Aeesha's Blog

Category: Breaking News

  • Banks, Telcos Face March Deadline On Failed Airtime Refunds

    Banks and telecommunications companies have been given a firm deadline of March 1, 2026 to implement a comprehensive refund framework designed to protect consumers from losses arising from failed airtime and data purchases, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) jointly announced on Thursday in Abuja.

    The new policy, finalised after months of consultations between the NCC, CBN, mobile network operators (MNOs), deposit money banks (DMBs), value-added service (VAS) providers and other relevant stakeholders, seeks to address mounting consumer grievances relating to debits without value during airtime and data transactions caused by network outages, system glitches and human input errors.

    According to the framework, subscribers who are debited for airtime or data that fail to deliver value will be entitled to an immediate refund within 30 seconds of the failed transaction — regardless of whether the failure occurred on the telecoms or bank side of the transaction chain. Where transactions are pending, the refund window may extend up to 24 hours.

    Nnenna Ukoha, Head of Public Affairs at NCC, said the initiative was driven by an increase in complaints from consumers who were often debited without receiving airtime or data, and who faced prolonged delays in obtaining redress.

    “Failed top-ups rank among the top three consumer complaints,” Ukoha stated, emphasising the need for a uniform, enforceable Service Level Agreement (SLA) across all players in the transaction ecosystem.

    Under the terms of the SLA, both banks and telecommunications operators are obligated to clearly define their roles and responsibilities in processing transactions and effecting refunds.

    The framework also mandates that customers receive SMS notifications on the success or failure of each airtime and data purchase, a move aimed at enhancing transparency and consumer confidence in digital transactions.

    The framework also provides for the establishment of a Central Monitoring Dashboard, to be jointly hosted by the NCC and CBN, which will enable real-time tracking of failed transactions, responsible parties, refunds and SLA breaches.

    Freda Bruce-Bennett, Director of Consumer Affairs at the NCC, explained that the monitoring tool is expected to improve oversight and accountability across the entire transaction value chain.

    Consumers have already started benefiting from the regulatory engagements. Bruce-Bennett disclosed that, pending final regulatory approval and technical integration, MNOs and banks have collectively refunded more than ₦10 billion to customers affected by failed airtime and data purchases.

    The NCC-CBN framework is expected to take effect on March 1, 2026, upon completion of technical integrations by mobile network operators, value-added service providers and banks, and final approvals by both regulators.

    Stakeholders have been urged to meet the deadline to avoid regulatory sanctions and enhance consumer trust in digital financial and telecommunications services.

  • Insurgency: FG, US Company Plan Delivery Of 12 Attack Helicopters

    The Federal Government has concluded plans with a United States-based defence company for the delivery of 12 attack helicopters to strengthen Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations and enhance national security.

    The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Abubakar Badaru, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja while briefing State House correspondents after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.

    Badaru said the acquisition formed part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to modernise the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and improve operational capacity in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crimes across the country.

    According to him, the helicopters, which are expected to be delivered in batches, will significantly boost air support for ground troops, particularly in difficult terrains where insurgents operate.

    “The Federal Government, in collaboration with a reputable defence company in the United States, has concluded arrangements for the delivery of 12 attack helicopters to Nigeria.

    “These platforms will enhance air superiority, improve intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and provide close air support to our troops engaged in counter-insurgency operations,” the minister said.

    Badaru noted that the procurement process complied with all relevant regulations and international best practices, adding that Nigerian pilots and technicians would undergo specialised training to ensure effective deployment and maintenance of the aircraft.

    He explained that the helicopters would be deployed strategically across operational theatres in the North-East, North-West and other flashpoints, based on security assessments by the military high command.

    The minister further said President Tinubu had reiterated his commitment to equipping the armed forces with modern hardware and ensuring the welfare of personnel, as part of efforts to restore peace and stability nationwide.

    He added that the government was also strengthening collaboration with international partners to tackle cross-border security challenges and disrupt the supply chains of insurgent groups.

