The Africa Pay TV Forecast indicates a notable expansion in the continent’s pay television subscriber base, with an expected surge of 12 million subscribers by the year 2029. The research explores current trends and offers a detailed analysis of the pay TV market, showcasing the steady momentum behind subscriber growth from 43 million at the close of 2023 to the anticipated figures in 2029. Significantly, the study identifies four countries projected to contribute to nearly half of the total subscription base, with Nigeria playing a prominent role in this evolving market. Satellite TV and digital terrestrial television (DTT) services are…
Author: Promise Babatunde
The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has officially announced the postponement of the implementation guidelines for the value-added tax (VAT) simplified compliance regime related to the supply of low-value goods through digital means by non-resident suppliers. This development comes as the tax agency seeks to ensure a seamless and efficient process for the collection and remittance of taxes in this category. In an official statement released earlier today, FIRS cited the need to conclude the development of a more effective process before proceeding with the implementation. The tax agency is committed to engaging with stakeholders to guarantee a smooth and…
Meta, the parent company overseeing Facebook and Instagram, has unveiled plans to implement more stringent content controls to enhance online safety for teenagers. The social media giant aims to prioritize age-appropriate experiences for young users, aligning with expert recommendations in adolescent development and mental health. In a detailed blog post, Meta outlined its commitment to placing teenagers under “the most restrictive” content control settings on both Instagram and Facebook. The company disclosed that it will obscure specific content categories, including posts related to suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders. These topics will no longer be recommended or easily accessible in…
President Bola Tinubu has declared a transformative vision for Nigeria, emphasizing a renewed commitment to prioritizing education and healthcare. The President’s assurance comes as part of his broader plan to create an economically stable and prosperous country, unveiled during the second-term inauguration of Governor Hope Uzodinma in Imo State. Tinubu, addressing the nation, stated, “Education and healthcare will receive more attention as we strive to create an economically stable and prosperous Nigeria. These sectors are integral to our vision for development, and we are resolute in our commitment to fostering positive change.” The President acknowledged the challenges faced by citizens…
The Federal Government, through the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), has taken delivery of seven new mega transformers as part of the Siemens Energy Deal. The newly acquired mega transformers, characterized by their high capacity and advanced technology, are slated to be strategically deployed to various substations across the nation. The primary objective behind this deployment is to fortify the existing power grid and consequently improve the overall power supply reliability. The Siemens Energy Deal, a comprehensive collaboration between the Nigerian government and Siemens, aims to revitalize and modernize the country’s power sector. The acquisition of these seven mega transformers…
In a recent address during Governor Hope Uzodimma’s second-term inauguration in Owerri, President Bola Tinubu shared a positive outlook on addressing the ongoing ‘Japa’ phenomenon. He reassured Nigerians that the Federal Government, in collaboration with sub-national bodies, is actively working to counter the mass departure of skilled professionals, particularly in crucial sectors like healthcare and technology. President Tinubu conveyed, “We understand the concerns related to the ‘Japa’ syndrome, and we want to assure everyone that we have plans in place. Working together with sub-national entities, we are set to roll out training programs to equip more citizens with the necessary…
The Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) in Ado-Ekiti has come to a standstill as labor unions declare an emergency and indefinite strike. This follows a vicious attack by suspected hoodlums who invaded the medical facility on Monday, leaving doctors assaulted and facilities damaged. Reports reveal that the attackers not only targeted hospital staff but also stole a corpse, believed to be the father of one of the hoodlums. In response to the incident, the Association of Resident Doctors at EKSUTH has directed its members to embark on an indefinite strike with immediate effect. In a letter addressed to the…
The U.S.-owned and operated container ship, M/V Gibraltar Eagle, faced an anti-ship ballistic missile strike off the coast of Yemen. The strike, attributed to Houthi-controlled areas, occurred at approximately 4 p.m. local time. Remarkably, the vessel reported no injuries or significant damage and continued its journey unscathed. This incident unfolded shortly after the U.S. and U.K. executed joint strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The vessel, flagged under the Marshall Islands, was struck southeast of Aden, prompting authorities, including the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, to initiate investigations. Amid rising tensions, ships in the region are advised to transit with…
The Joint Admission and Matriculations Board (JAMB) has officially launched the registration for the 2024/2025 Universal Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME), introducing improvements to streamline the process and broaden accessibility for candidates. JAMB Registrar, Ishaq Oloyede, highlighted the meticulous accreditation of 747 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres for the 2024 UTME, a substantial increase from the previous year. The emphasis on stakeholder involvement and a foolproof verification tool using the National Identity Number ensures the integrity of the examination. To initiate the registration, candidates must create a profile with their National Identity Number, utilizing JAMB USS codes 55019 or 66019. Oloyede…
The National Assembly has decided to push back its resumption date by a week. Initially slated for January 23, members of the legislative arm will now reconvene on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, as announced by Hon. Akin Rotimi, the spokesperson of the House of Representatives. Rotimi emphasized, “The House of Representatives has announced an extension of its ongoing recess, with resumption of members now slated for Tuesday, January 30, 2024. This announcement follows a communication by the Clerk of the House of Representatives, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, to members of the Green Chamber on Friday, January 12, 2024. …
Dangote Refinery has officially enlisted the support of seven major oil marketers to facilitate the smooth lifting and distribution of refined products from its massive 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) oil refinery. The distinguished list of partnering companies includes 11 Plc., Conoil Plc., Ardova Plc., MRS Oil Nigeria Plc., OVH Energy Marketing Limited, Total Nigeria Plc., and NNPC Retail. This collaboration marks a strategic move towards ensuring efficient and widespread availability of the high-quality products produced by the state-of-the-art refinery. Dangote Refinery’s decision to join forces with these well-established marketers is expected to enhance the reach and impact…
In a recent session of the United Nations Council, Israel’s Ambassador, Erlan Gidan, voiced concerns over the selective focus of the council, citing the Plateau Massacre in Nigeria and forced displacement in Pakistan as overlooked crises. Gidan questioned the council’s priorities, highlighting the tragic killing of 200 Nigerian Christians on Christmas and the broader pattern of violence against Christians in Nigeria over the past decade. The ambassador pointed out that while the council has convened numerous times to discuss the situation in Gaza and Israel’s defense against Hamas terrorists, it has failed to address the forced displacement of 1.3…