TodayPrice

Author: Chisom OZ

  • Baobab Nigeria supports small businesses with over ₦323bn loans

    Baobab Nigeria supports small businesses with over ₦323bn loans

    Baobab Microfinance, a leading provider of financial services to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and micro-entrepreneurs has further showcased its commitment to empowering businesses across Nigeria reaching over 407,000 customers.

    With a total loan volume exceeding N323 billion, Baobab has played a pivotal role in supporting the growth and development of countless businesses, contributing significantly to economic development and job creation in Nigeria. This is a statement of the company’s mission to empower small businesses in Nigeria.

    “At Baobab, we place our customers at the heart of our strategy and enhance more ways to build a sustainable financially inclusive society,” said Eric Ntumba, AG CEO, Baobab Nigeria. “These numbers reflect not just loans but opportunities for growth, innovation, and resilience for not only our customers but the society at large. Every loan we disburse shows our dedication to empowering individuals and businesses”

    He further commented, “In a time like this, seeing business ideas come alive is what we look forward to achieving at Baobab. Granting credit facilities to small businesses across Nigeria sets the country on a path for advancement and development and this is one key role we desire to fill in the financial services sector.”

    The impact of these loans has been felt across diverse sectors, from agriculture to commerce, trading, and transportation, helping individuals in the various sectors advance in their endeavors as well as impacting the Nigerian economy.

    Speaking on this significant impact, Dapo Ikupolati, Chief Business Officer, Baobab Nigeria said, “We remain committed to building a financially inclusive Nigeria, one loan at a time.  It is one of our goals to continue to expand our offerings to reach thousands of Nigerians seeking a better tomorrow. Last year 2024, we had a volume of over N92 billion loans disbursed and this shows how far we are willing to go to impact small businesses across Nigeria.”

    Baobab Nigeria has consistently demonstrated its dedication to financial inclusion by providing tailored financial products and services that cater to the unique needs of MSMEs. The bank’s focus on customer satisfaction, combined with its innovative approach to lending, has enabled it to build strong relationships with its clients and establish itself as a trusted partner in their growth journeys.

  • Sanwo-Olu to Police recruits: Uphold ethics, professionalism

    Sanwo-Olu to Police recruits: Uphold ethics, professionalism

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, charged the newly recruited Constables to uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism, as well as treat all citizens with respect and fairness, irrespective of their background.

    In his goodwill message at the Passing-OutParade ceremony of 10,000 Police Constables of 2022, held at the Police College Ikeja, the Governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Abimbola Hudenyin, emphasized that the recruits should never compromise their values, even in challenging situations but should rather, strive to do what was right and embrace continuous learning and professional development.

    While noting that 266 out of the 10,000 Constables who just completed the mandatory six-month course in four premier colleges and 12 Police Training Schools nationwide,

    were Lagosians, he reminded them that they would face difficult situations that would test their resolve and character when they would be deplored by their various units.

    According to the governor: “ . The challenges ahead will be daunting, as they are numerous and demanding. You will face difficult situations that will test your resolve and character.

    “Uphold the highest ethical standards, demonstrate professionalism in all your actions, and treat every citizen with respect and fairness, regardless of their background. Remember, the training you have received and the values you have learned.

    “I urge you to remember the oath you have taken today. It is a solemn commitment to uphold the law, protect lives and property, and serve the public with integrity, courage, and compassion. As you embark on this noble career, remember that you are now ambassadors of the Nigeria Police Force”.

    In his remark, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, said the event marked the culmination of six-months rigorous training program that had pushed the recruits to their physical and intellectual limits.

    Represented by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police ,Zone 2 Command, AIG Adegoke Fayoade , he disclosed that a significant majority of the newly graduated Police Constables, were posted to their states of origin, in pursuant to the Community Policing principle of the current police administration.

    This strategic deployment he explained, “ aims to augment ongoing law enforcement efforts and reinforce the fight against crime at the grassroots level. I am confident that these new officers will demonstrate exceptional professionalism, integrity, and dedication to service, thereby upholding the honour and prestige of the Police Force”.

    In the course of their training, the IGP said “ we instilled in these recruits the necessary orientation to effectively address the complex security challenges facing our nation, while adhering to the principles of the law. Our comprehensive and research based curriculum has equipped them with fundamentals to policing ethics, norms, and practices, as well as modern law enforcement principles. We have high expectations for this graduating class of Constables, and we are confident that they will uphold the values imparted to them during their training, thereby contributing to the enhancement of law enforcement in our country”.

