The Nation Newspaper

Category: Technology

Raedial Farms signs partnership deal with French firm

The Management of Raedial Farms Limited a subsidiary of Raedial Holdings Limited has signed a Partnership Agreement with Compagnie Fruitere, a French company that markets over 900,000 tons of fruits and vegetables across the European markets as well as a major fruit producer in the Africa-Caribbean-Pacific region.

This great economic relationship occurred at the French Week 2023 Business Summit held at Access Towers, Lagos. The signing was witnessed by prominent persons in the Nigerian and French governments such as the French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade, Economic Attractiveness and French Nationals Abroad, Olivier Becht; Herbert Wigwe, C.F.R, the President of the France-Nigeria Business Council & CEO Access Bank Plc; Usman Mohammed, the President of the Franco-Nigerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Taiwo Oyedele, the chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms to name a few.

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The French Week 2023 Business Forum, touted as the largest business networking event in Nigeria, drew together an impressive array of key figures in both countries in a bid to deepen the business and economic interests between the two nations especially since Nigeria accounts for about 20% of France’s trade with sub-Saharan Africa, amounting to an estimate of €3.53 billion.

With this partnership, Raedial Farms Limited will diversify its operations from solely oil palm full-fledged farming activities spread over more than 2500 hectares of land and livestock products to the production of fruits for exportation. The operation will include planting, cultivating, harvesting, processing, distribution, and exportation of pineapples and bananas.

Given the long-standing presence of Compagnie Fruitere in Africa and Europe, and its expertise in the production, import and export, transportation, ripening, and distribution of fresh fruits and vegetables, the partnership will see both companies synergize to benefit from each other’s strengths in the technical, procurement, marketing, production, and distribution aspects of agriculture.

The collaboration also aims for improved cultivation techniques, product quality, sustainability practices, and operational efficiency of both companies.

The MD of Raedial Farms Limited, Mr. Uwadiale Agenmonmen said: “For us at Raedial Farms, this partnership further exemplifies our dedication to contributing to the growth of the France-Nigeria Agricultural relationship and shows the pivotal role large-scale farming plays in the Agric sector.”

Didier Mas, Technical Director for Africa at Compagnie Fruitere, stated, “Nigeria is a country with massive financial potentials, especially following the current government’s pledge to open up its economy to others in a bid to grow the GDP.”

Speaking at the event, Olivier Becht stated: “This collaboration reflects a commitment to strengthening the countries’ ties and fostering mutual benefits in agriculture since the agri-food industry stands as a beacon for cooperation between our two great nations especially as Nigeria is France’s first trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa.”

November 29, 2023
Five printable marketing items for small business success

In Nigeria, businesses face a myriad of challenges that impede their growth and success. Factors such as inadequate infrastructure, bureaucratic hurdles, and economic instability contribute to a challenging business environment.

Additionally, the high cost of energy, inconsistent power supply, and sometimes unpredictable regulatory landscape further compound the struggles for entrepreneurs and established businesses alike. These difficulties make it essential for businesses to explore effective marketing strategies that can cut through the noise and reach their target audience in a meaningful way.

Amidst these challenges, Accuxel, a reputable printing company in Nigeria has taken it upon themselves to educate businesses on how print marketing has the potential to emerge as a game changer for businesses in Nigeria. While digital marketing is on the rise, print materials, such as brochures, flyers, and posters, offer a tangible and enduring connection with the local audience. In a country where access to the internet is not universal, print materials can reach a wider demographic, providing a more inclusive means of communication.

Here are five marketing items for small business success

1) Flyers & Brochures

In a world dominated by digital marketing, the enduring power of tangible promotional materials for business cannot be overlooked. Flyers and brochures, often underrated in the age of online advertising, stand out as versatile and effective marketing items for small businesses.

These customizable, printed pieces serve as impactful promotional materials, allowing businesses to creatively showcase their products or services. From local events to door-to-door distribution, flyers are a cost-effective means of reaching potential customers directly.

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Small businesses can leverage the potential of custom marketing products like flyers to create a lasting impression and maximize visibility in their target market, making them one of the best promotional items for small business success.

