By Funmilola Gboteku
Havilla University (HUNI), a privately-owned institution, has partnered New Horizons, an information technology training company, to expand Information and Communications Technology (ICT) related programmes in the school.

The Chancellor of Havilla University, Mr Jones Tangban, made the announcement during a ceremony held to induct the Chief Executive Officer of New Horizons Nigeria, Mr Tim Akano, as a member of the institution’s Governing Council in Lagos.

Tangban said: “We want to leverage on the expertise and resources of New Horizon to establish strategic partnership to enhance the university infrastructure.

“This collaboration will help us update and expand ICT related courses and programmes by ensuring that they remain relevant and aligned with industry best practices,” Tangban said.

He added that it would facilitate scholarship and internship opportunities for Havilla University students at New Horizons Nigeria and provide them with practical experience in the ICT field.

Speaking on Akano as a member of the institution’s governing council, he said the Information Technology education expert had been playing a vital role in the lives of many Nigerians, especially youths.

“Akano has shown capacity in giving the best to mankind, particularly the young ones who are thirsty to be the best of Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg.

“We believe in the parameters that qualify you to be a member of Havilla University, and we wish to let the world know that you are now an exquisite member of the institution’s governing council.

”As a man who has engineered the training of hundreds of thousands of Nigerian youths and professionals, we are confident that making this caliber and rare person to be a member of the Governing Council of the university is a privilege,” Tangban said.

In her presentation of Letter of Appointment, the Vice Chancellor, University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Obi, who was represented by Prof. Peter Okafor, Deputy Vice Chancellor (HUNI), urged the recipient Akano to reciprocate the trust extended to him by Havilla University.

“Going by your antecedents, we strongly believe that your wealth of knowledge and passion will be significantly felt in the institution’s operations. We trust your track record,” she noted.

In his speech, Akano expressed gratitude to Havilla University for the privilege given to him to serve as a Members of Council.

“When I reflected over this call to service, I concluded that this is another opportunity for me to do what I have been doing for the past 20 years- which is about youth mentorship.

“I believe that together with the council we will take Havilla University to the next level in Cross River; and the whole world will come to recognise the institution,” Akano said.

Other dignitaries present at the event include Dr John Adeniyi, Board of Trustee member (HUNI); Pastor Gbenga Olufisayo, General Overseer, Fresh Oil Global Impact Church /Secretary, Board of Trustees (HUNI) among others.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Havilla University popularly known as HUNI was established on Nov. 6, 2021 at Nde-Ikom in Cross River State.

The university is known for its dynamic system of teaching and research in a serene environment, aided by cutting-edge equipment, facilities, and structures to aid in the development of world-class graduates who will be competitive in content and character. (NAN)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) on Friday called for House of Representatives’ support and intervention initiatives to develop the sector.

The National Executive Council members of the association made the demand when they paid a courtesy visit to Rep. Peter Akpatason, the Chairman, House Committee on Telecommunications, and his committee members in Abuja.

The visit was to inform the lawmakers of ATCON’s 30th anniversary, present issues confronting the telecoms sector, explore ways of collaborations and familiarise with the committee.

Mr Anthony Emoekpere, ATCON President, said some of the issues bedeviling the sector included the need for an enabling environment that would bring investment to the sector and foster growth.

Emoekpere also said there is the challenge of driving local content, funding deficit, multiple regulations and rising cost of business, among others.

“Telecom is a capital- intensive sector, requiring significant CAPEX investment to facilitate efficient communications service provision.

“We would like this committee to drive strategic engagement with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on behalf of the telecom sector to bridge the infrastructure funding gap.

“This can be done by providing accessible low-cost intervention funds for the rapid deployment of Broadband Infrastructure nationwide, including in rural areas.

“Though telecommunication is a global service, nations promote their local players in different ways, enabling them to compete regionally, globally, thereby raising a multiplier effect in their economy to repatriation of profits.

“There is a need for a concerted effort to shape the future of youths by sponsoring a bill to ensure that a Nigerian content plan exists in the industry,” he said.

He recommended that the committee can adopt the model practiced by the Nigerian Local Content Management Board for the Local Content Fund in the Oil and Gas sector.

Other concerns he raised were issues of rising cost of business, wholesale tariffs for leased lines, Right of Way, need for critical national infrastructure, adding that they are central to the country’s socio-economic progress.

“The Federal and State Governments should be encouraged to activate the use of ICT in governance, health care, education, agriculture, with the well documented attendant benefits to the socio-economic development of Nigeria,” he said.

