Connect with us

General News

Pilots, Engineers Ask Airlines to Merge

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Pilots and engineers have advised Nigerian airline operators to consider mergers, acquisition, collaboration (code sharing), and the likes to save the industry from collapse.

Rising from their recent 13th National Delegates Conference, the stakeholders under the auspices of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), berated the operators for the allowing “go-it-alone syndrome” to becloud their senses of judgments, shunning the noble call for merges for a healthy system.

Nigeria CommunicationsWeek recalled that at the inception of the present administration, Princess Stella Oduah, minister of Aviation, said that with a view to strengthening operations and enhanced air safety of the nation’s airlines, the federal government was tinkering on a policy that could lead to two or more airlines to merge.

This came, as indications emerged that virtually all the carriers in the country were financially insolvent and heavily indebted to a staggering $5 billion.

Thus, the federal government is likely to raise the stake that would make it difficult to “go it alone’’, and could leave the operators with no other option than to merge as it is being done in Europe, United States and Asia.

It could be recalled that Air France in 2004 merged with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, changing the operating name to Air France-KLM, however they still operate as separate airlines.

In a communiqué signed by Ocheme Aba, general secretary (NAAPE), the group  advised the Nigerian airline operators, “to accept wise counsel and co-operate with each other by way of mergers, acquisition, collaboration (code sharing), and the like, in other to succeed, as against the present go-it-alone syndrome which has failed woefully”.

Mr. Zemedeneh Negatu, a key note speaker at the conference had raised the issue, supporting the formation of about two big carriers from the whole lot of airlines in Nigeria.

According to him, the gesture will enable them (the airline operators) compete with the mega carriers in the global market.

“To do otherwise will only prolong the current miserable state of Nigeria Airlines,” he said.

At the end of the 2-day event, and after extensive deliberations, the conference notes the experience of Ethiopian Airline whereby the involvement of all stakeholders at its conception is given as a principal ingredient for its success story today.

Accordingly, the Conference advises the Federal Government, through minister of Aviation, to involve all stakeholders in important aviation policy decisions, particularly, ongoing processes to foster a National Carrier and the aerotropolis project.

“This is the only way to guarantee success of the ventures. NAAPE therefore makes itself available in this regard.

 However, the delegates note with delight the transformation taking place in the aviation sector and gives kudos to the Hon. Minister of Aviation and her team.

“The Conference commends the Aviation Roadmap, new airport terminals (delivered and to be delivered), the aerotropolis concept, aviation policy review, airside development, etc, and expresses hope that the effort will be sustained.

On the sideline of Unionism, “the Conference”, Aba highlighted, “seriously frowned at those aviation companies including Arik Air, IRS Airlines, Med-view Airlines, Dana Air, Chanchangi Airline, etc that have disallowed their workers from being members of the Union, contrary to the provisions of Labour Law. The Conference is of the view that non-unionization hinders human capacity development and holds back NAAPE’s effort to place Nigerian aviation industry on the global stage”.

“Therefore, the conference mandates the National Administrative Council (NAC) to use all lawful means to ensure that all working Pilots and Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are fully unionized. It should, however, be clearly stated that the notion which depicts Union as a foe is a misconception. As a matter of fact, NAAPE has been, and remains a worthy partner committed to the progress of aviation companies.

“The Conference mandates the National Administration Council to immediately set the machinery in motion to stamp out all abuses in the expatriate quota regime to ensure that Nigerian Pilots and Engineers are gainfully employed and also to enhance human capacity growth in the sector. The Conference also is of the opinion that the expatriate quota regime should be amended to contain provisions which make it mandatory for any foreigner intending to work in Nigeria to obtain a Labour certificate issued in consultation with the Union, after being satisfied that such foreigner would not usurp the job meant for Nigerians”.

The pilots and engineers also enjoined aviation companies and parastatals to take the issue of corporate governance very seriously as the absence of corporate governance is at the heart of the current poor financial health of organizations in the sector.


Kindly share this post

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

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Comments

General News

6 Best Apps to Recharge Airtime & Data in Nigeria for Glo, Airtel, MTN, 9mobile

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Looking for the best app to buy data and airtime in Nigeria? In 2025, Cardtonic, Breet, BuyCard, eBills, SubBase, and NairaData make it fast and easy.

