Global technology company IBM will reportedly discontinue its direct operations in Nigeria, Ghana, and several other African countries.
The company has decided to transfer its business functions in the region to MIBB, a subsidiary of Midis Group, which will take over the sale and support of IBM’s products and services across 36 African nations starting 1 April 2025.
With over five decades of presence in Nigeria, IBM was a big partner in sectors such as banking, telecommunications, oil and gas, and government. The company provided high-end computing and storage solutions to financial institutions like Zenith Bank.
However, in recent years, the competitive space has shifted, with firms such as Dell and Huawei expanding their reach in Nigeria’s banking sector. This growing competition, coupled with economic challenges, has contributed to IBM’s decision to restructure its African operations.
IBM’s decision to withdraw from direct operations in West Africa follows a trend among multinational corporations reconsidering their presence in Nigeria due to the country’s economic difficulties.
The devaluation of the naira, growing inflation, and shrinking consumer purchasing power have made it more difficult for global firms to sustain operations. In 2023, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) reported that 767 manufacturing companies shut down, while hundreds more struggled due to economic instability.
Several multinational companies, including Kimberly-Clark, Pick n Pay, and Diageo, have exited Nigeria in 2024, pointing to unfavourable economic conditions.
For IBM, this exit aligns with its global financial challenges. The company reported an 8% decline in infrastructure sales and a 2% drop in consulting revenue in 2024, even though software sales grew by 10%, contributing to an overall 1% revenue increase. IBM’s global strategy now focuses on restructuring operations for more sustainable growth.
The transition of IBM’s African operations to MIBB leaves us wondering how businesses and government institutions that have relied on IBM’s solutions will be affected.
While MIBB will continue to market and sell IBM products, the shift could lead to challenges in terms of service continuity and support. The long-term impact is uncertain, and some experts are concerned about whether MIBB will maintain the same level of service and expertise that IBM provided.
Nonetheless, IBM projects a 5% revenue growth in 2025, backed by a projected free cash flow of $13.5 billion. But its departure from direct operations in Nigeria and other African countries points to a change in priorities as it scales through both regional and global challenges.
For now, businesses and institutions that have depended on IBM must prepare for a new operational model under MIBB, adjusting to the changing technological space in Africa.
Mrs Kemi Nanna Nandap, the comptroller general, Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has set February 7 for the launch of contactless passport application solution in Europe, with UK serving as the coordinating centre.
The Comptroller General announced this on Tuesday when she paid a courtesy call on Abike Dabiri-Erewa chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission at NiDCOM headquarters in Abuja.
“This initiative set for launch on 7th of February 2025 will enable Nigerians in the Diaspora to apply for and renew their passports online from the comfort of their homes,” she stated.
Nandap reiterated that the innovative solution is designed to simplify the passport application process for Diaspora, save time, and reduce costs associated with travelling to apply for passport.
She, however, said that the initiative is not for fresh applicants or minors but for those renewing their passports.
She said Nigerians living abroad can start the process of renewing their passports a year to its expiration.
Nandap commended NIDCOM for being a dependable partner and ally in advocacy in giving awareness to its programmes and policies, especially as it affects Nigerians living abroad.
The Comptroller General said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given them the marching order to make life easier for Nigerians in the diaspora, saying Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the minister of Interior, has in the meantime approved a passport processing facility for New York, to address the backlog and bring experience there.
She added that passport front offices will soon be opened in other parts of the US and other countries.
Responding to the cheering news, the chairman/CEO of NiDCOM commended the laudable initiative, which aligns with the Commission’s mandate to support and facilitate diaspora engagement.
“The launch of the contactless passport application solution in Europe is a significant step towards efficient, secure, and convenient travel document management for Nigerians in the diaspora. NiDCOM will continue to support, monitor and collaborate with the NIS to ensure the success of this initiative” she added.
She commended the Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and the Comptroller General for the innovations introduced, noting that the contactless application has since taken off in Canada with commendations from Nigerians in Canada.
Trucks Transit Parks Ltd (TTP), an innovative tech mobility Company and pioneer of the Ètò Electronic call-up system has announced the Successful integration of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) Nigeria Export Proceeds (NXP) system with its innovative Ètò electronic call-up platform.
This strategic integration, which became effective on January 3, 2025, represents a significant collaboration between TTP, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other key stakeholders, aimed at modernizing & streamlining Nigeria’s export operations, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and overall operational excellence at the nation’s ports.
Under the new regulation, exporters are now mandated to secure an approved NXP application number before booking export consignments.
This requirement, endorsed by the NPA and aligned with government directives, ensures that only consignments with verified, final-stage approval proceed to export processing.
This new procedure for export bookings promises to enhance process efficiency by minimizing processing delays at Export Processing Terminals, ensuring that export containers are only released to the port upon confirmation of their status at the final approval stage.
It will also reduce road congestion as export vehicles would now complete their reloading processes before proceeding to the port. In addition, it will bolster the Nigerian economy as a streamlined export process will enhance international competitiveness, attract more business, and generate higher revenue for the nation.
TTP’s robust technical capabilities have been instrumental in ensuring the flawless integration of the NXP system with the ÈTÒ platform.
By enabling real-time verification of NXP application numbers via the NPA-CBN-NXP portal, TTP’s solution ensures that only export consignments meeting the stringent regulatory requirements proceed to the port, significantly enhancing process integrity and security.
