Monday, October 7

Technology

BREAKING : nstagram launches “teen accounts” with restrictive features for safety
News, Technology

BREAKING : nstagram launches “teen accounts” with restrictive features for safety

Instagram has launched “teen accounts,” a special feature to help protect users under the age of 18 and enhance their safety on the platform. Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, announced the rollout of the feature in a statement via its blog on Tuesday, September 17.  It said all accounts belonging to users under 18 will be automatically converted to Instagram teen accounts, which will be set to private by default.  The teen accounts will only receive messages from people they follow or are already connected to. The platform will also limit “sensitive content” including violence and videos promoting cosmetic procedures and filter out “offensive words and phrases” from comments and direct message requests.  The feature will allow teenag...
Apple makes changes to App Store
Business, Life Style, Technology

Apple makes changes to App Store

Apple on Thursday announced changes to its App Store after the European Union accused the iPhone maker of breaking the bloc’s landmark new digital rules. The EU said the App Store terms prevented app developers from freely steering consumers to alternative ways to pay, making Apple the first-ever tech firm to face accusations of breaching a new law known as the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Now Apple says there will be changes to comply with the DMA and address the findings of the European Commission, the EU’s powerful antitrust regulator. At the time, Brussels said developers could only steer customers through a link in their app that redirected the user to a web page to conclude any contracts. Regulators said Apple placed “several restrictions,” meaning app developers could ...
NCC Approves New Tariff Plans For MTN, Airtel, Glo, Other Telcos
Business, Technology

NCC Approves New Tariff Plans For MTN, Airtel, Glo, Other Telcos

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved new tariff guidelines for telecommunication (telcos) operators to enhance transparency, improve consumer understanding, and foster fair competition among the commission licensees. The commission also mandated all telcos in the country to limit the number of available tariff plans to a maximum of seven. Additionally, the number of bundles offered per operator has been reduced to 100, with the directive that no subscriber can be on more than one tariff plan at a time. The NCC defines a tariff plan as a structured pricing scheme outlining the charges and conditions under which telecommunications services are provided to subscribers. This information was disclosed in a document posted on the NCC’s website and signed by the E...
WhatsApp May Cease Operations In Nigeria Over $220 Million Penalty – Reports
Business, Technology

WhatsApp May Cease Operations In Nigeria Over $220 Million Penalty – Reports

WhatsApp is considering suspending its services in Nigeria following a $220 million fine imposed by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for data privacy violations. Sources close to Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, suggest that they are evaluating the possibility of withdrawing some services from Nigeria due to increasing regulatory pressures. In addition to the hefty fine, the FCCPC has instructed WhatsApp to stop sharing user data with other Facebook entities and third parties without explicit user consent. The commission also demands that WhatsApp provide transparency about its data collection methods and improve user control over their data. In an email to TechCabal, a WhatsApp spokesperson stated, “We want to be clear that, technically, ...
NITDA warns Nigerians of malicious android apps
Technology

NITDA warns Nigerians of malicious android apps

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has recently flagged several malicious apps targeting Android users in Nigeria. These apps are designed to infiltrate devices, steal sensitive information, and compromise user privacy. As cybercriminals grow more sophisticated, it is essential for individuals to stay vigilant and informed about potential threats. Malicious apps often disguise themselves as legitimate software, offering attractive features or services to lure unsuspecting users into downloading them. Once installed, these apps can conduct harmful activities such as data theft, unauthorized access to personal information, and financial fraud. In its latest statement, NITDA identified four particularly dangerous apps that Android users in Nigeria should ...
Nigerian govt raises alarm over rise in ransomware attacks
Technology

Nigerian govt raises alarm over rise in ransomware attacks

The Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team, ngCERT, has raised alarm over the rise in ransomware attacks on critical institutions in Nigeria. The ngCERT disclosed this in a recent statement, noting that Phobos ransomware attackers commonly gain entry into vulnerable networks. According to ngCERT, the most at-risk entities include providers of information technology and telecommunication services, such as managed cloud services, whose clients include critical government agencies, financial institutions, telecommunications, education, healthcare, service providers and non-governmental organisations Nigeria. Although specific affected organizations or entities in Nigeria were not mentioned, ngCERT assured that it was actively collaborating with vulnerable and affected organizations...
Facebook users with 5k followers in Nigeria, Ghana to earn money from July 1
Business, Technology