2) Posters:

Talk about the dynamic landscape of promotional materials for business, few tools wield the visual impact and versatility of posters. For small businesses striving for marketing success, posters stand out as indispensable marketing items, offering a canvas to showcase products or services creatively. These custom marketing materials serve as attention-grabbing, tangible expressions of a brand’s identity, making them one of the best promotional items for small businesses.

When thoughtfully designed and strategically placed, posters become powerful allies in the pursuit of brand recognition, making them an essential component of any small business’s marketing arsenal.

3) Banners and Signs:

In the dynamic landscape of business promotion, strategically deploying custom Banners and Signs emerges as a pivotal tactic for small business success. When done right and in the right location, these vibrant promotional materials for business serve as dynamic marketing items, seamlessly capturing attention and fostering brand visibility Thanks to their big size.

For small businesses seeking impactful marketing items, custom banners, and signs can help you stand out as versatile and cost-effective solutions.

4) Stickers and Labels:

Custom stickers and labels are the unsung heroes that transform mundane promotional materials into powerful brand ambassadors.

Imagine a small local bakery or cake baker strategically placing vibrant stickers on its signature boxes, creating visually appealing packaging that not only enhances brand recognition but also serves as a portable marketing tool.

These customizable marketing items for small businesses become catalysts for success, effortlessly engaging customers and sparking conversations. The adhesive charm of the stickers and labels positions them as indispensable promotional materials for business ventures aiming to make a lasting impression.

5) Calendars:

You can also unlock the potential of promotional materials for small businesses with a strategic twist—custom calendars. Imagine imprinting your brand on a year-long marketing tool that hangs prominently in your client’s offices or homes. These custom marketing products not only serve a functional purpose but also provide a daily reminder of your business.

As one of the best promotional items for small businesses, personalized calendars offer a tangible and enduring way to showcase your brand throughout the year.

Using any of the above marketing materials, small and big businesses can seamlessly integrate their marketing message into the daily lives of their target audience, creating lasting impressions that extend far beyond traditional advertising methods.

November 29, 2023
Nigeria film distribution firm launches International operations

Tribe Nation Theatrical Distribution Limited (TNTD), a mainstream entertainment company dedicated to the distribution and marketing of local and international filmed content, has announced the expansion of its distribution operations into French-speaking West Africa.

The strategic move marks a significant milestone for the company and its commitment to bringing compelling and diverse film content to audiences worldwide.

TNTD is also kicking off the international operations with the release of “The Other One” (under the title “L’Autre Homme”) in Cote d’Ivoire on December 1, 2023—just in time for the festive season. The movie was exclusively released in Nigeria on June 30, 2023, and has since garnered acclaim for its compelling storyline, outstanding performances, and high production values.

Recognitions for “The Other One” include an Official Selection at the 2023 Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF), three nominations, including Best Feature, at the 2023 Abuja International Film Festival (AIFF), and six nominations at the upcoming 2023 Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards.

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The film was produced by Lillian Amah Aluko’s New Dawn Productions and directed by David Gee Ahanmisi, is globally distributed by Tribe Nation Theatrical Distribution, who acquired the rights earlier this year.

The company first launched in February 2023 with the goal of addressing key theatrical distribution challenges in the African film industry, particularly in Nollywood. Now a provisional member of the Film Distributors Association of Nigeria (FDAN), Tribe Nation Theatrical Distribution has since successfully released several films within Nigeria, including the critically acclaimed “The Other One” and “Charlie And The Boys” (directed by Sele Got).

In August 2023, TNTD formed a strategic partnership with the Directors Guild of Nigeria. This collaboration aimed to empower guild members with essential distribution knowledge, fostering the creation of content tailored for the market while resonating with global audiences.

The decision to venture into international distribution aligns with Tribe Nation’s strategic vision of fostering cultural exchange and promoting African cinema globally. Facilitated in part through a pioneering collaboration with the African Film Institute (itself a partner of the African Union), this expansion will see Tribe Nation Theatrical Distribution extend the distribution of its catalog to fourteen African nations, including but not limited to Cote d’Ivoire, Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Gabon, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Senegal, Togo, and more.

