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Troops Eliminate 10,937 Terrorists, Apprehend 12,538 In 2024

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ALJAZIRAH
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Military Eliminates 65 Terrorists, Rescue 1,854 Victims – DHQ

Military High Command said troops deployed to various operations across the country had, in the last 12 months, eliminated 10,937 terrorists, apprehended 12,538 and rescued 7,063 hostages.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major-General Edward Buba, made this known while briefing newsmen on the operations of the military in  2024, yesterday in Abuja.

Buba said troops significantly degraded the fighting capabilities of terrorists, recording 16,171 surrendered terrorist combatants and their families, during the course of the year.

He noted that they recovered 8,815 weapons, 228,004 ammunitions and denied oil thieves an estimated N68.4 billion.

The director gave the breakdown of the recoveries as: 4,332 AK47 rifles, 1,244 locally fabricated guns; 838 dane guns; 259 pump action guns; 128,496 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo and 45,445 rounds of 7.62mm NATO.

Others are 5,103 cartridges, 2,131 assorted arms and 29,176 assorted ammunitions.

In the North-East, he said troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised 3,151 terrorists, arrested 2,503 suspects and rescued 1,605 kidnap hostages within the year.

Buba  disclosed that they also recovered 1,802 AK47 rifles, 446 fabricated rifles; 438 dane guns; 378 assorted arms; 42,439 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo; 16,336 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and 12,429 assorted ammunitions in the North- East.

He said in the North-Central, troops of Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke, neutralised 1,047 violent extremists, arrested 3,001 and rescued 1,782 kidnap hostages.

Buba, added that troops recovered 549 AK47 rifles, 321 fabricated guns; 629 assorted arms; 19,577 rounds of 7.62mm special; 2,962 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and 4,084 assorted ammunitions.

In the North-West, he said troops of Operation Hadarin Daji, in the course of the year, neutralised 2,906 terrorists, arrested 1,826 suspects and rescued 2,616 kidnap hostages.

According to him, they recovered 1,450 AK47 rifles, 477 fabricated guns; 576 assorted arms; 31,999 rounds of 7.62mm special; 14,960 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and 6,564 assorted ammunitions.

Under Operation Whirl Stroke, Buba said troops neutralised 742 terrorists, arrested 1,877 suspects and rescued 595 kidnap hostages.

He noted that they equally recovered 364 AK47 rifles, 302 assorted arms; 12,422 rounds of 7.62mm special; 5,991 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and 2,818 assorted ammunitions.

Buba, said in the South-South, troops of Operation Delta Safe neutralised 78 terrorists, arrested 2,357 persons involved in crude oil theft and rescued 93 kidnap hostages.

According to him, they also blocked oil thieves from stealing 56.2 million litres of crude oil; 9.7 million litres of AGO; 95,595 litres of DPK and 156,527 litres of PMS.

“Furthermore, troops recovered 538 assorted weapons; 13,198 assorted ammunition; destroyed 2,019 wooden boats and 2,612 illegal refining sites,’’ he said.

In the South-East, troops of Operation UDO KA sustained the momentum in finding, flushing out and destroying IPOB/ESN terrorists at locations in which they hibernate.

He said troops intercepted and arrested several IPOB/ESN terrorists, collaborators; gun runners and informants; as well as neutralised 734 terrorists; arrested 974 suspects and rescued 372 kidnap hostages.

“Additionally, troops seek to continue to heighten collaboration with neighbouring countries and regional bodies in order to tackle the menace of terrorism.

“Importantly, troops in the battlefield are in high spirits, fully committed, devoted and believe in the justness of the cause.

“On the whole, the war is not for the armed forces alone, but for all citizens. The military, therefore, urges  support in order to win the war,’’ Buba said. NAN

Bago Lauds Tinubu Over Reopening Of Warri Refinery

By
ALJAZIRAH
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0

Niger State governor, Umaru Bago, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his relentless efforts that has resulted in the re-opening of Warri refinery.

This was contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, in Minna on Monday.

Bago described the development as a giant step towards restoring the hope of Nigerians through local production and refining of crude.

He said reviving Warri refinery after several years of being inactive indicates that Tinubu is willing to change the narrative in the petroleum downstream sector.

He said: “Warri Refinery, which is operating at 60 percent capacity and producing 125,000 barrels per day, will further compliment the Port Harcourt refinery which was also revived in November.

