The Secretary of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Mr. Yomi Arowosafe, has commended the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (UK FCDO), for their collaboration with Nigerian government to deepen rural connectivity for socio-economic development of the country.

Arowosafe gave the commendation at an Industry-Focused Stakeholders Engagement Session which was organised in Lagos over the weekend by the USPF in in collaboration with the UK FCDO and the ITU. The session built on USPF’s ongoing efforts to facilitate the achievement of wide network connectivity coverage in unserved and underserved communities across Nigeria.

The event was attended by the Hon. Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Faruk Yabo; the Executive Vice Chairman of Nigerian Communications Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida; Chief Executives of telecommunications companies, State ICT commissioners, notable industry players, trade associations, development partners, key speakers, distinguished guests and staff of both NCC and the USPF.

The Minister spoke on the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to provide enabling policy directions and initiatives towards ensuring greater connectivity in Nigeria to transform the socio-economic development of Nigeria while the NCC boss, Maida emphasized the Commission’s resolve to continue to back all USPF projects through effective regulatory measures that help in accelerating deployment of necessary digital infrastructure that support the achievement of the Federal Governments’ priority areas and ministerial blueprint.

Speaking at the event, Arowosafe said the engagement reflected the USPF’s shared vision and commitment to expanding inclusive connectivity and that the presence of all other stakeholders at the event underscored the vital role of collaboration in achieving the goal.

He said the theme of this workshop, “Fostering Connectivity in Unserved and Underserved Communities: Collaborating for Sustainable Growth”, highlighted  government’s dedication to bridging the digital divide, in alignment with NCC’s Strategic Focus Areas, the Ministry’s Strategic Blueprint, and Presidential Priority Areas.

“Together, we have the power to create sustainable and inclusive pathways to ensure no community is left behind. Achieving this requires strong partnerships among government, private sector, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), development partners, and community leaders. By sharing insights and resources, we can design tailored solutions that address both immediate and long-term connectivity challenges,” he said.

The USPF Secretary stated that ahead of the session, the USPF gathered input from stakeholders through questionnaires. He said the responses obtained shaped the panel discussions, focused on key strategies to foster connectivity through collaboration and partnerships, strengthen capacity building and security, and explore innovative funding mechanisms for sustainable connectivity.

He said the engagement, thus, offered a platform for robust dialogue and practical solutions that address our unique challenges and help improve telecommunications access in underserved regions, while encouraging participants to actively participate, share their expertise, and contribute to shaping outcomes that will strengthen the nation’s digital ecosystem and improve the lives of all Nigerians.

“This event marks the beginning of a collective journey toward a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous Nigeria. USPF is proud to lead this effort, and we look forward to what we can accomplish together,” he said.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called upon government agencies, mobile network operators, infrastructure providers, equipment manufacturers, development partners, and telecommunications trade organizations to engage in collaborative efforts aimed at achieving digital inclusion throughout the nation.

Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, who made the call at the Industry-Focused Stakeholders’ Engagement Session of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) held in Lagos, stressed that the evolving telecommunications landscape necessitates innovative and collaborative approaches to ensure long-term viability in delivering connectivity to unserved and underserved populations.

To this extent, Maida noted that the NCC, through the USPF, has been leading initiatives to provide universal access and service, aligning with national and global goals, including bridging the digital divide, promoting universal access, fostering economic growth, and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 (Quality Education) and 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

According to him, the USPF has successfully implemented projects under its access and connectivity programs, including the deployment of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) and Backbone Transmission and Infrastructure.

Dr. Maida said the engagement provided a platform to discuss strategies to enhance the impact of these projects through strengthened partnerships.

“To achieve digital inclusion, government agencies, mobile network operators, infrastructure providers, equipment manufacturers, development partners, and telecom trade groups must work closely together,” he said.

“A multi-stakeholder approach is essential to: Explore innovative financing models to attract investment in rural telecommunications; Leverage emerging technologies and alternative power solutions for sustainable connectivity and Promote policies that incentivize collaborative participation in connectivity projects.”

