NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
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.

 

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“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.

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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.

 

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“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.

 

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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.

 

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“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.

 

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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 

202 total views today

 

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

282 total views today

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

Metro

ASIS International lauds Wike’s commitment to addressing insecurity in FCT

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By Philip Yatai

The world’s largest association for security professionals, ASIS International, has commended the commitment of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in addressing insecurity in the territory.

The Chairman of the Abuja Branch 273, Mr Edward Orim, gave the commendation during the association’s 2024 Annual General Meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.

Orim, who was re-elected to serve for another year, said that Nigeria has the capacity to adopt the use of technology to strengthen the fight against insecurity.

He, however, added that the absence of political will was a serious challenge to deepening the use of technology to tackle insecurity across the country.

He said that Wike, on the other hand, had in the last one year demonstrated the capacity and the political will to address insecurity and make FCT a great and secured capital city for all.

He said that the minister’s support to security agencies, particularly operational vehicles fitted with latest technology equipment, was a game changer in the fight against insecurity in FCT.

“The FCT Minister is providing the needed support, including technological equipment to strengthen the fight against insecurity with a view to keeping residents of FCT safe,” he said.

He added that Mr Adamu Gwary, Director, FCT Administration’s Security Services Department, was presented with a Certificate of Excellence, in recognition of his support and contributions to the growth of ASIS International in Abuja.

The chairman said that the association would be looking forward to a stronger partnership with the FCTA to improve security in the nation’s capital.

He said that the association has made significant strides in Nigeria’s security sector through impactful initiatives and strategic outreach in 2024.

“The chapter also advanced professional development through its Women in Security webinar, which strengthened engagement among security professionals.

“In line with ASIS International commitment to humanitarian efforts and gender inclusion, Women in Security provided aid to flood victims in Borno State and championed career growth for women on the International Day of the Girl Child.

“For the next one year, we will be looking forward to deepening the use of technology in addressing insecurity, through collaboration and partnership with critical stakeholders,” he said.

Responding, Gwary thanked the association for the recognition, adding that the FCTA was open to more collaboration to strengthen the FCT’s security framework.

Gwari, who was represented by Dr Peter Olumuji, Secretary, FCTA’s Command and Control Centre, noted that in a global community, security was everybody’s responsibility.

“We are happy that ASIS is contributing to addressing insecurity in the FCT.

“The FCT minister has established a robust and standard Command and Control Centre in the territory to respond effectively to security threats.

“The control system will be equipped with the latest and necessary technology to fight insecurity,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that also elected was Mr Jacob Akinola as Vice Chairman, Amos Itodo as Secretary and Ms Jane Wilson as Treasurer. (NAN)

Edited by Muhammad Lawal

Defence/Security

U.S. Embassy urges FG to harness technology to strengthen Nigeria’s security

288 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The United States Embassy, Abuja, has urged the Federal Government to harness the power of technology to strengthen its security framework and build a safer, more resilient Nigeria.

Mr Bradley Markwald, the embassy’s Senior Regional Security Officer, gave the advice at the 2024 Annual General Meeting of ASIS International, Chapter 273, in Abuja, on Tuesday.

The security expert spoke on the topic, “Leveraging Technology for Enhancing National Security in Nigeria.”

Markwald noted that with Nigeria’s vast population, rich resources, and extensive geographic expanse, safeguarding national security presents both complex challenges and unique opportunities.

He described advancing surveillance and monitoring as “critical transformative ways” which technologies could serve Nigeria’s national security goals.

“By incorporating satellite-based imagery from platforms like the NigeriaSat-X and the European Space Agency’s Copernicus programme, we can monitor vast swathes of land, borders, and critical infrastructure in real time.

“Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), equipped with thermal imaging and Al-powered tracking software, can be deployed for surveillance in remote areas, providing intelligence on movements and activities of potential security threats.

“The integration of sensor networks along Nigeria’s borders, highways, and ports could offer a proactive approach to security by detecting unusual activity such as unauthorized vehicle movements or crossing of borders in real time,” Markwald said.

He added that technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) sensors could alert authorities to possible incursions or natural disasters that may threaten national security.

These tools, according to him, will not only enhance defensive posture but also help keep Nigerian citizens and businesses safer by enabling timely interventions.

The security expert also called for the modernisation of border control, adding that effective border control was an essential part of Nigeria’s national security strategy and technology could significantly improve this area.

He said that by adopting advanced electronic border systems, Nigeria could enhance the accuracy of border checks and reduce the risks associated with human error.

