The Nation Newspaper

Category: Infotech

  • Samsung Launches Two New Smartphones Galaxy S9 & S9+

    Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. on Friday introduced Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ smartphones in Nigeria in the bid to re-imagine the way people communicate, share and experience the world.

    The Original Equipment Manufacturer(OEM) said its inroad into the mobility market space in Nigeria for the year 2018 would be a pathfinder for awesome innovation for communication, and re-invented life-style experiences.

    Made for an age in which consumers increasingly communicate and express themselves more with images, videos and emojis, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ has been designed to drive innovation with advanced camera features.

    Redesigned with a new Dual Aperture lens that powers an innovative low light camera, Super Slow-mo video capabilities and personalised AR Emoji, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ ensure users do not miss a moment and make their everyday epic.

    The Galaxy S9 and S9+ deliver an enhanced entertainment experience with powerful stereo speakers tuned by AKG, immersive audio with Dolby Atmos® and a refined edge-to-edge Infinity Display – a key staple in Samsung’s design heritage. In addition, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ will come with the new SmartThings app, which unites Samsung’s existing IoT services into one single, smart experience.

    “The way we use our smartphones has changed as communication and self-expression has evolved,” said Jingak Chung, Managing Director, Samsung Electronics West Africa. “With the Galaxy S9 and S9+, we have reimagined the smartphone camera. Not only do the Galaxy S9 and S9+ enable consumers to shoot great photos and videos anywhere, it’s a smartphone that’s designed to help them connect to others and express themselves in a way that’s unique and personal to them.”

    Camera Re-imagined

    Today’s cameras are for more than taking pictures – they’re for connecting and communicating. Consumers want a smartphone camera with state-of-the-art technology, so they can express themselves with high-quality images and tools to tell their own, unique story.

    The Galaxy S9 and S9+ cameras are built with these consumers in mind, with a Super Speed Dual Pixel sensor with dedicated processing power and memory to take amazing shotswith high photo quality.

    The Galaxy S9 and S9+’s camera features include:

    • Super Slow-mo: Make every day moments epic with dynamic, slow-motion video that captures 960 frames per second.

    The Galaxy S9 and S9+ also offer automatic Motion Detection, an intelligent feature that detects movement in the frame and automatically begins to record – all users have to do is set up the shot.

    After capturing the Super Slow-mo video, users can select background music from 35 different options or add a tune from their favorite playlist.

    Users can also easily create, edit and share GIF files with a simple tap in three playful styles of looping to watch the action over and over again.

    • Low Light Camera: Good lighting is the secret to any great photo. But often, photos are taken in less-than-ideal lighting conditions and most smartphone cameras have a fixed aperture that can’t adjust to low or bright lighting environments resulting in grainy or washed out pictures.

    Similar to the way the iris of a human eye expands and contracts, Samsung’s Dual Aperture  (F1.5 / F2.4) automatically lets in more light when it’s dark and less light when it’s too bright, taking photos that are crisp and clear.

    • AR Emoji: Samsung lets users create an emoji that looks, sounds and acts like them.

    AR Emojiuses a data-based machine learning algorithm, which analyses a 2D image of the user and maps out more than 100 facial features to create a 3D model that reflects and imitates expressions, like winks and nods, for true personalisation.

    AR Emoji shares users’ real-life emotionsnot only in video but also with a range of stickers and uses a standard AGIF file format so users can share their emojis across most third-party messaging platforms.

    • Bixby: Samsung’s intelligence platform, integrated into the camera, uses augmented reality and deep learning technologies to provide helpful information about a user’s surroundings.

    With real-time object detection and recognition, Bixby instantly generates information directly on top of the image that the camera is pointing at.

    Users can translate foreign languages and currency in real time with Live Translation, learn about their surroundings, purchase products seen in the real world and track calories throughout the day.

    Entertainment Reimagined

    Smartphones are often our go-to choice for entertainment, which is why Samsung created a device that offers premium sound experiences with stereo speakers tuned by AKG.

    Whether users are watching their favorite movie or streaming their favorite artist’s latest album, sounds are clear, crisp and rich in quality.

    Smartphones

    The Galaxy S9 and S9+ also support Dolby Atmos, giving the effect of 360-degree sound. Its audio experience is complemented by Samsung’s revolutionary Infinity Display.

    First introduced on the Galaxy S8, the bold, bright Super AMOLED Infinity Display blends right into the phone with virtually no distracting notches.

    With adaptive contrast enhancement, users can use their device even in direct sunlight.

