Business

Nigerian Tech Community Withdraws From Nationwide Protest, Applauds NCC Boss*

Published

5 months ago

July 30, 2024

Nigerian Tech Community Withdraws From Nationwide Protest, Applauds NCC Boss

After careful consideration and deliberation in Lagos, some tech entrepreneurs said they have decided to withdraw from the proposed August 1 nationwide protest.

Despite the current economic hardship affecting even the tech ecosystem, the Nigerian Tech Community (NTC) believes that protests do not provide solutions to the nation’s challenges.

A statement signed by its President-General, Benedict Aguele, said the EVC/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Dr Aminu Maida was instrumental in this turnaround.

Moreover, Aguele expressed concerns that protests of this magnitude could be funded by foreign interests, which would have far-reaching implications for the tech world.

“The tech community is aware of the difficulties faced by Nigerians, but we also recognise that protests can disrupt the fragile economic progress made so far,” he said.

“We cannot afford to compromise the stability of our nation, especially when it comes to the tech sector, which is a critical driver of growth. The effects of violence on protests in our sector can be far-reaching and devastating.

“When protests turn violent, they can disrupt the fragile infrastructure that underpins our digital economy. Data centers, network infrastructure, and other critical tech assets can be damaged or destroyed, leading to widespread outages and disruptions to essential services.

“This can have a ripple effect throughout the economy, impacting businesses, governments, and individuals who rely on these services. Furthermore, violence can also deter investors and innovators from engaging with the tech sector, stifling growth and development.

“In addition, violence can also damage Nigeria’s reputation as a hub for tech innovation and investment, making it harder to attract talent, capital, and partnerships.

“By avoiding protests and promoting peaceful dialogue, however, we can protect the tech sector’s potential to drive growth, create jobs, and improve lives.”

The group further said that Maida’s outstanding performance and visionary leadership have earned him the respect and admiration of the tech community.

“We see him as one of our own, and his commitment to transforming Nigeria’s communication sector is unparalleled. His leadership has been instrumental in driving innovation, improving infrastructure, and promoting digital inclusion.

“We commend his efforts and pledge our support for his continued success. Dr. Maida’s achievements are a testament to his dedication and expertise.

“He has brought a new level of energy and enthusiasm to the NCC, and his impact is being felt across the tech ecosystem. We are grateful for his leadership and look forward to his continued guidance.”

The group, therefore, expressed support for Dr. Maida and the Federal Government in their efforts to address the challenges facing the nation.

“We believe that collaboration and dialogue are essential in finding solutions to our problems,” Aguele noted.

“In conclusion, we urge Nigerians not to protest but to work together towards a brighter future”

Business

Dangote Hails Tinubu on Impact of Crude for Naira Swap Deal

Published

14 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Dangote Hails Tinubu on Impact of Crude for Naira Swap Deal

…As Dangote Refinery partners MRS to sell PMS at N935 per litre nationwide at its retail outlets

Sahara Weekly Unveils That The Foremost entrepreneur and President of the Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the positive impact of the naira for crude swap deal on the Nigerian economy, which has led to reduction in prices of petroleum products in the country.

To provide succour to Nigerians, Dangote recently reduced the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from N970 to N899.50 at its Refinery loading gantry and provided generous credit terms to marketers.

“To ensure that this price reduction gets to the end consumer, we have signed a partnership with MRS to sell petrol from its retail outlets nationwide at N935 per litre” he added. This price has already commenced in Lagos, and it will be offered nationwide from Monday.

In his statement, he called on other oil marketers such as the NNPC Retail and all other marketers, “to work with us to ensure that Nigerians enjoy high-quality petrol at discounted prices.”

According to him, “The Dangote Refinery is for the benefit of Nigeria and Nigerians. We will therefore continue to work with various value chain players to deliver high quality petrol at cheaper prices. Our aim is for all Nigerians to have ready access to high quality petroleum products that are good for their vehicles, good for their health, and good for their pockets.

Recall that in September, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) under the leadership of Mr. President approved the sale of crude to local refineries in Naira and corresponding purchase of petroleum products in Naira. The move, which commenced on October 1, led to reduced pressure on the dollar and ensured the stability of the local currency.

Dangote thanked Nigerians for their unwavering support and the government for creating an enabling environment for the domestic refining industry.

Business

Port Harcourt Refinery Stays Active: NNPC Denounces Sabotage Rumors

Published

21 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Port Harcourt Refinery Stays Active: NNPC Denounces Sabotage Rumors

NNPC Debunks Shutdown Rumors, Confirms Port Harcourt Refinery Fully Operational

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has dismissed reports circulating in certain media outlets claiming that the Old Port Harcourt Refinery, which was re-streamed two months ago, has been shut down.

In a statement released by Olufemi O. Soneye, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd, the company clarified that the refinery is fully operational. The statement noted that the facility’s operational status was recently verified by former Group Managing Directors of NNPC during a site inspection.

“Preparation for the day’s loading operation is currently ongoing,” the statement confirmed, emphasizing that allegations of the refinery’s shutdown are baseless and intended to create panic or artificial scarcity in the fuel market.

NNPC Ltd urged members of the public to disregard such misleading reports, labeling them as the work of those seeking to exploit Nigerians.

The Old Port Harcourt Refinery has been in operation since its re-streaming, and the company remains committed to ensuring stability in the supply of petroleum products across the country.

Business

Nigerian Banks Donate Multimillion Naira Relief Materials to Jigawa Flood Victims

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Nigerian Banks Donate Multimillion Naira Relief Materials to Jigawa Flood Victims

In a show of solidarity, the Committee of Banks in Nigeria has extended a helping hand to victims of the September 2024 floods in Jigawa State. On Thursday, a high-profile delegation led by Dr. Oliver Alawuba, Chairman of the Committee and Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), visited Dutse, the state capital, to present relief materials to the state government.

The donated items, worth several million Naira, included essential food supplies such as rice and cooking oil, along with mattresses and beverages. Dr. Alawuba highlighted that the gesture aimed to alleviate the hardship faced by flood victims and support critical institutions, especially public hospitals, in their efforts to assist those affected.

“We stand in solidarity with the people and government of Jigawa State during this difficult time. This donation is our way of expressing empathy and supporting those who have lost loved ones, properties, and livelihoods,” Dr. Alawuba stated.

The delegation included notable banking leaders such as Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna of Access Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji of Zenith Bank Plc, and Dr. (Mrs.) Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe of Fidelity Bank Plc, among others. Their collective presence underscored the banking sector’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and national development.

Governor Malam Umar A. Namadi expressed profound gratitude for the donation, describing the visit as a rare and commendable act of compassion. He assured the delegation that the relief materials would be judiciously distributed to the intended beneficiaries, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in rebuilding lives and communities.

The Committee of Banks also reiterated their commitment to supporting Nigerians during emergencies, drawing attention to previous interventions, including relief efforts during the 2011 and 2013 floods, the COVID-19 pandemic, and security initiatives like the Lagos State Security Trust Fund.

This humanitarian gesture reflects the collective resolve of Nigeria’s financial institutions to foster social and economic growth, making a meaningful impact in times of need.