Chief Executive Officer of TNTD, Anita Edwards in a statement said: “We are thrilled to announce the launch of our international distribution operations, a significant step in our journey to share the beauty and diversity of African cinema with audiences around the world.

“The release of ‘The Other One’ in French-speaking West Africa is just the beginning, and we look forward to bringing more compelling stories to cinema-goers across the continent and beyond. We would like to thank the African Film Institute and all our partners for their instrumental role in making this expansion a reality.”

The film distribution firm looks forward to captivating audiences across French-speaking West Africa with “The Other One” and anticipates further international expansion in the near future. The company invites film enthusiasts, industry partners, and the media to join in celebrating this momentous occasion and anticipates continued success in expanding its presence on the global stage.

TNTD is a mainstream entertainment company specializing in the distribution and marketing of local and international filmed content. With a distribution network spanning cinema, inflight entertainment, streaming platforms, and linear television networks within and outside Africa.

November 28, 2023
Patrick Idemudia: why we must adopt renewable energy

Patrick Idemudia is a seasoned Port Terminal professional with expertise in operations management, digital transformation, and sustainability strategies in the logistics industry. He has been in the industry for the last 17 years gaining experience in over 10 countries across 4 continents. Patrick is currently working on several insightful analysis, including a study on the impact of blockchain technology in Nigeria’s maritime sector and also the need to go green in port terminal operations. As a strong advocate for renewable energy, he shares his insights with OYEBOLA OWOLABI. Excerpts:

What drew you to this field, and what excites you most about working in the dynamic environment of port and terminal operations?

My journey into this industry began with my background in electrical engineering. After graduating, I became interested in global economics and trade, which led me to explore the shipping and ports business. What excites me about this field is its profound impact on international trade, supply chain efficiency, and economic growth—it’s a constantly evolving industry.

If you look around, nearly everything we use—whether in homes, hospitals, or malls—has passed through a port at some point. This highlights the critical role the industry plays in our daily lives. Strategic planning and operational efficiencies are at the core of port operations, providing endless opportunities for learning and growth.

I find it especially motivating to be involved in process improvement systems that impact both economic outcomes and environmental sustainability. The fast-paced nature of the business means I’m always learning something new whenever I step into the terminal.

Ports are lifelines for global trade, but managing them must come with challenges. Could you share key responsibilities and obstacles in operating container and dry bulk terminals?

Port terminal operations are incredibly complex. The process begins when goods are loaded at the source port and continues until they’re unloaded at the destination port. In between, systems are required to receive, store, manage, and load goods onto vessels. At the destination, the reverse cycle occurs—discharging, storing, and delivering goods to customers.

Technology plays a critical role here. Before its integration, operations were heavily manual and inefficient. Over the past 20 years, advancements like digitization, IoT, and blockchain have revolutionized the industry. These tools help improve efficiency, transparency, and safety.

However, challenges remain. For example, coordinating port operations—like tugging vessels in and out—and managing external players outside your direct influence require constant adaptability. It’s a complex ecosystem where every day brings new learning opportunities.

How is blockchain transforming port processes, and what potential does it have for improving efficiency and security in international shipping?

Blockchain is fundamentally about decentralization. It provides a digital, distributed ledger system that enhances efficiency, transparency, and accountability. Over the years, I’ve observed inefficiencies and sharp practices in the maritime sector, especially in Nigeria, and blockchain presents a promising solution.

For example, blockchain can streamline processes like shipment tracking, smart contracts, and bills of lading. It also ensures traceability and quality assurance. While some early initiatives, like Maersk’s partnership with IBM for the TradeLens platform, faced challenges due to limited adoption and economic viability, the concept continues to evolve.

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Blockchain is becoming more prominent across industries—from arts to medicine to law to technology—and holds immense potential for transforming the shipping industry by fostering trust, transparency, and operational efficiency recognition.

What sustainable energy options hold the most promise for ports, and how could they impact the environmental footprint of port operations?

With my background in electrical engineering, I’m familiar with various renewable energy sources like wave, tidal, wind, and solar energy. These are free resources that can be harnessed to generate power. Integrating these solutions at ports would be a win-win—it reduces environmental impact while creating revenue and fostering industrialisation.