Jama Onwubuariri, managing director and Co-founder of TTP commented:
“Our team’s relentless pursuit of technological excellence has culminated in a solution that not only streamlines the export process but also reinforces the collective efforts of industry regulators and stakeholders, notably the NPA. We are honoured to collaborate closely with the NPA, the CBN and other partners in ensuring that this integration sets a new benchmark for operational excellence in Nigeria’s export sector. This achievement is a testament to what can be accomplished when cutting-edge technology meets proactive regulatory oversight.“
The collaborative efforts between Truck Transit Parks Ltd, the Nigerian Ports Authority, the Central Bank of Nigeria and other key players underscore a shared commitment to enhancing the export value chain in Nigeria.
The NPA’s proactive role in shaping and enforcing these new guidelines, coupled with TTP’s innovative technological contributions, promises to establish a more secure, efficient, and competitive environment for export operations and by extension, port operations.
This partnership highlights a forward-thinking approach to tackling logistical challenges and promoting sustainable economic growth.
AXA Mansard Insurance Plc has urged vehicle owners and motorists across Nigeria to ensure they obtain only genuine Third-Party Motor Insurance policies as the nationwide enforcement of the policy by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) takes effect.
The NPF recently announced that effective February 1, 2025, it will commence a nationwide enforcement of the Third-Party Motor Insurance Policy.
The initiative, which aligns with the provisions of Section 68 of the Insurance Act 2003 has been welcomed by NAICOM and the NIA respectively, noting that it is a significant step towards strengthening compliance, ensuring road safety, and protecting motorists and third parties on Nigerian roads.
Speaking on the commencement of the enforcement, Chief Marketing Officer, AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, Adebola Surakat, said with defaulters facing fines of up to ₦250,000, the tendency of unscrupulous elements selling fake motor insurance policies to unsuspecting members of the public may be on the rise.
She advises the insuring public to secure all their insurance policies, including motor insurance from only registered companies and their accredited agents.
“As a brand committed to protecting our customers and the insuring public, we strongly advise motorists to be cautious and obtain their insurance policies only from licensed and trusted insurers.
The rise in enforcement may lead to a surge in counterfeit policies, leaving motorists exposed to financial risks.
As a leader in the industry, we recognise that raising the awareness at this time is the right thing to do because if we allow the public to run into the wrong hands, it will be a setback for the tremendous work that we have been doing to build trust in insurance.
When people buy the counterfeit insurance policy, they will not be able to present it to the police nor will they be able to claim with it if any risks manifest. The backlash will be on the insurance sector, not the fraudulent agents. So, we are taking it as a responsibility to create awareness”.
Surakat explained that people can visit either the NAICOM or NIA website for a list of registered insurance companies in Nigeria.
“We have even made it simpler at AXA Mansard, any type of motor insurance ranging from Third Party Motor Insurance to Comprehensive Motor Insurance can be purchased straight from our website. You can get your motor insurance certificate in less than five minutes on either our website, mobile app or any of our welcome centres nationwide”, she said.
“We have continuously demonstrated reliability through prompt claims payment and seamless customer experience. So, we assure the public of an excellent customer experience throughout the life cycle of the policy.”
AXA Mansard reassures its customers that it remains steadfast in its commitment to providing affordable, accessible, and genuine motor insurance solutions to protect Nigerian motorists from unnecessary financial liabilities.
“We understand the challenges that come with compliance, so we urge all vehicle owners to prioritize authenticity when purchasing their Third-Party Motor Insurance and avoid the risks associated with fake policies,” Surakat added.
Egyptian fintech company Khazna has raised $16 million in pre-Series B funding, bringing its total investment to over $63 million.
The company, which provides financial services to low- and middle-income workers, plans to use the funds to apply for a digital banking licence in Egypt and expand into Saudi Arabia.
Founded in 2019, Khazna aims to bridge the financial gap for Egyptians who lack access to traditional banking. The company offers services such as salary advances, digital payments, and micro-loans, allowing workers to manage their finances with greater flexibility.
Currently, over 500,000 people use Khazna’s products, with 100,000 receiving their salaries directly through the platform. The company’s goal is to integrate financial services such as loans and insurance into payroll systems, making financial management more accessible for workers.
Khazna has focused on credit offerings for payroll and pension recipients, alongside unsecured loans for gig workers. This approach has helped the company reach profitability, according to CEO Omar Saleh.
“What we did over the last two and a half years was to focus on our core product, which is credit offering to payroll and pension recipients and also unsecured loans to gig workers. This is the most profitable and core product in our journey, and getting it right was very important because it has helped us to hit profitability,” Saleh said.
In addition to loans, Khazna provides bill payment services, buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) options, medical insurance, and rent-to-own products. However, one of the company’s biggest challenges is its inability to accept customer deposits, which makes lending operations costly.
To address this, Khazna is working to secure a deposit-taking licence from Egypt’s Central Bank, which introduced a regulatory framework for digital banks in July 2024.
Beyond Egypt, Khazna is setting its sights on Saudi Arabia, where demand for consumer finance solutions is rising. Unlike BNPL companies such as Tabby and Tamara, which focus on short-term credit, Khazna aims to provide medium-term credit solutions like earned wage access (EWA), payroll-backed lending, and pension-based credit.
A key factor driving this expansion is the strong economic ties between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, with nearly three million Egyptians living and working in Saudi Arabia. This presents an opportunity for Khazna to offer cross-border financial services, particularly in credit and foreign exchange (FX) solutions.