    Nigeria has, in recent years, invested heavily in military hardware, including fighter jets, armoured vehicles and naval assets, to confront insurgency led by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), as well as rising banditry and other security threats in parts of the country.

    Security experts believe that enhanced air power remains critical to degrading insurgents’ operational capabilities and protecting civilian populations in affected communities.

  • Customers To Receive Refund Of Failed Airtime, Data Purchases Within 30 Seconds

    The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed telecommunications operators in the country to ensure that customers receive automatic refunds for failed airtime and data purchases within 30 seconds.

    The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja while addressing journalists on the commission’s latest consumer protection measures in the telecommunications sector.

    Maida said the directive was part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Quality of Service (QoS) delivery and protect subscribers from losses arising from failed electronic transactions.

    “The commission has mandated all mobile network operators to ensure that any failed airtime or data purchase transaction is automatically reversed within 30 seconds without the subscriber having to lodge a complaint,” he said.

    He explained that the policy would apply to transactions conducted through Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD), mobile apps, bank platforms and other electronic channels used for airtime and data purchases.

    According to him, the commission observed an increase in complaints from subscribers over delayed or non-refunded failed transactions, especially during network congestion or system downtime.

    “We recognise that subscribers have, for a long time, expressed frustration over delays in refunds for failed transactions. This new directive is aimed at restoring confidence and ensuring fairness in service delivery,” Maida said.

    The NCC boss warned that any operator found violating the directive would face sanctions in line with the provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act.

    He added that the commission had upgraded its monitoring systems to track compliance in real time and ensure that refunds were processed within the stipulated time frame.

    Maida also urged subscribers to report any operator that fails to comply with the directive through the NCC Consumer Portal, toll-free line 622, or other official complaint channels.

    “Consumer satisfaction remains a priority for the commission. We will continue to introduce measures that promote transparency, accountability and improved service quality across the telecommunications industry,” he said.

    The EVC further assured Nigerians that the commission was working closely with operators to address network challenges that often result in transaction failures.

    He advised telecom subscribers to ensure they carry out transactions on stable networks and keep records of their transactions for reference where necessary.

    The directive is expected to take immediate effect nationwide.

  • Defence Headquarters Renames Armed Forces Remembrance Day

    The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced the renaming of the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day to Armed Forces Remembrance and Veterans Day, in a move aimed at giving broader recognition to the sacrifices of serving and retired military personnel.

    The Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.

    Gusau explained that the renaming was approved by the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to reflect the growing importance of honouring not only fallen heroes but also veterans who are alive and have rendered meritorious service to the nation.

    According to him, the new name underscores the commitment of the military to acknowledge the courage, resilience and lifelong sacrifices of officers and soldiers who have served Nigeria in various capacities, including peacekeeping operations, internal security duties and conventional warfare.

    “The Armed Forces Remembrance and Veterans Day is designed to honour our fallen heroes as well as appreciate our veterans who are still alive and have contributed immensely to the defence and unity of our country,” Gusau said.

    He noted that the annual event, traditionally marked on Jan. 15, would continue to feature activities such as wreath-laying ceremonies, parades and prayers across the country, while placing greater emphasis on veteran welfare and recognition.

    The defence spokesman added that the change aligned Nigeria with global best practices, where veterans are formally celebrated for their service and sacrifices long after retirement.

    Gusau assured that the Defence Headquarters remained committed to improving the welfare of serving personnel, families of fallen heroes and military veterans through sustained policy support and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

    He urged Nigerians to continue to support the Armed Forces and to use the remembrance period to reflect on the price paid for the country’s peace, unity and sovereignty.

    Armed Forces Remembrance Day is observed annually to commemorate members of the Nigerian Armed Forces who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peacekeeping missions and ongoing internal security operations.

