The Nation Newspaper

Category: Tech

  • Taraba, Algorand sign MoU on Blockchain Technology

    Taraba, Algorand sign MoU on Blockchain Technology

    Taraba state government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global blockchain giant, Algorand Foundation to train hundreds of youths in the state in blockchain technology and software development.

    The training programme, which is being sponsored by Algorand, is aimed at introducing young people in the state to the latest innovations in blockchain technology and equip them with skills on software development.

    Speaking at the event, the Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas stated that the state is willing to partner with a reputable organization like Algorand that can train and enhance the skills and capacities of youths in the state in technological innovations.

    Represented by the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Aminu Alkali, the governor noted that the collaboration between the state and Algorand Foundation would improve competitiveness in local technology and impact positively on the growth of the state and national economy.

    He enjoined the beneficiaries of the training programme to take advantage of the opportunity to empower themselves with relevant skills that would transform their lives and open windows of opportunities for them.

    In his speech, Country Head of Algorand Foundation, Benjamin Onuoha, described blockchain technology as a very powerful technology and database that can be deployed to do a lot of things ranging from decentralized and secure identity management and information sharing in a secured and very fast manner.

    Other uses of blockchain, according to Onuoha, is to tackle the problem of piracy and counterfeiting as it can be used to determine the authenticity of goods particularly in the local manufacturing sector as well as in supply chain management to reduce fraud and promote transparency.

    He however stressed that the main objective of the training programme is to train software developers in the state on how to create software solutions that would impact positively on the economy of the state.

    On his part, Taraba State Commissioner of Digital Economy and Innovation, Gideon Nonso disclosed that Taraba is the second state in Nigeria after Plateau state to benefit from the training programme being conducted by the Algorand Foundation.

    Describing the training as timely, the Commissioner revealed that the state has already put machinery in motion to establish a technology village in the state which would serve as catalyst to technical advancement in the state.

    Most of the young participants who spoke at the training expressed their gratitude to Algorand foundation for forging strategic partnerships that will empower the youths and advance blockchain adoption in Nigeria.

  • Bombshelter Digital, Revelator Labs to empower independent artists

    Bombshelter Digital, Revelator Labs to empower independent artists

    Bombshelter Digital, a major player in the music industry, has announced a strategic partnership with blockchain-powered music distribution leader Revelator Labs. Together, they have launched the Discovery Community, an artist incubator and events platform aimed at showcasing emerging independent musicians and visual artistes from across Africa.

    The Discovery Community officially launched on September 6, 2024, with the release of the EP Discovery Community Volume 1. The EP features six tracks that blend Afrobeats and alte fusion sounds and highlight fast-rising talents such as OMA, Busayo, Wasalu, Givens, Naya Akanji, Toyemusic, Victor Collins, Leeobi, MisterKay, and Egar Boi.

    This partnership aims to revolutionize the music landscape by combining advanced AI and blockchain technology. Through the initiative, select artistes will have their music tokenized, enabling automated and transparent revenue distribution. The platform also offers affordable, high-impact marketing solutions to help independent artists gain visibility without large investments.

    Additionally, blockchain technology will ensure accurate and automatic royalty payments, enhancing trust and efficiency in the system.

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    Oluwaseyi Ladele, Head of Music Licensing at Bombshelter Digital, stated: “This initiative not only showcases the best of new music but also sets a new benchmark for how artistes are compensated and recognized in the digital age.”

    “The Web3 music ecosystem will exist in parallel to the streaming economy for years to come. To maximize their benefits, creators will need to engage in both, recognizing their distinct strengths and potential for synergistic collaboration. We are delighted to have Bombshelter Digital as a partner to help us make this a reality,” added Gilad Woltsovitch, Head of Revelator Labs.

    The Discovery Community is expected to become a key platform for discovering Africa’s next wave of music talent.

  • Digcey Technology secures $3m funding to accelerate expansion

    Digcey Technology secures $3m funding to accelerate expansion

    Digcey Technology, a fast-growing fintech startup, has successfully raised $3 million in funding to scale its operations and drive financial innovation across Nigeria. The startup, founded by Elvis Gbodi, is set to leverage this investment to enhance its product offerings, expand its market reach, and strengthen its technological infrastructure.