Responding, Akpatason said the collaboration between the legislature and the private sector is believed to drive growth, innovation and ensure expertise inputs are considered in law making processes.

He assured the association that the committee was ready to assist in providing necessary parliamentary interventions and support when the need arises.

“In line with the committee situation to strengthen and sustain relationship with stakeholders, we will organise a legislative regulators stakeholders forum before the end of the year.

“This is for us to get acquainted and enhance our understanding of our challenges, goals and aspirations, as well as gain valued insight of the telecommunication sector.

“We are going to set up a committee, consisting of members both from the legislature and the association to come up with recommendations on all the identified issues.

“The government is interested in ensuring that businesses grow because the government cannot employ everyone,’’ Akpatason said.

Rep. Midala Balami, the Vice Chairman of the committee, said in developing local content, there is need to dwell on quality to meet global standards.

Balami also said the youthful population and skills of Nigerians needed to be harnessed to ensure that citizens enjoy real-time dividends of democracy.

Other concerns of the telecommunication sector raised by the legislators included vandalism of telecommunications infrastructure, diversification to rural areas, challenge of data theft and drop calls.

ATCON has a vision of facilitating, accelerating the growth and development of the Nigerian Telecommunications and ICT industry through constructive policy advocacies and effective collaboration. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Muhammad Suleiman Tola

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

The Nigerian Institution of Space Engineers (NISEng) has said that Nigeria can gain sovereignty of its security when it takes hold of manufacturing machine components used in addressing insecurity.

Prof. Spencer Onuh, a Space Engineer and guest lecturer, said this at the 13th National Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Institution in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the conference is “Aerospace Manufacturing and Indigenous Capacity: A Step Towards National Security”.

Onuh defined Aerospace manufacturing as the process of designing, developing, producing aircraft and spacecraft, as well as their various components and systems.

He said that Nigeria’s strategic location along the equator, its emerging economy and pool of talented people placed it at an advantage as a potential hub for aerospace activities.

Onuh decried that Nigeria’s aerospace manufacturing heavily depended on foreign nations and that the situation had posed a challenge to national security stability.

“Components can be machines or software wise which you order from countries that have this equipment and they can hold you to ransom and they do it diplomatically.

“There are some equipment you cannot buy off the shelve but can be sold to a number of countries.

“If any of the equipment goes wrong, you still need to go through the same process to get them back and except we have this independence, we can’t claim sovereignty,” he said.

Onuh enumerated that the country needed to develop indigenous capacity, infrastructure and the enabling environment that would propel investments in aerospace manufacturing.

He added that the benefits of indigenous aerospace manufacturing for security included economic independence, technology protection, rapid response, strategic imperative, among others.

Onuh advised that the government should implement Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education initiatives in schools, encourage intellectual property development, Public-Private partnerships and engage stakeholders in developing aerospace activities.

The lecturer said that government’s support and strategic initiatives were crucial in realising the vision of indigenous aerospace manufacturing.

The National Chairman of the institution, Dr Umar Abdullahi, said they had always expressed dedication to shaping the future of aerospace manufacturing as an important path to national security.

“Our conference theme underscores the intricate relationship between aerospace manufacturing and the safeguarding of a nation’s sovereignty.

“Aerospace manufacturing is not confined to technological advancements and economic growth.

“It directly influences national security by empowering us to design, produce and maintain military aircraft, surveillance drones, communication satellites and more.

“In so doing, it provides us with the means to protect our territorial integrity and reduce dependency on foreign suppliers for critical equipment and technologies,” he said.

According to him, the commitment of the Institution serves as an ideal opportunity to foster collaborations, promote knowledge transfer and explore tangible initiatives that will further the institution’s goals.

Dr Sadiq Umar, Director, Centre for Satellite Technology Development (CSTD), said the government should fix infrastructure to discourage the brain drain across sectors of the economy.

According to Umar, Nigerians remain outstanding across the globe in any field of their endeavour and bringing them back home will help develop the systems, especially concerning security issues.

Highlight of the conference was the induction of some members of Nigerian Universities Engineering Students’ Association (NUESA) of the University of Abuja to the NISEng Student Chapter. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

By Olasunkanmi Onifade

The Managing Director, Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited, Mrs Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, has unveiled a cutting edge Educational Technology (EdTech) solutions equipped with broadband connectivity to transform education in the country.

The announcement came during a stakeholders meeting in Abuja, where Egerton-Idehen addressed the pressing need for accessible internet connectivity hindering the effective integration of technology in education.

