The Nation Newspaper

Category: Technology

  • Six ways Google Gemini can power your music journey

    Six ways Google Gemini can power your music journey

    The pulse of African music resonates worldwide. Fueled by the success of top sensations like Burna Boy, Davido, Tyla, and Wizkid, a new generation of creatives is bursting onto the scene.

    But navigating the music industry’s complexities can feel daunting – especially without the right know-how and tools.

    That’s where Gemini, Google’s collaborative AI-powered tool, steps in as your ultimate guide.

    Here are six ways Gemini can be an ally on your journey:

    Building Your Tribe:  In vibrant music communities like the ones in Lagos, Johannesburg and Nairobi, it’s not just about who you know, but how you connect. Gemini helps you go beyond networking basics.  Instead of just attending events, let’s get strategic. Ask, “How do I initiate meaningful conversations with music producers online?” or “Help me write an application essay for an artist mentorship program.”

    Igniting Your Creative Spark:  Facing a Creative Block? Gemini can reignite your inspiration.  “Suggest lyrical rhymes for a song with an empowering theme.”  Need to broaden your sonic palette?  “I’m feeling musically adventurous! Suggest some unusual traditional African instruments I could play around with” Gemini is your brainstorming partner, ready to push your artistic boundaries.

    The Power of Your Story:  Your brand is more than a logo. It’s how you connect with your audience.  Gemini can help you find your voice: “Help me craft an artist bio that captures my passion for social change through music.”  Need to up your social media game? “Show me how other African artists effectively use TikTok.”

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    Decoding the Music Business: The music industry can feel like a maze – contracts, copyright laws, and navigating key players often require insider knowledge. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, ask Gemini to break it down. Ask straightforward questions like, “If a song plays in a movie. Does the singer get paid for that? Explain like I’m 5?” and let Gemini explain it in a way that you’ll understand. Use the Google “G” button to double-check if you need extra help.

    Owning Your Look: In the world of music, your style speaks volumes. Gemini helps you explore: “How can I blend traditional Nigerian textiles with contemporary fashion trends?”  Need inspiration? “Burna boy and Sho Majodzi are famed for their unique fashion sense. Help me find a bold, colourful outfit inspired by their style. I am 6ft tall and love hats.”  Let Gemini be your image consultant.

    Beyond the Music Videos:  In the digital age, visuals amplify your message. Gemini can spark your video concepts.  “Brainstorm music video ideas that celebrate the everyday beauty of Lagos.”  Need help with the nuts and bolts?  “What are the basic elements of a music video treatment?”

  • Abia council partners GetBundi EdTech to equip youths with digital skills

    Abia council partners GetBundi EdTech to equip youths with digital skills

    Umuahia North Local Government Area in Abia State has entered a partnership with GetBundi Education Technology to educate as many as 1,000 Umuahia North youths with various digital skill sets.  

    The programme, which is open to young men and women from Umuahia North LGA aged 18-35, will cover digital skill courses that will make them job-ready in the areas of Web Development, Coding, Video Editing, Cybersecurity, and Data Analytics, etc.

    As industries increasingly embrace digitization, the demand for individuals proficient in digital skills has continued to surge as they play a crucial role in shaping labour markets and contributing to the growth of economies. This programme is designed to enhance the competitiveness of Umuahia North youths and to empower them to contribute to technological advancements and economic growth of Abia State.

    Speaking on the importance of digital skills, the Mayor of Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, Hon High Chief Victor Ikeji, said, “Acquiring digital skills is crucial for our youths today as it opens opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, global connectivity and competitiveness in an increasingly digital world. We want our youths to be successful, especially in the digital skill landscape, so that they can contribute meaningful to the development of Abia State.”

    He expressed gratitude to God “who it pleased at this time of Abia’s history to give us a visionary Governor like His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti OFR, a governor with a clear-cut vision on how to fix Abia State”. 

    “His directive to us as his messengers is clear: do everything you can to improve the lives of our people, create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, and make our youths employable,” Hon Ikeji said.

    “My Governor’s commitment to promoting STEM education, science, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and job opportunities in the state by equipping Abia youths with the knowledge, expertise, and practical skills in various core and advanced digital skills is one key area we at Umuahia North Local Government Area have keyed in.

    “As a local government, we will not stop in equipping our youths with the right digital skill sets until we start exporting home-grown digital talents from Abia State. My team and I look forward to witnessing the transformative impact this partnership with GetBundi Education Technology, an institution of higher learning approved by the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Board for Technical Education will have on the lives of participants, entrepreneurship, and the innovation ecosystem in the state,” he said.