    A Device that Fits with the Connected Lifestyle

    As the first smartphone to support the new SmartThings app, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ are the central hub to manage every facet of the connected lifestyle at home, at the office or on the go.

    The SmartThings app will be introduced with the Galaxy S9 and S9+ and will connect to other Samsung and non-Samsung devices.

    The Best Comes Standard with the Galaxy Foundation

    Samsung sets the gold standard for smartphones with IP68 water and dust resistance and wireless charging and goes a step beyond with the Galaxy S9 and S9+.

    The devices now support expandable memory of up to 400GB with a Micro SD Card and are equipped with the latest premium application processors offering powerful performance and sophisticated image processing.

    In addition, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ give users peace of mind knowing that their phone is protected by Knox 3.1, Samsung’s latest defense-grade security platform.

    The Galaxy S9 and S9+ support three different biometric authentication options – iris, fingerprint, and facial recognition – so users can choose the way they want to protect their device and applications.

    The devices feature Intelligent Scan, a new verification that intelligently uses the collective strength of iris scanning and facial recognition technology to quickly and conveniently unlock a user’s phone in various situations.

    The Galaxy S9 and S9+ also introduce Dedicated Fingerprint, giving users the option to use a different fingerprint to access Secure Folder than the one used to unlock the phone.

    The Galaxy S9 and S9+ are available in Nigeria from Friday, March 23rd, 2018 in Midnight Black, Titanium Gray, and Lilac Purple colours.

    To purchase any of the devices, customers can visit the network providers, MTN, Airtel, Etisalat and GLO; Samsung Experience Stores, and select retail partners nationwide.

    “Customers are encouraged to purchase their S9 smartphones in Nigeria from authorized dealers so they can enjoy a 24-month warranty,” said Director, Information Technology & Mobile (IM), Samsung Electronics West Africa, Olumide Ojo.

  • SMWLagos: Youths unemployability and digital technology

    Organisers of Social Media Week Lagos (SMWLagos) 2018, in a week-long event, gathered thousands of social media and tech lovers across all works of life to learn, share knowledge and collaborate on the future of work, especially with the several disruptions from technological advancements.
    The conference which provides insights and inspiration to help people and businesses understand how to achieve more in a hyper-connected world, saw job creation through Social Media and technological innovations dominating panel discussions and startup stands.
    There is no denying that technological disruption and its effects on employment has become a sensitive part of every economic discourse across the globe. In Nigeria also, from academic to social as well as political, there is no difference.
    In an era marked by rapid advances in Automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI), affiliate marketing, Coding and Data mining, an increase in jobs lost and jobs gained cannot be overemphasized.
    At SMWLagos, the largest tech and digital media event in Africa, Panelists urged young Nigerians to leverage on the benefits that digital technology provides to position themselves for employment.
    Speaking during a session at the conference, with the theme: “The Freelance Economy: Technology and the Future of Jobs, Moses Oruaze Dickson, Managing Solicitor, TRIAX Solicitors, stated that technology is creating a new wave of digital entrepreneurs, who can provide their skills and expertise at the comfort of their home, without having to resume in a conventional office environment.
    This trend, according to him, would support the government in solving the unemployment problem in the country, which has led many youths to be involved in criminal activities. “While the government can provide enabling environment through policies and technology infrastructure, young people can create opportunities for themselves through technology,” he said.
    Oruaze also emphasized the role of training in creating these digital jobs, stressing that training in- and out-of-school youth with basic and advanced digital skills will connect young people with job opportunities in the digital economy, leading to innovation, higher productivity and competitiveness, expanding markets, access to work and entrepreneurship opportunities.
    No doubt, this skill set is able to retrain a graduate who might find it difficult to get employment, on how to succeed through digital entrepreneurship. This is also able to help address the Nigerian graduates’ unemployability challenge.
    Confirming this stance, Keji Giwa, CEO of Career Insights stated that the youths can only leverage on the transformative power of technology to create jobs for themselves when they are equipped with a range of digital skills.
    Giwa further opined that while technology can enhance education, reduce youth unemployment and promote social and economic development, it is the responsibility of young people to explore these opportunities.
    Her words: “Skills like coding, web development, graphic design can provide employment for young people and these skills can be offered on freelance and hire platforms. Today, people do not need to wait for the government to get jobs, they can create jobs for themselves if they acquire digital skills.”
    Worthy of note is the fact that the technology-driven world in which we live is filled with promises but also challenges; cars that drive selves, machines that read X-rays, and algorithms that respond to customer-service inquiries are all manifestations of powerful new forms of automation.
    Yet even as these innovations increase around us and improve our lives, their use will undeniably substitute for some work activities humans currently perform. Unfortunately, the concern used to be the rate of unemployed youths in the country, who account for a significant portion of the nation’s population. Now, it is sadly the unemployability because the school system is not structured to train students for a technology-driven society.
    However, the take home from 2018 SMWLagos is for young people to invest in themselves by acquiring digital skills while also leveraging on social media to position themselves and make themselves marketable in the job market.
    The event succeeded in gathering thousands of people to be inspired by over 300 world class thoughts leaders, innovators, business practitioners, and pop culture luminaries from Nigeria, across Africa and around the world.
  • iShaka: A new emergency application

