The Nation Newspaper

Category: Technology

  • How African businesses can harness Google AI to simplify search advertising

    How African businesses can harness Google AI to simplify search advertising

    Following its initial announcement in January, businesses across Africa can now use Google’s Gemini AI-powered chat-like tool for Search Ads.

    This intuitive tool is now fully operational and designed to help businesses in Africa and across the world boost their online visibility.

    In regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, where internet penetration is rapidly increasing, the ability to effectively reach customers through online advertising is becoming increasingly crucial for business growth.

    Google’s conversational experience takes the complexity out of ad creation, empowering businesses of any size to easily craft campaigns that resonate with local audiences.

    A statement by Google reads: “Creating effective ads can be time-consuming, especially for small businesses,” explains Shashi Thakur, VP & GM of Search Ads & Ads on Google Experiences.

    “Our new conversational experience helps businesses of all sizes tap into the power of Google AI to create successful Search campaigns with remarkable ease.”

    Here’s how the conversational experience works:

    Easy to Get Started: Simply provide a website address, and Google AI will automatically analyse the content.

    Tailored Suggestions: The AI generates relevant keywords, ad headlines, and descriptions, inspired by a business and its target region.

    Read Also: Google rebrands AI chatbot, Bard, to Gemini

    Visual Inspiration: Need ad images? Google AI pulls visuals from a website or creates new ones.

    You’re Still in Control: Advertisers review and approve all AI-generated elements, ensuring ads reflect their brand.

    The introduction of this conversational experience has led to tangible benefits for businesses utilising the platform, with businesses using the conversational experience in Google Ads are 42% more likely to publish Search campaigns with ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’ Ad Strength. This strong ad quality has been shown to directly increase conversions.

    This development is part of Google’s broader initiative to empower small businesses in Africa and globally, by facilitating the creation of impactful Search ads. By automatically generating headlines and descriptions based on existing website content, Google’s AI enables ads to dynamically respond to relevant searches. This adaptive approach ensures that small businesses can effectively capture the attention of potential customers, enhancing their visibility in search results.

    The conversational AI experience for Google Search Ads is now available globally for English-speaking advertisers, with plans to extend support to additional languages in the near future.

  • Ocean governance: Revamp Rave Network seeks local engagement in climate change advocacy

    Ocean governance: Revamp Rave Network seeks local engagement in climate change advocacy

    A climate change-based environmental conservation organisation, Revamp Rave Network (RRN), has called on government bodies in Africa to incorporate community insights into climate change policy-making processes across the continent.

    Abimbola Abikoye, who is the founder and convener of Coastal Rural Community Conference on Climate Change, made the call during her opening remarks at the one-day Conference held at Immaculate Hall, Maryland, Lagos, at the weekend.

    While speaking at the conference themed: “Strengthening the Capacity of Coastal Communities in Climate Adaptation and Mitigation for more Ocean Governance,” the RRN founder emphasized on the importance of leveraging local knowledge and perspectives in crafting effective climate change mitigation strategies.

    She noted that community-driven approaches are essential for creating sustainable policies that resonate with the realities faced by residents in coastal regions.

    The overarching aim of the conference, according to Abimbola, was to unite communities in accelerating progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa.

    She stressed that the resolutions formulated during the conference which brought together over 500 coastal rural women, men and persons with disabilities from across five largest fishing communities in Lagos, would be documented and presented to government representatives at all levels, with the intent of fostering comprehensive and sustainable policy development.

    Continuing, she further stated that the Conference was designed with the notion for building robust collaborative frameworks and forging partnerships aimed at catalyzing positive transformations within rural communities. “By fostering dialogue and cooperation, the conference sought to lay the groundwork for initiatives that enhance the livelihoods of individuals residing in coastal areas,” she added.

    Speakers at the event in their respective speeches encouraged attendees to take climate change seriously and adopt the best practices in their fishing activities.

    The conference, which had presentations from Mr Bankole Michael, the Director Department of Climate Change, Lagos State Ministry of Environment; and Mr Wellington O. Omoragbon, Director Department of Fisheries, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security called for heightened awareness and education on climate issues, urging governments, individuals, and NGOs to intensify their efforts in disseminating climate change literacy at the grassroots level.

    The speakers also explored the importance of strengthening the capacity of communities for climate adaptation and mitigation for more ocean governance.

    Read Also: How to revamp Nigeria’s tourism sector, by experts

    Highlights of the event include dance performances, musical interludes, and group photo sessions, symbolising the spirit of unity and shared purpose.