Added to these, Saudi Arabia’s capital markets have influenced Khazna’s decision. The Tadawul stock exchange, one of the most liquid in the region, has hosted multiple IPOs in recent years.
Khazna plans to generate 40–50% of its revenue from Saudi Arabia within the next four years, positioning itself for a public listing on Tadawul. Saleh noted that this would provide early-stage investors with a clear path to exit, making an IPO a viable long-term strategy.
Khazna’s latest funding round was shaped by Egypt’s recent economic instability, including currency devaluation and investor caution. Between 2022 and 2023, fundraising for Egyptian startups became difficult, leading to a slowdown in venture capital deals.
However, 2024 brought a turnaround, with over $50 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) flowing into the country following economic reforms.
This renewed investor assurance has benefited Khazna, which secured funding from both global and regional investors, including Quona, Speedinvest, SANAD Fund for MSME, anb Seed Fund, Aljazira Capital, Tibas Ventures, Khwarizmi Ventures, Nclude, and ICU Ventures.
Qeen.ai, a Dubai-based artificial intelligence startup, has raised $10 million in a seed funding round to expand its AI-driven e-commerce solutions.
The investment, led by Prosus Ventures, is one of the largest early-stage AI investments in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
The company, founded in 2023 by ex-Google and DeepMind engineers Morteza Ibrahimi, Ahmad Khwileh, and Dina Alsamhan, is developing AI-powered agents that help online retailers automate content creation, marketing, and customer engagement.
According to Qeen.ai, its AI solutions have already reached over 15 million users and generated one million product descriptions, contributing to a 30% increase in sales for merchants using its platform.
The e-commerce sector in MENA is projected to reach $50 billion by 2025, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE leading the expansion. While global e-commerce currently accounts for 15% to 20% of retail sales, Qeen.ai believes this figure could grow if merchants optimise their operations beyond paid advertising.
“We worked with a client to optimise their content and SEO. After using our AI plugins, their search volume increased by 40%, and their Google ranking improved from 22 to 18—all with zero manual effort. The entire process was fully autonomous,” said Ibrahimi.
Qeen.ai’s AI technology personalises content dynamically based on user behaviour and device type. For example, mobile users may receive concise bullet-point summaries, while desktop users get detailed descriptions.
AI-powered marketing tools have gained global traction, with companies in the US and Europe offering similar solutions. However, Qeen.ai is targeting an underserved market by prioritising MENA before expanding internationally.
“One of the most exciting things we’ve seen is the quality of AI talent here,” said Ibrahimi. “We’ve attracted great talent both locally and internationally—people have left the Bay Area, Europe, and the UK to come here and build with us.”
The company operates on a subscription-based model, charging merchants per active SKU for content automation and on a per-interaction basis for AI-driven marketing services. Notable clients include Dubai Store, 6th Street, and Jumia.
With a team of over 25 employees across the UAE and Jordan, Qeen.ai plans to use its latest funding to expand its AI capabilities, scale its workforce, and attract more e-commerce businesses. Investors in this round include Wamda Capital, 10X Founders Fund, and Dara Holdings.
Having raised a total of $12 million within a year, Qeen.ai is boosting the AI-driven growth of online retail in the region.
Sophos, a global leader and innovator of advanced security solutions for defeating cyberattacks, has disclosed the completion of the acquisition of Secureworks, aiming to redefined services and technology solutions for defeating cyberattacks.
The completion of Sophos’ acquisition of Secureworks is at an all-cash transaction valuation of Secureworks at approximately $859 million.
With the completion of the acquisition, Secureworks’ common stock has ceased trading on Nasdaq. Sophos is backed by Thoma Bravo, a leading software investment firm.
With this acquisition, Sophos is now the leading pure-play cybersecurity provider of Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services, supporting more than 28,000 organizations of all sizes worldwide.
The combination will enable Sophos to deliver an unparalleled security operations platform, featuring hundreds of built-in integrations for adaptive protection, detection and response for mitigating cyberattacks.
The open and scalable platform helps organizations, especially those with diverse IT estates, safeguard current and future technology investments, providing greater operational efficiencies and return on cybersecurity spend.
Sophos X-Ops is also expanding its threat intelligence and security services capabilities with the addition of the Secureworks Counter Threat Unit and security operations and advisory teams.
As a channel-first cybersecurity provider, Sophos remains unwavering in its commitment to deliver cutting-edge security services and technologies that empower our global community of resellers, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and Managed Security Services Providers (MSSPs).
This includes expanding their reach, enhancing operational scalability and providing stronger defenses to the countless organizations that need the ability to effectively defend against today’s constant and complex cyberattacks.
Joe Levy, CEO, Sophos
“The market is embracing MDR as a clear means to deliver positive cybersecurity outcomes, and this has meant rapid growth in the category,” said Joe Levy, CEO, Sophos. “Sophos is differentiated by our very mature competencies in ransomware detection, malware analysis and threat actor tradecraft. These defenses are further augmented by Sophos’ native artificial intelligence (AI), first innovated by our globally peer recognized AI team nearly a decade ago, and embedded in our MDR, endpoint, network, email, and cloud security to more effectively neutralize and stop threats. With the integration of Secureworks, our expanded services and product portfolio will provide even stronger end-to-end security solutions that will include identity threat detection and response (ITDR), next-gen SIEM and managed risk, all in a single open platform.”
