NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Aviation

Experts advocate adoption of NavAid drones to enhance Airspace Safety

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By Gabriel Agbeja

Mr Bobga Danjuma, President of Livia Soft Company in the US, has urged African countries to adopt modern aviation equipment to enhance airspace safety.

Danjuma gave this advice on Thursday in Abuja at an executive workshop on NavAid drones, with the theme ‘Advancing in Air Navigation and Safety.’

He stated that modern aviation equipment would improve safety, efficiency, sustainability, and capacity building across Africa.

Danjuma urged African countries to adopt advanced tools like the NavAid Drone, a cutting-edge technology transforming the aerospace industry.

“Africa needs this technology to help navigate airports and runways without relying on expensive aircraft-based calibration,” he said.

He explained that drone-based navigation is a cheaper alternative. Within weeks, an operator can learn to fly a NavAid drone, even in strong winds.

“The barrier to entry for using NavAid drones is very low, making this innovation beneficial for Nigeria and the entire continent,” he added.

Danjuma said NavAid drones reduce calibration costs for navigation aid systems while also lowering carbon emissions.

Also, Mr Luc Haeberle, Managing Director of Colibrex Smart Drone Solution, explained that NavAid drones calibrate Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), which guide aircraft during landings.

“NavAid drones ensure precise calibration of navigation aids, minimising errors and enhancing safety,” he said.

He noted that regular drone-based calibration improves reliability, reduces accident risks, and ensures compliance with regulatory standards.

In his welcome address, Mr Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, highlighted the importance of air navigation and safety.

Represented by Mr Michael Chukwu, Director of Safety, Keyamo said growing air traffic demands more innovative, efficient, and reliable solutions.

“I warmly welcome you to this workshop, where we explore NavAid drones’ groundbreaking role in shaping aerospace development,” he said.

Keyamo stated that the workshop would deepen participants’ understanding of air navigation challenges and how advanced drone technology is revolutionising the industry.

“NavAid drones represent the future—enhancing safety, streamlining operations, cutting costs, and promoting sustainability,” he added.

He said participants would witness a live demonstration of the NavAid drone and discuss real-world applications with industry experts. (NAN)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Defence/Security

DICON-D7G: Developing viable military industrial complex in Nigeria

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By Sumaila Ogbaje, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Nigeria’s quest for self-reliance in military hardware and technology recently received a significant boost with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and the D7G joint venture.

On Jan.18, 2024, DICON and D7G Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a joint venture company codenamed DICON-D7G Nigeria Limited; it is aimed at meeting the defence needs of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies.

The DICON-D7G joint venture is designed to leverage the strengths of both partners to develop a comprehensive military industrial complex in Nigeria.

DICON, with its extensive experience in military hardware production, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.

On the other hand, D7G, a manufacturing company with its global network and access to cutting-edge technology, provides the necessary support and resources to drive innovation and growth.

The DICON-D7G joint venture has several key objectives–the development of military hardware; designing, developing and producing a range of military hardware, including small arms, ammunition and armored vehicles.

The joint venture seeks to facilitate the transfer of technology and expertise from D7G to DICON, enabling the latter to develop its capacity for military hardware production.

The partnership also aims to build the capacity of DICON and other local industries to produce military hardware and equipment; also, the joint venture is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in Nigeria.

During the inauguration of the board of DICON-D7G Board on March 19, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign arms procurement and enhancing Nigeria’s defence industrial base.

Musa said that Nigeria had remained committed to strengthening its defence capabilities to ensure that its gallant men and women in uniform had access to high-quality, locally manufactured military equipment, ammunition and other operational assets.

According to him, the establishment of a strategic partnership between DICON and D7G Nigeria Limited, represents a bold step towards actualising the vision.

He added that the joint venture was for the production of military hardware and equipment for the armed forces, as well as for intelligence, security and paramilitary organisations.

The CDS added that the partnership with D7G would offer a unique opportunity to expand production capacity, leverage advanced technology and foster knowledge transfer that would strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global defence industry.

“The partnership we celebrate today is a testament to our resolve to build a resilient defence manufacturing sector that will meet the immediate and future needs of our military and security institutions,” he said.