    Founder of GetBundi, Mr Osita Oparaugo stated that the platform is designed to address the shortage of qualified professionals in digital technologies and other relevant areas that can impede businesses’ ability to harness the full potential of the digital landscape across Africa.

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    “Acquiring digital skills is crucial for African youths in today’s world as it enhances employability, fosters innovation, and promotes economic development,” Oparaugo said.

    He emphasised that without digital skill sets, Nigerian youths, Abia State youths inclusive, would be less competitive in the global market, whereas their large number, they should dominate the digital workspace.

    The GetBundi founder quoted some research works, saying over the next 10 years, 9 out of 10 jobs would require some form of digital skills.

    “Let’s empower our youths with digital skills to prepare them to be globally competitive,” he said.

  • FG moves to strengthen digital systems, appoints top experts for new framework

    FG moves to strengthen digital systems, appoints top experts for new framework

    The Federal Government has taken fresh steps to secure Nigeria’s digital landscape and protect critical sectors by bringing on board top experts to develop a National DevOps, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence Framework.

    The move,  initially reported by Punch newspaper, revealed the appointment of Ms. Ogunboyo Awolesi Adetoun as one of the lead advisors on the project. Ms. Ogunboyo, who is well respected for her work in cloud security, DevOps and AI across West Africa, is expected to add significant depth to the technical team.

    She joins other seasoned professionals including award-winning cybersecurity strategist, Engr. Mamadou D. Bah, and Dr. Henrietta K. Mensah, known internationally for her work in information architecture. Together, they will support the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy in shaping a strong and secure digital environment for Nigeria.

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    Director of Digital Transformation and Cybersecurity at the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Musa, said the new framework would focus on building a robust system that could stand up to the fast-evolving nature of cyber threats. According to him, “This is more than just protecting our infrastructure today. It’s about putting Nigeria ahead, so we are seen as leaders in cybersecurity and tech innovation.”

    The framework will cover areas like e-governance, healthcare, education, and finance, aiming to drive secure digital adoption and create more efficient systems. It is also expected to open doors for capacity building, with a focus on training young Nigerians in critical IT areas.

    With this new collaboration, the government hopes to boost confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy, attract more investment, and position the country as a strong player in Africa’s tech space.

  • Internet outage: Glo 1 up as other undersea cables suffer disruptions

    Internet outage: Glo 1 up as other undersea cables suffer disruptions

    Massive internet outages have been reported in Nigeria following damage to international undersea cables supplying the country with connectivity.

    Telecommunications companies and a number of banks which rely on the affected cables for internet services have been affected by the outage.

    According to reports, the damage affected major undersea cables near Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire and has led to internet downtime across West and South African countries.

    The undersea cables affected are the West Africa Cable System (WACS), the Africa Coast to Europe (ACE), MainOne, and SAT3. 

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    However, Glo 1, owned by Nigeria’s leading digital services company, Globacom, was not affected by the damage and has continued to operate normally. Data users, internet service providers and financial institutions which run on Glo 1 have continued to operate normally.

    Industry analysts believe the *sturdy* nature and resilience of Glo 1 International Submarine Cable is the reason why the damage did not affect the cable.

  • StepUp2Tech paves way for future developers with successful mentorship program

    StepUp2Tech paves way for future developers with successful mentorship program

    StepUp2Tech, an initiative dedicated to nurturing tech talent, has wrapped up an impactful four-week mentorship program aimed at equipping aspiring developers with the skills and guidance needed to thrive in the industry.

    The program, which ran from February 9th to March 7th, 2024 was spearheaded by Charles Ayere, a full-stack web developer and mentor, alongside a team of seasoned developers, industry experts, and career coaches. Participants engaged in an immersive learning experience designed to refine their coding abilities, problem-solving skills, and professional development.

    Throughout the program, mentees worked on real-world projects, collaborated in peer-driven learning environments, and received individualized support from mentors. Workshops covered essential industry topics, including software engineering principles, modern web development frameworks, career navigation, and portfolio enhancement.

    With a cohort of 50 dedicated mentees, the program fostered an environment of collaboration and innovation. By the end of the mentorship, participants had gained in-depth knowledge of full-stack web development, hands-on experience solving industry-relevant challenges, career coaching and insights from tech professionals, and exposure to networking opportunities and industry connections.