One notable method is cold ironing, where vessels connect to onshore power systems, turning off their diesel engines while docked. Despite its potential, it hasn’t received much attention. Conversations around sustainability need to focus on long-term benefits, ensuring we don’t compromise the future for short-term gains.

Can you share examples of ports successfully integrating renewable energy?

There are several examples globally. In Scotland, a company uses underwater turbines to generate tidal energy, supplying electricity to over 105,000 homes. Spain’s Port of Mutriku.

Finally, what are your future plans?

Thank you very much for this question. Interestingly, my intention is to enrol for a PhD in the area of Logistics and Port Management with a concentration on Blockchain. This will help me expand my research work in integrating blockchain technolgy in the global port management system. I will be reaching out to a couple of institutions of higher learning to kick-start the process.

November 24, 2023
Google’s Hustle Academy awards N75m to 15 Nigerian SMBs

No fewer than 5,300 small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) across Africa on Thursday, November 23, celebrated their graduation from Google‘s Hustle Academy, showcasing their commitment to enhancing their business skills and knowledge.

This graduation marks a continuation of the program’s impact, with over 10,300 entrepreneurs having participated since its inception in 2022.

The Hustle Academy program which is designed to address specific challenges faced by SMBs in Africa, offers practical skills and resources to help these businesses grow.

This year’s graduation adds to the momentum gained from last year’s 5,000 graduates, reflecting a growing community of businesses engaged in continuous learning and improvement.

Alongside the graduation, 15 SMBs have been chosen to receive support from the 75 Million Naira Hustle Academy Fund. This initiative aims to provide a combination of financial assistance, mentorship, and business tool access to some of the most promising Nigerian SMBs.

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Olumide Balogun, Google West Africa Country Director, stated: “The passion and resilience shown by these SMBs are truly inspiring. The Hustle Academy is a testament to what focused training and resources can achieve. We are not just celebrating their graduation today; we are recognizing their potential to reshape and invigorate the Nigerian business landscape.”

Femi Bolaji, founder of Wauley Projects Limited, a graduate from Nigeria and one of the 15 fund recipients, commented: “The Hustle Academy has equipped us with vital business knowledge, and being selected for the fund is a significant boost that will propel our business forward.”

The graduates and fund recipients represent a diverse array of industries, each bringing a unique story and vision for the future.

The recipients represent various industries and demonstrate the creativity of Nigerian entrepreneurs, here are the names of the recipients:

1.         Ifeoma Augusta Anselem – Rae’s Clothing

2.         Femi Bolaji – Wauley Projects Limited

3.         Nafisa Abdulrazaq Sabo – Pinch N’ Dash

4.         Funmilola Moronke Agbayewa – Segunfunmi Foods Nigeria Limited

5.         Chigozie Bashua – The Nut Place Limited

6.         John Samuel Andefiki – Kita Farm

7.         Hussaini Aliyu Baba – Lead Way Family Poultry

8.         Aminu Abdulkarim – A.A.K. Shoes

9.         Constance Ufuoma Edesiri – Stance Fashion Empire

10.       Chikere Onyinyechi Breakthrough – Clozetsales

11.       Anita Aletor – Rotela Business Synergy

12.       Ojo Femi Christopher – Foodlane ventures

13.       Angela Jidechukwu Nwabueze – Jelapetra Farms Ltd

14.       Eniola Robert – Ennie Wears

15.       Blessing Akpan – Inyene Agro Processing Factory Ltd

November 23, 2023
Insight Redefini, Subsidiary, Leo Burnett Lagos, sweep LAIF 2023 awards

One of the nation’s leading integrated marketing communications outfits, Insight Redefini, which is also a member of the world’s leading marketing communications group, Publicis Groupe, has emerged as the most awarded advertising group at the just-concluded Lagos Advertising and Ideas Festival (LAIF) 2023 Awards ceremony.

