Lagos State Government has unveiled an ambitious plan to tackle persistent electricity shortages and establish a round-the-clock power supply system, aiming to end the long-standing culture of blackouts in the commercial hub. Speaking at the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, Biodun Ogunleye said the roadmap is anchored on private-sector investment, independent power generation, smart metering and regulatory reforms. According to Channels Television, Ogunleye said the initiative is being driven by the implementation of the Lagos State Electricity Law 2024, which he described as a key step in positioning Lagos as Africa’s leading subnational electricity market. The commissioner said the state targets 95 to 100 per cent grid availability, full metering coverage and a reduction in energy losses to single digits by 2030. He said the strategy includes stronger regulatory institutions, investor-friendly policies and an expanded network of independent power producers. Ogunleye disclosed that the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission has issued 14 licences and permits to electricity operators and is expected to begin a 100 per cent metering rollout in July 2026. He also revealed plans for an AI-powered monitoring platform known as the Electric Eye of Lagos, designed to track electricity trading and power delivery in real time across the state. The state currently has 12 independent power producers under regulation, with seven already operating commercially, according to the commissioner. He added that key infrastructure projects are underway, including a 37.7-kilometre power corridor in Badagry and a new integrated energy corridor in Lekki-Epe. The government said it has also expanded solar infrastructure, deploying 42,000 smart solar streetlights across major roads. Nearly 40,000 solar-powered streetlights are already operational, while 22,000 conventional lights have been replaced. Public institutions are also benefitting. Gbagada General Hospital now receives between 21 and 22 hours of daily electricity after transformer upgrades, while renewable energy systems have been installed in 52 secondary schools and 11 primary healthcare centres. The commissioner added that Lagos is investing in cleaner transport infrastructure, with 244 vehicles converted to compressed natural gas and 17 CNG stations expected before the end of the year. Ogunleye said the broader goal is to build a resilient and sustainable energy system through strategic infrastructure investment and stronger private sector participation.

Nigeria has announced plans to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced anti-drone systems as part of a major overhaul of its military operations, according to TheCable.   The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, disclosed the development while leading a high-level delegation to Monaco to finalise discussions on the Hybrid Intelligence Shield (HIS) project.   The initiative is designed to strengthen border security, protect urban centres and improve Nigeria’s response to evolving security threats, including insurgency, banditry, piracy and oil theft.   Under the proposed system, AI-powered surveillance technology will be deployed to rapidly detect and analyse threats using smart algorithms, while anti-drone technology will be used to intercept and neutralise unmanned aerial systems that may pose security risks.   The plan also includes the establishment of national and regional command-and-control centres to enhance real-time coordination and operational response across security agencies.   Musa said the project will prioritise technology transfer and local capacity development through the creation of a military “Centre of Excellence” in Nigeria.   The Defence Ministry is also expected to work with international partners, including Marss UK Ltd, while building indigenous capacity to address internal security challenges.   Nigeria continues to face multiple security threats across different regions, prompting growing calls from security experts for the adoption of advanced technologies such as AI surveillance systems, drones and integrated intelligence platforms to support military operations, TheCable reports.

The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has assured Nigerians that persistent network disruptions affecting telecom users across the country should not continue beyond this year. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Tony Emoekpere said operators and regulators are already implementing measures to tackle recurring service failures. He said telecom operators had made commitments to regulators and that several improvement projects were already underway. According to Emoekpere, discussions are ongoing among stakeholders across the sector, including mobile network operators, infrastructure providers and service providers, to improve network quality. He said: “There have been positive things already being done, projects have already been put in place, and commitments have already been made to regulators by the Mobile Network Operator. Most in general, I don’t think these issues should surpass this year.” The assurance comes after growing complaints from subscribers over poor call quality, unstable internet service, rapid data depletion and increased tariffs. The Federal Government of Nigeria recently increased pressure on telecom companies to improve service delivery, warning that subscribers deserve better connectivity and value for money. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, said reforms had already been introduced to stabilise the telecom sector, while operators were expected to resolve ongoing service failures. Emoekpere also addressed concerns over data subscription renewals, saying unused data is not lost once users renew their plans. He explained that existing data balances are rolled over and added to newly purchased subscriptions. He added that the Nigerian Communications Commission has a dedicated consumer protection arm that handles complaints from subscribers and works with operators to resolve issues. Emoekpere said no telecom company intentionally delivers poor service, stressing that operators are equally affected by the sector’s challenges.

