News Agency of Nigeria
Weak frameworks, multiple taxation hinder telecom sector growth –Edun
Science & Tech

Weak frameworks, multiple taxation hinder telecom sector growth –Edun

By Jessica Dogo

The Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, says that weak frameworks and multiple taxation hinder growth in the telecom sector.

Edun said this at a Business Roundtable on Investments in Broadband Connectivity and Safeguarding Critical National Information Infrastructure held on Wednesday in Abuja.

The two-day programme organised by the National Communications Commission (NCC) is with the theme: “Right of Way and Protection of Broadband Infrastructure: The Road to Success in Broadband Investment and Connectivity”

The Minister, who was represented by the Director, Home, Ministry of Finance, Dr Ali Mohammed, urged the private sector to increase investments in the telecom industry.

He said that the Federal Government would solve the challenges through stakeholders engagements.

“This sector is virtually vulnerable; it is compact therefore we are calling on our local and international investors to come forward so that we can invest in this particular sector.

“Government alone cannot do it. We need the cooperation and collaboration of the private sectors.

“The problems have been identified in terms of connectivity and broadband infrastructure development in Nigeria,” he said.

Edun said that though there were other challenges, they were surmountable.

“There is need for stakeholders to come together and deal with these particular problems,” the minister said.

The Chairman, Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, said that broadband connectivity was an essential part of infrastructure and the backbone of Nigeria’s social and economic future.

Abdulrazaq, who was represented by the Director-General of the NGF, Abdulateef Shittu, said that governors were fully in support of the country’s digital transformation.

“We fully support the national commitment to raise broadband penetration to 80 per cent by 2027. Achieving this will require an additional 95,000 kilometres of fibre-optic cable across Nigeria.

“This is an ambitious task, and one that calls for genuine collaboration among stakeholders gathered here today,” said Abdulrazaq who is also Kwara governor.

The Executive Vice-Chairman, NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, said that the earlier approved increase in telecom tariffs had attracted $1 billion investment into the sector.

“In line with our economic regulatory mandate, earlier this year, the commission approved the application of tariff rates that are both cost-reflective and competitive within the telecommunications industry.

“This strategic regulatory intervention has significantly strengthened investors confidence in the Nigerian telecommunications sector.

“I can confirm to you that operators have made collective commitment to invest over $1 billion in additional rollout investments to expand broadband coverage and capacity nationwide,” he said.

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, represented by AVM. Enebong Effiom, Director, Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Protection, Office of the National Security Advisers (ONSA), said NGF should foster consistency and consensus among states.

Ribadu also said that NGF could encourage compliance to security issues  through peer engagement and aligning state policies with national objectives.

“The forum can also facilitate dialogue to all regulated broadband concerns that hinder digital inclusion and infrastructure growth,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Uche Anunne

PhD scholar seeks tech-driven urban planning to boost efficiency, growth
Science & Tech

PhD scholar seeks tech-driven urban planning to boost efficiency, growth

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Babajide Awoyinfa

 

A Nigerian PhD scholar in power system studies, Mr Olaoluwa Adeleke, has urged government and stakeholders to prioritise renewable energy and digital infrastructure to drive Nigeria’s smart city transition.

 

Adeleke made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos.

 

He noted that Nigeria could leapfrog outdated infrastructure by adopting digital systems used in advanced economies such as the United States and Singapore.

 

According to him, Nigeria does not need to repeat the mistakes of older economies.

 

“We can skip decades of slow infrastructure development by going digital and integrating smart technologies into our cities.”

 

Adeleke, whose research focuses on renewable energy, power system stability, microgrids, and robotics, said Nigeria, one of Africa’s most outage-prone nations, could benefit from IoT-enabled smart grids that detect and correct faults automatically.

 

He explained that smart water networks and advanced monitoring systems could also improve efficiency, reduce waste, and support better urban resource management, aligning with Nigeria’s goal of building sustainable and resilient cities.

 

The scholar described renewable energy as the foundation of smart city development, stressing that with only about 55 per cent grid access nationwide, Nigeria must expand investment in solar microgrids and smart metering technologies.

 

He said, “Renewable energy is not an option; it is the backbone of any smart city project. Without clean and stable power, there can be no genuine progress in digital transformation.”