Congratulating his team for raising the bar in creative advertising, CEO of the Insight Redefini Group, Dr. Tayo Oyedeji said: “Our victory at the 2023 LAIF Awards underscores our dedication to innovation and impactful storytelling. From enchanting narratives of mom-wizards crafting magical dishes with Terra cubes to reviving nostalgic advertising icons like 7up’s Fido Dido and Guilder’s ‘Senior Men,’ and creating new worlds for payment gateway leaders like Moniepoint, our work speaks to our ability to shape and redefine narratives. This recognition fuels our pride and motivates us to achieve even more.”

The awards ceremony, which marks a significant celebration of innovation, creativity, and excellence in the advertising industry, recognised the group and two of its agencies – Leo Burnett Lagos and Insight Publicis – for creative campaigns conceived and implemented for some of the country’s biggest brands, resulting in 18 Gold Awards, 20 Silver Awards, 19 Bronze Awards, and the most prestigious award of the festival – the Grand Prix, LAIF’s most prestigious award given for an outstanding creative concept that redefined industry standards. Overall, the Insight Redefini group secured a total of 351 points among other creative agencies present.

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Group General Manager and Chief Operating Officer, Babatunde Shobanjo, expressed his excitement at the win saying: “I have never doubted the creative work from our teams. This is simply a testament to our commitment to deliver exciting campaigns for our clients and partners. This is the perfect close to a busy, but rewarding year for our group.”

Independently, creative advertising and marketing agency, Leo Burnett Lagos, showcased its commitment to creative brilliance, earning the distinctive Best Creative Agency award at the LAIF 2023 Awards while Insight Publicis received multiple recognitions for the overall best advertising campaigns across all categories.

Executive Creative Director, Insight Redefini Group, Sinmisola Hughes-Obisesan, commended the LAIF jury and board for its transparency:

“Thanks to the LAIF management board and jury for recognizing a campaign that truly sets a new standard, in both distinct storytelling and excellent crafting. Without a doubt, the creative advertising industry will witness more creative work from our group in the coming months.”

Insight Redefini is the largest integrated marketing communications group in West Africa, consisting of six leading creative and communication companies, including; Insight Publicis, All Seasons Zenith, Quadrant MSL, Starcomms Media Perspectives, Digitas, and Leo Burnett Lagos.

The LAIF Awards continue to serve as a beacon for recognizing creative ingenuity, nurturing talent, and fostering healthy competition within the advertising industry. As the event celebrates the abundance of creativity within the industry, it also emphasises the imperative of collectively striving for greatness in Nigerian advertising.

November 23, 2023
Media entrepreneur Joseph Effiong bags honorary doctorate degree

The Institute of Leadership Manpower and Management Development (ILMMD) has conferred Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership and Communication Management (Honoris Causa) on founder of UpdateAfrika Communications, Joseph Effiong.

The ILMMD is a professional body revered for administrative and leadership prestige competences, with membership made up of top, middle and lower-level executives and administrators,management development experts,consultant and spokesperson, amongst others.

The Institute, in a statement by its Director of Membership, Dr. Theophilus Cornerstone, described Effiong as one who has demonstrated atypical leadership across the board, adding that his career prowess, educational qualifications, and impressive contributions to the society all together merited him for the honour.

Cornerstone stated the conferment was in affiliation to the International Leadership Manpower and Management Development(ILMMD), United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.

He said Effiong was also conferred with ILMMD Distinguished Fellow Award by the reason of doctorate honour.

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Effiong is a fine media player that has displayed rare excellence and leadership skills, a trait which distinguished him among peers and driven his business to a competitive heights.

His skilfully- led UpdateAfrika is reputed to be Africa’s foremost media solution company of first choice whose clientele spreads across sectors in the continent.

Commenting further,Cornerstone said: “This is one of institute’s onerous effort at recognising his outstanding contributions to the practice of leadership; and to the greatness of society at large”.

Effiong will be officially decorated at ILLMD’s 25th induction and investiture ceremony holding December 16 in Lagos.

November 22, 2023
NIPR, IMPR seal deal on National Spokespersons’ Communications Awards

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has signed a historic deal with the Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR) – publishers of PRNigeria, Spokespersons’ Digest and Economic Confidential – for the hosting of the annual Spokespersons’ Communications Awards (SCA).