Facebook users with 5k followers in Nigeria, Ghana to earn money from July 1

Social media giant, Meta, has announced that Nigerian and Ghanaian content creators with 5,000 followers would, henceforth, earn money on Facebook starting from July 1, 2024. The company also rolled out monetization features, In-Stream Ads on Facebook and Facebook Ads on Reels yesterday. According to a statement released by Meta, the two features will enable creators to earn money for crafting original videos and cultivating community. It also said eligible creators in both countries would be able to earn money for their video and reel content, with support in over 30 languages globally. The statement read: “To use either product, creators must pass and remain compliant with Facebook’s partnership monetisation policies and content monetization policies and they must be at least...
US firm begins assembling electric cars at Lagos plant {VIDEO}
Business, Technology

US firm begins assembling electric cars at Lagos plant {VIDEO}

American electric vehicle manufacturer, Saglev, has started assembling electric cars at its assembly plant in Ikorodu, Lagos. This milestone was announced through a video shared by the Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, on Thursday, June 27. According to Saglev’s Chief Executive Officer, Sam Faleye, the electric vehicles can cover an impressive 300km on a single charge, equivalent to driving from Oshodi to Ajah in Lagos 10 times. Faleye also highlighted the convenience of charging these vehicles, which only requires once or twice a week, with a full charge taking approximately four hours using a level two charger. The caption reads: “It is great to see #saglev has commenced the production of electric cars at its state-of-the-art assembly plan...
Elon Musk threatens to ban Apple devices from his companies
Technology

Elon Musk threatens to ban Apple devices from his companies

Billionaire Elon Musk has threatened to ban Apple devices from his companies' premises if the iPhone creator goes forward with its planned OpenAI integration. On Monday, June 10, Apple held its annual Worldwide Developer's Conference, and it was announced that Apple will be partnering with OpenAI to put ChatGPT into voice assistant Siri. In iOS 18, Apple said people will be able to ask Siri questions, and if the assistant thinks ChatGPT can help, it will ask permission to share the question and present the answer directly. This allows users to get an answer from ChatGPT without having to open the ChatGPT iOS app. Photos, PDFs or other documents you want to send to ChatGPT get the same treatment. Reacting to the announcement, Musk called it a 'security violat...
Apple to break AI silence at developers conference
Technology

Apple to break AI silence at developers conference

Apple on Monday will attempt to persuade doubters on its AI strategy after rivals raced ahead in adopting artificial intelligence. AI and perhaps even a partnership with ChatGPT-maker OpenAI will likely be a driving theme at the kickoff of Apple’s WWDC developers’ conference in Silicon Valley, according to analysts. The conference is Apple’s annual rendezvous for developers who create apps for iPads, Macs and iPhones — and CEO Tim Cook will work hard to convince his audience that the company is a major AI player. While Apple has been quietly including AI features in its hardware for years, it has yet to solidify its overall strategy or embrace ChatGPT-style generative AI that took the world by storm in late 2022. Rivals Microsoft and Google have meanwhile rolled out product...
TikTok approved election disinformation ads targeting Ireland – investigation
Business, Technology

TikTok approved election disinformation ads targeting Ireland – investigation

A new investigation has found that video-sharing platform TikTok approved 16 advertisements targeting Ireland that contained election disinformation. Campaign group Global Witness submitted adverts containing false information encouraging people to vote online and by text; false information around the voting age; and incitement of force against immigrant voters. TikTok approved all of the ads for publication but they were withdrawn by Global Witness before anyone could see them. In response to the investigation, TikTok said all 16 of the ads violated its advertising policies and were correctly identified by its systems, but were approved after additional review due to human error by a moderator, who has since received retraining. The company said it has instituted new practices...
X tweaks rules to formally allow adult content
Technology

X tweaks rules to formally allow adult content

Elon Musk's X, formerly Twitter, has updated its rules to officially allow adult and graphic content on the platform. The move made official a policy already in place when the platform was known as Twitter before billionaire Elon Musk purchased it in 2022. In a recent update on its website, the San Francisco-based company said users “should be able to create, distribute, and consume material related to sexual themes as long as it is consensually produced and distributed. Sexual expression, whether visual or written, can be a legitimate form of artistic expression.” Adult material was allowed under the pre-Musk Twitter as well, although there was no official policy in place. X said it is restricting adult content for children and for adult users who choose not to see it. ...
Google to offer AI-generated answers in search results
Technology

Google to offer AI-generated answers in search results

Google has announced it would introduce AI-generated answers to online queries made by users in the United States, in one of the biggest updates to its search engine in 25 years. “I’m excited to announce that we will begin launching this fully revamped experience, ‘AI overviews,’ to everyone in the US this week,” Google chief executive Sundar Pichai said at an event in California on Tuesday, May 14. Google's search results will feature an AI summary at the top of the page before the more typical unfurling of links. The AI answers generated by Google's Gemini technology will offer succinct summaries of what it found on the internet with links to the online sources that supplied the information. "You can ask whatever's on your mind or whatever you need to get done - from resea...
Sub-sea cable cut disrupts internet connection in Africa for the second time in a year
News, Technology

