The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has assured Nigerians that persistent network disruptions affecting telecom users across the country should not continue beyond this year. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Tony Emoekpere said operators and regulators are already implementing measures to tackle recurring service failures. He said telecom operators had made commitments to regulators and that several improvement projects were already underway. According to Emoekpere, discussions are ongoing among stakeholders across the sector, including mobile network operators, infrastructure providers and service providers, to improve network quality. He said: “There have been positive things already being done, projects have already been put in place, and commitments have already been made to regulators by the Mobile Network Operator. Most in general, I don’t think these issues should surpass this year.” The assurance comes after growing complaints from subscribers over poor call quality, unstable internet service, rapid data depletion and increased tariffs. The Federal Government of Nigeria recently increased pressure on telecom companies to improve service delivery, warning that subscribers deserve better connectivity and value for money. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, said reforms had already been introduced to stabilise the telecom sector, while operators were expected to resolve ongoing service failures. Emoekpere also addressed concerns over data subscription renewals, saying unused data is not lost once users renew their plans. He explained that existing data balances are rolled over and added to newly purchased subscriptions. He added that the Nigerian Communications Commission has a dedicated consumer protection arm that handles complaints from subscribers and works with operators to resolve issues. Emoekpere said no telecom company intentionally delivers poor service, stressing that operators are equally affected by the sector’s challenges.

Nigeria’s House of Representatives has criticised the Nigerian Communications Commission over what lawmakers described as weak regulatory oversight, blaming the agency for persistently poor telecom services nationwide. The lawmakers warned that unreliable connectivity, including frequent dropped calls and slow data speeds, poses risks to lives and property, particularly during emergencies. The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Ahmadu Jaha, representing Chibok, Damboa and Gwoza Federal Constituency of Borno State. Speaking during the debate, Jaha highlighted the growing importance of telecommunications to Nigeria’s economy and daily life, noting a widening gap between subscriber expectations and actual service delivery. “Telecommunication has become a vital part of everyday life in Nigeria. It connects families, supports businesses, enhances education, and drives economic growth. However, despite its importance, the quality of service provided by many telecom companies remains unsatisfactory,” he said. Lawmakers cited recurring issues such as dropped calls, poor data speeds and failed message delivery as evidence of systemic inefficiencies in the sector. They also criticised the mismatch between rising telecom costs and the quality of services delivered. “The high cost of data and call tariffs does not match the quality of service delivered,” Jaha added, noting that unstable connections often lead to rapid data depletion and financial losses for users. Concerns were also raised over weak customer service systems, with subscribers reportedly facing delays in resolving complaints. Lawmakers said this could worsen outcomes in emergencies such as medical incidents, fires and road accidents. Supporting the motion, Deputy Minority Whip George Ozodinobi accused telecom operators of prioritising profit over service improvement, while also faulting the NCC for regulatory complacency. “It is like these companies have made enough profits in billions, and so, they don’t care about improving the network anymore. The NCC has become complacent,” he said. Nigeria’s telecom sector has grown rapidly since liberalisation in the early 2000s, expanding from fewer than one million lines to over 200 million active subscriptions. However, infrastructure development has lagged behind subscriber growth. Industry analysts attribute the poor service quality to inadequate base stations, unreliable power supply and high operating costs. Telecom operators also face challenges such as multiple taxation, vandalism of infrastructure and right-of-way constraints, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas. Despite these constraints, critics argue that the NCC has failed to enforce its Quality of Service regulations effectively, with penalties often seen as insufficient to drive compliance. The House has now called on telecom operators to invest in modern infrastructure, expand coverage to underserved areas, improve customer service and adopt fair pricing that reflects service quality. Lawmakers also directed the NCC to enforce stricter standards and hold service providers accountable, signalling a potential shift towards stronger legislative oversight. An ad hoc committee is expected to be constituted to investigate the root causes of poor telecom service delivery and recommend further legislative action.

