Category: Technology

  • Dedayo Adeloye sets record with 48-hour Ad-Va-Thon

    Dedayo Adeloye sets record with 48-hour Ad-Va-Thon

    A Nigerian, Dedayo Adeloye, has set a world record after completing a 48-hour Ad-va-thon challenge in Lagos.

    The Agege-born brand influencer juggled the roles of scriptwriter, director, voice actor, editor, producer, and actor for the challenge.

    Adeloye in the extraordinary quest, created six captivating TV commercials for different brands, all within the confines of a single location and in the shortest production time.

    For him, the record attempt, which is a solo endeavour, afforded him the opportunity to utilize every ounce of his creativity, skillset, and the minimal resources at his disposal to birth commercials that tell a story of ambition, perseverance, and unwavering spirit of Agege.

    Dedayo in his appreciation message, expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who stood by him, even in the face of uncertainties.

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    He said: ‘I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the amazing supporters and sponsors who stood as pillars of strength throughout this creative journey. Special thanks to JohnnieFits and Ajoje for their unwavering support, turning this endeavour into a collective achievement that made Agege proud on the global stage.’

    As the screens lit up with the results of his 48-hour Ad-va-thon, Dedayo’s TV commercials not only showcased the beauty of the commercials, from scripting to screen, but every frame told a story of resilience, courage, and the relentless pursuit of dreams against all odds.

    Elated by the achievement, Dedayo said: “Let this be an inspiration for others in Agege and beyond. This isn’t just a victory for one; it’s a triumph for all who dare to dream, break barriers, and create something extraordinary against all odds.”

    Okunriin – https://youtu.be/VAEh9CAVpds?si=LVr6WMFcyvZZEj9y

    JohnnieFits Fashion Brand Commercial – https://youtu.be/cwqFm0KPY4w?si=P0_qzsr-Cl7M6wzP

    Ajoje Commercial – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFNouJUwt4k 

    McVities Biscuit Commercial – https://youtu.be/7Q-cmZJ5Yr4?si=p3kDgjYaR425FeV3

    Kenwood Electronics Commercial – https://youtu.be/YpssSGHnoII?si=YGwRuepe-G3tEGkz

    Spotify Ads Commercial – https://youtu.be/5XMEvZIW8ig?si=uRrmY-iMLp2yPsbK

  • Honoring Data Science Leaders: Tech Trailblazer’s Data Innovation Excellence Award

    Honoring Data Science Leaders: Tech Trailblazer’s Data Innovation Excellence Award

    The Data Innovation Excellence Award, established by Tech Trailblazer in Nigeria, was created to honor the remarkable growth and impact of data science. This prestigious award shines a spotlight on exceptional talent, leadership, and contributions within data science and the broader tech community, celebrating individuals who embody excellence.

    Recognizing top data science leaders and executives, the award highlights those who have pioneered impactful, data-driven solutions. By celebrating these achievements, it inspires innovation, sets high standards, and encourages ongoing advancement within the industry.

    Reaching the top of one’s career is a rare achievement and winning an award like the Data Innovation Excellence is proof that a data scientist is one of the top leading data scientists impacting the technology landscape in Nigeria. 

    It signifies not just a personal victory but also the recognition of one’s contribution to advancing the industry. The award places recipients among an elite group of data driven innovators who have demonstrated exceptional talent and leadership in their fields.

    At the core of this esteemed award platform lies the distinguished members of the selection committee, each renowned for their expertise and outstanding contributions to the profession. 

    The selection committee comprises a panel of influential professionals, including:

    • Dr. Adaobi Eze – Chief Data Officer, Center for Technology Innovative Solutions
    • Prof. Ibrahim Lawal – Vice President of Data Science, Institute of Standards and Technology
    • Engr. Fatima Bello – Director of Strategy, Data Science and Development Initiative
    • Dr. Yusuf Mohammed – Director of Data Science, Lagos Innovations Board.
    • Dr. Zainab Ibrahim – Head of Data Innovation Research, Nigerian Institute of Technology and Design (NITD).