    This conference was proudly supported by Ocean Justice Africa; Department of Fisheries, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security; Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources; UN Ocean Deacde- Early Career Ocean Professional Programme; MushinToTheWorld Foundation and Lekan Bakare Foundation.

    For more information or partnerships, please reach Revamp Rave Network at partnerships@revamprave.org

  • Strong systems key to sustaining public institutions – Expert

    Strong systems key to sustaining public institutions – Expert

     A Senior Business Analyst and Acting Project Manager at eHealth Saskatchewan, Onyinyechi Gift Henry-Machame, has emphasised that the success of public institutions relies less on visible innovation and more on the strength of the systems operating behind the scenes.

    “Sustainable systems are not accidental. They are deliberately designed around people, processes, data and long-term accountability,” she said.

    Henry-Machame made the remarks while discussing her work on health emergency intelligence platforms, which support disease surveillance, outbreak detection, and coordinated response.

    She noted that many technology failures in the public sector stem from weak governance, fragmented data strategies, and poor stakeholder alignment rather than technical limitations.

    “Technology should not create more noise. Its purpose is to reduce uncertainty and enable leaders to act quickly and confidently, especially during emergencies,” she added.

    With more than 13 years of experience spanning public health, banking, and enterprise technology, Henry-Machame has led projects focused on enterprise transformation and value delivery. Records from programmes under her oversight show improved user adoption, earlier identification of risks, and shorter implementation timelines compared with previous initiatives.

    Read Also: Adeyanju commends Tinubu over Oyedepo’s appointment as director of public prosecutions

    Her work also includes infrastructure and cybersecurity upgrades aimed at enhancing system reliability, strengthening data centre resilience, and reducing costs through phased decommissioning of legacy systems.

    Before entering the public health sector, Henry-Machame held senior roles in financial services, including positions at Canadian Western Bank and Sterling Bank, where she focused on digital transformation and regulatory compliance.

    Beyond her primary roles, she has contributed to policy advisory activities, professional mentoring, and financial literacy programmes. She holds an Executive MBA, a master’s degree in finance, and multiple professional certifications in business analysis, project management, and agile leadership.

    As digital systems become increasingly central to governance and service delivery, Henry-Machame stressed that the true measure of progress lies in whether institutions can depend on their systems to perform consistently, particularly under pressure.

  • An Overview on How Americans Spend Money

    An Overview on How Americans Spend Money

    Americans spend their money on many things, and consumption of final goods and services is an example.

    Studying the consumer spending pattern reveals what percentage of household and individual funds are spent in other areas, including entertainment.

    We have observed that a good percentage of Americans spent their money on recreational and hobby activities.

    Overview of American Consumer Spending

    In 2022, housing accounted for the larger part of the $72,967 average annual consumer spending, at $24,298, with transportation taking the second spot at $12,295.

    Food is third, at $9,343 pert year, and, finally, records show the average American spends only $1335 on education.

    On the Entertainment side of the consumer spending pattern, Americans spent $3,458 on various recreational activities, including gambling. All in all, around $60.46 billion was spent on casinos in 2022.

    The Casino Industry in the US

    Gambling has been on the rise ever since it became legal in more states.

    While sportsbooks are also available quite broadly, the casinos have been a major player in the gambling industry, and the gambling industry has grown significantly over the years.

    Meanwhile, it has the highest number of land-based casinos, with more than 1000 available.

    Furthermore, the online casino sector is not left out as the advancement in technology, especially the emergence of mobile gambling, has attracted many American players to the Enjoyment of casino entertainment online.

    The American casino industry leads globally and recorded over 40% growth from 2021, with over $43 billion generated.

    Casino Spending Habits in the US

    The current casino spending of the American population shows that gambling is accepted amongst the population, although it can be for fun or for making more money.

    A quick look at the $38.96 and $60.46 spent on gambling in 2016 and 2022, respectively, shows immense growth.

    Interestingly, the industry maintained an upward trend through the years, except for 2020, the COVID year, where it dropped just below $30 billion.

    Our team believes that the amount of disposable income, age, region, peer pressure, and technological advancements influence gambling.

    They also play vital roles in increasing casino spending over the years.

    Responsible Gambling Measures

    Regardless of the reasons they are playing for, American punters need to maintain responsible

    gambling practices.

    They encourage casinos to make various measures available for bettors, including:

    1. Imposing deposit limits

    2. Encouraging self-exclusion

    3. Displaying responsible gambling links and materials to help problem gamblers

    4. Restriction of some financial instruments

    5. Betting limits

    6. Restricting gambling advertisements.

    Read Also: ‘How fentanyl is killing more young Americans’

    Future Trends and Developments

    The future trends of Americans’ spending habits will keep increasing, provided the economy keeps booming. Also, technological advancement will result in the creation of the best casino slots and other games that will attract more players and increase spending.