    For many, this was more than just a technical learning experience, it was an introduction to a community of like-minded professionals committed to growth and excellence.

    Following the program’s success, StepUp2Tech is expanding its initiatives to offer more structured mentorship opportunities, hackathons, and collaborative open-source projects. By continuously fostering talent and connecting aspiring developers with industry experts, StepUp2Tech remains committed to shaping the future of technology.

  • Data Analytics: Key to Transforming Nigerian Institutions and Businesses – Renowned Analyst Shares Insight”

    Data Analytics: Key to Transforming Nigerian Institutions and Businesses – Renowned Analyst Shares Insight”

    In today’s business environment where information drives innovation, Nigerian institutions and businesses are increasingly recognizing the transformative power of data analytics. Seun Ogunsanya, a seasoned business intelligence specialist with Providus Bank, emphasizes that data analytics is not just a tool but a strategic asset essential for growth and efficiency.

    “Data analytics enables organizations to make informed decisions, optimize operations, and anticipate market trends,” Ogunsanya explains. “In Nigeria, where resources can be limited, leveraging data effectively can be the difference between success and stagnation. The potential of data is often untapped, and its value lies in the actionable insights it provides.”

    “As Head of Enterprise Data Office at Providus Bank, I have personally employed data-driven strategies that led to over 25% increase in revenue and an up to 18% reduction in operational costs simply by implementing intuitive dashboards and real-time analytics, which led to enhanced decision-making processes and improved customer engagement”. He stated.

    “We transformed raw data into actionable insights, allowing executives to respond swiftly to market changes and customer needs,” he notes. “This agility is crucial in the fast-paced financial sector. Data is not just about numbers; it’s about understanding what those numbers mean for future business strategy.” Ogunsanya explained.

    At eTranzact, Ogunsanya spearheaded initiatives that reduced financial losses by 25% through advanced fraud detection mechanisms. Additionally, predictive modeling techniques were employed to forecast customer churn, resulting in a 10% improvement in customer retention rates.

    “Understanding customer behavior through data allowed us to tailor services and proactively address issues, fostering loyalty and trust,” he says. “Predictive analytics helped us not only react to challenges but anticipate them, giving us a strategic edge in a highly competitive market.”

    Despite these successes, Ogunsanya acknowledges challenges in adopting data analytics across Nigerian institutions. “Many organizations face hurdles such as inadequate infrastructure, limited skilled personnel, and resistance to change,” he observes. “However, the potential benefits far outweigh these obstacles. We need to break the mindset that data analytics is a luxury – it’s a necessity in today’s business world.”

    Studies indicate that while 56% of Nigerian firms still rely on instinct over analytics, there is a growing awareness of the need for data-driven decision-making. Government initiatives and increased investment in technology are gradually fostering a more data-centric culture.’

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    “Change is often met with resistance, but once organizations see the tangible benefits of data analytics, it becomes clear that it’s not a trend, but the future,” Ogunsanya adds. “For Nigeria to compete on a global scale, businesses must embrace data as a core component of their strategy. The sooner they do, the greater the advantage they will have.”

    Looking forward, Ogunsanya advocates for a strategic approach to integrating data analytics into organizational frameworks. “Investing in training, infrastructure, and a culture that values data is essential,” he advises. “As Nigeria continues to embrace digital transformation, data analytics will be a cornerstone of sustainable development.”

    “In the future, the businesses that thrive will be those that use data not just to measure success, but to predict it,” Ogunsanya concludes. “The data revolution is already here, and Nigeria must harness it to secure a competitive and sustainable future.”

  • UK announces awards for African tech start-ups

    UK announces awards for African tech start-ups

    African start-ups specialised in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Connected & Automated Mobility (CAM) Technology, Cyber Security and Digital Trade Solutions can now apply for the Unicorn Kingdom Pathfinder Awards.

    Winners will receive a tailormade programme to help scale up and grow their business in the UK, including industry meetings, VIP events and expert business growth support, as well as expert support from DBT’s Global Entrepreneur Programme, which supports ambitious businesses to scale and grow from a UK global headquarters.

    They’ll also receive exposure and recognition through promotional activities run by DBT to accelerate their growth.

    The award, first announced by the UK’s Business Secretary at London Tech Week in June 2023, builds on the success of the UK’s Tech Rocketship Awards and Global Entrepreneur Programme.