    From the pool of submissions, the selection committee identifies the top nominees whose accomplishments and influence in the industry are particularly notable. 

    These nominees encompass a variety of backgrounds and expertise within the field. Following this, a voting process is initiated, enabling committee members and other stakeholders to vote for the most deserving candidate.

    These seasoned data and techlonogy experts play a crucial role in carefully analyzing nominees and applicants, to select the most deserving recipient of the award from over 100 data scientists and professionals who were nominated for the award. 

    There are arguably about 100, 000 – 150, 000 data scientists and data professionals in Nigeria and this award is open to all annually through an application, nomination and voting process, only one individual emerges as winner in a particular year.

    The past awardees have been visionary individuals who have made notable contributions to the field of Data Science. This clearly affirms the heritage of excellence that the award seeks to establish. 

    Past recipients of this prestigious award for the past years include some of the top leading data scientists:

    • Babatunde Salaudeen – Head of Data science at Zenithbank (Winner of Data Innovation Excellence Award 2023) 
    • Segun Awale– Vice President, Data Analytics & Strategy at FinNova Solutions (Winner of Data Innovation Excellence Award 2022) 
    • Pius Olarinde – Head of Data Science at BlueSky Fintech (Winner of Data Innovation Excellence Award 2021) 
    • Blossom Nnyamah – Senior Data Scientist at Accessbank (Winner of Data Innovation Excellence Award 2020) 
    • Adewale Salau – Director of Data Strategic at AlphaEdge Analytics (Winner of Data Innovation Excellence Award 2019) 
    • Saliu Ola – Data Scientist at DataCore Technologies (Winner of Data Innovation Excellence Award 2018) 
    • Joshua Oluwatobi – Director of Data Science at Quantify Global (Winner of Data Innovation Excellence Award 2017) 
    • Tomide Adesewa – Senior Data Analytics at DataMinds Solutions (Winner of Data Innovation Excellence Award 2016) 
    • Musa Hammed – Chief Analytics Officer at InsightLabs (Winner of Data Innovation Excellence Award 2015) 

    These innovators have not only expanded the boundaries of  data but have also inspired others to strive for excellence in their respective fields.

    The Award ceremony has evolved into a highly anticipated event, garnering widespread national and regional recognition and attracting an illustrious array of dignitaries and industry luminaries.

    From its inaugural year, where it was graced by the presence of notable figures such as the Governor of Lagos State, HRH Sanusi Lamudo Sanusi : former governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, to subsequent editions attended by esteemed guests including the CEO of Big Cabal Media, Former CEO of Stanbic IBTC Bank, among others, the event has become an earmarked event of the industry calendar.

    The essence of the award ceremony has transcended mere recognition, paving the way for regional and cross-national collaborations with leading institutions such as the Africa Data Solutions Innovation Consortium. 

    Additionally, the event has secured sponsorship from prestigious organizations including Andela, Dangote, GTCO and others. These partnerships validate the widespread industry support and validation of the award’s significance within the data community, solidifying its reputation as a pinnacle of excellence in the field.

  • How Nigerian teen’s app caught the eye of Canadian FinTech

    How Nigerian teen’s app caught the eye of Canadian FinTech

    In a world where FinTech giants and banking institutions loom large, the story of an 18-year-old Nigerian prodigy, Pleasant Balogun, and his groundbreaking app, Scrim, shaking hands with Canadian FinTech powerhouse Chimoney, is nothing short of a modern-day David and Goliath tale.

    Pleasant Balogun, a teenager with a vision to simplify and democratize global payments, created Scrim—an app that allows users to send payments through social media handles and direct messages. This innovative idea, nurtured in the bustling tech hubs of Nigeria, caught the attention of Uchi Uchibeke, founder of Chimoney.

    Uchibeke, a former Shopify Engineer and patent inventor at Royal Bank of Canada, has been at the forefront of the AI revolution and global payments. His company, Chimoney, has become a beacon of innovation in the FinTech space, offering a robust API and infrastructure that power remittances, rewards, and payouts globally and enabling Businesses to pay anyone in the world using just the receivers Email or Phone Number.