    iShaka: A new emergency application

    Chinyere Okoroafor

    For the purpose of getting quick help in times of distress, a new application called iShaka Emergency has been designed to keep subscribers safe by connecting the user with its important contacts in click of a button.

    The application which debuted in the United Kingdom (UK) recently can be used on android, window and apple phones all over the world. It can be downloaded on Google play store and App store.

    According to the initiator, Mr Chidora Victor Okororie, a Nigerian-UK based Information Technology (IT) Consultant, who spoke through the phone with the Nation said was created when someone he knew died in a domestic violence which he thought would have been stopped if the victim alerted someone for intervention.

    He added that iShaka Emergency enable users to dial emergency services or text related messages to two of their pre-selected emergency contacts at the touch of a button adding that either of the two contacts is linked to sender’s actual GPS location.

    READ ALSO: Valentine: ‘Don’t compromise safety’

    ‘’iShaka emergency application displays emergency options, ranging from domestic violence, robbery, riot, sickness, accident to fire incident. However, usage cannot be limited to only those scenarios as deemed fit by user. If messages are sent in error, a cancellation message is available to deescalate any panic,’’ he said.

    Okororie who said the safe application was well received in the UK, explained that during application sign-up, user provides his / her name, phone number and two varied emergency contacts. They (emergency contacts) also have to enable their GPS or location finder to have access to their location.