  • Two Killed, Several Injured In Benue Cult Clash

    Two persons were confirmed dead while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries following a clash between rival cult groups in parts of Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

    The incident, which occurred late Wednesday night, reportedly involved members of two rival cult groups who engaged in a violent confrontation that led to panic among residents of the affected areas.

    An eyewitness, who spoke to the sources on condition of anonymity, said the clash started after a disagreement between members of the groups at a popular relaxation spot and later escalated into a full-blown street fight.

    “The situation got out of hand very quickly. They started attacking one another with dangerous weapons, including cutlasses and bottles, while residents ran for safety,” the eyewitness said.

    Another resident said the violence spread to nearby streets, forcing shop owners and motorists to abandon their businesses and vehicles to avoid being caught in the crossfire.

    Confirming the incident, the Benue State Police Command said it had restored normalcy in the area and commenced investigation to identify and arrest those responsible.

    The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, SP Catherine Anene, told sources that police operatives were swiftly deployed to the scene following a distress call.

    “Two persons lost their lives during the clash, while several others sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at different hospitals,” Anene said.

    She added that no arrest had been made as at the time of filing this report, but assured that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators.

    The police spokesperson warned criminal elements to desist from activities capable of disrupting public peace, stressing that the command would not tolerate cult-related violence in the state.

    Anene also urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could aid the investigation.

    Meanwhile, the Benue State Government has condemned the incident, describing it as senseless and avoidable.

    A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Tersoo Kula, expressed the government’s sympathy to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

    The government reiterated its commitment to strengthening security and combating cultism and other forms of criminality across the state.

    Cult-related violence has remained a recurring challenge in some parts of Makurdi and other urban centres in Benue, often resulting in loss of lives and destruction of property.

  • NYSC Warns Institutions Against Fraudulent Graduate Mobilisation

    The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has warned tertiary institutions across the country against engaging in fraudulent mobilisation of graduates, stressing that the Scheme would impose sanctions on any institution found violating established guidelines.

    The Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, issued the warning on Wednesday in Abuja at the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Pre-Mobilisation Workshop for Student Affairs Officers and other key stakeholders involved in the mobilisation of Prospective Corps Members (PCMs).

    Nafiu said the Scheme had observed persistent cases of data irregularities, including the uploading of unqualified graduates, falsification of academic records and other sharp practices that undermine the credibility of the mobilisation process.

    According to him, such practices not only distort the integrity of national service but also pose serious administrative and security challenges during orientation and deployment.

    “The NYSC will not condone any form of manipulation of graduate data. Institutions must ensure that only eligible graduates are uploaded for mobilisation in strict compliance with NYSC guidelines,” the director-general said.

    He urged heads of Corps Producing Institutions (CPIs) to strengthen internal verification mechanisms and provide effective supervision over their mobilisation officers to prevent errors and deliberate abuses.

    Nafiu emphasised that the mobilisation process is a shared responsibility between the NYSC and tertiary institutions, adding that negligence or compromise on the part of any institution would attract appropriate sanctions.

    He further called for continuous training of Student Affairs Officers to enable them to keep pace with evolving procedures and technological requirements in the mobilisation value chain.

    Also speaking at the workshop, the Director, Corps Mobilisation Department, Mrs Rachel Idaewor, stressed the need for accuracy and transparency in the submission of graduates’ data.

    Idaewor said discrepancies in records often result in avoidable delays, exclusion of genuine graduates and administrative bottlenecks during orientation camps.

    She appealed to institutions to ensure timely reconciliation of students’ academic records with relevant regulatory agencies, noting that collaboration among stakeholders remained critical to the success of the Scheme.

    The workshop brought together representatives of universities, polytechnics and colleges of education, as well as officials from regulatory bodies, to review challenges and reinforce best practices in the mobilisation of corps members.

    The NYSC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the national service programme and ensuring that mobilisation exercises are conducted in line with due process and national interest.

  • 2027: EFCC Warns Politicians Against Discrediting Anti-graft Agency

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned politicians and political actors against attempts to discredit the commission ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying such actions could undermine Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight.

