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How Meta is Preparing for Nigeria’s 2023 General Elections

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In a bid to help ensure a safe and secured general election in Nigeria, Meta had earlier today, through Adaora Ikenze, Head of Public Policy for Anglophone West Africa, shared another update ahead of the general elections. Find Excerpts below.

Today, we are sharing an update on our work to prepare for and help preserve the integrity of the general elections taking place in Nigeria on 25 February 2023.

This work will continue in the lead-up to, during and after the vote. It is grounded in long-running investments we have made in people, technology and partnerships to help reduce the spread of misinformation, detect and remove hate speech, improve digital literacy, help make political advertising more transparent and ensure the safety of people using our platforms.

Removing Harmful Content to Keep People Safe

We want people to be able to talk openly on our apps about the issues that matter to them, whilst still feeling safe. Our Community Standards (also available in Hausa) publicly explain what content is and isn’t allowed on Facebook and Instagram, and cover a number of areas relevant to elections. These include policies on harassment and incitement to violence, as well as detailed hate speech policies that ban attacks on people based on characteristics like ethnicity or religion. When we become aware of content that violates these rules, we remove it.

Since 2016, we’ve quadrupled the size of our global team working on safety and security to 40,000 people. This includes over 15,000 content reviewers who review content across Facebook and Instagram in more than 70 languages — including Yoruba, Igbo and Hausa.

As Election Day approaches, we will activate a Nigeria-specific Elections Operations Center focused on identifying potential threats across our apps and technologies in real time, accelerating our response time. This initiative will bring together experts from across our company on our intelligence, data science, engineering, research, operations, public policy and legal teams.

Combating Misinformation and False News

We remove the most serious kinds of misinformation from Facebook and Instagram, such as content that could contribute to imminent violence or physical harm, or that is intended to suppress voting. This includes false news related to voting dates, locations, time and methods. For the Nigerian elections, based on guidance from local partners, this will specifically include photos and videos shared out of context that falsely depict ballot-stuffing, acts of violence or weapons.

For content that doesn’t violate these particular policies, we work with independent fact-checking organisations in Nigeria — AFP, Africa Check, Dubawa and Reuters — who review and rate content in English, Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo. When content is rated “false” or “partly false” by these fact checkers, we attach warning labels to the content and reduce its distribution in Facebook Feed so people are less likely to see it.

To help Nigerians spot and take action against false news online, we’ve partnered with local radio stations to create “#NoFalseNewsZone” radio dramas in English and Pidgin, and run ads on Facebook and radio in Yoruba, Pidgin, Hausa and Igbo.

Addressing Virality on WhatsApp

WhatsApp will continue to limit peoples’ ability to forward messages and announced last year that any message that has been forwarded once can only be forwarded to one group at a time, rather than the previous limit of five. When we introduced the same feature for highly forwarded messages in 2020, we reduced the number of these messages sent on WhatsApp by more than 70%.

WhatsApp’s Search the Web function also lets people double-check the text content of messages that have been forwarded many times. This means that they can find other sources of information about content they’ve received.

People can also control who can add them to group chats and have options to block and report unknown contacts, giving them even more control over their privacy.

Making Political Advertising More Transparent

Advertisers seeking to run ads related to social issues, elections or politics on our apps in Nigeria must undergo a verification process to prove who they are and that they live in the country. Their ads will also be labelled with a “Paid for by” disclaimer to show who’s behind it.

We’ve also introduced new controls so people can choose to see fewer ads about social issues, elections and politics. When people use these controls they’ll no longer see ads that are labelled with the “Paid for by” disclaimer.

All political and electoral ads are added to our Ads Library for seven years, so that everyone can see what ads are running, see information about targeting and find out how much was spent on them.

Fighting Election Interference

We’ve built specialised global teams to stop election interference, focusing on coordinated inauthentic behaviour (CIB) — when groups of people use sophisticated networks of Pages, Groups and accounts to try and manipulate public debate.

Since 2017, we have removed more than 150 networks globally for coordinated inauthentic behaviour including ahead of major elections, and we remain vigilant to this behaviour. We will remove and publicly share details of any networks of CIB that we identify across our technologies related to the election.

Working With Local Organisations

We are working closely with election authorities, including The Independent National Electoral Commission, and other local partners in Nigeria to ensure we’re preparing appropriately for the specific challenges an election brings.

We have engaged with women safety organisations such as TechHer, ElectHer, Nigerian Women’s Trust Fund, and WIMBIZ to support a range of initiatives that encourage civic engagement. We’ve also provided digital security and safety training for vulnerable groups including female public figures and human rights defenders.

