Category: Technology

  • Arewa Economic Forum commends Tinubu for retaining NDIC, NITDA heads

    Arewa Economic Forum commends Tinubu for retaining NDIC, NITDA heads

    The Arewa Economic Forum (AEF) on Wednesday commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decision to retain some of the best heads of agencies in the Finance and ICT sectors who are from the North.  

    At a briefing in Abuja, the chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Shehu Dandakata, hailed the President for retaining Bello Hassan of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) and Kashifu Inuwa of the National Informational Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

    The Chairman highlighted the importance of recognising and appointing competent and experienced technocrats from the Northern region to lead critical sectors of the economy.

    The AEF urged President Tinubu to remain steadfast in his commitment to keep the best performers and also appoint more capable individuals from the North to head strategic agencies.

    Read Also: NADIR hails ministerial nominee Tunji-Ojo, decries attack on NITDA DG

    The NDIC led by Hassan has been recognised locally and globally for its diligent efforts in repositioning insurance practice in the country.

    Under his leadership, NDIC conducted a review of the maximum deposit insurance coverage, aligning with international standards set by the International Association of Deposit Insurers (IADI).

    The MacArthur Foundation’s acknowledgment of the corporation’s efficient service delivery further also underscores Hassan’s adept management.

    NITDA, under Inuwa, has also successfully deployed 601 digital infrastructural facilities nationwide including Digital Economy Centers, e-Learning facilities, and various IT hubs.

    The NITDA boss has also ensured that the Computer Emergency Response and Readiness Centre (CERRC) was upgraded to enhance cybersecurity and protect federal institutions from cyber threats.

    Inuwa’s leadership saw the deployment of the National Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) for enhanced online security and the launch of Nigeria’s first digital Fabrication Laboratory (FabLab 1.0) to boost indigenous digital innovation.

  • Stellar Repair for Video: A Review of the Best Video Repair Software

    Stellar Repair for Video: A Review of the Best Video Repair Software

    In today’s digital age, videos play a pivotal role in capturing and reliving our most cherished moments. However, these precious memories can be easily marred by corruption or damage to video files. Thankfully, technology has brought us tools like Stellar Repair for Video, a comprehensive video repair software designed to salvage your damaged videos and restore them to their original glory. In this article, we will delve into the features, benefits, and user experience of Stellar Repair for Video, exploring why it stands out as one of the best video repair solutions available.

    Understanding Video File Corruption

    Video files are susceptible to corruption due to various factors such as improper storage, abrupt system shutdowns, virus infections, and even errors during the recording process. These corruptions can result in distorted visuals, audio desynchronization, or complete unplayability of the video. Such situations can be frustrating, especially when the video holds sentimental value.

    Introducing Stellar Repair for Video

    Stellar Repair for Video is a specialized software designed to address the challenges of video file corruption. Whether you’re dealing with a corrupted MP4, MOV, AVI, MKV, or any other popular video format, this tool aims to fix the issues and deliver a seamless playback experience. Let’s dive into the key features that make Stellar Repair for Video a standout choice:

    1. Multi-Format Support

    Stellar Repair for Video boasts an extensive range of supported video formats. This versatility ensures that no matter which format your corrupted video is in, the software is equipped to tackle the challenge.

    2. Comprehensive Repair

    The software employs advanced algorithms to scan and repair various types of video corruption issues. From pixelation and playback interruption to audio-video sync problems, Stellar Repair for Video aims to address a wide spectrum of problems.

    Read Also: ‘Key into advancement in technology’

    3. Preview Before Saving

    One notable feature is the ability to preview the repaired video before saving it. This ensures that you can assess the repair quality and confirm that the video has been restored to your satisfaction.

    4. Batch Repair

    For users dealing with multiple corrupted videos, the batch repair feature is a time-saving blessing. This feature enables you to repair multiple videos in one go, streamlining the process and boosting efficiency.

    5. User-Friendly Interface

    Stellar Repair for Video prides itself on its user-friendly interface. Navigating through the software’s features and initiating repairs is designed to be intuitive, making it accessible even for users with limited technical expertise.

