Telecom
V-Convention Underscores QNET’s Commitment to Transparency and Accountability – Biram Fall
Mr. Biram Fall, QNET’s Regional General Manager, Sub-Sahara Africa, said that V-Convention is a veritable platform where QNET underscores its commitment to transparency and accountability.
Mr. Biram Fall, QNET’s Regional General Manager (RGM)
He stated this on Thursday at a webinar organised for Nigerian journalists who have attended the V-Convention (VCON) in Malaysia to share their experiences.
Mr. Fall stated that V-Convention enables stakeholders to witness firsthand the company’s dedication to product quality, ethical business practices, and the empowerment of its IR network.
He also added that V-Convention is an avenue for distributors to deepen product knowledge, engage with company experts in business-building sessions as well as gaining insights from accomplished distributors.
He further emphasized that QNET brings together a diverse assemblage of marketing professionals, experienced business leaders, and global entrepreneurs associated with the QI Group’s flagship business in Penang, Malaysia. “Every year since 2022, QNET invites selected journalists from media outlets in Nigeria to attend this important event.
We recently hosted the first V-Convention of 2024 in May, bringing up to 9,000 attendees. Following QNET’s theme for the year, “Championing You,” the event emphasized QNET’s unwavering commitment to empowering individuals with financial independence and personal growth through our lifestyle and wellness product portfolio.
“This unique platform fosters knowledge exchange, develops new ideas, and propels the industry forward by bringing together a diverse group of experts, entrepreneurs, and marketing professionals.
Speaking further Mr. Fall noted that Nigerian Journalists overtime have been invited to Malaysia in order for them to have a firsthand experience of the convention.
According to him, “Every year since 2022, QNET invites selected journalists from media outlets in Nigeria to attend this important event.
“We’re grateful to our media partners who have joined us at various times to mark this important occasion.”
Nigerian journalist who at one time or the other attended the V-Convention (VCON) in Malaysia shared their palatable experiences at various times at the convention.
Starting with Royal Ibeh, a reporter with Leadership Newspaper who attended the VCON 2024 edition said, “It was a great experience. My take home from the VCON experience is how QNET is empowering micro entrepreneurs all over the world, QNET has given them a purpose in life.
“Imagine someone who does not have anything doing, all of a sudden start earning as high as $500,000, all thanks to QNET. I would scream more than them if I was given that opportunity.
“So, that is what I was eager to write about on how Africans can leverage on the direct selling model. I would love to see a time when Africans will be in that hall, celebrating the founders of QNET”.
N’ankwat Dariem of Voice of Nigeria who was at the VCON 2023 noted the significant presence of young entrepreneurs at the event seeking to improve their lives through direct selling. This resonated with Prince Osuagwu of Vanguard Newspaper, VCON attendee 2022 who further highlighted the strong sense of community and support fostered by the event.
He viewed VCON as a platform for knowledge exchange, particularly valuable for replicating success stories in the Nigerian market with its large youth population. Osuagwu was also impressed by QNET’s dedication to innovation, showcasing products that address real-world challenges in Nigeria, such as vertical farming technology and hygiene devices.
Mr. Akeem Ajisafe Abiodun, CEO, Transblue Ltd, said that the goal with the webinar was to gain a deeper understanding of what the V-Convention means for QNET and its stakeholders and to highlight its crucial importance to the direct-selling industry.
He said V-Convention is QNET’s largest gathering of network marketing professionals, experienced business leaders, and global entrepreneurs associated with the QI Group’s flagship business. “QNET is known for its direct-selling business model, which involves selling products directly to consumers through an e-commerce platform. This business model has empowered thousands of people worldwide to become successful entrepreneurs. Direct selling is not only a promising career option but also a route to economic empowerment. The industry provides an appealing opportunity to launch a business with minimal capital or logistic challenges. However, in Nigeria and many African countries, the industry has garnered attention for the wrong reasons due to the prevalence of pyramid schemes and fraudulent practices posing as legitimate direct-selling companies.”
