Category: Technology

  • NLNG, Seplat to bag 2021 AfriSAFE awards

    NLNG, Seplat to bag 2021 AfriSAFE awards

    The Africa Safety Awards for Excellence (AfriSAFE) is set to honour Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) and Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc among other top organisations in Africa for their commitment to workplace safety and environmental sustainability in their operations.

    Chief Executive Officer of AfriSAFE, Femi Da-Silva said this in a statement in Lagos on Sunday.

    Da-silva said that NLNG has been nominated in the AfriSAFE CSR Award of the Year category and Seplat in the Merit Award category.

    According to him, Cadbury-Mondelez International, First Bank, Ikeja Electric, Eko DISCO, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Cummins West Africa, Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group, were other leading organisations nominated in various corporate categories of the prestigious award.

    Read Also: Seplat Energy JV Pearls Quiz rewards schools in Edo, Delta states

    He said: “These organisations have in one way or the other displayed exemplary commitment to the protection of their staff and contractors and impacting their operating environments positively.

    “They deserve to be honoured to serve as impetus for other organisations to take workplace safety and wellbeing more seriously.”

    Da-silva further disclosed that various eminent personalities would also be honoured at the award event scheduled for November 12 in Lagos.

    “Chairman, BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu and Former CEO Nigeria LNG , Tony Attah are expected to be honoured on the night,” he said.

    He noted that the award event would be hosted by comedian, Seyi Law.

  • 200 brands to experience facelift with BYB IV

    200 brands to experience facelift with BYB IV

    About 200 participating entrepreneurs are set to discover insights to leverage on the social media at the fourth edition of the Boost Your Business Using Social Media Edition IV training.

    The training session -scheduled to hold on Thursday, October 21 at Funcity in Ikorodu Garage- is powered by the fast-rising public relations organization, Nixxhash Communications.

    Not less than 10 experts will be enlightening participants on the theme, ‘Reskilling and up skilling through social media’ through topics bordering on storytelling, sustainability and scaling up business.

    Babatunde Enitan, the executive director of Tenitan Tech; Arinola Okeowo, CEO of Ultra Signatures; Michelle Edoreh, creative director of Hans & Gaby will be present as facilitators at the event.

    Other coaches who will be present are: Engr. Oduwa Agboneni, CEO of Nenis Autocare; Olumide Idowu from International Climate Change Development Initiative; Adebisi Odeleye, Founder of Moore Organics; Barr ‘Jumoke Awe, CEO of Octo Group; Adegoke Kazeem, Senior Partner at Compliance Tracker & Trainers, and Deen Sanwoola, CEO of Neighbours Technologies Ltd

    The Creative Director of Nixxhash Communications, Denike Fagbemi, praised business owners in Nigeria for standing against all odds to make their business thrive despite the effect of the pandemic and gaining relevance in the digital world.

    She said: “During the Covid 19 pandemic, a lot of businesses felt they were going to sink but through time, they were able to find a new strategy to leverage on and bounce back even better than before.”

    “A lot of businesses have found reasons to go online and get their business out there as they made use of social media, online space to give a reach to their businesses to make more sales.”

    “This event is more like a re- endorsement as a lot of business owners over time are shying away from the use of social media but this event is a confirmation that social media has come to stay, it is either business is online or not alive”, she added.

    Solomon Archibong, who will be present as a facilitator at the event, he revealed that entrepreneurs in Nigeria need to identify the service they’re rendering to make headway.

    He said: “Most businesses suffer for lack of understanding their core business, the problem they are solving, their customers and ways to monetize their services and products”

    Mr. Solomon, a sales activation expert, who described social media as a “tool to help businesses reach their target market”, bemoaned the minimal exploitation of what it can offer in Nigeria’s economic development.

    “Only a few businesses are currently using social media to the maximum. Our focus will therefore be to help them understand what amount of marketing can get them the result they seek through the social media.”