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    It will be the UK’s Department for Business and Trade’s largest global award for tech start-up companies ever.

    UK’s Investment Minister, Dominic Johnson said: “These awards are a fantastic opportunity for tech scale-up companies to join the UK’s thriving $1 trillion tech sector. The awards are part of our commitment to helping more businesses scale up and benefit from our highly skilled workforce and supportive regulatory system. The UK already has more unicorns than France and Germany combined, and our country continues to be a place where tech businesses from across the world come to thrive.”

    The Trade Commissioner for Africa, John Humphrey said: “The African start-up landscape is now front and centre as the world focuses on African know-how and innovation. From bustling tech hubs across the continent, young businesses are changing the game by providing innovative solutions to African and global problems, while creating jobs and empowering their communities in the process.

    “The launch of the Unicorn Kingdom: Pathfinder Awards across Africa, which offers tech start-ups from across this vibrant continent the opportunity to showcase their innovation and potential on a global scale, while opening up fascinating opportunities for the UK’s already vibrant tech ecosystem, is an exciting journey of growth and success.”

    Companies can only apply for one category, with one regional winner per category and one overarching category winner. Submissions will be shortlisted, followed by three rounds of pitching, with regional finals, and semi-finals with the live finals taking place in the UK in the autumn.

    Applications opened on March 1 and it will close on April 30. Applicants can visit great.gov.uk/ukpa for more information.

  • National spokespersons’ awards 2024 finalists emerge

    National spokespersons’ awards 2024 finalists emerge

    Finalists have emerged for the forthcoming National Spokespersons’ Awards (NSAwards) 2024 after the first round of the screening by the jury made up of communication scholars, PR practitioners, and media personalities.

    The NSAwards is organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), publishers of PRNigeria, Economic Confidential and Spokespersons Digest, to acknowledge outstanding contributions of communication professionals and spokespersons.

    Awards Committee Chairman and former NIPR Chairman, Lagos Chapter, Mr Segun Mcmedal said 62 finalists were shortlisted from 224 entries for 21 categories, including Spokesperson of the Year Award.

    Others are Outstanding Spokespersons in Financial Services, Technology, Corporate Communication, Political Communication, Multinational, International Relations, Civil Society, Legislature and Executive Arms.

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    The rest include professional excellence in Crisis Management, Military, Security Service, Public Sector (Federal and State levels), Regulatory Compliance, Corporate Governance, Environmental Sustainability, and Young Spokesperson of the Year.

    The panel assessed 224 nominees and picked the finalists based on objectivity, creativity, and productive communication campaigns. Some entries demonstrated originality and solutions to contemporary challenges, while others provided evidence of professionalism and campaign effectiveness.

    The jury that will select the 21 winners is chaired by Prof Mabel Evwierhoma, with Mr Abdulrahman Abdulraheem as Secretary. Members are Prof Anthony Igyuve, Prof Saudat Abdulbaqi, Dr Arthur Martins-Aginam, Mallam Kabir Abdulsalam, and Mr Ishola Ayodele.

    The awards will be presented during the National Spokespersons’ Summit in Abuja from March 25 to 28 with the theme “Change Narrative, Change Society”. Initiated by Spokespersons Digest in 2021, the 2024 ceremony will be the fourth.

  • Appt Jobs bridging information gap in job market with WhatsApp chatbot

    Appt Jobs bridging information gap in job market with WhatsApp chatbot

    Appt Jobs, a pioneering HRTech company, has unveiled an innovative chatbot service aimed at revolutionising the job-seeking experience. With a mission to empower job seekers, Appt Jobs introduces a personalised career companion accessible through WhatsApp.

    Utilising the widespread popularity of WhatsApp, Appt Jobs offers a seamless platform for users to connect with a personal job hunter tailored to their job preferences, skills, and location. This personalized approach ensures that users receive relevant job alerts and career guidance directly through their smartphones.

    Olakunle Adebayo, the founder of Appt Jobs, emphasised the company’s commitment to empowering individuals throughout their career journey. “By leveraging the power of AI and direct messaging, we aim to bridge the information gap in the job market, providing users with personalized support and guidance to succeed,” he stated.

    Acknowledging the challenges faced by job seekers in today’s competitive market, Olakunle highlighted the importance of addressing information asymmetry and uncertainty surrounding the job search process. “Our chatbot aims to bridge this gap by providing users with personalized job opportunities and ongoing support,” he explained.

