Cover

Coalition Commends NCC’s Rural Internet Expansion for Driving Development and Investment

Published

7 months ago

August 13, 2025

The Coalition for Inclusive Digital Growth (CIDG) has commended the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for its sweeping rural broadband expansion and infrastructure rollout, describing it as a major driver of economic growth, social inclusion, and investor confidence in Nigeria’s underserved communities.

In a statement signed by its President, Peter Ezza, and issued in Abuja on Wednesday, the CIDG said the NCC under the leadership of Dr. Aminu Maida, its Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), has demonstrated rare foresight in ensuring that digital transformation is not limited to urban areas but reaches deep into rural and remote communities.

Ezza noted that the NCC’s recent policies and projects ranging from the licensing of more infrastructure companies to the deployment of additional base transceiver stations have significantly closed the connectivity gap in several parts of the country where residents previously had little or no access to reliable internet services.

“Connectivity is no longer a luxury; it is the foundation of modern economic activity. By expanding broadband access to rural and underserved areas, the NCC has empowered millions of Nigerians to participate in the digital economy, access online education, improve agricultural productivity through real-time information, and connect to broader markets. This is the kind of regulatory leadership that drives sustainable development,” Ezza said.

The CIDG also praised the Commission for its ability to attract massive investments into the telecoms sector despite global economic headwinds.

The coalition cited recent figures indicating that the sector has consistently drawn multi-billion-dollar commitments from both local and foreign investors, thanks in large part to a stable and forward-looking regulatory environment fostered by the NCC.

“Investors will always go where there is predictability, security, and growth potential. The NCC has provided a clear policy direction, created incentives for network expansion, and upheld industry standards that make Nigeria an attractive destination for telecoms and tech investments,” he added.

Beyond infrastructure, the coalition applauded the NCC’s ongoing regulatory reforms, which it said have not only modernised the telecoms framework but also prepared the sector for future demands, including 5G deployment, emerging technologies, and the increasing convergence of telecoms, fintech, and e-commerce.

According to the statement, the NCC’s initiatives to strengthen cybersecurity readiness and consumer protection have been equally important.

Ezza said that by equipping users with knowledge about online safety, enforcing data protection rules, and ensuring that service providers meet quality benchmarks, the Commission has boosted public trust in the digital ecosystem.

He pointed out that in many rural communities, where cyber awareness is traditionally low, NCC-led consumer outreach campaigns have improved understanding of online risks and encouraged safer digital practices. This, he argued, is a critical factor in ensuring that new internet users are not only connected but also protected.

The CIDG maintained that the ripple effects of rural broadband penetration are already visible in increased entrepreneurial activities, expansion of e-commerce in local markets, improved access to health information, and stronger linkages between rural economies and national value chains.

“Every new base station in a rural community is not just a tower; it is a beacon of opportunity. We have seen young people start businesses online, farmers check commodity prices before selling, and health workers use telemedicine platforms to save lives. These are the tangible, life-changing impacts of the NCC’s rural connectivity drive,” Ezza noted.

The coalition urged the Commission to maintain the current momentum, stressing that sustained investment in rural connectivity would be essential to achieving Nigeria’s targets for inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and global competitiveness.

“With the right support and continued commitment, the NCC can ensure that no Nigerian is left behind in the digital age,” the statement added

Cover

Army Supply and Transport Corps Reviews Operations, Targets Improved Service Delivery

Published

53 minutes ago

March 24, 2026

Daily Mirror

The Commander, Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport (CCST), Maj.-Gen. Nansak Danjuma Shagaya, has commenced a two-day conference aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and service delivery in support of Nigerian Army missions.

The conference, with the theme “Optimising ST Capabilities Towards Providing Effective Service Delivery to Nigerian Army Operations in All Missions,” began on Tuesday at the Muhammadu Buhari Auditorium, Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport (NASST), Benin City, Edo State.

Shagaya said the conference was designed to review the Corps’ performance in ongoing military operations and provide a platform for strategic reflection, institutional learning, and collective problem-solving.

He noted that the forum would enable commanders to exchange ideas, assess operational realities, evaluate emerging challenges, and develop strategies to strengthen logistics support in a dynamic security environment.

“The contemporary operational landscape in which the Nigerian Army operates is increasingly complex and multidimensional,” he said.