    The Chairman of the EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede, issued the warning on Thursday in Abuja while addressing journalists after a strategic meeting with senior officials of the commission.

    Olukoyede said the commission had observed growing efforts by some politically exposed persons to paint the EFCC as partisan, particularly as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

    “Let me state clearly that the EFCC is not, and will never be, a political organisation. Our mandate is purely to investigate and prosecute economic and financial crimes, irrespective of political affiliation,” he said.

    He stressed that the commission would not be distracted by propaganda, blackmail, or intimidation aimed at weakening its operations.

    According to him, politicians who engage in corrupt practices should be prepared to face the law rather than resort to smear campaigns against the anti-graft agency.

    “Those who have questions to answer should present themselves and defend their actions within the confines of the law. Attempts to discredit the EFCC will not stop investigations or prosecutions,” Olukoyede said.

    The EFCC boss noted that corruption posed a serious threat to national development, democracy, and public trust, adding that the commission had a constitutional responsibility to protect public resources.

    He assured Nigerians that the EFCC would continue to act professionally, transparently, and without fear or favour before, during, and after the 2027 elections.

    “We are committed to doing our work with integrity. No individual is above the law, and no amount of pressure will force the commission to compromise its mandate,” he added.

    Olukoyede also called on political parties, civil society organisations, and the media to support the anti-corruption war by promoting accountability and resisting misinformation.

    He urged members of the public to report credible cases of corruption to the commission, assuring them of confidentiality and protection.

    “The fight against corruption is a collective responsibility. Nigerians must not allow selfish interests to derail the progress recorded so far,” he said.

    The EFCC chairman reaffirmed the commission’s readiness to collaborate with relevant security agencies and the judiciary to ensure that electoral-related financial crimes were effectively investigated and prosecuted.

  • International Travellers May Drive Personal Cars In Nigeria For 90 Days – Customs

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced that international travellers are allowed to bring in and drive their personal vehicles in Nigeria for a period of up to 90 days, subject to compliance with existing customs regulations.

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed this in Abuja while explaining the operational framework guiding the issuance of Temporary Importation Permits (TIP) for foreign-registered vehicles entering the country.

    Adeniyi said the arrangement was in line with international customs conventions and aimed at easing movement for tourists, expatriates and Nigerians in the diaspora visiting the country with their personal cars.

    According to him, the Temporary Importation Permit allows travellers to use their vehicles temporarily without paying full import duty, provided the vehicles are strictly for personal use and all required documentation is completed at designated ports of entry.

    “International travellers are permitted to drive their personal vehicles in Nigeria for a maximum of 90 days under the Temporary Importation Permit issued by the Nigeria Customs Service,” he said.

    The Comptroller-General stressed that vehicles imported under the TIP arrangement must not be sold, leased, hired, transferred or used for commercial purposes within the country.

    He warned that any violation of the conditions attached to the permit would be treated as a breach of customs laws and could attract severe sanctions.

    Adeniyi explained that at the expiration of the 90-day period, the vehicle must be re-exported out of Nigeria, adding that travellers who wish to keep their vehicles beyond the approved period must formally apply for an extension or comply with applicable import duty requirements.

    He noted that failure to re-export the vehicle or regularise its status within the stipulated timeframe could result in penalties, seizure of the vehicle and possible prosecution in accordance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act.

    The customs boss said the policy was designed to promote tourism, international travel and cross-border mobility, while safeguarding national revenue and security interests.

    “Our objective is to balance trade facilitation with effective control. We encourage legitimate travel and tourism, but we will not tolerate abuse of this privilege,” he said.

    Adeniyi urged international travellers to seek proper guidance from Nigeria Customs Service officers at ports of entry to ensure full compliance with the guidelines and avoid unnecessary infractions.