    6. Advance Repair using Sample File

    When a video file is severely corrupt and is not playable even after first repair. The software prompts an additional feature of Advance Repair which uses a Sample File. A sample file is a playable video captured using the same device as of the corrupt videos. It doesn’t matter if the sample files are old but it should be shot from the same device. The Stellar Repair for Video will process the missing data in the corrupt video file to repair and make them playable.

    7. Stellar Customer Support

    Stellar, the company behind the software, is known for its exceptional customer support. If you encounter any issues or have questions, their support team is readily available to assist you.

    Putting Stellar Repair for Video to the Test

    To truly evaluate the effectiveness of Stellar Repair for Video, we conducted a hands-on test using a variety of corrupted video files. The following is an overview of our experience with the software:

    1. Installation and Setup: The installation process was straightforward, and the software was up and running within minutes. The user interface was clean and well-organized.

    2. Scanning and Repairing: We selected a few corrupted videos of different formats for repair. The scanning process was relatively quick, and the software accurately identified the corruption issues.

    3. Preview and Quality Check: After repairs were made, the software allowed us to preview the repaired videos. The videos played smoothly, and the visual and audio quality appeared to be restored.

    4. Advance Repair: Some of the videos were severely corrupt where the software prompted for an advance repair by using a playable sample file. It took some time to repair the severely corrupt video but the results were pretty surprising as the corrupt video files got restored to its original form. We appreciated the ability of the software to repair severely corrupt videos.

    5. Batch Repair: Testing the batch repair feature, we added multiple videos for repair. The software efficiently processed all the videos and saved them in the specified location.

    6. Customer Support: As part of our evaluation, we reached out to Stellar’s customer support with a query. We received a prompt and helpful response, showcasing the company’s dedication to assisting users.

    Conclusion

    In a world where videos hold immense sentimental value, encountering corruption issues can be disheartening. This is where stellar repair for video shines as a reliable solution. Its impressive range of features, user-friendly interface, and efficient repair capabilities make it a standout choice for those seeking to salvage their cherished videos. While no software can guarantee a 100% success rate in repairing every type of video corruption, Stellar Repair for Video certainly raises the bar with its comprehensive approach and advanced algorithms.

    Whether you’re a professional videographer, a casual content creator, or an individual looking to rescue valuable memories, Stellar Repair for Video offers a promising solution to the often daunting challenge of video file corruption. With its ability to repair a multitude of formats and its commitment to delivering quality results, this software can be a game-changer in your video repair journey.

  • How to Choose the Best South African Casino

    How to Choose the Best South African Casino

    Looking for the finest South African casino experience? Navigating the array of options can be overwhelming. Fear not, as we’re here to guide you through the process. From thrilling games to top-notch security, we’ve got your back. Let’s delve into the key factors that’ll help you pick the perfect casino for your gaming journey.

    Regulation and reputation

    Some say online casino games are not available in South Africa. This is not entirely true, though. While the game variety of the gaming outlets in the country is nowhere near that of offshore operators, the South African online casinos integrated with licensed betting outlets do offer players access to casino games – some even to live dealer games and progressive jackpots.

    The ideal online casino for South Africans is regulated, licensed, and reputable. There are already more than enough casino review websites where you can read real user opinions, and there are also social media groups where these are discussed. This will help you find gaming options that have both the regulation and the reputation of the best South African casino.

    Show me the money

    At online casinos, money is an important aspect. You’ll want to make deposits and withdraw your winning, preferably in Rands, and using the methods you prefer. So, you’ll need a local operator with a wide range of payment methods, covering everything from OTT vouchers to various EFTs and bank transfers.

    Another thing to look at when you choose an online casino is the bonus it offers. The amount is not the most important aspect, though – don’t fall for bonuses that sound too good to be true. Choose an operator with a common sense bonus instead that has clear terms and conditions, and friendly playthrough requirements.

