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Why NCC suspended issuance of three communications licenses in Nigeria

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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced a temporary suspension of issuance of Communications licences in three categories.

 

 

This is contained in a public notice signed by Reuben Muoka Director, Public Affairs, NCC.

 

Accordingly, the comission explianed that the suspension is necessary to enable the Commission to conduct a thorough review of several key areas within these categories, including the current level of competition, market saturation and current market dynamics.

The public notice reads:

TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF THE ISSUANCE OF COMMUNICATIONS LICENCES IN THREE (3) CATEGORIES

In line with its powers under the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003 to grant and renew licences, promote fair competition and develop the Communications Industry, the Nigerian Communications Commission (the Commission) hereby informs all stakeholders of a temporary suspension on issuance of new licences in the following categories:

1.    Interconnect Exchange Licence

2.    Mobile Virtual Network Operator Licence

3.    Value Added Service Aggregator Licence

This temporary suspension is necessary to enable the Commission to conduct a thorough review of several key areas within these categories, including the current level of competition, market saturation and current market dynamics.

The public is invited to note that during the suspension period commencing on 17th of May, 2024, new application for the aforementioned licences will not be accepted. This is without prejudice to pending applications before the Commission which will be considered on their merits.

Any enquiries or clarifications in respect of this Suspension Notice should be forwarded to: licensing@ncc.gov.ng.

Biafra Liberation selfless movement – BRGIE

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Biafra Republic Government In-Exile has said that the Biafra Liberation movement is a selfless endeavour.

The BRGIE’s prime Minister, Simon Ekpa, disclosed this in a report he endorsed on Friday.

The report chronicled how Ekpa had helped in the pursuit of Biafra Liberation.

“The struggle for Biafra’s independence has been a prolonged and diverse political saga that traces back to the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970). In recent years, this cause has found a new advocate in Simon Ekpa, whose influence inspires both local and international bodies. As the elected Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE), Ekpa has injected renewed vigour into the independence movement, drawing support and scrutiny.

“Ekpa’s rise to the forefront of the Biafran independence movement did not occur overnight. It resulted from years of activism, legal expertise, and political engagement, both in his native Nigeria and abroad in Finland, where he has resided since 2007. His journey from a local athlete to a recognized leader within the Biafran cause reflects a strong commitment to his roots and the aspirations of his people.

“In 2023, Ekpa was formally elected Prime Minister of the BRGIE through an electoral process designed to reflect the will and aspirations of the Biafran diaspora. This was no less than a major achievement for Ekpa and the entire independence movement, providing a new face and a renewed sense of direction.

“At the core of Ekpa’s leadership are strategies deeply rooted in the ideology of reclaiming Biafran identity and autonomy. His approach combines legal advocacy, international diplomacy, and public engagement to advance the cause. By leveraging his background in law, Ekpa has articulated the Biafran demand for independence through frameworks that resonate within international legal and human rights circles.

“Moreover, Ekpa’s strategies extend beyond mere rhetoric. They involve practical engagement with international bodies, efforts to unify the various factions of the Biafran movement, and initiatives to raise global awareness about the Biafran situation. His leadership style is characterized by a blend of confidence and strategic diplomacy, aiming to position the Biafran cause on the global stage as a legitimate and urgent matter for international deliberation.

“The reception of Ekpa’s leadership has varied widely. Domestically, within the Biafran communities in Nigeria and the diaspora, he is viewed by many as a symbol of hope and resistance against perceived oppression. His articulate presentation of the Biafran case has galvanized a significant portion of the population, who view his leadership as a beacon of potential change.

“Internationally, however, the response has been more complex. While Ekpa has succeeded in drawing attention to the Biafran cause, the international community remains cautious mainly. Recognition by foreign governments and international organizations is hampered by diplomatic sensitivities and the geopolitical implications of supporting secessionist movements. Nonetheless, Ekpa’s efforts have led to increased dialogue about Biafra in international forums, reflecting a growing awareness and concern about the region’s political status.

“Despite his recognized role, Ekpa has faced allegations of being a “self-proclaimed” prime minister. These allegations overlook the legitimate electoral process facilitated by the BRGIE, which was conducted with the intent to ensure fairness and transparency. By addressing these misconceptions directly, Ekpa emphasizes the democratic basis of his leadership and challenges the narrative that seeks to undermine the Biafran government-in-exile’s credibility.