He called on all stakeholders to strengthen partnerships. “Let us harness our collective expertise, resources, and innovative capabilities to build a resilient and sustainable telecommunication infrastructure that will empower millions of Nigerians. We must remember that collaboration remains the cornerstone of sustainable development in this sector.”

In his remarks, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, stated that over the last 25 years, Nigeria has made significant strides in expanding connectivity and strengthening its digital technology infrastructure. He stressed that in recent years, broadband penetration has been growing significantly, bringing millions more Nigerians online and enabling new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital inclusion.

Despite the expansion, the Minister noted that there are still millions of Nigerians on the fringes of digital transformation who are yet to have access to reliable connectivity.

“Many communities—particularly rural areas—face significant barriers, including inadequate infrastructure and limited digital literacy. These gaps not only hinder personal and business growth but also limit the full potential of Nigeria’s digital economy”, he said.

According to Tijani, USPF has been a critical instrument in the Federal Government’s mission to extend connectivity to these communities, adding; “By supporting infrastructure expansion, fostering local innovation, and driving inclusive policies, the USPF aligns with the His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR)’s goal of enabling meaningful and affordable connectivity for all Nigerians”.

The session aimed to gather key industry stakeholders to provide insights on strategies to enhance USPF interventions and foster partnerships for Nigeria’s digital future.

Photo Credit: TheNiche

By Julius Ifijeh

In an increasingly data-driven world, artificial intelligence (AI) and data science are reshaping the way businesses operate, providing innovative solutions to complex challenges.

According to a McKinsey report, companies that fully integrate AI into their operations see a 20% increase in productivity on average. This transformative potential was the focus of Precious Orekha’s recent keynote address.

Precious Orekha, co-founder of Tech with I-Dra and a data scientist with extensive experience in AI-driven solutions, shared insights into how these technologies are enabling growth and innovation. “AI and data science are not just tools; they are catalysts for innovation,” says Precious.

“When businesses embrace these technologies ethically and strategically, they unlock pathways to unprecedented growth and tackle some of the toughest industry challenges.”

A Journey Rooted in Empowerment
Precious Orekha’s journey into the world of data science began with the Edo State Innovates Hub, a government-sponsored initiative that equipped aspiring professionals with foundational skills in data science.

Reflecting on this experience, he notes, “The program was a turning point for me. It demonstrated how data, when harnessed effectively, can empower individuals and organisations to solve real-world problems.”

This passion led to the founding of Tech with I-Dra, an e-learning platform that provides mentoring, tutoring, and bootcamps designed to equip tech enthusiasts with the skills needed to thrive in a digital economy. “Through Tech with I-Dra, we aim to bridge the skills gap and empower individuals to become problem-solvers in their own right,” Precious explains.

AI as a Business Game-Changer
Discussing his work with Hamoye AI Labs, Precious highlights the potential of AI to address critical issues across various sectors. “At Hamoye, we developed a Named Entity Recognition (NER) system that improved security awareness by 30%, enabling better identification of kidnapping and accident-related events,” he shares. “This project exemplifies how AI can be harnessed to create real societal impact.”

Beyond security, Precious has also made strides in healthcare and transportation. At Kaggle, he spearheaded the development of a facial recognition model capable of detecting expressions with 95% accuracy. “This technology can be applied in diverse contexts, from monitoring driver fatigue in transportation to identifying early signs of mental health conditions in healthcare,” he adds.

The Power of Data Science
Precious also emphasises the importance of data science in transforming raw information into actionable insights. He has developed several predictive models that significantly enhanced lead targeting for marketing teams.

“Transparency in model predictions fosters trust,” he says. “By making data-driven decisions, businesses can optimize their operations and better meet customer needs.”

As the data science coordinator at Hamoye AI Labs, Precious supervised internship programs and spearheaded initiatives that empowered thousands of Africans to leverage data science for social and economic impact. “Empowering others through education and mentorship is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work,” he remarks. “It’s about creating a ripple effect that transforms entire communities.”