    Read Also: What is the economic benefit of a casino for local businesses?

    It’s all about the games

    Finally, don’t forget about the fun part: the games. If you are looking for your first online casino or you want to diversify your gaming, try to find one with the largest possible game variety from the most diverse pool of providers.

    There are dozens of casino game developers out there, launching hundreds of new games every year. To find the best South African casino, you’ll need to look for one with the most game developers among its partners, and the largest game library. This way you’ll always have something new to try, and maybe even more opportunities to win. And if not, you’ll still have fun trying.

    Now armed with the essentials, finding your ideal South African casino is a breeze. Remember, balance matters – seek variety, safety, and excitement. Make sure to check the casino’s reputation before you register an account. Look at the available payment methods and how long it takes for a withdrawal to reach your pockets. And make sure it has all the games you want to play.

    Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, the best casino fit for you is just a few clicks away.

  • Agency announces 10th anniversary campaign

    Agency announces 10th anniversary campaign

    Djembe Consultants (Djembe), an award-winning consultancy focusing on the African and Middle Eastern (MEA) regions, has announced a six-month campaign that will celebrate its 10th year anniversary.  

    Chief Executive Officer, Mitchell Prather, said the campaign will showcase a diverse team and client partners, who together have delivered innovative communication programmes in the MEA region and on the global stage.     

    According to him, since its inception, Djembe has effectively brought together a unique combination of home-grown talent from across the MEA region and a team of multi-disciplinary international communications experts.  

    ‘’The consultancy’s multinational approach, which combines local insights with global best practices, has seen it emerge as a trusted advisor to local, regional, and global organizations, helping them achieve their full potential within the MEA region and internationally.        

    ‘’This diverse client mix has enabled the Djembe team to support strategic communications and reputation management projects over the past ten years in 36 African and 13 MENA countries – in addition to global outreach in key international markets in the Americas, Asia, and Europe.    

    ‘’During the second half of 2023, Djembe will showcase a decade’s worth of success in supporting projects that have amplified a narrative of opportunity, growth, inclusion, and innovation. The celebratory campaign will highlight Djembe’s unique presence within the innovation ecosystem, showcasing the Consultancy’s work as a catalyst for growth and entrepreneurial opportunity throughout the ecosystem and across multiple industry sectors in the MEA region.      

    Prather commented on the Consultancy’s 10th anniversary: “As Djembe Consultants celebrates our 10-year anniversary, we have a great opportunity to reflect on our successes. This is a major milestone and a testament to the strength of our client offering and the extremely high calibre of the Djembe team.

    Through our deep-rooted presence across Africa and the Middle East, we have conducted extensive incubator and accelerator program workshops, mentored hundreds of start-ups and innovators, and successfully secured over three million dollars of funding for MEA start-ups. Furthermore, the Djembe team has supported multi-billion dollar client commitments to enhance trade finance and socioeconomic development.”   

    In addition to reflecting on its successes, Djembe will use its tenth anniversary to look to the future and set out its plans for the next ten years. The firm continues to secure an ever-greater breadth of mandates from MENA-based organizations, leaving it well-positioned to continue supporting the region’s socioeconomic development through its work with a rich cross-section of clients in critical economic growth sectors while advancing a social development agenda.   

    From SMEs to trade finance and development corporations, sovereign wealth funds, promising start-ups, and innovators, the strong appeal of Djembe’s determined and enthusiastic approach to developing and executing communication programs has been incredible: Djembe was recently re-selected as the agency of record for the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation, which is a five-year client relationship.

    Over the past five years, Djembe has worked to promote the Zayed Sustainability Prize in Africa and its reach has been extended to promote the prize across the Middle East. 

    Djembe’s expertise has been utilized in AfCFTA and AML campaigns, investment funding, product launches, trade finance and development initiatives, and SME accelerator programmes as a well-respected advisory and award-winning communications firm in the years preceding COVID-19, Djembe has worked closely with multiple organizations to support their emergence from the effects of the pandemic.     