”It is a testament to President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda to better the lives of Nigerians as a major oil-producing nation.”

The governor also acknowledged the efforts of the management of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, led by Mele Kyari, in making the presidential mandate a reality.

He expressed optimism that Kaduna and Port Harcourt refineries would soon become fully operational.

Bago said the successful re- opening of these refineries will make significant impact and inspire confidence among citizens. NAN

You are the Enemies of FCT Football ,FA Chairman Mouktar Mohammed tells aggrieved Members

By
Joel
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0

According to the words of great philosopher, Ivo Andric, in one of his numerous wise sayings on guilt and guilty conscience, he opined: “There comes a time when a man finds himself in front of a dark uncrossable abyss, which he himself has spent year digging. He cannot go forward, and he has no way back. Words have failed, tears won’t help, and who would he call out to? He can’t even remember his own name. Then the man sees that on this god’s green earth there is but one true suffering: the torment of guilty conscience”.

Another renowned writer, once said, “A lie tears a hole in the fabric of factuality. Consistent lying, metaphorically speaking, pulls the ground from under our feet and provides no other ground on which to stand.”
This clearly defines the up and coming latest “let the world hear our voice” elements of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association, FCT FA.
To educate and enlighten those who aren’t informed, the FCT FA under the leadership of Alhaji Adam Mouktar Mohammed has overtime enjoyed a lot of goodwill from stakeholders and the football fraternity, all over. Thanks to his open door policy.
He has always seen and treated everyone as equal without prejudice. Sadly, some unscrupulous elements took advantage of this humility at various times perpetuate unsporty activities. But they have failed at conception.
The bye-election at Abaji came with so much tension. The Polity heated and uncertainties clouded the atmosphere. In his nature of preaching and serving peace, the FCT FA Chairman had to overlook some things for a smooth election. He never wanted the notion of what these “elements” now want to make the public believe. The notion of “the once peaceful FCT FA has now been turned into a battlefield like what we see in star wars”.
As the bye-election was fixed, for peace to reign, one of the contestants, a board member was allowed to contest even when he should have resigned his position as a board member. His claim was that, ‘there were no clear cut rules so he could not be advised on what to do.’ The chairman honoured the verdict and he was cleared to contest.

The date came, all converged at Abaji and set for the bye-election and he (the contestant and a board member from Gwagwalada) openly threatened the Sec of the FA, Coach Haruna Ilerika, in the full glare of everyone hitting his chest 3 times and looking him in the eyes to tell him that, he will kill the Secretary. The key stakeholders, instead of disqualifying him or asking the security agents to whisk him away so he can face the charges of threat to life, calmed the situation and that individual was still allowed to contest after such brazen rascality. Unfortunately, he is known for such in the FCT Football community. Where then is the allegation of high handedness against the FCT FA Chairman.

It was time for election at Abaji, the agent of same contestant’s agent was caught with a knife at the election venue. Findings reveal that, the said agent also doubles as his team coach in Gwagwalada where he represents. Revealing isn’t it?

The security operatives, present at the venue arrested the suspect (the agent) and took away to face the law. Shockingly, this said candidate has denied the agent, but it was obvious that there was an agenda to take someone’s life by this candidate and board member with his cohorts who have sworn to deal with the Chairman and other board members.

What if the ‘killer’ agent had succeeded in hurting someone because of his pay master’s insatiable quest for power?

What is Mouktar’s crime? He has had enough of their atrocities and the use of their power to perpetuate evil in the FCT.

A simple inquest into what might have caused this, as the FCT FA has always witnessed peace and tranquility during and after elections. Even the NFF scribe is in shock as he had not heard of any issues with FCT FA nor the elections process before until some law defying elements begged to join the football fraternity in the FCT with the guise of helping to improve it alongside the board.

As part of its core mandate, it is worthy of note that, an NFF legal department staff was sent to observe the bye-election. He witnessed the shameful display by the board member and his empty barrel praise singers.

It is imperative also to note that the same candidate before the bye-election rained abuses on the chairman in a personal message to him which the chairman did not take to heart. Rather he allowed the process to go on hitch free in his magnanimity. We all know this cannot be tolerated in any FA in this country. The soft spoken Mouktar was looked at as a push over until he came to restore sanity after allowing people prance around in free roles in the FCT causing havoc and pain.