Sub-sea cable cut disrupts internet connection in Africa for the second time in a year

The was a significant disruption in Internet connectivity across several East African nations on Sunday, May 12, following faults in the East African Submarine Cable System (EASSy) and SEACOM cables, according to reports by Internet monitoring groups NetBlocks and Cloudflare.  In a post on X, NetBlocks detailed the impact, indicating that Tanzania and the French Island of Mayotte were experiencing severe disruptions. “Network data show a disruption to Internet connectivity in and around multiple East African countries,” NetBlocks wrote.  It was reported that Mozambique and Malawi were also affected, but to a medium extent.  Cloudflare corroborated these findings, noting ongoing connectivity issues in Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, and Madagascar. This i...
Microsoft to shut down West Africa operation in Nigeria
Technology

Microsoft to shut down West Africa operation in Nigeria

In a major blow to Nigeria's tech sector, reports suggest that Microsoft is considering shutting its African Development Centre based in Lagos. This move, if confirmed, would mean that at least 200 staff would be out of a job. It would also have profound implications for the country’s technological landscape, potentially impacting job opportunities and innovation in the sector. According to industry insiders who spoke to The Guardian newspaper on Tuesday, May 7, Microsoft informed staff on Monday, May 6, of the closure plans. Affected employees are slated to receive salary payments up until June and will continue to be covered by health insurance. Sources suggest Nigeria’s challenging economic conditions likely played a role. The closure appears to affect only the ADC’s W...
The common household item that could be killing your WiFi connection
News, Technology

The common household item that could be killing your WiFi connection

There's one household item that could be zapping away your wifi connection, and you'll never guess what it is  Are you constantly waiting for your internet to load when nothing seems to be wrong with your Wi-Fi router? You’re not alone. But what you may not know is that there’s something within your home which could be sucking the life out of your speeds, and it’s not anything electrical. Forget microwaves, TVs or gaming consoles. This little-known household object is something you’ll never expect to be wreaking havoc on your internet. A Wi-Fi booster could be an option if your speeds are always low. (Getty Stock Images) The problem is something that’s oh-so stylish, and pretty essential for this day and age. It’s the mirror. Now, th...
MTN Disconnects 8.6 Million Lines Over NIN-SIM Linkage
Business, Technology

MTN Disconnects 8.6 Million Lines Over NIN-SIM Linkage

MTN Nigeria said it had eliminated at least 8.6 million lines from its network in compliance with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) ruling of February 28, 2024, which requires telecommunication companies to disconnect SIM cards not linked to the National Identity Number (NIN). This information was disclosed in the company’s financial report for the first quarter (Q1) of 2024, indicating an impact on the operations of the quarter. MTN specified that users with more than five lines connected to an unverified NIN and those who did not submit their NIN are the ones affected by the complete ban on their lines. Additionally, MTN mentioned that the NCC has extended the deadline from April 15 to July 31, 2024, to allow users with fewer than five lines connected to an un...
Microsoft Edge gets a built-in internet speed test tool, here’s how to use it
Technology

Microsoft Edge gets a built-in internet speed test tool, here’s how to use it

The speed test feature was deprecated from Edge last year Serving tech enthusiasts for over 25 years. TechSpot means tech analysis and advice you can trust.  In a nutshell: Microsoft has rolled out a new update to its Edge browser, re-adding one notable feature removed from the software last year. Version 124.0.2478.80 sees the internet speed test return to the sidebar and incorporates the latest security updates of the Chromium project, fixing a couple of critical vulnerabilities.  Newer Microsoft Edge versions come with a sidebar toolbox that incorporates several productivity tools, such as a world clock, calculator, unit convertor, timer, stopwatch, and more. Until about a year ago, the panel also included an internet speed test tool...
Millions of Americans Might Lose Internet Access Today. Here’s What You Need to Know
News, Technology

Millions of Americans Might Lose Internet Access Today. Here’s What You Need to Know

The Affordable Connectivity Program—a federal benefit that provides discounts on high-speed internet access to low-income Americans—ends on April 30. Here's what happens next. TODAY MARKS THE end of the Affordable Connectivity Program, a landmark piece of US government legislation that aimed to make it easier for people to afford an internet connection in their homes. The program’s end marks a big shift, with the cessation of benefits set to affect millions of Americans who might need them most. What Is the Affordable Connectivity Program? In 2021, the US Congress passed the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal. It was a massive, ambitious piece of legislation that aimed to shore up a variety of floundering industri...
Elon Musk threatens X users involved in engagement farming
Technology

