs contributions to the GDP. His or her focus should be on “Leveraging ICT to transform Nigeria into a full digital economy.”

Nigeria’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector contributed a significant 17.47% to Nigeria’s GDP (Real Gross Domestic Product) in the first quarter of 2023. This is according to the latest statistics released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

According to the NBS report, this amounts to about N3.1 trillion of the total N17.75 trillion of the country’s real GDP in the quarter.

This is a notable increase in the ICT sector’s GDP contribution, surpassing the figures for the first quarter of 2022 which stood at N2.86 trillion.

The NNBP is to achieve 70% broadband penetration by 2025. The country still has less than 50% penetration. This means there is huge investment potential for investors.

Nigeria’s telecom sector needs more investment in the area of infrastructure deployment, and this is one area the minister should focus on, noted the General Secretary of NITRA and Editor at eBusiness Life Communication Limited, Mr. Chidiebere Nwankwo. The ICT sector contributed N3.1 trillion to Nigeria’s GDP in Q1 2023 representing 17.47%.

So far, there has been reduction of the clusters of access gaps to 97 from 207 in 2013.

While describing the reduction in access gap so far as a landmark, NCC boss, Prof. Umar Danbatta said the Commission will not rest on its oars as it thrives to ensure that the remaining 27 million Nigerians, who currently lack access to telecoms services, are provided with services.

The sector contributed 13.23% to the total nominal GDP in Q1 2023, surpassing the rates recorded in both the same quarter of the previous year (10.55%) and the preceding quarter (10.42%). This nominal growth represents a substantial increase of 41.84% during the quarter, marking a 21.30% point rise compared to the corresponding period of 2022.

 


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Ugo Onwuaso is an ICT enthusiast. He believes technology should be used for general good. He holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from the Lagos state University. Dear Reader, Your support matters. But we believe that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. That is why, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and finance and how they affect lives. Our incisive and analytical view of how technology news affects the daily life help individuals and organizations make up their minds. Quality journalism costs money. Today, we're asking that you support us to do more. Kindly support our effort to deliver technology and finance journalism to everyone in the world. Donate as little as N1,000. Bank transfers can be made to: UBA Plc 1017156876 Communication Week Media Ltd

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Airtel Nigeria Leads Telecom Market Surge

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In a recent revelation from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Airtel Nigeria has emerged as a standout performer in the country’s telecommunications sector, marking significant gains in market share over the past year.

According to the NCC data, by the end of March 2024, Airtel Nigeria has grown its market share over the last year into a remarkable 29%, solidifying its position as a leading telecom provider in the region.

In stark contrast, other mobile network operators such as MTN and 9mobile have faced considerable setbacks, with MTN witnessing a notable 3.19% decline in market share and 9mobile experiencing a 0.5% decrease.

Even Glo, a prominent player in the market, saw a decline, albeit less pronounced, with a 0.58% drop in its share of internet subscribers.

Airtel Nigeria’s success story goes beyond market share gains. The company has also witnessed a substantial surge in its share of internet subscribers, boasting an impressive 165% basis points increase.

This surge correlates with the launch of Airtel 5G, which the company began rolling out in June 2023 and underscores the telco’s continued push to grow its customer base nationwide.

Airtel Nigeria’s ascendancy in the telecom market comes at a pivotal moment when mobile network operators face challenges of rising operations cost and exchange rates volatility. The company’s recent results solidify its position as a frontrunner in Nigeria’s telecom landscape.

 


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Airtel Boosts NIPR Public Relations Week with Onsite Unlimited Data Connection

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Telecommunications service provider, Airtel Nigeria has collaborated with the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to provide with unlimited internet access at the institute’s inaugural edition of the Nigeria Public Relations Week.

The trailblazing event themed ‘Leveraging Public Relations as a Critical Asset for Nigeria’s Economic and Reputation Renaissance’ is set to run from Monday, April 22nd to Friday, April 26th, 2024, and will welcome thousands of delegates across Nigeria to the prestigious June 12 Cultural Centre, nestled in the heart of Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

Speaking on the strategic collaboration, Femi Adeniran, Director, Corporate Communications and CSR, Airtel Nigeria, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Airtel is proud to support the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations in its endeavor to advance the field of public relations.

