Author: Akin Naphtal

MTN Nigeria’s stock price surged to ₦256 on Tuesday, reflecting a 9.87% increase following the Nigerian Communication Commission’s (NCC) approval of a 50% hike in telecom tariffs. The development has rekindled investor confidence in the company’s profitability prospects after two years of sustained losses. In contrast, rival Airtel Africa’s stock remained stable, closing at ₦2,159 on Tuesday. The stability underscores the limited impact of the Nigerian tariff adjustment on Airtel’s valuation, given that its listing spans its entire African business portfolio. Tuesday’s closing price marks MTN Nigeria’s highest level since March 2024, when the stock traded at ₦267.80. Back in…

Ericsson has announced the appointment of Majda Lahlou Kassi as Vice President and Head of Customer Unit West & Southern Africa at its Middle East and Africa, This development highlights Ericsson’s continued focus on driving Africa’s digital transformation and unlocking the continent’s vast potential. Majda brings over 26 years of extensive experience in the telecom industry, with expertise in sales, technical operations, and customer project management. Her contributions have been pivotal in implementing transformative projects across Africa and the broader region. In her new role, she will lead efforts to support Africa’s ambitions for economic diversification and digital transformation, fostering…

Bayobab Nigeria has announced the appointment of Mazen Mroué as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MTN Digital Infrastructure. In his new role, Mroué will oversee Bayobab’s Fixed Infrastructure and Communication Platforms business units. He is also tasked with executing the company’s Data Centre Business Strategy, which aims to position Bayobab for growth and profitability while advancing artificial intelligence (AI) development across Africa. Mroué, a seasoned leader in the telecommunications and technology sectors, brings over 26 years of experience, a visionary approach, and a proven track record in driving innovation and achieving results. His leadership marks a pivotal moment…

The African startup hub demonstrated resilience and growth in 2024, raising $2.2 billion in funding despite a decline from the $2.9 billion recorded in 2023. According to data from Africa: The Big Deal, which tracks startup deals of $100,000 and above, 51% of this funding was dominated by just ten companies, including Moniepoint, Tyme, and MNT-Halan. These key players highlight a continued focus on innovation and market expansion across the continent. Big Four Dominate the Funding Space The “Big Four” countries—Kenya, Nigeria, Egypt, and South Africa—continued to lead the charge, collectively securing 84% of the total funding. Kenya topped the…

Hon. William Kabogo Gitau has stepped into the role of Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy in Kenya, taking over from Dr Margaret Ndung’u who was assigned to another role. Kabogo entered the political arena in 2002, vying for the Juja Parliamentary Seat under the KANU ticket. Although unsuccessful in his first attempt, he demonstrated resilience by switching to the lesser-known Sisi Kwa Sisi party, where he triumphed over the incumbent, Stephen Ndichu, in the general elections. However, his political career faced a hurdle in 2007 when George Thuo claimed the seat. Refusing to…

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a 50% tariff increase for telecom operators, marking the first significant hike in the sector in nearly 11 years. The decision comes amid rising inflation and economic pressures following the naira’s devaluation. Despite previously maintaining a firm stance against raising voice and data costs, the NCC cited mounting financial losses in the sector as a key factor behind the adjustment. According to sources, telecom companies initiated discussions with the regulator in October 2024, pushing for a 100% increase in tariffs to offset their financial challenges. However, due to its potential unpopularity, the NCC…

Samuel Nartey George is set to take the reins of Ghana’s ICT sector and digital economy from her predecessor Ursula Owusu-Ekufu as the Minister-Designate for Communications and Digit alisation to spearhead the country’s ICT sector and digital economy into a transformative era under the John Mahama-led administration. With a blend of academic brilliance, political savvy, and an unwavering commitment to progress, Sam George is recommended to steer Ghana into a new era of technological advancement. Born on January 22, 1985, in Somanya, Eastern Region, Sam George’s journey from Ahwiam in Old Ningo to the forefront of Ghanaian politics is a…

The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Vincent Olatunji, has projected that the global economic and social costs of cybercrime will surpass $20 trillion by 2026. He disclosed this during his keynote address at the 2025 Smartcomply Compliance and Cybersecurity Breakfast Session held in Lagos. Olatunji highlighted the critical role of the private sector in ensuring data protection and compliance with Nigeria’s data protection laws, including mandatory NDPC registration. He urged the industry to embrace compliance as a cultural norm, focusing on awareness campaigns, training, and stringent enforcement as key elements of Nigeria’s 2025 data protection…

The UK government has announced plans to roll out digital driving licenses later this year as part of its efforts to leverage technology to modernize public services. The digital licenses will be accessible through a virtual wallet within a government app, rather than being integrated into third-party platforms like Google or Apple wallets. These virtual licenses could serve as identification for activities such as voting, purchasing alcohol, or boarding domestic flights. While physical driving licenses will still be issued, the government emphasized that the new digital option will remain voluntary. A government spokesperson stated: “Technology now makes it possible for…

The Kenyan government will now require social media companies to establish physical offices within the country, signaling a move towards tighter regulation of digital platforms. The announcement came from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration following discussions with stakeholders in the telecommunications and social media sectors. In a statement, the ministry emphasized the need to address the misuse of social media and technology, including harassment, hate speech, and incitement to violence. “We arrived at a consensus on the need to curb misuse of technology and social media, including enhancing the physical presence of key operators,” the statement read. This…