The Nation Newspaper

Category: Technology

  • ICT pivotal in ensuring success of Tinubu’s agenda, says expert

    ICT pivotal in ensuring success of Tinubu’s agenda, says expert

    Accountability expert and E-government lecturer, Malcolm Oseahon, has opined that Information and communication technologies (ICT) is pivotal to actualising the eight points agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

    Oseahon spoke against the backdrop of calls for the scrapping/unbundling of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (FMHAPA) during an interview on Arise TV.

    He opined that the Ministry can fulfill its mandate if it is made a coordinating Ministry and not an implementing or executing ministry.

    Oseahon explained that the ministry should with the aid of ICT focus solely on coordinating, supervising, and regulating government interventions across the 747 local government, 36 states, and FCT, rather than interfering with the finance and execution of actual projects except when it is unavoidable.

    The South Korean-trained expert highlighted how the electronic government will naturally make the Ministry and every other Ministry, Department, and Agency accountable to both the government of the day and the citizens it was created to serve.

    Read Also: Don’t make money your God, Tinubu urges Nigerians

    He said: “The Federal Government has to be more proactive in ensuring that whatever it has promised to the people gets to the people; they should pay cardinal attention to what he termed the four pillars of government interactions, which include:

    o The Government to Citizens (G2C)

    o   The Government to Government (G2G)

    o   The Government to Business (G2B)

    o   The Government to Employees (G2E)

    “These pillars of government interactions will give the administration the needed direction in achieving resolute gains in the fight against poverty.

    “Government has to find a way to be in the lives of these people daily, to be able to practically lift them out of poverty, and ICT as an enabler for government service is the only way.

    “A people’s centric dashboard must be created to track and manage;

    o   The authenticity of the National Social Register

    o   Cash and non-cash palliative distribution,

    o   Healthcare services,

    o   Disbursement of financial aid,

    o   Proportion of men, women, and children progression out of poverty and,

    o   Loan disbursement and recovery.

    o   Student loan”

    He noted that the creation of the dashboard will be the game changer for this administration and will heal the ailing Ministry of the trust deficit it is currently suffering from.

    “Creating this dashboard will promote transparency and accountability to the point that individuals and nongovernmental institutions will be willing to contribute their funds to this novel project that the world will gladly benchmark in their quest to meet up with global best practices”. Oseahon concluded.

  • Cybersecurity basics: 10 tips to protect your personal information

    Cybersecurity basics: 10 tips to protect your personal information

    In an increasingly digital world, safeguarding your personal information is crucial. Cybersecurity awareness is essential for protecting yourself from online threats.

    Here are 10 tips to help you enhance your online security:

    1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Create complex passwords using a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable information, such as your name or birthdate.

    2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security by enabling 2FA wherever possible. This typically involves receiving a code on your phone or email in addition to entering your password.

    3. Regularly Update Your Software: Keep your operating system, antivirus software, and other applications up to date. Updates often include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.

    4. Beware of Phishing Attempts: Be cautious of unsolicited emails, messages, or links. Cybercriminals often use phishing techniques to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information. Verify the legitimacy of the sender before clicking on any links.

    5. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network: Set a strong password for your Wi-Fi network to prevent unauthorized access. Use WPA3 encryption for the highest level of security.

    6. Monitor Your Online Accounts: Regularly review your online accounts for any suspicious activity. If you notice anything unusual, change your password immediately and report the incident to the platform.

    7. Be Mindful of Social Media Privacy Settings:
    Adjust the privacy settings on your social media accounts to control who can see your personal information. Limit the amount of personal details you share publicly.

    Read Also: SGORL trains youths on cybersecurity

    8. Use Secure Websites for Online Transactions: When making online purchases or entering sensitive information, ensure the website has “https://” in the URL. This indicates a secure, encrypted connection.

    9. Backup Your Data: Regularly back up important files and documents. In the event of a cyber attack or hardware failure, having a backup ensures you won’t lose valuable information.

    10. Educate Yourself on Current Threats: Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices. Understanding potential risks empowers you to make informed decisions and protect yourself online.

