₦airaland Forum

MTN has announced its intention to deactivate its 3G network by 31 December 2025, advancing its original timeline by one year. This decision follows a pilot project conducted in Cape Town, which aimed to facilitate the migration of customers from 3G services within a designated area.

In a communication directed to customers involved in the pilot, MTN referenced a statement from the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies in September 2022, which expressed the intention to phase out both 2G and 3G networks.

While this transition may affect customers, MTN is dedicated to ensuring that the impact is minimized. Therefore, the company has adopted a phased approach to the migration process.

In January 2024, MTN informed the impacted customers about the pilot project, emphasizing that once the pilot phase concludes, an assessment will be undertaken before implementing a broader 3G migration plan.

Simultaneously, MTN is evaluating potential timelines for transitioning users from the 2G network, with further communications regarding this process to be provided in due course.

When prompted for an update on the 3G switch-off pilot, MTN confirmed its success and reiterated its objective to complete the transition from legacy technologies by the end of the specified year.

A spokesperson stated that MTN is actively migrating customers from the outdated 2G and 3G networks to more advanced 4G and 5G technologies to enhance customer experience and facilitate continued investment in efficient, modern networks.

The pilot conducted in 2024 included various locations in Cape Town, specifically Durbanville, Greater Melkbosstrand, and the Milnerton Bloubergstrand areas.

The purpose of this pilot was to evaluate the migration process and optimize future rollouts. Following its successful completion, MTN is implementing a phased migration strategy, with a full transition intended by 31 December 2025. Throughout this transition, the company remains committed to maintaining excellent connectivity and minimizing disruptions for customers.

While prior communications minister Mondli Gungubele had set deadlines for South Africa's transition away from 2G and 3G, these deadlines have been suspended pending further industry consultations. Current communications minister Solly Malatsi recently informed Parliament that the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) is conducting an economic impact assessment to mitigate the effects of the switch-off. This assessment will gather input from private sector stakeholders and identify regions within the country that still lack adequate 4G and 5G coverage, as residents in these areas might face significant challenges.

Malatsi emphasized that South Africa will only consider deactivating legacy networks once the assessment is completed. One significant challenge in discontinuing 2G and 3G services in South Africa lies in the relatively high costs associated with 4G and 5G devices. Although Vodacom and MTN have made strides to address this issue by launching affordable 4G and 5G devices, they advocate for a collaborative approach with the government, discouraging the imposition of arbitrary deadlines for legacy network deactivation.

Vodacom introduced the Mobicel S4, a 4G-enabled cloud-based phone, in September 2024 at a competitive price, promoting it as a "smartphone lite" option. An assessment by MyBroadband indicated that the device offers impressive functionality relative to its price point. Concurrently, MTN launched the Icon 5G in November 2024, providing an affordable entry-level 5G smartphone. Priced at R2,499, the Icon 5G features a 6.6-inch display, 128GB of storage, a 50MP primary rear camera, and a 5,000mAh battery.

In alignment with these developments, Minister Malatsi expressed an interest in working with the National Treasury to reduce the costs associated with 4G and 5G smartphones by eliminating ad valorem taxes on entry-level devices. He clarified that while the removal of all luxury goods taxes on smart devices is not being proposed, establishing a specific threshold would be beneficial.

Source: https://www.circlesontv.com/2025/02/mtn-to-shutdown-3G-services-by-december-31-2025.html?m=1

The Benue State Government, under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia, has begun the construction of the first flyover at Wurukum in Makurdi, the state capital under a Catholic priest administration.

The construction of the flyover marks a historic milestone as the first of its kind since the establishment of Benue State on February 3, 1976. The state has never previously possessed an underpass or a flyover. This achievement has been made possible under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia's administration.

Read full: https://www.circlesontv.com/2025/02/benue-state-launches-construction-of-its-inaugural-flyover-at-wurukum-in-makurdi-photos.html?m=1

Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer Davido has achieved a noteworthy milestone by establishing a new record for the most-watched TikTok live stream in Africa, in collaboration with the prominent teenage TikTok personality, Peller.