The epoch-making Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by NIPR President, Dr Ike Neliaku and Managing Director of IMPR, Mallam Yushau Shuaib at the institute in Abuja.

The awards will be an evolution of the SCA which the IMPR has been organising for three years. This year’s event will be held on December 7, the final edition as presently constituted. It will be succeeded by the new format to be unveiled in March 2024, in line with the pact.

The NIPR will “Endorse the Spokespersons Awards as the chief host; issue notifications to members in chapters and relevant stakeholders; recognize the award as part of its annual National Spokespersons Summit; provide the venue for the award ceremony; nominate the Chairman and three members of the seven-member jury.”

On its part, the IMPR will “Organise and finance the awards; provide trophies; handle souvenirs, logistics, publicity and media relations; create and manage the website; cater for the secretariat and receive all entries; nominate the secretary and two other members of the seven-member jury.”

In his remark, Dr Neliaku noted that the collaboration is history in the making as well as the reawakening of a new dawn for the practice of PR in Nigeria.

“This is the third in the series of MoUs with credible organisations led by NIPR practitioners; those contributing their quota to the service of the Institute, adding value to nation building. We are here to sign with our own Mallam Yushau Shuaib and his team from IMPR, who have accepted for us to work together to expand the Awards his organisation have been running for years.

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“NIPR is coming with the National Spokespersons Summit, a flagship programme aimed at having a solid foundation of spokespersons in Nigeria. It cuts across the private and public sector and civil society at local, state and federal levels. This is why we are here today; this is the first component of the action we are going to talk about in March next year.”

The CEO of IMPR, Mr. Shuaib noted that the spokespersons’ awards would recognise accomplishments, motivate others to strive for excellence, enhance visibility and add legitimacy to the reputation of recipients by demonstrating superiority, expertise and uniqueness.

“It will also create networking opportunities, business relationships, improve employees’ performance and boost their morale. We initiated this idea in 2018 with the former NIPR President, Mallam Mukhtar Sirajo, who commended our various exploits on the international scene. We are glad that the new leadership under Dr Neliaku has concretised with this solid agreement,” he added.

Others at the signing ceremony included NIPR Vice President, Prof Emmanuel Dandaura; Registrar, Uzoma Onyegbadue; ex-Army spokesman, Brig Gen Sani Usman Kukasheka (rtd), and ex-Adamawa State Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Ahmad Ibrahim Sajoh.

Apart from winning series of African SABRE PR Awards instituted by Provoke Media in a collaboration with African Public Relations Association, and the Golden World Awards (GWA) of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA), the IMPR was ranked the most creative PR agency by the Global Creative Index in 2020.

IMPR provides PR advisories to various sectors, including the financial industry, security agencies, public service and non-governmental organisations. Its expertise extends to handling complex communication challenges and promoting positive narratives.

November 19, 2023
Kwara signs partnership deal with IHS Towers on innovation hub

Kwara State Government has struck a deal with global telecoms giant IHS Towers to effectively deploy the Ilorin Innovation Hub to deliver on its core objectives of making the state the go-to place for innovation, technology and entrepreneurship as well as drive rapid socioeconomic growth.

“Today’s MOU signing represents a dream come true for our administration,” Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said on Saturday shortly after signing the deal in Ilorin, the state capital, at an event attended by top government officials and IHS leaders led by its chief executive officer Mohammed Darwish.

“In an age increasingly dominated by digital natives whose lives revolve around technology as well as digital naturals who live the realities of technology and the advantages it offers, we saw a need to lead in giving necessary skills and support to these important cohorts and leverage the same to build a stronger economy. Our objectives are to offer the tools, resources, and the environment that innovators and startups require to flourish, especially in the realm of digital and tech skills. By this, we see a future where Kwara sees job creation, poverty reduction, and improved well-being of the people.

“But having the right partnership and technical support to run this tech space is critical to achieving these objectives, efficiency and sustainability. This is why I am excited about this strategic partnership with the global tech giant IHS Towers to drive the project. With its proven expertise and legacy of innovation, HIS fits into our vision for this initiative.