    By following these cybersecurity basics, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to online threats and help create a safer digital environment for yourself and those around you. Stay vigilant, stay secure!

  • Google introduces two AI updates to search engine

    Google introduces two AI updates to search engine

    Tech Giant Google has launched two new search functions powered by artificial intelligence (AI)

    The two AI features, Circle to search and Multisearch in the lens, will enable users to engage with search functionalities in a more easy and meaningful way.

    Elizabeth Reid, Vice President, Search said, “For more than two decades, we’ve continuously redefined what a search engine can do — always guided by our mission to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful.

    “This has gone hand in hand with our ongoing advancements in AI, which help us better understand information in its many forms — whether it’s text, audio, images or videos.

    Read Also: Google’s top 10 most searched food recipes in Nigeria in 2023

    “As part of this evolution, we’ve made it easier to express what you’re looking for in ways that are more natural and intuitive. For instance, you can search with your voice, or you can search with your camera using Lens.

    “And recently, we’ve been testing how generative AI’s ability to understand natural language makes it possible to ask questions on Search in a more natural way.

    “Ultimately, we envision a future where you can search anyway, anywhere you want. Now, as we enter 2024, we’re introducing two major updates that bring this vision closer to reality: Circle to Search and an AI-powered multisearch experience. Let’s take a look at what’s ahead.”

    She said Circle to Search, is a new way to search anything on your Android phone screen without switching apps while Multisearch in Lens, pioneered in 2022 is a new way to search multimodally, with both images and text, by pointing your camera, asking a question, and getting help.

  • ICF, PMFM in TARM cooperative initiative to empower teachers

    ICF, PMFM in TARM cooperative initiative to empower teachers

    Illmi Children’s Fund (ICF) and Peace Microfinance Bank (PMFB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish the TARM cooperative for teachers.

    Among other things, TARM is an initiative designed to empower teachers financially and support their crucial role in providing quality education.

    Maryam Augie-Abdulmumin, Executive Director of ICF during the endorsement of the parley at the weekend in Abuja, said, TARM, which means Training, Advocacy, Research, and Mentorship, was developed to enhance the impact and life of both male and female teachers.

    She said: “The TARM Cooperative is an offshoot of the TARM initiative. Even though TARM’s primary aim is to empower female teachers in their work with adolescent girls which they do through mentorship and training in the prevention of Gender Based Violence (GBV) at home and school.”

    According to her, the cooperative is more holistic and seeks to help both male and female teachers plan for a secure retirement.

    She added: “The initiative will also empower teachers who become members to retire to a future of ease.

    “ICF is committed to social impact through empowerment and entrepreneurship and we couldn’t pass off the golden opportunity that this partnership offered to do what we do best.”

    Ms. Judith Chinedu Onyishi, the Managing Director of Peace Microfinance Bank stated: “Through this partnership with ICF on setting up the TARM Cooperative, we are giving teachers access to financial tools and resources they need to plan for a secure future while strengthening their ability to continue to do their work wholeheartedly.

    “We believe that teachers deserve a retirement plan that is dignifying and gives them hope. The TARM Cooperative is a significant step towards ensuring financial stability for teachers, allowing them to focus on their important work of educating and inspiring the next generation of leaders.”

    Read Also: PDP, ICF, criticise Kogi’s work free day over Buhari’s return

    The TARM Cooperative, an offshoot of the successful TARM program, offers a diverse range of benefits to eligible public school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with future expansion planned for private schools.

    These benefits, according to the partners include secure retirement plans and easy access to loans with flexible payment options.

    Other benefits of the initiative are exposing teachers to financial literacy training, and supporting them to pursue and support entrepreneurial ventures.

  • Engineering innovation: Humphrey Emeka Okeke helps US startups build faster, smarter, stronger

    Engineering innovation: Humphrey Emeka Okeke helps US startups build faster, smarter, stronger

    As America continues to champion entrepreneurship and technological growth, one researcher is providing startups with the tools to bring their ideas to life faster and more affordably. Humphrey Emeka Okeke, a systems developer and software engineering expert, is helping reshape how U.S. startups approach product development through the power of low-code technology.