    The acquisition of the Scrim App by Chimoney is not just a tale of two apps coming together. It’s a strategic move that underscores the potential of African ingenuity in the global tech landscape. The merger is a testament to Chimoney’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting emerging talents in the FinTech arena. 

    “For us, Scrim is not just an app. It’s a vision that aligns perfectly with Chimoney’s mission to unlock economic opportunities for everyone everywhere,” says Uchibeke.

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     “Pleasant Balogun’s ingenuity and Scrim’s unique capabilities are exactly what the FinTech world needs.”

    Chimoney’s API has been a game-changer, offering startups like Scrim and established businesses alike the tools to launch and scale their FinTech solutions rapidly. With a full end-to-end integration of Chimoney’s API on Scrim, Scrim is poised to offer more value to users by combining social Payment capabilities with the ability to earn, swap and transfer to 100+ countries, demonstrating the power of collaboration and technology in bridging the gap in global payment solutions.

    “The story here isn’t just about an acquisition; it’s about a shared vision to revolutionize the way the world handles payments. It’s a narrative that challenges traditional banking norms and opens up a realm of possibilities for entrepreneurs and developers worldwide.

    This merger is a clarion call to startups and developers looking to make their mark in the FinTech space. Chimoney’s infrastructure, combined with Scrim’s innovative approach, is a clear indication that the time to integrate and innovate is now.

    The potential for startups to leverage Chimoney’s API and launch their FinTech solutions is immense,” adds Uchibeke.

     “We’re not just building platforms; we’re build a global Payments Operating system to empower a new generation of entrepreneurs.”

    The story of Chimoney and Scrim has sent ripples through the investor community, generating interest and a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out). This merger highlights the untapped potential in the African FinTech scene and the lucrative opportunities that lie in innovative solutions like Scrim.

    As more investors turn their gaze towards Africa, Chimoney and Scrim stand as beacons of hope and innovation, paving the way for a new era in global payments.

    In conclusion, the union of Chimoney and Scrim is more than just a business transaction. It’s a narrative of hope, innovation, and the limitless possibilities when visionaries from different parts of the world come together. As the African tech scene continues to burgeon, stories like that of Pleasant Balogun and Uchi Uchibeke will undoubtedly inspire a new wave of entrepreneurs and developers, ready to leave their mark on the world.

  • Pedabo recounts progress in Nigeria, opts for global footprint

    Pedabo recounts progress in Nigeria, opts for global footprint

    Nigeria‘s premier accounting body, Kreston Pedabo, is expected to host a gathering of global industry leaders in the coming days to commemorate the remarkable achievements the organisation has made over the past 25 years.

    The milestone anniversary symposium, scheduled to take place in Lagos on the 16th of this month, comes on the heels of the Nigerian firm’s recent inclusion into the Kreston Global network.

    Established in 1998 by Ajibade Fashina and Albert Folorunsho, Pedabo has been unwavering in its commitment to delivering tailored solutions and advisory services, empowering both public and private sector companies to realise sustainable business development.

    Under the banner of “Surviving Decades: The Impacts of Building a Business on a Foundation of Excellence,” the Chief Executive Officer of Access Holding Plc, Herbert Wigwe is to deliver the keynote address at the event.

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    The panel discussion will feature a distinguished line-up of industry leaders, including Managing Director of Triumph Power & Gas Limited, Bolaji Ososami, Managing Director of Unified Payments Services Limited, Agada Apochi, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tomato Jos Farming and Processing Limited, Mira Mehta, Founder, Design Union Limited, Anthony Aihie, and Dr. Ola Brown, General Partner, HealthCap Africa. The event will be hosted at the Balmoral Convention Center, Federal Palace Hotel and Casino.