Sub-Saharan Africa remains the world’s least connected region, with just a quarter of its population using mobile Internet, according to the latest GSMA report. The State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2025 revealed that the region also has the largest coverage gap globally, at 10 per cent. While more than three-quarters of people in North America, Europe, and East Asia are online through their mobile devices, Africa continues to struggle with low access, widening inequality, and a growing digital divide. Nigeria ranked among the top 20 countries with the largest number of people offline, with 130 million citizens still unconnected. India tops the list with a staggering 690 million people unable to access the Internet, followed by China with 240 million and Pakistan with 130 million. Other countries with high numbers of unconnected citizens include Ethiopia, Indonesia, Egypt, Congo, the United States, and Brazil. The report found that connectivity remains far lower in least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), and small island developing states (SIDS), where only a quarter to a third of the population use mobile Internet. None of these regions have recorded progress since 2021. GSMA also flagged persistent inequalities within low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). People in rural areas are still 25 per cent less likely to use mobile Internet than urban dwellers, while women remain 14 per cent less likely than men to connect. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the gender gap stands at 29 per cent, among the widest globally. Despite these challenges, mobile Internet use continues to grow globally. By the end of 2024, 4.4 billion people were using smartphones to access the Internet, with most on 4G or 5G networks. However, in Africa, six in ten users still rely on 3G devices or basic feature phones, further limiting access to the digital economy.

In recent times, the Federal Fire Service (FFS) has experienced a transformational shift that is redefining fire emergency management in Nigeria. At the heart of this renewed commitment is the visionary leadership of Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, whose strategic oversight and dedication to excellence has revitalized the institution. Under his watch, the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji, and his team have demonstrated that with the right direction, even the most complex institutions can deliver efficiently. The gains made so far are not just on paper—they are visible, measurable, and increasingly appreciated by the public. One of the most noticeable achievements is the significant improvement in the response time to fire incidents. Across major cities and even some rural communities, FFS trucks now arrive faster and better equipped to tackle emergencies. This is a direct result of strategic investments, staff training, and logistical upgrades. A silent but revolutionary improvement has taken place in the way fire officers communicate. The launch of modern Walkie-Talkie systems has significantly enhanced coordination and real-time responses. Communication gaps, which previously led to delays and confusion, are rapidly closing. Recognizing that effective service delivery starts with capable personnel, the Ministry and the FFS leadership have begun the construction of a world-class Fire Academy. This institution will train a new generation of fire officers in modern firefighting, safety protocols, and emerging technologies. Equally commendable is the commissioning of advanced firefighting vehicles. These vehicles are fitted with modern safety tools and tailored for both urban and difficult terrains. From state capitals to smaller towns, citizens are seeing new trucks on standby and on duty. Behind every successful rescue is a motivated fire officer. The leadership has also made deliberate strides in improving staff welfare, ranging from training to promotions, housing, and recognition of outstanding service. What’s most telling about the current transformation in the Federal Fire Service is how Nigerians are reacting. Across social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), citizens are openly acknowledging the change, offering commendations that reflect not just approval but renewed trust. “The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has given the Federal Fire Service a new facelift. The #FFS has experienced a tremendous change since his appointment, from buying trucks to handheld radios to quick response and so on,”_ said @JaniceBaby23, who, like many Nigerians, has observed the shift firsthand. Similarly, @Afooolarry praised the leadership, saying, _“Kudos to the Hon. Olubumi Tunji-Ojo BTO, CG Engr Abdulganiyu Jaji, and leadership of #FFS for the strides made — faster emergency response, launch of the Walkie-Talkie system, fire academy project underway, new fire trucks commissioned, and improved staff welfare.”_ That same spirit of approval was echoed by @BadmusFranca, who noted, _“The federal fire service has enhanced its operations under the leadership of the Hon. Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the CC, #FFS, Engr. Jaji with the introduction of walkie-talkie phones for improved communication, the establishment of a new fire academy, the commissioning of new fire vehicles, and enhanced staff welfare. We commend these efforts and call for continued improvements to safeguard lives and properties.” Reflecting on how far the agency has come, @eniolaofLagos tweeted, “For so long, the Federal Fire Service, #FFS, seemed non-functional, but for another magic wand of the #RenewedHope under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has taken the #FirePrevention game to another level. A good job by the CG.” Speaking to the operational capacity and training, @Omobaba_saki shared, “The #FFS under the leadership of Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and CG Engr. AbdulGaniyu Jaji has been able to respond rapidly to fire incidents with state of the art fire service trucks, with modern facilities to help combat fire. Also the Federal Fire Service to get World Class Academy. This will enable them train men and women of the fire service in modern ways and introduce them to new technologies and also fire service safety precautions to observe when there is an incident.” And in a more policy-forward tone, @AbuAbdulHameed7 tweeted, “Under the leadership of CG FFS Engr. Jaji and HMI Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Federal Fire Service has witnessed transformative reforms including deployment of new response vehicles, reduced emergency response time, upgrade of the National Fire Academy, staff promotions, and structural expansion plans. With the proposed Federal Fire & Rescue Service Bill, the service has the potential to become a self-sufficient, revenue-generating institution capable of massive employment.” These real, unfiltered statements demonstrate just how much progress has been made—and how well it is being received by the very people the agency was established to protect. While we celebrate these achievements, it is important to remember that this must be the beginning, not the peak. Fire outbreaks remain a significant risk in homes, markets, schools, and industries across Nigeria, especially during the harmattan and festive seasons, as well as power surges. The Federal Fire Service must continue to expand its reach to underserved regions, intensify fire safety education, improve partnerships with state and local authorities, and sustain the momentum of innovation. The proposed Fire & Rescue Service Bill must also receive wide support to ensure the agency becomes more autonomous, responsive, and accountable. In my opinion, the leadership of Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and CG Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji has ushered in a new era of excellence within the Federal Fire Service. From faster response times to technology upgrades, training investments, and staff motivation, the Service is clearly undergoing a transformation rooted in vision, discipline, and action. But there is still work to be done. The FFS must build on these foundations and rise to meet even greater expectations. Nigerians are not just hopeful, they are watching. Now more than ever, we must keep the fire of progress burning.