Ajisafe added that V-Convention is a platform that plays a significant role in dispelling the misconception that direct selling is fraudulent. It emphasizes the importance of ethical practices, networking, and building sustainable businesses. The event also highlights the value of direct selling as a means of personal and financial empowerment, showcasing the success stories of entrepreneurs who have built their businesses through QNET’s direct selling model.”
Speaking on the latest trends and Innovation showcased at V-Convention 2024, Ajisafe said that V-Convention provides a platform to showcase the latest trends and innovations in the direct selling industry. This includes the launch of exciting products that enhance customer experiences and increase distributors’ efficiency, as well as exclusive training and empowerment opportunities.
“The recently concluded V-Convention in May was a five-day event that showcased the launch of products such as the Amezcua E-Guard X. This revolutionary device is a unique wellness solution that provides protection for your body from the harmful effects of electro-smog exposure from mobile phones, computers, laptops, and televisions. Additionally, the event introduced the HomePure Rayn, which is the first showerhead to integrate Amezcua Resonance Technology with the high-quality water filtration that the HomePure brand is known for. Lastly, the BHM luxury Swiss watch and jewellery brand introduced a new collection of timepieces titled Alto.
“The event celebrates the power of community by bringing together a diverse group of up to 9,000 individuals from over 30 countries worldwide, creating a dynamic environment for exchanging ideas, sharing success stories, and forming meaningful connections,” Ajisafe said.
Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) is investigating a petition against 9Mobile, one of Nigeria’s top four telecoms companies, over an alleged N1 billion unpaid advertising debt.
In a statement issued at the weekend, the ARCON stated that the petition was filed by advertising agencies alleging that Emerging Markets Telecommunications Services Limited — trading as 9mobile — failed to settle payments for services rendered and has continued to engage new agencies without fulfilling existing obligations.
The regulator identified the alleged activity as a potential violation of the Nigerian advertising code, adding that it might have far-reaching consequences throughout the business.
“It was also alleged that while 9mobile refused to pay or resolve its indebtedness to the agencies, it has gone ahead to brief other agencies to continue its advertising and advertisement business with impunity,” the statement reads.
The ARCON said it would investigate whether 9mobile followed disengagement protocols when transitioning from the owed agencies to new ones and whether there were possible breaches of ethical procedures.
“Advertising debts are beyond agencies,” ARCON added.
“They belong mostly to media houses and third-party vendors/suppliers who are significantly affected by the indebtedness, with multiplier effects on their cash flow and operations.”
The council said it would partner with anti-graft and government agencies to ensure a full investigation and the debt’s resolution — stressing that the borders on economic sabotage.
The ARCON reiterated that the Nigerian advertising industry’s official payment threshold remains 45 days and promised to clamp down on practices that encourage unethical competition and unfair advantage.
“The council will take all necessary actions to eradicate unethical competition and ensure compliance with the Advertising Industry Standard of Practice (AISOP), including adherence to the 45-day credit policy,” it said.
9mobile is a member of the Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN), and its members are expected to follow advertising regulations and contractual duties within the ecosystem.
Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) has successfully concluded its 17th Annual General Meeting (AGM), reinforcing its commitment to Nigeria’s digital identity.
(L–R): Ogbuefi Remmy Nweke, Member, Board of Trustees, NiRA; Mr. Ahmad Mukoshy, Newly Elected Executive Board Member, NiRA; Mrs. Seyi Onasanya, COO NiRA; Mr. Adesola Akinsanya, President, NiRA; and Mr. Peter Oluka, Executive Board Member, NiRA.
Held as a hybrid event at the NiRA Secretariat and virtually, the meeting brought together over 325 members, stakeholders, and media representatives to review progress and set future goals.
During the AGM, NiRA President, Mr. Adesola Akinsanya, emphasized the Association’s remarkable growth in 2024, including 94,723 new registrations and 61,227 renewals, bringing the total number of .ng domains under management to 212,890. The accreditation of 23 new registrars further strengthened NiRA’s reach and impact.
