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  • Top 10 Nigerian News Updates You Should Know Today

    1. Nigeria Condemns Killing of Two Citizens in South Africa

    The Federal Government has condemned the killing of two Nigerians in South Africa amid renewed xenophobic tensions, describing the incidents as unacceptable and demanding immediate justice. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs identified the victims as Emeka Charles Iroegbu, who allegedly died following interrogation by Tshwane Metro Police officers in Pretoria, and Musa Yunana Joe, who was reportedly killed by unidentified attackers in Mpumalanga on the same day.

    The government called for a thorough investigation and warned that it could take further diplomatic steps if attacks on Nigerians continue. The killings come as hundreds of Nigerians are being evacuated from South Africa, further straining relations between both countries and renewing concerns over the safety of Nigerians living abroad.

    2. FG Orders Probe of X, Meta and AI Companies Over Competition Concerns

    The Federal Government has directed the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate X, formerly Twitter, Meta and several artificial intelligence companies over alleged anti-competitive practices and the exploitation of Nigerian media content. The directive follows concerns over market dominance, data handling and the use of locally generated content.

    The investigation signals Nigeria’s growing determination to regulate global technology companies operating within its digital economy. Stakeholders believe the outcome could lead to new regulations, financial penalties or fresh guidelines aimed at protecting consumers, media organisations and local digital businesses.

    3. Tinubu Promises Technology-Driven War Against Insecurity

    President Bola Tinubu has pledged to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against insecurity through the deployment of advanced technology, intelligence gathering and modern surveillance systems. He said the government would combine military operations with community engagement and infrastructure development to confront terrorism, banditry and other security threats.

    The President’s remarks come as security agencies intensify operations across different parts of the country. Analysts say the renewed focus on technology reflects efforts to modernise Nigeria’s security architecture and improve intelligence-led operations against criminal groups.

    4. FG Pushes for Lower Petrol Prices After Talks with Dangote, Marketers

    The Federal Government has intensified discussions with Dangote Refinery and fuel marketers as it pushes for a reduction in petrol prices following declining global crude oil prices and increased local refining capacity. Officials believe Nigerians should begin to benefit from improved domestic production and lower international market costs.

    Industry stakeholders say petrol prices could fall below ₦800 per litre if ongoing negotiations produce favourable wholesale pricing. Any reduction is expected to ease transportation costs, reduce inflationary pressure and provide relief for households and businesses across the country.

    5. Finance Minister Says Nigeria Has Moved Away from Economic Collapse

    The Minister of Finance has declared that Nigeria has successfully averted economic collapse and is gradually moving towards stability following the implementation of major economic reforms. According to the minister, key economic indicators now suggest that the country is beginning to recover despite persistent inflation and cost-of-living challenges.

    While government officials point to improving fundamentals, many Nigerians continue to grapple with rising prices and declining purchasing power. Economists say sustaining the recovery will depend on consistent reforms, increased investment and policies that deliver visible benefits to citizens.

    6. Tony Elumelu to Step Down as UBA Chairman

    United Bank for Africa (UBA) has announced that Tony Elumelu will step down as Chairman, with Emmanuel Nnorom named as his successor in a planned leadership transition. The move comes as the bank continues to expand its operations across Africa and strengthen its position in the financial sector.

    The transition has been widely welcomed in business circles as part of the bank’s succession planning strategy. Analysts say the orderly handover is expected to reinforce investor confidence and ensure continuity in one of Africa’s largest banking groups.

    7. Inflation Expected to Rise Further as CBN Faces Fresh Pressure

    Economic experts have projected a slight increase in Nigeria’s inflation rate in the coming months, citing rising food prices, energy costs and the lingering effects of recent economic reforms. The forecast places additional pressure on the Central Bank of Nigeria as it balances inflation control with economic growth.

    Analysts say any further increase could affect consumer spending and business activities if left unchecked. Attention is now focused on possible fiscal and monetary measures that could stabilise prices while supporting the country’s economic recovery.

    8. Police Arrest Father, Associate of Embattled PFIPC Convener

    The Nigeria Police Force has arrested the father and a family friend of Adeyemi Adeniyi, the embattled convener of the purported Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), as investigations into the controversial organisation continue. The arrests were carried out in Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

    Authorities say the investigation is expanding as they examine alleged forgery, impersonation and other related offences linked to the group. The case has continued to attract public attention, with more arrests and court proceedings expected.

    9. APC Chieftain Defends Tinubu’s Reforms, Urges Patience

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, insisting that the policies require time before Nigerians begin to experience their full benefits. He argued that ongoing investments in infrastructure and other strategic sectors would eventually strengthen the economy.