  • IWD 2018: Microsoft, Tech4dev Graduate over 400 Women Coders

    IWD 2018: Microsoft, Tech4dev Graduate over 400 Women Coders

    In a bid to bridge the gender divide in the tech ecosystem in Nigeria and to empower women to be self-dependent and become leaders in tech, Tech4dev, with Microsoft’s backing, has successfully trained over 400 women coders from the Nigerian Women Techsters’ first cohort of training.
    Tech4dev is a non-profit social enterprise that seeks to create proactive and reactive technological solutions to help solve the world’s greatest problems, with primary focus on education, public health and civic engagement, backed by Microsoft, came up with the Nigerian Women Techsters (NWT), an initiative that is aimed at helping young women between the ages of 18-40 get the training and support needed to acquire coding skills.
    Training in the first cohort began in 11th November in Ondo state and subsequently in Ekiti and Oyo States. The women were trained in the three training tracks of Web and Mobile Applications Development, Embedded Systems and Games Development as well as an online business training module. The training which lasted 12 weeks has seen to the birth of over 400 women coders.
    On Saturday, 3rd of March, 2018, to mark the International Women’s Day themed #PressforProgress and #MakeWhatsNext, the women, who had undergone training under the Nigerian Women Techsters Initiative were graduated at the Curator’s Hub. This event, powered by Microsoft, featured Keynote addresses from Kitan Aboluwarin, Project Lead, SeedDev and Dr. Ronke Thompson, Member, NWT Advisory Board and Lecturer, Computer Science Department,  Federal University of Technology, Akure. Both speakers stressed the importance of creating an enabling environment for women to thrive in the tech ecosystem. While Aboluwarin admonished the participants to never get too comfortable but to constantly seek knowledge, Thompson encouraged beneficiaries of the programme to think themselves activists for other women henceforth by pressing for improved conditions and access to development training.
    Olusola Amusan, Philanthropy Lead at Microsoft Nigeria reiterated that Microsoft believes that empowering women in STEM fields drives economic growth, equality and innovation. “We want to create a culture where more women are attracted to the STEM fields and believe in themselves as having a career path in the technology industry. Despite the stats, a new generation of ‘girl geeks’ are making a real mark on the technology sector and propelling the economic growth of their countries forward, like Senegalese, Mariéme Jamme, CEO of IT organisation, SpotOne. We need more female leaders like this. It is hard enough to navigate a career path without a mentor, particularly without female mentors in STEM that can act as ambassadors for young women” he said.
    Speaking on her experience as a participant, Ngozi Aduloju, 40-year old mother of four said “For me, the Games Development class has not only impacted my life but has set a lot of things in motion for my future and that of my generation. I have a 13 year old son who picked up interest in my classes, we became a team; studying and watching online tutorials together. I now have an understanding of what it takes to make a game and have become more appreciative of what it takes to conceptualize a game that can actually keep me interested. I also totally agree that educating a woman implies educating a nation because my kids have developed some interest in coding and they share this interest with their friends too. That way, we keep spreading the attitude.”
    The graduating participants presented their team projects, pointing out their relevance to sustainable development in their communities; from games that can help sensitize the public on Lassa fever, devices that are useful in smart farming, an application that allows people to donate used books, etc.
    While speaking at the event, Peace Odili, Education Programs Manager, Tech4dev, said, “The project is set for a period of three years during which Tech4Dev as well as other supporting agencies intend to take the programme to other African counties thereby giving African women an opportunity to develop themselves.”
    Speaking further, she said, “This vision is what is taking us to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW) in New York. We hope to be able to meet with people from other nations who are passionate about leveraging ICT to better the lot of women in their communities and share our ultimate goal with them.”
    The following categories of awards were presented to participants in both states and in all training tracks:
    The Most Committed Participants
    Ngozi Aduloju – Games Development
    Adaeze Timilehin – Web and Mobile Applications Development
    Best Team Project- Team J-slider
    Best Students (Online Training)
    Ondo
    Adejoke Ifafesobi- Embedded systems
    Olubunmi Fatoba– Web and Mobile Applications Development
    Lawal Mariam -Embedded systems
    Ekiti
    Oluwatimilehin Adaeze-Web and Mobile Applications Development
    Otenaike Oluwakemi-Web and Mobile Applications Development
    Fatoba Oluwaseyi-Web and Mobile Applications Development
    Most Outstanding Story
    Ngozi Aduloju-Ondo
    Adedipe Fumilayo-Ekiti
    Most Consistent Participants (12/12 attendance)
    Ojo Damilola
    Awhobiwom Agba
    The event ended with a photo session and a campaign for women empowerment tagged #pressforprogress and #makewhatsnext.
  • Itel partners Google to launch Android 8.0 Oreo

    Itel partners Google to launch Android 8.0 Oreo

    itel Mobile has announced plans which will see the mobile phone giant launch phones that run on the Android 8.0 Oreo™ (Go edition) Operating System (OS) later this year.

    Recall that itel is one of the first global mobile phone brands to feature the new optimised OS which will offer consumers a number of benefits including a smooth and fast experience tailored to devices with 1GB of RAM or less.

    Other features include the new and reimagined Google apps for entry-level smartphones including Google™ Go, YouTube Go, and the Google Assistant for Android (Go edition)

    It also runs on an enhanced data efficiency system.

    Newly launched phones which will be built on Google’s Android Oreo (Go edition) operating system to deliver better user experience, and cater for a wide range of consumer groups across a diverse range of international markets. Android Oreo (Go edition) comes with new apps reimagined for the next generation of users, such as YouTube Go – a new app for users to watch, download, and share videos while controlling their data.

    itel, with entry-level product line specifically designed for both Africa, South East Asia and South Asia markets, will be committed to supporting Google’s target market priorities.

    Since its launch more than a decade ago, itel has focused on serving consumer groups, by providing phones to emerging markets and giving millions worldwide an opportunity to own a device for the first time.

    The partnership marks one of the firm’s main initiatives of 2018, with a series of additional product announcement to be made throughout the year. All of which reinforce the firm’s commitment to innovation and clear focus on growth in developing markets by understanding and meeting the ever-changing needs of consumers.

    Commenting on the partnership, Oke Umurhohwo, Marketing Communications Manager, itel Mobile, said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Google which will see itel launch series of new phones that run on Android Oreo (Go edition) operating system during the coming months”

    “As the world’s mobile industry converges in Barcelona for Mobile World Congress, we are happy to reveal these plans, which will give consumers in Nigeria and other emerging markets an opportunity to own highly efficient and user-friendly phones”

    Sagar Kamdar, Director, Product Management, Android, said: “Android Oreo (Go edition) is specifically optimised to bring the magic of Google and Android to smartphones with limited memory and processing power. We’re excited to see itel Mobile take the next step towards bringing computing to more people by launching Android Oreo (Go edition) phones.