Just last week when the Ethics and disciplinary committee was set to look into what disturbed the peace of the FCT FA which no one in particular was asked to investigate, the failed candidate in the bye-election (obviously he was destined to lose) begged the chairman and board members to forgive him, pledging loyalty to the leadership of the FA under Mouktar. We have it on record. Not surprising as Leopard never changes skin, today he is singing a different tune.

A clear conscience, they say, fears no accusation. So why is he sprinting amok and sadly against the direction of his shadow, saying he is being witch hunted. What is he afraid of? The truth? It will surely be made public.

Should we continue in iniquity for grace to abound? We all respond GOD FORBID.

NPC Registered Over 10 Million Children Nationwide

By
Joel
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0

Joel Ajayi

The National Population Commission has registered and offered birth certificates to over ten million children nation wide.

The Chairman of the commission Alhaji Nasir Isa Kwara stated this while speaking to journalists after the First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu presented a birth certificate to the baby of the year in Asokoro general hospital, Abuja.

Represented by the Federal Commissioner from Katsina, Mr Bala Banya the Chairman explained that the commission would leave no stone unturned until every child born in Nigeria was registered and offered a birth certificate.

He said with the digitization of the registration system and collaboration with the Primary Health Care Agency, children wherever they are born would be registered.

The Chairman called on all parents and guardians to register there child as it is totally free.

The Director General of the Commission, Dr Telson Osifo Ojogun stressed that, the commission has concluded plans to establish over four thousand registration centers throughout the country to bring registration centers closer to the people.

The DG also noted that the commission was taken advantage of available technology to ensure every child registered, have an identity that cannot be duplicated anywhere.

He appreciated the first Lady who was represented by the wife of the vice president, Hajiya Nana Shetima for presenting the certificate to the baby of the year.

Dr Ojogun also urged Nigerians to register their deaths with the commission to enable it maintain a clean register.

New Year: YPP Chair Urges Tinubu On Political Reforms

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ALJAZIRAH
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0

By Caleb Ishaya, Abuja

National Chairman of the Young Progressives Party, YPP, Comrade Bishop Amakiri, has said that President Bola Tinubu’s achievements will not be complete until the conduct of local government elections is no longer the responsibility of the State Independent Electoral Commissions, SIECs.

Amakiri, stated this in a letter written to Tinubu, said , “This  can be achieved if you support our position that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, should take over the responsibility of conducting local council elections for the purpose of equity and fairness”.

The letter titled “Power is Transient and Time is Slipping Away”, seen by AljazirahNigeria quoted him as saying that “As we step into the New Year, I am compelled to share my thoughts on the state of our nation. 

“As the National Chairman of the Young Progressives Party, YPP, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles and triumphs of our great nation.

“I must commend your administration’s efforts in certain areas. The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, has been a shining light in your administration, driving efforts towards local government financial autonomy”.

According to him, one of the reasons development has been stagnant at the local level is because this tier of government has been hijacked by governors who have turned themselves into emperors, forgetting that power is transient.

The YPP Chairman, however, pointed out that Tinubu’s landmark achievement will not be complete until the conduct of local government elections is no longer the responsibility of SIECs. 

“This, can be achieved if you support our position that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, should take over this responsibility for equity and fairness”, he said.

Besides, he commended some of Tinubu’s appointees noting that the Minister of Internal Affairs, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has introduced technological innovations in several agencies under his Ministry, especially the Nigeria Immigration Service, where passport procurement has become seamless.

In addition, the recent introduction of e-gate technology has helped streamline the immigration process and improve border security.

Similarly, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has also made significant strides in infrastructure development.

The challenges are enormous, no doubt, but you can do more than you are currently doing. The first step is for you to reassess your leadership style and make radical changes in your cabinet. Reviewing your policies on fuel subsidy and floating of our currency may not be a bad idea. Avoid listening to those sycophants in the corridors of power who do not mean well for this nation. It is essential to cut the cost of governance by revisiting the Oronsaye report, and it must be done with sincerity.

“We cannot continue to do things the same way and expect a different result. Judicial and Electoral Reforms are inevitable if you must leave an enduring legacy. The latter can be addressed by adopting most of the recommendations in the Justice Uwais Electoral Reform report, in addition to some of our party’s recommendations submitted to the NASS Committee on Electoral reform where we proposed.