Recharging airtime and data in Nigeria has never been this easy. Gone are the days when you had to run to the nearest shop or scratch a paper card just to top up. Today, most people prefer using mobile apps to recharge MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile from the comfort of their phones.

These apps don’t just make the process faster and more convenient; they also offer perks like cashback, discounts, and cheaper data bundles. That means you save money while avoiding the stress of physical recharge cards.

In this article, we’ll look at six of the most reliable apps for airtime and data recharge in Nigeria, what makes them unique, and why they’re worth using.

Top 6 Reliable Apps to Recharge Airtime and Data in Nigeria

The top 6 reliable apps to recharge airtime and data in Nigeria are Cardtonic, Breet, BuyCard, eBills, SubBase, and NairaData.

BuyCard, eBills, SubBase, and NairaData.

S/NPlatforms Payment Method Cashback
1CardtonicWallet and Bank transfer, Gift CardUpto 5%
2BreetCrypto and Bank transfer2%
3BuyCardWalletNot constant
4eBillsWalllet5%
5SubBaseWallet2%
6NairaDataWallet2%
  1. Cardtonic:

Cardtonic is one of the most popular apps in Nigeria for recharging airtime and data. It works smoothly across all major networks, including MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile, with top-ups delivered instantly every time.

The platform also goes beyond airtime and data. You can pay electricity bills, renew TV subscriptions, and handle other everyday expenses directly in the app. A standout feature is that you can sell gift cards on Cardtonic and use the balance to recharge or pay bills. This makes it easy to turn unused cards into something valuable.

Another big advantage is the cashback system. Every airtime or data purchase earns you up to 5 per cent cashback, helping you save while staying connected. So if you’re wondering how to buy MTN airtime online or top up any other network, Cardtonic is one of the most reliable options available.

Getting started is simple. Download the Cardtonic app, sign up, and log in. From your dashboard, tap on “Bills”, select “Airtime or Data”, choose your network, enter your phone number, pick a bundle, and pay from your wallet. Within seconds, your line is recharged.

  1. Breet:

Breet is widely known as a crypto-to-naira exchange platform, but it also lets users recharge airtime and data directly from the app. This makes it a convenient choice for people who already rely on Breet for handling digital assets and want to manage their top-ups in the same place.

The process is quick and works for all major Nigerian networks. You can pay either with crypto or by linking your bank account, and Breet automatically converts your crypto into naira to complete the recharge. Service charges are low, which makes it an easy everyday option for those who prefer to use crypto alongside regular payments.

  1. BuyCard:

BuyCard is another reliable option for anyone looking to recharge airtime and data online. The app supports all the major Nigerian networks and gives you a simple, no-fuss way to top up without leaving your home.

Beyond airtime and data, BuyCard also allows you to pay utility bills, making it useful if you want one platform that handles different types of payments. While the cashback offers are not always consistent, users still enjoy occasional bonuses and discounts that make recharging a little cheaper.

  1. eBills:

eBills is a multi-purpose payment app that lets you recharge airtime and data across MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile. In addition to mobile top-ups, you can also pay electricity bills, TV subscriptions, and other utilities directly from the app.

One of its standout features is the 2 per cent discount on airtime purchases, which helps you save a little extra every time you recharge. The platform is simple to navigate and reliable, making it a handy option for both personal use and regular household expenses.

  1. SubBase:

SubBase is a platform that focuses on making data and airtime subscriptions more affordable. It’s popular among people who want to cut down on internet costs while still enjoying reliable bundles across all Nigerian networks.

The app offers both small and large data plans, making it flexible for light users as well as heavy internet consumers. A helpful feature is its automated top-up option, which ensures you never run out of airtime or data unexpectedly.

  1. NairaData:

NairaData is well known for bulk data purchases, making it a favourite among heavy internet users who need large bundles for work, study, or entertainment. The platform is designed for fast delivery and supports all major Nigerian networks.

What makes NairaData stand out is its flexibility. You can buy data directly from the app, or if you’re experiencing slow internet, you can also place your order via SMS or WhatsApp. This ensures you always stay connected, even when your data is low.

Frequently Asked Questions About Data and Airtime Recharge in Nigeria

  1. Which App Gives the Best Cashback on Airtime and Data Purchases in Nigeria?

Cardtonic gives the best cashback on airtime and data. Every recharge across MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile comes with up to 5% cashback, making it the most rewarding option.