    The comments come amid continued public debate over the impact of government reforms on living costs. While supporters urge patience, critics maintain that many Nigerians are struggling with rising prices and worsening economic hardship.

    10. Nigerian Students Win Three Silver Medals at African Mathematics Olympiad

    Team Nigeria delivered an impressive performance at the 2026 Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire, returning home with three silver medals and one bronze. The achievement has been celebrated as another milestone for Nigerian students competing in international academic contests.

    Education stakeholders say the performance reflects the country’s growing investment in science, technology and mathematics education. They also expressed hope that the success would encourage greater support for gifted students and strengthen STEM education across Nigeria.

     

  • WhatsApp Begins Rollout of Usernames Feature to Boost User Privacy

    WhatsApp has begun rolling out its long-awaited usernames feature, giving users the option to connect with others without sharing their phone numbers in one of the platform’s biggest privacy updates in recent years.

    The feature is being released gradually and allows users to create a unique username that can be used to start conversations, join groups and connect with other people on the messaging platform. Phone numbers will still be linked to accounts but can remain hidden from users who are not saved as contacts.

    Privacy takes centre stage

    WhatsApp said the feature is designed to give users greater control over their personal information while making it easier to communicate safely with new contacts.

    Usernames can be created through the profile section in the app’s settings. Each username must meet specific requirements, including being between three and 35 characters long and using only lowercase letters, numbers, periods and underscores. The company also introduced measures to reduce impersonation and abuse.

    Rollout will happen in phases

    The update is currently available to a limited number of Android and iPhone users, with wider access expected in the coming months.

    Users who do not see the feature immediately have been advised to keep updating the app, as WhatsApp is releasing it in stages while monitoring performance and stability.

    Some users have already been able to reserve their preferred usernames ahead of the broader rollout. Meta has also advised businesses using the WhatsApp Business Platform to update their systems ahead of changes linked to the new username feature.

    What changes for users

    Since its launch, WhatsApp has relied on phone numbers as the primary identity for every account. The introduction of usernames brings the platform closer to other messaging services that allow users to communicate without exposing their phone numbers.

    Privacy experts say the feature could help reduce unwanted contact from strangers while giving users more flexibility over who can see their personal information.

    To check if the feature is available, users should update WhatsApp to the latest version and look for the Username option under their profile settings.

    The rollout is expected to continue throughout 2026 as WhatsApp expands access to more users worldwide.

     

  • NCC Moves to Review Call and SMS Interconnection Rates, Nigerians Brace for Possible Tariff Hike

    The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commenced a review of interconnection rates for voice calls and SMS services across telecom networks, a development that could lead to higher charges for mobile subscribers in Nigeria. The review comes as regulators assess the Mobile Termination Rate (MTR) regime introduced eight years ago.

    The move was discussed at a stakeholders’ consultative forum held in Lagos on Tuesday, where industry experts highlighted rising operational costs and economic pressures affecting telecom operators.

    Rising Costs Drive Regulatory Review

    According to KPMG partner, Wole Adenekan, the review has become necessary due to major economic changes since 2018.

    He cited inflation, naira depreciation, rising energy costs and higher equipment expenses as key factors increasing operators’ cost structures.

    “A mis-set MTR can enable dominant operators to foreclose smaller competitors through high termination barriers. A cost-reflective rate supports a level competitive playing field,” Adenekan said.

    He added that while cost-reflective pricing could improve efficiency and investment in the sector, consumers may ultimately bear the impact through higher retail charges.

    Telecom Sector Evolution Under Consideration

    Adenekan also pointed to technological shifts, including the rollout of 5G networks, increased use of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) services, as well as competition from Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, as reasons the current interconnection framework may no longer reflect industry realities.

    He noted that these changes have significantly altered how telecom services are delivered and consumed in Nigeria.

    NCC Explains Policy Direction

    The NCC, through its Head of Competition and Tariff Unit, Omotayo Mohammed, described the review as a necessary regulatory step aimed at aligning pricing structures with current economic and technological realities.

    She said the commission would also assess existing retail price controls and asymmetry arrangements to ensure consumer protection while maintaining sector stability.

    Concerns Over Possible Tariff Increase

    While the review is aimed at balancing operator sustainability and competition, there are growing concerns that any upward adjustment in interconnection rates could translate into higher call and SMS costs for consumers.

    The outcome of the review is expected to shape pricing trends in Nigeria’s telecom sector in the coming months.