    Prather explained: “As soon as the pandemic began to unfold, Djembe leveraged our extensive network to join forces with organizations large and small, public and private, to focus on helping communities receive the benefits emanating from meeting the UN Sustainability Development Goals. 

    “Djembe’s extensive capabilities extend beyond supporting client initiatives to advancing a social development agenda by addressing the digital divide, increasing financial know-how, encouraging the take-up of green initiatives, promoting inclusivity, and advocating rural community development. We are delighted to be able to showcase much of this work and results during our 10-year celebrations in the second half of this year.”

    Focusing on the African and Middle Eastern (MEA) regions has announced a six-month campaign that will celebrate the Consultancy’s 10-year anniversary. 

    Its CEO Mitchell Prather said the campaign will showcase a diverse team and client partners, who together have delivered innovative communication programmes in the MEA region and on the global stage.     

    Since its inception, Djembe has effectively brought together a unique combination of home-grown talent from across the MEA region and a team of multi-disciplinary international communications experts.  

    The consultancy’s multinational approach, which combines local insights with global best practices, has seen it emerge as a trusted advisor to local, regional, and global organizations, helping them achieve their full potential within the MEA region and internationally.       

    This diverse client mix has enabled the Djembe team to support strategic communications and reputation management projects over the past ten years in 36 African and 13 MENA countries – in addition to global outreach in key international markets in the Americas, Asia, and Europe.    

    During the second half of 2023, Djembe will showcase a decade’s worth of success in supporting projects that have amplified a narrative of opportunity, growth, inclusion, and innovation.

    The celebratory campaign will highlight Djembe’s unique presence within the innovation ecosystem, showcasing the Consultancy’s work as a catalyst for growth and entrepreneurial opportunity throughout the ecosystem and across multiple industry sectors in the MEA region.    

    Prather commented on the Consultancy’s 10th anniversary: “As Djembe Consultants celebrates our 10-year anniversary, we have a great opportunity to reflect on our successes. This is a major milestone and a testament to the strength of our client offering and the extremely high calibre of the Djembe team. Through our deep-rooted presence across Africa and the Middle East, we have conducted extensive incubator and accelerator program workshops, mentored hundreds of start-ups and innovators, and successfully secured over three million dollars of funding for MEA start-ups. Furthermore, the Djembe team has supported multi-billion dollar client commitments to enhance trade finance and socioeconomic development.”   

    In addition to reflecting on its successes, Djembe will use its tenth anniversary to look to the future and set out its plans for the next ten years. The firm continues to secure an ever-greater breadth of mandates from MENA-based organizations, leaving it well-positioned to continue supporting the region’s socioeconomic development through its work with a rich cross-section of clients in critical economic growth sectors while advancing a social development agenda.   

    Read Also: Agency apologises to regulator over ‘All Eyes On The Judiciary’ advert

    From SMEs to trade finance and development corporations, sovereign wealth funds, promising start-ups, and innovators, the strong appeal of Djembe’s determined and enthusiastic approach to developing and executing communication programmes has been incredible: Djembe was recently re-selected as the agency of record for the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation, which is a five-year client relationship.

    Over the past five years, Djembe has worked to promote the Zayed Sustainability Prize in Africa, and its reach has been extended to promote the prize across the Middle East. Djembe’s expertise has been utilised in AfCFTA and AML campaigns, investment funding, product launches, trade finance and development initiatives, and SME accelerator programmes as a well-respected advisory and award-winning communications firm in the years preceding COVID-19, Djembe has worked closely with multiple organisations to support their emergence from the effects of the pandemic.     

    Prather explained: “As soon as the pandemic began to unfold, Djembe leveraged our extensive network to join forces with organizations large and small, public and private, to focus on helping communities receive the benefits emanating from meeting the UN Sustainability Development Goals.  

    Djembe’s extensive capabilities extend beyond supporting client initiatives to advancing a social development agenda by addressing the digital divide, increasing financial know-how, encouraging the take-up of green initiatives, promoting inclusivity, and advocating rural community development. We are delighted to be able to showcase much of this work and results during our 10-year celebrations in the second half of this year.”