“We will also be able to further advance our AI, threat intelligence and attack research through more diverse and deeper global telemetry that is analyst-tuned for the real-world. At every level, we are very excited about this next accelerated chapter for Sophos.”
Available Now
In the near term, Sophos and Secureworks are operating business as usual, working with our respective channel partners, MSPs and MSSPs worldwide to distribute our existing security services and technology.
Both companies’ sales and customer experience groups will operate to support existing customers, assist with renewals and develop current and new business opportunities.
Sophos protects more than 600,000 customers worldwide with its portfolio of MDR, endpoint, network, email, and cloud security solutions that integrate and adapt to provide real-time defense through the Sophos Central platform.
Transaction Details
Under the terms of the agreement, Sophos acquired Secureworks in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately .
Secureworks shareholders, including Dell Technologies (NYSE:DELL), will receive $8.50 per share in cash. This represents a 28% premium to the unaffected 90-day volume-weighted average price (VWAP).
Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal counsel to Sophos, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC., Barclays, BofA Securities, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., and UBS Investment Bank acted as financial advisors and provided debt financing for the transaction.
Piper Sandler & Company and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC acted as financial advisors to Secureworks, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP acted as legal counsel.
The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) suspended its decision during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, marked a shift in the Council’s stance after extensive deliberations and a forensic review of the economic realities affecting telecom service providers.
Last week, the NCSCN convened an emergency meeting after news emerged that the Federal Government had approved a 50 per cent tariff hike for telecom operators.
The Council, alongside its 620 affiliate organisations, initially condemned the decision and planned a mass protest to occupy the headquarters of the NCC and the National Assembly until the government reversed the tariff adjustment.
Following its established protocols, the NCSCN formally notified the NCC of its intentions.
However, in what the Council described as an unprecedented display of responsiveness, the NCC reached out within 24 hours to initiate discussions.
In response, the NCSCN assembled an 11-man delegation for a four-hour meeting with NCC officials.
According to Blessing Akinlosotu, NCSCN executive director, the Council’s delegation initially approached the meeting prepared for a showdown, expecting to challenge the NCC on the tariff decision.
However, detailed presentations, economic assessments and operational data provided during the meeting led to a re-evaluation of the situation.
To ensure an objective assessment, the Council formed a five-man technical committee to conduct a forensic analysis of telecom service providers’ operational costs, financial statements and annual profit margins.
Akinlosotu said,
“After the tensed and robust engagement with the Management of NCC, we further set up a 5-man Technical Committee to carefully study documents presented to us, and asked the Committee to do a clinical and forensic examination of available records of operational costs and annual profits margins of some major Telecom Service Providers in Nigeria, with critical assessments of Financial Statements.
“Our findings were very interesting and call for a serious review of the position and planned line of action.”
The committee’s findings revealed that telecom operators had not increased tariffs since 2013 despite inflation and harsh economic conditions.
The cost of electricity and diesel has risen sharply, significantly impacting network operations.
Security challenges, particularly the vandalism of telecom infrastructure, have placed additional financial strain on service providers.
The devaluation of the naira and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates have also contributed to rising costs, making it more expensive to import telecom equipment.
While the approved 50 per cent tariff hike represents an upper limit, the Council noted that competition among service providers could prevent operators from implementing the maximum increase.
The NCC has mandated service quality improvements, requiring telecom providers to upgrade infrastructure to enhance network efficiency and ensure better service delivery.
The Council further established that, even with the adjustment, Nigeria’s telecom tariffs remain among the lowest globally, with the increase amounting to less than 10 kobo per second.
Following a review of these findings, the NCSCN acknowledged the economic pressures affecting both consumers and service providers.
Akinlosotu stated that while Nigerians are battling severe economic hardship, telecom companies are also struggling to maintain operations due to increasing costs.
He described the NCC’s position as a delicate balancing act between the interests of consumers and service providers, both of whom are dealing with the impact of inflation and an unstable business environment.
The NCSCN called on the NCC to ensure that telecom operators comply fully with the conditions tied to the tariff hike, particularly those requiring service quality improvements.
It also urged the regulator to strengthen monitoring mechanisms to prevent operators from unfairly imposing the maximum 50 per cent increase on consumers.
Telecom providers were advised to prioritise customer interests by keeping tariffs as low as possible despite the approved adjustment.
The Council also appealed to the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the energy sector, citing the high cost of electricity and fuel as major factors driving up telecom costs.
It further called on the government to implement policies aimed at strengthening the naira and stabilising foreign exchange rates to reduce the cost of doing business.
After reviewing the evidence, the NCSCN announced the cancellation of its planned protest, urging its members to shield their “swords for now, as we call off the planned Protest earlier scheduled to commence today Monday, January 3, 2025.
“Let us accept the painful and bitter realities being faced in the Operational Cost by Service Providers and allow for this understandable Tariff Adjustment.”
Akinlosotu called on the Nigerian Labour Congress to reconsider its position and recognise the operational challenges faced by telecom providers, warning that continued resistance to the tariff adjustment could push the sector towards collapse.
He further urged Nigerians to remain patient, acknowledging that the current administration inherited a struggling economy but expressing hope that conditions would gradually improve with the right policies.
“NCSCN equally appeals to our Big Brother, the Nigerian Labour Congress to review its position on this matter and find reasons to allow for this unavoidable Tariff Adjustment, to prevent systemic collapse of Telecom Services in Nigeria, seeing that most businesses are already folding up and leaving the Country owing to high Production Costs.
