Telecom
Zain Subscriber Base Rises to 56.3M as Group Net Profit ups by 7%
Zain has announced that its customer base has reached a staggering 56.3 million even as the group net profit has clocked US$327 million
For the third quarter of 2008, Zain Group recorded consolidated revenues of US$1.887 billion, an increase of 25% compared to Q3-2007, the company disclosed. Zain’s consolidated Ebitda increased by 20% for the same period to reach US$763.6 million.
Commenting on the Q3-2008 period and financial results, Dr. Saad Al-Barrak, Zain’s CEO said: "This quarter has been both the most challenging and most rewarding in Zain’s corporate history since the launch of our profitable expansion strategy in 2003, laying the foundation for our 2011 targets of being a top-ten global telecommunications company. Despite financial turmoil across the globe, we are delighted to have succeeded in raising US$4.5 billion through our capital increase. Additionally the launch of services of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been very successful given we have acquired one million customers in less than two months notwithstanding the fierce competition in that market."
Al-Barrak further added "Our ground-breaking "One Network" service now linking two continents is playing a pivotal role in customer acquisition, contributing to the success of the Saudi Arabia launch as well as in the other 15 operations where it is available. The Zain brand has been warmly received across the African continent since its explosive launch on August 1, 2008. Through one brand, we will be better positioned to offer our customers common state-of-the-art products and services such as "One Network".
With respect to operational matters, Al Barrak said: "In recent years, we have invested heavily on both licence acquisitions and network upgrades on two continents so as to meet our 2011 targets of 150 million customers and US$6 billion Ebitda. Nevertheless, we continue to record impressive financial results this quarter reflecting exceptional operational efficiencies and we expect even better results in the years ahead. Our Kuwait operation continues to contribute considerably to our net profit and our team are focused on strategies to contest the 3rd mobile entrant expected later in 2008. The Bahrain operation continues to shine exceeding all targets, while our operations in Iraq, Jordan and Sudan are maintaining their respective markets share in competitive and challenging environments. The integration of the acquired Iraqna operation in Iraq has been successfully completed and we expect to reap the rewards in the not so distance future."
Al Barrak noted: "Our Nigerian operation is witnessing exponential customer growth based on the heavy investment in network upgrades and expansion. We are extremely excited by the future potential in all facets of this operation. In East Africa, our Madagascar, Tanzania and Uganda operations focus on customer acquisition is paying off, all three recording impressive results. We expect our revamped Kenyan operation to follow suit as the new management team is now totally geared to the challenges ahead with concerted Zain Group support on all fronts. Our Ghana operation will commence mobile services by the end of 2008."
A fortnight ago, Zain announced the successful completion of its capital increase, raising US$4.5 billion with 99% of all shareholders subscribing. The amount raised is unprecedented in Kuwaiti’s history exceeding all expectations, given the gloomy trends that have recently dominated local and international markets and resulted in sharp declines in the prices of oil as well as significant collapses in the financial markets worldwide.
"The successful completion of this capital increase is a unanimous vote of confidence by our shareholders in Zain’s management team, the performance to date and in our profitable expansion strategy," said Al-Barrak; adding: "the proceeds will provide the company with the liquidity necessary to continue its ambitious expansion strategy, while reducing the borrowing costs of the company’s operations and increasing shareholder value in the long term used to finance future strategic expansion plans and meet financial commitments."
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.
E-Financial2 days agoCBN Rejigs Financial Inclusion Strategy to Boost Economic Growth
E-Financial2 days agoSEC Urges IST to Freeze all CBEX Bank Accounts in Nigeria
News2 days agoFG to Use Digital Economy Initiatives to Curb Corruption Among Youth
E-Business2 days agoFinancial Sector Faced AI, Blockchain and Organised Crime Threats in 2025 – Report
Broadcasting2 days agoEnd of an Era as Multichoice Delists from JSE After Canal+ Takeover
Telecom2 days agoCOUCH 2025 Grand Finale Highlights Student Breakthroughs, Secures Government Pledge for University Research Commercialization
Broadcasting2 days agoGlobal South Alliance Launches $72,000 Datafication and Democracy Fund to Support 2026 Research Projects
Telecom2 days agoGoogle Invests $2.1m to Boost Nigeria’s AI Development