In a bold move to curb smartphone theft, Google has unveiled a powerful new feature that could render stolen Android devices useless — and unsellable. With over 25 million phones reportedly stolen in Nigeria in just one year, this development could be a game-changer. The new security tool, called “Theft Detection Lock”, uses artificial intelligence to detect suspicious behaviour, such as someone forcefully taking a phone and running. Once triggered, the phone locks automatically, preventing access or resale. The feature also includes offline device locking, meaning even if thieves switch off mobile data or Wi-Fi, the phone stays protected. This is a major leap from previous measures that relied heavily on network connection to track or lock stolen devices. Tech experts and law enforcement officials in Nigeria have hailed the move, saying it could significantly deter phone snatching and organised theft rings that thrive on reselling stolen smartphones. “The resale value is the primary motivation. If the phone is worthless after theft, the crime loses appeal,” says Ifeanyi Obiora, a Lagos-based cybersecurity analyst. Google confirmed the feature will roll out later this year, starting with Android 15. It’s expected to make its way to millions of devices, offering hope to users in high-theft regions like Nigeria. As the nation grapples with phone-related crime, this could be the biggest digital intervention yet.

In a move that is set to redefine the face of broadcasting in Nigeria, TVC Communications has unveiled the country’s first set of Artificial Intelligence (AI) news anchors. The media company made this known in a press release on Wednesday night. This groundbreaking innovation, spearheaded by its flagship brand TVC News, introduces AI-driven bulletins in English, Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, and Pidgin. The move positions TVC Communications at the forefront of tech-driven journalism in Africa, as it aims to bridge linguistic gaps across Nigeria’s diverse population of over 240 million people. According to the media company, the development aligns with its strategic goal of expanding coverage and delivering news in languages familiar to its wide-ranging audience. It, however, noted that the AI anchors were designed to complement the work of human journalists, not replace them. Verydarkman receives blast from Actor Stanley Ontop over TVC request, shares alleged evidence “We are excited to be at the forefront of this innovation in Nigeria’s broadcast industry,” said the Chief Executive Officer of TVC Communications, Victoria Ajayi. “Our AI news anchors will enable us to take our news coverage to the next level as we showcase our commitment to leveraging technology to drive growth using innovation.” Ajayi emphasised that the integration of AI is a support mechanism for human talent within the organisation, which she described as a “constellation of seasoned professionals.” While the introduction of AI in media has sparked concerns globally ranging from misinformation to deep fakes, TVC Communications assured the public that proactive steps were already in place to mitigate such risks. These include watermarking of AI-generated content and implementing robust verification processes. “Our commitment is to continue to raise the standard and maintain the highest sense of integrity, professionalism, and the assurance to our audience that we will always take proactive steps to mitigate the risks that these challenges may pose,” the company stated. The organisation also noted that all AI-delivered content will be thoroughly reviewed and approved by a team of trained journalists and editors, in full compliance with the Nigerian Broadcasting Code. Editorial oversight, the company added, will ensure that AI-generated content maintains accuracy, balance, neutrality, and cultural sensitivity. The fusion of technology and journalism, TVC believes, marks a leap toward the future of news broadcasting on the continent.