    In his recently published study, “From Idea to Impact: Streamlining MVP Launches for Tech Startups,” Okeke outlines a groundbreaking strategy that enables startups to launch Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) rapidly using low-code development platforms like RadSystems Studio. His work, published in the International Journal of Computer Applications Technology and Research, is now gaining attention for its practical benefits to the U.S. tech and startup economy.

    Okeke’s framework is built around a key insight: early-stage startups often face technical and financial roadblocks that slow down innovation. By using visual, drag-and-drop development platforms, startups can build functional apps and systems in weeks instead of months—without needing large software teams or deep technical backgrounds.

    His findings show:

    • Up to 85% reduction in development time

    • 40–60% savings on initial product launch costs

    • Greater success in early user testing and feedback

    This efficiency not only speeds up the path to market but also allows entrepreneurs to iterate, improve, and grow more effectively

    Okeke’s research carries strong implications for the broader U.S. economy. Startups are one of the fastest-growing sources of new jobs, and his approach helps fuel that growth by making it easier for entrepreneurs to succeed. From healthcare and education to fintech and logistics, the ability to build quickly and affordably allows more Americans to participate in the digital economy.

    Read Also: Tinubu, others mourn former NEC boss Nwosu

    By encouraging homegrown software development, Okeke’s model also reduces the need for outsourcing, strengthens local supply chains, and supports national tech independence.

    One of the most powerful aspects of Okeke’s work is its inclusivity. Low-code platforms make innovation accessible to individuals who may not have traditional coding skills or venture capital funding. This opens doors for founders in underserved communities, rural areas, and emerging markets across the U.S.

    “Innovation should not be limited by technical expertise or location,” Okeke writes. “It should be open to anyone with a great idea and the drive to build it.

    As the United States continues to invest in digital infrastructure, startup accelerators, and entrepreneurship training, Humphrey Emeka Okeke’s work offers a timely and actionable roadmap. His low-code development strategy aligns perfectly with national goals around economic competitiveness, job creation, and inclusive innovation.

    With his research, Okeke isn’t just offering a technical solution—he’s building the foundation for a more agile, accessible, and resilient American innovation ecosystem.

    In an age where ideas are currency, Humphrey Emeka Okeke is helping U.S. startups turn them into reality.

  • Seun Mafa elevates 5Africa to new heights

    Seun Mafa elevates 5Africa to new heights

    5Africa, acclaimed for its pioneering role in online learning and Learning Management System (LMS) platforms, has announced a global expansion poised to redefine the scope of digital education worldwide. 

    With its operational base spanning Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, and the United States, 5Africa is strategically set to become a fundamental educational influenceacross five continents.

    Seun Mafa, a co-founder at 5Africa, and a notable figure in digital innovation, discussed the organisation’s vision. He stated: “Our mission is to provide an ecosystem where African students and professionals are equipped with world-class education, enabling them to excel globally. We are committed to bridging educational gaps, making high-quality courses accessible to a wider audience, thus cultivating a knowledgeable and adept global workforce.”

    Seun’s extensive past experience, including key roles in the U.S. government with the Department of Defense, Veteran Affairs and CMS significantly contributes to his visionary leadership at 5Africa. He emphasised the platform’s dedication to personalised and engaging learning experiences.

    Read Also: Adekunle Ajasin varsity elevates Ojedokun as professor

    “5Africa distinguishes itself with its advanced adaptive learning technologies, tailored to the individual needs of each learner. We are focused on **empowering our community with proficient scholars and professionals, aligning with the evolving global preference for personalised educational experiences.”

    The platform boasts an expansive catalogue of over 1,800 courses in STEM and other pivotal disciplines. 5Africa’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship is showcased in its integration of green technologies, demonstrating its responsibility towards environmental conservation and community development**.