     

  • MTN CEO Faces Backlash After Saying Unlimited Data Does Not Exist

    MTN Nigeria Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, has come under criticism after stating that unlimited mobile data plans are virtually non-existent around the world unless consumers are willing to pay extremely high fees.

    Toriola made the remarks during a press conference titled “Data on Trial” held in Lagos, where he addressed growing demands from subscribers for cheaper and unlimited internet services.

    MTN CEO Explains Data Pricing

    According to Toriola, the economics of mobile network infrastructure make truly unlimited data difficult to provide at the price levels many consumers expect.

    “The issue of unlimited data on mobile network, it does not exist anywhere in the world, except you are paying $400 a month or whatever. There are high bundles and fair usage policies,” he said.

    He argued that network providers cannot build enough capacity to support unlimited usage for everyone while maintaining quality service.

    Drawing a comparison with the aviation industry, Toriola said subsidising high-capacity services beyond sustainable levels would damage the industry.

    “If you decide to give everybody in Nigeria unlimited local air tickets for N200,000 in a month, do you think the airline industry will survive? It won’t,” he stated.

    Nigerians Challenge MTN’s Claims

    The comments triggered widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians disputing the CEO’s position and accusing telecom operators of overcharging customers.

    Several users pointed to countries such as Finland, the United Kingdom and France, where they claimed unlimited mobile data packages are available at lower costs relative to income levels.

    Others questioned why telecom companies advertise certain plans as unlimited if restrictions still apply.

    Some subscribers also compared MTN’s offerings to those of competing operators, arguing that better alternatives exist within the Nigerian market.

    Sowore Threatens Protest

    Human rights activist and African Action Congress presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, also criticised Toriola’s comments.

    In a post on X, Sowore described the claims as misleading and insisted that consumers in many countries enjoy unlimited or near-unlimited data plans at affordable rates.

    “Nigerians deserve affordable, reliable, and genuinely consumer-friendly telecommunications services, not endless tariff hikes, poor network quality, and excuses,” he wrote.

    He further hinted at possible nationwide protests against the telecom operator, declaring that the time to “Occupy MTN” was approaching.

    Growing Debate Over Data Costs

    The controversy has renewed public debate over internet affordability, network quality and telecom pricing in Nigeria.

    While operators argue that infrastructure costs and capacity limitations affect service delivery, many subscribers continue to demand more affordable data plans amid rising living costs and increasing dependence on digital services.

     

  • Kled AI Exits Nigeria, Imposes IP Ban Over Alleged 95% Fraud Rate

    A United States-based data marketplace, Kled AI, has withdrawn its app from Nigeria and imposed a nationwide IP ban following what it described as widespread and organised fraud among users.

    The company said the decision came after internal reviews revealed high levels of abuse that disrupted its operations.

    Company cites ‘95% fraudulent activity’

    Kled AI founder Avi Patel disclosed that about 95 per cent of user activity from Nigeria was found to be fraudulent.

    “We have removed Kled from the Nigerian app store and IP banned the entire region,” he said.

    The platform, launched in 2025, pays users to upload digital content such as photos and videos used to train artificial intelligence systems.

    Abuse of platform raises concerns

    According to the company, many users allegedly submitted black screens, duplicate files, internet-sourced images and AI-generated content instead of original data.

    The abuse, Patel said, made the platform ineffective for its intended purpose.

    He also alleged that some users bypassed identity checks by submitting fake documents, including altered foreign passports during verification processes.

    Comparison with other countries

    Kled AI noted that fraud rates in other markets such as Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines remained below 10 per cent despite larger user bases.

    The company said the contrast influenced its decision to suspend operations in Nigeria.

    Possible return not ruled out

    Despite the withdrawal, Patel indicated that the decision may not be permanent.

    He said the company could reconsider Nigeria if stronger fraud detection systems are developed to manage abuse at scale.

    Mixed reactions trail move

    The development has sparked reactions online, with some Nigerians acknowledging abuse of digital earning platforms, while others questioned the credibility of the claims.

    The incident adds to ongoing concerns about trust and credibility in Nigeria’s participation in the global digital economy.

  • MTN Nigeria Transfers MoMo Control to Parent in ₦95.5bn Fintech Deal

    MTN Nigeria has confirmed a major restructuring of its fintech operations, with its parent company, MTN Group, set to acquire majority stakes in its mobile money businesses in a deal valued at ₦95.5 billion.

    MTN Group takes control of fintech units

    The update, disclosed ahead of the company’s April 30, 2026 Annual General Meeting, shows that MTN Group will acquire 60 per cent stakes in MoMo Payment Service Bank and Y’ello Digital Financial Services.