 

According to him, these innovations will reduce dependence on generators, lower carbon emissions, and save part of the estimated 29 billion dollars lost annually to power volatility and grid instability across major sectors.

 

Adeleke said urban transport inefficiency, especially in Lagos, costs billions of Naira yearly, adding that AI-driven traffic lights, GPS-equipped buses, and predictive transport software could drastically reduce congestion and improve mobility.

 

He said, “Cities like Singapore and Barcelona have shown that smart mobility is achievable when data, automation, and real-time monitoring are combined. Nigeria can replicate that model with local innovation.”

 

He emphasised that smart governance was essential for success, urging the creation of digital platforms that allow citizens to report outages, monitor responses, and participate in public decision-making processes more effectively.

 

“A truly smart city must be people-centred. Technology should empower citizens to hold leaders accountable, improve transparency, and strengthen service delivery at all levels.”

 

The scholar warned that increased reliance on technology could expose Nigeria to cyber threats, including ransomware and data breaches, calling for stronger cybersecurity frameworks and specialised training for government and energy sector workers.

 

He said adopting blockchain-based data protection systems would enhance security, improve transparency, and prevent unauthorised access to sensitive information within Nigeria’s emerging digital infrastructure and smart energy ecosystem.

 

Adeleke also called for smart city solutions in rural areas, such as solar microgrids, telemedicine, and IoT-based agricultural tracking, which he said would improve access to power, healthcare, and food production.

 

He noted, “Smart cities must not exclude rural areas. With solar microgrids, smart farming, and telemedicine, we can create inclusive development that bridges the rural–urban divide.”

 

He identified financing gaps, weak connectivity, and low awareness as key challenges, recommending public-private partnerships, satellite broadband investment, and community education to ensure equitable digital and energy access nationwide.

 

On international cooperation, he urged Nigeria to strengthen collaboration with the World Bank, African Development Bank, and global technology firms like Huawei to secure funding, knowledge transfer, and technical expertise.

 

He said effective implementation of smart city projects could save up to 30 per cent in energy losses, create ICT and renewable energy jobs, and improve national security through better data-driven management systems.

 

“Smart cities are not only about technology but about creating sustainable, inclusive, and resilient communities powered by clean energy and guided by innovation,” Adeleke told NAN. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Kwara govt, group train 200 pupils on AI solution to tasks
Science & Tech

Kwara govt, group train 200 pupils on AI solution to tasks

By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo

Kwara Government, in partnership with Digital Equity Africa, has trained 200 school children from across the state on how to apply Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create and solve real-world problems.

The participants were drawn from public and private primary and junior secondary schools, following a seamless selection process.

Speaking at the grand finale in Ilorin, the Managing Director, Ilorin Innovation Hub, Mr Temi Kolawole, said the training underscored the government’s commitment to digital inclusion.

Kolawole said he was impressed with the manner the pupils exhibited their creative skills and expressed optimism that their future was bright.

“It is very impressive to see kids under the age of 10 presenting the websites they built, presenting a story book they have written and even music they requested AI to compose.

“If they can do this at this stage we can imagine what they will do in the next five to 10 years.

“Such exposure improves their curiosity, innovation and creativity,” he said.

The CEO of Digital Equity Africa, Mrs Justina Oha, said the session was not just about teaching technology but also about shaping mindset.

She said it also reflected nurturing innovation and helping young people to perceive themselves as creators of the digital future, not just consumers of digital products.

Oha commended the government and the Ilorin Innovation Hub for the partnership and their commitment to digital literacy and inclusion in Kwara.

“Over the past few days, your children have explored the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence, learning how machines think, create, and solve real-world problems.

“They have collaborated, built and imagined boldly, proving that the future truly belongs to those who are curious, courageous and creative.

“We are deeply grateful. This partnership by the government is commendable in ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has access to the opportunities of tomorrow.

“To you, the parents, thank you for believing in your children and in this vision. The best investment you can make is in their minds.

“What you witnessed today are not just projects, but seeds of transformation,” she said.

One of the participants, Abdulkareem Khadijat, appreciated the state government and Digital Equity Africa for providing them with the platform to learn digital skills and become AI-compliant. (NAN)(www.nanews.ng)

Edited by Uche Anunne

bn broadband project to boost GDP growth — Tijani
Science & Tech

$2bn broadband project to boost GDP growth — Tijani

By Nana Musa

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, says Nigeria’s new two-billion-dollar broadband project will significantly boost Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.