    Seun, also the co-founder of Ignite Consults, based in Texas and Maryland, USA, brings a unique perspective to 5Africa, highlighting the platform’s impact on individuals and communities. “The testimonials of our beneficiaries, from young students in remote African villages to professionals in bustling metropolises, **strongly resonate with the transformative effect of 5Africa** on their lives and careers. We believe in the profound impact that accessible, high-quality education has, emphasizing the significance of our endeavor.”

    Seun shared insights into 5Africa’s expansion and its pioneering role in digital education, stating:”Our expansion is rooted in our commitment to democratizing education globally. We envision a future where everyone, irrespective of their location or background, can access premier learning resources. Education is the key to unlocking human potential, and 5Africa is dedicated to opening doors of opportunity for learners worldwide.”

    He elaborated on 5Africa’s cutting-edge approach. “5Africa leverages the latest in technology to personalize learning experiences. Our goal is to create a global community of learners, not just knowledgeable, but also equipped with skills essential for the digital age. Our expansion is a strategic endeavor to reach more learners and create a lasting impact on the global education landscape.”

    5Africa, under Seun’s guidance, is also at the forefront of AI innovation on the African continent. This involves collaboration with top educational institutions, organizations, and governments. Seun added, “We are actively seeking partnerships with like-minded entities that align with our vision for a digitally inclusive future. Together, we can transform the educational landscape and empower individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.”

    Looking forward, Seun envisions a future for 5Africa that transcends its current offerings. “Our roadmap involves exploring emerging technologies, expanding our course catalog, and extending the platform’s reach. We aim to bring comprehensive education to the most remote locations, nurturing an informed and capable global citizenry**.”

    5Africa, a visionary e-learning platform under Seun’s leadership, collaborates with premier universities and educational institutions globally. Dedicated to empowering students, researchers, and learners, it offers world-class certifications and degrees across various subjects. The company’s goal is to transform lives by providing an affordable gateway to an Ivy League education through an innovative e-learning experience.

  • Naebi Dynamic Concept acquires new technology to enhance service delivery

    Naebi Dynamic Concept acquires new technology to enhance service delivery

    An indigenous operator in the Aviation sector, NAEBI Dynamic Concepts Limited is acquiring additional equipment to enhance its service delivery.

    The company is acquiring Information Technology Tracking Devices, Body-worn Cameras, and Control Room complete Facility Rack fitted with other support Information Technology Facilities that will capture and relay data for Helicopters flying in and out of Nigeria.

    Chike Stanley, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NAEBI Dynamic Concepts Limited, stated that the move to re-fleet its equipment profile is part of the company’s strategy to ensure it achieves its objectives on job creation and fulfilling its mandate of generating revenue for the Federal Government of Nigeria.

    Speaking on the development, an official of the Equipment Company in the United Kingdom -Tensor, Mr Martin Head, stated that its company is working with Messrs NAEBI Dynamic Concepts Limited and the Federal Ministry of Aviation & Aerospace Development to achieve the tracking of Helicopters in and out of Nigeria from the Control Room.

    He confirmed the reliability of the equipment, describing it as very robust and innovative with unique software that would aid comprehensive and accurate investigation of the Company’s operations.

    Speaking more on the efforts to consolidate its service delivery, Mr Stanley said NAEBI Dynamic Concepts Limited will be acquiring a Mobile Radar to help cover low-level flights from 5000 feet above sea level with high-density cameras and other technological devices to be deployed to the area. 

    According to him, the thrust is to contribute to increasing the nation’s Gross Domestic Product through the Ministry of Aviation; creating jobs, and reducing security risks and youth restiveness, especially in the Niger Delta Region.

    The NAEBI Chief Executive further revealed that the project scope would assist the Government in collating data on the day-to-day movements of helicopters in Nigeria

    He emphasized that the Company’s operation is playing a huge role in reducing the unemployment rate and lauded the Federal Government for supporting the NAEBI Dynamic Concepts Limited project.

    He also thanked representatives of the Ministry Of Aviation and Aerospace Development, who were part of the entourage to the United Kingdom to obtain first-hand information on the project and process.