“We appeal to Nigerians to keep faith with the NCC Leadership as we in the NCSCN have seen relatively a very reasonable level of Patriotism and commitment to the well-being of the People, which is the reason the Tariff has been kept at a relatively low level, till date,” Akinlosotu said.
Nine banks have commenced clearing of debts to telecommunication network operators for the Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) services.
Recall, the Nigerian Communications Commission had granted permission to telecommunications companies to disconnect the USSD codes assigned to nine financial institutions due to unpaid debts in the sum over N160 billion.
According to the directive in a public notice signed by Reuben Muoka, NCC’s director of Public Affairs, the affected banks were expected to settle their outstanding obligations by January 27, 2025, or risk losing access to their USSD codes.
The banks, which were at risk of disconnection due to a N160bn debt, have made substantial progress in clearing their liabilities, ensuring continued access to the USSD platform—vital for customers without internet access.
These codes, essential for enabling mobile banking services, could be reassigned to other applicants if the debts remain unresolved.
Engineer Gbenga Adebayo, chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria, confirmed at a Telecoms CEO forum in Lagos that the matter had been de-escalated.
In his words: “The matter has been de-escalated. Money has been paid, and we are making progress thanks to the regulators,” he said.
The nine banks that would have been affected by the NCC’s disconnection notice include Fidelity Bank Plc, First City Monument Bank, Jaiz Bank Plc, Polaris Bank Limited, Sterling Bank Limited, United Bank for Africa Plc, Unity Bank Plc, Wema Bank Plc, and Zenith Bank Plc.
The dispute began in 2019 when banks started incurring charges for using USSD services provided by telecom companies. However, many banks struggled to settle the charges, causing the debt to accumulate.
Nigeria drops by twelve places from last year, which reflects a lack of commitment to developing the digital landscape and positioning the country as a leader in leveraging technological advancements to improve citizens’ quality of life.
“In an election year like 2024, where the digital realm shaped political discourse and societal values, prioritizing digital quality of life proved to be more important than ever.
It helps to ensure informed citizens, protects democratic processes, and fosters innovation. Our annual project helps to better understand where each county stands in terms of digital divide, highlighting where a nation’s digital quality of life excels and where further focus is required,” says Tomas Stamulis, chief security officer at Surfshark.
Out of the Index’s five pillars, Nigeria performed best in e-security, claiming 76th place, but faced challenges in e-infrastructure, ranking 108th.
The nation ranks 94th in e-government, 103rd in internet quality, and 106th in internet affordability. In the overall Index, Nigeria lags behind South Africa (66th) and Kenya (89th).
Collectively, African countries lag behind in their digital quality of life, Nigeria taking 14th place in the region.
Nigeria ranks lower in e-government than 77% of the countries analyzed, with 93 countries above.
E-government determines how advanced and digitized a country’s government services are. A well-developed e-government helps minimize bureaucracy, reduce corruption, and increase transparency within the public sector.
This pillar also shows the level of Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness a country demonstrates. Countries with the highest readiness to adopt AI technology are also ready to counter national cyberthreats. Nigeria ranks 94th in the world in e-government — six places lower than last year.
Nigeria is 76th in the world in e-security — three places lower than last year.
The e-security pillar measures how well a country is prepared to counter cybercrime and how advanced a country’s data protection laws are.
In this pillar, Nigeria lags behind South Africa (75th) and Kenya (69th). Nigeria is unprepared to fight against cybercrime, the country has some data protection laws.
Nigeria’s internet quality is 25% lower than the global average
Nigeria’s fixed internet averages 39Mbps. To put that into perspective, the world’s fastest fixed internet — Singapore’s — is 347Mbps. Meanwhile, the slowest fixed internet in the world — Tunisia’s — is 14Mbps.
Nigeria’s mobile internet averages 78Mbps. The fastest mobile internet — the UAE’s — is 430Mbps, while the world’s slowest mobile internet — Yemen’s — is 12Mbps.
Compared to South Africa, Nigeria’s mobile internet is 15% slower, while fixed broadband is 51% slower. Since last year, mobile internet speed in Nigeria has improved by 65%, while fixed broadband speed has grown by 55%.
The internet is unaffordable in Nigeria compared to other countries.
Nigerians have to work 10 hours 43 minutes a month to afford fixed broadband internet. It is 46 times more than in Bulgaria, which has the world’s most affordable fixed internet (Bulgarians have to work 14 minutes a month to afford it).
Nigerians have to work 2 hours 44 minutes 14 seconds a month to afford mobile internet. This is 18 times more than in Angola, which has the world’s most affordable mobile internet (Angolans have to work 9 minutes a month to afford it).
Nigeria is 108th in e-infrastructure.
Advanced e-infrastructure makes it easy for people to use the internet for various daily activities, such as working, studying, shopping, etc.
This pillar evaluates how high internet penetration is in a given country, as well as its network readiness (readiness to take advantage of Information and Communication Technologies). Nigeria’s internet penetration is low (35% — 109th in the world), and the country ranks 102nd in network readiness.
On a global scale, investing in e-government and e-infrastructure improves digital wellbeing the most
Among the five pillars, e-government has the strongest correlation with the DQL index (0.92), followed by e-infrastructure (0.91).
Internet affordability shows the weakest correlation at 0.65.