    Ajibade Fashina expressed his pride in the organisation’s journey, stating, “This is a defining moment for us as an organisation, and I am proud of the progress we have made so far. Our 25th anniversary offers us the opportunity to appreciate our progress, rethink, recalibrate, and re-strategise for the journey ahead. It also gives us the chance to appreciate the many people, especially our workforce, who have been playing remarkable roles in shaping the organisation.”

    Albert Folorunsho also shared his enthusiasm for the milestone, saying, “Our upcoming 25th anniversary is not only significant, but it also provides us with a moment to recommit ourselves to our mission and values. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact and drive our organisation forward.”

  • Tech entrepreneur Bello becomes best community builder on NAS.IO

    Tech entrepreneur Bello becomes best community builder on NAS.IO

    Nas.io, a leading Web3 community with over 84,719 online community builders worldwide, has named 25-year-old Nigerian Ahmed Bello as the first recipient of its awards from the West African region.

    From his neighbourhood in Nigeria to global recognition, the young entrepreneur and founder of E-Nigeria, a digital and social development community for people living in remote areas of Nigeria, aims to increase access to technology and digital services and also share insights on how to monetize using digital tools. 

    He has managed to manifest his vision into reality in 2021 by creating a small community on Telegram with just 50 members and then expanding to an overflow of over 10,000 by 2022. 

    He has been a major community collaborator from Nigeria, channelling digital services and supporting other young entrepreneurs on a global scale. 

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    The award, which came from the stables of prominent YouTuber and content creator Nuseir Yassin, known online primarily by his pseudonym Nas Daily, provides E-Nigeria the opportunity to further promote young talents while building potential across various sectors of the economy. 

    He said: “Our vision for E-Nigeria goes well beyond the numbers; our goal is to totally eradicate digital illiteracy while promoting entrepreneurship across all geopolitical zones in Nigeria.”

    Bello added Ahmed Bello is a community builder, digital media marketer, online entrepreneur, and founder of E-Nigeria. 

    He has big dreams for his remote communities and the people in his country. His grit and persistence have really shown how people can add value to others without being famous.

  • Excellence, dedication in ‘The Delborough’ Lagos second to none – Mrs Olajumoke Benson

    Excellence, dedication in ‘The Delborough’ Lagos second to none – Mrs Olajumoke Benson

    Mrs Olajumoke Benson, highly cerebral and serial entrepreneur wife of House of Representatives member, Hon Babajimi Adegoke Benson representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, has also joined other Board Members to say that the excellence and dedication demonstrated in The Delborough Lagos are second to none.

    The influential politician’s wife spoke during a press briefing session shortly after her inauguration into the  brand’s Board recently in Lagos.

    According to her,:”The excellence and the dedication is second to none! Everyone desiring best hotels in the world has to come here to have the feel”.

    The five-storey The Delborough Lagos with its elegant accommodations and sophisticated state-of-the-art luxury facilities is located at Plot 1502, Bishop Aboyade Cole Close, Opposite Krispy Kreme, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria.

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    The nine-member Board headed by His Royal Majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe CFR, mni Obi of Onitsha (Agbogidi), consists of: His Royal Majesty Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal (Abisogun II, Oniru of Iruland); Prof. Chief Mike A.A. Ozekhome SAN,OFR, FCIArb, PhD; Usman Alkali Baba CFR; Arc. Dns. Yemisi Suswam PhD, FNIA; Mrs Olajumoke Benson; H.E Dr. Valentine Ozigbo; Matt Aikhionbare, OON and Dr. Linus Idahosa.

  • BUA Group chairman, Deputy Speaker, Gov. Mohammed, Rufai Oseni for Igbere TV Leadership Excellence Award

    BUA Group chairman, Deputy Speaker, Gov. Mohammed, Rufai Oseni for Igbere TV Leadership Excellence Award

    The Chairman BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu, Governor of Bauchi state, Sen. Bala Mohammed, Arise TV senior anchor Rufai Oseni are among eminent Nigerians to be honoured at the forthcoming 5th edition of the 2023 Leadership Excellence (LEEX) Awards. 