    During the meeting, Mr. Christopher Omoaghe, the Special Adviser to the minister on Special Projects and Duties, spoke on behalf of the Ministry of Aviation & Aerospace Development, highlighting the challenges faced by the Ministry, including the provision of incorrect schedules and data, as well as the submission of falsified amounts by operators attempting to bypass the system.

    Also in the entourage were the Director of Corporate Services, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and the Deputy Director of Air Transport, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.

    Mr. Stanley applauded the team from the Federal Ministry of Aviation & Aerospace Development, for their involvement in the project, assuring them of the company’s capacity to deliver on the set timelines.

    He said: “Work has commenced and the current delay is on easy access and compliance.”

    This, he said, would take about three months.

    As for the launch of the project, he stated that it would take about a year for the Control Room to be delivered.

    He said: “We intend to train another batch of Helicopter Monitoring Officers (HMOs) in Aviation Security (AVSEC) basic 1, 2, 3, Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) courses by the first quarter of 2024, as well as deploy needed equipment that will enhance efficient navigational services.

    “We believe in the overall success of this initiative and will continue to do all we can while upholding International standard practice in fulfilling our mandate. This is in furtherance of our aim to forestall revenue losses.

    Read Also: Sanction companies owing landing levies, firm tells Fed Govt

     “To this end, we began by consulting with stakeholders in the industry, including the Helicopter Operators, Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA)’s Airspace Managers, Air Traffic Controllers, Executive Governors in the Niger Delta Region and the International Oil Companies (ILOs)/Local Oil Companies (LOCs).

    He added: “We have left nothing to chance in developing this value chain with a series of strategic activities. We have also continued to engage State Government in the Niger Delta Region, having provided and commissioned operational vehicles and a call centre in Port Harcourt International Airport, General Aviation Terminal Building.

    “In the last three years, we have sustained our operations adding value to the industry with the mandate given us by the Government. We have successfully sensitized the stakeholders and public on the project.”

    He thanked the Minister of Aviation & Aerospace Development for being forthright and showing the will to reposition the aviation sector to meet international standards and practice.

    Also, he commended the Minister for tackling the bureaucracy in the system to fast-track development.

    He expressed optimism that the company will do more despite the challenges it is facing.

  • Tech company invests in Ugandan football

    Tech company invests in Ugandan football

    Tunga, a technology staffing firm, has shown its commitment to Ugandan football by hosting a five-day training course for football coach educators in Uganda.

    The course, facilitated in collaboration with the Federations of Ugandan Football Associations (FUFA), took place from December 13th to 17th, 2023, at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru, Uganda.

    The training aimed to equip youth football players with problem-solving skills both on and off the pitch, benefiting over 38 coaches from seven regions.

    Tunga’s CEO, who is also a UEFA-B certified youth football coach, Ernesto Spruyt, brought a team of experts from the Netherlands to conduct the training course.

    This includes Kevin Kanu of Kanu Experience, who is also a youth coach at Sparta Rotterdam. The training curriculum consisted of both theoretical and field training.

    Ernesto Spruyt spoke on problem-solving skills as an important phenomenon in any profession whether on the pitch or in tech and that the goal of training FUFA coaches was to integrate the art of problem-solving into the way they teach football.

    He said: “You need to solve problems! Create a culture where they (youths) are allowed to make mistakes, where they are allowed to take risks. Creating an environment where it’s safe to make mistakes, risk and penalty-avoiding behaviour limits learning.”

    The Uganda Youth Football Association (UYFA) chairman, Robert Kiwanuka expressed his gratitude for this training saying it is a boost to the Ugandan football industry and it would help the coaches to meet foreign standards.

    FUFA Technical Director, Ali Mwebe, showed great delight and noted that most of the FUFA coaches need more resident educators who can provide them with quality training in their regions.

    He stated: “This course will give them a chance to have their abilities, qualities, and skills identified. We believe this is a wonderful development working with Uganda Youth Football Associations.”

    Speaking with one of the participants of the training, the director of Kickit Soccer Academy in Uganda, Alex Kahlima said the course has changed his idea of what coaching is and how to improve his coaching career

    Read Also: Ugandan footballer slumps, dies watching EPL

    He added: “The course has taught us as coaches to be more player-centered rather than being coach-centered because the player solves the problems on the field [in comparison with] always having the coaches conducting everything without the influence or involvement of the players.”