Summary are the key findings about Nigeria:
Nigeria lags behind South Africa (66th) and Kenya (89th) in digital quality of life.
Nigeria’s internet quality is 25% lower than the global average and ranks 103rd in the world.
Nigeria’s fixed internet speed (39Mbps) has improved by 55% since last year, while mobile speed (78Mbps) has improved by 65%.
The internet is unaffordable in Nigeria compared to other countries. Nigerians have to work 10 hours 43 minutes a month to afford fixed broadband internet — 46 times more than in Bulgaria, which has the world’s most affordable fixed internet.
Nigeria performed worst in the e-infrastructure pillar, which would need to improve by 58% to match the best-ranking country (United States).
Overall, African countries lag behind in their digital quality of life, Nigeria taking 14th place in the region.
In another first for the DRC, Open Access Data Centres (OADC) Texaf – Kinshasa has attained three prestigious certifications: ISO 27001, ISO 22301 and PCI DSS.
This remarkable pioneering achievement underscores OADC Texaf – Kinshasa’s steadfast commitment to delivering secure, resilient and world-class digital infrastructure services in the DRC that meet stringent global standards.
ISO 27001, the globally recognised standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), validates that OADC Texaf – Kinshasa has implemented robust measures for its information security management, demonstrating its ability to reassure clients of its information security integrity.
This certification also underpins the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) Certification.
PCI-DSS compliance establishes the data centre as a trusted partner for the financial services and payments industry.
This globally recognised certification demonstrates adherence to stringent payments industry security protocols and controls, playing a key role in transforming the DRC’s financial and payments ecosystem.
It also provides critical reassurance in meeting the growing demands for financial inclusion among the DRC population.
Finally, ISO 22301 certification; the Business Continuity Management System (BCMS) ensures uninterrupted service delivery and rapid recovery from unforeseen disruptions, providing clients with critical assurances of operational excellence and resilience – a cornerstone of trust and reliability for business demanding the utmost in operational integrity.
Mohammed Bouhelal, managing director of OADC Texaf – Kinshasa
Mr. Mohammed Bouhelal, managing director of OADC Texaf – Kinshasa, remarked:
“Achieving ISO 27001, ISO 22301 and PCI DSS certifications is a testament to our unwavering dedication to operational excellence and client-centric service delivery. These milestones position OADC as a leader in secure and resilient digital infrastructure, supporting the growth of the DRC’s digital economy and fostering trust among local and international businesses.”
These certifications hold immense significance for OADC Texaf – Kinshasa’s diverse clientele, including Internet Service Providers (ISPs), telecommunications carriers, enterprise clients, banks and other financial services companies.
By meeting and exceeding global standards, OADC Texaf – Kinshasa strengthens the foundation for secure and reliable digital services, enabling innovation and economic growth across the region.
This achievement also bolsters the DRC’s position as an emerging hub for digital infrastructure in Africa, attracting foreign investment and fostering confidence in the country’s digital transformation journey.
As the demand for secure, resilient and compliant data centre services grows, OADC Texaf – Kinshasa remains at the forefront, setting benchmarks for excellence and shaping the future of the digital economy in the DRC and central Africa.
Galaxy Backbone (GBB), Nigeria’s Digital Transformation company and IT services provider, has successfully attained PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) recertification, solidifying its commitment to maintaining the highest level of security and operational excellence in its service delivery.
Under the visionary leadership of Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju, Galaxy Backbone has continued to raise the bar in the provision of world-class digital solutions for both government and corporate sectors.
This recertification underscores GBB’s dedication to safeguarding sensitive financial data, mitigating cyber threats, and supporting the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
The PCI DSS certification is a globally recognized benchmark for securing financial transactions, ensuring that organizations handling payment card information maintain the highest level of security.
“As an organization at the forefront of digital transformation and secure connectivity, achieving PCI DSS recertification reflects our unwavering commitment to data security, compliance, and international best practices,” said Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju, managing director/CEO of Galaxy Backbone. “Our financial services partners and customers can continue to trust GBB to provide secure, resilient, and high-performance infrastructure that meets global regulatory requirements.”
By maintaining PCI DSS compliance, GBB continues to support financial institutions, government agencies, and businesses in ensuring secure digital transactions.
This milestone reinforces the company’s role as a trusted technology partner in Nigeria’s evolving digital and financial landscape.
The PCI DSS recertification also compliments our extensive portfolio of internationally recognized certifications, including ISO 20000, for Service Management Systems (SMS), ISO 27001 for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), ISO 9001 for Quality Management Systems (QMS), and ISO 22301 for Business Continuity Management Systems (BCMS).
These certifications reaffirm the organisation’s commitment to providing services that are secure, efficient, and in line with global best practices.
Galaxy Backbone recognises that providing excellent service goes beyond just compliance. It is about creating lasting value for corporations and government entities alike, delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive digital transformation, improve operational efficiency, and foster secure, reliable communication and data exchange.
Galaxy Backbone receives PCI DSS Recertification
With these certifications, Galaxy Backbone continues to benchmark itself against international standards, ensuring that we consistently meet and exceed the expectations of our customers.
GBB’s dedication to innovation, excellence, and security is at the core of everything we do, empowering organizations to thrive in a digital-first world.
Resilience17, an African venture studio and fund, originally founded as Berrywood in 2021 by Flutterwave CEO Olugbenga “GB” Agboola, is working to bridge a huge gap for African founders with a new accelerator programme, Go Time AI.
