By Olasunkanmi Onifade

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd. (NIGCOMSAT) have partnered to  enhance service delivery and improve connectivity across the country.

This is contained in a statement jointly signed by Aisha Bantam, Head of Corporate Affairs Department, NIGCOMSAT Ltd, and Mr Ayodele Babalola, Technical Adviser, Media and Communications to the Director-General of NIMC.

According to the statement, the two organisations recognise the pivotal role of internet connectivity in streamlining operations.

It noted that both organisations underscored the need for partnership to ensure the provision of reliable internet services to NIMC offices nationwide.

“This strategic initiative aligns with the shared commitment of both organisations to leverage technology for improved access to essential services and to foster digital inclusion

“Leveraging its position as a leading provider of satellite communication solutions, NIGCOMSAT is poised to contribute its expertise and infrastructure to establish seamless connectivity for NIMC offices across the federation.

“By harnessing NIGCOMSAT’s robust satellite-based internet services, NIMC aims to enhance operational efficiency, fortify data management capabilities, and ultimately deliver superior services to the Nigerian populace”.

It noted that the collaboration underlined the collective dedication of NIMC and NIGCOMSAT to leveraging strategic partnerships and innovative solutions to address challenges and meet the evolving needs of Nigerians.

“As discussions progress, both organisations remain committed to fostering synergy, transparency, and accountability in the pursuit of their shared objectives.

“We believe that by working together, we can unlock new opportunities, drive progress, and contribute to the socio-economic development of Nigeria.

“We look forward to further engagements and the realisation of tangible outcomes that will benefit all Nigerians.” (NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

By Olasunkanmi Onifade

Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), on Friday, called on the Federal Government to enact a legislation banning importation of construction materials into the country.

Director-General of NBRRI, Prof. Samson Duna, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of the ongoing Innovation and Technology Expo in Abuja.

According to Duna, banning importation of foreign construction materials will promote use of indigenous materials in Nigeria.

“The federal government should either ban the importation of construction materials or impose high taxes on them so that people will not be able to afford them.

“Let’s look inward and patronise our own goods, thereby encouraging investors to develop indigenous products,” he stated.

Duna said NBRRI had successfully constructed a storey building, using bamboo instead of steel.

He also cited the institute’s numerous research projects as evidence of the potentials of indigenous materials.

Some of the research and development outputs by the institute, he said, included NBBRI dismountable house, compressed and stabilised earth blocks and pozzolana, an alternative to cement and bamboo as reinforcement.

“Others include: rubberised asphalt for road maintenance, natural bitumen mix design specification development for road construction, fancy facing tiles, paving stone-making machines and testing laboratories and equipment,” he said.

The director-general called on government to mandate all public schools across the country to use blocks produced by the institute, adding that this would serve as an incentive to NBRRI to increase production.

Highlighting the institute’s activities, Duna said that it had constructed a building within two days at the expo.

He noted that such rapid construction methods could benefit internally-displaced persons (IDPs) across the states, if properly harnessed.

Duna expressed concern over the country’s continued reliance on imported construction materials, warning that if this was allowed to continue, it could stagnate the development of indigenous building materials.

He acknowledged Nigeria’s abundant human and material resources, maintaining that harnessing indigenous materials could significantly boost the nation’s economy.

The director-general also spoke on the challenges of commercialising research outcomes in the country.

According to him, exhibitions like the innovation and technology expo will serve as platforms to showcase research findings and attract investors.

He also highlighted the institute’s research efforts in developing materials suitable for Nigeria’s climate, including advancements in building, road and construction materials.

NAN reports that NBBRI is a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology.

It was established in 1978, with the mandate of building capacity and conducting applied integrated research and development into the various aspects of road, building and engineering materials for the development of Nigeria’s economy. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah and ‘Wale Sadeeq

By Sylvester Thompson

The Director General of Projects Development Institute (PRODA), Dr Peter Ogbobe, says the institute is discussing with other firms on possible partnership to commercialise ceramics and pencil products.

Ogbobe said this on Thursday at the ongoing Science, Technology and Innovation Expo in Abuja.

He said that the institute was discussing with Momas Electricity Manufacturing Company Ltd., Coscharis Farm Igbariam, Harbin Institute of Technology and the People’s Republic of China.

He said that lithium ion battery and solar panels among others were also to be commercialised.

He said that the institute sought approval of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation to partner and execute a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with relevant stakeholders to support the commercialisation efforts.

The PRODA boss said that the institute leveraged on STI tools that could create new opportunities for growth, and build a sustainable and resilient economy for the future.