    Ernesto Spruyt at the concluding stages of the training said: “Football is a creative channel to teach young people life skills such as the art of critical thinking and problem solving and the coaches are funnels to spread this knowledge amongst the youths in Uganda. We are positive that the coaches can influence their players by leveraging this knowledge, causing a ripple effect and making not just great football players but also better human beings.”

    The training ended on the 17th of December, 2023 with an awarding ceremony where each participant coach received a certificate.

    Tunga, a tech staffing company is on a mission to unleash Africa’s tech talent in some of the most unconventional ways. We take a social and talent development approach by looking for ways to provide African talent with international job opportunities and groom the up-and-coming talent for the international market.

  • Apology

    Apology

    In our online edition of January 11, 2024, we published a story with the title: Wunmi Aloba, Femi Falana threatening me – Mohbad’s father cries out.

    But we have since discovered that we should not have published that kind of story. We hold the activist-lawyer in high esteem and could not have intentionally gone out of our way to defame him.

    We hereby tender our unreserved apology to Femi Falana, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) – Editor

  • Bespoke by Aisha Ochuwa Jewellery Academy moulds jewellers

    Bespoke by Aisha Ochuwa Jewellery Academy moulds jewellers

    Leading female entrepreneur, Aisha Ochuwa Tella, has continued to etch lasting footprints in Nigeria and the jewellery sector with her Bespoke by Aisha Ochuwa Limited, an offshoot company under Aisha Ochuwa Limited and one that serves as Jewellery Academy. 

    Aisha Ochuwa Limited is a reputable brand in the African fashion industry. The brand is miles ahead other competitors, creating unimaginable and excellent assortment of stainless steel watches and jewellery masterminded by Aisha Ochuwa Tella, a quintessential entrepreneur, who is on a mission to revolutionise fashion, redefine sophistication and adornment for men and woman, as it complements appearances.

    Aisha Ochuwa Limited and now Bespoke by Aisha  Ochuwa Limited, have gone as far as the creative imagination of their visioner. Aisha Ochuwa Limited, the undisputable leader in jewellery designs, has blown the minds of those who behold its piece, leaving them in bewilderment over the level of meticulousness invested in its craft work; in the effort to meet the highest standards of quality and expectation of its clients. The company’s pervasive jewelry collection includes a wide range of bracelets, necklaces, rings, and earrings.

    Read Also: Aisha Ochuwa earns Entrepreneur Of The Year nomination from CEOs Network Africa

    Bespoke by Aisha  Ochuwa Limited is the latest brain child and product of forward thinking Aisha Ochuwa Tella, who keeps getting ahead of everybody; the hallmark of pioneers. Through the academy, she is determined to create the uncommon opportunity which she never had for others. Bespoke by Aisha Ochuwa Limited has become the ultimate destination for jewellery enthusiasts, incorporating being a super brand with helping the young ones begin the journey towards excellence, creativity, and entrepreneurial success, in world’s most unique learning environment, in unregimented company of the best jeweler.

    “The company runs a subscription based website where subscribers learn how to make different beautiful and unique designs of Jewellery, with the use of all kinds of jewellery making tools. Subscription options are one month, six months and one year,” Bespoke by Aisha Ochuwa Limited wrote.

    “The program is called “Bench Jewellery” and interested subscribers get a Certificate in Bench Jewellery upon application for a certificate and after completion of the assigned Jewellery making projects. The Jewellery Academy was set up, due to the high demand of guidance and lectures by onlookers and customers, having watched the brand and noticed great expertise for years.”

    With guaranteed and unrestrained access to the best content, Bespoke by Aisha Ochuwa Limited added: “At Bespoke by Aisha Ochuwa, we understand that your journey into the world of bench jewellery is a personal and transformative experience. Unlock exclusive access to limited edition content and delve into niche areas, allowing you to explore specialised techniques and styles.”