Telecom
MNP Receives Red-Carpet Reception
Mobile number portability (MNP) which gives subscribers freedom to choose or fire their GSM service providers and still retain their numbers will create better value for the tripod upon which the telecom industry stands, according to a cross section of experts.
For the consumers, it is choice of better services; for the operators, it is retaining and attracting new subscribers depending on their quality of service; while for the regulator, it is breather from Nigerians angry at regulatory laxity.
The take off of MNP is now scheduled for the second quarter after several postponements.
Uche Onwudiwe, chief operating officer of Interconnnect ClearingHouse, said technically, the country was ready for the MNP regime but noted that there had been some delays because operators were foot dragging.
“The operators have been foot dragging on the issue for some time, but now that the NCC has mandated it begins before the middle of this year, everybody is moving quite fast about it,” said Onwudiwe.
He noted that MNP’s “aim is to have a seamless migration from one network to another for individuals, without losing your number. It does not terminate either your data update or contacts that you moved to a different network, you just move your number over. It is a free service for individuals as well. You initiate it by deciding the new operator you want to join. At some point they will give you a new SIM card, but before that time, NCC and operators would advertise the process.”
Alastair Macpherson, quality assurance partner, PricewaterHouse Cooper (PwC), UK noted that MNP regime would likely lead to switching of platforms by mobile consumers.
Although he stated that the mechanism of funding MNP is not decided yet, the most critical technological applications will be changes in switching networks.
But added: “Cost of MNP will not be affected by interconnect rate, but rather, operators will be affected by customer acquisition.”
Onwudiwe added that operators could have also used the delayed time frame to upgrade their networks infrastructure. “In the recent past we have heard them say they’ve further developed their network infrastructures.”
Michael Nwaogu, of Cellcore, a messaging and service consultancy firm, said that with the subscriber as the target, telecom operators would galvanise the system, a move capable of eliminating redundancy in quality of service.
“The subscriber ultimately is the objective for value added services in the country. It is definitely what should work in Nigeria. It is in operation in other places. And for the Nigerian subscriber it should not be a difference.
Olutoyin Daniel, chief technical officer, Mtech Communications limited, also said MNP is a long overdue regime in the Nigerian mobile market. “I think it is a very good initiative. On the subscribers side I believe it is going to be value addiction to them; they can move from one network to another. On the operators’ side, this will make them tighten up their shoes, especially with regards to the subscribers’ base they presently own.”
Julius Igugu, general manager, Technical, Lightning Networks, said consumers will no longer get stuck on a network that does not give value-added-service.
“Basically, it will help the subscribers because you are not going to be stock on one network anymore. I am on a particular network for years now and I have had relatively good network, but what this mobile number portability will do is if you are not satisfied with one operator you can easily switch to another operator in the world. It is done elsewhere in the world.”
Chigozie Ezebuiro, Engineering Operations, Paga Technology said from a subscribers’ perspective, “mobile number portability is the way to go. It is saving the subscriber the stress of carrying more phones. If I am on a particular network and feel that I am not getting not just voice calls satisfaction, other benefits in the other network can attract me, I can port to that other friendly network”
Presently, some people have double or multiple SIMs on a particular network. And the operators should be excited as well, because the commercial value is there. If your quality of service is healthy, definitely subscribers would migrate to that network instead of suffering in the hands of the other that probably do not care.”
Ezebuiro believes it could ultimately lead to improved QoS. “Now, they have to fight to keep their customers. It may also eliminate the issue of NCC chasing them around to improve on their quality of service. I think so, because they will see the need to improve on the network themselves.”
Airtel, one of Africa’s leading telecommunications providers, has launched a groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven Spam Alert Service in Nigeria, aimed at tackling the growing issues of spam messages and fraud.
Speaking at the launch event held in Lagos, Dinesh Balsingh, Managing Director of Airtel Nigeria, revealed that the innovative service will be rolled out across Airtel’s 14-country footprint.
Notably, Airtel subscribers in Nigeria can access the service at no additional cost.
The AI-powered solution detects and alerts users in real-time about suspected spam SMS, safeguarding them from potential fraud and cyber threats.
Highlighting the company’s commitment to technology-driven customer solutions, Balsingh said, “this is a game changer for the telecoms industry in Africa and as we move forward, we will continue to address customer challenges through proactive tech-driven solutions.”
The service is built on a proprietary dual-layer protection system that analyses over 250 parameters, including sender behavior, SMS frequency, and target location patterns.
Capable of filtering over 1.5 billion messages within two milliseconds, it also features a centralised database of blacklisted URLs to warn users about suspicious links.
“With the launch of this AI-powered Spam Alert Service, Airtel Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering innovative solutions that enhance customer experience, safety, and digital inclusion across the continent.
“As Airtel continues to expand its footprint, it is expected that this pioneering solution will set a new standard for the telecoms industry in Africa.
“Also, as the digital landscape continues to evolve, Airtel Africa remains at the forefront, pushing boundaries and shaping the future of telecommunications in Africa,” said Balsingh.
He emphasised that as Airtel continues to expand, the pioneering solution will set new benchmarks for Africa’s telecom industry.
The initiative has received commendation from key stakeholders, including Dr. Bosun Tijani, minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
Dr. Tijani lauded Airtel’s efforts in boosting Nigeria’s technology ecosystem, particularly through solutions that enhance online security and foster digital inclusion.
Similarly, Dr. Aminu Maida, executive vice chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, hailed the service as a major step in addressing the security challenges faced by telecom subscribers.