On his part, the Director-General of DICON, Maj.-Gen. Aniedi Edet, said the context of the collaboration with D7G was in terms of supply of defence materials and production of local defence items on the basis of 30 per cent to DICON and 70 per cent to D7G.

Edet said that the company was currently engaged in DICON with the first set of defence stock expected to arrive in DICON soon.

According to him, expected stocks include the 103 AK-47 weapons and other assorted weapons that will be assembled as soon as they arrive.

He said that DICOM and D7G collaboration held great prospects for the nation’s military industrial complex, adding that D7G was one of DICON’s most viable partners.

The Chief Executive Officer of D7G, Mr Osman Chennar, said the partnership would focus on bringing new generation technology for defence capabilities in Nigeria.

He said that the industry would soon begin production of ammunition, arms assembling and bomb fit for Nigeria and all of the African market.

More so, Retired Maj.-Gen. Mainasara Masanawa, Director, Land Systems, Innovation, Research and Development for DICON-D7G, said the joint venture was formed to develop Nigeria’s military industrial complex to enhance security in line with the DICON Act 2023, as well as President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on security.

He said the firm, in collaboration with DICON, was set to establish the first military jetty in Lagos on a land covering about 160,000 square metres.

He said the jetty would be used, in addition to stocks of arms and ammunition, for assembling drones on armed aerial vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, 4×4 vehicles, 6×6 armoured personnel carriers and mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles.

Masanawa said the idea was also to use that opportunity to develop human capacity as the complex intended to employ skilled retired military specialists in the company.

He said that the armed forces had trained their personnel effectively and most of them had retired and would go with their knowledge.

According to him, it is an opportunity to bring them back and tap from them.

“We will also employ young engineers, scientists, electrical and electronic engineers that we will bring on board that will be guided by these skilled military personnel to develop weapons systems, radars, electronics, and also give youths the opportunity to display their skill in this new generation of artificial intelligence,’’ he said.

Masanawa said the joint venture had led to production and assembling of arms in Kaduna factory that would be readily available to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies, while developing their factory in Lagos.

He said the company would also go into ship building when its factory comes on stream.

According to him, it will save the government funds in terms of foreign exchange because Nigeria can sell our goods and services, both in naira and in hard currency.

“However, if the government is to procure from outside, they have to pay in hard currency.

“So, we will be saving the government’s forex by providing all the defence equipment needs of the armed forces and paramilitary organisations in Nigeria locally.

“With that, our armed forces and security agencies will be self-sustained and self-sufficient to address all security challenges that have been existing, or may emanate in the future,’’ he said.

Security analysts say the groundbreaking partnership between DICON and the D7 Group of Companies is poised to revolutionise Nigeria’s military industrial complex.

“The DICON-D7G joint venture offers numerous benefits to Nigeria, including reduced dependence on foreign suppliers.

“By developing a viable military industrial complex, Nigeria can reduce its dependence on foreign suppliers of military hardware and equipment.

“The joint venture will enable Nigeria to produce military hardware and equipment that meet its specific national security needs, as well as stimulate economic growth in Nigeria by creating jobs and generating revenue.

“The joint venture will also facilitate the development of new technologies and expertise in Nigeria, which can be applied to other sectors of the economy,’’ a security expert said.

Some experts also say the DICON-D7G joint venture offers numerous opportunities for Nigeria, as well challenges that need to be addressed.

They say the challenges include infrastructure development as the joint venture requires significant investment in infrastructure, including manufacturing facilities, testing equipment and logistics.

“The partnership requires the development of human capacity in areas such as design, engineering, and production.

“The joint venture requires significant funding to support the development of infrastructure, human capacity and technology.

“In spite of these challenges, the DICON-D7G joint venture offers a unique opportunity for Nigeria to develop a viable military industrial complex.

“With the right support and investment, this partnership can help Nigeria achieve its national security goals while also stimulating economic growth and development,’’ a security analyst said.

In all, the DICON-D7G joint venture is a significant step towards developing a viable military industrial complex in Nigeria.