“Biometric technologies such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning used in systems like the Advanced Passenger Information Systems (APIS) can quickly verify identities, ensuring that only authorized individuals enter or leave the country.

“Automated Border Control (ABC) gates, already in use in airports around the world, can help streamline this process, making border control both secure and efficient.

“In addition, the use of Smart Border Management Systems, which combine biometric data with real-time tracking of individuals and vehicles at the border, would significantly enhance the ability to manage immigration and trade flows without compromising security,” he said.

Markwald said that the United Arab Emirates had  implemented an eGate system that employs facial and fingerprint recognition to streamline immigration while enhancing security.

He added that for Nigeria, adopting cost-effective solutions like Suprema ID’s BioMini Slim 3 fingerprint scanners could make a significant difference.

“These portable devices offer high speed authentication and are durable enough for use in various environments.

“By implementing such biometric technologies, Nigeria can reduce wait times at border crossings, minimize human error, and prevent unauthorised entries.

“This will not only strengthen border management but also enhance the overall efficiency of border security operations,” he said.

The senior regional security officer, equally stressed the need to strengthen cybersecurity and cyber resilience, adding that in today’s digital world, cybersecurity was essential to national security.

According to him, protecting sensitive data, critical infrastructure, and digital systems from cyber threats must be a top priority.

“Advanced encryption protocols like AES-256 encryption and quantum cryptography are essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s most sensitive government and corporate data.

“Technologies such as Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW), Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), and Al-powered anomaly detection can identify and mitigate cyberattacks in real time, protecting Nigeria’s key infrastructure from digital threats.

“Moreover, Nigeria can invest in a robust cyber defense infrastructure that includes state-of-the-art Security Operations Centers (SOC), empowered with the latest Al-driven solutions for detecting and responding to cybersecurity threats and equipped with the latest tools for real-time monitoring and incident response.

“The National Computer Emergency Response Team (ngCERT) can adopt advanced cyber defense systems such as FireEye’s Network Security and Forensics, which provide real-time threat detection and response capabilities.”

He further called for enhanced intelligence sharing and collaboration, improving crisis management and incident response

“The commitment to adopting and investing in these technologies will help Nigeria better protect its citizens, safeguard critical infrastructure, and secure the nation’s future.

“Together, let us work to leverage these advancements to create a safer Nigeria for generations to come,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Mark Longyen

Foreign , Science & Tech

We’ll empower more Nigerian girls with technology—-Korean Ambassador 

624 total views today
By Jessica Dogo
The Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Kim Pankyu, has said that the Korean government will continue to support Nigeria’s quest to empower young girls with technology.
The ambassador spoke at the final of the National Girls in ICT competition organised by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, supported by Plan International, on Thursday in Abuja.
Pankyu was represented by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KIOCA) country Director, Nigeria, SON Sungil.
He said that KIOCA’s engagement with the programme showed its commitment to empowering young girls with technology and innovation in Nigeria.
“Our partnership also signifies the positive outcomes of KIOCA’S long standing digital transfers formation journey with the ministry and the people of Nigeria.
“KIOCA and the Korean government will remain committed to working along side the ministry to help achieve Nigeria’s government renewed hope agenda.
“It is, indeed, a great pleasure to contribute to the success of today’s event by providing resources to this place ” he said.
He said that the journey had been quite tough, adding that a lot of hard work was required.
According to him, KOICA has supported smart schools in Nigeria from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nasarawa, Cross Rivers, Ekiti, Kano and Bauchi states, and hoping to spread the gesture across the country.
“We have been working together with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).
“We recently provided quality ICT facilities to six smart schools where students and teachers can have access to teaching and learning resources.
“That is why we called on them in this competition, believing that it can be a good opportunity for them,” he said.
The Country Director, Plan International,
Mr Usie Emmamuzou, said that Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields had become the cornerstone of modern innovation and advancement.
Emmamuzou, who was represented by Victoria Chenge, said that investing in STEM education and empowering girls would pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
He said that despite progress made, girls and women worldwide continue to face numerous challenges, including sexual and physical abuse, forced marriages, female genital mutilation, and gender-based violence.
“Statistics reveal a concerning trend, few girls and young women pursue ICT courses in secondary and tertiary institutions, resulting in an alarmingly low number of females in these fields .
“This disparity underscores the need for urgent investment in the future of our country, particularly in STEM education,” he said.
He, commended the Ministry of Communications Innovations and Digital Economy for efforts dedicated to supporting girls’ education, protection, and empowerment.
He said that Plan International had committed resources to ensuring girls’ safety and success in their chosen disciplines.
“Our strategy focuses on empowering girls to drive change and achieve gender equality in all aspects of life.
“As part of our commitment, we are donating three laps and nine Raspberry Pi to the winners of this competition.
“This contribution symbolises our dedication to fostering a more inclusive and innovative future,” he said.
The Special Adviser to the Minister of Communications Innovations and Digital Economy, Maryam Gwadabe, said that the aim of the competition was to bridge the digital gender divide.
Gwadabe, who is also the Project Lead for National Girls in ICT competition, said that the programme would bring more girls to pursue careers in ICT, build digital innovation that solve community challenges.
“Our plan is to make sure that we bridge the digital gender divide, bring more girls to pursue careers in ICT and build digital innovation that solve community challenges.
“I am really grateful for their support, especially giving us safeguard in terms of technical support and bringing the girls from the six geopolitical zones of the country.
“I thank them for also supporting us in designing and planning the whole process of the event,” he said.
Fatima Nazir, a student of Sweet Haven High School, Kano, who spoke on behalf of the overall winner in the competition expressed excitement over their success.
Nazir urged other students to be confident, resilient and have perseverance, adding that there are so many opportunities to explore out there.
“I feel very excited, amazed,6 happy and delighted. I plan to make our app become something bigger and also achieve a career in tech generally.
“They should not give up and be confident in whatever they do, and have perseverance and resilience so that we can have more opportunities to take part in competitions like this and accomplish something. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman
Economy/Business