  • Bounce news set to reward loyal users with shopping trip to Dubai

    Bounce news set to reward loyal users with shopping trip to Dubai

    Loyal users of the Bounce News App stand a chance to win mouth-watering shopping trip to Dubai or an all-expense paid trip to watch a live premiership match in an on-going consumer promo which started in January and runs until the end of March.

    According to the General Manager, Goodluck Ikporo of Bounce News, users who access the Bounce News app frequently will stand a chance to win weekly prizes which includes 750MB data bundles, concert tickets and smartphones. The weekly winners will be picked by random draw every Friday and their names published weekly on Mondays, exclusively on the Bounce News.

    Ikporo noted that the goal of the campaign was to celebrate loyal users of the news platform and also reward them for their support since the platform was launched less than a year ago. He added that the platform has achieved a lot since its launch last year because it delivers relevant stories tailored to empower its consumers.

    The promo climaxes with a grand draw where winners of the grand prizes will be determined. The grand prizes include a shopping trip to Dubai for two people worth ₦ 4 million and an all-expenses trip for two people to see a live premiership match also worth ₦ 4 million.

    The campaign which is one of the biggest by any online news platform in Nigeria is open to new and existing users of the app. It is also exclusively targeted at Nigerian consumers who are 18 years and above.

    In order to qualify, consumers must download and install the Bounce News app and use it frequently. Also, existing users are required to fill an entry form inside the app in order to participate in the competition. “Consumers need to complete the above step and in addition, use the Bounce News app on their mobile phone more than once a week to qualify for a weekly prize,” the GM said, adding that weekly prize winners stay eligible for the grand prize at the end of the campaign.

    The Bounce app is available on both Android and iOS. To download, simply visit the respective app stores and search for Bounce News Nigeria.

  • Cloud Printing Seamless on G Series, says Canon Director

    Cloud Printing Seamless on G Series, says Canon Director

    In this interview, the Regional Sales Director (Middle East) at Canon, Somesh Adukia, shared insights on the essence of digital technology and cloud innovation on Canon G.series printers.

    Why has Canon decided to introduce Pixma G Series printers to the Nigerian Market?

    The demand for cost effective office printers have significantly increased in Nigeria for offices where high yield printing is the norm. There has also been a boom in demand for home users who enjoy printing all their best photographs. With the Canon Pixma Series, our customers in Nigeria get to enjoy efficient cost effective printing.

    How do this new printers work?  

    The G1400 is a single function printer, while the PIXMA G2400 and PIXMA G3400 & G4400 are all-in-one printers offering print, scan and copy functionalities. We are in an age where internet connectivity drives our day to day personal and professional lives.  The G series range are Wi-Fi enabled and offer printing without wires from a PC, as well as smartphones or tablets, with full compatibility with Canon’s new PRINT app.

    This Cloud printing lets you send documents and photos to print from anywhere in the world, and remotely print from popular services including Instagram, Google Drive, Facebook, Dropbox and Flickr.

    For truly creative photo printing the G series range are also compatible with Canon’s Easy-PhotoPrint+ and are accessible from tablets or a web browser, the software accesses your photos and lets you edit them before printing creative projects such as greeting cards or calendars.

    Are there improved innovation on speed and capacity in the printers?

    The printers have been designed to cater to customers’ needs this is why each printer incorporates a durable FINE print head system for high quality prints at fast speeds, as well as technology that stops air penetrating the ink feeding tubes, ensuring reliability and stability when printing in high volumes.

    For prints with high levels of detail the 2pl, 4800x1200dpi print engine offers smooth gradations and fine detail, perfect for intricate documents or high-quality photographs. Each model in the range also prints borderless 4 x 6” photos in as little as 60[i] seconds.

    What makes Pixma G series different?

    The new printers all come with Canon’s My Image Garden software, which includes a range of applications including Creative Park. An exclusive software created by Canon that helps you print a variety personalised creations including cards, crafts and even high-detail paper arts, ranging from amateur to artisan professional crafters.

    Also the new compact refillable ink tank models combine an aesthetic design and ease of use. The four high-yields, front facing ink tanks are immediately visible, making it simple and fast to check ink levels, while the uniquely designed ink bottles make topping up a quick and mess-free task.

    Are the printers available in Nigeria?

    The printers are available at all Canon Authorized dealers including, prominent E-Commerce sites like Jumia, Konga and Yudala.