According to him, PRODA has developed and produced machines/equipment that achieve high productivity and high quality products.

“Such equipment help obviate the challenges posed by manual processing of agro-produce with a view to reducing post-harvest losses.

“The institute mechanises palm fruit processing flow-line to red oil.

“There is also the mechanisation of cassava to starch processing flow-line, and soya-bean to flour processing flow line among others,” he said.

Ogbobe said that Nigeria’s economic progress could be propelled by leveraging the opportunities technology presented to drive positive change.

“Through constant innovation, collaboration and pushing the boundaries of what is possible, the power of technology can be harnessed to overcome challenges and foster sustainable development.

“STI is the driving force behind the progress and development of nations, with the potential to revolutionalise industries, spur new business opportunities and enhance growth.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chidi Opara/Deji Abdulwahab

By Sylvester Thompson

Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, the Director-General, National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), says the agency has unveiled indigenous technology that can produce all necessary gadgets to be used in hospitals across the country.

Mustapha said this on Wednesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sideline of the 2024 Science, Technology and Innovation Expo in Abuja.

According to him, NABDA has developed test kits for COVID-19.

“The move was not for the disease to resurface, but to show that the agency is capable of developing other kits for testing.

“It also means that the agency has indigenous technology that can provide all the necessary gadgets to be used in hospitals in Nigeria,” director-general said.

According to him, the test kits are cheaper, more efficient.

He said that the agency was also working on vaccine technology which would soon be developed.

“We are hoping that this will transform the medical line in our country, ” director-general said.

He added that the agency had discovered lassa fever drug which was still under clinical trial.

He said that the agency’s indigenous biodigester could be used to provide electricity especially to rural communities in the country.

” It can be used to provide gas for cooking as well as energy for whatever demand.

“With these developments, it means that we have researches that can take into consideration and transform the Nigerian economy, ” Mustapha said.

Earlier, the NABDA D-G made a presentation on, “STI: Solution to national economic challenges, the role of biotechnology. ”

Dr Rose Gidado, Director, Agricultural Biotechnology department of the NABDA and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee of the NABDA expo, remarked that biotechnology was a game changer.

“It has revolutionalised our world in countless ways, from advancements in medicine and agriculture, to environmental sustainability and industries processes,” she said.(NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

By Jessica Dogo

Prof. Jeffery Barminas, the Director-General of the National Research Institute for Chemical Technology (NARICT), has urged the Federal Government to commercialise science and technology research findings in the country.

Barminas made this plea on Wednesday during the institute’s Special Day at the ongoing 2024 Science, Technology, and Innovation Expo in Abuja.

The sub-theme of the special day is titled “Investment Opportunities as a Sure Path for Economic Growth and Revitalisation through Innovative Chemical Technology.”

The director-general also called on the legislature and relevant agencies to emulate the working templates of the United States, Asia, and Europe to foster industry growth.

He noted that the industry is currently expanding in proportion to Nigeria’s economic growth estimate.

“There must be a deliberate effort by the government to encourage the commercialisation of scientific and technological research findings.

“Chemical industry experts in Nigeria should urge the legislature and relevant agencies to replicate the working templates of the United States, Asia, and Europe to foster industry growth.

“This market is diverse, ranging from basic chemicals like petrochemicals and polymers to specialty chemicals used in specific applications, such as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and electronic chemicals.

“As we can see, there are numerous opportunities for Nigeria to explore in the chemical industry market.

“For this sector to play the role of the engine of growth, it must continue to diversify, seek product definition, be export-oriented, and above all, be competitive,” the director-general said.

He highlighted that NARICT has established a ten-ton methanol production plant from natural gas and other renewable sources like biomass and waste, which would lead to job creation and import substitution.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the production of precipitated calcium carbonate is vital in pharmaceutical and allied industries.

“NARICT aims to provide investment opportunities for economic growth through the natural endowment of resources we have in this country.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa/Deji Abdulwahab

By Olatunde Ajayi

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday, inaugurated a digital economy centre and e-learning facilities in Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the project, located at the Ogbomoso Girls’ High School, is a collaboration between the Renewed Hope Initiative of the First Lady and NITDA.

It is aimed at providing more access to technology for women and girls in Nigeria.

Speaking during the inauguration and handing-over of the project, Mrs Tinubu described the initiative as a strategic step foward in setting the path for Nigerian women and girls to participate and strive in the digital revolution.