“This is a partnership of huge mutual benefits. IHS is offering technical and organisational support in the operations, maintenance and management of it in exchange for certain benefits such as use and operation of the hub for the delivery of IHS training and ancillary programmes as well as branding rights, among other things.

“We strongly believe that public private partnership offers the right incentives for sustainability and economic growth. Even so, we are committed to preserving the interest of the people and the state as owners of these investments.”

The facility is envisioned to be a leading centre for technology and innovation in Nigeria, focusing on fostering disruptive ideas and supporting startups.

Temi Kolawole, the Innovation Hub’s Managing Director, remarked on the synergy between the two entities: “This partnership has identified a mutual focal point in our shared passion for innovation, digital skill enhancement, and job creation. We’re committed to ensuring the Hub’s sustainability and leaving a legacy, fuelled by Governor AbdulRahman’s vision for youth development that will trigger state and national development.”

Kolawole also mentioned the upcoming collaboration of the Ilorin Innovation Hub with the Federal Ministry of Communications Innovation and Digital Economy on various programmes, with IHS Towers as a mutual partner.

This partnership is anticipated to further enhance the Hub’s offerings and extend its impact, he added.

Darwish commended Kwara State’s progressive digital policies, particularly the free Right of Way for Fiber Optic Cable deployment, which is critical in facilitating the growth of the digital economy in the state.

“With the MoU in place, our focus is on transforming the Ilorin Innovation Hub into a reality by the second quarter of 2024,” he said.

Darwish said IHS Towers is firmly established in Nigeria, including Kwara State where it has laid more than 500 kilometres of fibre optic cable aside from connecting many local communities to its telecommunications networks.

“We have a system that we have deployed in rural areas and communities where they hitherto had zero coverage,” he added.

Engr Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria, said: “Your Excellency sir, I just want to say a big thank you for the good work you are doing in Kwara state. As Chairman of the association of telecom providers in Nigeria, the report we have received is that Kwara is one of the most friendly states for network operators. So, on behalf of the association, I want to thank you for being such a good leader. Kwara is not just on a globe map but Kwara is a state of reference for good governance and good leadership.

“They also told me that your cabinet has a number of young people, and is gender sensitive, and this is something that is very unusual not only in the history of the state but also in the country. Once again, I thank you.”

Kazeem Oladipo, Vice President of IHS Towers, said the Governor has shown good vision for the state, and that is paying off already in different areas.

“I want to remind His Excellency of the meeting we had about two and a half years ago, where you signified interest to do a fibre and told us to proceed with deployment. That meeting has brought a lot of positive developments to the state. Today, Kwara state has perhaps one of the top five deployment volumes that we’ve done in the entire country. And we are still doing more. As we speak, we are deploying additional fibre in the state. We have a plan to connect more locations, and we will see that through. With the innovation hub coming on board as well, we will provide additional connectivity infrastructure to the state.

“And to add to what Muhammed (CEO IHS) said about rural telephoning, you will also recall we came to you, you gave us land in different local government areas, and we have deployed in those rural networks. And that helps to bring internet and telephoning services to communities that previously had zero access to connectivity services. We will work with the team to continue to look at places where gaps exist.”

The Ilorin Innovation Hub, a state-of-the-art innovation facility initiated by the Kwara State Government, is designed to foster a conducive environment for youth, facilitating the learning of digital skills and supporting the growth of businesses through innovation and startup entrepreneurship.

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It is a testament to the government’s commitment to advancing technological proficiency and entrepreneurial spirit among the youth, positioning Kwara State as a hub for digital innovation and economic development.

IHS Towers, for its part, is the fifth largest independent owners, operators, and developers of shared telecommunications infrastructure in the world by tower count. With a significant presence across multiple countries, the company specialises in building and managing telecom towers and related infrastructure.

Renowned for its innovative approach, IHS Towers is famous for enhancing connectivity and supporting the expansion of wireless networks globally. The company’s achievements include significant contributions to the telecom sector, marked by the deployment of cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, making it a key player in the telecommunications infrastructure industry.

November 18, 2023
Zoho announces 50 percent growth in Nigeria, partners StartupSouth

Zoho, a global technology company, on Friday, November 17, announced that it grew by 50 percent in Nigeria in 2022.

