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Nigerians to Pay More on Calls, Data In 2023
The 160 million mobile phone users in the country, are expected to pay more on calls and data in 2023 as the federal government infused 5 per cent excise duty on telecoms services in the 2022 Finance Bill before the National Assembly.
The federal government had mooted such idea, earlier in the year, but suspended it after much outcry only to now resurface in the 2022 Finance Bill currently before the National Assembly(NASS) for passage into an Act.
The bill, when it becomes law, is expected to be a working tool for the economy in 2023.
Investigation revealed that inclusion of this tax is a continuation of the federal government aggressive move to generate more revenue through tax to finance 2023 national budget.
This development, however, did not go down well with Telecoms operators who said, they will pass on the new tax down to consumers, even as the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) has threatened to take federal government to court next week, if it fails to step down the proposed 5 per cent telecoms services tax in the 2022 Finance Bill.
A document titled ‘Invitation to a One Day Public Hearing and Submission of Memoranda on the 2022 Finance Bill,’ released by the House of Representatives Committee on Finance, revealed that, telecommunication services provided in Nigeria shall be charged with duties of excise at the rates specified under the duty column in the Schedule as the President may by Order prescribe pursuant to Section 13 of this Act.
The document stated that, the reason for the excise duty was to increase revenue generation/tax administration.
Although, the said document did not specify the rate at which the excise duty would be charged, investigation revealed that the duty is 5 per cent.
If passed into law, the telecommunication operators, under the aegis of the Association of Licenced Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), reiterated that the cost will be passed on to Nigerians, as operators cannot bear the cost alone.
The head, operations at Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbolahan Awonuga said,, it is sad to know that despite the plea from different stakeholders in the ICT sector, the federal government still insisted on imposing excise duty on telecoms services after it was suspended.
This will definitely compel operators to adjust the rates of calls and data upward, as they cannot bear the cost alone, Awonuga added.
He revealed that, since 2003, operators didn’t review the tariff, not because it has been all great, (like other sectors, telecommunication industry was financially impacted following Nigeria’s economic recession in 2020), but because, they didn’t want to add unnecessary financial burden on Nigerians.
The head of operations, ALTON further explained that most telecoms operators don’t rely on the national grid to power their towers, adding that, the cost of diesel required to power operators’ Towers, Base Stations and offices rose by a staggering 233 per cent from N225 per litre in January 2022 to over N750 per litre in December 2022.
“Additionally, the introduction of new lines of fiscal obligations via the Excise Duty of 5 per cent on telecommunications services further exacerbates the burden of multiple taxes and levies in the sector,” he added.
These and many other reasons, justify why telecoms operators will increase voice and SMS tariff, if the federal government insists on the five per cent excise duty on telecoms services, Awonuga averred.
Recalling that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has, in October 2022, asked all telecommunications services providers to reverse the upward tariff adjustments for some voice and data services, Awonuga said, it will be a joke, if the Commission restricts operators from increasing call tariff, once the five per cent excise duty is passed into law. “It means NCC wants to destroy the industry,” he stated.
He, however, called on Nigerians to kick against the five per cent excise duty, as they will be mostly affected. “Operators cannot absorb all the cost, as they will have to pass some of it on the consumers, to remain in business,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the national president, National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS), Chief Adeolu Ogunbanjo said, the association will be left with no other option than to take the federal government to court if it decided to implement the five per cent excise duty on telecoms services.
Ogunbanjo said, there are 39 other taxes that the Telecoms sector is paying to the federal government, states government and local government, but the majority of the tax go to the pocket of the federal government.
Adding more tax to the sector is so insensitive on the part of the federal government, NATCOMS’ president said, adding that, telecoms subscribers would resist the new tax regime, because of its grievous implications on subscribers and the telecoms sector.
He stated that the minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami kicked against the five per cent excise duty, other agencies like the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) and NATCOMS also condemned the five per cent excise duty on telecommunications services.
It is sad that the ministry of finance did not listen to our plea and cry, Ogunbanjo said, adding that, “We are left with no other option than to go to court. By first week of January, 2023, we are going to court.”
He however appealed to the father figure of president Muhammadu Buhari and the mother figure of the minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed, to reconsider their decision.
Cycling enthusiasts, gear up for an exhilarating experience this Saturday, November 23rd, as FXTM proudly sponsors the Lagos State Monthly Crit at Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos.
Interested participants should register at 6:30 AM and prepare for the main race, kicking off at 7:30 AM. Participants will compete for four thrilling hours in three categories: Professional, Junior, and Veteran.
The top prize starts at $500, adding an exciting competitive edge to the event. There will also be refreshments, music and an opportunity to socialize with like-minded individuals.
FXTM, known for its global commitment to promoting fitness through charitable cycling events, is thrilled to bring this spirited race to Lagos. Riding has always been synonymous to freedom, matching the company’s value of freedom to succeed.