Davido is recognized as one of the most influential Afrobeats artists of the 21st century, significantly contributing to the global popularization of the genre.

The live stream, which was hosted by content creator Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, attracted an impressive total of 389,800 viewers, with a peak concurrent viewership of 164,000 individuals.

This remarkable engagement highlights Davido’s considerable influence and popularity among audiences across the continent.

The live stream featured Peller alongside other notable TikTok personalities, including Jarvis and Jo Blaq, collectively creating an experience akin to a virtual concert.

During the stream, Peller expressed his excitement upon receiving an extravagant wristwatch from Davido, humorously feigning faintness in response to the luxurious gift.

https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/10/davido-and-peller-set-a-new-record-for-africa-s-most-watched-tiktok-live-stream.html?m=1

Chelsea legend Didier Drogba has identified five former and current players from the club with whom he wishes he had the opportunity to play.

Among those mentioned is Reece James, the current captain at Stamford Bridge.

In an interview with Give Me Sports, Drogba remarked, “For me, it was also a great experience. I wish I had been on the pitch with Romelu Lukaku, Antonio Rudiger, N’Golo Kante, Mason Mount, Reece James, and others.

Yes, it is a regret.”

Drogba’s tenure at Chelsea spanned two periods, from 2004 to 2012 and again from 2014 to 2015.

The former Ivorian forward achieved significant success as a striker for the club, amassing 164 goals and providing 88 assists across 381 appearances.

Didier Yves Drogba Tébily, born on 11 March 1978, is now a retired Ivorian professional footballer who played as a striker at Chelsea.

He is recognized as the all-time top scorer and former captain of the Ivory Coast national team. Drogba enjoyed a distinguished career at Chelsea Football Club, where he is the highest-scoring foreign player and ranks fourth on the club’s all-time goal-scoring list.

He secured four Premier League titles and four FA Cup titles during his tenure and was instrumental in winning the UEFA Champions League in the 2011-2012 season.

Notably, Drogba played a pivotal role in leading Chelsea to its first league title in 50 years in 2004, his inaugural year with the club. His contributions to Chelsea earned him the distinction of being named the club's greatest player in a fan poll conducted by Chelsea Magazine in 2012.

In 2020, he was selected for inclusion in the Chelsea Team of the Decade for 2010-2020. Widely regarded as one of the greatest African players in history, Drogba is celebrated for his remarkable pace, aerial prowess, and powerful, precise goal-scoring ability.

He was honored as the African Footballer of the Year on two occasions, specifically in 2006 and 2009.

https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/10/unfulfilled-dream-chelsea-legend-didier-drogba-names-five-players-he-regrets-not-playing-with.html

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Bemsen Mnyim, has been suspended by the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, for his involvement in the lawsuit challenging the legality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) without prior notification to the governor.

The Supreme Court recently heard a case filed by 19 states challenging the constitutionality of the laws establishing the EFCC.

However, three of the 19 states, namely Anambra, Adamawa, and Ebonyi, have reportedly withdrawn from the suit. Anambra's Attorney General, Prof Sylvia Ifemeje, informed the court of the state's withdrawal on October 20, and Ebonyi's counterpart, Ikenna Nwidagu, also submitted a notice of withdrawal dated October 21.

Governor Alia expressed surprise at the state's decision to challenge the legality of the anti-corruption agency and subsequently ordered the suspension of the attorney general.

The governor's spokesperson, Kula Tersoo, confirmed the suspension, stating that it was due to Mnyim's unilateral decision to join the suit without informing the governor.

Governor Alia emphasized the need for due consultations and proper briefing before taking action, especially on sensitive matters such as this.

The governor underscored the administration's commitment to holding embezzlers accountable and highlighted the collaboration with the EFCC the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in this endeavor.