By leveraging the strengths of both partners, this partnership can help Nigeria achieve its national security goals while also stimulating economic growth and development.

As Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of national security and economic development, it is stakeholders’ view that the DICON-D7G joint venture offers a beacon of hope for a brighter future. (NANfeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

Science & Tech

Innovator seeks special funding to boost AI, tech ecosystem

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By Olasunkanmi Onifade

The Founder of Young Innovators of Nigeria (YIN), Mr Andrew Abu, has called for stronger partnerships with relevant agencies to improve access to funding for startups in the country.

Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday, Abu said such collaboration would boost Nigeria’s technology ecosystem.

He noted that while the country’s tech sector has the talent, ideas, and market potential, it requires strategic funding and policy support to drive innovation and economic growth.

“Nigeria’s technology ecosystem is brimming with potential, yet access to funding remains a persistent challenge.

“This is in spite of the existence of funding instruments like the CBN intervention funds, the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) innovation financing, and the Bank of Industry (BOI).

“The disbursement of these funds has not been effectively structured to support the real needs of tech startups.

“The time is ripe for a strategic collaboration between the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the CBN, and others to establish a structured funding model that provides accessible financing for Nigerian innovators”.

Abu noted that the Startup Act (2022) provides a legal framework for supporting startups, but financial institutions and key agencies must implement it effectively to drive real impact.

“The Nigeria Startup Act was designed to stimulate innovation, encourage foreign investment, and provide structured incentives for startups.

“However, its impact can only be fully realised if financial institutions actively leverage its provisions to channel funding into the ecosystem,” he said.

He urged the CBN, in collaboration with the DBN, BOI, and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), to establish a dedicated Startup Investment Fund to provide financing for certified startups under the Startup Act framework.

He said this would reduce bureaucracy and ensure that funds reach the right hands.

“Many startups struggle with access to credit due to a lack of collateral.

“Therefore, DBN and BOI can introduce low-interest loan facilities and credit guarantees to encourage banks to lend to early-stage tech businesses without excessive risk concerns.

“CBN and BOI can structure equity-based funding schemes where startups receive direct capital injections in exchange for minority government stakes, ensuring long-term sustainability.

“NSIA, as Nigeria’s sovereign wealth fund manager, should allocate resources for strategic investment in promising startups, especially in high-growth sectors like fintech, AI, and health tech,” Abu said.

He also called for sector-specific funding for high-growth tech industries such as fintech, health tech, edtech, and agritech, adding that AI-driven startups should receive similar support.

Abu suggested that a Smart Agriculture Innovation Fund be established to support startups using AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain to enhance Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.

He further recommended that BOI, NSIA, and DBN collaborate with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to fund innovation hubs across the country, particularly in underrepresented regions.

“These hubs should serve as incubation centres where startups receive both funding and business development support.

“NITDA’s experience in digital innovation and startup incubation makes it a key facilitator of capacity-building programmes for tech entrepreneurs,” Abu said.

He emphasised that NITDA and NSIA are at the forefront of Nigeria’s digital transformation and should play a crucial role in ensuring policy implementation and providing technical support for digital enterprises under the Startup Act. (NAN)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Aviation

FG to advance technology towards safer skies – Keyamo

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By Gabriel Agbeja

The Federal Government says it will engage more technologies to improve efficiency, passenger experience and safer skies in the aviation sector.

Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, said this on Saturday in Abuja, at a symposium to mark the 25th Anniversary of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The theme of the symposium was ” Human Capital Development: Upskilling the Next Generation of Aviators”.

Keyamo, who was represented by Dr Ibrahim Kana, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, said that such technological advancement would play a vital role in shaping the  future of aviation in the nation.

He expressed optimism that technological advancement would lead to economic improvement, as well as an exceptionally safe and secure aviation industry.

“The NCAA Silver Jubilee Anniversary Lecture aims to emphasise the importance of maintaining aviation safety as the foundation of the industry’s growth and development.

“While the NCAA has achieved remarkable success over the past 25 years, sustaining these accomplishments requires a deliberate focus on strategic planning, stakeholder collaboration, and the adoption of innovative practices.

“Aviation safety is not a one-time achievement but a continuous process of adaptation and improvement.