“Simon Ekpa’s impact on the Biafran independence movement is undeniable. His ascendancy to the role of Prime Minister of the BRGIE has begun a new era in the fight for Biafran independence, characterized by a more organized and internationally engaged approach. As he continues to navigate the complex interplay of domestic support and international diplomacy, Ekpa’s leadership remains essential in shaping the future of the Biafran independence movement.

“His efforts to consolidate local and diasporic support and engage with the global community highlight a strategic approach that hopes to achieve what has been a centuries-old aspiration for many Biafrans: recognition and independence”, the report said.

ICPC: Woman convicted for forging Abba Kyari’s Signature Bags One-Year Jail Term

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The Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Gwagwalada, Abuja has sentenced a business woman and mother of five children, Mrs. Ramat Mercy Mba to one-year imprisonment for her involvement in employment scam and forging of the signature of the late Abba Kyari, the Chief of Staff to the former President, Muhammadu Buhari.

ICPC acting spokesperson, Demola Bakare disclosed this in a statement on Friday.

Recal that the presiding judge, Hon. Justice Ibrahim Muhammad had last week, deferred the sentencing of the convict till Thursday but directed that she should be remanded in Suleja Correctional Centre.

ICPC had arraigned Mba in June, 2022 on a 5-count charge bordering on cheating, fraud and forgery contrary to Section 13 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000 and Sections 320 (b), 366 of the Penal Code Cap 89 laws of Northern Nigeria.

In the course of the trial, the Commission, through its Prosecutor, Mr. Hamza Sani had led evidence before the court on how the convict committed the offence some time in 2020 when she collected N4.5 million from several job seekers promising to secure jobs for them with the ICPC and National Air Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).

Furthermore, the documentary evidence tendered shows that the convict fraudulently forged a letterhead of the Office of the Chief of Staff to former President Buhari, Abba Kyari, and his signature.

The letter, addressed to the ICPC Chairman was a request for the recruitment of three individuals by the Commission.

However, the late Chief of Staff, in a written correspondence that was also tendered in court as exhibit, distanced himself or his office from authorising the letter.

In his judgement on 9th May, 2024, the trial judge, Justice Muhammad convicted the mother of five children on counts 1, 2, 3 and 5 that deal with cheating and forgery while she was discharged on count 4 that deals with felony.

Justice Muhammad, during the sentence hearing on Thursday pronounced a six-months jailed term or N100,000 option of fine on counts 1, 2 and 3 on the convict.

The presiding judge, who emphasized the status of the convict as a first time offender and a mother also sentenced her to one-year imprisonment or N150,000 option on fine on count 5 which borders on forgery.

Stop using pre-registered SIM cards- NCC tells Nigerians

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NCC
The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has issued a stern warning to Nigerians on the dangers of purchasing pre-registered SIM cards.
The Commission emphasized that this practice is illegal and could lead to severe consequences, including imprisonment.
The NCC highlighted that individuals using such SIM cards might inadvertently become implicated in crimes such as identity theft, financial fraud, kidnapping, and armed robbery.
Moreover, the NCC pointed out that the use of pre-registered SIM cards compromises the accuracy of consumer information and hampers efforts to track criminals effectively.
By using such SIM cards, the reliability of data collected on consumers is undermined, making it challenging for authorities to identify and apprehend the actual perpetrators of crimes.
The NCC’s message aims to educate the public on the risks associated with pre-registered SIM cards and encourage compliance with legal guidelines to enhance national security.

Why we should boost energy efficiency in Nigeria’s cooling sector- DG ECN

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The director-general, Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi (sixth from right) flanked by other stakeholders during the workshop in Abuja.

The director-general of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi has called on stakeholders to upgrade the Minimum Energy Performance Standard (MEPS) to boost energy efficiency in the cooling sector for enhanced value.

He made this statement at the one-day stakeholders workshop presenting the proposed Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for air conditioners in Nigeria, organised by the Energy Commission of Nigeria, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and others.

The objective is to expedite the adoption of energy-efficient air conditioners with environmentally friendly refrigerants used in residential, commercial and public buildings, aligning with Nigeria’s climate targets in the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).

MEPS aims to curb energy emissions in the cooling system and enhance the efficiency of our cooling systems.