We have also provided training for grassroots civil society organisations that are working to prevent and counter violent extremism in Nigeria, organised in partnership with Search for Common Ground, and conducted a roundtable with experts, academics and think tanks that are working on counterterrorism efforts in the country.

Encouraging Civic Engagement

When it comes to elections, people should have easy access to accurate information from credible sources. That’s why we’ve supported Yiaga Africa, a non-partisan voter education non-profit, through a donation to develop a voter education chatbot on WhatsApp.

Launched on February 1st, 2023, the chatbot helps provide Nigerian voters with secure information on voting rules, positions up for election, what to expect on voting day and the tools they need to exercise their vote. Anyone can access the chatbot by messaging +234 (0) 906 283 0860 on WhatsApp or click wa.me/+2349062830860.

We’ll also have an “I Voted” sticker on Instagram. And on Election Day, we’ll remind people in the country that it’s time to vote with a notification on top of their Facebook Feed as well.


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Ugo Onwuaso is an ICT enthusiast. He believes technology should be used for general good. He holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from the Lagos state University. Dear Reader, Your support matters. But we believe that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. That is why, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and finance and how they affect lives. Our incisive and analytical view of how technology news affects the daily life help individuals and organizations make up their minds. Quality journalism costs money. Today, we're asking that you support us to do more. Kindly support our effort to deliver technology and finance journalism to everyone in the world. Donate as little as N1,000. Bank transfers can be made to: UBA Plc 1017156876 Communication Week Media Ltd

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ALTON Explains SIM-related Services Disruption Across Mobile Networks

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The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has attributed temporary disruption affecting SIM-related services across all mobile networks in Nigeria to a recent directive from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), mandating our Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) members to transit to a new identity verification platform.

In a statement signed by Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, chairman, ALTON, explained that the migration process, which directly impacts real-time identity verification required for SIM registration, SIM replacement, Mobile Number Portability (MNP), and other related services, has introduced unforeseen technical challenges that are currently affecting service availability nationwide.

“While the new platform is intended to enhance the integrity and efficiency of identity management in Nigeria, unfortunately, the transition has temporarily impacted the ability of MNOs to deliver seamless SIM-related services.

“During this period, MNOs will not be able to support, SIM Swap, SIM replacement, activation of new subscribers and other SIM-related services,” the statement noted.

ALTON however, assured that its member companies remain fully committed to regulatory compliance and are working closely with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), NIMC, and other relevant authorities to resolve the integration issues as quickly as possible.

“We understand the inconvenience this may cause to millions of subscribers who depend on these services for communication, business, and daily activities. We sincerely apologize for the disruption and kindly advise subscribers to postpone visits to service centers for SIM related transactions until further notice.

“We will continue to provide timely updates as the situation evolves and remains committed to ensuring the delivery of secure, reliable, and high-quality telecommunications services to all Nigerians,” ALTON stated.


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Konga Turns 13, Unveils Bumper Deals to Celebrate Milestone

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Konga, Nigeria’s trailblazing composite e-commerce giant, is marking a remarkable 13-year journey of innovation, impact, and transformation in digital commerce with an explosive month-long celebration — the Konga 13th Anniversary Sale.

From July 1st to 31st, 2025, shoppers across Nigeria can unlock unbeatable deals. The 13th Konga Anniversary Sale is themed Yafun Yafun Deals and it has lined up a celebration packed with unbeatable deals and exciting offers, such as massive discounts of up to 50%, thrilling flash sales, free delivery on select items, and exclusive bundle offers across all categories — in what promises to be the biggest shopping event of the summer.

Konga embarked on a mission to revolutionize retail in Nigeria when it was launched as a simple online platform in 2012. Following acquisition by the Zinox Group, what began as a bold digital venture has undergone a remarkable transformation and quickly grew into a household name.

Launched in 2012 as a pioneering online marketplace, Konga has evolved, post its strategic acquisition by the Zinox Group, into a powerful digital ecosystem, reshaping how Nigerians shop, pay, travel, access healthcare, and experience media. Today, Konga proudly operates eight fast-growing verticals: Konga Online, KongaPay, Konga Health, Konga Travel and Tours, Konga Corporate, Konga Logistics, Konga Retail, and Konga Communications (Konga TV and FM).

Through years of relentless innovation, Konga has not only driven Nigeria’s digital economy forward but has also empowered thousands of businesses, bridged access gaps, created employment, and fostered financial inclusion across the nation.