As the digital landscape evolves, Airtel Africa continues to push the boundaries of innovation, shaping the future of telecommunications across the continent.
The Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance & Regulatory Agency (LASIMRA) recently embarked on a historic working visit to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Headquarters in Abuja.
The LASIMRA delegation was led by its Chief Executive Officer, Prince Oyekanmi Elegushi, alongside members of the senior management team.
The delegation was warmly received by the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, and the Commission’s management team. The visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration between LASIMRA and NCC towards improving the telecommunications sector in Lagos State.
The meeting was further enriched by the presence of representatives from the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), including the Chairman, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, and the Publicity Secretary, Mr. Damian Udeh.
Discussions focused on addressing critical issues affecting the industry, with particular emphasis on the security and protection of telecom infrastructure.
LASIMRA reiterated the need for effective oversight and safeguarding of these essential assets under the jurisdiction of the Lagos State Government.
A key highlight of the meeting was the Tower Enumeration Project—a comprehensive audit initiative aimed at identifying all distressing communication infrastructure across Lagos.
LASIMRA also raised concerns about damages to public infrastructure caused by some operators during fibre deployment and reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing appropriate penalties to preserve public assets.
The parties agreed on the importance of a unified strategy involving NCC, LASIMRA and other stakeholders to bring order to the sector, improve connectivity, and ensure widespread access to high-quality telecommunications services across Lagos.
LASIMRA expresses its sincere appreciation to the NCC for its support and collaboration. Together, we remain committed to building a more connected, secure, and digitally inclusive Lagos.
National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the recent increase in tariffs by telecommunications companies in Nigeria, threatening to embark on a nationwide protest to compel a reversal.
In a statement jointly signed on Thursday in Abuja by Comrade Anzaku Shedrack Ovye, national secretary-general, NANS and Comrade Samson Ajasa Adeyemi, the student body gave the Federal Government and telecommunications companies a 72-hour ultimatum to reverse the tariff increase.
The students warned that upon the expiration of the ultimatum, students across the country would be mobilized for a series of street protests nationwide to ensure a reversal.
They argued that the arbitrary action of telecommunications companies has further exacerbated the financial burden on millions of Nigerians, particularly students and youths, who are among the dominant end-users of their services.
The statement read in part:
“This decision, which has led to a significant rise in the cost of calls, data, and other communication services, is both unjustifiable and insensitive, given the prevailing economic challenges faced by the populace.
“NANS views this development as a blatant disregard for the welfare of Nigerian citizens and an affront to the principles of affordability and accessibility that should govern the telecommunications sector.
“This administration is committed to promoting the welfare of Nigerian students; hence, it will vehemently oppose any tendency that does not align with this vision.
“NANS is deeply concerned about the adverse impact this tariff hike will have on students, many of whom rely heavily on affordable telecommunications services for academic research, virtual learning, and staying connected with their families.
“Therefore, it is worrisome to comprehend the justifications for these increments, as NANS considers this action a direct threat to the security of Nigerian students and an attempt to further impede their ability to navigate their academic endeavors, maintain familial connections, and secure legitimate personal incomes, particularly for independent students responsible for their upkeep.
“We hereby issue a 72-hour ultimatum to telecommunications companies, the Honourable Minister for Innovation, Digital and Blue Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the Nigerian Communications Commission to reverse this tariff increase and provide a clear roadmap for ensuring affordable telecommunications services for all Nigerians.
“Failure to comply with this ultimatum will leave NANS with no choice but to mobilize students across the nation for a series of peaceful protests to demand justice, accountability, and a comprehensive audit of activities in the telecommunications sector,” NANS stated.
The leadership of NANS maintained that as student representatives, they would not stand idly by while the rights and welfare of Nigerian students, which they have vowed to protect, are trampled upon by greed, “corporate capitalism,” and regulatory complicity.
NANS also called on the Federal Government to intervene promptly and decisively to address this issue.
Additionally, they urged telecommunications companies to prioritize the interests of their customers over profit margins and to engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders to find sustainable solutions rather than inflict further hardship on Nigerians who are already struggling economically.
“As the voice of Nigerian students, NANS remains committed to advocating for policies and actions that promote equity, fairness, and the overall well-being of all Nigerians.
“We will continue to hold all parties and duty-bearers accountable to ensure that the rights of students and citizens are protected,” the statement added.
MyLagos App Unavailable despite Launch with Fanfare
Airtel Launches AI Spam Alert in Nigeria
Allegations of Fraud against us Unfounded, False — First Bank
Nigeria’s Cash Payments to Decline 32% by 2030 on Digital Transaction Surge
NCC, ALTON, LASIMRA Engage to Strengthen Telecom Infrastructure in Lagos
General News3 days agoDaphne Dafinone, CBN GOV’s Ally Facing Alleged N100m Fraud Charges – Police
E-Business2 days agoMillions of Nigerians @ Risk as NASIMS Leaks over 23m FG Records
Telecom3 days agoLagos Lawyer Sues MTN, Seeks Dissolution of Board
Telecom3 days ago9Mobile Dispute: Hayatu, Seltrix Respond to Funtua’s Trusteeship Claims
News3 days agoInsurance Operators Tasked on Digital Transformation Business Model
E-Financial3 days agoFlutterwave Gets Ghana Approval to Offer Inward Remittances
E-Business2 days agoKaspersky Uncovers Cybercriminals Blackmailing YouTube Creators to Spread Cryptocurrency Mining Malware
News3 days agoNELFUND Links Loan Portal to Schools for Easy Verification