As more cases of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) are confirmed around the country, telecommunication service providers have reassured Nigerians of constant internet service connection in order to enable them access to timely information on the virus and to stay connected with their loved ones.
With the recent shutdown of all schools, restriction of social and religious activities by the Federal Government, and the increasing numbers of confirmed positive coronavirus cases in Nigeria, social distancing and self-isolation with the need for most people to work from home is inevitable.
It has, therefore, become more important than ever, to have reliable broadband internet service; as more people will depend on online news sources to be informed on the situation of things in the country. Also, students and employees will need the internet to keep working by sending emails, carry out research and online financial transactions. Social media activities will also become more necessary during a time of social distancing.
MTN Nigeria, in a statement sent to BusinessDay, said; “we understand the vital role our network and services play in supporting people, organisations and institutions nationwide.”
“Mindful of our responsibility – to keep Nigeria and Nigerians connected o the people they love and the information and technology they need, we have adjusted our internal policies and made a few changes to how we serve our customers,” the telco said.
Stephane Beuvelet, acting managing director, 9mobile, in a message to empathize with 9mobile customers on the disruptions occasioned by the coronavirus crisis to lives and businesses, said that the company recognises the toll the crisis is having on people’s lives and affirmed it would live up to its promise as a caring network by keeping them connected with their loved ones round the clock.
“I want to personally send my heartfelt wishes to those affected by the virus, both directly and indirectly and wish them a speedy recovery. I urge our customers and all Nigerians to take adequate precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones from this unfortunate incident that has enveloped the globe,” he said.
Beuvelet said that 9mobile’s recognition of the importance of high-quality telecoms services in the dissemination of information and staying connected, made it embark on the ongoing expansion of its 4G LTE across the country.
He said, “Our recent efforts in expanding our LTE capability across the country will enable us to provide robust broadband services to keep you connected with family and friends. The 9mobile network is purposely set up with adequate redundancies and buffers to ensure the seamless continuity of services.”
The Ag. MD disclosed that 9mobile had put together preventive tips in line with the necessary protective measures against the virus. Also, our business continuity strategy has been activated to ensure customers continue to get support through service line 200 and all digital channels.
MTN said that although its workers will be working remotely and some of its stores will be temporarily closed, it is working to keep the economy moving.
“The situation unfolding around the world is unlike anything we’ve seen in our lifetimes and is a reminder that we’re all more connected than we’ve ever been. To get through this we need each other – we need patience, understanding, compassion, and to do the right thing for each other. With that in mind, we wanted to reach out and share what MTN is doing in response.
We have been closely monitoring the situation and believe it is crucial that companies do two things – help contain the escalating outbreak and safeguard operations so that economies keep moving,” the telco said.