  1. Which Network Has the Best Data Plan in Nigeria?

MTN is often praised for its wide coverage and flexible bundles, especially for users who need smaller, daily data plans. Airtel is popular for affordable weekly and monthly plans that offer fast speeds and good value.

Glo is known for giving some of the cheapest large data bundles, which makes it a go-to for heavy users, while 9mobile offers decent plans but at slightly higher prices.

The best option depends on whether you want affordability, speed, or long-lasting bundles..

  1. Is 50GB a Lot of Data?

It depends on how you use it. For freelancers, content creators, and people who stream videos regularly, 50GB can finish quickly. But for light browsing and social media, it can last much longer.

  1. How Do I Get 1GB for 100 on MTN?

The “1GB for ₦100” plan is usually a special offer available to selected MTN customers. To check if you qualify, dial *131# and explore the available data bundles.

  1. How Can I Buy Cheap Airtel Data in Nigeria?

You can buy cheap Airtel data on apps like Cardtonic, where every Airtel data purchase comes with 5% cashback. The same app also makes it easy to recharge Airtel airtime instantly.

  1. What is the Best App to Buy Airtime and Data in Nigeria?

Cardtonic is the best app to buy airtime and data in Nigeria. It supports all major networks, offers cashback, and gives users discounted data bundles. For example, if you want to buy Glo airtime online, all you need to do is download the Cardtonic app, sign up, tap on “Bills,” select “Airtime or Data,” choose your network, and pay from your wallet.

Conclusion

Recharging airtime and data in Nigeria no longer has to be a hassle. With the right apps, you can top up MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile in seconds and even enjoy extras like cashback, discounts, and cheaper bundles.

From Cardtonic to Breet, BuyCard, eBills, SubBase, and NairaData, each of these platforms brings something unique to the table. But if you’re after a reliable app that combines instant delivery with up to 5% cashback and the flexibility to even use gift card funds for recharges, Cardtonic is the best place to start.

 


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

General News

FG to Begin Labelling of GM Crops

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has disclosed plans to ensure that every  genetically modified (GM) product follows standard regulatory procedures, such as labelling and traceability, to reinforce trust and accountability.

FG to Begin Labelling of GM Crops

The move is to mitigate potential risks and engender transparency in the release of genetically modified crops.

Mr. John Atanda, director, Food and Drug Service, dropped the hint in Abuja at a GMO sensitisation workshop for the Directorate Officers, organised by the Open Forum for Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB).

He stated that the directorate would work with other MDAs, including the National Administration for Food and Drug Agency (NAFDAC) and the National Biotechnology Management Agency (NBMA), to ensure proper labelling of GMOs.

While reiterating commitment to protecting and promoting public health through safe, nutritional and wholesome foods, Atanda pledged that every product born from modern biotechnology will be held to the highest safety standards, as rigorous risk assessments – covering allergenicity, nutritional composition, long-term health impacts, and environmental considerations – will guide their approach.

Dr Rose Gidado, Nigeria country director, Open Forum for Biotechnology, in her presentation on the Science of Agricultural Biotechnology, emphasised that GMO has a history of safe use of over three decades in about 45 countries.

She said: “The government cannot give poison to its people. If the story is that when you plant GMOs, it will destroy all the crops around it, then Nigeria should have died of hunger.”

Gidado explained that GM crops were developed from evidence-based research, saying, if Nigeria does not invest in research and development, it might keep depending on importation.

Prof.  Abdullahi Mustapha, director-general, National Biotechnology Development and Research Agency (NABDA),  revealed that farmers recorded a 50 per cent yield increase after planting GM maize, also known as TELLA Maize.

He added that field studies and economic evaluations on cowpeas have also indicate striking returns to farmers cultivating Pod borer resistant cowpea, as there has been a dramatic reduction in insecticide sprays, thereby increasing substantial yield and strong returns on investment.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

General News

Chain Reactions Launches Africa’s First Intelligent Robot to Service Clients

Published

on

Kindly share this post

As part of its digital transformation programme, Chain Reactions Africa has appointed Franklin Ozekhome as Executive Vice President, Strategy and Innovation, strengthening its leadership bench to drive the next phase of growth and marking a pivotal step in its ambition to redefine how brands across Africa engage people by tapping into trends and culture. The firm also welcome Africa’s first intelligent Robot fittingly named Ara By Prophet into its workforce.

