Commencing February 1, 2024, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has exclusively designated its mobile application for services like New Service, Separate Metres, and Additional Load applications. This shift aligns with ECG’s commitment to digital transformation and enhanced customer support. Customers applying through the app are urged to provide precise information, as contact will be established based on the details furnished. The application process mandates the submission of necessary paperwork for efficient processing. As a government-owned entity under the Ministry of Energy, ECG has been a pivotal electricity provider to southern Ghana. Notably, in 2020, the Ghanaian government introduced an…
Author: Amarachi Bella
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has introduced the state’s electronic Geographic Information System (GIS) – a revolutionary land administration portal. The unveiling on Friday marked the commencement of electronic land registration across the state. Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the portal is a key element of his administration’s commitment to fostering business growth in the state. The platform aims to streamline the cumbersome manual registration process, allowing residents to register their lands from the comfort of their homes. Online payment options, document retrieval, and applications for Certificates of Occupancy are among the conveniences offered by the portal. Speaking on the…
In a significant move to usher in a new era of technological advancement in public service, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has inaugurated the DevsInGovernment community. This initiative aligns with President @officialABAT’s mandate to leverage digital technology for the modernization of public institutions. DevInGovernment is envisioned as a collaborative space for technologists and tech enthusiasts operating within the public service domain. The community’s primary objectives include fostering collaboration, facilitating knowledge sharing, and driving innovation. By bringing together minds from diverse backgrounds, the initiative aims to contribute to a more efficient, transparent, and responsive government. The…
The Federal Government has revealed the intricacies of the newly established Student Loan Scheme, emphasizing that the Education Tax managed by the Federal Inland Revenue Service would contribute to its funding. Sawyerr, the Executive Secretary of the Scheme, outlined the conditions needed for the loan application, during his inaugural public briefing. Prospective applicants are required to furnish essential details, including their JAMB registration number, date of birth, National Identification Number (NIN), and Biometric Verification Number (BVN). Sawyerr underscored the significance of these criteria, stating, “The NIN confirms that they are Nigerians, as this loan is funded by Nigerian taxpayers.” “It will…
Unilever Nigeria Plc has officially halted production and sale of home care and skin cleansing products, including popular brands like Omo, Sunlight, and Lux. The decision comes 10 months after the company initially announced plans to exit these markets. Mr. Michael Ikpoki has been appointed as the interim chairman of the Board, taking over from His Majesty, Nnaemeka A. Achebe. Unilever revealed that production and sales of the discontinued brands concluded in December 2023. To streamline operations, Unilever has leased the factory used for these products to a third party for a 10-year period, with annual rental payments. The company…
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is gearing up for its first policy meeting of the year. The meeting scheduled for February 26th and 27th, was outlined in the draft agenda on the apex bank’s website. Governor Yemi Cardoso, leading the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) for the first time, will preside over this meeting—one of six planned for 2024. The subsequent gatherings are slated for March, May, July, September, and November, providing a comprehensive framework for the MPC’s discussions throughout the year. The last MPC meeting, held in July under the then-suspended governor, Godwin Emefiele, witnessed a historic benchmark rate…
GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria Plc has achieved a milestone with the approval of its proposed scheme of arrangement by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Frederick Ichekwai, the company’s secretary, confirmed this development in an official statement filed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX). Following a federal high court order issued on December 5, 2023, in Lagos, addressing distributable profit to shareholders and other exit-related matters, shareholders overwhelmingly endorsed the proposed scheme of arrangement during the meeting. With both SEC approval and a federal high court order in place, GSK Consumer Nigeria is poised to submit an application for the delisting…
