Broadcasting
Echefu, TStv Boss Decries Power Outage, Fuel Scarcity
Bright Echefu, managing director, TStv Africa PayTV, has called on the Federal Government and power sector to improve on the electricity supply to safeguard businesses in the country.
Echefu made the appeal on his social media handle on Thursday saying that its operations were being hampered by unavailability of power and high cost of running on generators to serve its customers.
He said that the company spent N232 million on diesel in 2021 for operations in its headquarters and affiliate offices across the country.
“This March, I am so pained that diesel for TStv headquarters operation alone has climbed to N36 million for the same 45,000 litres that we bought at N14 million in October 2021.
According to Echefu, as a company, it is inconvenient for the organisation to keep spending oustrageous sums monthly on power in Abuja office alone.
“From our finance records, TStv bought 769,300 litres of diesel and spent a total of N232 million from January 2021 to December 2021 for TStv headquarters and its affiliate offices.’’
Echefu said there were months that the organisation relied solely on generators to run its operations.
He further placed the actual need of TSTV monthly at 68,000 litres which he said covered other offices and affiliated businesses across the country.
“If this issue is not resolved by the government, it means TStv should be prepared to look for N489 million to power its generators for the next nine months.
“The company will continue to serve Nigerians with uninterrupted pay TV service, even though this is coming with extreme pain and discomfort.
“I know a lot of SMEs are going through this crisis too.
“The facility seats on 1.6 hectares of land. We have over 200 ACs to power, we have transmission equipment, and we have 150-Channel Network Operations Centres.
“We have TStv studios, Satellite teleport, Tier III data centre facility and many infrastructures all in Idu headquarters that must never go off for one second,’’ he added.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the organisation since it began operations has offered viewers the pay-as-you-watch option for subscription.
Broadcasting
House of Reps Calls for N500bn Recapitalization of DisCos
House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to enforce a minimum capital base of N500 billion for electricity distribution companies (DisCos) to continue operations.
The lawmakers argue that only financially robust DisCos can ensure efficient service delivery and maximum consumer satisfaction.
This resolution was passed during Wednesday’s plenary following a motion by Ibrahim Isiaka, a representative from Ogun State.
Isiaka criticized the current operations of DisCos, describing their actions as a threat to the economic stability and welfare of Nigerians.
He highlighted consumer complaints regarding the replacement of electricity meters, noting that DisCos often demand additional payments despite consumers already financing the installation of meters.
Isiaka expressed concern over the financial burden this places on households and businesses struggling with economic challenges.
The motion also raised issues of consumer trust, alleging that DisCos operate with impunity and disregard for consumer rights, despite oversight from the regulatory authorities and the House Committee on Power.
The lawmakers unanimously adopted the motion through a voice vote conducted by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
They urged the Ministry of Power to take immediate steps to address the “reckless actions” of DisCos, labeling them as non-state actors threatening Nigeria’s economy.
The House further mandated the recapitalization of DisCos to a minimum of N500 billion, insisting that only financially capable operators should be allowed to continue providing electricity services.
Additionally, the House Committee on Power was directed to investigate the activities of DisCos to ensure accountability and protect consumer rights.
Broadcasting
Chinenye Anuforo of The Sun Newspaper Honored for Excellence in ICT Journalism
Chinenye Anuforo, a distinguished journalist from The Sun Newspaper, has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to ICT journalism in Nigeria.
Last week, she received the ICT Innovation Storyteller Award at the Africa Tech Alliance Excellence (ATAEx) Awards, celebrating her ability to craft compelling narratives that highlight the complexities and potential of the ICT sector.
“Chinenye’s dedication to her craft is evident in her insightful analysis and engaging storytelling,” said Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, co-convener of the ATAEx Awards.
“Her work has consistently illuminated the significant impact of technology on society, making her a deserving recipient of this award.”
The accolades continued as Anuforo was named the ICT Reporter of the Year at the Africa Digital Awards (ADA) just a week later.
This prestigious award further cements her status as a leading voice in the ICT industry.
Mr. Tayo Adewusi, Publisher/Coordinator of NIICF & ADA, who presented the award, praised Anuforo’s role in shaping public discourse on ICT issues.
“Her reports have not only informed but also inspired, making her a true champion of digital innovation,” he said.
Expressing her gratitude, Chinenye Anuforo stated, “I am deeply honored and humbled to receive these awards.
“I am grateful to my editors at The Sun Newspapers for their unwavering support and to the organizers of the ATAEx Awards and Africa Digital Awards for recognizing my work.
“It is a privilege to contribute to the growth of the ICT sector in Nigeria through journalism.”
Broadcasting
Flymate Travel Unveils Visadoc App to Enhance Travel Convenience
Flymate Travel Limited, a pioneering travel solutions provider, has launched Visadoc, a cutting-edge travel app designed to streamline and enhance user experiences worldwide.
Visadoc simplifies Travel and enhancing convenience by empowering travelers to manage their journey from visa applications to booking accommodations and flights. Key features include:
– Seamless Visa Application Process: Easy application, documentation, and biometric scheduling
– Personalized Travel Recommendations: Tailored suggestions based on individual preferences
– Secure Electronic Payments: Convenient fee payments
– Real-time Travel Updates: Flight statuses, weather conditions, and travel advisories
Gbenga Badmus, CEO of Flymate Travel Limited, speaking at the launch on wednesday, explained that Visadoc is designed to offer customized services to the end users.
According to him, “Visadoc is designed to offer customized services to the end users. With its help, applicants can apply with ease by doing it themselves end to end.
“By completing the documentation process and waiting for the biometric capturing invite. Without putting a physical face to the agent’s office”.
Visadoc is available for download on the App Store and Google Play Store. The app is designed to cater to a wide range of travelers, including families, individuals, and business professionals.
“Families, Individuals with their specific needs and preferences, are an essential target audience for travel brands. Family travelers look for visas to destinations and accommodations that cater to the interests and safety of their children. They prioritize family-friendly activities, spacious accommodations, and convenient amenities,” said Abdullahi Yusuf, Project Manager at Flymate Travel Limited.
The target markets for a public travel tracking app can include frequent travelers, commuters, tourists, and individuals who must obtain their visa.
Flymate Travel Limited is committed to leveraging technology to enhance the travel experience and provide exceptional customer service. By utilizing data and user feedback, the company will continue to refine and improve the app to meet the evolving needs of travelers.
For more information about Flymate Travel Limited Contact:
Gbenga Badmus (CEO/MD) – [email protected], 07044132787
Abdullahi Yusuf (Project Manager) – [email protected], 08160253848
Eseigbe Godwin (Software Engineer) – [email protected], 09057379300
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