Elon Musk threatens X users involved in engagement farming

Elon Musk has warned users on his micro-blogging platform X (formerly Twitter) that they will be penalised for engaging in engagement farming. The billionaire businessman made this known today via his X account. He wrote: “Any accounts doing engagement farming will be suspended and traced to source.” Ever since X users started getting paid by the platform for having massive engagements, some users now engage in any unscrupulous means to chase clout and farm engagement, an act that Musk says will soon be penalised. Kindly Share this Story Kindly leave your comment, like and share this story: FOR MORE INFO, TRENDING AND BREAKING NEWS UPDATE, LIVE STREAM JOIN OUR FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, TWITTER, TIKTOK AND YOUTUBE CHANNEL @OFFICIALSNOWTV https://youtu.be/aQcWs78...
FG Requests NINs From Applicants For Trade Grants
Technology

FG Requests NINs From Applicants For Trade Grants

The Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment has mandated applicants of the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme to include their National Identification Numbers (NIN) as part of the essential criteria for accessing grants designed to alleviate the effects of recent economic reforms on businesses in the country. SNOW TV News understands that the Bank of Industry, on behalf of the government, disclosed its intention to distribute N200 billion across three funding categories to bolster manufacturers and businesses throughout the nation. The adoption of the new rule was prompted by regulatory updates from the Central Bank of Nigeria, which necessitated Nigerians to link their National Identification Numbers with their bank accounts. The Trade Minister, Doris Aniete, issued the ne...
NCC, NIMC unveil collaborative efforts to enhance NIN-SIM linkage processes
Technology

NCC, NIMC unveil collaborative efforts to enhance NIN-SIM linkage processes

The National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, and the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, have announced a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing processes related to the National Identification Number (NIN)-SIM linkage. Recall that in recent times, the NIN-SIM linkage exercise has become subject of national discourse, reflecting the critical importance of aligning SIM registrations with individuals’ unique national identification numbers. Recognising the significance of this initiative in enhancing security and improving service delivery, both NIMC and NCC said they were committed to improving processes and enhancing efficiency. Under this collaboration, NIMC and NCC, in a statement jointly signed by the two Commissions, said they will work closely to explore synerg...
Internet disruptions may last up to 5 weeks … as Glo 1 remains functional
Technology

Internet disruptions may last up to 5 weeks … as Glo 1 remains functional

Agony of corporate and individual internet users in Nigeria which has lasted since Thursday is not about to end soon as the latest reports indicate the service disruption may last for a further five weeks. One of the undersea cable companies affected by the service disruptions, MainOne, said in a statement on Friday evening that the situation might persist for two to three weeks for the problem to be fixed. It explained that investigations revealed that the fault came from an external incident that resulted in a cut on the submarine cable system in the ocean. MainOne said the rectification of the fault, retrieving necessary spares required for repair, “sailing to the fault location for the repair work might take one to two weeks, while about two to three weeks of transit time ...
Cable cuts: Operators working to restore connectivity, says NCC 
Technology

Cable cuts: Operators working to restore connectivity, says NCC 

The Nigeria Communications Commission has confirmed that several African internet service providers faced outages due to submarine cable cuts, with cable operators actively engaged in efforts to restore connectivity. The telecom regulator made this disclosure in a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, on Thursday. The NCC identified affected operators to include West African Cable System and African Coast to Europe, along with SAT3 and MainOne, which experienced downtime. The regulator attributed the disruptions to incidents in Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal, resulting in subsequent disruptions in Portugal. The commission noted similar challenges along other undersea cable routes, such as Seacom, Europe India Gateway, and Asia-Africa-Europe 1, whi...
Massive internet disruption as undersea cables are damaged …Glo 1 unaffected
Technology

Massive internet disruption as undersea cables are damaged …Glo 1 unaffected

Massive internet outages have been reported in Nigeria following damage to international undersea cables supplying the country with connectivity. Telecommunications companies and a number of banks which rely on the affected cables for internet services have been affected by the outage. According to reports, the damage affected major undersea cables near Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire and has led to internet downtime across West and South African countries. The undersea cables affected are the West Africa Cable System (WACS), the Africa Coast to Europe (ACE), MainOne, and SAT3.   However, Glo 1, owned by Nigeria’s leading digital services company, Globacom, was not affected by the damage and has continued to operate normally. Data users, internet service providers and fin...
Internet Outage: Cause Of MTN, Banks Network Failure Revealed
Technology