“With advancements in technology, rising passenger demands, and increasing globalisation, the dynamics of aviation safety are evolving rapidly,“ he said.

Keyamo said that the symposium demonstrated collective resolve of rebirthing, rejuvenating and repositioning Nigerian aviation and air transportation in the context of the nation’s social-economic and political landscape.

According to him, the symposium promises to provide lasting solution kits for a new era of the air transport industry.

The Director-General. NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, said that the agency had played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the aviation sector, ensuring safety, regulatory excellence, and fostering growth within the industry.

Najomo said that the symposium indicated collective commitment to strengthening aviation standards, enhancing collaboration, and shaping the future of air transportation in Nigeria.

“Right from the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) to the current NCAA which we are celebrating, our journey has been one of dedication, resilience, and innovation.

“NCAA was built on the growth achieved by its predecessor organisations through remarkable transformations, from regulatory reforms to advancements in aviation safety and service delivery.

“As we celebrate current achievements, we must also look ahead to embracing new technologies, improving operational efficiencies, and fostering partnerships that will elevate our aviation industry to even greater heights,” he said.

Najomo said that the NCAA was faithfully guided by the minister’s Five-Point Agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda that emphasised infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation.

“NCAA will ensure a robust regulatory framework, foster a healthy business friendly environment for investors, and enhance the competitiveness of the nation’s aviation sector in line with global best practices.

“To our esteemed stakeholders, your contributions have been invaluable in shaping NCAA’s success. To our dedicated staff, your unwavering commitment has been the foundation of our achievements.

“As we chart the course over the next 25 years and beyond, let us reaffirm our resolve to uphold the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and global best practices,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Science & Tech

Leverage on technological advancement- Surveyor-General

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By Ahmed Dantala

Mr Abuduganiyu Adebomehin, the Surveyor-General of the Federation, has appealed to surveyors in the country to leverage on new technology in their responsibilities.

 

Adebomehin said this during the 2024 Conference of the Zonal Directors and Chief Resident Surveyors (CRS) on Thursday in Abuja.

 

The theme of the Conference is: The Future of Work: Adapting to Change in the Geospatial Ecosystem and the Public Service.

 

CUE-IN-VIDEO

“The new thing in mapping now as at today is digital twin. There is a need for us to take the scripture, go and search for more knowledge so that when you are talking about them, you talk like an authority

 

“As CRS and zonal directors, you should take the bull by the horn, letting us know that the future of the work is completely different from what we were taught in school

 

“We have technological advancement as the future of work, which we all have to go and equip ourselves with.

CUE-OUT-VIDEO.

 

 

Mr Onyekwere Nwogu, the Director, Infrastructure Surveys, office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation, also urged participants to explore the strategy and techniques that would reshape the future of their work.

 

CUE-IN-VIDEO.

 

“Throughout this conference, we would exploit the strategy and technology that will reshape the future of work

 

“We must recognise that by championing lifelong learnings, embracing technological innovations and fostering a right attitude to work, we can turn challenges into opportunities.

 

CUE-OUT-VIDEO.

 

 

Ms Oluwaseun Falana, one of the keynote speakers at the event, called for more collaboration and use of technological advancement in order to excel in the new age.

 

CUE-IN-VIDEOS.

 

“Collaboration is a cornerstone of productivity and technology plays a pivotal role in enabling it, especially in digital things.

 

“Technology foster innovation, accelerate problem solving and improve overall efficiency

 

“Digital transformation has reduced those lengthy time at work to the bearest minimum.

 

CUE-OUT-VIDEOS.

 

Falana also reminded the participants to maintain due diligence and professionalism in order to meet-up with the demands of the 21st century technology.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Science & Tech

ASRIC urges African scientists to lay foundations for new scientific era

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By Tolu Aiyegbusi

The Chairman of the African Scientific Research and Innovation Council (ASRIC), Prof.  Sammy Chumbow, has urged African scientists to lay foundations for a new science and technology era using innovation and research.

Chumbow made the call on Friday in his closing remarks at the 7th ASRIC Congress in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

He said the transition into a scientific era as Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA) 2024 has ended and Africa was set to adopt the policy strategy of STISA 2024.