    What keeps Canon in the Nigerian market?

    Nigeria is one of the largest African markets in terms of potential and GDP, and we feel it is an untapped territory in terms of its potential and growth. It is also an important market due to largest population allowing it to be a key market for Canon.

    It is an important hub in Industrial & Production Printing segment, and has a thriving film industry – all of which Canon can support through our value added services. Our goal is to extend our services to the largest number of customers possible by being closer to them.

    What plans do you have for after sales services?

    Earlier this year Canon Central and North Africa partnered with three service centers in Nigeria namely Ensure Services, Kontakt and Technology Distribution (TD). These service stations offer total after-sales product repair services in eight locations across Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt. The service centers will also support all B2C products including DSC, DSLR, professional video, OPP inkjet- and laser-printers, projectors and calculators.

  • iSON Technologies Win Two Covetious Awards @ NITA

    iSON Technologies Win Two Covetious Awards @ NITA

    iSON Group bagged two Prestigious awards at the 2017 Nigerian Technology Awards, (NITA) in Lagos.

    At the annual awards, iSON Technologies -subsidiary of iSON Group-carted away the coveted Managed Services & Support Company of the Year award while iSON BPO International Limited, took home the Innovative Call Centre Service Provider of the Year award.

    Henry Erigha, Sales Director – West Africa and Cynthia Egwudobi, Business Development Executive receiving the award for Managed Services & Support Company of the Year for iSON Technologies.

    Sujeet Matwankar, Head- HR and Henry Erigha, Sales Director – West Africa receiving the award for Innovative Call Centre Service Provider of the Year for iSON BPO. These awards were in recognition of iSON Group’s excellent contributions and achievements towards building a sustainable economy in Nigeria’s Technology space.

    The Awards also aimed to encourage the company to further develop innovative and creative Technology solutions, which will uplift the image of Nigeria both locally and internationally. The Nigeria Technology Awards (NiTA) is an award ceremony organized to recognize, celebrate and reward Technology Entrepreneurs, Innovators, Academicians, Inventors and policy makers (Government) in Nigeria through online voting.

    The Awards is aimed at building a large scale and internationally recognized Technology Awards in Nigeria.

    Sujeet Matwankar, Head- HR and Henry Erigha, Sales Director – West Africa receiving the award for Innovative Call Centre Service Provider of the Year for iSON BPO.

    The award ceremony is organised by Technology AVENUE a leading Technology, Media, Events & Entertainment Management Company with unparalleled and unique approach to service delivery.

    Accepting the awards on behalf of Mr. Ramesh Awtaney, the Founder and Chairman, iSON Group, were Sujeet Matwankar Head of Human Resources, iSON BPO and Bakare Adebayo, Deputy General Manager – HR, iSON BPO and Mr. Henry Erigha Deputy Sales Director, iSON Technologies and Ms. Cynthia Egwudobi, Business Development Executive, iSON Technologies.

    They all expressed excitement and gratitude for being part of the award ceremony. Sujeet Matwankar said, ‘We are deeply honored to receive both awards. iSON is passionate about driving and expanding the IT / ITes / Contact Center industry all across our footprints around the world, especially Africa with its tremendous potential.

    To be recognized by NiTA, is a rewarding achievement to us.” For over six years in Africa, iSON has taken the lead in driving digital inclusion and providing end to end solutions that facilitate the growth and diversity of technology within its markets.

    Its Founder and Chairman, Ramesh Awtaney, has received several awards and commendations for his exemplary role in fostering a truly Digital Africa. iSON’s investment in developing local systems and empowering local talent through skill development centre has become the prototype to follow.

    The company has inculcated proven best practices from IT driven markets like India and reversed the exploitative trend of “taking work to IP” that was prevalent in African industry. Instead, iSON Group has proven that it is possible to take “IP to work” to help Africa generate large scale employment and revenues.

  • Data protection experts task NASS on legal framework

    Data protection experts task NASS on legal framework

    African Academic Network on Internet Policy have requested that the National Assembly inserts the following in a data protection framework or bill; use of personal data must be in accordance with the purpose for which it was collected, consent of the individual must be obtained prior to collecting his/her personal data; rights of the individual to seek legal remedies for misuse and or unauthorized accessed to his/her personal data must be guaranteed”.

    This was the submission at the two day seminar/Colloquium of the African Academic Network on Internet Policy held at IITA, Ibadan recently.
    The Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy, (ISGPP), was the host institution of the African Academic Network on Internet Policy – a multidisciplinary problem solving Think-Tank.