  • How to generate AI photos using your smartphone

    How to generate AI photos using your smartphone

    • By Akanimoh Asuquo

    The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) photographs has greeted the world with shock.

    Some believe that it has reduced the cost of having to visit a physical photo studio every time to book a session with a photographer.

    Photographers on the other hand maintain that AI cannot cover a wedding, birthday party, or burial, among other human interest events.

    Whatever the case is, millions across the globe have keyed in to make beautiful and handsome images of themselves that help boost their personalities and general online image branding using this innovation.

    While some make their AI photographs with just their smartphone or laptop with a steady Internet connection, others have continuously paid handsomely to have these beautiful photos.

    In this article, I want to show you how you can make your AI photos by yourself without having to pay anyone a dime.

    Read Also: Google announces ‘AI first Accelerator Program’ for African startups

    However, note that it is not free as you’ll have to make certain weekly or monthly subscriptions to enable you to activate the service.

    Below are the steps to making your beautiful Ai photos by yourself:

    1. Download the App: The first step to making your AI photos is to download and install the application on your phone. So, go to Play-Store or IOS store for iPhone users and download the application.

    You must understand that there are different AI apps. For instance, we have Remini, among others.

    So, download any of your choices. After downloading, install the application.

    2. After installing, you’ll be required to fill in what service you want the app to perform for you. The app does more than generate AI photos.

    For instance:

    (a) Do you want to use the app to blur your already existing photos?

    (b) Do you want to use it to revive your old photos taken years ago?

    (c) There’s also a question if you want to use the app to generate AI photos, among others.

    Please click the option that has my (c) question – AI photos.

    3. After that is done, you’ll be required to subscribe for either weekly, monthly or unlimited.

    I take that you already know what a weekly or monthly subscription means. So, let me explain only that of unlimited subscription. If you’re picking an unlimited subscription package, it means that you’ll subscribe for life. You will not be required to subscribe again.

    You can use it the way you want, unlike the other two packages where you’ll be required to renew your subscription after a week or month as the case may be.

    PS: Understand that you can only use your ATM Master card for the subscription. That’s the only card that’s accepted.

    4. After the subscription is done, you’ll be required to pick your gender – male or female.

    5. Once you’ve picked your gender, you’re moving closer to generating your photos. You’ll be asked to upload from your gallery, eight (8) of your already existing photos – preferably, a selfie or portrait.

    The purpose of these photos is primarily to use your face in whatever style Ai wishes to give you.

    6. After that is set, you will also be asked to pick from different styles, and backgrounds, a model photo.

    What a model photo means is, a photo, background or environment you’ll love your about-to-be-generated photo to look like.

    Once you’ve picked that, with your Internet connection, give Ai a few minutes and your photos are set.

    Download them to your gallery for use.

    PS: Note that you can only generate Ai photos for six people daily. Once you’ve completed six, you’ll have to wait for the following day.

  • NEOFEST: Neo Music announces music festival in Lagos

    NEOFEST: Neo Music announces music festival in Lagos

    NeoFest, the highly anticipated inaugural R&B and Alté music festival, is set to take place on the picturesque shores of Landmark Beach Lagos on 22 December 2023. 

    For the first time ever, music enthusiasts across the globe will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the soulful rhythms of R&B and the vibrant vibes of Alté, all in one spectacular event in Nigeria.

    Neo Fest sets the stage for an unforgettable celebration of musical diversity, showcasing top-tier DJs, extraordinary performers, and mesmerising dancers across multiple stages. 

    The festival aims to be a transformative event that will redefine the cultural fabric of the Lagos entertainment scene. 

    As the first R&B and Alté festival in the city, it serves as a platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their talents and push the boundaries of music in Nigeria.

    Read Also: Film Festival targets culture, unity

    The festival’s dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the music industry is at the core of its mission, paving the way for a more vibrant and inclusive future for Lagos’s music culture. 

