Nigeria News (Standard)
MTN CEO Karl Toriola Unveils 6 Key Tips to Help Lagosians Save Data Amid Rising Internet Costs
Telecoms boss highlights practical steps at Lagos event as Nigerians grapple with soaring data prices and quick bundle depletion
Telecoms boss highlights practical steps at Lagos event as Nigerians grapple with soaring data prices and quick bundle depletion
MTN Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, has outlined six practical strategies for Nigerians to make their mobile data subscriptions last longer, addressing concerns over the high rate at which internet bundles are depleted. Speaking during the ‘Data on Trial’ event held in Lagos on Friday, Toriola emphasised that understanding one’s data usage patterns is the first step towards curbing unnecessary spending on mobile internet.
According to Toriola, many subscribers lose significant portions of their bundles to background app activity and automatic updates. Michael Ndukwe, Senior Core Network Implementation Engineer at MTN Nigeria, added that apps such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube are among the main culprits, often consuming large volumes of data even when not actively in use. Ndukwe advised users to regularly check their phone’s data usage settings and limit background activity for non-essential applications.
With mobile internet now essential for work, business and communication across Nigeria, the rising cost of data has become a pressing issue for millions. Telecom sector observers note that many Nigerians believe their data finishes unusually fast, with some suspecting unfair practices by service providers. However, Toriola explained that daily habits such as streaming high-definition videos or leaving auto-play enabled on social media platforms are often responsible for rapid data depletion.
He recommended six key measures: monitor which apps consume the most data; restrict background data on non-critical apps; use Wi-Fi whenever possible; control video quality settings on streaming and social media apps; update applications only over Wi-Fi; and download content for offline use. “Small changes like switching off auto-play or using ‘data saver’ mode can make a big difference,” Ndukwe said during his presentation.
Industry experts have welcomed MTN’s advice but also called for improved transparency from all telecom operators regarding bundle expiration rates. Some consumer groups continue to urge the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to enforce stricter regulations on data billing. As more Nigerians rely on mobile internet for daily activities, efficient usage remains crucial until broader reforms address underlying cost drivers in the telecom sector.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/mtn-ceo-karl-toriola-tips-data-last-longer-2026060623331209439
Nigeria News (Standard)
Sultan, Catholic Bishops Demand Immediate Action on Worsening Insecurity Nationwide
Religious leaders call on federal government to prioritise citizen safety as violent attacks rise across states
Religious leaders call on federal government to prioritise citizen safety as violent attacks rise across states
Prominent religious figures including the Sultan of Sokoto and senior Catholic bishops have called for urgent intervention by the federal government to address Nigeria’s escalating insecurity. The appeal was made on Wednesday, 17 June, amid increasing reports of kidnappings, attacks, and unrest in several states across the country.
The Sultan of Sokoto, who is the spiritual leader of Nigerian Muslims, joined voices with Catholic bishops to highlight the growing threat posed by armed groups and criminal gangs. Their joint statement emphasised that communities in both urban and rural areas are now living in fear as incidents of abduction, armed robbery, and violence continue unabated.
Nigeria has faced persistent security challenges over the past decade, including Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, and separatist agitation in the South-East. Recent months have seen a surge in attacks targeting civilians, with many Nigerians criticising what they describe as a slow or inadequate response from authorities. The latest call from religious leaders reflects rising public anxiety and frustration over the government’s ability to ensure safety for all citizens.
While the federal government has repeatedly pledged to strengthen security operations and deploy more resources to affected regions, critics say progress remains slow. The Sultan and Catholic bishops urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take concrete steps beyond promises. “It is time for decisive action that will restore confidence among Nigerians,” they said in their statement.
Security analysts note that collaboration between religious leaders could add momentum to ongoing advocacy for reforms in policing and intelligence gathering. As pressure mounts on government officials, many Nigerians are looking towards concrete policy measures and improved coordination among security agencies to stem the tide of violence.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Belgium, Japan Secure Surprise Wins as Volleyball Nations League Betting Odds Shift in Lagos
Early upsets force bookmakers to adjust odds, with mid-tier nations gaining ground and favourites facing fresh scrutiny
Early upsets force bookmakers to adjust odds, with mid-tier nations gaining ground and favourites facing fresh scrutiny
Unexpected results in the opening week of the Volleyball Nations League have seen betting markets in Lagos and across Nigeria recalibrate odds, after Belgium, Japan and Turkey delivered surprise victories against traditionally dominant teams. The early phase of the tournament, which began last week, has already disrupted pre-tournament predictions among volleyball enthusiasts and punters alike.
Belgium marked their return to the competition with a 3-1 win over Bulgaria—an outcome few analysts foresaw. The match took place on the first day of fixtures, immediately alerting bookmakers to potential shifts in team form. In another key encounter, France narrowly defeated Italy 3-2 after a challenging game that saw both sides struggle for dominance. Meanwhile, Japan’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Poland demonstrated the increasing competitiveness of this year’s league. Turkey also made headlines by defeating France 3-0, despite having lost earlier to the United States.
These unexpected results have led to swift reactions from betting agencies operating within Nigeria’s growing sports betting sector. According to market analysts, odds on mid-tier nations such as Belgium and Turkey have shortened considerably since the tournament began. Traditional favourites like France and Italy still receive strong backing from punters, but their inconsistent performances have raised questions about their prospects going forward.
Sports analyst Chinedu Okeke commented on Tuesday that “the early rounds are always unpredictable but this year has shown even more volatility than usual,” noting that many Nigerians are now placing bets on underdog teams in anticipation of further surprises. Betting operators have advised customers to monitor team performance closely before making further wagers.
The tournament continues this week with more fixtures expected to test the resilience of both established powers and emerging contenders. Observers say the evolving dynamics could see even more shifts in betting patterns as at next round, especially if upsets persist. Volleyball fans across Nigeria are watching closely as teams seek to build momentum amid a rapidly changing competitive landscape.
Source: https://guardian.ng/sport/volleyball-nations-league-teams-creating-early-betting-value-in-2026/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Tinubu Approves 1,000 Forest Guards for Katsina to Tackle Insecurity
Deployment targets rising bandit attacks in North-West state; local authorities welcome move, urge community cooperation
Deployment targets rising bandit attacks in North-West state; local authorities welcome move, urge community cooperation
President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment and deployment of 1,000 forest guards in Katsina State to strengthen security operations amid ongoing attacks by armed groups. The initiative, announced on Wednesday, aims to curb banditry and restore safety in rural areas across the North-Western state.
The decision follows persistent incidents of kidnapping and violence in Katsina, which have displaced thousands and disrupted agricultural activities. According to local officials, the newly recruited forest guards will work alongside existing security agencies to monitor forests and difficult terrains often used as hideouts by criminal elements.
Katsina State has been at the centre of North-West security concerns, with frequent reports of villages being raided and communities living under threat. The deployment is expected to boost confidence among residents and support ongoing efforts by the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, and other agencies operating in the region.
A senior state government official welcomed the presidential approval and called on communities to cooperate fully with the new forest guard corps. “We believe this measure will help secure our forests and improve intelligence gathering,” he said during a briefing in Katsina on Wednesday.
No official timeline for the commencement of training or deployment was provided as at press time. Authorities say further details regarding selection criteria, operational command structure, and funding will be released soon. Security experts argue that sustained support and proper equipping of personnel will be crucial for the success of this intervention.