    The transaction effectively shifts control of both entities to the group level, while MTN Nigeria retains a 40 per cent minority interest.

    This marks a strategic pivot in how the telecom giant manages its fast-growing but capital-intensive fintech segment.

    New structure to centralise operations

    Under the new arrangement, both fintech businesses will be housed within a newly created holding entity known as Fintech HoldCo.

    The structure will be owned 60 per cent by MTN Group and 40 per cent by MTN Nigeria, allowing the parent company to consolidate fintech operations across multiple markets.

    The move is designed to streamline decision-making and align operations under a unified continental strategy.

    Losses drive strategic shift

    The restructuring follows mounting financial pressure from MTN Nigeria’s fintech investments, which recorded a ₦62.56 billion impairment in 2025.

    The impairment reflects ongoing losses within the fintech units, despite years of expansion and market penetration.

    By transferring majority ownership, MTN Nigeria reduces its financial exposure while freeing up capital to strengthen its core telecommunications business.

    Part of wider continental plan

    The move aligns with MTN Group’s long-term ambition to build a unified fintech platform across Africa.

    The company has been gradually restructuring similar operations in other markets, including Ghana and Uganda, as part of a broader consolidation strategy.

    Nigeria’s scale and complexity made it a key piece in this transition, with the latest development marking a significant milestone.

    Future growth and possible listing

    The restructuring also positions MTN Group for future partnerships and potential capital market opportunities.

    With fintech operations now centralised, the group could explore expansion strategies, including collaborations with global payment players and a possible public listing in the future.

    The development signals a shift from fragmented operations to a more coordinated fintech ecosystem across the continent.

  • Amazon Moves Into Kenya’s Satellite Internet Market With Kuiper Licence Bid

    Amazon has taken a major step into East Africa’s connectivity space after applying for a licence to roll out its satellite internet service in Kenya.

    Kuiper application confirmed in Kenya

    Kenya’s Communications Authority confirmed on April 29, 2026, that Amazon, through its local arm Amazon Kuiper Kenya Limited, has submitted an application to deploy low-earth orbit broadband services in the country.

    If approved, the licence will allow the company to build and operate communications infrastructure, effectively enabling it to introduce its satellite internet service directly into the Kenyan market.

    The move positions Amazon to compete in a space already being shaped by existing satellite providers.

    Direct rivalry with Starlink takes shape

    Amazon’s entry sets up a direct contest with Elon Musk’s Starlink, which has been operational in Kenya since 2023.

    Project Kuiper is expected to deliver speeds of up to 400 Mbps for standard users, with even higher capacity for enterprise customers, placing it in the same performance category as competing services.

    The expansion reflects Amazon’s broader ambition to capture a share of Africa’s underserved internet market.

    Strategic partnerships could boost rollout

    Part of Amazon’s advantage may come from its partnership ecosystem, particularly links tied to Vodafone and Safaricom, which could help integrate the service into existing telecom infrastructure.

    This approach may allow faster deployment and stronger local penetration compared to standalone satellite offerings.

    It also signals a hybrid strategy that combines satellite coverage with terrestrial network support.

    Rural connectivity remains key challenge

    Despite the promise of expanded coverage, affordability remains a major barrier to adoption in Kenya’s rural areas.

    Although satellite internet can reach locations beyond fibre and mobile networks, the cost of user equipment continues to limit access for many households.

    Industry data shows that while demand exists, uptake has remained relatively low due to pricing constraints.

    Part of wider Africa expansion plan

    Amazon’s move into Kenya follows earlier regulatory approval secured in Nigeria in 2026, suggesting a deliberate regional rollout strategy.

    Over the past year, the company has been building its presence across Africa through licensing efforts and infrastructure partnerships aimed at underserved markets.

    Kenya’s inclusion signals the next phase of that expansion, rather than a standalone deployment.

    High-stakes race for Africa’s digital future

    The development underscores a growing competition between global tech companies targeting Africa’s connectivity gap.

    Both Amazon and SpaceX are positioning satellite internet as a solution for millions of unconnected users across the continent.

    The outcome will likely depend on speed of deployment, pricing models, and how regulators manage the rapid evolution of satellite broadband services.

  • EU Slams Meta Over Child Safety Failures, Charges Firm for Allowing Under-13 Access

    Meta Platforms has been formally charged by European Union regulators for allegedly failing to prevent children under 13 from accessing Facebook and Instagram. The move follows a two-year investigation into the company’s compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA).