E-commerce company, eBay has reached an agreement to pay a $3 million fine to settle harassment charges brought against the company in connection with actions targeting bloggers critical of its practices. Former senior director Jim Baugh, along with six associates, were involved in a campaign against Ina and David Steiner, who produced a newsletter that displeased eBay executives. The harassment tactics included disturbing acts, such as sending live spiders, cockroaches, a foetal pig, and even a funeral wreath to the Steiners’ residence. The campaign escalated further with the installation of a GPS tracking device on their car and the creation…
Elon Musk’s social media company, X, formerly known as Twitter, is set to launch a peer-to-peer payment system this year. Musk envisions transforming the platform into an all-encompassing ‘everything’ app, integrating features such as payments, creator tools, and shopping. The introduction of peer-to-peer payments aims to not only enhance user utility but also open new avenues for commerce, aligning with Musk’s vision of users living their “life in one place.” Currently licensed for payment processing in 14 U.S. states, X recently expanded its reach to include Arkansas and Pennsylvania. Musk’s vision extends to a seamless platform where users can effortlessly send…
Minister of Works David Umahi has ordered the incorporation of advanced tech like CCTV cameras and solar lighting on nine major highways managed by private investors through the Highway Development and Management Initiative. This move aims to bolster security and improve transportation efficiency. The initiative, established in May 2023, involves a Public-Private Partnership to upgrade highways, generate substantial revenue, and boost economic activities. Despite an initial delay in the project commencement, Umahi’s recent directive emphasizes expediting the implementation process. He emphasized the need for transparency, adherence to standards, and efficiency in contract negotiations. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of reviewing…
The popular mobile game, “Kim Kardashian: Hollywood,” is saying goodbye after nearly ten years. The game has stopped letting people buy things in the app, and it’s no longer available to download from app stores. Made by Glu Mobile and launched in June 2014, the game lets players try to become big Hollywood stars by doing different tasks and building their fame. In the game, players complete jobs like modeling, going to clubs, going on dates, and acting to gain fans, money, and experience points. Even though the game was free, players could buy stuff like clothes, accessories, and energy…
The potential shift towards Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for WAEC exams has caused concern among Northern Youths, particularly the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF). They have requested for the cancellation of these plans, fearing widespread failure in rural areas due to limited computer skills. WAEC’s recent decision to replace paper-and-pencil tests with CBT was justified as following “global best practices.” However, AYCF’s National President, Yerima Shettima, suggested an alternative: making CBT optional. This would empower students to choose the format they are most comfortable with for demonstrating their knowledge. AYCF conducted research in states like Zamfara, Jigawa, and Taraba, revealing that…
As of December 31, 2023, 104.16 million Nigerians have successfully received their National Identification Numbers (NIN), marking a significant uptick in enrollment. The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) reported a substantial increase from 94.03 million NINs issued by the end of 2022, with 10.13 million new enrollments recorded in 2023 alone. In a bid to accelerate NIN issuance and bolster digital identity systems, the World Bank has set an ambitious target of 148 million registrations by June 2024, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive national identification. New Director-General Aims for Expedited Issuance The recent appointment of Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote as the…
An Akwa Ibom-based Syringe Manufacturing Company, named Jubilee, situated in former Governor Udom Emmanuel’s hometown, Awa-Iman, has ceased operations temporarily due to economic hardships in the country. Owned by Turkish national Onur Kumral, the company cited high import duties on raw materials, a soaring dollar, and exorbitant power costs as significant hurdles. Managing Director Akin Oyediran confirmed the shutdown, expressing intentions to restructure and return stronger in the future. Oyediran acknowledged economic strains, stating, “The economic issues have taken a toll on us as a company.” However, he refrained from predicting a timeframe for resumption, highlighting the uncertainties faced amid…
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has disclosed plans to implement stricter regulations governing digital lending practices in 2024. This decision comes as a response to the escalating default rates observed within the country’s digital lending landscape. Babatunde Irukera, CEO of the FCCPC, emphasized the necessity of establishing ethical and appropriate loan recovery methods. Despite a notable reduction in harassment within the sector, he highlighted persistently high default rates as a cause for concern. Irukera stressed the significance of a more prudent approach to loan recovery, hinting that the upcoming regulations aim to strike a balance between responsible…