    With artistes from within and outside the country, this unwavering dedication serves as a cornerstone for the festival’s mission, which is to create a more vibrant and all-encompassing future for both the creators and the enthusiasts.

    The event will be an all-day extravaganza, captivating attendees on a journey of rhythm and emotion. Beyond the music, festival-goers can indulge in a myriad of activities and amenities, exploring the sprawling grounds filled with vendors offering delectable treats, unique crafts, and festival merch. 

    This immersive experience aims to create a space where music enthusiasts can unite to celebrate the power of creativity, unity, and cultural expression.

    Prepare to lose yourself in the magic of Neo Fest at Landmark Beach Lagos! Tickets are live and also available on the Landmark Citizen app for Lagos residents.

  • Google announces ‘AI first Accelerator Program’ for African startups

    Google announces ‘AI first Accelerator Program’ for African startups

    Tech giant, Google has announced the “Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First”, an initiative aimed at supporting African startups looking to use artificial intelligence to solve local challenges.

    This programme recognises the transformative role that AI is playing across the world, innovating industries and reimagining the realms of possibilities.

    It also highlights the significant contributions of African startups in addressing some of the region’s most pressing challenges through the use of AI.

    The ‘AI First’ program is aimed at supporting startups keen on delving into AI’s possibilities. It draws learnings from past initiatives such as the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa, The Google for Startups Black Founders Fund, and The Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders, the primary aspiration remains consistent: to support and highlight African-driven solutions.

    Read Also: Shettima lauds Google’s N1.2b support for govt’s 1m jobs

    Applications for the 10-week equity-free accelerator are now open, inviting startups up to the series A stage based in Africa or building Africa-centric solutions with AI and machine learning. Participants will benefit from access to Google’s AI expertise, and technical resources including up to $350k in Google Cloud Credits, mentorship from seasoned AI professionals, and invaluable networking opportunities.

    Speaking about the initiative, Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa, remarked, “Africa’s tech landscape is vibrant and ever-evolving. It’s inspiring to see African startups not only harnessing AI to address our unique challenges but also setting benchmarks for the world.

    ‘AI First’ is more than a program; it’s a testament to our belief in the vision of these startups, ensuring they have the support and guidance they need to realise their full potential.

    Since its inception in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa program has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries. Collectively, these startups have raised over $263 million in funding and created over 2,800 direct job opportunities in the region.

    Startups are invited to apply by September 6, 2023. For more details and to submit applications, please visit g.co/acceleratorafrica.

  • International Payments App LemFi launches in the USA

    International Payments App LemFi launches in the USA

    LemFi, a leading fintech company specialising in international payments for everyone, proudly announces its official launch in the United States. Building on its recent success as a licensed International Money Transfer Operator through its subsidiary RightCard Payments Limited by the Central Bank of Nigeria, LemFi is excited to bring its innovative digital money transfer services to customers in the American market.

    The United States of America has long been a sought-after destination for Africans, particularly Nigerians seeking diverse living opportunities. Since 2015, Nigerian immigrants have accounted for over 0.6% of the overall foreign-born population in the United States, making it one of the largest single sources of African migration.

    LemFi stands out as a prominent force in the African fintech landscape, experiencing impressive growth and transformation with invaluable support from distinguished venture capital partners like Zrosk, Ventures Platform Fund, and Microtraction. This collaboration has fueled LemFi’s innovation drive and global expansion of its international payments services. With a shared vision of providing secure and accessible financial solutions, LemFi’s USA launch marks a significant milestone. Kola Aina, a Partner at Ventures Platform Fund, underscores the importance of Nigeria’s Diaspora remittances in mitigating foreign exchange scarcity and maintaining the nation’s forex reserves. In light of this, he expresses pride in LemFi’s seamless execution and the empowerment it offers African diasporans. Aina states, “We are very proud of the progress LemFi has made in executing flawlessly and offering a platform that empowers African diasporans to maintain their financial and non-financial ties with Nigeria and the rest of Africa. LemFi truly unlocks opportunities for millions.”