The accelerator, which was unveiled in 2024, aims to support startups building AI-driven products across Africa. With a solid focus on promoting innovation, Resilience17 is offering up to $200,000 in funding and mentorship to selected startups, taking an 8% equity stake in return.
Resilience17 rebranded to strengthen its focus on African technology entrepreneurship. Over the past few years, the fund has grown its portfolio with companies like Klasha, Pivo, and Bamboo.
Now, with the Go Time AI initiative, it is targeting sectors such as artificial intelligence. The accelerator seeks to provide the financial support, infrastructure, and expert guidance that African AI startups need to scale and compete globally.
General Partner of Resilience17, Hasan Luongo, said despite challenges acutely highlighted in 2024, Nigeria is set to continue leading as a global technology hub and can lead in AI. “We launched Go Time AI to prove this thesis. After the last 4 months working closely with the 1st cohort of AI companies, that conviction has only become stronger,” he stated.
The accelerator’s first cohort, which started in early 2024, saw five startups join the programme. These startups—Catlog, Sahel AI, Tyms, AI Teacha, and FriendNPal—are working on innovative solutions such as AI-powered customer service bots, contract review tools, accounting software, educational aids, and mental health platforms.
As part of the programme, each of these startups received $25,000 in initial funding, with the potential for up to $175,000 more in subsequent rounds.
Unlike other accelerator programmes, Go Time AI does not operate with a fixed cohort size, allowing it to remain flexible and open to new startups.
The programme also offers a unique mix of resources, including cloud credits, API services, and regular mentoring sessions. Participants also have access to “Office Hours,” where they engage directly with seasoned entrepreneurs and experts to discuss technical challenges, growth strategies, and product development.
Luongo further explained the accelerator’s approach, saying, “Our goal was not to teach founders how to run a company but specifically narrow the focus on what we see as the most important things any early-stage companies should be focused on. Building a world-class product experience and getting users into the product and to the magic moment where they see clear value.”
The Go Time AI accelerator aims to fill a huge gap for African founders, providing both capital and needed mentorship, technical expertise, and networking opportunities. With AI technology growing fast and being a global discourse, Resilience17’s initiative helps African startups to lead in this unique space.
Applications for the second cohort of the programme will open in May 2025, and Resilience17’s impact is expected to grow as more startups gain the resources they need to succeed in the AI industry.
Through its support for the next generation of African innovators, Resilience17 is stimulating resilience—one of Africa’s greatest strengths—and Go Time AI is essential to scale through the challenging, yet exciting, road to success.
The COMESA Competition Commission has launched an investigation into Airtel Mobile Commerce B.V. and MTN Group, for failing to disclose information regarding transaction fees and foreign exchange rates for cross-border transfers.
These alleged violations span consumer protection across multiple African markets, particularly in Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi.
Airtel is under investigation for its mobile money operations in these countries. Investigators claim that in some cases, Airtel Mobile Money Kenya displayed charges to the sender before confirming transactions that differed from the actual charges shown in the final confirmation.
Again, details such as the intermediary parties involved and the exchange rate used were reportedly not disclosed. This lack of transparency could mislead consumers and deny them the information they need to make informed decisions about their financial transactions.
In Malawi, Airtel Mobile Commerce Malawi Limited has been accused of withholding key details, such as the sender’s information, transaction charges, and the involvement of intermediary parties.
The commission’s investigation also states that Airtel’s service failed to show the amount in the recipient’s currency or the exchange rate used, further compromising transparency in cross-border money transfers.
Similarly, the investigation into Airtel Uganda revealed discrepancies between the exchange rate displayed to senders and the rate that was actually applied to the transactions.
In addition, the full extent of consumer information shared with intermediaries is not clear. The final confirmation message to senders allegedly did not include the exchange rate used, which could prevent them from verifying important transaction details.
MTN Group’s Mobile Money Uganda operation is also facing allegations of similar issues. The company is accused of showing different amounts to senders and recipients in international money transfers, damaging consumer trust and transparency.
According to the COMESA Competition Commission, these actions may be considered as “misleading and unconscionable” conduct, as they prevent consumers from receiving the necessary information to make informed decisions.
In line with COMESA’s competition regulations, payment platforms operating within its 21-member trade bloc are required to provide full disclosure of all transaction costs, including foreign exchange fees, before confirming any payments.
Although the investigations are ongoing, COMESA has made it clear that at this stage, no conclusions have been drawn regarding whether MTN and Airtel have violated the regulations or engaged in unfair business practices.
The investigation aims to determine if the telecom giants’ actions have breached consumer protection and anti-trust laws under COMESA’s regulations.
Telecommunication operators have reiterated that asking for tariff adjustments was the last resort in their effort to survive and continue to provide services to millions of Nigerians and businesses.
Over the weekend, representatives of MTN Nigeria, Airtel and 9mobile joined by the leaders of the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) had a no-holds-barred session with a cross-section of media personalities, and argued strongly that the 50% tariff adjustment was necessary to save the industry from total collapse.
NCC approved 50% tariff adjustment
Dr. Aminu Maida, EVC/CEO of NCC (Credit: NCC)
Recall that the industry regulator – the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) – on January 20, 2025 announced the approval for upward review of telecom tariffs in the West African country.