Highlighting the challenges faced by schools and the government in advancing technology in education, Egerton-Idehen emphasised the limitations posed by insufficient internet connectivity.

According to her, many ICT laboratories, despite being equipped with computers, remain underutilised due to the lack of affordable internet access.

She said for the past few years there had been an increase in the number of EdTech startups building technology-backed learning solutions in Nigeria, as with the rest of the world.

“While schools and governments are making efforts to advance the integration of technology into education by furnishing some ICT laboratories with computers, a second class problem prevents the use of most of these devices in schools.

“Among other challenges, the lack of access to affordable internet connectivity has proven to be a major hindrance to the effective use of technology for teaching and learning.

“Many laboratories are under lock and key and some others used for basic computer literacy rather than exploring other learning opportunities,” Egerton-Idehen said.

She said the resources can benefit schools by increasing engagement and motivation in the classroom and promoting critical thinking and problem-solving.

The director-general also said it could also be in measuring students’ performance and learning outcomes, as well as facilitate the administration, documentation and delivery of educational content.

She said the product had three main areas of focus of; numeracy and Literacy for Primary Schools, digital libraries for Secondary Schools and content Creation for Teachers, and Learning Management System.

The director-general also unveiled the ‘customer experience and support solution’ for their clients and potential clients, adding that it consists of an Al-powered chatbot and a call centre solution.

“In an era where customer service is paramount, our call centre solution is set to transform the way we connect and support our customers.

“We aim to enhance customer interactions, streamline support services, and ultimately elevate the customer experience,” she said.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Mr Bosun Tijani, who was represented by Communications and Media adviser, Mr Osibo Imohoitsike, said NIGCOMSAT was open for businesses and partnership.

He said the stakeholders meeting was the core part of what the world needs with the focus on knowledge, policies, infrastructure, innovation, entrepreneurship and training.

The Executive Director, Marketing and Business Development of NIGCOMSAT, Mr Najeem Salaam, said the company had a new drive with its upgraded broadband and broadcasting capacity platform for Nigerians to utilise.

“NIGCOMSAT is therefore open for even greater business opportunity for all of you to own.

“The Nigeria of our dream is achievable and we have started doing the work already. NIGGOMSAT is ours together as Nigerians and we must grow our own and make the best out of it,” he said.

On his part, a former Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbeh, called for another satellite to address some security challenges in the country. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Muhammad Suleiman Tola

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

The GIZ-Data Transformation Center (GIZ-DTC) Nigeria, the African Union-European Union (Au-Eu) Digital for Development (D4D) Hub Project on Thursday organised a training programme for Data Protection Officers (DPOs), processors and controllers.

The three -day training, held in Lagos ,was in partnership with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

Speaking at the programme, Dr Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the NDPC ,said that the training was to further enlighten DPOs, to better understand the Data Protection Act of 2023.

Olatunji said that the NDPC ,in line with its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan, aimed to develop globally competitive human capital.

According to him ,the training is expected to bridge knowledge gap and deepen data privacy and protection within the ecosystem.

He said: “It is part of the major role of data controller and processors to have what we call technical measures (firewalls, encryption methods, softwares deployed)

“Organisations must consider the calibre of their human capacity,the kind of privacy policy statement to drive what they do.and the kind of information they collect and process, share and store/secure.

“The weakest link could be a cleaner or driver and they should be properly trained on data protection,” he said.

Olatunji said unavailability of funds was a major challenge in data protection, noting the problem was not peculiar to Nigeria.

He said that the commission had been carrying out investigations around resolving data breaches.

Dr Thuweba Diwani, Commission Manager, GIZ-DTC Nigeria said that by educating data processors and controllers, organisations could minimise the risks associated with data breaches, legal violations and reputational damage.

She said the ultimate goal was to instil a culture of data protection and privacy awareness, wherein every member of an organisation contributes to upholding the integrity and security of data, while adhering to legal requirements.

“The training’s core objective is to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to collect, process and store personal data in full compliance with the law.

“The training will support the digital ecosystem and advance digital transformation of Nigeria by instilling a culture of responsible data handling.

‘”It will equip individuals and organisations with the knowledge and skills required to safeguard sensitive information, thus building trust among customers and business partners,” she added.

Diwani noted that as Nigeria continues to embrace digital transformation, organisations would be well prepared to leverage on data-driven innovations, while ensuring data security

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the training is being attended by partipants from the private sector,Civil Society Organisations and government institutions. (NAN)

Edited by Buhari Bolaji

By Olatunde Ajayi

The National President of Nigerian Association of Technologists in Engineering (NATE), Mr Dominic Udoatan, says he is hopeful technology can play a big role in the country’s growth.