Chumbow said, “The strategy aims to guide the continent’s STI development over the next decade.

“Therefore, African scientists should harness the power of science, technology, and innovation to drive economic growth, sustainable development, and global competitiveness.’’

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that STISA-2024 is the first of the ten-year incremental phasing strategies to respond to demands for STI in different sectors.

They include:  Agriculture, energy, environment, health and security, among others.

STISA-2034 will build on the successes of its predecessor, STISA-2024, and address emerging challenges and opportunities in Africa’s STI landscape.

STISA-2034 was validated by the African stakeholders in STI in November 2024 and will be endorsed at the AU Summit in February 2025.

The chairman stated that this development marked a significant milestone in Africa’s quest to harness the power of science which should be tapped into by African scientists.

Chumbow added that the strategy would reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of African countries, which should foster a united approach by African scientists to STI development on the continent.

He also called on the council’s Bureau to study the objectives and mandates of ASRIC guidelines so as to sharpen their focus on initiatives that produce continental and regional STI development.

Chumbow urged the bureau’s members not to lose touch with research institutions and university officials and to adopt the principles of focal point so as to make a difference in their fields.

The Executive Director, African Union Scientific and Technical Research Commission (AUSTRC) and ASRIC, Dr Ahmed Hamdy, in his closing remarks, said entering another transition period marks a major shift in innovations.

“Coming forward from where we are where the changes are so obvious, entering a period of major transition globally. We are facing several challenges spanning from climate change, emerging diseases among others.

“Let us as scientists look at each of these challenges separately to have a better understanding of how best we can tackle them using STI,’’ he said.

Hamdy said that the challenges of global change required a transition not only in society but also in the scientific community which scientists should rise up to.

“Global change poses unprecedented challenges to scientific and policy communities, a kind that cannot be tackled using existing conceptual frameworks and methods.

“They are likely to change how we live and relate with each other and scientists should rise to the occasion,’’ he said. (NAN)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Science & Tech

Nigeria needs advanced satellites to cut $2bn annual capital flight- Expert

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By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

A Space Engineer, Prof. Spencer Onuh, has stated that Nigeria needs to acquire more advanced satellites to reduce capital flight on data and imagery sourcing, which costs the country over two billion dollars annually.

Onuh said this on Tuesday during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, reflecting on the impact of the National Space Programme over the past 25 years.

He explained that satellite data is very expensive, with government institutions spending significant sums to acquire data and imagery from other countries.

“We have the challenge of capital flight on data and imagery because our satellites were designed with specific resolutions.

“These institutions are looking for a certain level of resolution which our satellites don’t have the capacity to provide, hence they go outside Nigeria to get them.

“Military standard is sub-one metre, and our own house resolution is 2.5 metres, it is a big challenge.

“Nigeria is losing 2 to 3 billion dollars annually on data, because data is expensive.

“If you are looking for data for town planning or the military, you need imagery from sub-one metre, 30cm, or 50cm resolution satellites,” he said.

According to Onuh, agencies seek such resolutions because they provide better value for their needs, and the demand for higher-resolution data is increasing rapidly.

He added that acquiring satellites with higher resolutions is capital-intensive but would save the country significant costs in the long run.

Onuh identified another challenge affecting Nigeria’s space programme: cloudy skies and environmental conditions, which make obtaining imagery with existing satellites difficult.

“We will need a Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite to solve the issue of cloud cover.

“We need to monitor our weather, which is becoming a major challenge this can be addressed with a meteorological satellite.

“If Nigeria is planning another phase of satellite design and manufacture to address the issue of cloud cover, we need to consider these factors.

“We also need to replace our communication satellite, which will soon be deorbited and may begin to decay in performance,” Onuh said.

He urged the Federal Government to commit to revolutionising the space programme, emphasising that it would benefit the entire country. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)


Edited by Benson Iziama

General News

Ex-NBA chair urges Nigerian leaders to complement human capabilities, technology 

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By Taiye Agbaje

Mr John Peters, a former Chairman, Association of Master of Business Administration (MBA), says leaders in Nigeria should foster environment that complements human capabilities.