A Vision for the Future
Precious is a strong advocate for the ethical integration of AI and data science into business operations. “Ethical considerations are paramount,” he stresses. “Businesses must ensure their AI systems are transparent, fair, and aligned with societal values. This isn’t just about regulatory compliance; it’s about building trust and fostering long-term relationships with customers.”

He also highlights the role of AI in fostering inclusivity. “By prioritising inclusivity in AI development, we can create solutions that benefit everyone, not just a select few,” he says.

Conclusion
Precious Orekha’s work continues to demonstrate the transformative potential of AI and data science in solving business challenges and driving growth. His dedication to ethical practices, empowerment, and innovation sets a benchmark for leveraging technology as a force for good.

“The opportunities are endless for those willing to innovate,” Precious concludes. “By embracing AI and data science, businesses can turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s successes, creating a sustainable and prosperous future for all.”

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved to disconnect Exchange Telecommunications operators in line with the Communications 2023 and it has also set guidelines for the procedure of granted approval to disconnect Telecommunications operators as regards the 2012 act in Nigeria

This was contained in a statement made to Forensic News on Friday, by the Director of Public Affairs, NCC, Reuben Mouka, who stated the NCC hereby notifies the public that approval has been granted for the disconnection of Exchange Telecommunications Limited (Exchange) from MTN Nigeria Communications Limited (MTN) as a result of non-settlement of interconnect charges.

He said that the exchange was notified of the application and was allowed to comment and state its case.

He noted that the Commission, having examined the application and circumstances surrounding the indebtedness, determined that the exchange does not have sufficient reason for non-payment of the interconnect charges

The statement read “The public is, therefore, requested to TAKE NOTICE that the Commission has approved the Disconnection of Exchange to MTN by Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 and the”

“Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators, 2012”

“At the expiration of 5 (Five) days from the date of this notice, MTN will discontinue passing voice and data traffic through Exchange and will, thereafter, utilise alternative channels in interconnecting with other Network Service Providers”

“Please note that this disconnection will subsist until otherwise determined by the Commission” Mouka stated.

Crypto hacking incidents surged in 2024, with total funds stolen increasing by 21.07% year-over-year to $2.2 billion, according to a report by blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis.

The number of individual hacking incidents also rose from 282 in 2023 to 303 in 2024.

While the first half of the year saw a sharp rise in hacking activity, with $1.58 billion stolen by July—84.4% higher than the same period in 2023—the trend slowed significantly in the latter half of the year.

Chainalysis suggests geopolitical factors may have contributed to this shift.

Shift in hacking targets
The report highlighted a shift in the types of platforms targeted by hackers. In prior years, decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms were the primary victims, largely due to their rapid growth and underdeveloped security protocols.

However, in 2024, centralized services were the main targets in the second and third quarters.

The report noted significant breaches recorded in the year which include $305 million stolen from DMM Bitcoin in May 2024, and the $234.9 million stolen from WazirX in July.

Private key compromises emerged as the most exploited vulnerability, accounting for 43.8% of stolen funds.

Hackers used advanced laundering techniques, funneling stolen crypto through decentralized exchanges (DEXs), bridges, and mixing services to obscure transaction trails.

“This shift in focus from DeFi to centralized services highlights the increasing importance of securing mechanisms commonly exploited in hacks, such as private keys. Private key compromises accounted for the largest share of stolen crypto in 2024, at 43.8%.,” Chainalysis stated in the report.

North Korea’s rising role in crypto hacks
According to the report, North Korea-linked hacking groups were responsible for $1.34 billion in crypto theft across 47 incidents in 2024—a 102.88% increase in value stolen compared to $660.50 million across 20 incidents in 2023.

This represents 61% of the total funds stolen and 20% of the year’s incidents.

North Korea’s state-sponsored hacking activities often fund weapons development programs and circumvent international sanctions.