Udoatan stated this when he led a group of technologists from 36 states of the federation on a courtesy visit to the management of The Polytechnic, Ibadan on Monday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the visit was part of the association’s activities to mark the 2023 Conference of Technologists (CONTECH) and Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Udoatan advocated for the establishment of a National Polytechnics Commission (NPC) to address the age-long disparity between university and polytechnic graduates in the country.

He noted that policy-makers have placed high premium on university education to the detriment of other levels of educational institutions, blaming the development on the nation’s reward system.

The NATE president likened the present situation to training young graduates without a secure future.

”The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) should be left with the management of Technical Colleges, while the proposed NPC should concentrate on formulating policies for Polytechnic education.

“The disparity between the university and polytechnic graduates is taking its toll on the enrollment of students as many parents prefer to have their children registered in the former.

“Students enrollment at polytechnics nationwide is now dwindling on yearly basis due to the premium placed on university education,” Udoatan said.

He however berated the management of polytechnics for not doing enough as they have in place the same practice in terms of recruitment and promotion of staff in their various institutions.

“The economy of the country is supposed to be technologically-driven, but with the dichotomy, it will be hard for the country to meet up with other developing nations.

“To correct the imbalance, there is need for the setting up of a National Polytechnics Commission, like that of the National Universities Commission (NUC).

“I am also imploring Rectors of the polytechnics across the country to use their offices to champion the cause,” Udoatan added.

Welcoming the team to his office, the Rector of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Prof. Kareem Adebiyi, assured the association of his support in achieving the set goals.

“I am a product of both university and polytechnic education and I can tell you that polytechnic graduates have a lot to offer the country.”

He commended the leadership of the association for doing a great work, saying “wevare satisfied with the level of work that you are doing.

“From workshops, we have seen different designs and various machines that are available here for the small and medium scale industries. It is left for the business people to take advantage of the machines.”

The Rector appreciated the association for choosing the institution as part of the places to visit to mark their 2023 CONTECH and AGM.

“We are indeed honoured. Our institution is largely a composition of engineers, technicians and technologists who are contributing their quota in no small way to ensuring that the mandate of the institution is optimally achieved,” he stated.

NAN reports that the theme of the 2023 CONTECH Ibadan is: “Sustenance of Technological Code of Ethics and Engineering Standards, A key for National Development.”(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Remi Koleoso and Olawale Alabi)

By Lucy Ogalue

The United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, has advised youths to be agents and citizens of change in the digital space.

Mohammed said this in her visual message to the members of the Nigeria Model United Nations Society (NigMUNS) on in Abuja.

She spoke during the 2023 Nigerian International Secondary Schools Model United Nations (NISSMUN), with the theme, ”Promoting responsible digital citizenship among young people”.

According to her, digital technologies have a truly transformative potential and the digital age has much promise for technology.

She said in spite of the numerous advantages of digital technology to society, it had its darker sides.

”It enables instant dissemination of hate speech and disinformation to potential audiences.

”You have a role to play as local citizens, before sharing content online, consider its source and credibility. By being vigilant, we can combat hate speech and misinformation.

”You are more connected and empowered than ever before. You are more aware of what is possible. At the United Nations, we believe that a bright future for everyone is possible.

”Today, I call on you to join the UN as well as the citizens, to be leaders and agents of change.

”And as we strive to build a sustainable, inclusive and resilient future, let no one be left behind, “she said.

Also, Mr Chika Nwaozuzu, Chairman, Governing Council, NigMUNS, reiterated the need for young people to be guided as they accessed the Internet.

”And I’m glad that everyone even at the highest level of the United Nations encourages responsible digital citizenship,” he said.

Similarly, Mr Thomas Ageh, a Staff member at Regent School, Abuja, commended the organisers of the event while calling for a similar forum for youths in the society.

He said: ”This is a platform for the next generation and these kids have lived up to expectation.

I recommend this more for the parents, society and the Nigerian educational system.”

Meanwhile, the President of the General Assembly for NISSMUN 2023 Conference, Sofia Nwafor, said the conference was about coming together, joining minds and finding solutions to the world’s problems.

”This year’s conference has been very innovative and life changing. It enabled us to cultivate our minds collectively to proffer solutions and build problem solving skills.

”I want the youth to remember that to be a citizen of the digital world comes with great power but with great power comes great responsibility.

”You must take responsibility for your actions and ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.