    The funding round, led by a consortium of investors, highlights growing confidence in Digcey Technology’s mission to revolutionize digital payments, financial inclusion, and wealth management solutions. With an increasing demand for seamless and secure financial transactions, the company aims to introduce cutting-edge tools that cater to individuals and businesses seeking efficient digital financial solutions.

    Speaking on the funding milestone, Elvis Gbodi expressed enthusiasm about the company’s next growth phase. “This investment marks a significant step forward in our journey to redefine fintech in Nigeria. We are committed to delivering innovative solutions that empower users and drive economic growth,” he said.

    Industry analysts see this development as a strong indicator of the rising investor interest in Africa’s fintech space. As the sector continues to witness rapid adoption of digital financial services, Digcey Technology’s expansion is expected to contribute significantly to bridging the financial gap for millions across the continent.

    With this capital injection, Digcey Technology is poised to enhance its platform, attract top talent, and solidify its position as a key player in the fintech landscape. The company’s next steps will be closely watched as it moves to disrupt traditional financial systems with its tech-driven solutions.

  • Adebayo Desile’s passion for empowering SMEs using AI and data

    Adebayo Desile’s passion for empowering SMEs using AI and data

    In the ever-evolving landscape of business, where data reigns supreme, Adebayo Desile, a seasoned business intelligence engineer with a profound understanding of economics, has emerged as a guiding force for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI).

    With a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Economics, coupled with over five years of invaluable experience in data analytics, Adebayo’s expertise lies in transforming raw data into actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making and foster competitive advantage.

    As a business intelligence engineer at Amazon, a global powerhouse in the technology and e-commerce realms, Adebayo has witnessed firsthand the transformative impact AI can have on businesses of all sizes. Driven by a passion for empowering SMEs, he has dedicated himself to demystifying the complexities of AI and making its capabilities accessible to businesses that may have previously lacked the resources or expertise to leverage this powerful technology.

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    In an era where data proliferation is unprecedented, SMEs often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information at their disposal. Adebayo’s approach is to harness the capabilities of AI to sift through this deluge of data, identify patterns, and extract meaningful insights that can inform strategic decisions and fuel growth.

    Through AI-powered predictive analytics, SMEs can anticipate market trends, customer preferences, and potential risks, enabling them to stay ahead of the curve and maintain a competitive edge. Adebayo”s expertise in leveraging AI algorithms and machine learning models allows businesses to uncover hidden correlations and make data-driven decisions that optimize operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive profitability.

    Moreover, AI’s ability to automate repetitive tasks and streamline processes holds immense potential for SMEs, freeing up valuable resources and enabling them to focus on core competencies and strategic initiatives. Adebayo’s approach empowers SMEs to leverage AI for intelligent process automation, enhancing efficiency, reducing operational costs, and fostering agility in an ever-changing business landscape.

    Recognizing the unique challenges faced by SMEs, Adebayo’s work goes beyond mere technological implementation. He advocates for a holistic approach that combines AI integration with strategic guidance, change management, and upskilling initiatives. By fostering a data-driven culture within SMEs and equipping their workforce with the necessary skills to harness AI effectively, Adebayo aims to create a sustainable competitive advantage that transcends short-term gains.

    As AI continues to permeate every facet of business operations, Desile Adebayo’s mission to empower SMEs with the transformative power of AI and data-driven insights represents a vital step in leveling the playing field. Through his work, SMEs can unlock new frontiers of innovation, agility, and growth, ensuring their long-term success in an increasingly data-driven and AI-powered world.

  • Trailblazer in Tech Entrepreneurship: Honoring Business Leaders Driving Nigeria’s Future

    Trailblazer in Tech Entrepreneurship: Honoring Business Leaders Driving Nigeria’s Future

    Entrepreneurship is often framed as the pursuit of breakthrough ideas. But in nations undergoing deep economic transformation, it is increasingly about something more foundational: the building of systems. In Nigeria, the entrepreneurs gaining recognition are developing infrastructure with national relevance, scalability, and integrity. They are redefining what business means in a country where systems, not slogans, are what carry long-term value.