    This is in recognition of their outstanding performance in dexterous administration, tremendous contribution to nation building and selfless service to humanity, a letter signed by the LOC secretary and chairman, Emeh James Anya and Prof. B. I Babafemi respectively said. 

    The Awards presentation dinner comes up Saturday at The Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton Abuja by 5pm.

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    It will have the former Senate Chief Whip, Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu as Chief Host; The Vice Chancellor University of Port Harcourt, Prof. Owunari Georgewill as Chairman; and the Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu as Keynote Speaker.

    LEEX Awards was proudly endorsed in 2020 by the African Union Economic Social and Cultural Council (AU-ECOSOCC) and in 2021 by the African Union African Film Institute (AU-AFI), the organisers said. 

    The event will be attended by key players in the political and corporate sectors of the country.

  • From Necessity to Comfort: How Electronics Shape African Daily Life

    From Necessity to Comfort: How Electronics Shape African Daily Life

    Electronics are an essential part of modern life, but they are not just a luxury or a convenience. For many people in Africa, electronics are a necessity that enables them to access education, health care, communication, entertainment, and more. In this blog post, we will explore how electronics shape African daily life, from the challenges they face to the solutions they offer.

    One of the main challenges that Africans face is the lack of reliable and affordable electricity. According to the World Bank, only 43% of the population in sub-Saharan Africa had access to electricity in 2019, compared to 90% in the rest of the world. This means that many people rely on alternative sources of power, such as solar panels, batteries, generators, and candles. However, these options are often expensive, inefficient, or unsafe.

    Another challenge is the limited availability and affordability of electronic devices and services. Many Africans still use basic phones or feature phones, which have limited functionality and connectivity. Smartphones are becoming more popular, but they are still out of reach for many people due to their high cost and data charges. Similarly, laptops and computers are scarce and expensive, especially in rural areas. Internet access is also limited by low coverage, slow speed, and high prices.

    Despite these challenges, electronics have a positive impact on African daily life in many ways. They enable people to access information and education, such as online courses, e-books, podcasts, and videos. They facilitate communication and socialization through social media, messaging apps, voice calls, and video calls. They also provide entertainment and leisure through music, games, movies, and TV shows.

    Moreover, electronics can improve the quality of life and well-being of Africans by offering solutions to various problems. For example, electronics can help improve health care by enabling telemedicine, remote diagnosis, digital records, and mobile health apps. They can also help improve agriculture by enabling precision farming, irrigation systems, weather forecasting, and market access. They can also help improve security by enabling surveillance cameras, alarm systems, biometric identification, and GPS tracking.

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    One of the companies that is committed to providing innovative and affordable electronic solutions for African consumers is LG Electronics. LG offers a range of products that cater to the needs and preferences of Africans, such as:

    LG NeoChef Microwave: This is a smart and versatile microwave that can cook food evenly and efficiently. It has a Smart Inverter technology that can adjust the power level and cooking time according to the food type and quantity. It also has a Healthy Fry function that can reduce the fat content of fried food by up to 72%. The LG NeoChef microwave has a sleek and minimalist design, with a tempered glass front and an LED lamp that illuminates the interior. It also has an antibacterial EasyClean coating that makes it easy to wipe off stains and residues.

    LG Dual Inverter Air Conditioner: This is an energy-efficient air conditioner that can save up to 70% of electricity consumption compared to conventional models. It also has a dual inverter compressor that can adjust the cooling capacity according to the room temperature, making it more comfortable and durable.

    LG Smart TV: This is a smart TV that can connect to the internet and other devices using artificial intelligence. It also has a voice control feature that can recognize natural language and commands, making it easier and more convenient to use.

    LG XBOOM Go Speaker: This is a portable speaker that can deliver powerful sound and long-lasting battery life. It also has a water-resistant design and a multi-color lighting feature that can create a festive atmosphere.