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    He further elaborated on the significance of information asymmetry in the labor market, emphasizing its impact on unemployment rates, job dissatisfaction, and unfair treatment of employees.

    Appt Jobs’ chatbot represents a significant step towards addressing these challenges. Through personalized recommendations and ongoing support, the platform aims to equip users with relevant job-hunting tips, interview preparations, and strategies to secure meaningful career opportunities.

    Explaining how to utilize the chatbot, Olakunle encouraged users to save the phone number +2348092926438 and initiate a conversation on WhatsApp to get started. He announced that Appt Jobs is available for a free trial period, allowing users to experience its benefits firsthand.

    Olakunle mentioned upcoming features aimed at enhancing the user experience, including functionalities to verify interview authenticity, review employment letters, and assist with career dilemmas. These advancements underscore Appt Jobs’ dedication to empowering individuals throughout their entire career journey.

  • Software developers, programmers seek central information database

    Software developers, programmers seek central information database

    Software developers and programmers have urged the government to create a central information database management to harmonise the information and data of all Nigerians as against the case where different government agencies and bodies create separate and independent database almost at everytime the need arises.

    They reasoned that a centralised information database will help greatly in tackling insecurity and even help government in proper planning for the citizens.

    The professionals and experts spoke at the Software Developer Summit at the House of Chiefs, Oyo State House of Assembly Complex, Oyo State Government Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan at the weekend. 

    The event organised by the Aduke Benson Youth Empowerment Foundation had in attendance over 300 programmers and software developers mostly youths from various tertiary institutions in the country.

    Speaking, Chief Executive Officer, Netmetrix technology, Prince Ademola Benson called on the government to come up with policy that will allow the sector unleash its potentials to developing the nation.

    He noted that programmers and software developers can greatly help profer solutions to the myriads of challenges facing the country particularly in the areas of insecurity, food production, data and information management, health among others sectors in the country.

    Benson, who is the Chairman, Aduke Benson Foundation, said government has only been paying lip service to the use of technology in runing governance despite its huge potentials.

    He said the summit is to create an enabling environment for the programmers and software developers to showcase the stuff of their professional especially for national development.

    He said: “For example when we are talking about insecurity, what we just need is to have a proper database management solution. Over the last few years, we have been battling with NIN. How many programmers are involved? Is NIN an indigenous software? Look at the BVN that we have been doing, how far have they moved? How many local programmers are involved or did they just get international programmers. Some people just used the software to enrich their pockets.

    “Look at our international passport? Why re-issuing? And why capturing again and again? That means we don’t have a strong database network. If you look at the likes of US, UK, Canada, they use tech systems, that is programmers, with a good database in place.

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    “In the areas of security, I was with a former Inspector General of Police years back and I told him we have a solution to insecurity, telling him that when suspects are arrested, they should capture their bio-data including finger prints, facial capturing and that we should have a central database network, the IGP at the the time told me Nigeria was not ripe for it. Many years later, is it that we are still not ripe for it? It is because most of our leaders are not IT inclined.

    “For us to move forward as a nation , we need to give high recognition for programmers and softwaredevelopers. They can have regular summit like this, call programmers and assign tasks to them amd let’s see how they will provide solution.”

    A Digital Consultant, Yemi Pidan identified access to electricity, data and poor internet service, poor online payment platforms, unenabling environment as some of the major challenges faced by software developers and programmers in the country.

    He said “in countries where programmers create solutions, this is what happens, the programmer is not hungry. He is not worried or bothered with what to eat, so he is calm and can come up with solutions even if it will take him a year, he is on it until he creates it. But, in this part of the world where most times people need to struggle for survival, it distracts programmers from doing what they should be doing. 

    “As programmers, we are interested in creating a robust database for Nigeria. Database that containers the details of every single person that is on Nigerian soil so that if anything happens anywhere, we can trace them, we can trace everything about them and that will help us address security challenges because people just go out there, commit crimes and go scotfree.

    “We have solutions we are building at the moment which is in the interest of Nigeria, in the interest of the government and we will be very happy if the government can pay attention to what we do and listen to us.”

    Speaking on the essence of the programme, Secretary, Aduke Benson Foundation, Mrs Racheal Benson said the summit was organsied to create a hub, an ecosystem where programmers and software developers can come and flourish, where they can access the tools they need to build solutions that Nigeria need to move forward.

    She added that the NGO is concerned about awakening the youths to their full potentials and how to give them a voice instead of using the internet for fraud among other social vices.