Saudi Arabia has achieved a remarkable feat, securing the second spot in the 2023 International Telecommunication Union (ITU) index among G20 nations. This index measures a country’s advancement in technology, and Saudi Arabia earned an impressive score of 94.9 points, positioning itself as a potential technology hub, alluring foreign talent. The ITU’s ICT Development Index assesses 169 economies based on factors like quality infrastructure and accessible internet for everyone. Saudi Arabia surpassed several G20 peers, including the UK and Japan, scoring higher than the global average of 72.8. However, the United States claimed the top position with 96.6 points. Saudi…
In today’s tech-driven world, our phones hold a lot of personal information – from sensitive messages to private photos. Keeping this information safe is crucial. That’s where you need privacy screen. What is a Privacy Screen Protector? A privacy screen protector is a thin layer that you can put on your phone’s screen. It looks like a regular screen protector, but it has a special feature: it limits the viewing angles. This means only the person directly in front of the screen can see what’s on it, while others around cannot. Why You Need It? Safeguard Your Privacy: Have you…
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has cautioned students taking the WASSCE to steer clear of fraudulent websites falsely claiming ties to the exam body. The Acting Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina, issued a warning about a specific website promising online classes for WASSCE candidates. WAEC stressed it has no links with this site and cautioned it might be a scam aiming to collect personal details. To ensure accurate and reliable information, WAEC recommended its official e-learning portal: WAEC Online e-Learning. The council emphasized its commitment to providing credible information and urged candidates to utilize its authorized e-learning platform.…
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has instructed major telecom companies like MTN, Airtel, and Globacom to block phone lines without National Identification Numbers (NINs) by February 28, 2024. This directive also applies to users who have submitted their NINs but remain unverified. Phone numbers linked to unverified NINs with five or more associated lines will be barred by March 29, 2024, while those with fewer than five linked lines will face disconnection by April 15, 2024. To restore services, affected subscribers must complete a verification process involving biometrics and personal data. MTN Nigeria notified the Nigeria Stock Exchange about this…
CEO of deVere Group, Nigel Green has unveiled six predictions that is likely to shape the Fintech world in the coming year, 2024. deVere Group is one of the world’s major independent financial advisory and asset management firms. It is no longer news that Fintech is already experiencing swift and transformative advancements. Below are the predictions: – Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin will keep getting popular. Big investors are getting interested, and traditional banks are starting to accept them. This could change how people invest money and make international payments. – Digital currencies made by central banks (CBDCs) will also become a…
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) took a significant step in safeguarding its 39 substations in the Lagos Zone by installing CCTV cameras. This move comes as a response to a string of deliberate attacks on TCN’s transmission towers in 2022, totaling 10 incidents. Mojeed Akintola, TCN’s General Manager, emphasized this action during a recent inspection of ongoing and completed projects in Lagos State. The primary goal behind the CCTV installation is to closely monitor these critical locations, effectively deterring potential vandals. TCN is working closely with security agencies and engaging local leaders to tackle the issue of vandalism. Additionally, measures have…
American multinational corporation Procter and Gamble (P&G) has announced the termination of its operations in Nigeria, a move that is expected to result in the loss of over 5000 jobs. This exit follows a trend set by GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria, which announced plans to leave the country after 51 years. P&G’s decision to transition to an import-only model is attributed to tough market competition and a decline in consumer buying power in Nigeria. The recent devaluation of the country’s currency, the naira, has added to the challenges faced by businesses operating there. “Operating in Nigeria’s current macroeconomic environment has become increasingly difficult,”…