Internet Outage: Cause Of MTN, Banks Network Failure Revealed

Nigerian banks and telecommunications companies are grappling with significant internet disruptions following damage to key international undersea cables. SNOW TV News reports that the disruptions, which began on Thursday, are attributed to damages near Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, affecting vital connectivity across West and South African countries. The West Africa Cable System (WACS), Africa Coast to Europe (ACE), MainOne, and SAT3 cables are among those impacted by the incident. This has led to widespread network failures, leaving some Nigerian banks unable to process transactions and causing considerable inconvenience for customers. Telecommunication users, particularly subscribers of MTN, have reported deteriorating data services since the onset of the disruptions. In response to ...
Elon Musk says he’s considering scrapping ‘likes’ and reposts on X posts
Technology

Elon Musk says he’s considering scrapping ‘likes’ and reposts on X posts

Elon Musk has announced that his social media company X is considering getting rid of likes and repost figures on posts. He made the comment to attendees of the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media, and Telecom Conference on Wednesday, March 7. Musk also told the crowd that X is a few months away from receiving approval for a money transmitter license in New York. The Tech boss bought the social media site Twitter in 2022, and since then he has announced several major changes to the site. At the time, he claimed that under his ownership, the site, renamed X, would be an 'everything app,' including not just messaging but also banking and shopping.  Kindly Share this Story Kindly leave your comment, like and share this story: FOR MORE INFO, TRENDING AND ...
Reactions As Facebook Users Unable To Access Accounts
Technology

Reactions As Facebook Users Unable To Access Accounts

Thousands of Facebook users, in a sudden and unexpected turn of events found themselves unable to access their accounts today, sparking widespread concern and frustration across the globe. The issue, which appeared without warning, forced users to flock to alternative social media platforms such as X to express their dismay and seek solutions. The problem manifested when users were abruptly logged out of their Facebook accounts and subsequent attempts to log back in were met with failure. As the news of the outage spread rapidly, speculation began to circulate among the digital community regarding the potential causes of the issue. Users and tech enthusiasts alike have been left to ponder whether the disruption is the result of a technical fault, a cyber-attack, or somethin...
BREAKING : Meta-owned Facebook, Instagram suffer glitch
Technology

BREAKING : Meta-owned Facebook, Instagram suffer glitch

Meta-owned Facebook and Instagram have suffered massive glitch with many users unable to gain access to their accounts. SNOW TV NEWS is yet to ascertain if the issue is peculiar to only Nigerian users. Meta or Facebook had not come out with a reason or statement behind the outage as of the time of filing this report. Many users initially feared their accounts were hacked, with fruitless efforts to reset passwords. This is not the first time a Meta-owned platform has faced issues. Facebook suffered a global outage in 2022, making many unable to watch videos or send messages. Kindly Share this Story Kindly leave your comment, like and share this story: FOR MORE INFO, TRENDING AND BREAKING NEWS UPDATE, LIVE STREAM JOIN OUR FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, TWITTER, TIKTOK A...
NIN: NCC Reveals What Will Happen To Barred Lines After 180 Days
Technology

NIN: NCC Reveals What Will Happen To Barred Lines After 180 Days

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has revealed that over 40 million telephone lines barred because owners failed to link their SIM cards with their National Identification Number (NIN) will soon be unable to make calls. According to the NCC Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Mouka, on Tuesday, if the affected lines are not acted upon in the next 180 days, they won’t be able to receive calls but will only be able to text and make calls. But after the stipulated days, they will also be barred from making calls. He added that if no action is taken to rectify the SIM’s status within 365 days, the owners will lose such lines completely to the service providers. According to him, the phone lines blocked by telecommunications companies have exceeded the deadline of February 28...
Step-by-step guide to linking mobile phone numbers to NIN
Crime, Technology

Step-by-step guide to linking mobile phone numbers to NIN

No fewer than 40 million telephone lines were barred by telecommunication operators over the weekend following the expiration of the February 28, 2024 deadline issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission mandating telecom consumers to link their Subscriber Identity Modules to their National Identity Numbers. This represents a 28 million increase from the 12 million telephone lines initially planned to be deactivated by telcos, following the NCC directive. In a December 2023 notice, the NCC had asked telcos to bar SIMs that had not been linked to their owners’ NINs by February 28, 2024. On Thursday, the NCC Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Mouka, ruled out an extension of the deadline, warning that telcos that failed to enforce the deadline would be sanctioned. However, t...
NIN-SIM linkage: 40 million subscribers disconnected
Technology