FG considers PPPs to fund key science, technology projects

354 total views today

 

Okeoghene Akubuike

The Federal Government says it is considering private sector funding through Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) for key projects in the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology.

 

This is contained in a statement issued by Ifeanyi Nwoko, the Acting Head, Media and Publicity, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) in Abuja on Thursday.

 

Nwoko said Dr Jobson Ewalefoh, the Director-General (D-G) of ICRC, said this when he paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji.

 

Nwoko said the meeting, initiated by the ICRC D-G, aimed to foster partnership between the two government bodies to leverage PPPs for projects that enhance the nation’s economic and technological growth.

 

Ewalefoh said that science and technology if properly deployed, could serve as a key driver of the economic growth and progress of Nigeria.

 

“Many countries around the world have used science and technology to drive the economic growth and prosperity of their country and people.

 

“We are here to brainstorm with you and find ways by which we can deepen the usage of science and technology for the advancement of our country.

 

“Over the last two decades, countries and businesses have harnessed technology and innovation for upscaling their economy and improving the efficiency in their service delivery.

 

“That is where we want our country to go, and we believe that is the vision you are championing under the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

 

“It is, therefore, my aspiration that your ministry will partner with the ICRC to see areas where we can champion private sector funding through PPP to develop some of the projects specific to the ministry,” he said.

 

The D-G informed the minister that there was already a collaboration with an agency under its purview but stressed that there were other key areas where PPP could be harnessed to deliver laudable projects in the ministry.

 

He said that the commission had streamlined its processes to accelerate PPP project delivery as well as deliver important services to the Nigerian people.

 

Ewalefoh pointed out that some key private sector operators had already verbalised their desire to work with the ministry in a PPP arrangement.

 

Responding, Nnaji expressed his excitement at the appointment of the D-G, saying that Ewalefoh’s wealth of experience would revolutionise the PPP sphere in Nigeria.

 

“Indeed, a square peg has been placed in a square hole,” he said

 

The minister emphasised that the ministry served as a key enabler of economic growth and has had the support of Tinubu which was demonstrated through major approvals granted the ministry.

 

He said that the president had approved methanol production, saying that although the implementation process was still being finalised, foreign direct investments for the project had reached more than 1.5 billion dollars.

 

“We want to go into beneficiation of raw materials and we have the Presidential Executive Order No 5 to back it, such that we don’t have to export our raw materials, but process it to a level before exporting.

 

“We are looking at doing green hydrogen too,” he said.

 

Nnaji noted that Nigeria could make a lot more from cassava export than it was currently making if the raw cassava was processed before export.

 

“We believe that with ICRC, we will partner in doing things right and enabling us to forge a better outlook for most of these projects.

 

“In methanol, we are going to involve ICRC more closely to see the way forward and how it can benefit the country better.

 

“I am happy that you are here; coming here shows that you know what you are doing. You are taking services to those that need it,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

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