The report noted an increase in both the frequency and scale of these attacks, with more exploits exceeding $100 million in value.

The report also uncovered sophisticated tactics employed by North Korean operatives, including the infiltration of crypto and Web3 companies.

Using false identities, third-party intermediaries, and remote work opportunities, North Korean IT workers compromised networks and operations.

The U.S. Department of Justice recently indicted 14 North Korean nationals accused of working as remote IT contractors at U.S. firms, generating over $88 million by stealing proprietary information and extorting employers.

In October, Nairametrics reported that the United States government had made a move to tackle the menace caused by the dreaded and notorious Lazarus group with strong ties to North Korea.

The US government filed two legal complaints on Oct 4 seeking to seize about $2.67 million worth of crypto assets stolen by the North Korean Lazarus group of hackers.

The filing revealed that the US government seeks to recover about 1.7 million in Tether which was stolen by the hackers in a 2022 exploit of the Deribit platform draining the options exchange platform of $28 million.

The North Korean-linked Lazarus group is a notorious entity of highly advanced hackers who are responsible for most of the biggest exploits in the crypto industry.

The group is dreaded for its sophisticated means of operation and its history of breaching complex platforms with top-notch security systems.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has emphasised the need for inter-sectoral collaborations in order to enhance the much-needed resilience against reported emergent cyberthreats in the country’s cyberspace.

According to ConsumerConnect, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of NCC, stressed this in his Keynote Address at the Opening Session of the Critical National Information infrastructure (CNII) Protection and Resilience Workshop Series for policymakers and sector regulators, held in Abuja, FCT.

The National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCCC) of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) organised the forum.

Maida also advocated a speedy implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s earlier Executive Order (EO) on the CNII protection in the Nigerian digital space.

The EVC/CEO of the Commission stated: “The CNII Order emphasises resilience—a principle that will ensure our networks can recover quickly from incidents, maintaining the trust of the public and businesses that rely on telecom infrastructure daily.”

In regard to the essence of stakeholder collaborations on achieving the set objective of protection the CNII in the ecosystem, Dr. Maida also disclosed under the leadership of the Office of the National Security Adviser, and in collaboration with key stakeholders from the Nigerian Government, information infrastructure operators, and relevant private sector organisations, “a Trusted Information Sharing Network (TISN) will be established to enhance information sharing and risk assessment related to Critical National Information Infrastructure.”

He equally stated: “This network will foster a crucial communication channel for sharing threats and vulnerabilities, promoting decentralised risk assessment and building capacity to implement effective security measures.”

In a related development, the ngCERT@ngCERTofficial, in a statement late October 2024, via its verified social media account after the launch of the Protection and Resilience Workshop Series, in Abuja, affirmed Malam Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser, inaugurated a significant workshop series aimed at enhancing the protection and resilience of Nigeria’s Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII-P).

It said the initiative followed the recently approved Order for the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (DPCO).

“The inaugural event gathered stakeholders from government, regulatory bodies, and private organisations to develop strategies for safeguarding vital information assets,” the statement noted.

NSA harps on ‘critical need’ to secure telecoms, banking, energy and defence

Ribadu, in his opening remarks, stressed the critical need to secure sectors, including such as telecommunications, banking, energy, transportation, and defence, highlighting the potential grave consequences of disruptions.

NgCERT noted: “Key efforts include developing a Critical National Information Infrastructure Protection Plan (CNIIPP) and establishing a Trusted Information Sharing Network (TISN) to promote unified cybersecurity approaches.”

The statement likewise quoted Maida to have stressed “the urgency of implementing the Executive Order on CNII Protection, and called for collective action to safeguard telecommunications infrastructure.”

According to the Centre, other dignitaries in their goodwill messages applauded the NSA’s leadership.

They emphasised the importance of inter-sectoral collaboration to enhance resilience against cyberthreats, such as online fraud and cyber espionage in Nigeria’s cyberspace.