The event not only aims to foster a love for cycling but also to enhance community fitness and well-being.
The stand-in Country Representative for FXTM, Kelechi Ehibudu said: “We are thrilled and delighted to sponsor this event as part of our charitable project.
“We look forward to an exciting time with all participants from all works of life. It’s going to be action packed event.”
Thembi Alfreds was driving home from a soccer match in Johannesburg when she stopped at a traffic light. A thief suddenly appeared and smashed the window of her car, grabbing her phone. She struggled with the thief but they managed to get away with the phone.
The incident left her feeling violated and unsafe. Not only did she lose personal memories, like photos of her children, but her personal and financial information stored on the phone was now compromised.
Phone theft is a serious concern in many countries across Africa, including South Africa, where Thembi’s situation highlights the need for better phone theft solutions.
Smartphone usage is on the rise in Sub-Saharan Africa, with adoption rates reaching 61% in Kenya, 31% in Uganda, and 24-25% in Rwanda and Burundi. This increased uptake has been accompanied by a rise in cellphone theft, as these devices become attractive targets for criminals due to their resale value and sensitive data within. This poses a significant challenge that can have serious consequences for both individuals and businesses in the region.
According to the GSMA Consumer Survey 2023, 19% of mobile phone users in South Africa experienced theft or loss of their device in the past year.The GSMA reports millions of devices stolen every year, and the numbers continue to grow. With our phones becoming increasingly more valuable & central to storing sensitive data, like payment information and personal details, losing one can be an unsettling experience.
Phone theft can be a traumatic experience, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk and protect personal information. That’s why we have developed and thoroughly beta tested, a full suite of features designed to protect you and your data at every stage – before, during, and after device theft.
These advanced theft protection features are now available to users around the world through Android 15 and a Google Play Services update (Android 10+ devices).
Theft Detection Lock uses powerful AI to proactively protect you at the moment of a theft attempt. By using on-device machine learning, Theft Detection Lock is able to analyze various device signals to detect potential theft attempts. If the algorithm detects a potential theft attempt on your unlocked device, it locks your screen to keep thieves out.To protect your sensitive data if your phone is stolen, Theft Detection Lock uses device sensors to identify theft attempts.
This feature is rolling out gradually to ensure compatibility with various devices, starting today with Android devices that cover 90% of active users worldwide. Check your theft protection settings page periodically to see if your device is currently supported.
In addition to Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock protects you if a thief tries to take your device offline to extract data or avoid a remote wipe via Android’s Find My Device. If an unlocked device goes offline for prolonged periods, this feature locks the screen to ensure your phone can’t be used in the hands of a thief.
If your Android device is lost or stolen, Remote Lock can quickly help you secure it. Even if you can’t remember your Google account credentials in the moment of theft, you can use any device to visit Android.com/lock and lock your phone with just a verified phone number. Remote Lock secures your device while you regain access through Android’s Find My Device – which lets you secure, locate or remotely wipe your device. As a security best practice, we always recommend backing up your device on a continuous basis, so remotely wiping your device is not an issue.
These features are now available on most Android 10+ devices via a Google Play Services update and must be enabled in settings.
Advanced security to deter theft before it happens
Android 15 introduces new security features to deter theft before it happens by making it harder for thieves to access sensitive settings, apps, or reset your device for resale:
- Changes to sensitive settings like Find My Device now require your PIN, password, or biometric authentication.
- Multiple failed login attempts, which could be a sign that a thief is trying to guess your password, will lock down your device, preventing unauthorized access.
- And enhanced factory reset protection makes it even harder for thieves to reset your device without your Google account credentials, significantly reducing its resale value and protecting your data.
Later this year, we’ll launch Identity Check, an opt-in feature that will add an extra layer of protection by requiring biometric authentication when accessing critical Google account and device settings, like changing your PIN, disabling theft protection, or accessing Passkeys from an untrusted location. This helps prevent unauthorized access even if your device PIN is compromised.
Real-world protection for billions of Android users
By integrating advanced technology like AI and biometric authentication, we’re making Android devices less appealing targets for thieves to give you greater peace of mind. These theft protection features are just one example of how Android is working to provide real-world protection for everyone. We’re dedicated to working with our partners around the world to continuously improve Android security and help you and your data stay safe.
You can turn on the new Android theft features by clicking here on a supported Android device. Learn more about our theft protection features by visiting our help center.
Lagos State Government has awarded a whooping sum of N100 million in grants to 26 successful young agripreneurs at the maiden edition of Agrinnovation.
The grant award ceremony took place yesterday, Tuesday 14, November 2024 at Marcelina house Ikeja Lagos, and was attended by top government official from the Lagos State Government and technocrats of renown.
