By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Nigeria’s delegation to the G77+China Summit led by Vice president Kashim Shettima on Saturday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Republic of Cuba.

Mr Olusola Abioa, the Director of Information, Office of the Vice President, in a statement, said the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji, signed the MoU for the Government of Nigeria.

The signing ceremony, which took place Saturday on the sidelines of the G77+China Summit at Hotel Palco La Habana, was the high point of Nigeria’s participation at the summit.

Nnaji said the MoU would further enhance collaboration in the field of innovation, science and technology between the two countries.

The minister praised President Bola Tinubu for his visionary leadership which had resulted in the signing of the agreement.

Nnaji, who assured that Nigeria would maximise the opportunities provided by the bilateral agreement, emphasised that the implementation of the agreement would commence in earnest.

He expressed determination to put in place the appropriate mechanism to work out the modalities for programme of action.

Earlier, Shettima averred that Nigeria places high premium on South-South cooperation as a platform for promoting sustainable development of the global South.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the bilateral agreement would focus on research and development.

Other areas include human resource development which will further deepen partnership between the two countries.

The areas of cooperation covered by the bilateral agreement include biotechnology, scientific investigation and innovation, technological development and human resources development.

Others are specialist exchange in the area of science and technology, and technologies transfer for development areas.

The historic event was witnessed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Adamu Lamuwa, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Cuba, Amb. Ben Okoyen and other senior government officials. (NAN)

Edited by Ephraims Sheyin

By Olasunkanmi Onifade

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo says the harmonisation and management of National Identity Number (NIN) is a major means of mitigating and controlling crime, and enhancing the quest for national development.

Tunji-Ojo said this at the 5th Identity Day commemoration organised by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in Abuja.

The theme of day was ‘Identity as a catalyst for Nigeria’s development – Examining the role of identity in key government programs of social safety net financial inclusion, promotion of good governance and transparency’.

He said: “With a database of over 100 million National Identification Numbers in the National Identity Database, NIDB and  NIMC provide essential access to attaining this goal along with other major stakeholders.

” As a member of the Ministry of Interior family, NIMC joins in with other sister agencies in not only improving access by the public to services like passport acquisition and renewal but also the likes of efficient border security technology, effective handling of insecurity around the country.

“Others include the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure, reformation and reintegration of rehabilitated offenders in the society as well as improved emergency and fire response times.”

Tunji-Ojo said that all Nigerians were stakeholders in ensuring the successful implementation of positive policies regarding national identity as it affects government social safety net and financial inclusion programmes.
“We live in the modern digital age where a secure and verifiable identity is vital for any set system to work.

” Think about it, you can’t access bank services and get ATM cards without proving your identity.

“You can’t even engage with others on online social media platforms without first verifying your identity.

“So, identity is key in our everyday lives, which is why we commemorate this day today, ” the minister said.

The acting Director General of NIMC, Abisoye Coker-Odusote said that the day held exceptional importance, adding,”it provides everyone with an opportunity to reflect on the pivotal role that identity plays in our lives and its profound impact on society.

“It is a day to recognise the transformative power of identity in shaping our destinies, safeguarding our rights, and connecting us as global citizens.

” Identity is more than a mere card or a number; it symbolises our existence, our entitlements, and our place within society.

“It unlocks access to essential services, social benefits, and pathways to personal and economic growth.

“It stands as a testament to our individuality while serving as a bridge to our shared humanity,” she said.

Coker-Odusote said said in the face of emerging technologies and evolving threats, there was need to remain vigilant in safeguarding the integrity and security of identity systems.

” While embracing digital transformation, we must prioritize the principles of privacy and data protection.

”Above all, we must be inclusive, leaving no one behind as we endeavor to provide identity solutions for all.

Coker-Odusote said the newly launched ‘Self service online solution’ App would address the challenges associated with registration of NIN, saying it would give easy access at the comfort of their homes.

”We are trying to bridge the gap, this is the basis and approach in the introducing the self service solution, is to reduce the time cost of registration,” she said.

Coker-Odusote said so far 102 million Nigerians had been captured in the National Identity Number (NIN) and assured Nigerians of easier access to registration.

The Managing Director of Barnksforthe Technologies, Mr Adebayo Bankole, who designed the App, said it would address issues associated with NIN registration.

He said: “It includes change of name and so on One cannot change ones age more than once.” (NAN)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

By Jessica Dogo

The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mallam Kashifu Inuwa said Nigerian StartUps had attracted over $4 billion into the economy in terms of investments.

Inuwa spoke at the Innovation Support Network (ISN) 2023 annual summit with the theme: “Unlocking Potential: Collaborating for Growth and Impact’’ in Abuja.

He said that NITDA currently has over 500 startups, that had either gone through its programmes or those that ran in partnership with other stakeholders within the ecosystem.

Based on statistics, he said, Nigeria had over 3000 startups, which was a far cry looking at the 200million population of the country.

He said the theme of the gathering was not only appropriate but also underscored the reality that collaboration was a new innovation leading competitive edge across all spheres of socio-economic activities.

Inuwa commended the efforts of ISN in sustaining this annual event, adding that its contribution to the growth of tech innovation ecosystem remains invaluable.

He also congratulated ISN on the successful launch of ‘Omniverse’, the premier ecosystem platform for tech, innovation, and connected industries on the continent.

The director general said that the initiative would go a long to build collaborations, connections, community, and content that drive the entire ecosystem to scale investments and share knowledge for a positive, lasting impact.

Inuwa said: ‘‘The inauguration of the Omniverse is a testament to your collaborative efforts with relevant stakeholders in the ecosystem.

“This annual gathering of tech innovation ecosystem stakeholders comprising researchers, creators, innovators, investors, regulators, and tech enthusiasts, provides a profitable platform for nurturing ideas into industry-changing products, services, and business processes.

‘‘Stakeholders also have the opportunity to network, connect, and foster new sustainable relationships with their relevant target audience and people.”

He said that there were quite a lot of challenges in terms of regulation and policies.

Inuwa said: “The StartUp Act aims to address the challenges in the ecosystem, providing funding, capacity building and infrastructure to the STartUps.

‘‘The tech industry thrives on collaboration. Research by the MIT Sloan School of Management revealed that collaborative innovation, where different organisations work together on research and development, has been on the rise.

‘‘Over 60 per cent of global innovation now involves some form of cross-organisational collaboration.

“In addition, a 2020 report by Microsoft indicates that over 95 per cent of Fortune 500 companies rely on Microsoft Cloud services, illustrating how digital collaboration is driving business operations and innovation.

‘‘These statistics are indicative of the fact that the world becoming is increasingly interconnected, interdependent, and collaborative.”

He, therefore, stated that collaboration was no longer an option, but a necessity for progress and growth.

Inuwa urged that all levels of government, corporations, investors, Venture Capitalists, the academia, hubs, and entrepreneurs must deepen their collaboration.

In her address, the Legal Partner to ISN, Beverly Agbakoba said by organising the summit it wanted to boast home grown and organic tech businesses, starting from home and stepping out to the larger world.

Agbakoba, who described ISN as the ‘Hub of hubs’ in Nigeria said over 200 hubs across Nigeria were gathered at the summit, with capacity building support, skill acquisition to engage other youth in job and wealth creation.

‘‘These hubs done a lot of advocacy training over 7000 girls in the north. We are also here to give guidance to the hubs. For us, future leaders are all in this room and are ready to contribute their quota to the economy.

‘‘We want to boast of home grown and organic tech businesses, starting from here and stepping out to the larger world. The law are not too far away from the industry,’’ she added.

She said the cardinal focus of gathering was to encourage and strengthen collaboration towards assisting innovators in discovering innovative and efficient solutions to the various problems confronting the economic, social, and governance realms.

‘‘Collaboration thrives when people with diverse knowledge, talents, and skills agree to work together to find solutions to our everyday problems.

“Innovative thinking that results in the creation of new goods, services, or procedures is the foundation of long-term economic progress and success,” she said.

The Director Corperate of ISN, Mrs Maryam Lawan said, ‘‘by this summit, we are bringing innovation support together under one umbrella to collaborate and achieve greater height.

“For us to win as a team, we need to come together ensure innovation and nurture talents and to network with enterprise support network.’

“ISN is also guiding startups on how to structure their business and provide them with right serves, as well as access to investment,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

By Razak Owolabi

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In a world where the term “digital age” signifies both remarkable opportunities and formidable challenges, staying ahead of the curve has become a necessity for business leaders.

The ever-evolving landscape of technology, globalization, and shifting stakeholder expectations demands a new breed of leadership.

TEXEM UK, a leading executive education provider, recently hosted a transformative programme, “Strategic Leadership for Success in a Digital Age,” designed to empower Nigerian senior executives with the skills needed to thrive in these unpredictable times.

The programme which took place from Aug. 21 to Aug.24 brought together distinguished faculty members, prominent speakers, and enthusiastic participants for an enriching experience that will undoubtedly shape the future of leadership.

The programme kicked off with a stimulating tourist visit to the Royal Airforce Museum on the first day, setting the stage for a week of immersive learning and reflection.

Participants not only had the opportunity to explore the fascinating history of aviation but also witnessed the importance of innovation and adaptability, qualities integral to strategic leadership in the digital age.

One of the programme’s special highlights was a visit to the London Chamber of Commerce, where participants delved into the realm of cybersecurity.

Andrew Clarke, an expert in the field, delivered an enlightening session, shedding light on the ever-present threat of cyber attacks and the strategic measures required to safeguard organizations in the digital realm.

Throughout the programme, participants had the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of topics, from strategic thinking to leadership in the digital age.

Areas the programme empowered participants to gain insights included;

Strategic Thinking and Problem Solving.

Participants developed leadership agility and capabilities for navigating ambiguity.

They also developed the skills necessary to make informed decisions in an ever-changing environment through case studies, group discussions, and interactive sessions.

Digital Transformation and Innovation is another area. The TEXEM programme empowered leaders to drive innovation and embrace digitalization effectively.

Participants gained insights into emerging technologies, business models, and customer-centric strategies crucial for success in today’s hyper-connected world.

The programme exposed participants to diverse viewpoints and cross-cultural insights this enhancing their global perspective.

This also prepared the leaders to navigate the complexities of a globalized business landscape and build inclusive, multicultural teams.

In the aspect of personal growth and transformation, the TEXEM programme encouraged self-awareness and personal development, helping the participants unlock their full potential.

The programme was led by a faculty of eminent and distinguished personalities, including Prof. John Peters (Former Chair of the Association of MBAs that Accredits, Harvard, INSEAD, Stanford & London Business).

There were also Prof. Paul Griffith (World’s first Professor of Management to lead a team to launch a rocket to space and Sir James Duddridge (Member of UK Parliament and former Minister who has served in three cabinets).

Another faculty was Prof. Roger Delves (Professor of Practice, who became a board leader at 30 years old and has helped hundreds of organisations to optimise their leadership quotient).

Prof. Hafiz Alaka (Founding Director of the Big Data Technologies and Innovation (BDTI) laboratory) and, Edite Ligere (Member of Assured Cyber Protection Group Advisory Board, and Member of the Bar Council’s and the Law Society’s joint Cyber Security Working Group) also enriched delegates with their knowledge.

These experts brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the programme, ensuring that participants gained valuable insights into leadership strategies and practices essential for success in today’s volatile and complex environment through applying TEXEM’s unique, tested, and proven methodologies.

One of the standout moments was the session on strategic thinking, which was deemed highly valuable by the attendees.

Testimonials were given by eminent resource persons on the efficacy of the TEXEM programme.

Delves, one of the programme’s faculty members mentioned earlier, affirmed that “Participants found the session on strategic thinking valuable as it explored and explained exactly what strategic thinking was.

“Why it was a mission-critical skill for senior leaders, and how they could better manage their time to allow time and space for this vital senior leader activity. TEXEM’s methodology made the session actionable, impactful, and memorable”.

He continued with his testimonial that “the programme was both stimulating and impactful, “Strategic Leadership in a digital age is required now more than ever before.

“The TEXEM programme equipped the participants with a unique insight into the challenges and threats in the digital age and helped develop strategies to mitigate them.

“I was able to discuss my experience of leadership in a digital age as an African Banker, dot com entrepreneur, and adviser to Boris Johnson and as a UK Government Minister in the UK, serving in five departments under three Prime Ministers”.

Duddridge, another eminent facilitator said of the programme:

“It was useful not only to explore the very real opportunities to lead in new ways but also to recognise the risks and how to mitigate them.

“Leadership in a digital age has changed leadership and how we communicate our vision for the better. Attendees are now better equipped to make the most of the resultant opportunities” .

Peters commented that “it pays to be a digital leader; the growth of emerging opportunities requires leaders to approach the future with a different mindset and execute a different operating model.

“It is not an ‘either/or’ approach, but rather an ‘and’ style of leadership. Leaders require a business strategy for the digital age, not a digital strategy.

“A digital reinvention includes both a digital strategy and organisational change. Digital Transformation is not about the technology: it is about the business and the customer.

“It cannot be achieved top-down but requires a bottom-up approach with every level engaged. And it is not a project with a start and end date, more a continuous process.

“The participants explored and shared their business issues across both public and private sectors and left with a greater understanding of the leadership capabilities required to succeed in the Digital Era, and a digital roadmap to build a future-ready, profitable enterprise”.

Also speaking on the programme, Ligere said “The digital age calls for a root and branch thoughtful examination of what it means to be a strategic leader these days.

“It calls for informed, enlightened, inspiring, responsible strategic stewardship through a rapidly changing societal and business landscape. It calls for cooperation.

“The strategic leader in the digital age is faced with challenges which are hard to understand, quantify or mitigate.

“TEXEM’s executive development programme, under the able and excellent leadership of Dr. Abubakre, provided vital insights to participants into the challenges of today and tomorrow.

“Participants actively engage with each other and with me on the critical topic of cyber resilience and what it means for their organisations.

“This is particularly so in a part of the world such as Africa which is increasingly pivotal in the current geopolitical power balancing.

“I was delighted to share my thoughts on cyber resilience as a barrister, advisory board member of a cyber-security company and perhaps most importantly as a human being in the digital age with the participants, encouraging discussion and a valuable exchange of ideas and new ways of thinking.

“As a result of participating in TEXEM’s executive development programme, participants are better informed about the cyber risks facing their strategic decision-making and more sensitive to the strategic approaches needed to quantify cyber risk to better serve their organisations as successful strategic leaders in the digital age.

“TEXEM UK’s approach to executive education is characterized by its commitment to making learning not just informative but also transformational.

“The programme provided a dynamic platform for senior leaders to exchange ideas, explore emerging trends, and develop actionable strategies for success in today’s digital landscape”.

Dr Alim Abubakre, Founder, TEXEM, UK also spoke on the Executive Development Programme “Strategic Leadership for Success in a Digital Age” .

“This programme designed to empower leaders with the actionable skills and insights needed to foster good governance, optimize strategic leadership performance, and drive organizations toward victory.

“We believe that by equipping leaders with the tools to make better ethical, informed decisions, we not only contribute to the success of individual organizations but also inspire good corporate citizenship on a global scale,” Abubakre said.

Testimonials from participants echoed the sentiment that this programme was a transformative experience.

Aliyu Saidu (Deputy Comptroller General, Training and Doctrine, Nigerian Customs Service) has this to say:

“Everything about this programme is very apt because my service is currently going through digital transformation.

“One of the major takeaways from this programme is that as a leader we should always innovate… our emphasis as leaders should be on a more strategic level rather than tactical, I can’t wait to return back to Nigeria… to implement right away” .

Another participant Edu Oluwatoyin (Bank Examiner, Deputy Director, Central Bank of Nigeria, Lagos), said:

“Wow! It’s so fully packed and the quality of the faculty is second to none… I think the quality of their presentation really got to me.

“I’ve realized… that practical and operational issues can be left to the middle level officers in the organization while I focus more on the strategy to deliver and make my organization better able to achieve its objective”.

The fusion of theoretical knowledge with practical application, coupled with the diverse perspectives shared by the faculty and fellow participants, made for a rich and rewarding learning environment.

TEXEM UK’s “Strategic Leadership for Success in a Digital Age” programme, has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on its participants.

The combination of esteemed faculty, immersive sessions, and hands-on experiences has equipped senior leaders with the tools and insights needed to excel in the fast-paced digital era.

This programme serves as a testament to TEXEM UK’s unwavering dedication to fostering leadership excellence and innovation in a rapidly changing world.

As organizations continue to navigate the complexities of the digital age, the leaders who participated in this programme are poised to lead with wisdom, foresight, and resilience, ensuring a brighter future for their respective organizations and industries. (NANFeatures)

**If used, please credit the writer as well as News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

GetBundi Education Technology and Womenovate LLC have announced a strategic partnership that would strengthen their drive and commitment toward empowering African youths and women with digital skills to be relevant in the 21st century economy.

Mr Osita Oparaugo, Founder/CEO of GetBundi, in a statement in Lagos on Thursday, said that partnering with Womenovate was an avenue to give African youths and women the opportunity and the right platforms to acquire the much-needed digital skills.

“Today, GetBundi and Womenovate have come together and I can’t wait to see the amazing things we will achieve together for the greater benefit of the African youth.

“Our focus shall be on those who are potentially left behind, especially women,” Oparaugo said.

“Every time we come together on this journey of upskilling the African workforce, Africa wins because Africa’s young generation can only be beneficial to the continent if they acquire the right skills that run the modern economy.

“GetBundi’s position and vision is clear: reskilling and upskilling the African workforce so that the teeming African youths will be gainfully employed and globally competitive in a world that has technologically evolved and will keep evolving,” he said.

Founder of Womenovate, Mrs Motunrayo Opayinka, described the coming together as “a transformative partnership in empowerment progress between two organisations dedicated to creating positive change in Africa”.

“The partnership holds immense promise for the continent and, most importantly, for the women who call Africa home,” she said.

According to him, Womenovate was founded with the singular vision to empower women across Africa and enable them to harness their full potential by fostering innovation, sustainable development and economic growth.

According to him, GetBundi, with its work in technology, infrastructure and entrepreneurship, has emerged as a strong force that has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to driving economic growth and innovation across Africa.

“The partnership between Womenovate and GetBundi represents an exciting synergy of our shared values and objectives.

“Together, we believe we can achieve remarkable things for the people of Africa, with a particular focus on the empowerment and advancement of women,” Opayinka said in a statement.

She further said that the joint efforts of Womenovate and GetBundi would lead to enhanced opportunities, economic empowerment, education and skills development.

“It will also lead to leadership and representation, community development, innovation and progress, as well as advocacy and awareness.

“This partnership signifies our unwavering commitment to the people of Africa and our determination to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment on the continent.

“Together, we are stronger, more resilient and better equipped to tackle the complex challenges that lie ahead.

“We invite all stakeholders, supporters, and allies to join us in this exciting journey. By working together, we can unlock Africa’s full potential and create a brighter, more equitable future for everyone,” she said.

GetBundi Education Technology is a government-approved online education technology platform designed to deliver high quality, engaging and accessible Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and English Language subjects for the six years of secondary school education.

It also delivers digital skills courses for everyone across Africa.

The company projects to support the upskilling of 10 million African youths in the next 10 years through STEM and STI digital skills acquisition via a strategy tagged “The GetBundi Vision 2033”.

Womenovate LLC is a pioneering and innovative company dedicated to empowering women, promoting gender diversity and fostering a culture of inclusivity across STEM sectors.

Founded in 2021, Womenovate has quickly established itself as a trailblazer in advancing women’s rights, opportunities and representation in both corporate and entrepreneurial settings.(NAN)

By Jessica Dogo

The MTN Chief Enterprise Officer, Lynda Saint-Nwafor, says 5th Generation partnership will open doors to a world of possibilities in education.

Saint-Nwafor spoke at the tripartite event hosted by MTN in partnership with Huawei and Baze University on Wednesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the partnership came with the signing of a Memoradum of Understanding (MoU) to the launch of 5G education in Nigeria.

In a recorded video she said the partnership is a prove of shared vision and commitment.

“The partnership with Baze University, Huawei and MTN symbolises our shared commitment to harnessing the power of 5G to unlock unprecedented opportunities for educational institutions and businesses across Nigeria.

“We believe that 5G will transform how we teach and learn, expand access to quality education, and enable remote learning like never before.

“This, indeed, positions Baze University as a model for educational excellence where the boundaries of traditional education are redefined.

“Huawei, our partner on this ground-breaking collaboration, brings onboard its expertise and legacy of driving digital transformation.

“Together, the full potential of 5G technology to enhance educational outcomes will be unlocked.”

She said that the synergy with this tripartite partnership was a transformative force that would propel towards a future where education knows no boundaries.

“This is a testament to what can be achieved when visionary organizations come together with a shared purpose,” she said.

In his remarks, the Key Account Director of Huawei, Nigeria, Joey Wu, said that the Tripartite partnership of 5G to Education plan by the Baze University would revolutionise education in Nigeria.

“We are witnessing the launch of 5G to Education at Baze University in partnership with, this actually marks a milestone because this marks the first 5G initiative in the education sector in Nigeria.

“MTN, Baze University and Huawei has embarked on a revolutionary journey to redefine education in Nigeria.

“The 5G education plan at Baze University is not just a plan but a bold step into the future, hologram and visuals we show you here are tools that will revolutionise the way our students learn and interact with their environment.

“We will continue to explore the limitless opportunities that come with 5G to the education sector, business and the medics alike as Nigeria continues in her journey towards technical excellence.” He said

Earlier, the acting Vice-Chancellor, Baze University, Kathleen Ebele, said, with the increase of courses and students the use of technology would ease lecturing and research.

“This partnership is going to lead us to teach more intelligently in a digital time. We have courses increasing and students increasing. So we need to partner Huawei in this excercise.

“The cost implication is that we have invested heavily in this and all partners are looking at the long term.

“This partnership will improve the quality of delivering lectures, research and we will have more space to work with and more platforms to work with.

“We have an MoU in place a tripitit MTN, Baze University and Huawei. As you know we are trail blazers in Africa especially in Africa and the best place to start with.

“You can see how developed our infrastructure is. Our people are well schooled for what we have ahead of us; that’s why they chose us, we didn’t choose them but they chose us,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

By Ahmed Kaigama

The  Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Thursday sensitised the general public on the telecommunication frauds.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that NCC did the sensitisation, tagged: “Shine Your Eye No Fall Mugu”.at Multipurpose hall in Bauchi metropolis.

Mr Umar Alkassim, Director Consumer Affairs of the Commission, said the sensitisation was to protect the public from fraudsters electronically.

He said that the sensitisation was also to promote initiatives such as to empower telecom consumers with knowledge for their protection within the telecom industry.

Alkassim, represented by Mr Banji Ojo, Head of Consumer Policy Development and Monitoring, said many people are ignorant of how losing their phones to fraudsters can lead to frauds of their bank accounts.

“These fraudsters do this by stealing victims’ identities, names, addresses, bank information, which they use in gaining access to their bank accounts.

“They also use the stolen identities to defraud other people and even apply for loans, leaving the victim with debts.

“The telecom industry evolves, there is a growing concern over the rising trend of fraud on telecom electronic fraud,” he said.

Alkassim said that the commission collaborates with critical stakeholders such as the CBN, the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), EFCC, ICPC and other relevant age video in the fight against e-banking fraudsters.

On his part, Mr Adamu Gital, a Director in the Bauchi State Ministry of Cooperative and Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Development commended the NCC for the initiative.

He said the initiative would help consumers to learn about protecting their financial transactions electronically.(NAN)

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

The Federal Government on Thursday says it is committed to the protection of digital platforms to build the confidence of the citizens while online.

Dr Bosun Tijani,Minister of Communications,Innovation and Digital Economy made the commitment at a 2-day sensitisation workshop on Data Privacy and Protection in Abuja.

The workshop,organised by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), targeted to sensitise the public on the requirements of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA).

Tijani said that builing a structure around regulation of data privacy and protection was important to the journey of the nation towards digitalisation.

“Data privacy is not just a matter of convenience,it is a fundamental human right and we should care about the data we generate and what it is being used for.

“As we embrace the digital age, it is crucial that personal and sensitive information of our citizens is maintained under the eyes of confidentiality.

“We are committed as a government to ensuring that every Nigerian can trust the digital platforms that he uses,knowing that his personal data will not be misused.

“We are taking proactive steps to strengthen our data protection framework as evident in setting up of NDPC.

“We are working with stakeholders including the National Assembly to enact robust data protection laws that are aligned with international standards,” he said.

Tijani said.that data privacy and protection involved holding organisations accountable on how they collect and process data.

He said:*We will also normalise the culture of transparency among our citizens so that everyone is fully aware of how his data is used.”

Tijani said that the government will collaborate with all the stakeholders to ensure that Nigerians were aware of their rights and how they can protect their digital identity.

He further said that data protection was not the sole responsibility of government, adding, “every individual should ensure people understand the value of their data and how they can protect themselves.”

Tijani admonished Data Protection Officers (DPOs), Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government to ensure data privacy and protection.

“We must be responsible for this as we are the faces citizens interact with, it is important that we model what we want to see in the society.

“The digital economy is an era of growth and innovation that requires that we nurture it,” he said.

The minister further said that President Bola Tinubu believed in the power of digital economy,hence the need to prioritise the implementation of stronger data security and protection.

The minister emphasised that data privacy and protection conversation should go beyond technicalities,adding that they should become values upheld strongly.

“As a minister,am personally committed to this and I ask that you all join us to work towards the Nigeria where everyones data is protected and secured,” Tijani said.

The National Commissioner of NDPC,Dr Vincent Olatunji, said the commission was engaging on rigorous sensitisation on the NDPA, capacity building of DPOs and Nigerians.

Olatunji decried that the country requires over 500,000 certified DPOs because the skill is lacking.

“We have the people but the skill is lacking, there is need for us to reskill and retool.

“Another thing is the technology that will be used to drive data protection, we need indigenous solutions that can assist build data protection ecosystem,” he said.

Olatunji said that there were so many vulnerable Nigerians who disclose and misuse their data ignorant of the risks.

“In Nigeria, we have over 60 million Nigerians involved in gaming out of over 200 million people and most of these people don’t care about their data,they are vulnerable groups.

“We are working with the regulator of that sector, the Nigeria Lottery Regulatory Commission to ensure they see and understand data Protection as a major thing,” he said.

Olatunji added that the commission was working on a Memorandum of Understanding that would guide activities in the sector,among other engagements.

Mr Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA),said that data was the currency of digital economy.

Inuwa explained that new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence were sourcing for data to give people personalised experience,hence the need to beware of vital information available in the public domain.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that over 200 people participated at the workshop consisting of DPOs and MDAs, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

By Deji Abdulwahab

Sen. Chris Adighije has urged Abia Government to come up with robust mechanisms that will ensure 21st century science and technological transfers, to build modern industrial complexes in the state.

Adighije gave the advice in a statement issued in Abuja on Monday while congratulating the government and people of Abia on the 32th Anniversary of the state.

“As our dear state marks its 32th Anniversary, I use this opportunity to call on friends and the people of Abia State, within and outside the state, to remain optimistic that the state would triumph despite lost years.

“Abia State remains one of the few states in the country with the potential for growth, especially considering our technological and commerce feats.

“We need to come up with robust mechanisms that will ensure 21st century science and technological transfers, to build modern industrial complexes in our state.”

According to him, this would absorb the hundreds, if not thousands of graduates produced every year by tertiary institutions in the state.

“We must enlarge various fora, or create such if they don’t exist, where we galvanize efforts that would complement the state government’s infrastructural, and social economic drive to reposition the state.

“This, no doubt would reduce, if not completely obliterate the incidence of violent crimes in our communities.

“It will also allow value for investments, as it would guarantee the safety of repatriated efforts, whether finances, materials, or in whatever guise,” Adighije said.

According to him, nowhere in the world is anything done for a people who don’t wake up to take their destinies in their hands.

“As we mark this anniversary and look forward to a 33 year anniversary for our motherland, in 2024, let’s remember that a developed Abia is for the good of us all because as they say, “North, East, South, West, home is the best.

“Permit me to seize this opportunity to congratulate our progressive, result oriented Gov. Alex Otti, on this occasion of the 32th Anniversary of our “God’s Own State.”

Adighije, who congratulated the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, called on residents to join hands with the state government to take the state to greater heights.

According to him, Abia people have many reasons to be grateful on our march to our promised land.

“One of such reasons is the awareness that epic centres such as Araria market, among others, continue to pull visitors from far and wide, thereby placing us on the world map.

“This is also shoring up the State’s internally generated revenue,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Isaac Aregbesola