Incorporated Trustees of HEDA Resource Centre has appealed the judgment of the Federal High Court in Lagos which struck out its suit seeking to stop the construction of new base stations.

A base station is a piece of equipment that facilitates wireless communication between devices and a network

Recall that Federal High Court in Lagos on June 21 struck out Heda’s application seeking to bar the Federal Ministry of Environment, ATC Nigeria Wireless Infrastructure Limited and MTN Communications Plc from going ahead with the planned construction of new base stations near existing sites operated by other infrastructure operators.

HEDA Resource Centre, in a statement by Olanrewaju Suraju, executive director, said the verdict was very odd and inconsistent with the court’s earlier position that the plaintiff had a cause of action in the preliminary objection brought by MTN on the same facts.

It believes that reaching conflicting conclusions on two similar applications makes an appeal against the decision of Justice Yelim Bogoro necessary.

“We see this decision of the Federal High Court as very odd and inconsistent with the law.

“Reason is the fact that the same trial judge had admitted that there was a cause of action on the earlier application on the same set of facts brought by the fifth respondent, MTN.

“The court, in another application by the fourth respondent (ATC), which came much later, also affirmed the fact that HEDA Resource Centre had a cause of action.

“It is strange to us that His Lordship suddenly shifted his earlier position by saying there was no cause of action when nothing material has changed.”

According to HEDA, the judgment was suggestive that a cause of action would arise if permits are issued to the defendants (ATC and MTN) or they take steps toward building new base station sites.

It said the ruling was also supportive of the Federal Ministry of Environment’s position that its action should not be the basis of the suit.

HEDA maintained that the ministry’s role as a critical agency responsible for ensuring a safe, livable environment could not be downplayed.

The group added: “It is interesting to read narratives in the media that we are acting as a proxy for IHS.

“We are an independent body and anyone can check our history of advocacy, including our history with MTN Nigeria dating back many years.”

Justice Bogoro in March dismissed two applications by ATC and MTN challenging the competence of the suit filed by HEDA Resource Centre.

He affirmed the organisation’s locus to file the case.

Mr. Aliyu Aboki, Executive Secretary of the West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Assembly (WATRA), will moderate the highly anticipated Session 5 on “Safe and Inclusive Digital Financial Services” during the International Telecommunications Union’s Global Symposium for Regulators (ITU GSR-4) slated for July 3^rd, 2024 in Kampala, Uganda.

This session is set to provide critical insights and foster robust discussions on the regulatory frameworks essential for a secure and inclusive digital financial ecosystem.

Mr. Aboki, with his extensive experience and deep understanding of the regulatory landscape, will guide a panel of distinguished experts through a comprehensive exploration of regulatory strategies to foster a secure and inclusive digital financial ecosystem. The session will address the burgeoning complexities of crypto-asset regulation, balancing innovative fintech solutions with traditional banking norms, and ensuring consumer safety in the digital finance landscape.

The discussions will delve into pivotal questions such as how can inclusive access to digital financial services be ensured? Are current calls to regulate cryptocurrencies appropriate, and who would be affected? What measures are necessary to secure digital transactions and maintain consumer trust?

The session will feature a distinguished panel of experts who will share their perspectives and expertise. These include Mr. Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, Director General, National Communications Authority, Somalia; Mr. Jabiri Kuwe Bakari, Director General, Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), Tanzania; Mr. James Claude, CEO, Global Voice Group; Ms. Bernadette Lewis, Secretary General, Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) and Ms. Mei Lin Fung, Chair, People Centered Internet.

The GSR 2024 emphasizes open and frank dialogue, encouraging spontaneous and insightful exchanges rather than prepared statements.

“In an era where digital financial services are becoming the backbone of global commerce, it is crucial to address the dual imperatives of security and inclusivity. This session at GSR 2024 is not just about discussing regulatory challenges; it’s about shaping the future of digital finance to be safe, accessible, and trustworthy for all. I am eager to moderate what I believe will be a transformative discussion that paves the way for groundbreaking advancements in our industry,” says Aliyu Aboki, Executive Secretary, WATRA.

In a collaborative effort to combat substance abuse through prevention, MTN Foundation, NDLEA, and UNODC came together for a multi-stakeholder conference in Abuja. The event saw key government officials and experts unite to discuss some evidence-based strategies against drug abuse among Nigerian youths.

L-R: Secretary, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Shadrach Usman Haruna; Teacher, PTA/NADP International College, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Jonah Basil-Eneh; Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, Odunayo Sanya; Students, PTA/NADP International College, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Abdul Isa Salihu, Peace Monday and Augusta Opane Okyuwa; National Programme Officer, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Folusho Ajayi Adelekan and Associate Professor, Theatre Arts, University of Abuja at the ASAP quiz competition grand finale where PTA/NADP International College, Lafia emerged winners in Abuja on June 23, 2023.

This conference follows the recent Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP) stakeholder conference hosted by MTN Foundation in Lagos. So far, the initiative has successfully engaged 86,400 students and 1,440 teachers from 144 public secondary schools across 12 states, along with advocacy walks in Abuja, Lagos, and Rivers state. Additionally, a 24/7 toll-free psycho-social support helpline for affected youth was launched in partnership with the NDLEA. These efforts highlight the growing awareness and commitment to fighting substance abuse among youths in the country.

Senator George Akume, representing the Federal Government, emphasised the administration’s support for these collaborative efforts. He highlighted that the fight against drug abuse requires a unified approach and praised the ongoing initiatives for their impact.

Prince Julius Adelusi Adeluyi, Chairman of MTN Foundation, reinforced the foundation’s commitment to the cause. “Our mission is to reduce the rate of first-time substance abuse among young Nigerians. The power of collective action cannot be overstated,” he remarked.

Brig Gen Mohammed Buba Marwa, Chairman of NDLEA, called for substantial investments in preventive measures and early detection, stating, “The Drug Integrity Test initiative aims to establish an anti-drug culture in Nigeria. It targets students, workers, and prospective couples to prevent drug use and enable early intervention, treatment, and rehabilitation.”

Dr. Oliver Stolpe, outgoing UNODC Country Representative, emphasised the importance of evidence-based prevention programs and community involvement in tackling the drug abuse problem.

The event, held at the State House in Abuja, also highlighted the importance of grassroot initiatives and tailored interventions to meet specific community needs. It also highlighted how fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility within local communities can yield more impactful and sustainable outcomes.

MTN Foundation remains committed to continuing this fight against substance abuse, aligning with the strategies and support outlined by key stakeholders at the conference. The foundation is dedicated to reducing drug abuse among Nigerian youth, and it will continue to support collaborative efforts to create a healthier, drug-free future for the country.