NIN-SIM linkage: 40 million subscribers disconnected

Telecommunications companies say they have disconnected over 40 million subscribers who did not present their National Identity Numbers in line with Nigeria’s Subscribers Identification Module and NIN linkage policy. The Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria, Gbenga Adebayo, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday. This represents a 28 million surge from the 12 million telephone lines initially planned to be deactivated by telcos. Adebayo said the second tier of disconnections that will happen are subscribers who have provided NIN but have more than five Mobile Subscription Identification Numbers associated with their NIN, and these have not been verified. “I can tell you that over 40 million lines have been blocked, and the affected cu...
NiMet forecasts 3-day haziness, thunderstorms from Sunday to Tuesday
Technology

NiMet forecasts 3-day haziness, thunderstorms from Sunday to Tuesday

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet, has forecast hazy and thundery weather conditions from Sunday to Tuesday nationwide. NiMet’s weather outlook released on Saturday in Abuja, predicted dust haze over the Northern region during the forecast period with prospects of thunderstorms over parts of Taraba and Kaduna states during the afternoon and evening period. According to the agency, a sunny atmosphere with patches of clouds are expected over the North Central with prospects of thunderstorms over parts of Nasarawa, Benue, Kogi and the Federal Capital Territory during the afternoon and evening period. “Cloudy skies with intervals of sunshine are expected over the inland states and the coastal cities of the South with prospects of morning thunderstorms over parts of Lagos state...
MTN Nigeria Plc Reports Historic Loss, Wipes Out Shareholders’ Funds Amid Forex Turmoil
Technology

MTN Nigeria Plc Reports Historic Loss, Wipes Out Shareholders’ Funds Amid Forex Turmoil

MTN Nigeria Plc has disclosed a staggering pre-tax loss of N177.8 billion for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, marking a drastic downturn from the N518.8 billion pre-tax profit reported in the previous year. This loss has led to a complete erasure of the shareholders’ funds, an occurrence that has jolted the investor community and raised questions about the company’s future resilience. The telecom giant attributed this significant financial downturn to a massive foreign currency loss, which soared to N740 billion in 2023, up from a loss of N81 billion in 2022. This marks the first instance of a loss for MTN Nigeria since its listing on the Nigerian stock exchange, signaling a challenging period for the company amidst turbulent economic conditions. “The loss was significant...
Chinese scientists successfully clone two goats
Technology

Chinese scientists successfully clone two goats

China has claimed to have successfully cloned two goats, and they plan on using the cloned animals to harvest wool.  Scientists working under Xi Jingping's plan to succeed the Western world in technological advancements believe they have successfully cloned two Tibetan goats.  It marks the very first time the success has ever been seen globally The cloning means Chinese farmers can use the extra animals to harvest further furs, used in the cashmere wool trade. Su Jianmin, the chief scientist leading the cloning programme, has since claimed the team were successful in birthing a pair of cloned goats in Qinghai, northwest China.  A team of researchers at the Northwest A&F University were hard at work on somatic cell cloning. Chief Jianmin said: "T...
Why NCC Direct MTN, Glo, Airtel, Other Networks To Start Blocking SIM Cards Without NIN
Technology

Why NCC Direct MTN, Glo, Airtel, Other Networks To Start Blocking SIM Cards Without NIN

This directive was further reiterated today by the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida. The National Communication Commission (NCC) has directed telecom operators in Nigeria to disconnect telephone subscribers who have not linked their National Identification Numbers (NIN) by February 28, 2024. Maida, who spoke during the NCC’s Special Day at the 45th Kaduna International Trade Fair on Wednesday (today), stressed the importance of linking NIN to SIM cards for critical national security. Represented by the Director of Public Affairs at the NCC, Reuben Mouka, Maida also confirmed that the deadline of February 28th remains in effect for telecom operators to disconnect subscribers who have not linked their NIN to their SIM cards. “To this end, the National ...
Link NIN-SIM to ensure security – NCC urges telecom consumers
Technology

Link NIN-SIM to ensure security – NCC urges telecom consumers

Nigeria Communications Commission, NCC, says as a matter of critical national security, Telecom Consumers must link their National Identification Number-Subscriber Identification Module (NIN-SIM). To this end, the Commission has directed all telecommunication operators to bar phone lines of subscribers whose lines are not linked to their NINs on or before February 28, 2024. Speaking at the NCC special day at the ongoing 45th Kaduna International Trade Fair, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Aminu Maida, said one major objective of linking subscribers’ NIN to SIM is to help improve and enhance national security in the country. To link the NIN to one’s SIM, he explained that a subscriber needs to submit his/her NIN to their respective Service Pro...
NIMET reveals States That Will Witness Thunderstorm From Wednesday {FULL LIST}
Technology