Tijani stated this during the plenary on Smart Growth, Digital Leap hosted by IHS at the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit (NES #31) in Abuja.

He said the project would enable digital inclusion and position Nigeria as Africa’s next global technology exporter.

The minister described the plan as an audacious bet, noting that fibre-optic broadband and innovation hubs could unlock Nigeria’s long-anticipated digital wealth.

Tijani said the project, with a hybrid financing model of 49 per cent government and 51 per cent private sector, targets universal broadband coverage across all 774 local governments within three years.

“Connectivity is not optional. It’s the foundation of productivity,” he said.

He noted that, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector already contributes about 15 per cent to Nigeria’s GDP.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this is one of the highest in sub-Saharan Africa.

Tijani, however, lamented that broadband penetration remains around 50 per cent, leaving millions of Nigerians offline.

He added that a 10 per cent rise in broadband access could raise GDP by two per cent annually, in line with World Bank data on digital economies.

The minister said the two-billion-dollar plan, supported by partners such as the World Bank, IFC, and Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), aims to close that gap.

He explained that the initiative would also classify broadband as national critical infrastructure, which would fast-track private investment and reduce telecoms operational costs.

Tijani said one notable example of public-private collaboration was the IHS Towers innovation hub project, described as West Africa’s largest.

He said the hub was expected to train thousands of young Nigerians, offering incubation spaces and access to global investors — mirroring tech development models in India and Brazil.

The minister said the project’s economic impact would extend beyond the technology sector.

He cited economists’ estimates that improving rural broadband access could add up to 25 billion dollars annually to Nigeria’s agricultural output, supporting export diversification.

Tijani said through the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme, the government plans to train digital workers in Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Others are cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics, with four per cent focusing exclusively on AI.

He stressed that Nigeria could not build a trillion-dollar economy without national connectivity.

The minister commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for policies repositioning broadband as essential economic infrastructure through tariff reforms and regulatory clarity.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IHS Nigeria, Mr Mohamad Darwish, said Nigeria’s digital landscape reflects a mix of rapid growth, emerging technologies, and persistent challenges.

He said the country had made significant digital strides in the last decade, with internet penetration fuelling social media engagement, education, commerce, and entrepreneurship.

Darwish noted that small businesses now leverage digital platforms to reach wider audiences and expand faster than before.

He said major advances had been recorded in e-commerce, agency banking, and mobile payments, with startups exploring AI, machine learning, and other emerging technologies.

He added that initiatives such as 3MTT and innovation hubs across cities were upskilling young Nigerians and creating vibrant tech ecosystems.

“Today, our country stands tall as Africa’s most vibrant startup ecosystem and one of the world’s leading creative communities,” Darwish said.

He, however, noted that Nigeria still faces infrastructure and skills gaps, with poor rural internet access and persistent power challenges hindering digital inclusion.

Darwish added that digital literacy remained uneven, with many citizens unaware of the full potential of online tools.

He said bridging this divide would require sustained investment in public-private partnerships.

The CEO said government efforts to expand broadband coverage, combined with community-based digital skills programmes, could empower more Nigerians to join the digital economy.

He added that private sector investments in infrastructure, innovation, and talent could enhance productivity, improve efficiency, and promote inclusive growth.

Darwish said coordinated efforts to drive digital adoption across value chains would strengthen competitiveness and attract sustained investment.

He stressed that to build a smart economy, Nigeria must treat digital infrastructure, innovation, and talent as core growth drivers.

“We cannot build a prosperous and inclusive Nigeria by 2030 without digital technology at its core,” Darwish said.

He added that digital infrastructure had become the backbone of national productivity and that both public and private sectors must harness it for inclusive growth.

Darwish said the session aimed to highlight infrastructure gaps affecting Nigeria’s digital competitiveness and identify reforms to strengthen public-private partnerships for sustainable investment.

He said discussions would also focus on strategies to expand rural connectivity, lower broadband costs, and scale innovation ecosystems in sectors such as agriculture, education, health, and manufacturing.