    LG Washing Machine: This is a durable and efficient washing machine that can clean your clothes and fabrics with ease. It has a Roller Jet Pulsator technology that creates more friction and improves the washing performance. It also has a Wind Jet Dry function that reduces the moisture in the tub and prevents mold and bacteria growth. The LG washing machine has a large capacity of 8 kg, which can handle heavy loads and bulky items. It also has a 3-step wash process that can remove tough stains and dirt.

    These are just some examples of how LG products can enhance the daily lives of Africans by offering them convenience, comfort, and quality. If you want to learn more about LG products and how they can suit your needs, visit lg.com/africa today.

  • SGORL trains youths on cybersecurity

    SGORL trains youths on cybersecurity

    The need for strong cybersecurity was the highlights as computer analysts and other experts spoke at an interactive training session organised by Sterling Global Oil Resources Ltd., (SGORL) for students of Computer Science, Yaba College of Technology, Yaba Lagos.

    At the training which took place at the Bon Voyage Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, the Chairman, Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Lagos State Chapter, Mr. Oladipupo M. Olakunle, said sophistication in cyber attacks and data breaches taking place on a daily basis, leading to heavy losses by big businesses makes strong cyber security more compelling.

    According to him, the internet has become an integral part of our lives and as more and more people across the world move towards online, the risk of cybercrime will continue to be amplified.

    He said: “With the advent of the ever-changing digital world, numerous cyberattacks and data breaches are taking place on a daily basis. Initiative like this enables students to gain significant perceptions and make them aware of the threats and risks.’’

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    He explained that cyber security is one of the most critical aspects in our lives due to the increasing usage of different digital platforms adding that understanding exposures, how common cyber attacks work, and how to prevent such attacks is essential to preventing breaches and attacks.

    Vice Chairperson, Nigeria Computer Society, Lagos State Chapter,
    Mrs. Funmilola Omojola said breaches do not exclude any user of the cyber space, adding that all users are exposed to various security risks.

    “Cyber threats are continually advancing, so it is important to get trained about the pros and cons of digitalisation in order to know how to fortify ourselves against cyber attacks”

    She said cyber attackers persist to manipulate gaps and introduce new threats and vulnerabilities, and commended SGORL for creating this initiative aimed to promoting a safe digital culture among the students, as part of its sustainable effort to establish a safer digital world and preaching the integration of cyber security best practices.

    Students from Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) were given the opportunity to present some of their projects relating to the latest cyber security trends.

  • How Kalu Joseph Ude is touching lives through technology

    How Kalu Joseph Ude is touching lives through technology

    The integration of technology into transportation has enhanced connectivity and convenience. Ride-sharing apps have revolutionized personal transportation, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.

    Flashride, a brainchild of the visionary Nigerian tech leader, Kalu Joseph Ude is adding value to lives in the digital technology sector with its innovative approach to transportation.

    The recognized leader in the tech space, has always been passionate about solving real-world problems. Recognizing the challenges Nigerians face with public transportation – inefficiency, unreliability, and overcrowding – Kalu Joseph Ude envisioned Flashride as a solution.

    Unknown to many, Flashride is a mobile app that connects passengers with independent drivers, offering a safe, convenient, and affordable alternative to traditional taxis and ride-hailing services. With features like real time tracking, flexible scheduling, cashless payments and others, the app makes lines easy for others.

    With its real time tracking, passengers can track their ride’s progress, ensuring safety and peace of mind.

    Flashride’s impact has been visible.The app has garnered a loyal user base who appreciate its reliability and ease of use. With a surge in ridership, Flashride is not only transforming individual commutes but also creating valuable job opportunities for drivers across Nigeria.

    Shedding light on what it means to be a Nigerian tech leader using Flashride as a case study, he said: ”Being a Nigerian tech leader means navigating a complex and dynamic environment with resilience and innovation. At Flashride, we harness local talent to develop solutions tailored to the unique challenges of Nigerian urban mobility.

    “Our platform not only improves transportation efficiency but also creates economic opportunities by empowering drivers and connecting communities. Leading in this space requires a deep understanding of local needs, a commitment to sustainable practices, and the agility to adapt to rapidly changing technological landscapes.’”