    Each year, the National Entrepreneurship Honors (NEH) shines a spotlight on such individuals, those whose work is not only innovative but indispensable. Among its most prestigious distinctions, the Trailblazer in Tech Entrepreneurship Award stands out as a symbol of meaningful progress, system-wide utility, and responsible innovation.

    Curated through a rigorous selection process led by respected professionals, industry experts, and private-sector leaders, the award is reserved for a trailblazer whose vision delivers more than just functionality, it enables national advancement.

    To win this award is to join a rare group of thinkers and builders whose work has become embedded in the very structure of Nigeria’s economic future. These individuals don’t merely disrupt, they design the rails on which future industries run. In recognizing a recipient, the NEH affirms that innovation must serve more than ambition; it must serve society.

    Past recipients of the Trailblazer in Tech Entrepreneurship Award include:

    • Chinelo Menkiti (2024)
    • Nkem Odiora (2023)
    • Samuel Efeduma (2022)
    • Zainab Aluko (2021)
    • Olawale Irele (2020)
    • Chika Ofodile (2019)
    • Hadiza Bello-Omoruyi (2018)

    Each of these names represents a milestone in the evolution of Nigeria’s technology and enterprise landscape. From strengthening digital infrastructure to elevating standards in governance and delivery, their contributions have expanded access, improved trust, and redefined what leadership looks like in tech.

    As a new cycle of nominations begins, the spotlight once again turns to those visionaries who are not just chasing relevance but anchoring resilience. For the National Entrepreneurship Honors, innovation is necessary. It must endure and it must leave the country stronger than it found it.

  • Telcos launch campaign on data management

    Telcos launch campaign on data management

    In a concerted effort to address widespread complaints about data depletion, Nigeria’s Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) have collaboratively launched a consumer sensitisation campaign aimed at providing practical guidance for more effective data management. This initiative is designed to enhance consumer satisfaction by helping subscribers optimise their data usage.

    In a joint, the MNOs highlighted several smart data usage behaviours that can help prevent data depletion. These include disabling automatic app updates, enabling data saver mode, and closing unused apps to prevent background data consumption.

    To prevent unauthorised access and strengthen data security, the MNOs advised consumers to use stronger passwords and regularly update their hotspot and Wi-Fi passwords to prevent unauthorised access.

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    For a seamless video streaming experience, users should ensure they have sufficient data and turn off auto-downloads to effectively manage content consumption.

    With the advent of advanced network technologies like 4G, LTE, and the latest 5G, which offer ultra-fast data speeds and enhanced browsing and streaming experiences, the speed of data consumption and pattern have increased significantly. Consumers are encouraged to understand these changes and manage their data usage accordingly.

    “It is important for consumers to familiarize themselves with the specific terms and conditions of their data plans,” the MNOs emphasized. “Different plans cater to various needs, including weekend-specific plans, social media-only plans, and regular plans configured for night use only.”

  • Eretoru Robert named national technology icon at NTIH Awards

    Eretoru Robert named national technology icon at NTIH Awards

    Eretoru Robert has been honoured with the prestigious National Technology Icon award at this year’s National Technology Innovation Honors (NTIH), in recognition of her exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s technology ecosystem. The ceremony brought together influential leaders from across the tech, government, and development sectors to celebrate a visionary whose work continues to redefine the possibilities of innovation.

    During the ceremony, Dr. Musa Lawal, Director General of the National Technology Innovation Center, commended Robert’s pioneering work in technological innovation and inclusive growth. In his keynote address, he described Robert as “a defining force in Nigeria’s tech evolution—an innovator, mentor, and strategic architect of systems that empower millions.”

    A data scientist turned technology strategist, Eretoru Robert has led the design and development of platforms that enhance efficiency, connectivity, and access across key sectors. Her work ranges from shaping technology ecosystems to mentoring emerging technologists, with a focus on driving sustainable digital transformation at scale.

    She has contributed to the development of data strategy & infrastructure, supported policy discussions on digital governance, and participated in collaborative projects across sectors such as health, finance, and education. Robert’s initiatives have aimed to improve service delivery, enhance transparency, and broaden digital access, particularly in underserved areas.

    Receiving the National Technology Icon award, Robert noted, “This honor is not just for me – it is for every young innovator building with purpose, every policymaker pushing for smarter governance, and every community daring to believe in the power of technology.”