    The convenience, privacy, and safety that mobile and internet gambling provide are vital to the future spending habits of Americans.

    Conclusion

    Consumer spending keeps you informed about what an average American citizen spends on, including casinos.

    The rise in technological advancement and the amount of disposable income contributed to the growth of casino spending in the nation.

    However, we recommend that players gamble responsibly.

  • World Radio Day: Diaspora-based expert to launch International Media Innovation for immigrant workers

    World Radio Day: Diaspora-based expert to launch International Media Innovation for immigrant workers

    In commemoration of UNESCO‘s World Radio Day, an innovative digital media initiative is set to launch, heralding a new era for radio broadcasting in the diaspora.

    Led by a diaspora-based mental health expert and former media broadcaster, the project aims to provide vital psycho-social support for migrant workers across the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Americas, Asia, and Europe.

    The initiative, currently operating as a 24/7 international online radio, stems from the founder’s personal journey as a mental health nurse clinician who faced significant challenges upon immigrating to the United Kingdom.

    Experiencing racial prejudice, discrimination, and subsequent mental health struggles, the founder was inspired to create a platform offering support to immigrants navigating psycho-social challenges associated with relocation.

    The project, known as JapaCity, is more than just an online media app; it is a transformative force leveraging digital technology and international migration to support the psycho-emotional well-being of immigrants. It includes partnerships with African radio stations, utilizing relay station technology to broadcast culturally inclined programming to the diaspora.

    Read Also: World Radio Day: Obaseki lauds inventors

    The key features of the JapaCity initiative encompass diverse content streams sourced from partnered African radio stations, fostering a rich tapestry of culturally inclined programming. An innovative livestream program named SAFE SPACE takes center stage, delivering essential psychological and emotional support for immigrants.

    Moreover, the platform facilitates anonymous “live-call-in” and ‘live-chat’ options, creating a direct connection for immigrants seeking assistance with expert counsellors. These features collectively establish JapaCity as a comprehensive and empathetic digital solution catering to the psycho-social needs of the immigrant community.

    The founder’s experience underscores the project’s significance. Facing racial discrimination, health challenges, and traumatic incidents on the job, the founder aims to bridge the gap in mental health support for immigrants, drawing from personal trials to create impactful change.

    JapaCity aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, recognizing international migration as a force for positive change when harnessed effectively. The project seeks to provide targeted personalized support for immigrant healthcare workers, fostering resilience and mental well-being.

    In a world grappling with a global workforce crisis and increased challenges for migrants, JapaCity emerges as a beacon of support. The initiative emphasizes the positive impact of international migration when managed safely and orderly, bringing benefits to both migrants and their countries of origin.

  • FG flags off online tech marketplace

    FG flags off online tech marketplace

    The federal government launched TechAdvantage Nigeria, an online ecosystem facilitating connections between apprentices and business owners while aspiring entrepreneurs gain insights from seasoned experts.

    The platform also hosts the TechAdvantage academy, offering training and empowerment opportunities.

    Customers can access skilled individuals through the jobs platform, while traders and startups can broaden their reach via the online marketplace.

    Tech enthusiasts can convene to exchange knowledge, collaborate, and fortify the tech ecosystem.

    Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Chief Uche Nnaji, announced the initiative during the launch event.

    He also said: “The computer village model, long recognized as a hub of ingenuity and entrepreneurship, inspires this project. We have translated the best of this model, the spirit of collaboration, the drive to succeed, and the constant adaptation to technology into an online ecosystem accessible to all. The idea behind TechAdvantage Nigeria is to technologically empower individuals and promote a culture of collaboration that transcends tribe, religion, and politics.

    “TechAdvantage Nigeria offers the space for interested Nigerians to take charge of their growth and empowerment. I therefore, urge all Nigerians, particularly our young ones, young professionals, and artisans, to explore the TechAdvantage online academy and equip themselves with the skills of tomorrow, seek opportunities through the TechAdvantage jobs platform, and build their careers in the tech sector, showcase their expertise and connect with potential customers in the TechAdvantage online marketplace, and join the online community and become part of a vibrant network of tech enthusiasts.”

    Read Also: FG rolls out plans to tackle food inflation

    Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and co-founder Sapphital, Amu Ogbeide, “So imagine I’m in a different location, and my phone stops working or my laptop crashes. I can go on the platform, and identify a person nearby who can just come and fix it. So we’re looking to scale across the country. Train people, empower them.”