Abdullahi recalled that the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme, initiated the project – Scaling Up Energy-Efficient and Climate-Friendly Cooling in Nigeria’s NDC Revision in February 2022. The project is financially supported by the Clean Cooling Collaborative.

He emphasised that Nigeria is the largest market in Africa, which extends to the cooling sector and will continue to witness a surge in demand for air conditioners.

“With the current population growth, coupled with improving lifestyles, urbanisation and escalating global warming, Nigeria will remain a rapidly expanding market for air conditioners (ACs) and other cooling devices,” he stated.

Abdullahi pointed out that most ACs used in the country fall below internationally acceptable minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) in terms of energy efficiency ratio (EER). Hence, the significance of this Workshop on the proposed MEPS cannot be overstated. One crucial project component is the enhancement of minimum energy performance.

He stressed that the goal of this project is to review the MEPS of air conditioners. To achieve this goal, ECN, with technical support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and in coordination with the National Technical Committee, conducted a study titled ‘Nigeria Air Conditioners Market Assessment.’

“The assessment involved gathering essential technical and market data, including energy efficiency levels, cooling capacities, air conditioner types, prices, market size and key market players in the Nigerian market.

“The study aimed to empower policymakers and regulators to make informed decisions for updating the MEPS and energy label policies to deliver cost-effective energy savings. The study results formed the basis for outlining new proposed standards for air conditioners in Nigeria.

“The study results informed the development of the ‘Recommendation MEPS and labels for air conditioners in Nigeria’ under the project,” he emphasised.

He mentioned that the revised National Energy Policy and its implementation master plan, containing energy efficiency policies approved by the Federal Executive Council on April 27, 2022, was officially gazetted and launched on May 8, 2024 by the commission.

The National Cooling Action Plan (N-CAP), developed by the Federal Government through the Ministry of Environment, recognises the importance of promoting energy efficiency in the cooling sector.

He assured that the commission will ensure that the Standards Organisation of Nigeria sets standards according to our MEPS and ensures that the cost of products entering the market is reduced.

In his speech, the acting director of linkages, research and consultancy department, Energy Commission of Nigeria, as well as the project director, Mr. Samaila Zaku emphasised that the stakeholders’ workshop is a step towards sustainable development and aligning with Nigeria’s climate goals outlined in the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).

He revealed that the commission is embarking on an initiative to expand energy-efficient and environmentally friendly cooling solutions nationwide.

According to Zaku, today’s discussions will primarily focus on the proposed recommendations derived from a study on the market assessment of air conditioners.

This study provided insights for updating the minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) and energy label policies in the cooling sector. The objectives of today’s meeting are to review the draft of the proposed MEPS and seek input and support for the upgraded standards.

The head of electrical electronics at SON, Eng. Lawal Ismilia assured that SON will strive to enhance the efficiency of air conditioners in Nigeria and review the standards so that air conditioners consume less energy for effective cooling.

He stated, “SON will ensure that air conditioners use less energy for cooling because they currently consume excessive energy. We cannot afford to waste energy; we need to manage it effectively.”

He urged stakeholders to review these standards to meet international expectations and ensure efficient energy utilisation for industrialisation.

ICPC to Tackle Terrorism Financing as A Way of Preventing Illicit Financial Flows

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Amid rampant terrorism and financial misconduct, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has reaffirmed its dedication to combatting terrorism financing as a means to curtail illicit financial activities.

This commitment was reiterated yesterday by the ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN during a Multi-Stakeholders’ National Dialogue on preventing terrorism financing and violent extremism, organized by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) in partnership with Transparency International in Nigeria (TI-Nigeria) and the Inter-Governmental Action Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA ECOWAS), held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja.

In his address, Dr. Aliyu emphasized the Commission’s role as a beacon of hope, particularly in Nigeria’s North-Eastern region. He underscored ICPC’s relentless efforts in conveying a resolute message to the Nigerian populace, affirming its steadfast commitment to combat terrorism financing directly.

According to him, by targeting the root causes of illicit financial flows, ICPC aims not only to disrupt terrorist funding channels but also to uphold the integrity of global financial systems.

The ICPC Chairman also outlined the Commission’s determination to dismantle intricate networks facilitating illicit financial flows, which sustain terrorism through arms procurement, terrorist recruitment and operational logistics.

He stressed the essential nature of addressing terrorism financing, highlighting its pivotal role in debilitating extremist groups’ operational capacities and restoring peace and security to the northeast region of the country.