Jumia, a leading e-commerce platform, has named Sunil Natraj as the CEO for Nigeria. Natraj will assume his new position on Monday, January 1st, 2024. Sunil Natraj will take over from Massimiliano Spalazzi, who will step down from his position on December 31st, 2023. Francis Dufay, the CEO of Jumia Group, expressed gratitude to Massimiliano for his 11-year tenure at Jumia and extended congratulations to Sunil for his new role. Sunil joined Jumia in 2022, initially serving as the VP of Sales and Marketing in Lagos. He later oversaw Jumia Express logistics and held the position of CEO for Jumia…
OpenAI Unveils SantaGPT, a Festive Chatbot for Gift Ideas In preparation for the holiday season, OpenAI has announced the launch of SantaGPT, an innovative chatbot powered by the advanced GPT-4 model. SantaGPT is tailored specifically for ChatGPT Plus subscribers, focusing on suggesting personalized Christmas gift ideas. Hailing from the virtual “North Pole,” SantaGPT embodies the spirit of the season, offering users an interactive and delightful experience. The AI chatbot’s primary objective is to assist subscribers in discovering suitable gifts while fostering a festive atmosphere. Accessible through the ChatGPT app on smartphones or the desktop web browser, SantaGPT aims to make…
OpenAI’s anticipated GPT Store, an app store for AI, won’t debut this year as planned. Instead, the company announced it’s set for an early 2024 launch due to recent leadership changes in November. A memo sent to users and developers outlined the delay, citing unforeseen tasks keeping the team occupied. The GPT Store promises enhancements like a better configuration interface and debug messages upon its release. Despite the initial announcement at OpenAI’s Dev Day conference in November, unanswered questions lingered about charging customers and compensating developers. The delay, influenced by a leadership transition and loose launch plans, was expected given…
If you’re thinking about getting something like a car, furniture, or other expensive items, you might have heard about rent financing. It’s a way to pay for things by renting them rather than buying outright. But why would this be a good idea for you? Here are five simple reasons why rent financing might be the better choice: Lower Initial Costs: Rent financing often requires a smaller upfront payment compared to buying outright. This means you can get the item you need without needing a huge sum of money right away. Instead, you make smaller payments over time. Flexible Payments:…
The Federal Government, through the National Communication Commission (NCC) has launched the Young Innovative Builders (YIB) to reward Nigerian students in universities who create smart solutions while studying. Any student who finishes industrial training and develops a solution for societal issues during that period can participate. The programme honours students nationwide who have undergone industrial training, recognizing its role in applying knowledge practically. YIB aims to acknowledge innovative ideas by young Nigerians, supporting the Ministry’s digital economy expansion goals. The top 48 innovative solutions in each state will get laptops, while the next 40 best solutions will receive tablets. To…
In today’s world, the internet plays a big role in our lives. We use it for learning, playing, and staying connected with friends and family. But as much as the internet offers, it also poses risks, especially for parents whose children navigate the online world. Did you know that what your child does online could affect your digital life too? Yes, it’s true. Their mistakes or missteps on the internet could have serious consequences for you as well. Social Media Mishaps: Sometimes, kids don’t realize the impact of what they post on social media. They might share something inappropriate or hurtful without…
Amazon employees at the company’s Coventry site in the UK are set to go on strike on Black Friday, a peak shopping day, due to unresolved concerns regarding pay. Members of the GMB union intend to gather outside the facility, with more than 1,000 workers expected to participate in the protest. This strike coincides with similar demonstrations happening across Europe and the United States, making it potentially the largest collective action against Amazon to date. Amanda Gearing, a representative of the GMB union, described this event as a pivotal moment in Amazon’s history, emphasizing the workers’ call for a fairer distribution…
The Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy has forged a groundbreaking partnership with Starlink aimed at fostering job creation opportunities for Nigerians. Minister Bosun Tijani revealed that this collaboration intends to offer employment through local maintenance and the production of hardware associated with the Starlink satellite network. In a statement shared on Sunday via his verified social media handle, Tijani disclosed that the discussions took place during the sidelines of the ongoing International Telecommunication Union-World Radio Communication (ITU-WRC) Conference held in Dubai. He met with Ryan Goodnight, the Senior Director of Global Licensing and Activation at SpaceX, to explore…