    The theme of the two day seminar which started on Monday was, ‘Privacy and Security: Building the Evidence Base and a multi-stakeholder action base for Personal Data Protection in Nigeria’. It was revealed at the seminar, that most African countries including Nigeria do not have data protection laws.

    At the panel sessions, five primary concerns around the collection of the use of personal data both online and offline in Nigeria, they include,  the use of personal data may be incompatible with the purpose for which it was collected; individuals have no rights in relation to the collection, use and storage of their personal information; Nigerians are not offered adequate opportunities to consent to or opt out of data collection; there is limited to no transparency around the processing of personal data and there is limited information available around how this personal data is used and stored, leading to greater risk of a personal data breach; children are exposed to privacy risks online and often lack the legal capacity to give valid consent and may unknowingly disclose personal information to online platforms due to the appealing nature of their visual content.
    In his opening remarks, the Executive vice chairman of ISGPP, Dr. Tunji Olaopa said that African continent is touted as fertile ground for Netpreneurs, Mobile institutions, increasing use of technology and leveraging the internet to address developmental challenges.

    He added that, with the exponential increase in the use of personal information by businesses in technology age, data protection has become such a defining compelling agenda for priority attention in many countries worldwide. Olaopa emphasized that it is high time that Africa aligns itself with this global movement by coming up with sufficiently strong and intelligent data protection policy to drive the growth of the African Digital Economy.

    While giving a brief overview of the African Academic Network on Internet Policy, member of the steering committee, Dr. Temitope Aladesanmi said that the formation of the group was as a result of the poor and low level of African voices specifically to Internet Policy and governance. He explained that the European Union General Data Protection Rule (GDPR) would come to effect May 2019 and as such, it has significant impact for some local organizations who are in business with the EU maybe required to conform with the standard.

    “One of the direct output of the main conference was the imperative of the need to begin an immediate discourse with respect to data protection and security in Africa.”

    According to Co-creation Hub Nigeria,  Emmanuel Okochu, said that the biggest challenge in Data Protection in Nigeria is that most users do not have a detailed understanding of positive sides of data protection entails.

    “The people you seek to protect are the ones who don’t understand why they should be protected. When you try to explain to people how dangerous it is to keep posting every thing about them online”.

    Several representatives came from other African including, Nigeria, South Africa, Mauritius, Kenya, Ghana, Code voir to mention a few.

    According to Tope Ogundipe of Paradigm Initiative said; “it is dangerous to exist in an environment where you don’t know how your information is used. It is possible you are put under surveillance without any legal framework”.

    Dr. Lolade Shyllon of Faculty of law, University of Pretoria, suggested that targeted national interventions and advocacy should be dependent on accessibility to ongoing or future national processes for the development of laws and policies on the protection of personal information.

    Interventions could involve technical guidance for states to ensure proposed laws adopt a balanced approached with human rights consideration, assistance with amendment of laws and policies or addressing implementation challenges”

    Panelists and speakers at the events were, World Wide Web foundation, Nnennan Nwakanma, Former director, Data Protection commission Ghana, Teki Akuetti Falconer, Partner Webber Wentzel Okyerebea Ampofo-Anti, Douglas Oyango, Google Policy Lead, Sub Saharan Africa, Titi Akinsanmi, Tope Ogundipe, Barbara Imaryo, Research manager, Research ICT, Africa, Enrico Calandro to mention a few.

  • YouTube rewind: Top 10 comedy skits, music videos in 2017

    YouTube rewind: Top 10 comedy skits, music videos in 2017

    YouTube has released its annual rewind lists, showcasing the moments that captured the attention of Nigerians and YouTube users around the globe this year.

    The top 10 videos (excluding from major music labels) most viewed by Nigerians this year include comedy skits by Mark Angel, coming in 3rd and 8th position, as well as political concerns with the return of President Buhari from his medical trip to the United Kingdom and the Biafra protests coming in at 2nd and 4th position.

    A look at the music videos most watched in Nigeria, shows how Nigerians have embraced indigenous music but not without a few foreign favourites. Songs like Davido’s ‘If’ and ‘Fall’ and DJ Khaled’s ‘Wild Thoughts’ with Rihanna and ‘I’m the One’ took top spot. Nigerian favourites ‘Come closer’ by Wiz Kid featuring Drake, ‘Wo’ by Olamide, ‘Nobody Ugly’ by P-Square all made the list.