Governor Alia expressed his disapproval of challenging these watchdogs without his permission and emphasized that Mnyim had acted without authorization, leading to his indefinite suspension pending a satisfactory explanation of his actions.

https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/10/benue-state-governor-hyacinth-alia-suspends-attorney-general-bemsen-mnyim-over-efcc-legality-suit.html

On October 20, a helicopter crash resulted in the tragic deaths of four passengers, including a child, in Houston, a major city in the southern United States.

The accident also led to the destruction of a radio transmission tower.

According to Houston police chief Noe Diaz, the private aircraft either collided with a cable or struck the tower directly.

Fortunately, nobody on the ground sustained injuries. Investigations are underway to determine the root cause of the accident.

Television footage depicted burning debris at the crash site, and additional videos, potentially from CCTV cameras, illustrated the helicopter's approach to the tower followed by an eruption of flames.

Mayor John Whitmire noted that the crash occurred in proximity to a residential area and a highly flammable butane tank. He expressed gratitude that the situation was not more severe.

Whitmire mentioned that firefighters promptly responded to a loud explosion, witnessing a visible fireball in the air.

The helicopter had departed from an airfield less than 18 miles (30 kilometers) from the crash location, as confirmed by authorities.

Houston, situated in the state of Texas, ranks as the fourth-largest city in the United States with a population of 2.3 million. These events were reported by CIRCLESON TELEVISION.

https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/10/tragedy-helicopter-crashes-into-radio-tower-in-houston-claims-four-lives.html

Dr. Alexandra Bastiany, born to Haitian parents in Montreal, has achieved a significant milestone as the first Black woman interventional cardiologist in Canada.

Initially aspiring to pursue a career in general surgery, Bastiany discovered her passion for interventional cardiology during her first year of medical school, particularly its non-invasive approaches to treating heart blockages.

Her 15-year journey included academic pursuits at the University of Montreal and a fellowship at the University of Alberta, amidst formidable challenges, including experiences of racial discrimination and discouragement from her mentors.

Despite adversities, she persevered with the unwavering support of mentors and her resolute determination to defy stereotypes.

Dr. Bastiany has emerged as a proponent of culturally sensitive care and an advocate for addressing racial biases in the field of medicine.

In offering guidance to inspire future Black women in healthcare, Alexandra Bastiany advises: “History is very important; it’s good to know to go forward, but we should focus on what we can do to make the future of Black people in this country better.”

Expressing her gratitude for being featured in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s statement on Black History Month, Dr. Alexandra Bastiany acknowledged that recognizing her achievements is a significant endeavor but expressed genuine pride in her accomplishments.

Dr. Bastiany stated, “I am definitely proud and happy. I’m happy forever who looks like me. Let’s just do something more and make sure that everybody who looks like me has an equal chance to become what they want to become because currently, that’s not the case.”

https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/10/breaking-barriers-alexandra-bastiany-makes-history-as-canada-first-black-interventional-cardiologist.html

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has expressed that people opposing him are indirectly causing harm to their interests.
He made these remarks while addressing his supporters and members of his faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state on Saturday.

It has been noted that Wike has been engaged in a conflict with Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of the state, for reasons that are not entirely clear.

Wike emphasized, "Those who continually oppose me are essentially working against their own best interests. It is important to recognize that this is just the beginning. We possess the necessary capability to navigate these challenges. Contrary to their efforts, we will engage in constructive dialogue and pursue effective strategies for the betterment of Rivers State. The current approach is ineffective and will not yield the desired outcomes."

Wike has affirmed his commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) while simultaneously collaborating with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and potentially serving as a Minister in Bola Tinubu's administration.

https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/10/rivers-state-battle-real-fight-awaits-nyesom-wike-warns-siminalayi-fubara-and-others.html

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja following a two-week working leave in the United Kingdom and Paris.

His arrival at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at around 7:20 pm was marked by the presence of senior members of his administration.