    With the US launch, LemFi enables individuals in the United States to experience the convenience, speed, security, and affordability the company offers, making sending money to friends and family back home effortless. LemFi aims to provide secure, efficient, and affordable money transfer services. As an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) licensed by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and a registered Money Service Business (MSB) with Canada’s Financial Transactions and Report Analysis Centre, LemFi upholds the highest standards of financial compliance. In the United States of America, LemFi operates as a Financial Technology company registered under the name “Lemonade Two.”

    LemFi’s user-friendly platform, with competitive exchange rates and fast transactions, has made it a preferred choice for thousands of customers in the United Kingdom and Canada. Commenting on the US launch, LemFi’s Country Manager, Dolapo Omotoso, expressed, “We are thrilled to expand our services to the United States and provide Americans with a reliable solution for their international payments. Our vision at LemFi is deeply rooted in empowering individuals, bridging distances, and fostering international payments. With the official launch of LemFi in the United States, we are driven to make a meaningful impact in the lives of millions, connecting loved ones and unlocking new opportunities.

    For more information and updates on LemFi’s services, please visit our website at www.lemfi.com and join us on this exciting journey. Stay connected with the latest news and developments by following us on:

    Facebook: UseLemfi

    Instagram: @UseLemfi

    Twitter: @UseLemfi

    Email: support@lemfi.com

  • Why Has Twitter Been Rebranded to X?

    Why Has Twitter Been Rebranded to X?


    A lot has been going on in the world of social media over the last month or so. Threads, Twitter’s biggest competitor, was launched, causing Elon Musk to threaten to sue Zuckerberg (the CEO of Meta, the company that owns Threads).

    Musk has now decided to completely rebrand, getting rid of Twitter’s signature blue bird and instead calling itself “X”.

    But why has he done so – and what does it mean for the social media of the future? We’ll dig into it in this article!

    Twitter to X: what actually happened?

    Elon Musk bought Twitter for $44 billion in April 2022.

    He then made a few changes to the platform, including introducing a paid subscription (Twitter Blue) to access premium features.

    Read Also: How to get verified, earn money on Twitter

    Twitter users have reported that the platform has felt increasingly toxic since Musk took it over, with platforms reporting how easy it is to “freely spread fake news”.

    There’s also been a change that limited how much users could see on Twitter for free – when people started to see a message saying “rate limit exceeded”, they’d ran out of their free usage.

    But the biggest shake up has been the name change and rebranding.

    Instead of the white bird on a light blue background, which has been the logo for 17 years, the branding is now a black “X” with a white stripe down the middle.

    The change was made on July 24th 2023, when a giant X was also installed on the company’s headquarters.

    Everything from the shakeup of the company to the giant X itself has caused controversy. The giant flashing X has been cause for complaint due to its intrusive lights, and on inspection it’s thought that it might violate permitting rules – Twitter representatives didn’t allow authorities to take a look at the logo!

    Add that to growing resentment about the amount of fake news on Twitter, along with the necessity to have paid-for platforms to spend any real time on the app, and it’s not surprising that the whole world’s watching Musk to see what he’ll do next!

    Why X?

    Officially, Musk has said that the name’s changed because “Twitter was acquired by X Corp both to ensure freedom of speech and as an accelerant for X, the everything app.” (tweeted by Elon Musk).

    In fact, it’s been reported that he wants the platform to change significantly, and become a “WeChat for the West”. WeChat is a Chinese app that’s most well-known for its messaging feature – but also boats social media, payments, food deliveries, transport tickets and much more. It’s used by 827.2 million people in China – which is 58.9% of the population.

    Elon Musk has long had a connection with the letter X – here are just some of the businesses (and people!) he’s named after the letter:

    • PayPal, Elon Musk’s initial startup, was called X.com
    • An artificial intelligence app that he named xAI
    • Tesla Model X
    • SpaceX
    • His son – who is named X Æ A-Xii, which is apparently pronounced “X”

    The threat of Threads

    It’s hard to ignore the timeliness of this rebrand. Threads, which is X’s only serious competitor, launched on 5th July 2023 and showcased a very similar user experience.