“Modern military operations are characterised by fluid threat dynamics, technological evolution, and heightened demands on operational sustainability. In such an environment, the role of logistics has become even more critical.”

The CCST added that the conference would facilitate frank and professional engagement among senior officers to review operational commitments, examine institutional challenges, and explore innovative approaches to improve efficiency.

He urged participants to approach discussions with professionalism and a shared commitment to strengthening the Corps’ effectiveness.

Earlier, the Commandant of NASST, Maj.-Gen. Adebayo Olatunde Adegbite, said the conference would provide an avenue for interaction between the Corps Commander, field commanders, and senior officers on achieving the Nigerian Army’s mission.

Adegbite said the engagement aligns with the Corps’ command philosophy of developing a highly proficient Supply and Transport Corps capable of efficiently supporting the Army in fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities.

He added that the conference would promote knowledge sharing, address operational challenges, and enhance service delivery.

Highlights of the event include the commissioning of a Soldiers’ Dining Hall, a remodeled NASST Driving Simulation Centre, the unveiling of Col. I. Taiwo Crescent, and a group photograph.

The conference will also feature a Pulling-Out Ceremony and Gala Night in honour of retired generals of the Corps on March 26.

Cover

NUJ FCT Chairman, Grace Ike, Hailed as Transformative Leader on Birthday

Published

8 hours ago

March 24, 2026

Daily Mirror

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Grace Ike, has been described as a transformative leader in the media profession as she marks her birthday.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, a former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Evelyn Onyilo, commended Ike for breaking barriers and redefining leadership within the union.

Onyilo noted that Ike made history as the first female chairman of the NUJ FCT Council in over four decades, describing her emergence as a significant milestone for women in journalism.

She said Ike’s tenure had been marked by remarkable achievements, particularly in infrastructural development and the welfare of members, adding that her leadership had also strengthened participation and unity within the union.

“Her tenure has witnessed unprecedented development and effective mobilisation of members to actively participate in the affairs of the union, making her a foremost transformative leader of our era,” Onyilo said.

The publisher of Phenomenal People Magazine further described Ike as a media icon of immense value, praying for greater accomplishments, good health, and continued success in her leadership journey.

Onyilo congratulated Ike on her birthday and wished her many more years of impactful service.

Cover

COAS Salutes Troops’ Sacrifice, Hosts Special Sallah Luncheon in Edo

Published

2 days ago

March 22, 2026

Daily Mirror

he Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, hosted a special Sallah luncheon for troops of the Forward Operations Base (FOB) Sobe in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State as part of activities marking the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

Speaking at the event, the COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving troop welfare and boosting morale through strategic initiatives. He urged the soldiers to remain resolute in their duty to defend the nation’s peace, unity, and territorial integrity.

Represented by the Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, the Army Chief commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism despite operating under challenging conditions. He noted that their sacrifices and dedication embody the true spirit of the Nigerian soldier.

“They serve in difficult and often demanding environments, far from the comfort of their homes, yet remain steadfast in loyalty and professionalism.

Their endurance, sacrifice, and courage represent the true spirit of the Nigerian soldier,” he said, while praying for their safety and success in ongoing operations.

The COAS also lauded the continued collaboration between the Nigerian Army and other security and intelligence agencies, describing inter-agency synergy as critical to sustaining operational success and national stability.

He further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support and commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the military, noting that the President’s leadership remains a strong source of motivation for the Armed Forces.

In his welcome address, the Commander, FOB Sobe, Lieutenant Colonel Stanley Agboro, described the COAS luncheon as a significant annual tradition held during major festive periods, including Eid-el-Fitr, Eid-el-Kabir, Easter, and Christmas.

He said the initiative is aimed at boosting troop morale, recognising their sacrifices, honouring fallen heroes, and strengthening camaraderie within the ranks.

Agboro appreciated the Brigade Commander and his entourage for visiting the base to celebrate with the troops. He also acknowledged the presence of the Vice Chairman of Owan West Local Government Area, Mr Dele Aleburu, who represented the council chairperson, Madam Joy Ohonyon, as well as the traditional ruler of Sobe, HRH Anthony Ero Aleburu I, and heads of other security agencies in the area.

The event featured a luncheon, cultural dance performances, comedy presentations, and morale-boosting songs by the troops.