    With this recognition, Eretoru Robert joins a distinguished league of leaders transforming the African tech landscape – not just with code or capital, but with vision, courage, and an unyielding belief in the power of progress.

  • NTIH recognises Kolade Makinde as outstanding technology award recipient

    NTIH recognises Kolade Makinde as outstanding technology award recipient

    At the esteemed National Technology Innovation Honours, Kolade Makinde was awarded the Outstanding Technology Award. The event convened high-level representatives from government, industry, and civic institutions in recognition of an individual whose contributions is actively shaping Nigeria’s tech future through innovation, leadership, and lasting national value.

    The award was presented by Dr. Musa Lawal, Director General of the National Technology Innovation Center, in front of a distinguished assembly of technology experts, policymakers, and international development stakeholders. During his address, Dr. Musa praised Makinde’s contributions as foundational, far-reaching, and vital to the ongoing advancement of the country’s tech transformation strategy.

    “Kolade Makinde exemplifies a new calibre of leadership in the tech space, his efforts are strategic, long-term, and closely aligned with the practical demands of a rapidly evolving society,” the Director General noted. He highlighted the scale of his impact across tech public infrastructure, financial technology systems, governance modernization, and capacity development initiatives.

    Recognized as a proactive leader and transformation advocate, he has earned distinction for driving tech inclusion, modernizing institutional processes, and supporting innovation systems that scale. His work has resulted in foundational reforms that have enhanced accountability, broadened access to technology, and strengthened the country’s tech capacity across key sectors.

    His influence also resonates beyond Nigeria’s borders. He has participated in continental forums where he continues to champion ethical innovation, data-sharing frameworks, and equitable tech transformation across Africa.

    As the country advances toward a technologically empowered economy, Kolade Makinde’s recognition as Outstanding Technology Award recipient stands as a powerful affirmation of his enduring impact. His work is a clear example of how strategic innovation anchored in purpose and led with vision can elevate national development.

    This honour places Makinde among a distinguished class of leaders redefining Africa’s tech narrative, individuals not only innovating but transforming the structures through which nations evolve.

  • Gotocourse launches GMIND AI 2.0 to make AI more accessible, inclusive

    Gotocourse launches GMIND AI 2.0 to make AI more accessible, inclusive

    Gotocourse, a leading digital learning platform, has unveiled GMIND AI 2.0, a cutting-edge AI-enabled solution designed to make Artificial Intelligence more accessible, inclusive, and user-friendly for everyone. 

    This innovative tool supports educators, writers, and creatives in crafting engaging and effective learning experiences.

    Founder and CEO of Gotocourse, Dr. Success Ojo, announced the launch at the grand opening of GMIND AI 2.0, held at Gotocourse Digital Literacy in Ibadan, themed “GMIND 2.0: Revolutionizing AI Accessibility.”

    Ojo emphasised that GMIND AI 2.0 aims to bridge the AI divide and empower everyone to harness the power of AI. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, intuitive, and accessible to all.

    Ojo highlighted that GMIND is not just a tool but a virtual assistant that helps teachers with curriculum and content generation, saving time and boosting productivity. 

    GMIND AI 2.0 features an enhanced user interface, expanded AI capabilities, improved digital literacy resources, and a hub of notable AI tools, with a focus on inclusivity and equal access.

    “Through user interactions and feedback, Gotocourse identified the need to enhance the platform’s features and capabilities, leading to the development of GMIND AI 2.0. The outreach team has trained over 30,000 individuals on AI and responsible use, with a goal to train 100,000 by the end of 2024”, she said.

    The founder and CEO of Cherithpoint Education and Youth Development Initiative, Mrs Olajumoke Akere praised Gotocourse’s achievement, highlighting GMIND AI 2.0’s potential to transform the way we create, innovate, and envision the future.

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    Co-Founder of Gotocourse, Dr. Oluseye Ojo, identified factors that might leave people behind in the age of AI, including lack of digital literacy and insufficient education.

    He emphasised the need for inclusive AI design, digital literacy programs, and responsible AI development to address these challenges.

    “GMIND AI 2.0 is built on these strategies, aiming to resolve the AI divide in Nigeria”. he said.