Agrinnovation, was not only the the very first of its kind, but an audacious step which was organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, in conjunction with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), and the Eko Innovation Centre and designed to foster meaningful conversations, collaboration, and groundbreaking innovations within the agricultural sector.
Some of the successful young startup agriprenuer who benefitted from the Lagos State Government include; Farmcraft Foods limited, Rehoboth 910, Foodie world, Hommal foods, Ofadahub Nigeria limited, Dharkag Empire limited, D-olivette Renewable Energy and Green Mall.
Others are; Dehydrator hub, Agricfood Technology limited, Corporate farmers international limited, Ultra Farms Integrated Ventures limited, Eti Farms Global limited, Hairat Ajao & Co ( Fisherwoman, Happy Coffee, Ecotutu Limited, Ofadaboy Company, Leky Mills Limited, Yellow fish limited, Ufarmy Ecoedu-Tech Solution Limited, Fauzziyah’s Honey Limited, Green Republic Limited, Price Pally Limited among others.
In his address, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ably represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Ayinde, stated that the state will not stop until she achieves food security and production serving as an example to other parts of the nation and Africa.
He also said that the gesture is a symbol of what the state can achieve when it trusts the youth to lead and supports them in doing so.
His words, “We gather here with the purpose to build sustainable agriculture and food system for the next generation and to ensure that Lagos not only sustains itself but leads Nigeria and Africa towards food security and agricultural excellence.
“As a government, we understand that agriculture development depends on more than just traditional practices. It requires us to embrace technology, foster collaboration and create sustainable practices that endure.
“I want to commend particularly the creation of the Lagos Agrinnovation Club. This club is not just an initiative, it has become a community of young agriprenuers, a hub of creativity and a platform for those who dare to reimagine agriculture.
“This year’s Agrithon saw 316 business case entries from dynamic startups, championed by young people who are driven by their vision to transform agriculture and build sustainable solutions.
The 26 finalists we honour today have not only made it through a rigorous selection process but have also shown us that the future of food in Lagos is brought. With access to mentorship, network and share of the N100 million Agrinnovation Fund, these entrepreneurs will have the resources to take their enterprise’s solutions further”.
He also said that the young entrepreneurs will be monitored to ensure that they use the grant well. “To our Agrithon finalists I urge you to put this funding to excellent use, as you’ve demonstrated through your impressive and innovative ideas”, he added.
Earlier, in her welcome address, Abisola Olusanya, Honourable Commissioner of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems of Lagos state expressed her appreciation to all in attendance and especially to the jurors who worked tirelessly in the selection process of the 26 finalists.
“We would like to thank everyone for being here, especially our jurors, who worked throughout the rigorous process on the Agrithon programme, helping us with the selection process from 316 business entries to 26.
“We are here to celebrate young entrepreneurs who have not waited for the government to give them opportunities but have looked within themselves and others for inspiration. They have made themselves and their enterprises something to be proud of and we are proud to be associated with them.
“They have shown that agriculture is indeed a pathway towards being prosperous as a nation, they have shown passion and connectivity. We are proud to celebrate them, to encourage other people to come into the state.
“We want newcomers to know that there is a lot to gain in the agricultural space and particularly in the direction that the government of Governor Samwo-olu is going, there is enough to unearth in the coming months. It is up to you newcomers to come in and plug into what is happening in the sector.”
Also speaking at event and charging benefiacries of the grants, was Mr Victor Afolabi, the Founder of Eko Innovation Centre, according to him, it was important that entrepreneurs understand that investments should be meant for businesses and not for personal upliftment.
His words; “It’s very important for founders to understand that you are not a celebrity, when you raise funds, use it for the business that it was meant for.”
Afolabi who is a serial entrepreneur, noted that it was necessary for young founders to embody discipline when it came to work, addding that this was contributing to the demise of many young startups in the country.
Corroborating his thoughts, Aisha Raheem, the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Farmz2u, noted the importance of plan and vision.
According to her, many startups lose this vision when they become profitable at the first instance.
This was also echoed by Jummai Abalaka, Founder and Chief Operating Officer (COO) who noted that it was necessary to have a positive attitude towards work.
She said that this works hand in hand to ensure the success of enterprises in the country. They pressed on the matter of separating work from personal wants.
Also speaking at the event, was Prince SJ Samuel, the Chairman of Origin Tech Group who noted that innovation was facing a lot of challenges in the Nigerian landscape.
He pointed out that the average farmer earns about two thousand dollars and takes home about 40%, with more than half of the earnings going into logistics and other expenses.
He also noted that Inflation is very high in the Nigerian economy and food inflation makes up about 38% of that which serves as a major concern in the country.
The entrepreneur stated that the agricultural space contributes about 37% to gdp of the country. Although he a plauded the current administration for its investment in the agricultural sector in the country, compared to its predecessors.
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