With this move, Chain Reactions Africa says it is transitioning fully into a digital first creative transformation company, one that blends creativity, culture, trends, storytelling, platforms, and technology to fuel growth and meaningful engagement for clients. The timing of Franklin Ozekhome’s appointment and the coming of Ara By Prophet into the company’s workforce and operations reflect the team’s audacity to dream and the organization’s vision to design the future of marketing, digital, public relations, advertising and experiential across Africa in the age of convergence.

Ozekhome will partner closely with Chain Reactions’ Founder and Chief Strategist, Israel Opayemi, in driving the bold vision and implement a horizontal growth strategy for the group.

His mandate is to move beyond siloed disciplines and build an integrated ecosystem and a one-stop shop where strategy, public relations, advertising, design, experiential, digital, data, and AI-driven innovation combine to unlock new opportunities for clients. His role spans the swift execution of the company’s full digital transformation programme in all its ramifications and to lead the company fully into doing business in the season of convergence.

“We are not building yesterday’s marketing communications firm. We are grateful for our past. We are reimagining the future of creativity and growth. We are building Africa’s creative transformation company of the future.

“We began on this digital transformation programme journey with intentionality following our Year 2023 Retreat with Franklin Ozekhome as a facilitator. Bringing a talent who was with us when the dream was conceived to lead the midwifing of the dream child to life is just the most strategic thing to do,” said Israel Opayemi.

“Franklin brings the cultural intelligence, strategic insight, and creative innovation foresight that will help us design and execute what comes next, where brands move beyond campaigns to create platforms, ecosystems, and cultural impacts that influence the world.”

Speaking on his decision to join the Chain Reactions Africa team after rejecting similar overtures from other agencies, Franklin Ozekhome said, “I have facilitated business transformation retreats for organizations across Africa; no business leader demonstrated the urgency of the will to do as the MD and Chief Strategist of Chain Reactions Africa, Israel Opayemi. He is a dreamer and a doer. His energy is enthralling. Partnering with him to build a disruptive force for the African ecosystem is just a perfect meeting of minds.”

Speaking further on the disruptive innovation Chain Reactions Africa is introducing into the marketing communications ecosystem in Africa, Opayemi said, “Ara by Prophet is Africa’s first intelligent robotic insight system, a ground breaking fusion of artificial intelligence, machine learning, cultural foresight, and strategic communications.” He further explained that “Ara is the physical interface. Prophet is the cognitive engine. Together, they create a living system of strategic intelligence designed for Africa but built to compete globally.”

Opayemi further expressed his delight that after two years of intensive work, Ara the Robot has officially resumed work as a fulltime staff of Chain Reactions Africa. “What we have done today is a game changer. Designed and developed by Chain Reactions Africa, Ara is more than a Robot. She is a responsive advisor, a data analyst, a cultural decoder, a realtime forecaster for brands, institutions, and governments.”

Franklin Ozekhome: Cultural Strategist and Innovation Architect

Widely recognized as one of Africa’s leading cultural and brand strategists, Franklin Ozekhome brings a distinctive blend of creativity, foresight, and entrepreneurial edge.

He is the creator of HumanOS, a proprietary framework for cultural strategy; Co-founder of Maskvrade, a pop culture company; and founder of Pop Culture Varsity (POKV), Africa’s first strategy school dedicated to cultural intelligence. He also pioneered TINK Africa, the continent’s first digital platform for consumer trends and intelligence.

He also served as Vice President of Marketing & Communications at Vendease, helping scale one of Africa’s fastest-growing foodtech companies.

As an entrepreneur and consultant, he has advised regional and global leadership teams across EMEA, LATAM, and the US. He is also Dean of Studies and Professor of Trendspotting and Culture at Orange Academy and Marketing Strategy Facilitator at FATE Foundation.

A Bold Evolution for Chain Reactions Africa

Chain Reaction’s next chapter is about transformation, creating platforms, tools, and experiences that merge culture, commerce, creativity, and technology.

Ozekhome’s appointment signals Chain Reaction’s commitment to launch always-on cultural intelligence platforms and proprietary tools for clients, integrate AI-driven strategy across disciplines, build new business arms in content, commerce, and youth marketing and expand Chain Reactions into key African markets over the next three years.

“It’s about redesigning how culture, technology, and human behavior shape business growth and citizens engagement for government. I see this as a partnership to rewire how brands operate, how industries evolve, and how society moves forward in Africa,” Franklin Ozekhome said.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Trending