Nigeria’s House of Representatives has criticised the Nigerian Communications Commission over what lawmakers described as weak regulatory oversight, blaming the agency for persistently poor telecom services nationwide. The lawmakers warned that unreliable connectivity, including frequent dropped calls and slow data speeds, poses risks to lives and property, particularly during emergencies. The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Ahmadu Jaha, representing Chibok, Damboa and Gwoza Federal Constituency of Borno State. Speaking during the debate, Jaha highlighted the growing importance of telecommunications to Nigeria’s economy and daily life, noting a widening gap between subscriber expectations and actual service delivery. “Telecommunication has become a vital part of everyday life in Nigeria. It connects families, supports businesses, enhances education, and drives economic growth. However, despite its importance, the quality of service provided by many telecom companies remains unsatisfactory,” he said. Lawmakers cited recurring issues such as dropped calls, poor data speeds and failed message delivery as evidence of systemic inefficiencies in the sector. They also criticised the mismatch between rising telecom costs and the quality of services delivered. “The high cost of data and call tariffs does not match the quality of service delivered,” Jaha added, noting that unstable connections often lead to rapid data depletion and financial losses for users. Concerns were also raised over weak customer service systems, with subscribers reportedly facing delays in resolving complaints. Lawmakers said this could worsen outcomes in emergencies such as medical incidents, fires and road accidents. Supporting the motion, Deputy Minority Whip George Ozodinobi accused telecom operators of prioritising profit over service improvement, while also faulting the NCC for regulatory complacency. “It is like these companies have made enough profits in billions, and so, they don’t care about improving the network anymore. The NCC has become complacent,” he said. Nigeria’s telecom sector has grown rapidly since liberalisation in the early 2000s, expanding from fewer than one million lines to over 200 million active subscriptions. However, infrastructure development has lagged behind subscriber growth. Industry analysts attribute the poor service quality to inadequate base stations, unreliable power supply and high operating costs. Telecom operators also face challenges such as multiple taxation, vandalism of infrastructure and right-of-way constraints, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas. Despite these constraints, critics argue that the NCC has failed to enforce its Quality of Service regulations effectively, with penalties often seen as insufficient to drive compliance. The House has now called on telecom operators to invest in modern infrastructure, expand coverage to underserved areas, improve customer service and adopt fair pricing that reflects service quality. Lawmakers also directed the NCC to enforce stricter standards and hold service providers accountable, signalling a potential shift towards stronger legislative oversight. An ad hoc committee is expected to be constituted to investigate the root causes of poor telecom service delivery and recommend further legislative action.

Sub-Saharan Africa remains the world’s least connected region, with just a quarter of its population using mobile Internet, according to the latest GSMA report. The State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2025 revealed that the region also has the largest coverage gap globally, at 10 per cent. While more than three-quarters of people in North America, Europe, and East Asia are online through their mobile devices, Africa continues to struggle with low access, widening inequality, and a growing digital divide. Nigeria ranked among the top 20 countries with the largest number of people offline, with 130 million citizens still unconnected. India tops the list with a staggering 690 million people unable to access the Internet, followed by China with 240 million and Pakistan with 130 million. Other countries with high numbers of unconnected citizens include Ethiopia, Indonesia, Egypt, Congo, the United States, and Brazil. The report found that connectivity remains far lower in least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), and small island developing states (SIDS), where only a quarter to a third of the population use mobile Internet. None of these regions have recorded progress since 2021. GSMA also flagged persistent inequalities within low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). People in rural areas are still 25 per cent less likely to use mobile Internet than urban dwellers, while women remain 14 per cent less likely than men to connect. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the gender gap stands at 29 per cent, among the widest globally. Despite these challenges, mobile Internet use continues to grow globally. By the end of 2024, 4.4 billion people were using smartphones to access the Internet, with most on 4G or 5G networks. However, in Africa, six in ten users still rely on 3G devices or basic feature phones, further limiting access to the digital economy.