 

Peters, a renowned leadership speaker, gave the advice on Friday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

 

Responding to question on how leaders can ensure smooth technology adoption, he said: “For Nigerian executives striving to drive digital transformation or smooth technology, adoption demands more than new tools.

 

“it requires embedding technology as a driver of organisational agility and resilience.”

 

Peters suggested leveraging proven frameworks such as Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model and the ADKAR model.

 

He emphasised the importance of cultural alignment in fostering employees’ buy-in.

 

“Leaders need to foster environments where technology complements human capabilities. Adobe’s transition to a cloud-based model succeeded because it ensured employees’ buy-in at every stage.

 

“Similarly, Nigerian organisations can benefit by tailoring training to address specific challenges, as seen in Microsoft’s Office 365 rollout,” he said.

 

According to him, this aligns with TEXEM’s methodology, which integrates interactive and context-relevant learning to empower leaders with actionable insights.

 

Peters said Nigerian leaders can drive technology enhanced efficiency by aligning technology investments with organisational goals.

 

He alluded to Interswitch, which successfully synchronised its digital payment systems with Nigeria’s cashless policy, thereby enhancing both customer experience and national financial inclusion.

 

“Leaders must ensure that technology adoption translates into measurable outcomes. For instance, Nigerian Breweries leverages analytics to optimise its supply chain, demonstrating how technology can boost productivity,” he said.

 

The ex-NBA’s chair highlighted automation as a game-changer, particularly when it augments human roles rather than replaces them.

 

“Nigerian banks, like GTBank, have implemented AI-driven chatbots to handle routine inquiries, improving response times and customer satisfaction,” he said.

 

Peters, however, said that automation’s true value lied in enabling employees to focus on higher-value tasks.

 

NAN reports that Peters is expected to speak at TEXEM’s upcoming programme titled: “Thriving in this Digital and Disruptive Era,” scheduled between Nov. 25 and Nov. 28 in Oxford.

 

He will be joined by two other distinguished faculty members; Prof. Rodria Laline, a global technology innovator and former SVP at Oracle, and Prof. Paul Griffith, the trailblazing academic who led the first management team to launch a rocket into space.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Gender

Glovo, LASG, She Code Africa unveil initiative for tech women

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

Glovo, a pioneering multi-category app, has unveiled its Women in Tech Bootcamp with the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and investment and She Code Africa to promote technology infusion for women.

Mrs Lamide Akinola, the General Manager, Glovo Nigeria, at the launch on Friday in Lagos, said the bootcamp was to empower the next generation of female leaders in technology.

Akinola said the initiative not only aimed to foster technology inclusion but to also provide skills training, and empower women to build successful careers in technology.

Akinola said the event which brought together industry leaders, government officials, European diplomatic community reinforced Glovo’s commitment to bridging the gender gap in the tech industry.

She added that it would advance gender diversity, create pathways for women to thrive in tech-driven roles and make a lasting impact in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.

“At Glovo, we believe in a future where women are integral drivers of innovation, especially in technology.

“We recognise that the challenges women face in technology go beyond technical skills; they include barriers rooted in access, opportunity, and sometimes, the confidence to take bold steps.

“Today’s event is our way of saying we see those barriers, and we are here to help break them down with you.

“At Glovo, we believe that empowering women with digital skills is essential, not only for driving innovation and growth but for building communities where everyone can thrive,” she said.

Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Commissioner, Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Lagos State, underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in unlocking opportunities for women.

Ambrose-Medebem quoted that studies showed that bridging the gender gap in technology could add up to $12 trillion to global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2025.

She said the figure showed that empowering women in technology was not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity.

She said Lagos State, a hub of innovation and economic activity, understood that inclusion was a catalyst for sustainable growth.

“However, achieving this requires intentional strategies and robust partnerships.

“Today’s gathering signifies more than just advocacy; it is a rallying cry to reimagine the future of innovation by ensuring no one is left behind, particularly women, who represent half of our population.

“We are excited to work with Glovo and She Code Africa to deliver a program that opens doors for women to excel, innovate, and lead.