    Earlier in her welcome address, the Commandant, Police College, Ikeja, CP Omolara Oloruntola, congratulated the Police Constables for their resilience and commitment to the rigorous training process. She admonished them to eschew corruption and uphold the principles of fundamental human rights as entrenched in the Nigerian Constitution.

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, charged the newly recruited Constables to uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism, as well as treat all citizens with respect and fairness, irrespective of their background.

    In his goodwill message at the Passing-OutParade ceremony of 10,000 Police Constables of 2022, held at the Police College Ikeja, the Governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Abimbola Hudenyin, emphasized that the recruits should never compromise their values, even in challenging situations but should rather, strive to do what was right and embrace continuous learning and professional development.

    While noting that 266 out of the 10,000 Constables who just completed the mandatory six-month course in four premier colleges and 12 Police Training Schools nationwide,

    were Lagosians, he reminded them that they would face difficult situations that would test their resolve and character when they would be deplored by their various units.

    According to the governor: “ . The challenges ahead will be daunting, as they are numerous and demanding. You will face difficult situations that will test your resolve and character.

    “Uphold the highest ethical standards, demonstrate professionalism in all your actions, and treat every citizen with respect and fairness, regardless of their background. Remember, the training you have received and the values you have learned.

    “I urge you to remember the oath you have taken today. It is a solemn commitment to uphold the law, protect lives and property, and serve the public with integrity, courage, and compassion. As you embark on this noble career, remember that you are now ambassadors of the Nigeria Police Force”.

    In his remark, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, said the event marked the culmination of six-months rigorous training program that had pushed the recruits to their physical and intellectual limits.

    Represented by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police ,Zone 2 Command, AIG Adegoke Fayoade , he disclosed that a significant majority of the newly graduated Police Constables, were posted to their states of origin, in pursuant to the Community Policing principle of the current police administration.

    This strategic deployment he explained, “ aims to augment ongoing law enforcement efforts and reinforce the fight against crime at the grassroots level. I am confident that these new officers will demonstrate exceptional professionalism, integrity, and dedication to service, thereby upholding the honour and prestige of the Police Force”.

    In the course of their training, the IGP said “ we instilled in these recruits the necessary orientation to effectively address the complex security challenges facing our nation, while adhering to the principles of the law. Our comprehensive and research based curriculum has equipped them with fundamentals to policing ethics, norms, and practices, as well as modern law enforcement principles. We have high expectations for this graduating class of Constables, and we are confident that they will uphold the values imparted to them during their training, thereby contributing to the enhancement of law enforcement in our country”.

    Earlier in her welcome address, the Commandant, Police College, Ikeja, CP Omolara Oloruntola, congratulated the Police Constables for their resilience and commitment to the rigorous training process. She admonished them to eschew corruption and uphold the principles of fundamental human rights as entrenched in the Nigerian Constitution.

  • FG advocates Africa’s permanent seat on UN Security Council

    FG advocates Africa’s permanent seat on UN Security Council

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, has advocated for Africa’s permanent membership on the UN Security Council, emphasising Nigeria’s suitability to represent the continent in the global body.

    This position was made in a statement by Alkasim Abdulkadir, Special Assistant on Media and Communication Strategy to the minister, on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Tuggar made these remarks during a panel discussion on the theme “Africa’s Momentum” at the ongoing World Economic Forum (WEF) summit, which runs from January 20 to 24, 2025, in Davos, Switzerland.

    Tuggar criticised Africa’s exclusion from the Security Council, noting that nearly 60 per cent of the Council’s resolutions addressed issues affecting the continent, yet Africa had no permanent seat.

    He pointed out that many of the Council’s decisions, such as the deforestation law that banned the purchase of goods from deforested land in Africa, have negative consequences for the continent.

    He also highlighted the failure to hold companies accountable for contributing to deforestation in Africa.

    The discussion, moderated by Bronwen Maddox, Director of Chatham House, also featured prominent speakers including Mohammed Nafti, Foreign Minister of Tunisia; Therese Wagner, Foreign Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo; and Matia Kasaija, Ugandan Minister of Finance.

    The panel discussed Africa’s role in global governance and the significance of the first 2025 G20 summit, which will take place in South Africa.

    Tuggar further elaborated on Nigeria’s global outlook under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, emphasising Nigeria’s strategic autonomy and nonalignment principles in its foreign relations.