Commenting on this significant anniversary, Nnamdi Ekeh, Group CEO, Konga, expressed profound appreciation. “Thirteen years ago, Konga set out to transform Nigeria’s commerce landscape. Today, as we celebrate this milestone, we are incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made – not just in e-commerce, but in fostering digital inclusion and supporting countless businesses.

“This Anniversary Sale is our way of saying a massive thank you to our customers, partners, and everyone who has journeyed with us. We remain committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering unmatched value as we look forward to even greater achievements in the years to come,” he added.

Also commenting on the anniversary, Dave Omeregie, Chief Operating Officer, Konga, added, “Our journey has been one of relentless innovation, operational excellence, and an unshakable commitment to customer satisfaction. As we celebrate 13 years, we are doubling down on our mission to lead Africa’s digital commerce frontier.

“From last-mile delivery to secure payments, healthcare access, and smart retailing, Konga has built a unique infrastructure that is enabling real change. This anniversary is not just about the past — it’s a statement of intent for the future.”

This year’s Yafun Yafun Deals is more than a promotional event — it’s a tribute to the millions of Nigerians who have made Konga their go-to platform for convenience, quality, and trust. From premium electronics to everyday essentials, the 13th Anniversary Sale delivers unbeatable value and excitement to homes and businesses alike.

The Konga 2025 Anniversary Sale is more than just a promotional event; it’s a celebration of Nigeria’s digital evolution and Konga’s enduring commitment to its people. Shoppers can participate in the Konga 13th Anniversary Sale by visiting Konga (https://www.konga.com) or downloading the Konga App. Nigerians are invited to join the festivities and take advantage of the extraordinary deals available throughout July.


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MTN Foundation, NDLEA, UNODC Unite in Abuja Against Substance Abuse

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As part of activities commemorating the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the MTN Foundation, in partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) hosted a national conference in Abuja under the banner of its Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP).

The event, which took place on Thursday, 26th June 2025, at State House, Abuja, brought together stakeholders across government, civil society, the diplomatic corps, and the private sector to spotlight Nigeria’s fight against substance abuse.

The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, represented by The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, stated, “World Drug Day isa wake-up call. It urges us to take urgent, evidence-based action to confront illicit drug use and trafficking—crises that continue to destroy lives, shatter families, and undermine the very fabric of our communities.” He concluded by saying, “This is not just the responsibility of the government, it is a shared human duty—to ensure that the road to recovery is accessible for all.”

Representing Dr. Mosun Olusoga, Chairman of the MTN Foundation, Prof. Ifeoma Okoye, Non-Executive Director, MTN Foundation, also added, “This is all our fight, and we need to play a part in sensitising communities and developing new policies to counter this scourge.

“At our Foundation, we’re facilitating discussions at stakeholder conferences likethis, educating communities in collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and hosting a quiz competition to increase awareness among 86,400students and 1,440 teachers from 144 public secondary schools in 12 States.

“This of course, is in addition to the advocacy walks in tertiary institutions across Abuja, Enugu, Kano, and Lagos States, and our partnership with the NDLEA on their 24/7 toll-free psycho-social support helpline for affected youth.”

Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman of NDLEA, highlighted the role of the NDLEA and welcomed the continued support of partners like the MTN Foundation and the UNODC. “To battle the scourge of drugs, which has been linked to terrorism and banditry, prevention remains the most proactive approach in the fight against drug intakeand traffic in our communities.

“The importance of prevention is the fight against illicit drugs. We have seen the case of people using drugs rise globally. The World Drug report of 2024 states that drug use globally has increased significantly to 209 million people, a 20% rise over the last decade.

“The costly practices of drugs in terms of death and toll on individuals are high. We learnt from the World Drug Report of 2022 that drug use abuse killed almost half a million people in 2019. This should sound an alarm bell that something must be done,” he stated.

Other highlights from the event included a youth-led drama performance by the University of Abuja Theatre Group, a documentary screening on the effects of drug abuse, and a prize presentation to the winners of the inter-secondary school essay competition. The programme also featured remarks from a young person with lived experience, Saadatu Usman Mohammed, and a guest lecture delivered by Dr. Abubakar Salami.

Since its launch in2019, ASAP has worked to combat substance abuse through sustained behavioural change campaigns, advocacy, and educational outreach targeted at young Nigerians. The 2025 conference reaffirmed the foundation’s role as a committed partner in supporting national efforts to reduce the prevalence of drug abuse across the country.


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