NIMET reveals States That Will Witness Thunderstorm From Wednesday {FULL LIST}

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s (NIMET) weather forecast, issued in Abuja on Tuesday, predicts sunny and thundery weather conditions across Nigeria from Wednesday to Thursday. The publication revealed that the northern region is expected to experience a sunny atmosphere during this period, with patches of clouds. In the North Central cities, NiMet anticipates a sunny atmosphere with chances of isolated thunderstorms in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Kwara, Kogi, and Benue states later in the day, SNOW TV News understands. For the Inland of the South and coastal areas, NiMet foresees cloudy skies with intervals of sunshine. There is also a possibility of isolated thunderstorms in the morning in parts of Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa States. NiMet also ...
New York City sues TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and other social platforms over youth mental health crisis
Technology

New York City sues TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and other social platforms over youth mental health crisis

New York City, its schools, and public hospital system have announced a lawsuit against the tech giants that run Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube, blaming their “addictive and dangerous” social media platforms for fueling a childhood mental health crisis that is disrupting learning and draining resources. The lawsuit is filed in the California Superior Court, stating the social applications are purposefully designed to be addictive to children and teenagers. The suit follows the Health Commissioner’s Advisory that DOHMH Commissioner Dr Vasan issued last month, citing the continued use of social media as a public hazard. The advisory calls for parents, healthcare providers, and more to take action. “Over the past decade, we have seen just how addictive and overwh...
NiMet Predicts Three-Day Haziness, Cloudiness Across Nigeria
News, Technology

NiMet Predicts Three-Day Haziness, Cloudiness Across Nigeria

According to the weather forecast released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on Sunday in Abuja, haziness and cloudiness are expected across the country from Monday to Wednesday. NiMet predicts that the northern and north-central states will experience moderate dust haze, with a horizontal visibility range of 2km to 5km. However, in Benue, Kogi, and Kwara, there may be patches of cloud in a hazy atmosphere. Additionally, patches of clouds are expected over the Inland of the South throughout the forecast period, Snow tv  understands. “Patches of clouds are expected over the coast in the morning, with chances of isolated thunderstorms over parts of Edo, Ondo, Ogun, Lagos, Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa states during the afternoon and evening hours,” Nimet noted. NiMe...
Nigeria to experience more excessive heat wave – NiMET
Technology

Nigeria to experience more excessive heat wave – NiMET

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has said that the current excessive heat experienced in the country is expected to continue. In its recent weather and climate update, the agency detailed the implications of the current weather conditions and provided guidance to the public on how to cope with the situation. "Air temperatures have reached 41°C in the North and 39°C in the South, with projections indicating that temperatures will remain elevated in the upcoming days," the agency stated. NIMET highlighted dehydration as a significant consequence of these extreme weather conditions, warning of potential health issues such as fainting, heat-related illnesses, respiratory problems, and heightened susceptibility to chronic conditions like chickenpox, measles, heat rash, weakness, ...
World Radio Day: FG pledges support for community radio stations
Technology

World Radio Day: FG pledges support for community radio stations

The Federal Government has pledged its commitment to expand the community radio as a tool to strengthen the nation’s democracy. This was disclosed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a statement issued on Tuesday in commemoration of World Radio Day. World Radio Day is celebrated annually every February 13. The theme for this year’s celebration titled, ‘Radio: A century informing, entertaining and educating,’ “reflects the remarkable achievement of radio as a means of communication and information for over 100 years, despite the advent of social media,” Idris stated. The minister noted that radio plays a “vital role in shaping public opinion and promoting cultural unity in our diverse nation,” adding that it also provides a “platform f...
France records over 5000 deaths due to 2023 summer heat
Technology

France records over 5000 deaths due to 2023 summer heat

More than 5,000 people died in France as a result of summer heat last year, health authorities said Thursday, February 8. “Everyone has been affected,” Caroline Semaille, head of France’s public health agency, told reporters as she presented a report on heat-related deaths last year.  The summer of 2023, marked by four heatwaves including in August and September, was the fourth hottest on record in France. d: “I’m still Live, bro. We was just looking at the (video.) It’s like crazy bro, like God damn. “You’re blessed with your voice, you’re blessed with performing, you’re blessed to be you, you’re blessed to be number one and you’re also blessed to have a (big private part.)” The year 2023 was also the hottest year on record globally. According to France’s public...
SIMs not linked to NIN will be deactivated month-end, NCC warns
Technology