“This initiative also aligns with the mandate of the ministry to foster innovation, encourage entrepreneurship, and support the development of skilled talent across industries,” she said.

Ada Oyom, Founder, She Code Africa, said her organisation as the technical partners of the Women in Tech Bootcamp Programme, was very enthusiasm about the outcome of the partnership.

Oyom said the collaboration with Glovo and the Lagos State Government to run the 12-week intensive programme would create impactful pathways for women in tech.

She noted that Glovo’s commitment to gender diversity was commendable, and urged like-minded companies to invest in initiatives that empower the future of women in technology.

“Together, we can build a more inclusive and innovative tech ecosystem,” she said.

Also, Shiro Theuri, Glovo’s Chief Technology Officer, restated the brand’s steadfast commitment to diversity in technology, saying its possibilities and impact of fostering inclusive environments was enormous.

She said the company’s dedication to “walking the talk” was evident in its strategic efforts to create opportunities for women across its operations, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

She said the initiative aimed to ignite interest in technology careers by highlighting the flexibility, creativity, and impact of a modern technology environment.

“To achieve this, Glovo focuses on three pillars: facilitating bootcamps for women without technical backgrounds to prepare them for junior tech roles.

“The second pillar is breaking gender stereotypes through community engagement, such as office visits that inspire young girls with female role models; and acting as a career catalyst by offering internships to top bootcamp participants.

“This initiative also ensures that, even after completing the bootcamp, participants will have ongoing access to mentorship, supporting their journey toward careers in technology.

“This mentorship aligns closely with the broader goals of Glovo’s Women in Tech initiative across the globe, which aims to make an impact by empowering the next generation of women in technology,” she said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Defence/Security

Technology game changer in anti-corruption war- ICPC

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By Isaac Aregbesola

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has emphasised that embracing technology was vital in combating corruption in the country.

ICPC Secretary, Mr Clifford Oparaodu, represented by Mr Demola Bakare, Acting Director of Public Enlightenment and Education, said this at the inauguration of the students’ anti-corruption vanguard on Tuesday in Abuja.

“Embracing technology can be a game-changer in our fight against corruption. We are living in an era of unprecedented technological advancements, and Nigerians youths have proven themselves adept at utilising these tools.

“We must harness the power of technology to increase transparency, enhance accountability, and improve governance.

“Mobilising our coding skills, data analysis abilities and social media prowess, we can expose corrupt practices, track public spending and facilitate citizen participation in anti-corruption initiatives,” he said

Oparaodu highlighted Nigeria’s youthful population, with 60 per cent under 30, as a crucial factor in shaping the nation’s future.

He emphasised that young people possessed the passion, energy, and creativity necessary to tackle corruption.

To achieve this, he advocated for empowering and involving youths in the fight against corruption, leveraging technology to increase transparency, enhance accountability, and improve governance.

“We need to establish platforms, where young Nigerians from diverse background can come together, share ideas, and work collectively towards a corruption–free Nigeria.

“Civil society organisations, academic institutions and youth led initiatives should collaborate to create opportunities to become anti-corruption champions,” he said.

He said the youth of Nigeria had a pivotal role to play in the fight against corruption.

“By educating ourselves, leveraging technology, engaging in politics of development, and fostering collaboration, we can effect real change in our society.

“The establishment of the students’ anti-corruption vanguard is a testament to our commitment to integrity and accountability.

“Through this platform, you will have opportunity to educate your peers, raise awareness about the danger of corruption, and advocate for transparency in all spheres of life, especially among yourselves and in your various institutions,” he said.

He urged the students to take a wave of change and collaborate with the commission, which would provide you with the necessary tools and guidance to effectively champion the cause.

“Together, let us forge a path towards a future where integrity thrives and corruption is a relic of the past.

“I look forward to witnessing the impactful initiatives that will emerge from these vanguards and the positive changes you will bring about,” he said.

He said by implementing these strategies, Nigerian youths could drive meaningful change and create a society where integrity thrived, and corruption eradicated.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that students from the School of nursing Gwagwalada, Abuja; Nasarawa Polytechnic and Nile University were presented at the event (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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