Moreover, Dr. Aliyu identified poverty and illiteracy as key drivers of terrorism in Nigeria noting that addressing these underlying issues is imperative to combat extremism and violent dissent.

The ICPC boss emphasized the direct correlation between governance failures, corruption and the prevalence of poverty and illiteracy, emphasizing the ICPC’s proactive role in combating these vices to prevent the proliferation of extremism and terrorism.

Recognizing the complexity of the fight against terrorism financing, Dr. Aliyu emphasized ICPC’s readiness to lead collaborative efforts with international partners, law enforcement agencies and financial institutions noting that ICPC’s efforts not only align with its mandate to prevent and combat corruption but also play a crucial role in safeguarding national and global security against the scourge of terrorism.

He was of the view that through a comprehensive strategy encompassing identification, tracking, and disruption of illicit funds fueling terrorist activities, the ICPC is upholding its mandate to combat corruption and significantly contribute to national and global security.

Auwal Ibrahim Musa, Executive Director of CISLAC, echoed concerns over the escalating financing of terrorist activities in Nigeria, citing adverse global terrorism indices and recent government identifications of entities involved in terrorism financing.

The CISLAC boss, therefore, stressed the need for collective action among stakeholders to combat terrorism and its adverse effects on poverty rates and internal displacement in the country.

Similarly, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), highlighted the prolonged suffering endured by Nigerians in the Northeast due to insurgency, banditry and kidnapping.

The EFCC chairman said that despite numerous interventions, the situation persists, necessitating collaborative efforts among anti-graft agencies, military and para-military organizations to combat terrorism financing effectively.

 

Halilu Tasks NASENI Finance Managers On Effective Resource Management

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L-R: Coordinating Director, Engineering Infrastructure Directorate, NASENI, Prof Bagudu Gwandangaji; Support Officer/NASEN Desk Officer, OAGF, Mr. Mustapha Marafa; Deputy Programme Manager, System Support and Sustainability Directorate, OAGF, Mr. Jeremiah Asanato; Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu; Coordinating Director, Finance and Accounts, NASENI, Alh Ibrahim Baba Dauda; Coordinating Director, Science Infrastructure Directorate, NASENI, Prof Umaru Gaya during a one-day sensitization workshop on Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) policy and guidelines for financial managers organised by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure and the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation held at NASENI Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO), National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu has underscored the importance of effective resource management, emphasizing the Agency’s responsibility in administering public funds for the benefit of Nigeria.

The EVC stated this while declaring open one-day sensitization workshop on Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) policy and guidelines for financial managers of NASENI in collaboration with the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) held at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.

The workshop was aimed at enhancing financial management practices for NASENI principal officers, directors, managing directors and accounting officers system-wide.

While urging the participants to take the workshop with all sense of purpose, the EVC/CEO called for accurate financial record-keeping and the adoption of innovative processes which remain integral in the GIFMIS policy. He stressed the significance of staff training and capacity development to ensure the discharge of duties to make NASENI a preferred public sector employer in Nigeria.

While warning staff on classified documents, Mr. Halilu said confidentiality in financial management is a crucial aspect and called for strict adherence to public service regulations regarding the integrity of official information.

He further emphasized the Agency’s 3Cs initiative of Collaboration, Creation, and Commercialization as NASENI’s core operating principles, expressing confidence in achieving the Agency’s goals in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Deputy Programme Manager, System Support and Sustainability Directorate, OAGF, Mr. Jeremiah Asanato, giving overview of the GIFMIS, said it is aimed at integrating budgeting and government expenditure. He emphasized that the policy will help to address irregularities, corruption, and other fraudulent activities in government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

In his vote of thanks, Coordinating Director,Finance and Accounts, NASENI, Alh. Ibrahim Baba Dauda, appreciated all Finance and Accounts Directorate staff from across NASENI centres system-wide for attending the workshop. He challenged them to start thinking of making NASENI an independent revenue-generating agency.

ICPC: Court Threatens Bench Warrant against Lawyer in N550 million Fraud Case

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A Federal High Court sitting in Maitama Abuja has threatened to issue a bench warrant against a legal practitioner, Barrister Ferdinand Baba Isa following his failure to appear in court in a N550 million fraud case filed against him by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

In a statement on Tuesday by ICPC acting spokesperson, Demola Bakare, Barrister Baba Isa, who is the second defendant in the N550m corruption case, was due to be arraigned in the court on the 10th May, 2024 but failed to show up when the case was mentioned.

The presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho said the failure of the defendant to appear before the Court depicted a blatant “lack of respect for the law” and a repeat of such would attract sanctions.

Barrister Baba Isa had earlier been arrested alongside his client, Mrs. Roseline Uche Egbuha for allegedly conniving to illegally lift restrictions on an account being investigated by ICPC.

The sum of N550 million discovered in a Guaranty Trust Bank account belonging to Mrs Egbuha had been placed under a ‘Post No Debit’ (PND) order pending investigations.

The Commission, however, found out that the full sum was transferred to an account named ‘FBI legal’ owned by Mr. Ferdinand Baba Isa on the 4th of June, 2020 with the lawyer claiming that an out of court settlement with the bank in question had legalised and facilitated the transaction.

The counsel representing the second defendant, Barrister N.I Usman failed to give any cogent reason to justify his client’s absence.

Counsel to the ICPC, Barrister Kemi Odogun thereafter moved for an adjournment due to the absence of the defendant.

After listening to the argument of both counsels, Justice Omotosho threatened to issue a bench warrant against the defendant, not minding his profession and standing in the society.

The matter was adjourned till the 11th of June, 2024 where all parties are expected to make an appearance.

Nigerian Govt reopens Registration Portal for  Data Protection Compliance Organizations

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Nigerian Govt reopens Registration Portal for  Data Protection Compliance Organizations

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) announces the reopening of registration for Organizations interested in becoming Data Protection Compliance Organizations (DPCOs). This decision comes as part of NDPC’s commitment to fostering a culture of accountability and transparency in data processing practices across Nigeria.

The registration portal, which was previously closed in 2023, has been revamped to accommodate new DPCO applicants. Through a robust Public-Private Partnership model, NDPC licenses private organizations to monitor, audit and report on compliance by Data Controllers and Data Processors in accordance with Section 33 of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023. This unique model, exclusive to Nigeria, has garnered attention from Data Protection Authorities worldwide.

With an estimated 500,000 Data Controllers operating in Nigeria, the demand for DPCOs has never been higher. Currently, NDPC has licensed approximately 183 DPCOs, leaving significant room for additional partnerships.

Beyond regulatory compliance, NDPC envisions the registration of new DPCOs will act as a catalyst for nurturing a robust data protection culture in Nigeria. By promoting awareness, conducting audits, ensuring compliance, and enhancing capacity-building initiatives, DPCOs contribute to safeguarding individuals’ privacy rights, foster trust and confidence in the digital space, and uphold legal and ethical standards in the data protection and privacy ecosystem.

Prospective DPCOs are encouraged to visit services.ndpc.gov.ng to commence the registration process.

NIN enrolments hit 107.34m as NIMC vows to deal with extortioners

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NIMC and DG

The enrolments in National Identity Number surged to 107,338,044 million as the National Identity Management Commission vowed to clamp down on extortioners scamming unsuspecting Nigerians.

The Director General of NIMC, Engr Abisoye Coker-Odusote, disclosed this during an interactive section with journalists on Friday in Abuja.

The NIN enrollment figure increased from N104-105 million, as recorded in December 2023.

She stated that the Commission is working to make NIN easier for all citizens, especially those in the hinterland.

According to her, NIMC is digitizing its services to reduce physical interface.

She stressed that the Commission would persecute any staff found collaborating with illegal perpetrators.

“All we are trying to do is to ensure that we provide a robust service for Nigerian citizens and legal residents. And to ensure that life is easy and seamless. One should not spend three to four hours in the NIMC office because of NIN services. It is something I will not allow to continue to happen. We will provide all necessary means to address the issue.

“We are clamping down extortioners parading themselves as NIMC staff. A lot of people have lost their money to extortioners.

“Any staff of NIMC that tries to work with illegal perpetrators will face disciplinary committee and be tried according to the Cybercrime Act 2015 and the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023. Same with any illegal perpetrators.

“We will make sure we create proper communication to gauge against extortioners.

She added that the Commission plans to review upward prices for its services to serve Nigerians better.

“We are going to review our rate. It is not going to be much, but it will be reviewed. We have not reviewed our rate for a long time. It is not going to be exorbitant”.

 

 

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