    He said one can sit at home and look for someone to mentor him, knowing how difficult it can be sometimes when the person is not there physically.

    He said you can go on the platform watch the video, and follow him and I see everything he posts every day. So mentorship these days and apprenticeship has gone digital by following people and watching what they do, you can learn from them along the way in the tech ecosystem.

  • Tech firm unveils Voice Assistant Initiative

    Tech firm unveils Voice Assistant Initiative

    Mainlogix Technology, a firm has unveiled “Smart”, an innovative, personalised intelligence voice assistant poised to transform the way individuals engage with their homes.

    A statement by the founder, Josiah Akinloye noted that it offers unprecedented customization options, allowing users to address the assistant with endearing pet names like “Joy Home.”

    He said activation is effortless, with users able to summon it using personalised wake words such as “Hey Joy” or “Ok Sam,” ensuring seamless and intuitive communication with their smart home ecosystem, including activities like music playback and more.

    He noted that the standout feature of the innovation lies in its seamless integration with Mainlogix’s Intelligent Automation system.

    He said: “This groundbreaking technology transcends traditional home security measures by simulating the presence of homeowners even in their absence. In the event of a potential intrusion, Smart springs into action, activating a series of defensive measures such as controlling the TV, adjusting window curtains, and modulating lights. Additionally, it promptly dispatches notifications to both the user and security authorities, ensuring swift response and unparalleled peace of mind.

    “Complementing “Smart” is Mainlogix Technology’s latest innovation, an intelligent robot tailored explicitly for home environments. This adaptable assistant lends invaluable support with a wide array of day-to-day activities, spanning household chores to entertainment and beyond. With its advanced capabilities and user-friendly interface, the Mainlogix robot promises to elevate and streamline the residential living experience for homeowners.

    Read Also: Wike increases Special Assistants to 200,000

     “At Mainlogix, we’re dedicated to pushing technological boundaries to craft solutions that enhance and safeguard the lives of our customers. With Smart and our intelligent automation system, we are reshaping the landscape of smart homes, empowering users with unprecedented control and peace of mind.”

    The firm with its headquarters in Ontario, Canada, and operations extending to Lagos, Nigeria, continues to lead the charge in smart home technology and it’s committed to innovation.

  • Tijani, NCC boss revamping communications sector – Centre

    Tijani, NCC boss revamping communications sector – Centre

    The Centre for International and Strategic Studies (CISS) has applauded the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani and CEO/EVC of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Aminu Maida for reforming the sector.

    The Centre made this known in its assessment report of the communications sector under President Bola Tinubu.

    In the report signed by Dr Thomas Uzah, the Centre hailed Tijani and Maida for keying into President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda with laudable initiatives and reforms. 

    The report praised the Minister for convincing President Tinubu to sign four Executive Orders including the suspension of the five percent Exercise Tax on telecommunication services.

    It also acknowledged the importance of the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN) in fostering collaboration for broadband development and adoption to position the country at the forefront of the global digital landscape.

    “The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is consolidating on these gains as part of his promised renewed hope,” the report said in part.

    “His appointment of an experienced young Nigerian in the person of Bosun Tijani as Minister of Communication and Digital Economy has yielded fruits with the reforms introduced by the ministry since his assumption of duty.

    “He got the President to sign an executive order to suspend multiple taxation that has stifled business in the sector. The administration has rolled out many initiatives that, if implemented diligently will turn things around in the communication sector.

    Read Also:  NFF mourns passing of coach Izilein, Kayode Tijani

    “Efforts are in place in human capacity development with the training of young men and women in ICT while also improving internet accessibility for Nigerians. The reforms introduced under the auspices of Dr Dr Bosun Tijani if sustained will solve many of the problems witnessed in the sector. “

    The Centre recommended that the NCC should revamp stakeholder engagement across the country.

    It also urged the Federal Government to address the cost of doing business and invest massively in infrastructure, especially the power sector.

  • Why Webcore Nigeria is thriving amid harsh business environment – Oyegwa

    Why Webcore Nigeria is thriving amid harsh business environment – Oyegwa

    CEO of Webcore Nigeria, Eloho Oyegwa, has explained why the company is making giant strides despite the harsh economic climate in the country.

    Wedcore Nigeria, which was founded in 2014, is renowned for the transformative potential of digital technology. The company has embraced a product-led approach, curating a range of digital products including Social Media Marketing, SEO, Internet Branding, Online Presence, and Digital Marketing packages, all accessible through its e-commerce website at Webcore Nigeria.

