Following the restoration of the state’s telecommunication networks, operators of Point of Sale (POS) outlets resumed services in parts of Kaduna State on Saturday.
Telecommunication networks were shut down in the state’s Brinin Gwari, Igabi, Chikun, and Kajuru Local Government Areas in October as part of security measures.
Mr Samuel Aruwan, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, stated at a news conference in Kaduna on Friday that telecommunication services had been restored.
He stated that the restoration came as a result of reports from security agencies that a certain level of success had been achieved in the fight against banditry.
A check by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday revealed that POS outlets that had been closed due to a lack of telecommunications connectivity had reopened for business.
Mrs Sarah Francis, who owns a shop in Sabo, Kaduna, said she returned to her business after relocating to the Barnawa area to squat with a friend.
“My happiness knows no bounds because the last two months have not been funny at all.”
“At the very least, my customers can now patronize me because business has resumed as usual,” she said.
Mr Nduka Chukwuma, who recounted how he spent a “fortune” on transportation and feeding when he operated from another area not affected by the telecommunications closure, said the suffering was now over.
“I used to spend close to N1,000 per day on transportation and feeding because I closed my shop and usually went to Gwari Avenue to operate by the roadside.”
“We thank God for the prompt response by the government, which demonstrated that they listened to the cries of the masses,” Chukwuma said.
Another operator, Mr David Onoche, praised the government’s decision to restore connectivity, saying that without it, life would have been unbearable for many, particularly as the Yuletide season approaches.
“We had already determined that the shutdown would last until January, but we are delighted with the restoration.”
“Connectivity is still epileptic, but I’m confident it will be fully restored in a few days,” he said.
Miss Grace Musa, a resident, expressed relief that she would no longer have to travel long distances because a POS operator near her home had reopened for business.
“The network restoration has brought so much relief to people who use POS terminals and other telecommunications users,” she added.