SIMs not linked to NIN will be deactivated month-end, NCC warns

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) said SIM cards that are yet to be linked to the National Identity Numbers (NIN) will be deactivated by the end of February.  NCC Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Aminu Maida, disclosed this during a meeting with journalists on Tuesday, Feb. 6. "By the end of this month, SIMs without NIN will no longer work,” Mr Maida said.  The compulsory linkage began in December 2020 when the government directed telecommunication companies to block calls from unregistered and unlinked NINs. The policy was expected to help the authorities in fighting bandits and terrorists who kidnap and kill innocent people daily. Despite the extension of deadlines, many phone lines are yet to be linked.  Speaking on Tuesday, Mr Ma...
Instagram tightens its teen policy by banning under-18s from receiving messages from strangers
Technology

Instagram tightens its teen policy by banning under-18s from receiving messages from strangers

Meta has rolled out a new safety update by banning under-18s from receiving Instagram messages from anyone they do not follow or are not connected to. The social media giant said the change is part of its ongoing work to provide 'age-appropriate experiences for teens' across its apps. The change extends an existing Meta policy which does not allow adults to message teenagers who do not follow them.  Meta said in a blog post: 'Under this new default setting, teens can only be messaged or added to group chats by people they already follow or are connected to, helping teens and their parents feel even more confident that they won't hear from people they don't know in their DMs.  'This default setting will apply to all teens under the age of 16 (or under 18 in c...
NDIC, others to spend over N8.7bn on software in 2024
Technology

NDIC, others to spend over N8.7bn on software in 2024

Three government agencies, the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, NDIC, the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, and the Nigeria Immigration Service have budgeted to spend over N8.7 billion on computer software acquisitions in 2024. This was disclosed in the recently released government-owned enterprises (GOEs) budget for 2024 by the Ministry of Budget and National Planning. Accordingly, NDIC leads all other government agencies in terms of money allocated for software this year, which stood at N5.2 billion, according to its budget plan. Also, FIRS, the country’s tax agency, is planning to acquire the software with the sum of N3.5 billion, and it is the second-biggest spender among the GOEs. Similarly, the Nigeria Immigration Service has budgeted N874.5 million to acquire t...
‘Love is Blind’ Renee Poche sues Netflix, claims love match was a violent addict
Technology

‘Love is Blind’ Renee Poche sues Netflix, claims love match was a violent addict

Renee Poche, a contestant on "Love is Blind" has filed a lawsuit against producers of the Netflix reality show for pairing her with a walking red flag and allegedly trying to bankrupt her for speaking out.  On the show, contestants go to separate pods to meet their dates, flirting and conversing through speakers while unable to see the other person. In order to meet in person, two contestants have to first get engaged and then are swept off to a Mexican resort for a vacation before being sent to their hometowns to plan the wedding. Renee who appeared in season five of the popular reality dating show, filed a lawsuit against Netflix and the production company Delirium TV for matching her with a “lying, violent, emotionally unstable drug addict” and forcing her to spend long ...
Two arrested for allegedly manufacturing fake drinks in Lagos {VIDEO}
Technology

Two arrested for allegedly manufacturing fake drinks in Lagos {VIDEO}

Men of the Lagos state police command have arrested two persons identified as Imo Lawrence and Magnus Nwonka, for allegedly operating a fake factory where fake drinks were being produced. A statement released by the spokesperson of the state police command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, says the two suspects were arrested after they were found in possession of fake drinks. He said in the course of investigation, the suspects led detectives to their inconspicuous, multi-room ‘factory.'” Hundeyin added that investigation was ongoing on the discovery. ‘’Officers of Ojo Division today arrested the duo of Imo Lawrence ‘m’ aged 35 and Magnus Nwonka ‘m’ aged 42 in possession of fake drinks.  In the course of investigation, the suspects led detectives to their inconspicuous, multi-room ‘...
Tesla recalls 2 million vehicles to limit use of Autopilot feature after nearly 1,000 crashes
Technology

Tesla recalls 2 million vehicles to limit use of Autopilot feature after nearly 1,000 crashes

Tesla is recalling nearly all 2 million of its cars on US roads to limit the use of its Autopilot feature following a two-year probe by US safety regulators of about 1,000 crashes in which the feature was engaged. The recall was disclosed in a letter to Tesla posted by NHTSA, which said that Tesla had agreed to the software update that would limit the use of the Autosteer feature if a driver repeatedly fails to demonstrate he or she is ready to resume control of the car while the feature is on. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said the Autopilot system can give drivers a false sense of security and be easily misused in certain dangerous situations when a Tesla’s technology may be unable to safely navigate the road. The over-the-air software update will give Tesla dr...
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