The company, as part of its Zoho for Startups programme, has also partnered with #StartupSouth, an organisation that works towards the development of startups from South-South and South-East Nigeria.

Zoho, while announcing this at Zoholics Nigeria, the company’s annual user conference, held in Lagos also said it will be providing its contract management solution, Zoho Contracts, free for three months to help businesses improve compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Law.

Ali Shabdar, Regional Director, MEA, Zoho speaking at the programme said, “Our growth is a direct result of Nigerian businesses embracing cloud technology, especially unified platforms, to digitally transform and build resilience to adapt to challenging market conditions. Zoho’s unified technology stack, built from the ground up, allows us to meet such transformation needs of businesses with robust solutions that deliver consistently seamless user experiences at unbeatable value.”

Zoho’s growth in Nigeria is primarily driven by the adoption of Zoho One, the operating system for business, and Zoho Workplace, a unified enterprise collaboration platform.

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Also, Zoho CRM Plus (unified customer experience platform), Zoho Books (accounting software), and Zoho Desk (helpdesk software) are the other top-selling products in the country. Zoho also grew its partner network by 22% and doubled its employee count in 2022 in Nigeria to reinforce its local presence and better serve its customers.

“Our transnational localism strategy of being locally rooted while staying globally connected is also key to our growth in Nigeria as we are able to serve our customers directly with our locally hired teams in Lagos. Zoho is also one of the few vendors in Nigeria today that continues to provide their offerings in Naira, thereby protecting businesses from the fluctuating dollar rates, and ensuring that enterprise technology remains accessible to businesses of all sizes. Our partnership with #StartupSouth, and the special offer on Zoho Contracts, are further steps that underscore our commitment to serve the business community in the region,” said Kehinde Ogundare, Country Head, Zoho Nigeria.

On the partnership with Startup South, it said it has partnered with #StartupSouth through its Zoho for Startups programme. As part of this partnership, startups associated with #StartupSouth, new customers for Zoho, can avail of Zoho Wallet credits worth ₦ 470,000. This credit can be used to purchase or upgrade any of Zoho’s 55+ products, including Zoho One, the operating system for business, over a period of 360 days. Zoho One offers a unified platform that brings together over 50 Zoho products from CRM to HR management. The startups will also receive training to help them leverage Zoho’s products for their growth and in a way that they can easily scale.

“One of #StartupSouth’s goals is to provide startups associated with us easy access to comprehensive tech solutions that offer great value, are easy to use, and have the capability to grow with the businesses as they scale. We are happy to partner with Zoho, as they offer a wide range of business apps that can empower startups to quickly digitalise most of their business areas in one go, and streamline and unify their operations for better management and holistic visibility. With this partnership with Zoho, we are looking forward to helping budding businesses by removing access barriers to enterprise technology,” said Uche Aniche, Convener, #StartupSouth.

“Through the Zoho for Startups programme, we intend to onboard as many startups as we can, and be a part of their entrepreneurial journey right from the start. Keeping in mind Zoho’s vision and mission of ‘serving the underserved’, we carefully choose whom we collaborate with. I am glad to be partnering with #StartupSouth whose passion and focus on supporting the startups is very much in sync with the ethos of our programme. Nigeria is one of the hotbeds in Africa for entrepreneurs to thrive and innovate,” said Kuppulakshmi Krishnamoorthy, Global Head, Zoho for Startups.

Speaking on how Zoho Contracts will help businesses improve compliance with NDPL it said, “The Nigerian Data Protection Law came into force earlier this year. NDPL mandates all businesses to ensure that their contracts include provisions for data security and breach notifications, third-party vendors adhere to NDPA standards, and international contracts fulfill the criteria for cross-border transfer of personal data. In case of non-compliance, businesses risk the loss of consumer trust and potential legal action, apart from a potential fine of up to ₦10 million or 2% of annual gross revenue.

“With Zoho Contracts, businesses can create contract templates with new/revised clauses for NDPA compliance, use analytics to quickly identify existing contracts with a specific clause, anonymise counterparty data on request, and track and monitor their contractual obligations with reminder alerts.”

November 17, 2023