The CEO added that building Nigeria’s digital skills and talent pipeline was vital to meeting industry demand and unlocking youth potential. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Don invents inverter, tech-hub to boost research commercialisation
Science & Tech

Don invents inverter, tech-hub to boost research commercialisation

By Olatunde Ajayi

Dr Adam Muritala, don at Obafemic Awolowo Univeristy, (OAU) Ile-Ife, says he has invented Afri-inverter and established African Pro-Humanity Technology Hub (APHTH) to enhance research commercialisation.

Muritala, an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and the Head, Department of Mechanical Engineering, OAU, said this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Monday.

He said that the Afri-inverter produced by APHTH was an indigenous technology with most of its components sourced locally.

“Unlike most imported inverters that are heavy in weights because they use wet batteries, Afri-inverter uses lithium battery.

“This makes it unique, it’s not so heavy, and it works perfectly; we are trying to make it even better than what is available in the market.

“We are still looking for investors, so that we can be able to build Afri-inverter at a reduced price, so that people can afford it in Nigeria,” he said.

The don said the technology showcased African innovation and proof that African minds could produce solutions to Africa’s challenges.

Muritala said the project aimed at revolutionising research and development in Nigeria, particularly in tertiary institutions.

“Nigerians are importing from China and some other countries. We have to develop our own technology so as to boost our economy,” he told NAN.

Muritala said APHTH would serve as new platform for African-invented technologies and AI-driven education.

According to him, the aim is to bridge the gap among research, innovation, and real-world impact.

The don told NAN that APHTH was an initiative dedicated to advancing indigenous innovation and empowering African talents.

According to him, the hub seeks to further investigate and proffer solutions to situations whereby many graduates of engineering are not contributing positively to the national development.

He said that the gap was properly addressed in his book entitled: “Towers of Hope, Halls of Despair: A Journey Through Nigeria’s University System.”

“The book presents a historical and analytical audit of Nigeria’s university system, exploring colonial legacies, the evolution of university funding, gender inclusion in engineering education.

“Our universities are the engine rooms of national progress. If we reform our universities, we reform our nation,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Uche Anunne

NSE advocates state-led rural electrification to boost power supply
Science & Tech

NSE advocates state-led rural electrification to boost power supply

By Angela Atabo
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has called for the full adoption of state-led rural electrification programmes to accelerate access to power and reduce heavy dependence on the federal grid.
The society made the call in Abuja at its 29th October Lecture with the theme: “Evaluating Nigeria’s Power Sector Reform 2005-2023: A Quantitative Analysis of Technical Performance and Regulatory Impact.”
Mr Tasiu Gidari-Wudil, former NSE President from 2022 to 2023, who spoke on the topic, said the 2023 Electricity Act opened new opportunities for states to take control of their electricity needs.
“I am advocating for state rural electrification programmes across all 36 states and the FCT, in addition to the Nigerian Electricity Commission.
“In the U.S. where I did all my regulatory trainings, every state has a public utilities commission, while the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is at the centre, managing all interstate businesses and large hydro plants.
“Beyond that, even small villages can form cooperatives to generate electricity for themselves with the resources they have. That is the model we should adopt.
“So, with the new law, we are moving towards that and people will be able to take their destiny into their hands in terms of power.
Gidari-Wudil described lack of electricity as one of the most critical infrastructure challenges facing the country and the wider Sub-Saharan Africa.
He noted that while reforms had delivered some progress, including private sector participation, expanded regulatory frameworks and increased installed capacity, Nigeria was still far from achieving reliable and affordable power.
He highlighted persistent systemic issues including political interference in tariff setting, inadequate infrastructure and financial unsustainability.
He said that power failures caused annual losses of about $50billion, hitting manufacturers hard and causing industries to rely on diesel generators, thereby reducing competitiveness.
He said that consumer satisfaction remained low, with over 50 per cent of Nigerians believing they had not benefited directly from reforms.
“Tariff reforms like the Service-Based Tariff have improved revenue but not necessarily service delivery, as monitoring remains weak,” he added.
Looking ahead, Gidari-Wudil stressed the need for context-specific solutions, adding that reform models should be adapted to local realities.
He called for strengthened regulatory capacity, financial sustainability with transparent subsidies and meaningful stakeholder engagement at community level.
He urged government and stakeholders to sustain commitment to electricity reforms, saying, “If we want electricity, we have to do the right thing.”
The Special Guest of Honour, Dr Kola Adesina, the Group Managing Director of Sahara Power Group, said private sector investment was crucial for the power sector.
He noted that, however, for the sector to thrive, policies must be consistent, contracts must be honoured and an enabling environment must be assured.
Adesina, represented by Godwin Emmanuel, Head of Generation, Sahara Power Group, said, “The reforms of yesterday must, therefore, evolve into the reforms of tomorrow.
“They must be reforms that inspire investor confidence, encourage technological adoption and ultimately serve the Nigerian people,” he said.
Adesina, therefore, said the task before stakeholders was to deepen and accelerate those reforms with technical precision, regulatory courage and unwavering political will.
“We will continue to invest, innovate and collaborate because we believe that Nigeria’s future is bright and that with collective effort, indeed, there will be light,” he stressed.
The NSE President and Chairman-in-Council, Mrs Margaret Oguntala, said the lecture’s topic resonated deeply with the ongoing national conversations around sustainable electricity supply, energy transition and power sector efficiency.
Oguntala said the October Lecture was instituted as a strategic platform for the NSE to articulate its position on critical national issues.
She said: “Most importantly, it is to showcase the knowledge, wisdom and the professional expertise of our revered past presidents, whose leadership and contributions continue to inspire generations of engineers.
“This gathering, therefore, brings together thought leaders, policy makers, industry experts and engineering professionals for impactful dialogue on issues that shape our national future.
“With over six decades of service to the nation, the NSE remains committed to promoting engineering excellence, upholding ethical standards and contributing meaningfully to nation building.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Christiana Fadare
Nigeria to showcase 105 innovations in London to attract investments
Science & Tech