    Ojo appealed to the government to invest in infrastructure enabling access to the internet and computers, especially in hard-to-reach communities across Nigeria.

    “The launch of GMIND AI 2.0 marks a significant milestone in making AI more accessible and inclusive, empowering educators, writers, and creatives to create engaging and effective learning experiences”, he said.

  • Nigerian start-ups lead AI innovation race at expo launch

    Nigerian start-ups lead AI innovation race at expo launch

    Nigerian start-ups are leading an epic AI innovation race with innovative digital solutions solving cross-continental challenges, as the very best from Africa’s largest economy take centre stage at the rising Silicon Valley’s largest tech and start-up event in Morocco next month.

    From AI-powered diabetic care to SaaS (Software as a Service) platforms boosting agriculture profitability, Nigerian tech is shaping the future of Africa’s burgeoning digital economy, enticing global investors with tantalising venture opportunities at the AI Everything Expo by GITEX AFRICA 2024, the continent’s largest tech and start-up event, from 29-31 May in Marrakech.

    Under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI of the Kingdom of Morocco, GITEX AFRICA is held under the authority of the Moroccan Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, supported by the Ministry of Health & Social Protection, and hosted by the Digital Development Agency. The 2nd blockbuster edition, organised by KAOUN International, follows its pioneering debut in 2023.

    More than 30 high-level Nigerian-based speakers are set to partake in the power-packed GITEX AFRICA conference programme, fast-forwarding cross-border collaboration and investment opportunities. Headline government dignitaries participating include Tunji Alausa, the Honourable Minister of State, Health and Social Welfare for the Federal Republic of Nigeria; Akin Abayomi, Honourable Commissioner for the Lagos State Ministry of Health; and Dauda Lawal, Honourable Governor of Zamfara State.

    Other headliners include Aminu Maida, CEO of Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC); Prasanna Burri, Group CISO of Dangote Group; Yewande Adewusi, COO of Altheia Capital, and Yau I. Garba, National Director of the National Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.

    FundusAI, Africa’s first AI-powered diabetic care ecosystem, is an example of Nigerian-borne innovation allowing doctors to detect Diabetic Retinopathy early and will be one of more than 60 of the most outstanding Nigerian start-ups among hundreds of global start-ups at GITEX AFRICA 2024.

    “Our product stands out as Africa’s first AI-powered ecosystem for diabetic care,” said FundusAI’s CEO and Founder Abulmalik Adeyemo, who wants to diagnose more than five million patients annually by 2027, while expanding FundusAI’s scope to address additional eye health issues.

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    “FundusAI offers automated diagnosis, appointment scheduling, treatment referrals, and community support. Additionally, our gamified data collection ensures personalised healthcare insights.”

    Farmatrix is another Nigerian AI game changer at AI Everything Expo by GITEX AFRICA 2024, a SaaS platform that connects farmers with agro-commodity aggregators and buyers in real-time using advanced AI algorithms, greatly reducing post-harvest loss and boosting profits.

    “More than 60 percent of smallholder farmers in Nigeria lose nearly half of their post-harvest yield because they can’t readily access buyers for their products,” said Nyafamu Manzo, Founder of Farmatrix.

    “Farmatrix democratises purchase orders, guaranteeing end-to-end market, secure storage facilities, and trusted logistics services for every farmer and agro-commodity aggregator in our network.”

    While Africa is still in the early stages of AI adoption, there’s a growing interest in the transformational technology across the continent, as governments balance the fine act of AI innovation and regulation, while fast-tracking AI talent development plans.

    Tomiwa Aladekomo, CEO of Big Cabal Media, the Nigerian-based Pan-African media group that tells the great African start-up story to the world, said Nigeria sets an example of elevating tech talent to accelerate productivity and attract investment across the continent.

    “In Nigeria, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy is training three million tech talents over the next four years, and that’s the kind of thing we want to see across the continent,” said Aladekomo, a speaker at the Future of Finance Summit, one of more than ten powerful conference programmes at GITEX AFRICA 2024.

    “Africa needs to build AI products, and we need to be thinking about regulation, not just from a safety perspective, but about regulation that encourages productivity, allowing us to be producers (of AI) rather than just consumers – and that’s going to require a ton of tech talent.”