Similarly, Eniola Oguyinka, a Director of NISSMUN, said verbal abuse and hate speeches were having a negative impact on our society.

He urged the youth to spread love and be kind, adding that society can make Nigeria a better place through digital space.

On her part, Ameera Sallam, Deputy Secretary-General, NISSMUN 2023, said the conference enabled youths to interact with others with common goals and vision.

She thanked the organisers for the opportunity while urging the youth to maximise what they acquired and be better digital citizens.

Mr Oche King, Co-Secretary-General, NISSMUN, said it was crucial for the youth to manage their time properly in the digital space.

”I advise all youths to be very mindful of what we say on social media as they can make or break other people and they can be a deciding factor in other people’s lives,” he said.

Also, Mr Olisa Egwuatu, Director of the General Assembly, NISSMUN 2023, said ”in this 21st century, almost everybody has access to the Internet.

”It is now left for us to decide what we want to do with the internet. We should make sure to use the internet positively to connect, research, relate and learn.”

Meanwhile, the newly-elected President for the 20th NISSMUN 2024, Kenneth Nnamani, expressed joy at being elected to serve.

He said:” I am very honoured to receive this position and I pledge to ensure all the activities for next year go very well.(NAN)

Edited by Idris Abdulrahman

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi), on Thursday inaugurated the Abuja CNG conversion and training centre to ensure the attainment of sustainable energy future in the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the centre was commissioned at the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), under the leadership of its Director-General (D-G), Dr Bayero Farah.

In his remark, Mr Zacch Adedeji, the Chairman, Presidential CNG Initiative Steering Committee, said CNG was the way to reduce the cost of transportation.

Adedeji disclosed that the government spent US$ 6 billion to import petroleum into the country annually, “using our dollars and just creating the mess that we have found ourselves in.

“At times for us at the Presidential CNG Initiative Steering Committee, when we are meeting we can’t just understand how it was possible that Nigeria up until today has been buying Petrol for all cars and commercial vehicle when we have gas here.

“And we can use the gas. We can power all our vehicles with the gas at a cheaper and one third of the cost.

“We will not have been spending any foreign exchange, and we will have created all kinds of jobs and opportunities.”

Adedeji, represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Domestic Affairs, Mr Toyin Subair, assured that no monopoly would be created in executing the CNG project across the country.

He said within the next three to five years, Nigeria would be saving US$ 3 million to US$ 5 billion that the country was spending on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), adding that “we will no longer be buying it.

“We are opening this economy and this part of the sector to everybody in the country. If you are able to set up a conversion centre, we will work with you if you are able to import kits.

“If you organize training for the people, we will start working with you. We are bringing all the banks and all the stakeholders into the sector.

“There is going to be a level-playing field and that is the assurance of President Bola Tinubu on this initiative and we pray to God that it is also going to be extremely successful.”

Also, the Project Director of P-CNGi, Mr Micheal Oluwagbemi, said the event marked a significant step forward in pursuing cleaner, more affordable, and environmentally-responsible energy solutions.

Oluwagbemi, who is an engineer, also said the launching of the P-CNGi-affiliated conversion centre was a conscious choice to embrace cleaner and more affordable energy solutions.

“In a world where the environment is crying out for help, where climate change is an undeniable reality, our decision to adopt CNG technology is not just commendable; it is essential.

“The commissioning of the Abuja P-CNGi Conversion Centre, the second of its kind, after the Lagos State P-CNGi Conversion Centre, represents a profound shift in Nigeria’s approach to energy and transportation.”

He said the initiative, driven by the vision of President Tinubu, was not merely about technological advancements, as the move reflects a fundamental transformation of mindset, habits, and responsibility towards the environment and the nation’s economy.

“The conversion of Petrol Motor Spirit (PMS) vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Bi-Fuel at this facility is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to mitigating climate change and ensuring sustainable economic growth.

“The Presidential CNG Initiative is aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, emphasising prudence in resource management and dedication to the well-being of the environment.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to all the individuals, organisations, and partners who have been instrumental in making this launch possible, most especially, our gratitude to Mr. President for deeming us worthy to be executors of his vision for a cheaper, cleaner, safer, and more reliable form of energy for transportation.

“The commissioning of the Abuja P-CNGi Conversion Centre is not the end of the journey, but rather, it marks a new beginning.

“Challenges will undoubtedly arise, but the collective determination, innovative spirit, and collaboration of Nigerians will pave the way for a sustainable, efficient, and responsible future.”