    Globally, the most watched video with 181,958,411 views was Thai love song ‘As Long As We Will Become The Dust’ by Oyster Masked. The melody and beautiful meaning of the song makes it one of the performances that captured the world’s attention in 2017.

    In the category of the most watched music video globally, Nigerians joined the rest of the world in their love for Latino music as ‘Despacito’ by Luis Fonsi featuring Daddy Yankee tops the category, followed by Ed Sheeran who dominated both the music and non music video category.

    Checkout the YouTube Rewind 2017 Channel for more top lists from around the world.

    2017 Top 10 trending videos (Nigeria)

    Deaf And Dumb Emmanuella Vs Akin And Pawpaw – (Nigerian Nollywood Movies 2017)
    Welcome Back President Buhari: See how the President Landed after Medical Trip in UK
    Maths Teacher (Mark Angel Comedy) (Episode 118)
    Biafra: Kanu I Want Binta To See This
    NAIJ.com visits Evans the kidnapper’s house, how should he be punished?
    Channels Television: Boko Haram Special Documentary
    Wo – Olamide | Ikorodu Street Kids Dance (dream catchers dance)
    Longer Throat (Mark Angel Comedy) (Episode 101)
    President Is Back – Pete Edochie (African Nollywood Movies)
    Akpos And Beaty 1 – (Nollywood Romantic Movies)

    Top 10 Trending music videos (Nigeria)

    Davido – If [Official Video]
    Olamide – Wo!! [Official Video]
    Davido – Fall
    P-Square – Nobody Ugly [Official Video]
    WizKid – Come Closer ft. Drake
    Tekno – Yawa [Official Video]
    Flavour  – Most High (feat. Semah G. Weifur) [Official Video]
    DJ Khaled – Wild Thoughts ft. Rihanna, Bryson Tiller
    DJ Khaled – I’m the One ft. Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper, Lil Wayne
    Ed Sheeran – Shape of You [Official Video]

    Top 10 trending videos in (Global)

    As Long As We Will Become The Dust – Oyster Masked | THE MASK SINGER 2
    ED SHEERAN – Shape Of You | Kyle Hanagami Choreography
    Ping Pong Trick Shots 3 | – Dude Perfect
    Darci Lynne: 12-Year-Old Singing Ventriloquist Gets Golden Buzzer – America’s Got Talent 2017
    Ed Sheeran – Carpool Karaoke
    Lady Gaga’s FULL Pepsi Zero Sugar Super Bowl LI Halftime Show | NFL
    “INAUGURATION DAY” – A Bad Lip Reading of Donald Trump’s Inauguration
    History of the entire world, I guess
    In a Heartbeat – Animated Short Film
    Children interrupt BBC News interview – BBC News

    Top 10 Trending music videos (Global)

    Luis Fonsi – Despacito ft. Daddy Yankee
    Ed Sheeran – Shape of You [Official Video]
    J Balvin, Willy William – Mi Gente (Official Video)
    Maluma – Felices los 4 (Official Video)
    Bruno Mars – That’s What I Like [Official Video]
    Chris Jeday – Ahora Dice (Official Video) ft. J. Balvin, Ozuna, Arcángel
    05. El Amante – Nicky Jam (Video Oficial) (Álbum Fénix)
    Jason Derulo – Swalla (feat. Nicki Minaj & Ty Dolla $ign) (Official Music Video)
    DJ Khaled – I’m the One ft. Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper, Lil Wayne
    Enrique Iglesias – SUBEME LA RADIO (Official Video) ft. Descemer Bueno, Zion & Lennox

    The top trending videos for 2017 are based on views, shares, comments, likes and more. These lists reflect the amazing variety of content that YouTube audiences love, watch and listen to, day in and day out.

    YouTube has over a billion users — almost one-third of all people on the Internet — and everyday people watch hundreds of millions of hours on YouTube and generate billions of views.

    YouTube overall, and even YouTube on mobile alone, reaches more 18-34 and 18-49 year-olds than any cable network in the U.S.
    The number of hours people spend watching videos (aka watch time) on YouTube is up 60% y/y, the fastest growth we’ve seen in 2 years.
    The number of people watching YouTube per day is up 40% y/y since March 2014.

    The number of users coming to YouTube who start at the YouTube homepage, similar to the way they might turn on their TV, is up more than 3x y/y.
    80% of YouTube’s views are from outside of the U.S.

    YouTube has launched local versions in more than 70 countries. You can navigate YouTube in a total of 76 different languages (covering 95% of the Internet population).