    He also pointed out that the G20 summit in South Africa provided an opportunity to advocate for Nigeria’s inclusion as a member.

    “Nigeria’s involvement in South Africa’s liberation struggle and its ongoing support for South Africa solidifies our ties,” Tuggar noted.

    He highlighted Nigeria’s significant contribution to African development through initiatives like the Technical Aid Corps, which sent volunteer professionals across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific.

    Tuggar also stressed Nigeria’s non-threatening nature, stating that the country enjoyed good relations with its neighbours, which strengthened its global position.

    He argued that Nigeria’s unique role in the African Union’s Peace and Security Council further supported its case for representation on the global stage.

    Tuggar called for a return to commitments made by developed nations during the Rio Summit, particularly regarding the transfer of technology to developing countries.

    He emphasised that Africa, as a continent of 54 nations, should not be seen as a single entity but as a diverse and powerful region.

    Tuggar argued that Nigeria, with its large population and economic strength, was well-positioned to represent Africa on the global stage.

    He further highlighted Nigeria’s track record of supporting both African and global causes, asserting that these factors made the country a suitable candidate for representing the continent in the UN Security Council and other international forums. (NAN)

  • Schneider Electric’s Wuxi factory gains sustainability lighthouse status

    Schneider Electric’s Wuxi factory gains sustainability lighthouse status

    The World Economic Forum has recognised Schneider Electric’s Wuxi factory in China as a Sustainability Lighthouse over its advanced solutions to reduce environmental impact.

    Schneider Electric, in a statement, said itnow has the highest number of Sustainability Lighthouses of any company with four of the 25 globally including Hyderabad, India, Lexington, Kentucky and Le Vaudreuil in France.

    The statement said the Forum, together with McKinsey & Company, was co-founded the Global Lighthouse Network in 2018.

    The statement reads: “It has grown to become a community of 189 production facilities and value chains leveraging cutting-edge Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies for exceptional performance in productivity, supply chain resilience, customer centricity, sustainability, and talent development. These global leaders reaffirm the Network’s role in setting a standard and creating a shared learning journey.

    “Schneider Electric’s Wuxi campus is an electronics manufacturing centre that produces key products for the company’s two business units, Energy Management and Industrial Automation. In 2022, the site achieved net zero for Scope 1 and 2 emissions, eight years ahead of its goal.

    “Through AI-powered eco-design, a closed-loop CO2 tracking platform with suppliers, machine learning models to improve energy efficiency, and new circular business models developed in partnership with customers, the site has reduced its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 90 per cent Scope 3 emissions by 65 per cent, and water use by 15 per cent, all in two years.”

    Quoting Schneider Electric’s Chief Supply Chain Officer, Mourad Tamoud, the statement said: “The Wuxi campus and our other Sustainability Lighthouse facilities across the globe underscore our commitment to our sustainability goals and how essential our supply chain operations are to realising them.”

    Quoting Head of the Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains at the World Economic Forum, Kiva Allgood, the statement added: “Investing in the right technologies at scale and pace, investing in our people’s development, and engaging with our partners, suppliers, and customers is critical to making progress, not just in sustainability but also in operational efficiency, flexibility, agility, and our customers’ experience in working with us.

    “Across our global lighthouse network, digital technologies are revolutionising production ecosystems. From AI-driven control towers to zero-code workflows, Lighthouses exemplify sustainable innovation, setting benchmarks millions can follow to drive transformational change across the entire ecosystem.”

  • MOJEC deploys 300,000 meters into Nigeria’s power sector in 2024

    MOJEC deploys 300,000 meters into Nigeria’s power sector in 2024

    The hope of Nigerian electricity consumers to acquire meters has received a boost as MOJEC International Limited, a foremost leader in Nigeria’s power and energy sector, deployed over 300,000 meters across the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) in 2024.

    Through its subsidiary; MOJEC Meter Asset Management Company (M3AC), the company successfully installed over 240,000 meters of the 300,000 deployed, reflecting MOJEC’s pivotal role as a critical partner in Nigeria’s journey towards sustainable energy. Speaking about the accomplishment, MOJEC’s Head of Installation, Mr. Monday Ubogu, stated that the company completed up to 150,000 installations within the first three quarters of 2024, accounting for an impressive 40 per cent of all installations carried out nationwide across Distribution Companies (DisCos) within the same period.