For instance, the compulsory transmission of election results to the IREV portal, independent appointment of INEC officials, and unconditional vacation of seats by lawmakers after decamping from the platform upon which they won elections.

“We are concerned about the threat of Nigeria sliding into a one-party state due to the constant defection of opposition lawmakers to the ruling party and you should be concerned too because of the future of our democracy.

“Judicial reform on the other hand must be carried out with patriotism because the perceived rot in the judicial system, which is like cancer, if allowed to fester will eat away at citizen’s faith in democracy.

Remember your Excellency, that the judiciary you fail to reform today, while in power may fail you tomorrow, when you are no longer in power.

On the efforts by insecurity agents in the country, the party commended the armed forces for their tireless efforts in tackling this hydra-headed monster that has now become an existential threat. 

“While we continue to pray for the repose of the souls of our gallant men and women who have died in the line of duty, you must be deliberate as the Commander-in-Chief to demand accountability in the use of funds allocated to Defence. The welfare of our military personnel must be prioritized with massive investments in intelligence, technology, and modern hardware if we must win this war,” he stated.

On the issue of tax reform, he it is a wonderful initiative that could not have come at a better time but while at it, we emphasize the need for wider consultation and engagement with key stakeholders to resolve areas of disagreement.

“Mr. President, Nigerians have been patient, but their patience should not be taken for granted. Time is running out and according to Robin Sharma, it is slipping away like grains of sand never to return again.

 As you move into the second half of your current tenure, “we urge you to take decisive action while time is still on your side to address our nation’s challenges as highlighted in my letter and consider the suggested solutions for the sake of posterity.

“This is wishing you and all Nigerians a happy and more prosperous 2025 filled with pro-masses policies!

NCCC Backs Governor Bala Mohammed Over Tax Reform Bills

By
ALJAZIRAH
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0
PDP

By Blessing Otobong-Gabriel

The Leadership of the North Central Citizens Council, NCCC, has thrown support behind the Bauchi State Governor, Governor Bala Mohammed on the continuous debate about the Tax Reform Bills.

The group made this known in a statement on Tuesday showing solidarity to the statement made by the Governor on the need for the president to withdraw the bill as the North may be forced to “show its true color.

In a statement signed by the Coordinator of the organization Comrade Mohammed Eneji, said that the Leadership of the North Central Citizens Council, NCCC, wished to throw total support to the statement credited to the Governor of Bauchi State, His Excellency, Governor Bala Mohammed on the controversial Tax Reform Bills.

The statement was neither confrontational nor controversial as it speaks clearly the minds of an average northerner. It is important to the State categorically that northern Nigeria, especially the North Central also share the same sentiment on the bills. The economy is already in a mess, and northerners are the most hit in all the anti masses policies of president Tinubu.

“We hereby show our solidarity and support to Governor Bala from the North Central Zone.These tax reforms are anti-people. The government cannot continue to borrow with nothing to show. This is the position of our council.

“Governor Bala has the right to speak for his people as a Governor who forms a subnational under the Tinubu led government, as such deserves to be heard. Instead of Sunday Dare calling Governor Bala ‘s comments as a threat, the government should rather listen to the voice of reasoning which is the voice of the general North”.

“We from the North Central Zone advise the Presidency to heed to the warning of the Governor as frustration continues to mount of average citizens due to the current harsh economic situation, the North may be forced to withdraw their support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu if policies such as the Tax Reform Bills which is directly targeted on further plunging the region into abject poverty and under development sees the light of the day. We are going to canvas the entire region starting from our zone against Tinubu in the next election if these kinds of shenanigans continue”.

According to the group, this government has no empathy for the common man. These draconic policies will help the country as it will continue to enrich Lagos and other very few states, no state in the North Central stands a chance of benefiting from the proceeds of these bills, as such we are totally against the Tax Reform Bills.

The region are asking president to Provide adequate security for farmers to assess their farmlands which will boost agriculture and provide food for the citizens and for export, revive the Ajaokuta Steel company to full capacity, develop other Solid mineral resources in the entire northern region, open all land borders so that the region can be open for business again and develop all sea and dry ports among others.

Comrade Mohammed added, “If all of the above is put into consideration, then the region may be ready to accept any form of reform about tax system and the government will be seen as being just to all regions in Nigeria”.