The President embarked on the two-week working vacation on Wednesday, October 2, as part of his annual leave, as stated by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

On October 11, President Tinubu departed the UK for Paris, France, for an undisclosed engagement, confirmed by his Senior Special Assistant on Political and Other Matters, Ibrahim Kabir Masari.

Notable figures present to receive the President included the Lagos Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; ministers Wale Edun (Finance) and Abubakar Atiku Bagudu (Budget and Economic Planning); Nuhu Ribadu (National Security Adviser); and Abdullahi Ganduje (national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC).

President Tinubu is set to resume duties at the presidency on Monday.

https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/10/just-in-president-bola-tinubu-jet-back-nigeria-after-a-two-week-leave-to-uk-and-paris.html

The ruling Labour Party (LP) in Abia State recently experienced a distressing event as two prominent stakeholders were abducted during a party meeting held at a hotel in Aba, the state's commercial hub.

The perpetrators, who were heavily armed and concealed their identities, asserted that they were acting under authoritative instructions, providing no further elucidation.

Among the people taken hostage were Ceekay Igara, the Deputy National Chairman, and Prince G. O. Ndubueze, the Acting State Chairman. Notably, Ndubueze was forcibly taken away in an unmarked vehicle, prompting growing apprehension.

This incident prompted attendees of the Labour Party meeting to express their solidarity through vocal protests, condemning the abductions as detrimental to the welfare of the people and highlighting the concerning state of security within the region.

https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/10/chaos-in-aba-gunmen-storm-labour-party-meeting-abduct-key-chieftains.html

The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has urged the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to re-evaluate its existing monetary and fiscal policies, citing their ineffectiveness.

Governor Mohammed articulated this viewpoint during the launch of the Nigeria Development Update in Abuja on Thursday. He emphasized the imperative for a flexible approach, underlining the pressing need for change in light of the escalating hardships experienced nationwide.

The governor drew attention to the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians, cautioning that widespread hunger and economic adversity have generated a precarious environment.

He disclosed that even public officials are encountering the risk of public backlash from disillusioned citizens.

Governor Mohammed additionally implored the federal government to formulate more potent economic strategies, underscoring the inadequacy of the current financial resources in mitigating the pervasive hunger.

"In the initial stages of the reforms, the sub-national entities rallied behind the President. However, the macroeconomic policies contributing to inflation demand reconsideration. The prevailing hunger and suffering necessitate urgent action, and the populace is not reaping the benefits of these reforms.

"What measures are being implemented to alleviate hunger? We must proactively support the people.

"The purchasing power of the populace has substantially diminished.

"My esteemed colleague Cardoso (CBN governor), these policies are proving ineffective and require reassessment. Let us refrain from resorting to coercive tactics," the governor articulated.

https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/10/bauchi-state-governor-bala-mohammed-criticizes-president-tinubu-over-ineffective-reform-strategies.html

During the House of Representatives plenary session on Thursday, a bill advocating for the establishment of Ogoja State successfully passed its second reading.

The bill, which is being Sponsored by Godwin Offiono and three others, the proposed constitution alteration bill aims to modify the 1999 Constitution to accommodate an additional state in the South-south region.

Mr. Offiono emphasized that the bill's purpose lies in promoting equity. If enacted, this bill would increase the number of states in the South-south region to seven.

The bill encountered no opposition during its second reading and has been referred to the House Committee on Constitution Review.

https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/10/breaking-news-bill-for-the-creation-of-ogoja-state-advances-to-second-reading-in-the-house-of-representatives.html

Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, has been sentenced to six months in jail by Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos.

The sentence was handed out on Friday, April 12, and carries no option of a fine. The cross-dresser was arraigned in court by the EFCC on April 5th on a six-count charge, including abuse of the Naira and money laundering. While the money laundering charges were dismissed, he was convicted of Naira Abuse after confessing to the crime. The court also ordered that he be remanded in EFCC detention in Lagos.