In recent times, the Federal Fire Service (FFS) has experienced a transformational shift that is redefining fire emergency management in Nigeria. At the heart of this renewed commitment is the visionary leadership of Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, whose strategic oversight and dedication to excellence has revitalized the institution. Under his watch, the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji, and his team have demonstrated that with the right direction, even the most complex institutions can deliver efficiently. The gains made so far are not just on paper—they are visible, measurable, and increasingly appreciated by the public. One of the most noticeable achievements is the significant improvement in the response time to fire incidents. Across major cities and even some rural communities, FFS trucks now arrive faster and better equipped to tackle emergencies. This is a direct result of strategic investments, staff training, and logistical upgrades. A silent but revolutionary improvement has taken place in the way fire officers communicate. The launch of modern Walkie-Talkie systems has significantly enhanced coordination and real-time responses. Communication gaps, which previously led to delays and confusion, are rapidly closing. Recognizing that effective service delivery starts with capable personnel, the Ministry and the FFS leadership have begun the construction of a world-class Fire Academy. This institution will train a new generation of fire officers in modern firefighting, safety protocols, and emerging technologies. Equally commendable is the commissioning of advanced firefighting vehicles. These vehicles are fitted with modern safety tools and tailored for both urban and difficult terrains. From state capitals to smaller towns, citizens are seeing new trucks on standby and on duty. Behind every successful rescue is a motivated fire officer. The leadership has also made deliberate strides in improving staff welfare, ranging from training to promotions, housing, and recognition of outstanding service. What’s most telling about the current transformation in the Federal Fire Service is how Nigerians are reacting. Across social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), citizens are openly acknowledging the change, offering commendations that reflect not just approval but renewed trust. “The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has given the Federal Fire Service a new facelift. The #FFS has experienced a tremendous change since his appointment, from buying trucks to handheld radios to quick response and so on,”_ said @JaniceBaby23, who, like many Nigerians, has observed the shift firsthand. Similarly, @Afooolarry praised the leadership, saying, _“Kudos to the Hon. Olubumi Tunji-Ojo BTO, CG Engr Abdulganiyu Jaji, and leadership of #FFS for the strides made — faster emergency response, launch of the Walkie-Talkie system, fire academy project underway, new fire trucks commissioned, and improved staff welfare.”_ That same spirit of approval was echoed by @BadmusFranca, who noted, _“The federal fire service has enhanced its operations under the leadership of the Hon. Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the CC, #FFS, Engr. Jaji with the introduction of walkie-talkie phones for improved communication, the establishment of a new fire academy, the commissioning of new fire vehicles, and enhanced staff welfare. We commend these efforts and call for continued improvements to safeguard lives and properties.” Reflecting on how far the agency has come, @eniolaofLagos tweeted, “For so long, the Federal Fire Service, #FFS, seemed non-functional, but for another magic wand of the #RenewedHope under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has taken the #FirePrevention game to another level. A good job by the CG.” Speaking to the operational capacity and training, @Omobaba_saki shared, “The #FFS under the leadership of Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and CG Engr. AbdulGaniyu Jaji has been able to respond rapidly to fire incidents with state of the art fire service trucks, with modern facilities to help combat fire. Also the Federal Fire Service to get World Class Academy. This will enable them train men and women of the fire service in modern ways and introduce them to new technologies and also fire service safety precautions to observe when there is an incident.” And in a more policy-forward tone, @AbuAbdulHameed7 tweeted, “Under the leadership of CG FFS Engr. Jaji and HMI Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Federal Fire Service has witnessed transformative reforms including deployment of new response vehicles, reduced emergency response time, upgrade of the National Fire Academy, staff promotions, and structural expansion plans. With the proposed Federal Fire & Rescue Service Bill, the service has the potential to become a self-sufficient, revenue-generating institution capable of massive employment.” These real, unfiltered statements demonstrate just how much progress has been made—and how well it is being received by the very people the agency was established to protect. While we celebrate these achievements, it is important to remember that this must be the beginning, not the peak. Fire outbreaks remain a significant risk in homes, markets, schools, and industries across Nigeria, especially during the harmattan and festive seasons, as well as power surges. The Federal Fire Service must continue to expand its reach to underserved regions, intensify fire safety education, improve partnerships with state and local authorities, and sustain the momentum of innovation. The proposed Fire & Rescue Service Bill must also receive wide support to ensure the agency becomes more autonomous, responsive, and accountable. In my opinion, the leadership of Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and CG Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji has ushered in a new era of excellence within the Federal Fire Service. From faster response times to technology upgrades, training investments, and staff motivation, the Service is clearly undergoing a transformation rooted in vision, discipline, and action. But there is still work to be done. The FFS must build on these foundations and rise to meet even greater expectations. Nigerians are not just hopeful, they are watching. Now more than ever, we must keep the fire of progress burning.