1.The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has confirmed that the deadline for the linkage of Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards to National Identification Numbers (NIN) remains unchanged, with no extension beyond February 28, 2024. Consequently, telecommunication companies have been instructed to deactivate 12 million lines that are not linked to their owners’ NINs after the deadline.
2. President Bola Tinubu, addressing Nigerians on Wednesday, urged for patience amidst prevailing economic challenges, assuring citizens of better days ahead. He acknowledged and took responsibility for the difficulties resulting from government policies.
3. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, revealed on Wednesday a 50% reduction in the importation of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) into Nigeria since the removal of subsidy on the commodity.
4. The military Joint Task Force, North-West Operation Hadarin Daji, announced on Wednesday the neutralization of numerous bandits and the rescue of eight kidnapped victims in Zamfara State, according to Lt. Col. Suleiman Omale, Information Officer of Operation Hadarin Daji.
5. Troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, uncovered over 40 crude oil wells during a sweep-and-clear operation in Rumuekpe community, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, bolstering efforts against illegal oil bunkering and theft.
6. Edo State Police Command apprehended five suspected cultists for engaging in a street fight in Edo State. The suspects, alleged members of the Eiye Confraternity, reportedly clashed over failure to pay monthly dues and attend meetings.
7. Two Binance executives have been detained at the behest of National Security Adviser, NSA Nuhu Ribadu, over alleged involvement in foreign exchange manipulations. The Federal Government obtained a court warrant to detain the individuals pending further investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
8. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to sign an Executive Order aimed at significantly reducing the cost of drugs and pharmaceutical products in the country, as disclosed by Health and Social Welfare Minister, Muhammed Pate, during the second edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing Series in Abuja.
9. Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) apologized to subscribers for recent service disruptions attributed to severe fibre cuts by contractors, according to the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria, ALTON.
10. The Federal Government assured that the implementation of the Oronsaye Report would not lead to job losses. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reiterated this during the fourth edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing Series in Abuja.