Mrs Tinubu, represented by Mrs Tamunominini Makinde, the wife of Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, said the project was “a further demonstration of the Bola Tinubu administration’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to opportunities across the country.

“In our quest for national development, we must recognise the undisputable role of technology in advancing gender equality by ensuring women’s full participation in the digital revolution through access to technology.

“We can unlock the potential that will enable women and girls to contribute meaningfully to economic growth, innovation and social progress toward national better prosperity.

“As we strive toward building a more inclusive and equitable society, I urge all beneficiaries to take ownership of the project and maximise benefits of the centre.”

She added that the Renewed Hope Initiative’s social investment programme in collaboration with NITDA under the National Digital Gender Inclusion strategy would do more.

Mrs Tinubu said the programme would see the equipping of more centres with e-learning facilities in the remaining states of the federation before the end of the year.

Also speaking at the event, the Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, said the state government would soon move a step forward in the digital world.

He said the state government would implement a Connected Learning for Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics digital platform in the state’s schools.

Adelabu expressed the readiness of the government to drive education through innovative technology.

“Schools in the state will be digitally connected within a target period of two years,” he said.

In her remarks, the Principal of the school, Mrs Zainab Odekunle, said the e-learning facilities would give easy access to modern resources for both their teachers and students.

Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

By Christian Ogbonna

The Wife of the President, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday, inaugurated a Digital Economy Centre (DEC) and e-learning facility in Ebonyi

The First Lady, at the inaugural Ceremony in Abakaliki, said the centre was aimed at ensuring women’s full participation in the digital revolution in the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the project is in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the Renewed Hope Initiative.

Represented by Mr Wahab Alawiye-King, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs and Strategy, Office of the First Lady, Tinubu said the facility became necessary for sustainable development.

She noted that the ceremony was held simultaneously in five geopolitical zones namely: Oyo, Cross River, Bauchi, Niger and the Federal Capital Territory.

“In our quest for national development, we must recognise the indispensable role of technology in advancing gender equity. By ensuring our women’s full participation in the digital revolution, through access to technology.

“We can unlock the potential that will enable them contribute meaningfully to economic growth, innovation, and social progress toward our nation’s greater prosperity.

“The centre marks a strategic step forward in setting the path for Nigerian women and girls to participate and thrive in the digital revolution.

“This further demonstrates the commitment of the administration of President Bola Tinubu at ensuring equitable access to opportunities across the country,” she said.

She explained that technology had become a positive tool in the world, shaping everything from communication and commerce, to education and healthcare delivery.

“Therefore, in the evolution of the digital economy, our women must not be left behind. Continuous training, access, and exposure to technology can open new opportunities, providing greater access to employment and thriving businesses,” she said.

In her remarks, the Wife of Ebonyi Governor, Mrs Mary Maudlin Nwifuru, thanked the federal government and the Wife of the President for bringing the project to the state.

According to Nwifuru, the project is a welcome development for the people of the state, especially the womenfolk.

She pledged the state government commitment to support the digital centre toward nation building.

The governor’s wife urged the federal government to continue to assist Ebonyi in ensuring that the digital centre was sustainable.

“We, therefore request the supply of 300 computer systems and other facilities in the state,” Nwifuru added.

Also, Mr Kashifu Abdullahi, Director-General of NITDA, in a virtual presentation, said the centre was aimed at equipping the women and children on information technology.

He said the centre was designed to build the nation through technology and promote inclusive access to digital world. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Modupe Adeloye/Maureen Atuonwu

By Angela Atabo/Jessica Dogo

Tech experts, on Monday, called on Nigerians to leverage on Artificial Intelligence (AI), for easier life.

Mr Justin Nwosu Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Binnox and Mr Michael Nwankwo, Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Binnox, who developed the Binnox App, made the call at the launch of the Binnox app in Abuja.

They explained that the Binnox app was created to bridge the gap between customers and business owners as well as facilitate trade and customer satisfaction while also connecting people to local businesses to be able to buy things.

According to Nwosu, the Binnox App is an AI driven delivery platform that connects people to businesses around their localities to buy things with ease.

“Information Communication Technology (ICT) has come to stay for years now and is actually growing without bounds.

‘“This means that in the near future, everything is going to be technology driven, so this is the best time to start leveraging AI in our day-to-day life.

“For those people who are also sceptical about using online platforms, you just have to start using it because you wouldn’t want to stress too much.

“For a platform like ours which provides security for you and your product as well as the worth of your money back to you. I think it is time to jump on it.

“For example, you can buy food and groceries from your home and visit local markets from your home, without having to step out.’’