Nigeria to showcase 105 innovations in London to attract investments

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) says Nigeria is ready to showcase 105 innovations in London that will attract foreign investments and provide solutions to some challenges facing humans.

The Director-General of NBTI, Dr Kazeem Raji, made this known during a world press conference on the Grand Finale of NextGen Innovation Challenge 2025 on Thursday in Abuja.

“On Thursday, Oct. 9, in the city of London, 105 of Nigeria’s most outstanding innovators, selected from over 3,000 ground-breaking entries, will converge at the Hilton London Paddington.

“They will pitch revolutionary solutions across HealthTech, AgriTech, FinTech, Clean Energy, Artificial Intelligence and more before an esteemed gathering of global investors, policymakers, and development partners.

“This monumental initiative, powered by NBTI in partnership with UKALD London, signals a new era for Nigeria’s innovation-driven economic transformation and places Nigeria at the forefront of global innovation diplomacy,” Raji said.

According to him, they will showcase a smart wearable Bra-X for early detection of breast cancer, a ventilator capable of supporting six patients simultaneously, AI-controlled drones for precision farming and pest control.

“Others are Affordable clean energy solutions for underserved communities, Next-generation FinTech applications for inclusive finance and much more, touching every critical sector of our economy and human development.”

Raji explained that the reason for holding the event in London is because London is a hub of global capital and innovation that provides a platform to connect with global venture capitalists.

He said the development would be an opportunity to present innovators’ ideas to diaspora investors looking to reinvest back home, and network with European industry leaders and bilateral development opportunities.

“I want to further reiterate and state that the highlights of the NextGen Innovation Grand Finale include, Innovation Pitches from 105 innovators with scalable, investable solutions.

“Consortium Project Showcase: Interface Africa, Ogoni Land Renewal and the $1 billion Dollar Innovate Africa Israel/BIPVco Solar Project.

“This project will strategically leverage the platform of one of our NextGen innovators as a scalable model, ensuring both impact and sustainability.

“Launch of Selected Coastal Areas of Lagos as the World’s Safest Innovation & Leisure Destination.

“Global Spotlights: SpinLab (Germany), Innovate UK, Zumah FinTech Panel, and the Commonwealth Roundtable,” Raji said.

He also hinted the grand finale will feature guests and keynote speakers such as Minister of Innovation,  Science and Technology,  Mr Uche Nnaji, CEO Tesla Group Europe, Dr Shambhu Pokharel, Mr Victor Kitange, Economic Adviser of Commonwealth Group and many others.

Raji commended the owner of Air Peace Nigeria, Allen Onyema, state governors, UKALD, National Assembly, the innovators, media and all Nigerians for their support.