A major highlight was the implementation of DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC), enhancing domain integrity and security. NiRA also launched a Registrar Incentive Programme in Q3 2024 to encourage adoption and reward top-performing registrars.
Strategic partnerships were a key focus, with collaborations across government and private sectors. NiRA continued its long-standing relationship with NITDA, engaged with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), and worked with the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry to support businesses. Other partnerships included efforts with the Nigeria Computer Society and Innovation Support Network (ISN Hubs) to drive internet development in Nigeria.
Among NiRA’s recent initiatives were Tech Convergence 1.0, a flagship event exploring technology and creativity, and the 7th edition of the prestigious .ng Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations for their contributions to Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
The Association also reaffirmed its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility through the NiRA Kids Foundation (NKF) and .ng Academy, focusing on digital empowerment and capacity building.
The election of new Executive Board of Directors members marked a major step forward, with Mrs. Mary Olaseni, Mrs. Abibat Olatunji, and Mr. Ahmad Mukoshy joining the board, while Mr. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata and Mr. Destiny Amana assumed new roles. The outgoing board members were recognized for their service and contributions.
The seamless execution of the AGM underscored NiRA’s professionalism and dedication. Moving forward, NiRA remains committed to fostering a secure and resilient digital ecosystem through the .ng domain, positioning Nigeria as a global digital leader.
Telecommunications and digital services provider, Globacom, has partnered with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and Huawei Nigerian Enterprises, to provide digital access to 7,000 remote communities in Nigeria with the commissioning of the pilot project in Isuanin Kura in Ibwa 2, Gwagwalada, on the outskirts of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja on Wednesday.
The project, which is championed by the Ministry, will deliver 2G/3G/4G services, free public Wi-Fi access, digital healthcare and remote learning capabilities to the over 12,000 residents of the community.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, was full of commendation to Globacom and Huawei for supporting President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the connectivity crisis affecting more than 20 million Nigerians who currently lack basic telecommunication access in the country.
Said he: “If you bring out your phone in many communities, there is no network at all. This is costing the country significantly because people cannot access financial services, medical care, or education”, adding that this also poses governance challenges as disconnected areas are difficult to administer.
“Where you live should not determine your access to opportunity. We are using innovation to ensure every Nigerian, regardless of location, can thrive in the digital age”, the Minister added.
Globacom’s Group Chief Technical Director, Mr. Sanjib Roy, who spoke on the project said the company worked with the Ministry and Huawei to bring up the site by providing the Microwave backhaul link and access to Globacom’s full core network resources and also manage the operation of the site to ensure uninterrupted voice and data services for the community.
“The Smart Education facility allows for young students within the community to receive education remotely, with the teachers being in Abuja or any other part of the world, while Healthcare delivery has been revolutionised through connected medical equipment that enables remote consultations between patients in Ibwa and doctors and specialists in urban-locations”, Mr Roy explained. The site and all the equipment are powered by solar thereby ensuring clean environment and uninterrupted power supply.
During the inauguration, the system’s effectiveness was demonstrated with the leader of Isuanin Kura, Ibwa 2 Community, Chief Abubakar Bamaiyi, having a live consultation with a medical doctor in Abuja, while the Minister and other guests watched as the students in the local school were being taught via online video by a teacher in Lagos, using equipment provided by Huawei.
Mr Kazeem Kaka, Globacom’s Head of Division, North West, who also spoke at event, said, “For Globacom, this is a continuation of our long-standing mission to democratize access to communication. Since 2003, we have remained at the forefront of efforts to lower the barriers to connectivity—making telephony, internet, and data services more accessible and affordable for all Nigerians.
“Today’s launch reinforces that commitment. We are particularly excited about the impact this initiative will have on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment of Ibwa people”.
In his remarks, Mr Terrens Wu, Managing Director, Huawei Nigerian Enterprises, said his company was proud to be part of the initiative to provide connectivity, and promote learning and healthcare in rural communities through digital technology. His company later gave out 120 affordable smartphones to the community to help them have access to telephony.
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