    This contribution was further amplified in the fourth quarter with the deployment of an additional 95,000 meters, bringing its annual total to over 240,000 installations. Mr. Ubogu also noted, “The record breaking meter installations underscores MOJEC’s unparalleled capacity to drive metering initiatives such as CAPMI, MAF, Vendor Financing, MAP Phases I & II, and NMMP 0, having deployed nearly 4M meters since the privatization of the NESI.

    Group Managing Director, Chantelle Abdul, attributed the success to MOJEC’s state of the art metering facilities. She stated, “At the heart of MOJEC’s success lies its cutting-edge infrastructure. We operate two state-of-the-art meter production facilities, boasting an annual installed capacity of up to 5 million meters.” This robust production capability not only positions MOJEC as a key player in addressing the metering deficit in Nigeria but also underscores its role as a trailblazer in Africa’s energy landscape.

    Chantelle noted that MOJEC’s expansive installer network, comprising over 5,000 skilled professionals, further lends credence to its leadership position in the sector. She affirms that the vast network of expertise ensures swift and efficient meter deployment, making MOJEC the go-to partner for DisCos nationwide. The MOJEC boss further added that by leveraging its extensive expertise and infrastructure, the company is empowering homes, businesses, and industries with reliable access to electricity.

    As the largest smart meter manufacturer in sub-Saharan Africa, MOJEC International Limited continues to set benchmarks for excellence, innovation, and impact. Its contributions in 2024 mark a significant milestone in the company’s mission to revolutionize energy access across Nigeria and beyond. With a strong focus on sustainability, cutting-edge technology, and a customer-centric approach, MOJEC is not only transforming the Nigerian electricity metering landscape but also spearheading efforts to build a more efficient and equitable energy future for all.

  • Kalu calls for UK govt support against corruption in Nigeria

    Kalu calls for UK govt support against corruption in Nigeria

    The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has called on the government of United Kingdom (UK) to support Nigeria’s fight against corruption.

    He made the call during his speech in an event tagged “UK-Nigeria Collaboration: A Parliamentary Strategic Dialogue” which attracted the presence of the Deputy Leader of the British House of Lords, Rt. Hon. Lord Collins among other members of parliament from Nigeria and UK in London on Wednesday.

    Kalu emphasized the importance of collaboration between the two countries in tackling corruption amongst other challenges.

    He commended the diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, highlighting the potential for deepened economic relationships.

    Referencing the partnership between Nigeria and the UK as a testament to shared values and mutual interests, Kalu added that by deepening collaboration across these sectors, both countries will unlock the opportunities for sustainable growth and development.

    He said: “The UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership establishes a comprehensive framework for deepening bilateral relations and achieving shared objectives. This collaboration spans six pillars: Growth and Jobs: Through the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), both nations will drive mutual economic growth by addressing market barriers, boosting two-way trade, and fostering sustainable investments in manufacturing, agriculture, and energy.

    “Both nations commit to facilitating safe migration, tackling visa abuse, and operationalizing prisoner transfer agreements while advancing reforms in global financial systems.

    “I wish to call on the UK Government to intensify its efforts towards supporting Nigeria’s war against corruption in all its facets. One of the ways the UK can support this fight is to ease the process of repatriation of monies seized from Nigerian officials that are trapped in the UK financial system. Incidentally, I am here with the Chairman of the Nigerian Parliament Committee on Financial Crimes and he will be happy to continue the conversation with relevant officials.

    “Nigeria seeks the UK’s continued support in recovering illicit funds. Enhanced collaboration should focus on: Setting up mechanisms to curb illicit financial flows. Strengthening institutions to combat corruption. Facilitating asset recovery processes through bilateral agreements”.

    Kalu who is the Chairman, Nigeria’s House Committee on Constitution Review and an advocate for political inclusion also called on the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to support the work of the panel.

    “As Chair of the House Committee on Constitution Review, I acknowledge the monumental task of refining Nigeria’s constitutional framework to reflect the evolving needs of its people. Key issues under deliberation—such as the creation of special status seats for women in legislative assemblies, the enactment of more gendersensitive legislation, and the potential introduction of sub-national policing—are pivotal to fostering inclusive governance and addressing the nation’s security challenges.

    “Thus, I implore the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to extend tailored support to the Committee’s critical work. By providing technical assistance, research expertise, and capacity-building programs, the FCDO can help ensure that these constitutional reforms are comprehensive, evidence-based, and aligned with international best practices.