Earlier, the Minister of Transportation, Sen. Saidu Alkali, said studies have shown that CNG could earn the Federal Government over N200 billion from every one million cars if converted.

The minister explained that CNG is cleaner, cheaper and available in the country, adding that it could be used in cars, vans, trucks, motorcycles, buses, trains and ships.

Alkali, represented by Cynthia Ahkidenor, acting Director, Department of Road Transport and Mass Transit Administration, said CNG would also provide the country with energy security.

The minister said the ministry was aggressively involved in the advocacy of engine conversion as an alternative to the removal of fuel subsidy.

“The Federal Ministry of Transportation has been having a series of conversation with relevant stakeholders and transport operators.

“This is in order to get them to buy into the conversation of vehicles to dual engine as a one-off expenditure due to cost of energy.

“The ministry is promoting the rethink compressed natural gas into proper use which is one of the conversation the federal government is involved in as well as being a signatory to the Green House Emission.

“And we have committed to reducing gas from 40 to 60 per cent emission by 2060,” Alkali said.

In his speech, the D-G of the transport institute, Dr Farah, said the launch of the centre marked a significant turning point in the history of transportation in the country.

“We have provided this centre to serve as a conversion centre to all categories of vehicles. Owners will come in to convert their vehicles to CNGs.

“I want to appeal to motorists in Abuja and environs to take advantage of the facilities at this centre to convert their vehicles and enjoy the cheap energy that comes with the CNG,” he said.

NAN reports the P-CNGi recently established seven CNG conversation centres across the country.

It said the establishment of the centres symbolised the commitment of the Tinubu administration to spearhead energy revolution in the country.

It assured that more CNG conversion centres would be established across the country, as a pivotal step in the country’s journey towards a cleaner and economically-sound future. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vincent Obi

By Victor Okoye

Mr Kashifu Inuwa, Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), says the creation of three million jobs in the digital technology sector was achievable within the next four years.

Inuwa stated this on the sidelines of a Public Sector Digital Innovation Summit on Friday in Abuja, organised by Datamellon in partnership with AWS (Amazon Web Services).

He was represented by Bernard Ewah, the acting Director, e-Government Development and Regulation at NITDA.

Inuwa said that the agency was currently working with the public and the private sector to surpass the target before 2027.

He said through the initiative, the Federal Government will work with stakeholders to train three million technical talents.

The director general said job placement would be given priority, and the level of digital literacy of the population would increase by 70 per cent by the end of 2027.

“If you look at the share size of our population that translates to potential producers of talents.

“Our talents have proven to be very productive in the country and are also recognised everywhere in the world.

“These can be seen in the number of innovations that have come out of Nigeria.

“The sheer size of demand for talents globally means that Nigeria is been modest in our projection, but we have to start somewhere and then scale up,” he said.

He said that NITDA has always played a role in creating the right path towards developing talents for Nigeria.

Inuwa said the agency would continue to lend its support and work in collaboration with its partners, on behalf of the Federal government and the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.

“NITDA is working with an ecosystem of partners to ensure that the right sets of policies and actions are taken to democratise the space.

“Our goal is to make it easier for not only government organisations to have Web presence but also for citizens to access services seamlessly.

“What we are experiencing today with the public sector innovation summit is a manifestation of NITDA’s age-long philosophy of engagement with a broad spectrum of stakeholders,” he said.

He said that government cannot do it alone, adding that all the relevant stakeholders must come together to ensure the success of the sector.

“For instance, even in our key mandate of developing policies, we no longer sit in our offices to develop policies.

“We engage and co-create policies that is the only way that we can create policies that can be useful and highly impactful to stakeholders.

“So, policy making for us is not the perogative of NITDA alone. It involves the poor person on the street and that’s why this engagement is considered useful and important to us,” he said.

Also speaking, CEO of Datamellon, Mr Wale Adedeji, said the summit was an event set to revolutionise the public sector technology in the country.

Adedeji said that the company is a digital firm dedicated to revolutionising the landscape of digital sector innovation.

“Our mission is to empower government and organisations with cutting-edge technology, enabling them to serve their citizens better, faster and smarter.

“In the digital age, data is the new currency and the overall goal of AWS is all about cost reduction and making sure that you get real value for whatever services provided,” he said.

He said the objective of the summit, amongst others was to unlock the Power of AWS and explore how it is reshaping government agencies’ operations with cutting-edge cloud solutions.

Adedeji said the participants had an opportunity of networking with experts and connect with industry professionals, government leaders, and AWS experts for valuable insights and collaborations.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh