NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Centralised data key to tackling insecurity, economic woes – BRISIN
Science & Tech

Centralised data key to tackling insecurity, economic woes – BRISIN

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By Angela Atabo

The Basic Registry and Information System in Nigeria (BRISIN) has been identified as a critical tool in addressing Nigeria’s persistent issues of insecurity and economic instability.

Dr Anthony Uwa, Head of BRISIN Implementation in Nigeria, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

According to him, BRISIN is an integrated data and information infrastructure designed for real-time data governance across all sectors of the economy and government.

He explained that in May 2007, the Federal Government signed a service agreement for the implementation of BRISIN, selecting the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for the pilot phase.

 “However, 18 years later, the system is yet to be implemented, in spite of its numerous benefits.”

Uwa emphasised that effective governance and sustainable development were impossible without a reliable and comprehensive data infrastructure.

“You cannot run a government without data governance that guides decisions on national security, social systems, economic planning, revenue generation, and democratic development,” he said.

He added that BRISIN could support sectors such as rural development, employment, diaspora integration, migration control, and social welfare.

“Nigeria lacks a foundational system because there is no data and information infrastructure.

“You can’t solve problems like insecurity, unemployment, or economic instability without it,” Uwa stressed.

He noted that BRISIN was conceived during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration as a fundamental infrastructure to drive lasting change and attract both local and foreign investment.

He also said it would help Nigeria access international grants and funding, identify Nigerians at home and abroad, and provide reliable demographic data.

“With BRISIN in place, Nigeria would command more respect globally, operate credibly, and manage governance effectively. Unfortunately, the FCT Minister is yet to activate the pilot phase,” he added.

Uwa revealed that the Italian government, through the MATEI Programme for Africa, approved 600 million dollars for BRISIN in Nigeria.

“However, the release is pending a letter from the FCT confirming the project’s commencement and counterpart funding, still not submitted 14 months later.”

He urged FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to act swiftly, stating that implementing BRISIN in the capital would modernise the city and improve governance structures.

Uwa added that the system had the potential to generate up to N1.5 trillion annually in internally generated revenue (IGR) by effectively monitoring and controlling all economic activities within the FCT.

Also speaking, Mr Lorenzo Santangelo, Director at Dermo Impex Nigeria Ltd, the BRISIN solution providers, said the system could create up to 10 million jobs in Nigeria.

He explained that by integrating data systems across all ministries and agencies, governance would become more efficient and credible.

“When every government body has access to the same accurate data, it becomes easier to identify needs, streamline services, and eliminate duplication,” Santangelo said.

He added that BRISIN would improve national planning by tracking population movements, consumer preferences, and regional needs, informing decisions on infrastructure, imports, and public services.

“Credibility comes when citizens are properly identified from birth, with clear data on their parents and place of origin.

“This builds a foundation for proper governance and national development,” he added. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Research coy advocates data-driven solutions for grass-root governance
Science & Tech

Research coy advocates data-driven solutions for grass-root governance

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By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

A research and advisory company, Veriv Africa, is advocating for data-driven solutions to address governance and reforms across the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the country.

Ms Omotayo Faro, Managing Director of the company said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

Faro said that local governance reforms had become necessary following the 2024 Supreme Court judgment that upheld local government autonomy in the country.

She said that the company had begun research on local governance, strengthening initiatives in collaboration with Nigerian Youth Futures Fund (NYFF), starting with Kaduna State.

“Through this NYFF-supported initiative, Veriv Africa aims to equip local governments and civil society with data to strengthen service delivery, empower youth and communities to hold decision-makers accountable.

“This will demonstrate a scalable model for governance reform across the 774 LGAs.

“Improving governance begins at the grassroots and the data-driven solutions will put communities at the centre of development,” she said.

She said that the project focused on five LGAs in9 Kaduna state, which include Chikun, Igabi, Kaduna North, Kaduna South and Zaria.

She said that the project assessed the gaps in governance such as agriculture, healthcare, education, vocational services as well as Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH).

“It offers vital, evidence-based insights into the realities of service delivery and development at the local level.

“The insights can help to prepare Kaduna and other Nigerian states for a more accountable, transparent and community-driven future.

“The assessment revealed that the education sector in Kaduna State suffers from chronic underfunding, with more than 90 per cent of respondents reporting inadequate learning materials.

“In the healthcare sector, in spite of the physical presence of Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs), service delivery is hampered by inadequate infrastructure and staffing.

“More than 59 per cent of respondents reported the absence of doctors or nurses in their local PHCs, raising serious concerns about access to quality care,” she said.

She further said that the assessment showed that the agricultural practices in the state had been constrained by insecurity, poor access to inputs, inadequate extension services and weak market systems.

According to her, farmers continue to face barriers, with many citing government interventions as inaccessible or ineffective.

“In WASH, residents of Kaduna LGAs face widespread water shortages and poor sanitation, while over 93 per cent of respondents experience water scarcity in the previous three months.

“Another challenge is poor toilet facilities, thereby contributing to poor public health outcomes,” Faro said.

She urged policymakers, development partners and civil society actors to collaborate on scalable reforms across LGAs and also get the details of the report on www.verivafrica.com.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Veriv Africa is a research and advisory company dedicated to leveraging data, technology and domain expertise to transform data into actionable intelligence. (NAN)

Edited by Fatima Sule Abdullahi/Kadiri Abdulrahman

FUTD inaugurates transportation data framework committees
Metro

FUTD inaugurates transportation data framework committees

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By Gabriel Agbeja

The Federal University of Transportation, Daura (FUTD), Katsina State on Wednesday inaugurated the two committees to carry out  the national research on transportation data framework in the country.

Dr Muiz Banire, the FUTD Chairman of Governing Council, made the disclosure during the university’s fifth council`s meeting in Abuja.

According to him, the council has established a committee on Framework for the collection of Baseline Data and Research on Transportation Indices in Nigeria.

He said the committee would address current gaps in road, rail, air, and water transport indices, ranging from vehicle usage patterns and traffic volumes to accident rates, public transport demand and environmental impacts.

Banire said the council also established a committee on the Significance of History and Impacts of Trans-Saharan Route and Trade.

He said the committee would deal with trans-saharan routes and trade that cut across northern to central Africa.

According to him, such development is not just an academic pursuit but a national imperative.

“The University Council recently approved these projects, which will be implemented under the leadership of Prof. Odewumi Samuel, former Dean of Lagos State University’s School of Transport and Logistics.

“Also, Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, former Vice-Chancellor, Kwararafa University, Wukari and immediate past Secretary-General of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities.

“The two research projects represent a transformative step toward building a robust, data-driven transportation policy ecosystem in Nigeria and the historical perspective of the trans-Saharan route and trade that cut across northern to central Africa,” he said.

Speaking, the FUTD Vice Chancellor, Prof. Umar Katsayal, said that the absence of consistent baseline data on transportation indicators had long hindered strategic planning, investment, and reform in Nigeria’s transport sector.

The vice chancellor said the knowledge of what happened during the trans-Saharan trade in Nigeria ought to be well researched into.

He added that the committees would focus on developing a standardised and technology-supported framework for systematically collecting, managing, and analysing transport data nationwide.

“Reliable data is the bedrock of infrastructure development, policy formulation, safety management, and economic growth. We are proud to lead this pioneering initiative in the interest of national development.

“The multimillion research initiatives, funded internally and through anticipated partnerships, will draw upon local expertise and global best practices.

“Field activities are scheduled across multiple States. It also involves partnerships with relevant government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and civil society to ensure inclusive and sustainable outcomes, “ it said.

According to him, key research outcomes will include a national transportation data framework, policy recommendations for improved governance and strengthened institutional capacity for transport planning and monitoring.

Prof. Odewumi Samuel, the Leader of the Committee on “Framework for the collection of Baseline Data and Research on Transportation Indices in Nigeria described the national project as a feedback of FUTD to the society.

Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, the Leader of the Committee on the “Significance of History and Impacts of Trans-Saharan Route and Trade “said the efforts of the committee would definitely strengthen the African Free Trade Act. (NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

Nigeria joins global cross-border privacy forum
Science & Tech

Nigeria joins global cross-border privacy forum

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By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

Nigeria has joined the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) Forum as an associate member to explore better ways of cross-border data transfers and data protection.

Dr Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission(NDPC) made the announcement on Wednesday at a media briefing organised ahead of the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA) conference and annual general meeting in Abuja.

The conference is expected to hold on May 6 to May 8 and will be focusing on “Balancing Innovation in Africa, Data Privacy and Protection in Emerging Technologies.”

Olatunji said that the move is seen as a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy and demonstrating its commitment to data protection and privacy standards.

The Global CBPR Forum, established in 2022, aims to facilitate the free flow of data and promote cooperation on data protection and privacy globally.

He recalled the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) in June 2023 by President Bola Tinubu, which had mandated NDPC to decide for the adequacy of data protection, taking into account enforcement of data subjects rights in other countries.

“Seasoned experts have been lined up to lead discussions in areas concerning the African digital economy, AI in African privacy paradox, regulatory approaches to data privacy in Africa, especially in the area of emerging technologies which have different approaches.

“We also have topics on data protection in the area of fintech, balancing innovation with privacy, the single digital market in the spirit of Africa free trade zone, among others.

“These issues are all important in the Fourth Industrial Revolution where data constantly flows across borders for various reasons including health, education, tourism, e-commerce and more.

“In this regard, Nigeria is exploring various cross-border data frameworks as provided under the NDPA for the purpose of safeguarding data subjects rights and protecting Nigeria’s data sovereignty.

“To this end, we are pleased to announce our intention to join the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR)Forum as an associate member,” Olatunji said.

He stated that other mechanisms for exploring cross-border data transfers included the existence of national legislation on data protection, establishment of an independent data protection authority to serve as regulator when it comes to data processing in various countries.

“We also approve binding corporate rules, conducts, standards of operation and certification mechanisms for cross-border data transfer.

“Nigeria will have the opportunity to observe the procedure of ensuring accountability within organisations during cross-border data transfers and ensure that indigenous cross-border data organisations are able to leverage accountability procedures.

“This framework will ensure that organisations will have more options in cross-border transfer of personal data and relevant safeguards for data protection under the NDPA are painstakingly implemented,” he said.

He said that the government was in the process of setting up a strategic task team of stakeholders  for the purpose of cross pollination of ideas in the area of cross-border data transfer, while considering the beneficial use of data for sustainable development in Nigeria.

Olatunji said that the NADPA event would attract over 1000 delegates from 30 African countries, technocrats from Asia, Europe, Middle East and North America.

He said the conference would feature constructive interactions, live sessions, breakout sessions, among other events and also showcase exhibitions, visitation of tourist sites in the FCT, thereby promoting the richness in Nigeria’s cultural heritage and people.

“The opportunity to host NADPA is one of the opportunities we are taking to foster trust and confidence in our digital economy.

“This commission is fully convinced that through this trust, Nigerian businesses and entrepreneurs will have more opportunities to create jobs and generate wealth as projected under the eight Presidential priority areas.”

Mrs Christine Harbaugh, U. S. Embassy’s Acting-Deputy Chief of Missions, said Nigeria’s membership as an associate member of CBPR showed the country’s commitment and leadership in the global digital economy and clear message on being open for digital business.

Harbaugh recognised Nigeria’s growth in digital growth and  transformation, with startups, companies driving innovation in different sectors.

“By beginning the process of aligning with the CBPR Forum, Nigeria is further solidifying its position as a global hub for digital business and innovation.

“This move tells U.S. and global tech companies and investors that the Nigerian market presents tangible global opportunities.

“In today’s interconnected world, the safety and sanctity of cross-border data flows are paramount and as data becomes the lifeblood of the digital era, it is essential that we establish robust frameworks to protect it.

“By joining the CBPR Forum, Nigeria is taking a proactive step to ensure that data transferred across borders is handled with high standards of privacy and security,” she said.

According to her, this move will not only protect U.S. and Nigerian citizens’ personal data but also build trust with international partners.

She said that the global CBPR forum created spaces for those handling personal data to come together around common data protection, privacy interests and build trust in cross-border flows of data.

“The CBPR Forum promotes interoperability and helps to bridge different regulatory approaches to data protection and privacy.

“By joining the Global Forum, Nigeria becomes part of a committed international community working to reduce data protection risks and ensure strong safeguards travel with the data no matter where it is transferred.

“This commitment to data protection will enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable partner in the global digital economy,”Harbaugh said.

She stated that approximately 60 per cent of Nigerian startups were incorporated in the United States and facilitating cross-border data flows would increase the ability of such companies to service U.S. and Nigerian clients and further fuel the growing digital trade.

“We are excited about the opportunities this will bring and look forward to working closely with our Nigerian partners to build a secure and prosperous digital future,” she said.

NADPA is a body that was established for the African data governance ecosystem to deepen the advancement of data subjects rights, foster responsible data flows within and across jurisdictions, among other functions (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Fake Certificates: FGN issues Education Databank Proclamation
General News

Fake Certificates: FGN issues Education Databank Proclamation

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The Federal Executive Council has approved the commencement of the various activities that constitute the Nigeria Education Repository and Databank (NERD) programme sequel to the fulfilment of due process.

 

This is contained in the Declaration of Effectiveness signed by Dr Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education.

 

According to Alausa, the Declaration provides clarity on the NERD Programme which has been set up as a national technology tool.

 

He added that it is jointly owned by all post-secondary schools and tertiary institutions in Nigeria and their regulatory agencies such as the National University Commission, the National Board for Technical Education, and the National Commission for Colleges of Education as well as the National Library of Nigeria in collaboration with the private sector.

 

The NERD Programme is a product of rigorous stakeholders’ engagement and is applicable to all education delivery schools or institutions within the higher education spectrum in Nigeria regardless of ownership type, whether public, private, civilian or military.

 

The programme applies in equal measure to institutes with charters of the National Assembly, schools or colleges of nursing, schools or colleges of agriculture and other education delivery post-secondary schools notwithstanding whether they are under or outside the supervision of the federal or state Ministry of Education.

 

The Declaration emphasised that the nation is deliberately pivoting away from hitherto reliance and dependence on products and foreign businesses and organisations in the storage, preservation, archiving, administration, and verification of her academic records, education data, and body of knowledge.

 

The NERD Programme is to “mitigate these in the overriding national interest and strategic national security concerns as well as end capital flight from previous dependence upon foreign products and services in education data management”.

 

According to the Minister, apart from the module that makes the deposit of a final academic report into a central national database an obligatory requirement for a student in any accredited school nationwide after a mandatory anti-plagiarism check, a major reform tool in the NERD Programme is the introduction of a National Credential Number (NCN) and a frame QR code which is now to be affixed unobtrusively on every result, certificate, diploma, or transcript emanating from any accredited post-secondary school and tertiary institution in Nigeria, a tool to make each credential instantly verifiable.

 

The NCN is to be administered under the National Credential Verification Service (NCVS) of the NERD Programme in line with the approved National Policy on NERD with revenues reverting to each institution.

 

Another significant new service is the requirement for onboarding of all successfully admitted students post-JAMB into the National Students’ Clearing House of the NERD system for the administration of the National Student Number, a requirement that will create a yearly national academic digital footprint to measure the progress of each scholar through school years being an intentional provision designed to frustrate ‘arrangee’ degrees and diplomas and make national planning detailed and more accurate.

 

In the Declaration, Alausa announced the decisive launch of the NCVS as a systemic quality assurance check nationwide to curtail academic fraud which threatens the integrity of the education sector due to the activities of merchants of fake degrees, qualification fraud, phoney certificates, as well as bogus unearned honours from unaccredited institutions and diploma mills.

 

Alausa added that other new national services that have been approved as part of the project’s full business case include the establishment of the National Repository of Knowledge for the mandatory deposit of all final year project reports, thesis, dissertations and yearly term papers.

 

Others are the establishment of the National Credential Verification Centre as the national flagship in the deployment of technology in the elimination of qualification fraud instantiated by fake certificates, results, and transcripts, and the approval of Offtaker’s Monetisation Rewards (OMR) for students and lecturers based on data mining activities relating to their publications.

 

Also, the Minister stated that “having observed the increasing financial challenges of publications in High Impact journals with the attendant capital flights, the Federal Executive Council, as a deliberate mitigation strategy, has approved that the NERD system will, in addition, create, host, and administer official special databases of NERD-indexed-journals which shall employ experienced reviewers locally and internationally.

 

“(This is) in order to serve as a credible national equivalent to journal indexes like China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Indonesia Garuda Indexing, SCImago, SCOPUS, etc.”

 

Alausa added that “NERD-indexed-journals are now designated by the Federal Government of Nigeria as Special National Indexes of Academic Publications (SNIAP) available to willing Nigerian academics and promoters of institutional journals and shall be acceptable for promotion and research/academic career advancement purposes and peerage privileges presently associated with their foreign equivalents such as SCOPUS, SCImago, etc across all tertiary institutions in Nigeria.”

 

The Minister explained that the Nigeria Education Databank branded as the NERD was a national flagship, an electronic platform and a one-stop-shop for the national management, administration, and preservation of education data, records, documents and audio-visual assets that is poised to address specific challenges in the education sector.

 

He clarified that NERD has been deliberately designed to establish a no-conflict framework aimed at striking a patriotic balance between tertiary institutions’ legitimate autonomy and the overriding strategic national interest.

 

Meanwhile, as part of measures to ensure the smooth implementation of the project, the Federal Executive Council has constituted a Governing Council for the Nigeria Education Repository and Databank with the Minister of Education as Chairman.

 

Other members of the Council include the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, the Executive Secretaries of the NUC, NBTE, and NCCE, and the National Librarian and Chief Executive of the National Library of Nigeria.

 

Also on the Council are the Chairmen/Chairpersons of the Association or Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, Association or Committee of Rectors of Nigerian Polytechnics, and Association or Committee of Provosts of Nigerian Colleges of Education.

 

Other members of the Council are the Chief Executive of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission in the Federal Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy, the Chief Executive of the National Education Repository and Databank Limited, and the Secretary of the NERD Limited.

 

The Minister acknowledged the challenges ahead, saying “with a new system or technology comes a learning curve and an extensive need for change management, but rest assured, we are committed to providing comprehensive training and support to our educators.

 

“The NERD project will make substantial impacts on the ways we do things. It shall be transformative and promote a quality education ecosystem. The public is enjoined to embrace this transformation with an open heart and a sense of adventure, for it is our collective dedication and adaptability that will lead us to success.

 

“By this proclamation, the National Education Repository and Databank (NERD) system is now effective throughout Nigeria from the 4th of February 2025 being the date of approval by the Federal Executive Council,” he said.

 

Pursuant to Article 6.1.22 of the National Policy on the NERD, the directives of the Federal Executive Council are to be communicated to all Governing Councils and tertiary institutions’ managements by the NUC, NBTE, and NCCE.

 

It will be recalled that the Federal Executive Council had in 2023 approved the establishment of the NERD and the National Policy for its implementation and operation while a meeting of stakeholders from across the nation’s universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and other key sectors was held on the Nov. 21, 2023.

President Bola Tinubu is said to have directed the retention of copyright in favour of the original author and that the project must support a reward mechanism for academics, especially as he is desirous of leading the nation to attain commercial dominance in education data management across Africa.

 

This, the president said, was to position the country for the global electronic document management market estimated to reach USD 9.85 billion by 2027.

 

The NERD Programme is to be fully financed by the private sector to the tune of sixty-eight million, eight hundred thousand dollars.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Data ecosystem has capacity to drive trillion dollar economy – NDPC 
Science & Tech

Data ecosystem has capacity to drive trillion dollar economy – NDPC 

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By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) says the data privacy ecosystem has the capacity to drive Nigeria to a trillion dollar economy.

Its National Commissioner, Dr Vincent Olatunji, said this at a news conference to commemorate the 2025 Global Privacy Day, in Abuja.

Beginning from Europe in 2008, the day highlights the significance of privacy and data protection.

The NDPC commissioner said that through the implementation of the pillars of its Nigeria Data Protection-Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (NDP-SRAP), localised technology adoption and global collaborations, indigenous data privacy could contribute to the growth of the economy.

“We can’t keep relying on foreign technologies for what we are doing here, so our local content must be encouraged.

“In NDPC, our platforms, the services, portal, and websites are locally developed, and they are very robust enough for us to use.

“This can drive technologies and we are talking of operating a trillion dollar economy for this country that will be driven by digital technologies.

“The private ecosystem alone can convey a lot of services that are being offered and you can imagine audit files alone, registration of data controllers, reporting breaches. A lot is going on and even creating awareness through various platforms,” he said.

He also encouraged startups to key into the data privacy ecosystem, adding that there was immense potential.

Speaking on the day, Olatunji highlighted the universality of data privacy principles but stressed the need for adapting them to local laws.

He urged stakeholders to leverage the knowledge of data protection not only within Nigeria but also on a global scale.

“All we want is for you to adapt the local laws of wherever you want to practice. The principles of data protection and security are the same worldwide and the knowledge you acquire here can take you anywhere,” he said.

Olatunji noted the immense potential in Nigeria’s data ecosystem, saying the nation’s human capital development remains critical to advancing its digital economy.

According to him, NDPC places significant focus on building capacity while encouraging the development of indigenous digital technologies to reduce reliance on foreign solutions.

He reiterated the NDPC’s commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration through initiatives that strengthen data privacy awareness, compliance and enforcement.

He stated that Nigeria’s acceptance into the Global Privacy Assembly (GPA) and the hosting rights of the 2025 Network of African Data Protection Authorities conference was a testament that the country had demonstrated a good traction in data protection initiatives.

Olatunji highlighted that a robust data protection framework was a key factor for attracting multinational investments, ensuring compliance with global standards and safeguarding the rights of data subjects.

The commissioner said that the commission had signed Memoranda of Understanding with data protection authorities in Canada and United Arab Emirates, to ensure cross-border knowledge sharing on data privacy.

“Our law applies even when Nigerian data is processed outside the country and collaborating with foreign data protection agencies allows us to exchange knowledge effectively,” he said.

Olatunji stated that the commission had in the past engaged in a series of awareness campaigns, trained 55,529 individuals on data privacy, had 5,351 capacity building programmes, among other engagements.

Highlight of the event included the launch of the NDPC International Journal of Data Privacy and Protection and the release of the commission’s 2024 annual report.(NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

FG unveils national data protection certification programme
Science & Tech

FG unveils national data protection certification programme

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By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) on Monday launched the National Certification Programme for Data Protection Officers (DPOs).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 500 DPOs are expected to be trained in the first cohort of the programme, targeted at bridging the gap in data protection across the country.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, said that President Bola Tinubu was committed to transforming Nigeria into a $1 trillion economy, hence the need to develop the digital economy sector.

He highlighted the role of the digital economy, saying that it currently contributed 14 per cent to 16 per cent to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) with plans to increase it to 21 per cent within the next few years.

“We have a President that is taking bold decisions that may cause us some initial pains as a people, but will lead to a strong foundation for a future that will be inclusive and prosperous for every member of this country.

“President Bola Tinubu mentioned his intention and dedication to driving our economy to becoming a $1 trillion economy.

“Many people may not understand what that means but the implication is that if you have a country that is close to half a billion people, you have to provide job opportunities, and the only way you can do that is by growing the GDP of the country.

“It is only through economic activities and developing the digital economy that we can truly provide many meaningful jobs for our people,” he said.

Tijani reflected on Nigeria’s telecommunications revolution since 1999, noting its transformative impact on communication, financial services, and business operations.

He, however, raised concerns about the vulnerabilities posed by increased connectivity, particularly in data privacy and security.

The minister stressed the importance of building trust to ensure the success of digital technologies, innovation, and economic growth.

He urged the beneficiaries of the programme to leverage the opportunity, adding that it was government’s unique investment in their future and contribution to national development.

According to Tijani, a strong digital economy relies on skilled individuals and trust, without which Nigeria risks falling behind.

The National Commissioner of NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, said that with the adoption of emerging technologies, the World Economic Forum had projected in 2020 that 92 million jobs would be lost in six years.

Olatunji, however, noted that 170 million skills set and new jobs could be created as well, and they required digital skills.

He recalled that the Commission conducted a survey of data controllers and processors and discovered that over 500,000 data controllers and processors existed and needed to be employed as data protection officers.

The NDPC boss, however, said the skills were lacking, hence the need for them to train certified DPOs.

“In line with the Public-Private Partnership model, which we have started with implementing the Nigeria Data Protection Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan.

“We came up with this idea of training and paying for the generation of data protection officers who will now be certified,” he said.

Olatunji also said it decided to train the DPOs, to reduce the burden of cost associated with data protection certification.

Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), advocated for skills and knowledge acquisition and certification, saying it was very relevant in building the digital economy.

Inuwa highlighted the importance of programmes that equipped young Nigerians with digital skills, noting their potential to reduce unemployment and enhance economic growth.

He congratulated participants of the certification programme, reaffirming NITDA’s commitment to supporting initiatives that positioned Nigeria as a key player in the global digital economy.

Also, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said that sustainable data required a functional protection mechanism in an increasingly digital world.

Represented by CP Uche Henry, the National Commissioner, Cybercrime Centre, Egbetokun said the increasing application of emerging technologies had increased threats.

“The increasing application of emerging technologies and the management of public and firebase businesses with inherent vulnerabilities exposes the entire global ecosystem to cyber threats and data breaches.

“This has caused the urgent need for well trained professionals who can effectively navigate the complexities of data protection and regulatory frameworks,” he said.

Other goodwill messages were from the Minister of Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande and Mrs Jane Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director of the Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd.

NAN reports that the programme will commence with the first cohort of 200 participants, with 100 each from Abuja and Lagos respectively.

In the subsequent weeks, a new cohort of 100 participants would undergo training each week until the full group of 500 selected participants had completed the training.

The training and certification of the 500 selected participants is being funded by the NDPC as part of its 2025 capacity-building initiatives and in line with its Nigeria Data Protection Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (2023-2027).

Beneficiaries of the programme will take a virtual certification examination at the end of the programme, which will be administered by the Institute of Information Management (IIM).(NAN)www.nannews.ng

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Stakeholders advocate data-driven economic reforms
Economy/Business

Stakeholders advocate data-driven economic reforms

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

Some stakeholders on Thursday called for data-driven economic reforms with measurable outcomes to enhance the country’s Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) ranking.

They made the call during the January9Collective (J9C) 13th Anniversary Lecture in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was themed: ‘Business and Policy Strategy: Examining the Role of Reform in Enhancing the Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria’.

Prince Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, urged the Federal Government to implement more fiscal reforms.

Adebayo noted that such reforms should facilitate economic growth, improve efficiency, and foster economic stability.

He suggested the metering of oil wells to ensure accurate revenue generation.

He emphasised that the government must engage with businesses at regulatory intersections to enhance the ease of doing business and implement reforms to strengthen the legal system.

“The Nigerian government must look inwards, define the desired trajectory for the country, and carry out reforms based on that vision.

“The first reform should ensure that rules are not set by players but are enforced by independent entities. Businesspeople must approach the government for general regulations rather than specific ones.

“Economic reforms without political reforms are ineffective, as politics dictate the economy.

“For ease of doing business, we must also separate regulators from those they regulate and ensure economic crimes are punishable,” he said.

Adebayo further highlighted the need for transparency in land matters.

Dr Kayode Onafowokan, Chairman of Coleman Wires and Cables, described the event’s theme as reflective of efforts to promote professionalism, entrepreneurial excellence, honour, and integrity.

He called for increased investments in agriculture, food processing, industrial raw materials, building materials, and information and communication technology (ICT).

“Investment decisions are not sentimental; globally, the primary consideration is to invest where returns are guaranteed, though not taken for granted.

“Equally crucial is succession planning, which is vital for aspiring entrepreneurs.

“Founders of Nigerian businesses should encourage their children to engage with the institutions they have built to ensure sustained growth and continuity,” he said.

Mr Ugodre Obi-Chukwu, Founder of Nairametrics, underscored the importance of leveraging data for decision-making in reforms.

He noted that the difference between developing and developed economies lies in their ability to access and utilise data, adding that businesses that effectively harness data tend to outperform those that do not.

“Tax incentives are critical to encouraging both local and foreign direct investment in Nigeria.

“To increase foreign direct investment, the groundwork must include addressing the fiscal deficit, implementing foreign exchange reforms, and ensuring exchange rate stability changes that may materialise this year,” he said.

Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, urged the government to view manufacturing as pivotal to driving economic growth.

He called for policies to promote industrial development, incentivise private sector participation, and facilitate intersectoral engagement.

“It is essential to pass the four pending tax bills urgently and revise electricity tariffs to reflect actual consumption.

“We also urge the Central Bank of Nigeria to redeem the outstanding 2.4 billion dollars in foreign exchange obligations,” he said.

Mrs Toki Mabogunje, a former President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stressed the need to modernise reforms and ensure their proper implementation and enforcement.

She noted the role of sub-national governments in driving the ease of doing business.

“We must harness the value chain of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to compete globally, aggregate the mining sector, and unlock exports, particularly non-oil exports,” she said.

Mr Adedeji Popoola, Founder of Fina Trust Microfinance Bank, emphasised the importance of SMEs internalising business processes and maintaining proper documentation to enhance financial inclusion.

He also called on the government to address insecurity to foster inclusive economic development.

Mr Kingsley James, Captain of J9C, stated that the group, established in 2012, aims to consistently examine the Nigerian polity and offer solutions through dialogue and engagement. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Geospatial data crucial to security, development- Goronyo
General News

Geospatial data crucial to security, development- Goronyo

365 total views today

By Ahmed Musa/Angela Atabo

Dr Mohammed Goronyo, Minister of State for Works, has emphasised the role of geospatial data in advancing Nigeria’s security and socio-economic development.

During his visit to the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation in Abuja on Wednesday, Goronyo noted the importance of developing data infrastructure as a cornerstone of the nation’s progress.

“We must develop our data infrastructure to succeed as a nation because accurate data is essential for achieving our goals,” he stated.

The minister observed that although the Office of the Surveyor-General has been operational for over 100 years, its equipment has become outdated due to rapid technological advancements.

He reiterated the federal government’s commitment to prioritising data utilisation to drive its security and socio-economic agenda.

He added that accurate data is indispensable for agencies involved in technology, mechanised agriculture, and security.

Goronyo also called for increased support for the Office of the Surveyor-General to enable it to effectively fulfil its mandate.

He acknowledged the office’s efforts in spite huge challenges related to funding and resources.

Earlier, the Surveyor-General of the Federation, Mr AbdulGaniyu Adebomehin, identified inadequate funding as a major obstacle to the agency’s operations.

Adebomehin revealed that the agency currently has only two drones to cover the six geopolitical zones, severely limiting its capacity to execute projects efficiently.

The minister however assured that the government would address the issues raised, including improving staff welfare and providing additional geospatial equipment to enhance the agency’s coverage. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Data crucial for agric. mechanisation- Stakeholders
Agriculture

Data crucial for agric. mechanisation- Stakeholders

480 total views today

 

By Angela Atabo

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s agricultural sector have emphasised the importance of accurate data in realising the full potential of agricultural mechanisation.

 

This was the central theme of a workshop on Mechanisation in Nigeria, organised by the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) and Heifer International Nigeria in Abuja on Monday.

 

Dr Tobi Lekan, Country Director of Heifer International Nigeria, noted that data plays a critical role in optimising tractor utilisation and maintenance.

 

“By embracing a data-driven approach, we can maximise the impact of each tractor and ensure the success of Nigeria’s mechanisation journey,” he said.

 

Lekan said that the workshop aimed to discuss strategies for supporting the ownership, deployment, adoption, and use of tractors to make them sustainable.

 

He emphasised that increasing the penetration rate of tractors in Nigeria was crucial, as the country currently had one of the lowest rates in Africa.

 

Mr Mohamed Ibrahim, Executive Secretary of NADF, highlighted the government’s commitment to engaging youths as drivers of agricultural transformation.

 

“The first phase of the initiative aims to assemble and deploy 2,000 John Deere tractors, creating 2,000 models of mechanisation success stories.”

 

Mr Cornelius Adebayo, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), stated that the government was making significant efforts to promote mechanisation through its agencies.

 

According to Adebayo, the government is working on clusterisation to fast-track mechanisation.

 

“We cannot achieve our mechanisation goals without clusterisation, so we have designed national programmes to ensure their success.

 

“These programmes include the Renewed Hope mega farm settlement, which provides thousands of farmers with access to social amenities and enables them to produce and earn a living.

 

“Additionally, the government plans to resettle displaced persons and cluster them in areas where they can farm and earn a living.”

 

Dr Nneka Enwonwu, Hello Tractor’s Country Managing Director, emphasised the crucial role of innovative financing in effective mechanisation.

 

“Our organisation tackles financial and operational hurdles that limit access to mechanisation.

 

“We connect smallholder farmers to mechanized service providers, optimising tractor utilisation and maintenance through data-driven solutions like Pay-As-You-Go models and technology-enabled tracking,”she said.

 

Enwonwu stressed that achieving food security requires mechanising smallholder farmers.

 

“We must provide them with access to mechanised services, tractors, implements, and harvesters to boost productivity and yields.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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