    “Such support would not only strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions but also reinforce shared values of equity, justice, and security, which underpin the UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership. This collaboration would demonstrate a profound commitment to empowering marginalized groups, ensuring safer communities, and fortifying Nigeria’s legislative framework for future generations”, he said.

  • Yabatech Rector calls for Industry, academia partnerships for development

    Yabatech Rector calls for Industry, academia partnerships for development

    LAGOS: The Rector of Yaba College of Technology, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, has called for tertiary institutions’ commitment to fostering industry partnerships as the only way to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world.

    Speaking during a courtesy visit to NEM Insurance’s chairman and management team, he emphasized the College’s vision of connecting the “town and gown” through strategic collaborations that will benefit students, staff, and the broader industry.

    Dr. Abdul, accompanied by members of the college management team, outlined Yabatech’s priority of preparing students for the challenges of the modern workplace through meaningful engagements with the private sector.

    According to him: “Industry partnerships remain at the top of our agenda. We believe these collaborations are key to ensuring our students gain practical, hands-on training that prepares them for real-world challenges.”

    The rector highlighted the importance of updating the academic curriculum to reflect current industry trends and realities and implored NEM Insurance and other corporate bodies to actively participate in curriculum reviews and drafting in order to ensure that what is taught aligns with the expectations of today’s job market.

    Dr. Abdul also advocated for mentoring programme to be known as “A Day with the Professionals or CEOs” where industry experts would spend a day with students to provide insights into their fields, share professional experiences, and offer guidance.

    ”This initiative will not only inspire our students but will also help build strong relationships between academia and the corporate world,” he elucidated.

    He stressed the growing importance of the insurance industry and the need to train young professionals who can contribute to the sector.

    Dr. Abdul, however, called for support for the creation of start-up hubs in the College, which would serve as incubators for innovative ideas and skills development for both staff and students and start-up kits for such students and staff.

    In his response, the Managing Director/CEO of NEM Insurance, Mr. Andrew Ikekua, expressed his appreciation to the college for the visit and vision.

    He praised the College’s forward-thinking approach and affirmed NEM’s willingness to partner with the institution.

    He said; “We at NEM are deeply committed to supporting initiatives like this that promote education and industry growth. We will build on this partnership to make it stronger and more impactful”.

    Ikekua further assured the rector and his team that NEM would actively support the proposed exchange programmes, which aim to provide students with practical exposure in the insurance sector.

    He sought mutually beneficial relationship between the two institutions, noting that such collaborations would enhance both academic and industry performance.

    The chairman, NEM Insurance, Mr. Tope Smart pledged NEM’s support for the college proposed initiatives and other areas of collaborations that have been agreed on for implementation as an assured assurance.

  • PSG loan France forward Kolo Muani to Juventus

    Juventus signed Randal Kolo Muani on loan from Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday as the France forward seeks playing time away from the French capital.

    The two clubs released statements to confirm the deal, which will see Kolo Muani stay in Turin until June 30.

    The transfer had been held up because PSG had already filled their quota of players who could be loaned out to foreign clubs at the same time.

    However, the confirmation of Kolo Muani’s loan deal being completed follows reports in France on Wednesday that PSG’s Spanish defender Juan Bernat had rescinded his contract with the club and turned a loan move to Villarreal into a permanent transfer.

    Kolo Muani, 26, has remained a regular for the French national team despite starting just twice for PSG in the first half of the season.

    He has scored just two goals for the French champions since the campaign began, and has played just 78 minutes since the start of November.

    Kolo Muani joined from Eintracht Frankfurt in a reported 90 million-euro ($93.7m) transfer at the start of last season and netted nine goals in 40 appearances in his first campaign in Paris.

    His move to Turin will boost Juve’s forward line which has been hit with injuries.

    Thiago Motta’s team have had to play without a recognised striker in recent fixtures, and were toothless in a 0-0 draw against Club Brugge in the Champions League on Tuesday.

    Juve are currently fifth in Serie A and travel to leaders Napoli on Saturday.

    Kolo Muani will be welcomed into the fold at Juve by fellow Frenchmen Pierre Kalulu and Khephren Thuram, the latter the son of World Cup and European Championship winner Lilian who won two league titles at Juve.

  • Two Nigerians arrested in Kuwait for alleged $14,918 robbery

    Two Nigerians arrested in Kuwait for alleged $14,918 robbery

    The Kuwaiti General Department of Criminal Investigation (GDCI) has arrested two unidentified Nigerians in the Ahmadi Province for allegedly robbing an exchange office and stealing $14,918. They have been charged with the crime.

    In a statement on Wednesday, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior, as reported by Arab Times Online, confirmed that the suspects were apprehended within 24 hours after robbing an exchange office in Mahboula, a district in southern Kuwait City.

    Footage on the Arab Times Online website shows one of the suspects exiting a car wearing a balaclava. He is seen entering the exchange office and pointing what appears to be a gun at an official inside.

    The suspects allegedly made away with approximately $14,918.69, equivalent to 4,600 Kuwaiti Dinars when converted to U.S. dollars.

    The report stated, “Investigation revealed that the gang meticulously planned the crime, monitoring the exchange offices from nearby rooftops to identify peak times. They also used stolen license plates to conceal the identities of the vehicles involved in the operation.”

    One of the suspects, whose name was withheld, reportedly confessed after his arrest in Mahboula that he had scouted the location and alerted his unnamed accomplice when the office was free of customers.

    “The second suspect was apprehended in the Al-Qurain Market, and the stolen money, along with a small bag containing the narcotic substance ‘crystal meth,’ was recovered from his residence. The Ministry of Interior confirmed that the suspects and seized items have been referred to the public prosecution for further legal action,” the report added.

  • Telecom tariff hike will hinder learning, research – Students lament

    Telecom tariff hike will hinder learning, research – Students lament

    A cross-section of students in Enugu State, on Wednesday,  appealed for the reversal of the 50 per cent hike in tariff in telecommunication services due to prevailing socioeconomic hardship.

    They were of the view that telecommunication services, such as internet data service, have enhanced learning and research work; making its usage indispensable to all students.

    They made their feelings known in separate interviews while reacting to the telecom tariff hike with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

    Mr Divine Eze, a student of the Department of Environmental Management in the University of Nigeria Enugu Campus (UNEC), urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and telecom companies to consider the financial struggle of students and their parents.

    Eze said that currently most students could not easily cope with the high cost of textbooks and other educational materials, which cost increased in the past few years.

    “The only relief we have for now is the telecommunication services that had helped students to manage; thus, reducing need for travels, time doing research and writing same research work and essential social media communication,” he said.

    Speaking, a student of the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Mrs Chiamaka Dike, called on NCC and telecom companies not to put an increase in data service as it impacted negatively on learning and education the more.

    “Usage of data have made me to manage the N2,000 that my parents usual give to me monthly for GSM services.

    “Many other students I know go through such strict condition by using only data only when necessay,” Dike, who is of the Department of Banking and Finance, said.

    Corroborating, Mr Chidiebere Chimdobe, a student of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), noted that NCC and telecom companies failed to consult and carry all telecom stakeholders along in pushing for the hike.

    Chimdobe said that the telecommunication services drove millions of soft job or e-jobs which students and fresh graduates engage in within the past 10 years.

    According to him, NCC and telecom companies are thoroughly insensitive to the hradship, daily struggles and difficult plights of Nigerian youths, which majority are students.

    “If they go ahead with the hike, it will further compound hardship and will increase social vices as well,” he said.

    Meanwhile, the Progressive Students Movement (PSM), a pan-African students movement, has given an ultimatum of 72-hour to NCC and telecom companies to reverse recent 50 per cent hike in tariff.

    The President of PSM, Mr Bestman Okereafor, called for the review and reversal in a statement made available to newsmen in Enugu.

    Okereafor noted that the 50 per cent increment at this time is “unjustifiable, untimely, and insensitive; hence the total rejection of this anti-masses increment.”

    According to him, PSM is calling on NCC and telecommunications companies to review its stance as a matter of urgency.

    He said, “The attention of PSM has been drawn to NCC’s approval of Telecom operators 50 per cent tariff increment.

    “It will be recalled that telecom operators had previously demanded to adjust their tariff rate; a request which many Nigerians especially Nigerian students frowned at.

    “Information at our disposal shows that NCC approved the telecom companies request in response to rising operational costs, at the detriment of Nigerians and the obvious economic realities facing the country.

    “However, this development, which allows for a maximum of 50 per cent adjustment to current tariffs, was announced in a statement signed by Reuben Muoka, the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, on Monday, Jan. 20.”

    The PSM President warned that the entire students’ bodies would be protesting this abnormal and inconsiderate 50 per cent increment in tariff if not reviewed in the next 72 hours.