Gov Eno Signs N995bn 2025 Appropriation Into Law

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ALJAZIRAH
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0

From INIOBONG SUNDAY, Uyo 

Akwa Ibom State governor, Umo Eno has signed the N955 billion 2025 ‘Budget of Consolidation and Expansion’ into law.

The governor assented to the bill at the State Executive Council, SEC, Chambers  of the Government House, Uyo, with the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Udeme Otong, members of the SEC and some legislators present. 

Speaking shortly after the ceremony, Governor Eno commended the Assembly for the expeditious passage of the appropriation bill, as well as the synergy and unity of purpose between the executive and  legislative arms in the implementation of government policies and programmes.

He sued for sustainable partnership and collaboration in order to deliver on the dividends of democracy to the people in line with his administration’s ARISE Agenda, covering agriculture, rural development, infrastructure and social empowerment

 It would be recalled that the House of Assembly had on December 24, passed the 2025 budget into law, following the adoption of the report by the Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation and Finance, Dr Itoro Etim.

Following the adoption, the House had dissolved into the Committee of the Whole to consider the report, after which it was read the third time and passed into law by the lawmakers.

The budget has a component of recurrent expenditure of N300 billion and N655 billion for capital expenditure. 

The 2025 budget outlay represents a three percent increase from the N923.412 billion revised provision for 2024.

MTN Crossed N4trn Ahead Of Q4 Earnings

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ALJAZIRAH
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0

MTN Plc has again crossed the N4 trillion market value in the equities segment of the Nigerian Exchange, following a positive price movement.

Over a short trading period last week, the telecom stock gained 10.54% on the back of a Santa Claus visit that lasted till Friday’s close.

Data from the local bourse showed that MTN’s share price rose to N194 from N175.5 due to increased demand boosted by earnings expectations. 

The positive price movement lifted its market value to N4.073 trillion on the Nigerian Exchange trading platform. This is about half of Airtel Africa Plc’s market value, its major arch rival in the Nigerian market.

With the fourth quarter earnings around the corner, investors expect MTN’s decision to localise deals and debts to improve its performance.

The company has been borrowing from the local debt capital market to fund its working capital and meet other needs.

In the telecom segment, it has remained a category king with strong earnings and better profitability that underscore its strong market share. But its earnings performance had come under intense pressure due to huge FX losses in the past quarters.

Still, MTN is trading at a significant discount of more than 39% to its 52-week high in the Nigerian equities market.

NGX Bucks 2015-2019 Trend, As Index Gains 37.65% In 2024

By
ALJAZIRAH
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0

By Ngozi Nwatu, Abuja 

Nigerian Exchange, NGX, Limited has marked a remarkable turnaround, breaking away from the poor performance of the 2015–2019 period to thrive in the 2020s. Following the oil price crash in 2015 and the ensuing recession in 2016, the 2020s have ushered in a period of unprecedented growth for Nigeria’s stock market.

Since 2020, the All-Share Index, ASI, has delivered a stellar return of 283.45 per cent, climbing from 26,842.07 points at the end of 2019 to 102,926.40 points as of December 2024. Standout years include 2020, 2023, and 2024, as investors sought higher real returns from equities amid negative yields in the fixed-income markets. The index closed 2024 with an impressive annual growth of 37.65 per cent.

The depreciation of the naira, driven by macroeconomic reforms by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and the federal government, has significantly boosted the performance of the stock market. Foreign capital inflow has steadily increased, rising from a low of 4 per cent in mid-2023 to an average of 16 per cent by November 2024.

Additionally, high-profile listings have energized trading activities on the exchange, providing investors with a broader range of blue-chip stocks. Notable entries include Geregu Power Plc, Transcorp Power Plc, Aradel Holdings, and BUA Foods.

 These listings have propelled the market capitalization from N12.79 trillion at the end of 2019 to N62.76 trillion as of December 2024, representing a meteoric increase of N49.97 trillion.

At the Closing Gong Ceremony marking the end of 2024 trading activities, NGX’s Chief Executive, Mr Jude Chiemeka, represented by the Head of Trading and Products, Mr Abimbola Babalola, commended key stakeholders, including the stockbroking community represented by the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, CIS, and the Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria, ASHON.

“2024 witnessed significant activity in the secondary market, a testament to the efforts of our trading license holders. 

Complementary macroeconomic fundamentals were instrumental, and we appreciate the impactful policymaking by the CBN and the Federal Ministry of Finance. 