According to him, beyond that, the issue of trust is an extra problem as Africans rarely have trust to buy things online.

“I mean, how can we really say this is what I want and exactly what we get?

“What we did was to build an AI that essentially also helps to check the behavioural pattern of these businesses and riders to make sure these people are perfect and in the best conditions to actually give you what you want.

“So, this means that our AI actually vets businesses and vets riders to actually give you the trust as a customer and the trust you actually paid for before you get the product,’’ he said.

Nwosu also said that the group created a simple solution to help businesses sell as it was basically a third-party system.

“We do not own the businesses; we do not own the product. We are actually not e-commerce. We are a delivery platform. But we have e-commerce systems for businesses.

“What differentiates us is that you are not buying from us or someone you are waiting for in Lagos for three days. We have a couple of competitors, and the market is still very new in Africa.

“We have few competitors, but what separate us is the tools we are building with AI to actually enable demand and supply to be more secured,’’ Nwosu said.

According to him, Binnox has contributed to the nation’s economy by adding financial value to businesses and reducing unemployment through the employment of youths.

He called on the government to support young entrepreneurs with funding to develop businesses.

Similarly, Nwankwo, said that one of the most interesting technologies used on Binnox was the socket IO that enables the relationship from customers to business owners and the riders work seamlessly and immediately.

Nwankwo called on the government to create an enabling environment for youths to do business, not just in infrastructure, but also in economic policies.

“We need more grants, and we need more investment opportunities. We need the government to do more for local businesses, not just big businesses. We need empowerment.

“If you look at me, I am young. The youth is the future; we will build the future because we are the future,’’ he said. (NAN)

Edited by Deborah Coker/Deji Abdulwahab

By Sylvester Thompson

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) says it launched the Developing Engineering Leaders Through Her (DELT-Her) to close gender gap and encourage more female participation in Nigeria’s engineering sector.

Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), NASENI, Mr Khalil Halilu, said this on Friday at the Launch of DELT-Her in Abuja.

Halilu described DELT-Her as an opportunity platform through which girls and young women could pitch and present their exciting and groundbreaking ideas for funding.

He said NASENI would fund the project through its Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT).

“What we seek to do is to close the gender gap in engineering, inspire the next generation, provide financial support for new ideas and projects, and ultimately strengthen the entire engineering ecosystem,” the EVC said.

He noted that global average for female representation in engineering was 28 per cent, which was very little.

“In Nigeria, it’s only five per cent, only one in 20 Nigerian engineers is a woman.

“It is this imbalance that DELT-Her seeks to correct, by focusing attention and funding on young women.

”Very importantly, creating and cultivating public awareness around the need to train and mentor more women,” he said.

Halilu said that through DELT-Her, the agency intended to double the number of female engineers in Nigeria over the next five years.

According to him, NASENI will contribute to the economic growth and development of Nigeria through job creation and technical skills development.

In his remarks, Dr Muhammad Dahiru, Chairman, Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT), said the launch was a call for proposals towards the implementation of DELT-Her initiative.

“It is no coincidence that the launch is scheduled to be held on the anniversary celebration of the International Women’s Day.

“It is to underscore the esteem attributed to the contributions of women as well as their potentials in our society,” Dahiru said.

According to him, the committee is throwing the weight of support behind women through the DELT-Her project.

He said that the project focused on encouraging more female participation in Nigeria’s engineering sector.

Dahiru noted that recent statistics revealed the dire need for deliberate actions to be targeted at the existing gender imbalance in the engineering sector, to inspire inclusion while contributing to the nation’s GDP.

He maintained that the committee through NASENI’s support, was determined to fund innovative and commercially viable ideas in engineering and technology proposals by women.

He said to actualise the birth of multiple start-up companies from ideas selected under the project, each successful applicant would be matched with female mentors who are industry giants both in engineering and business.

According to him, the submission portal for proposals will go live from March 9 and proposals will be accepted till May 20, when submissions close.

Also speaking, Mrs Margaret Oguntola, President, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), said the initiative was a pivotal moment in the collective efforts to foster gender inclusion and empower women in the field of engineering.

She said women remained significantly under-represented in the engineering workforce, facing barriers and challenges that hindered their full participation and advancement in the field.

Also, Chairman, Senate Committee on NASENI, Sen. Ezenwa Onyewuchi, lauded the project as lofty and germane.

“We must ensure cultural balance that women take their rightful places in the area of science and technology.

“The right environment should be created for women to excel,” Onyewuchi said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Deji Abdulwahab