The Commission led by Dr. Aminu Maida, EVC/CEO of NCC, said the approval was in pursuant to its power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA) to regulate and approve tariff rates and charges by telecommunications operators
NCC said it “will be granting approval for tariff adjustment requests by Network Operators in response to prevailing market conditions.”
The adjustment, according to a statement by Reuben Muoka, the director, Public Affairs at NCC, said the tariff increase capped at a maximum of 50% of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100 per cent requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.
“These adjustments will remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study, and requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as is the Commission’s standard practice for tariff reviews. It will be implemented in strict adherence to the recently issued NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.
NLC disagrees with NCC and Telcos
Joe Ajaero, president of NLC (Credit: Google)
However, the announcement attracted criticisms in several quarters, especially among subscribers.
Leading the opposing voices is the Nigeria Labour Congress’s (NLC). The body also plans to protest against the 50% telecom tariff increase.
NLC argued that the increase would add to the hardship faced by Nigerians, especially when they are paying more for food, electricity, petrol and others.
CHRMG tackles NLC
The NLC’s argument attracted the attention of the Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups (CHRMG) which condemned the NLC’s planned protest, describing it as “misguided and not in the public interest.”
The CSOs said the tariff hike, approved by the NCC is a necessary measure to prevent the telecom sector from collapsing.
According to Dr. Gabriel Agibi, President of the group, with the current inflation rate at 34.8%, a nearly 300% increase from 8.5% in 2013 [sic: the last time telecoms tariffs were reviewed], the tariff adjustment is essential to reflect economic realities.
Agibi said the NCC’s decision was made in good faith, taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.
He added that the tariff hike is also crucial in ensuring that Nigeria’s telecom sector remains competitive with international standards.
Tariff adjustment is necessary to save industry from collapse – ALTON
Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, chairman of ALTON (Credit: Techeconomy)
According to ALTON Chairman, Engr, Gbenga Adebayo, NCC made the vital decision to allow Telecom companies to increase their tariffs for the first time in more than 12 years.
“It was a brave decision that should be recognised and commended”.
“All the customers of our member operators are understandably disappointed that they will have to pay more to stay connected. We recognise that. We know that Nigerians have been through a series of even more substantial price increases in other sectors like fuel and power.
“That is why it is so important for us to set out why the tariffs need to go up, how the revenue from the price increases will be used and how long it is going to take us to deliver the improvements that our customers will be able to see and appreciate”.
Adebayo who argued there’s no such thing as “too big to fail” in the telecoms industry, further reminded those kicking against the price adjustments that telecom sector is capital-intensive hence it requires constant investment to maintain the infrastructure that operators use to deliver connectivity, “ensuring that we can deliver the quality of service that our customers demand and continue to upgrade to the latest technologies like 5G”.
…a step to get Telecom Sector out of the ‘sickbed’ – Okigbo
Speaking during the session over the weekend,Tobe Okigbo, chief corporate services and sustainability Officer, MTN Nigeria, said:
“We are not talking about profitability right now; we will get there eventually. Our first priority is to get out of this sickbed. We are talking about survival because this industry is central to national development in the digital age. Imagine how backward we would become as a nation if the telecoms industry were to collapse.
“What are the alternatives? Telecoms services are critical to the growth and sustainability of key sectors like banking, healthcare, education, entertainment, and commerce. Is there any industry that doesn’t rely on telecoms services?
“Some of us are advocating for the sustainability of this industry not just because we work in the sector, but also because we have witnessed its evolution and growth. Now, we are seeing a decline; even before reaching our peak!
Ugonwa Nwoye, customer operations executive at MTN Nigeria (Source: LinkedIn/TO)
“Every sector that has collapsed or declined in Nigeria did not get to that point overnight; it happened gradually. We must not let the telco industry collapse.
“Let’s all do our part to keep this vital industry alive. With the right pricing, telcos will be able to ramp up investment that will enable them to provide even better quality services. We expect customers and regulators to hold us accountable. We all have a stake in the telecoms industry.
“It’s our industry. Yes ‘our’ because it belongs to all of us. Let’s not watch it die because we want to pay less, which will eventually suffocate the industry till it will no longer be able to breathe”, he said.
Nodding in agreement, Femi Adeniran, the director, Corporate Communications& CSR at Airtel Nigeria, re-emphasized the need to protect the ‘ostrich that lays golden eggs.
Femi Adeniran
According to him, telecommunications industry provides infrastructure for other sectors hence the services are not just about phone calls or browsing the internet; “it powers vital sectors like education, healthcare, banking, and public safety, and deserves to breathe too”.
He said the industry is even committed to play greater roles towards deepening Nigeria’s digital economy as a critical pillar of the country’s national development strategy.
…a step towards long-term sustainability
Kenechukwu Okonkwo, the director of Product Innovation & Business Development at 9mobile (Source: LinkedIn/TO)
Kenechukwu Okonkwo, the director of Product Innovation & Business Development at 9mobile, also commended the applauded the Federal Government for approving a 50% tariff adjustment, which he described as a vital initiative aimed at addressing persistent challenges in Nigeria’s telecom sector.
“This decision, reached after extensive deliberations, marks a significant step towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry by enabling the necessary investments to enhance service quality (QoS) for consumers nationwide”, he said, and pledged 9mobile’s commitment to offer even improved services to the customers.
Techeconomy gathered that telcos may start adjusting their tariffs (upward) in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, representatives of Globacom, one of the ‘big four’, where conspicuously absent at the session on Saturday.