    He reaffirmed the commitment of the Service to transparency, professionalism and improved service delivery, noting that officers had been directed to strictly adhere to the approved procedures in handling Temporary Importation Permits.

  • Lagos State Gives Motorists Discount Window To Replace Faded Number Plates

    The Lagos State Government has approved a three-month discount window allowing motorists with faded and unreadable vehicle number plates to replace them at a reduced fee, the State Government announced on Wednesday.

    The decision, which took effect immediately, was approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as part of renewed efforts to enhance road safety, strengthen vehicle identification, and support security operations across the state.

    In a statement made available on the official Lagos State Government Facebook page, the Permanent Secretary of the Motor Vehicles Administration Agency (MVAA), Mr.
    Rasheed Muri-Okunola, explained that the rebate applies specifically to vehicle owners whose number plates have deteriorated due to weathering and prolonged use, rendering them unreadable or unclear.

    Mr. Muri-Okunola described the initiative as a “proactive and citizen-friendly intervention”, aimed at encouraging voluntary compliance and reducing the financial burden on vehicle owners.

    He noted that faded or illegible plates present challenges to law enforcement agencies and undermine crime detection efforts.

    The statement highlighted that legible number plates are critical not only for effective traffic management but also for crime investigation support and emergency response coordination.

    Motorists have been urged to take advantage of the discount by visiting the designated MVAA One-Stop Centre in Oshodi or any MVAA station across Lagos State to process the replacement.

    The government also cautioned against engaging unauthorized agents, emphasizing that all replacements must be carried out through approved government centers.

    Mr. Muri-Okunola further assured the public of seamless service delivery throughout the rebate period and reiterated the State Government’s commitment to policies that prioritise safety, convenience and accountability for residents.

  • FG Attributes NARD Dispute To Structural Issues, Not Neglect

    The Federal Government has attributed the ongoing dispute involving the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) to long-standing structural and systemic challenges within the health sector, rather than neglect or lack of commitment to workers’ welfare.

    Speaking on the matter, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said the issues raised by NARD were deeply rooted in administrative bottlenecks, funding frameworks and inter-agency coordination challenges that had accumulated over the years.

    According to him, the Federal Government recognises the concerns of resident doctors, particularly on matters relating to remuneration, training conditions and welfare, but stressed that many of the challenges predated the current administration.

    “The challenges facing resident doctors are largely structural. They are not a result of deliberate neglect by the government. These issues are embedded in the way our health institutions are organised and financed,” Pate said.

    He explained that discrepancies in salary payments, delays in allowances and training-related grievances were often linked to variations in hospital management structures, payroll systems and the autonomy exercised by teaching hospitals.

    The minister noted that some health institutions operate under different governance models, which sometimes complicate the uniform implementation of agreements reached with labour unions.

    “When agreements are reached at the federal level, implementation can be affected by institutional structures at the facility level. This is one of the key challenges we are addressing,” he added.

    Pate said the government was engaging relevant stakeholders, including hospital management boards, regulatory bodies and labour unions, to harmonise processes and address grey areas that frequently lead to disputes.

    He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to dialogue, describing it as the most effective tool for resolving industrial disagreements in the health sector.

    “We are committed to continuous engagement with NARD and other health workers’ unions. Our focus is on sustainable solutions that will strengthen the health system and improve working conditions,” the minister said.

    On concerns about possible industrial action, Pate appealed to resident doctors to exercise restraint, noting that strikes often have severe consequences for patients, particularly vulnerable groups.

    He said the government was working to improve funding efficiency, institutional accountability and workforce planning as part of broader health sector reforms.

    Also speaking, a senior official of the Ministry of Labour and Employment said conciliatory meetings were ongoing to address outstanding demands and prevent escalation of the dispute.

    The official expressed optimism that with sustained dialogue and mutual understanding, an amicable resolution would be reached.

    The Federal Government urged resident doctors to remain engaged in negotiations while reforms aimed at resolving structural challenges in the health sector continue.

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