We also commend the Securities and Exchange Commission for its effective oversight, especially during the smooth banking recapitalization process,” he said.

CIS President and Chairman of Council, Mr Oluropo Dada, and ASHON Chairman, Mr Sam Onukwue, represented by the 2nd Vice Chairman, Mrs Ify Ejezie, emphasized the pivotal role of stockbrokers in driving the capital market growth. They reiterated their commitment to advocating for policies that enhance market development.

Despite the impressive growth, challenges remain. According to Proshare’s 2025 market outlook, Nigeria’s capital market continues to grapple with high transaction costs, information asymmetry, monetary tightening, low trading volumes, and wide bid-ask spreads, all of which stifle liquidity. 

However, the report underscores the potential of leveraging the equity market through the listing of national assets, such as NNPC, to unlock liquidity and stimulate domestic and foreign investment.

Temi Popoola, GMD/CEO of Nigerian Exchange Group, reflected on the market’s resilience and growth trajectory: “Nigeria’s capital market has proven itself as a hub of resilience and innovation, consistently offering valuable opportunities for investors. 

The strong performance of our blue-chip companies over the past decade has been a key driver of returns, even amid challenging economic cycles. 

Inflationary pressures have made equities an attractive hedge, and strategic new listings have significantly boosted market activity.”

He highlighted the transformative impact of policy reforms: “Macroeconomic shifts, particularly in the oil and gas sectors and currency devaluation, have been transformative. These changes, coupled with the liberalization of exchange rates, have enhanced operational efficiency and contributed to the robust performance of listed companies.

As we approach 2025, we remain optimistic that continued reforms and a stable macroeconomic environment will sustain growth, boost liquidity, enhance investor confidence and deliver long-term value for all market participants.”

No Major Data Depletion On Nigeria’s Mobile Networks — NCC  

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ALJAZIRAH
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0

BY ALIYU GALADIMA, Abuja

Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, said its recent audit of all the mobile networks  shows that there is no major issue of data depletion contrary to claims and complaints by subscribers.

 Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Dr Aminu Maida, stated this while reviewing the activities of the telecom regulator in 2024.

He, however, noted that the audit, which was concluded in Q3 2024, showed that there were minor issues on the networks, which the regulator is currently working to address.

“We had a hypothesis that it is not true that there is data depletion issue in the industry. It could be perception. 

“So the first thing we did was that we immediately conducted a billing audit on the system of  major MNOs, using reputable auditors. That exercise was completed in Q3 of this year and surprisingly, we didn’t find any major issues,” he said.

Maida said another major milestone for the telecom regulator in the year was the conclusion of the implementation of the federal government’s policy on the linkage of National Identification Number, NIN, with SIMs.

According to him, this exercise provided a lot of opportunities for the digital economy and national security.

He added that with the conclusion of the implementation, every single SIM card in the country is now linked to a verified NIN.

He said the linkage now gives the telecom regulator a very strong foundation from a security perspective to work with law enforcement agencies and reliably give them the information of who owns what.

Maida emphasized that more importantly, the linkage gives Nigeria a foundation for the digital economy to build on.

“You would agree with me that almost every transaction we perform today, in one way or the other, links back to your mobile number, whether it is your e-commerce or whether it is your registration for JAMB or just generally any service that wants to reach you for customer support. 

“So having the ability to be able to clearly identify who knows what would instill a lot of confidence and integrity in the system, which would lay the right foundation for the digital economy,” the EVC said.

The compulsory linkage of NIN with SIM began in December 2020 when government directed telecommunication companies to bar unregistered SIM cards and SIMs that were not linked to NIN.

However, several deadlines were fixed until August this year when NCC fixed a final deadline of September 14 for not just linking, but also verification of all NINs linked with SIMs.

Before that, many telecom subscribers/consumers were unable to make or receive phone calls between July 28 and 29, as telecom operators barred millions of lines ahead of the July 31 deadline earlier fixed by the regulator.

This, however, led to chaos as many subscribers that besieged the telcos stores went violent. The action also coincided with a planned nationwide protest scheduled for August 1 to 10.

This prompted NCC to make a U-turn, by ordering all telecommunication companies in the country to reactivate all lines they had barred.

The telecom regulator later announced a final deadline of September 14 for all lines to be linked with verified NIN, after which all unlinked or unverified lines were blocked.

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