    Threads is owned by Meta, the same company who owns Instagram and Facebook, and the app was praised for how easy it was to sign up via Instagram in its first days.

    There was a lot of talk of Threads being a “less toxic” version of Twitter, with some people who were known for false claims even being targeted; the app recommended against following people who had been spreading fake news on Twitter and other platforms.

    However, engagement of Threads has fallen 70% since its peak on the 7th July, and it’s unsure whether it’ll remain a long-term rival of Twitter (or X).

    Other threats to X

    Obviously, Threads could be a real threat, if it regains some of its lost retention – especially because many millennials have said that they’ve enjoyed the Threads app more.

    But that’s not the only concern for X.

    Indonesia has already banned the app due to the domain previously being used for pornographic and gambling uses (casino games and other forms of gambling are generally illegal across the country).

    If other nations follow – there are plenty where pornography and gambling are equally illegal – X could fail to garner the global real-time social media hold that it desires.

    Plus, Twitter’s been losing users over the last couple of years, with many reporting the toxic culture to be a reason why they’ve given up on the app. 

    Conclusion

    As of now, the future of Twitter, X and Threads is looking uncertain.

    Will X become the new WeChat? Will Threads (and Zuckerberg) take over? Will Musk manage to sue Meta?

    It’s hard to know what the tech billionaires’ next moves will be, but it’s certain that a lot will change in the next few years.

  • The silent force driving Nigeria’s tech innovation

    The silent force driving Nigeria’s tech innovation

    In a landscape teeming with tech startups, developer bootcamps, and digital policy roundtables, one name keeps surfacing quietly among Nigeria’s most respected technology professionals: the Digital Innovation Assembly (DIA). 

    You won’t find loud campaigns or open calls for membership. That’s because the Assembly isn’t structured like most tech communities. It’s not open to all and that’s exactly the point.

    The DIA is often referred to within industry circles as a sort of “inner chamber” for individuals whose work has demonstrably shaped Nigeria’s digital future. From financial systems architects to artificial intelligence researchers, its members represent the top tier of technology leadership across sectors. 

    Whether it’s in banking, health, public infrastructure, or mobility, those admitted into the Assembly are known to have moved the needle through scale, influence, or breakthrough outcomes.

    But what sets the DIA apart isn’t just the caliber of its members. It’s how they’re selected. There’s no application form. No self-nomination process. Prospective members are identified through referrals and then quietly vetted not just by one person, but by a panel of senior technology experts drawn from different sectors of the industry. 

    These are people who understand what real impact looks like. They’re not impressed by titles or buzzwords. They look for measurable results, systems that work, and contributions that have influenced how people live, work, or interact with digital tools in Nigeria.

    One member, who asked to remain anonymous due to the Assembly’s low-profile culture, shared that the evaluation process involved multiple conversations and case-based reviews of previous work. 

    “They wanted to know the actual problem I solved and who it affected,” he said. “It wasn’t about building flashy apps, it was about long-term value.”

    Read Also: Ventures platform launches Nigeria’s full service tech innovation hub

    The DIA was formed as an initiative to create an informed, multi-disciplinary coalition of innovators and policy contributors. Over time, it has grown into a trusted advisory circle for public sector initiatives and private sector scale-ups alike. Its collective voice has helped shape national digital strategies, guide ethical technology deployments, and offer mentorship to rising talents in universities and accelerators across the country.

    Members of the Assembly include CTOs of top financial institutions, senior engineers at global tech companies, founders of high-growth startups, and consultants embedded in government transformation teams. But even with its growing influence, the association has deliberately stayed out of the limelight, opting instead for substance over spectacle.

    To many in the know, being invited into the DIA isn’t just a badge of honor it’s an acknowledgment that your work holds national relevance. It’s a signal that you’re not only building technology, but building the future.