    The European Commission said the charges relate to concerns that Meta has not adequately enforced its own age restrictions across its platforms.

    EU Findings Point to Weak Enforcement of Age Rules

    According to regulators, Meta’s systems for identifying and removing underage users remain ineffective despite clear policies banning children under 13. The Commission said enforcement gaps have allowed millions of minors to access the platforms.

    Estimates from the EU suggest that between 10 and 12 per cent of children under 13 in Europe are currently using Facebook and Instagram.

    Regulators Raise Concerns Over Child Safety Risks

    The Commission warned that the failure to restrict access exposes minors to harmful content and online risks. Officials said stronger safeguards are required under the Digital Services Act.

    EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen criticised the company’s approach, stating that existing rules must go beyond written policies and translate into real protection for users.

    Meta Asked to Strengthen Systems and Compliance Measures

    Regulators have directed Meta to overhaul its risk assessment processes and improve its ability to detect and remove underage users. The company is also expected to implement stricter enforcement mechanisms in line with DSA requirements.

    The charges mark one of the most significant enforcement actions under the EU’s new digital regulations targeting Big Tech firms.

  • MTN to Begin Subscriber Compensation After NCC Directive on Poor Service

    MTN Nigeria is set to begin compensating its subscribers following a directive from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), requiring telecom operators to refund users affected by poor network service.

    Automatic compensation for users

    The policy, which took effect in April 2026, mandates operators to identify affected customers and credit them directly without requiring any formal complaint or application.

    Subscribers who experienced dropped calls, slow data, or failed SMS may receive airtime or data compensation once service quality falls below NCC thresholds.

    Who qualifies for payback

    According to the guidelines, compensation applies only to users who experienced verified service disruptions within a specific period and carried out a paid activity such as calls, SMS, or data usage.

    However, brief or quickly resolved outages are excluded from the policy.

    The directive covers failures across voice, data, and messaging services.

    Shift in regulatory approach

    The move marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s telecom regulation, as consumers will now directly benefit from penalties imposed on operators.

    Previously, telecom companies were fined for poor service, but subscribers did not receive compensation.

    The NCC said the new framework prioritises consumer protection and accountability in service delivery.

    Directive timeline and enforcement

    The policy followed a directive issued by the NCC on March 29, 2026, instructing all telecom operators, including MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile, to implement compensation measures.

    Further guidelines released on April 7 outlined how eligibility, timelines, and credit systems would be applied.

    The framework is backed by existing regulations, including the Consumer Code of Practice and Quality of Service standards.

    Industry pressure and infrastructure challenges

    The development comes amid ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s telecom sector, including frequent fibre cuts and infrastructure limitations that affect service quality.

    With over 180 million telecom users nationwide, regulators have faced increasing pressure to ensure operators are held accountable in ways that directly impact consumers.

    The move is already gaining attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as millions of subscribers await possible compensation.

     

  • NBC Warns Broadcasters Over ‘Bias, Intimidation’ Ahead of 2027 Elections

    The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a strong warning to Nigerian broadcasters, cautioning that unethical conduct by presenters and anchors will attract sanctions as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

    The commission raised concerns over what it described as a growing pattern of violations of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code across news and political programmes.

    What happened

    In a statement released on Friday, the NBC said it has observed a steady increase in breaches of the sixth edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.

    According to the commission, broadcast platforms are increasingly being used in ways that fall short of their core responsibility to provide accurate, balanced, and professional information to the public.

    Concerns over presenters’ conduct

    The NBC noted that some presenters and anchors now compromise neutrality by expressing personal opinions as facts and denying guests fair hearing during discussions.

    It warned that such actions violate established broadcasting standards, which require impartiality and balanced representation of all sides on issues of public interest.

    “Henceforth, any anchor or presenter found to have expressed personal opinion as fact, bullied or intimidated a guest, denied fair hearing to opposing views, or otherwise compromised neutrality, shall be deemed to have committed a Class B breach,” the commission stated.

    Political content under scrutiny

    The commission also expressed concern over the use of broadcast platforms by political actors to spread divisive and unverified claims.

    It stressed that broadcasters remain fully responsible for all content aired, including live programmes, and cannot shift that responsibility to guests.

    Sanctions and warning

    The NBC reiterated its commitment to enforcing strict compliance with the broadcasting code, warning that violations involving hate speech, incitement, and lack of balance will attract penalties.

    It urged media organisations to maintain professionalism and ensure that the airwaves are not used to spread misinformation as Nigeria moves closer to another election cycle.