The judgement was originally scheduled to be delivered on April 9 but had to be postponed due to the public holiday for the Eid-Fitri celebrations from April 9 to April 11. https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/04/exclusive-bobrisky-sentenced-to-six-months-in-jail-without-no-option-of-fine.html

The demise of Nollywood actor, Junior Pope Odonwodo, has left a community of fans, colleagues, and loved ones in mourning.

According to reports, the talented actor passed away while filming at an undisclosed location, having drowned during the shoot.

This news arrives several hours after the actor posted a video of himself on a boat on his Instagram page. The news of his passing has elicited an outpouring of grief from Nigerians on social media, as they come to terms with the loss of a beloved public figure.

https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/04/junior-pope-odonwodo-nollywood-actor-dies-in-boat-accident.html

A popular Nigerian hypeman, Brian James, also known as Brian B, has passed away after battling an undisclosed ailment for a long time.

Prior to his death, he had sought public assistance for funds. His passing was announced by Nigerian media personality, Do2dtun, on Friday.

Do2dtun wrote: “Goodbye Brian… we lost him. Live! Make an impact. He did in his career and the love he showed to us all…”

Read full on: https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/04/hypeman-brian-b-is-dead-photos.html

Wife of Detained Binance Executive Begs FG for husband release
Mrs. Yuki Gambaryan has made an appeal to the federal government for the release of her husband, Tigran Gambaryan.

Yuki, the spouse of the detained head of financial crime compliance at Binance, conveyed her plea through a letter directed to the federal government. It is worth noting that on February 28, both Gambaryan and Nadeem Anjarwalla, Binance’s regional manager for Africa, were apprehended by Federal authorities.

Despite Anjarwalla managing to escape from the custody of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), both executives associated with Binance were arraigned in court by the Federal Government on charges of tax evasion and money laundering.

Yuki mentioned that Gambaryan, a father of two children, has been separated from his kids for several weeks. In a statement titled “Letter to the Nigerian Government from the Wife of Tigran Gambaryan” provided to The Nation on Thursday, April 4, Yuki emphasized her husband's profound admiration for Nigeria.

She said: “My name is Yuki Gambaryan, and I am pleading with you from the bottom of my heart as the wife of Tigran Gambaryan to please allow my innocent husband to come home.

“Tigran is first and foremost an incredible father, loving husband, and supportive friend to everyone who meets him. He has a deep respect for Nigeria and its people, and in fact, he had expressed excitement to me at the prospect of starting to work in your country.

“I understand and respect your decision to scrutinize his employer, Binance. I realize that this whole situation has arisen from your commitment to your country and its citizens. However, Tigran is merely an employee.

“He does not have authority over Binance’s corporate decisions or policies that might have impacted Nigeria. He spends his workday investigating and pursuing criminal activity on the platform.

“His very job is to help governments, like yours, prosecute and prevent illicit activity. Sadly, any influence he might have had at Binance to help the company leaders understand your position in this disagreement is trapped in that cell with him.

“Tigran is globally recognized for his significant contributions in solving crimes involving cryptocurrencies. I know many of his peers, including in Nigeria, would say that Tigran’s continuous efforts not only decrease illicit activity on Binance’s platform but for all cryptocurrencies across the world.

“Tigran and I have two young children. This is the longest their Dad has ever been away from them, and they don’t understand why he hasn’t come home to them. They ask me every day when he will be coming home, and still I cannot give them an answer. This week is going to be especially difficult as it is our youngest’s 5th birthday on Friday. I never imagined Tigran would not be here with us to celebrate it.

“Meanwhile, his aging mother spends her days in tears, praying for the safe return of her only son. She raised Tigran almost all on her own. He is her everything, the thought of him being in a country so far away from her and in these circumstances is beyond devastating to her.

“A small part of me chips away every day without Tigran by my side. He is the love of my life, and I cannot imagine a life without him. I plead with you from the depths of my heart to release Tigran. Please let our children see their father. Your act of mercy would be eternally appreciated.”

Read on: https://www.circlesontv.com/2024/04/wife-of-detained-binance-executive-begs-fg-for-husband-release.html