“As part of our digital transformation, we are proud to unveil the NBTI Global App; a powerful gateway linking Nigerian innovation with diaspora markets, global investors, and African entrepreneurs worldwide.

“Let the world take notice that Nigeria has arrived, not as a consumer of technology, but as a global leader in innovation.

“We are not exporting talents; we are amplifying solutions from Africa to the world.

“The NextGen Innovation Challenge is Nigeria’s innovation renaissance, and we will not stop until the youth of this nation have a seat at every global innovation table,” Raji said.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that those in attendance include the Directors-General of National Directorate of Employment,  Mr Silas Agara and officials from Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, NASS and many others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Electric Vehicle firm to solve mass transit challenge through local content
Science & Tech

Electric Vehicle firm to solve mass transit challenge through local content

By Aderogba George

The Founder of NEV Electric Ltd, Mr Mosope Olaosebikan, says the company is committed to using local manufacturing and clean energy to solve Nigeria’s mass transit challenges.

Olaosebikan made this known during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

He said as Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, attention was shifting toward the next phase of freedom which he said was not just political sovereignty but by economic and industrial self-reliance.

“In the transport sector, NEV Electric Ltd is emerging as a key player shaping that vision, using local manufacturing and clean energy to solve Nigeria’s mass transit challenges.

“For decades, Nigeria’s public transport system has relied heavily on imported vehicles and fossil fuels, exposing citizens to fuel price shocks and rising costs.

“NEV Electric is changing that narrative through an integrated model that combines local assembly, increasing local content manufacturing, and sustainable infrastructure deployment,” he told NAN.

According to him, the firm currently builds its electric buses with 30 per cent local content, incorporating Nigerian components, materials, and labour.

He said the target was to reach 70 per cent local content as domestic supply chains expand.

He told NAN that the company was not just assembling buses, but also building Nigeria’s transport future, powered by clean energy, local innovation, and sustainable systems.

According to him, the company is also deploying 160kW high-capacity fast chargers across Abuja and Lagos, the largest in Nigeria; to support fleet operations and reduce range anxiety for operators.

“Beyond vehicles, NEV Electric is investing in training programmes for Nigerian engineers and technicians in EV assembly, maintenance, and conversion, impowering a new generation of green-skilled workers.

“Aligned with Nigeria’s industrialisation goals, NEV Electric is positioning the country as a regional hub for electric mobility.

“By integrating local manufacturing, charging infrastructure, and innovative financing, NEV Electric is delivering a homegrown solution to Nigeria’s urban transport needs,” he said.

NAN reports that due to climate change concerns many countries are transiting from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles which scientists say are more environment friendly.

An International Energy Alliance (IEA) report projects that more than 17 million units of electric vehicles were sold in 2024.

The figure indicates that EVs accounted for over 20 per cent of new car sells globally that year.

In Nigeria the adaptation of electric vehicles is growing very fast with an estimated 15,000-20,000 such vehicles on its roads so far in 2025, says a Climate Scorecard report.

Climate Scorecard identifies and advocates actions that can lower emissions in leading greenhouse gas emitting countries. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Space tech: NASRDA urges schools to leverage space education
Education , Science & Tech

Space tech: NASRDA urges schools to leverage space education

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has called on schools administrators nationwide to leverage space education programmes to prepare students for careers in space science and technology.

Dr Matthew Adepoju, Director-General, NASRDA, gave the charge at the second graduation ceremony of the Pathway to Space Programme.

The programme was organised by Future African Space Explorers STEM Academy (FASESA), South Africa and held at the Premier Academy, Lugbe, Abuja.

Adepoju, represented by Mrs Olayinka Fagbero, an Assistant Director in the agency, said that the initiative was designed to catch the students young, by creating awareness and stimulating interest in space education, among African students.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme, which was organised physically and virtually, had participants from Ethiopia, Kenya and Nigeria.

Adepoju revealed that beginning from the third edition of the programme, NASRDA would coordinate the participation of Nigerian students in the event.

According to him, the space agency is going to be sending invitations to schools to join the programme because it is very much interested in getting young people to embrace space science and technology.

“This is an opportunity for us to get them to be part of a programme that is designed to shape their career path.

“In the next cohort coming up in 2026, we are hoping to have as many schools as possible, because it is something that is open and free.”