“The relevance of public relations practice in Nigeria cannot be overstated, as it plays a vital role in shaping perceptions, managing reputations, and influencing public opinion. Hence, our support is a demonstration of our commitment to empowering individuals and organizations with innovative solutions that drive progress and create an enabling society.”

According to NIPR, through the PRWeek Organizing \Committee Chairman, Mr Yomi Badejo Okusanya, the NPRW will gather over 2,000 experts in the fields of economics, PR, and nation-building to discuss strategies for effectively communicating government policies and initiatives to the public.

Other activities at the NPRW will include conferences, the annual general meeting, workshops, induction of new members, breakout sessions with students as well as traditional rulers and a tour of some legacy projects in Ogun state.

With Airtel’s provision of onsite unlimited data connection, attendees and participants can enjoy unparalleled access to online resources, real-time updates, and interactive engagements throughout the duration of the event. This will significantly support the exchange of ideas, foster networking opportunities, and elevate the overall experience for all stakeholders involved.

Airtel Nigeria remains committed to offering unwavering support for initiatives aimed at driving innovation, collaboration, and nation-building.


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World Earth Day: Kuda Partners with Wecyclers to Clean up Communities in Lagos

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In a landmark partnership aimed at promoting sustainable waste management practices, Kuda Microfinance Bank and Wecyclers collaborated to commemorate World Earth Day on April 22, 2024. The collaboration featured a series of impactful activities designed to raise awareness and foster environmental stewardship.

The activities on the day included a webinar session facilitated by renowned expert in environmental management and head of ESG at Wecyclers, Omobolanle Olowu, during which she shared startling data on plastic pollution in Nigeria. She also discussed the importance of proper waste management and its significance in preserving the planet for future generations, providing valuable insights and practical tips on reducing, reusing, and recycling waste.

In a published study on plastic pollution in Nigeria, the country ranked ninth globally for plastic pollution with an estimated 2.5 million tons of plastic waste generated annually and less than 12% of those waste materials recycled.

Also on the day, Kuda staff volunteered for an environmental cleanup exercise, during which they took to parts of Apapa Road, Ebute Metta to empty gutters and collect plastics and other recyclable materials for recycling.

In addition, volunteers from Kuda gained firsthand knowledge of innovative waste management solutions during a guided tour of Wecyclers’ facility in Ebute Metta. The tour showcased Wecyclers’ pioneering efforts in recycling and waste upcycling, demonstrating how technology can be leveraged to address environmental challenges effectively.

Speaking about the collaboration, Emmanuel Femi-Adejobi, Senior Brand Manager at Kuda, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership’s potential to drive positive change. “We [Kuda] are committed to promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness. We also believe that our responsibility is not only to our customers and other stakeholders but also the environment that we all share. Partnering with Wecyclers allows us to inspire communities to adopt eco-friendly practices,” he said.

“Our initiatives towards achieving a sustainable environment and achieving a green earth goes beyond just recycling. We aim to inspire a broader commitment to waste minimization, reusing materials and proper sustainable waste management. As we commemorate World Earth Day, we encourage our staff, customers and general public as a whole to embrace actions that promote a green, safe earth for all,” he added.

Likewise, Esther Chibueyin Fagbo, Head, Human Resources and Partnerships at Wecyclers, emphasised the importance of collective action in addressing environmental issues. “It is very important for organisations to collaborate on initiatives that help save the environment. We are excited about this partnership because such partnerships are crucial to creating awareness and educating people about the impact of plastic waste on the planet and how they can contribute to a change that we all deserve.”

Kuda’s collaboration with Wecyclers emphasises its commitment to sustainability and championing proactive efforts through education, engagement and action to create an environmentally conscious population and a sustainable tomorrow.


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