    Oyegwa’s vision is powered by enhancing businesses and individuals, by providing them with innovative solutions tailored to the digital age. Through continuous research and development, Webcore Nigeria has ensured that each product does not only meets, but exceeds industry standards, enabling my clients to thrive in the competitive online landscape.

    However, the economic outlook in Nigeria in recent time is posing a significant challenge to businesses across industries and scale. But in the heart of the struggles is glorified moments for Webcore Nigeria. In an interview, the visioner revealed how the company has been able to stay ahead of the game.

    “Surviving the challenges of the Nigerian business environment for digital businesses demands a strategic approach that prioritizes flexibility, innovation, and understanding of local dynamics. Firstly, cultivating adaptability is key; the market landscape can change rapidly, and digital businesses need to pivot swiftly in response to emerging trends and customer demands,” the CEO of Webcore Nigeria stated. 

    Continuing, the Webcore Nigeria boss said: “investing in robust cybersecurity measures is non-negotiable. Protecting sensitive customer data and business information is crucial for building trust and credibility. Thirdly, fostering strong partnerships with reliable local payment gateways and delivery services is essential. Seamless payment options and reliable logistics ensure a positive customer experience. 

    “Fourthly, staying abreast of regulatory requirements and compliance standards is vital. Adhering to local laws builds credibility and minimizes legal risks. Lastly, nurturing a customer-centric approach is paramount. Understanding the unique needs of Nigerian consumers and providing exceptional customer service can create brand loyalty and sustain the business amid challenges”.

    The Webcore Nigeria founder said businessmen like late MKO Abiola, Gabriel Igbinedon and Patriarch of the Ibru dynasty, Micheal, inspired him in business life. 

    “My business role models have always been Michael Ibru, Gabriel Igbinedion, and MKO Abiola. These remarkable individuals have not only inspired me but also shaped my entrepreneurial aspirations. What fascinates me the most is their ability to amass wealth from humble beginnings, proving that hard work, determination, and innovation can transform lives. Michael Ibru’s journey, from starting a small trading business to establishing a vast business empire, showcases the power of perseverance and vision. 

    “Gabriel Igbinedion’s success story, building an empire from scratch, highlights the importance of tenacity and strategic decision-making. MKO Abiola, a symbol of entrepreneurial excellence, demonstrated how business acumen and leadership can drive societal change and economic progress,” the Webcore Nigeria head said.

  • Google rebrands AI chatbot, Bard, to Gemini

    Google rebrands AI chatbot, Bard, to Gemini

    Tech giant Google has announced that Bard, it’s AI chatbot, has been renamed Gemini, adopting the name of the text, voice, and image-capable AI model that began powering the Bard chatbot in December.

    In a statement on Thursday, google revealed that Gemini, which is receiving more prominent positioning among Google’s services, will have its dedicated app on Android phones. On Apple mobile devices, Gemini will be integrated into the primary Google app.

    “Bard has been the best way for people to directly experience our most capable models. To reflect the advanced tech at its core, Bard will now simply be called Gemini. It’s available in 40 languages on the web and is coming to a new Gemini app on Android and the Google app on iOS,” the statement stated.

    The version featuring Ultra will be known as Gemini Advanced, offering a new experience that is far more capable in reasoning, following instructions, coding, and creative collaboration.

    “For example, it can be a personal tutor, tailored to your learning style. Or it can be a creative partner, helping you plan a content strategy or build a business plan. You can read more in this post,” Google added.

    Read Also: Google funds Impact Amplifier’s AOSP launch

    Anyone can begin using Gemini Advanced by subscribing to the new Google One AI Premium plan, which consolidates the best of Google’s AI features in one place. This premium plan expands on the popular Google One service, offering extended storage and exclusive product features.

    Bringing Gemini’s Capabilities to More Products

    Gemini models are also being introduced to products widely used by individuals and businesses, including Workspace and Google Cloud:

    “Already, more than one million people are using features like ‘Help me write’ to enhance their productivity and creativity through Duet AI. Duet AI will become Gemini for Workspace, and soon consumers with the Google One AI Premium plan can use Gemini in Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Meet.

    “For Cloud customers, Duet AI will also transition to Gemini in the coming weeks. Gemini will assist companies in boosting productivity, developers in coding faster, and organisations in protecting themselves from cyberattacks, among countless other benefits,” Google explained.

    Regarding future developments, Google noted, “Hundreds of thousands of developers and businesses have already been building with Gemini models. While today focuses on Gemini Advanced and its new capabilities, next week we will share more details on what’s coming for developers and Cloud customers.

    “These latest updates reflect our bold approach to innovation and the responsible advancement and deployment of this technology. We’re already well underway in training the next iteration of our Gemini models.”