Speaking in her capacity as FASESA Country Coordinator, Fagbero said the programme had an increase of about 400 students compared to 70, in 2024.

She explained that participation in the programme only required internet connectivity and a device, adding that in view of this, FASESA targets thousands of students across the country.

She expressed hope that more schools across the country would join the programme to build a strong community of future African scientists and space explorers.

Similarly, Mr Sean Jacobs, Executive Director, FASESA, said the initiative was aimed at integrating space exploration into African classrooms to prepare young learners for careers in the global space sector.

According to him, FASESA, through partnerships with global aerospace companies like Boeing and stakeholders such as NASRDA, is providing resources and facilities to assist students understand space and its career opportunities.

“We need to make our students understand that space is not only dedicated to being an astronaut, but the impressive development of our space applications.

“We want our students to understand that for them to contribute to global policy making initiative; they need to understand what the space sector is.”

Speaking on his experience with Nigerian students, Jacobs said he was impressed by their intelligence and enthusiasm.

“We have very smart kids in Nigeria, Kenya and Ethiopia. What they need is a community of support; involving government, parents and schools.”

In his remarks, Mr Christopher Akinsowan, Principal of the school, urged the students to leverage the opportunity to widen their scope of career pursuit, adding that space science and technology was interesting.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of certificate of participation to students who participated in the programme (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu/Deborah Coker

FG set to deploy 90,000km fibre optic to enhance digital technology – Sen. Salis
Science & Tech

FG set to deploy 90,000km fibre optic to enhance digital technology – Sen. Salis

By Abiodun Lawal
Sen. Shuaib Salis, the Chairman, Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security, has announced that Nigeria will soon launch a 90,000-kilometre fibre optic network nationwide to boost digital penetration.
Salis disclosed this on Monday in Abeokuta during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun council.
At the programme themed, “The Future of Journalism: Navigating AI and Objective Reporting,” the senator predicted a revolution in Nigeria’s digital communication landscape.
He said that the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu, is set to deploy 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic broadband across the country, stressing that the development would cover all states, local governments and wards.
“This government under President Bola Tinubu is going to deploy 90,000 kilometres fibre optic broadband across the country.
“Not just in some states, not just in some local governments; there is no ward that will not have fibre optic presence.
“A number of studies have confirmed that any 10 per cent increase in your fibre penetration in the country will lead to a minimum of two per cent increase in your Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.
“So, just imagine if you deploy more technology; and it is very easy to fathom. Just imagine we have fibre optic in all our wards.
“I just came back from the UN General Assembly with Minister of Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani where we went to preach this to investors to come and invest in Nigeria,” he said.
According to the lawmaker, a significant challenge for professional journalists is the potential for AI to exacerbate quackery in the industry.

He emphasised the need to integrate technology into the curriculum for mass communication and journalism training.

“The challenge for professional journalists is that AI also has the potential of increasing the incidence of quackery in the profession.

“So, what do we need to do? Our curriculum for mass communication and journalism training institute must embed technology into the curriculum.

The Ogun State Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya, in his keynote address, emphasised ethical dimension.

Onasanya noted that Nigeria lacks clear regulatory guidelines on disclosing AI-generated content, including images, audio, and video.

He urged the leadership of the union to publish a widely adopted code of practice to address AI.

In his speech, the Chairman of the council, Wale Olanrewaju. noted that the council has recorded milestones progress and development in less than three years.

Olanrewaju stated that AI has changed the way news are gathered, processed and disseminated.

“As a union, our responsibility is to prepare our members not just to adapt, but to lead in this new reality. We must ensure that technology enhances our credibility rather than diminish it,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured a panel discussion moderated by Prof . Dele Odunlami, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye.

The discussants included Mr Kunle Durosimi, President, Ogun Tech Community and Registrar, West Midlands Open University and Mr Lekan Adeeko, AI Enthusiast and Co-founder, Tedprime Hub.

They deliberated on the merits and demerits of using AI as journalists.

The speakers urged journalists to maintain professionalism when utilising AI in their work, highlighting its potential to foster national unity and cohesion. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yetunde Fatungase

X
Welcome to NAN
Need help? Choose an option below and let me be your assistant.
Email SubscriptionSite SearchSend Us Email