    Another facilitator, Kehinde Olofintuyi, emphasised the benefit of network building, an opportunity the event will provide for entrepreneurs.

    READ ALSO: ‘We’re cementing our brand outside Nigeria’s shores’

    He said, “As business owners, it is imperative to note that your network determines your net worth.”

    “This event should serve as an opportunity to meet other entrepreneurs and share ideas that can help boost businesses.”

    Mr. Kehinde, who is the Head of Digital Strategy for the digital marketplace Adspace. ng, urged participants to garner much experience and insights as he stated that the facilitators will provide impactful sessions that will be beneficial to their business.

    He said: “The event is so promising, merely looking at the facilitators and the undiluted impact-driven sessions.”

    “I employ participants to be open-minded and as much as possible, learn from the expertise and experience of the facilitators relative to their business niche.”

    Mrs. Fagbemi, who is the convener of the event, urged business owners to “master the skills of storytelling and copywriting”, an action she described as key to sales turnout and household brand name establishment.

    “Everyone is trying to build a business that will outlive them and that is why we are bringing onboard people that have been in business for a while and are thriving and stand the test of time likewise, building a household name that will outlive them.”

    She said the session will feature a lawyer, IT professional, sales automation expert, an account, and task persons among the facilitators as they are needed to scale up businesses.

    Also, there will be a mini-exhibition and stores have been made available for participants who want to display their services.

    She announced that participants will also find value for time.

  • Schneider electric tops 50 global employers best

    Schneider electric tops 50 global employers best

    Leading digital transformation, energy management and automation company, Schneider Electric, has been recognised by Universum as among the top 50 global employers.

    The company, for the first time, ranks as 24th most attractive employer for engineering students.

    Universum, a global employer branding company, conducts the world’s largest research study on talent career expectations. Each year, the company carries out its annual survey of engineering students from the world’s 10 largest economies.

    Reacting to the assessment, Senior Vice President, Talent and Diversity for Schneider Electric, Tina Mylon while expressing delight at the result, noted that the company is passionate about granting students early career boost and providing them an opportunity to work with the organization.

    “We’re proud to be included in the Top-25 for the World’s Most Attractive Employers by Universum. It’s meaningful to see how the 200,000+ engineering students view Schneider Electric, especially when it comes to work and life balance. We love giving students and early career talent opportunities to get involved with our organization and we’re delighted to be recognized as an employer of choice,” she stated.

  • MultiChoice CEO elected BON chairman

    Our Reporter 

    Chief Executive Officer, Multichoice Nigeria, John Ugbe, has been elected the Chairman of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON).

    Read Also: Adesola appointed Ecobank Board Chair

    He defeated Sir. Godfrey Ohuabunwa of Multimesh Limited by 63 to 35 votes in a keenly contested election at the Coronation Hall of the Kano State Government House, Kano.

    The election was part of the 75th General Assembly and 20th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of BON.

  • Quantum computing and the future of cloud security, by Nneoma Iheonun

    Quantum computing and the future of cloud security, by Nneoma Iheonun

    As quantum computing rapidly evolves, it is reshaping the landscape of cybersecurity, particularly in cloud environments. In an exclusive interview with OLUKOREDE YISHAU, Nneoma Iheonun, a Houston-based Cloud Security Engineer,  speaks on the challenges and innovations that quantum computing brings to cloud security, including emerging solutions such as homomorphic encryption and quantum-safe algorithms.

    Could you start by explaining why quantum computing is such a significant concern for cloud security?

    Quantum computing is a groundbreaking technology with the potential to solve complex problems much faster than classical computers. While this opens up incredible possibilities for fields like drug discovery and climate modeling, it also presents a serious challenge to current encryption standards. Most cloud environments rely on asymmetric encryption algorithms, like RSA and ECC, to secure data. Quantum computers, once sufficiently advanced, could break these encryption methods in a fraction of the time it would take classical computers. This vulnerability is a major concern for cloud security, as it could expose sensitive data to unauthorized access.

     Given these risks, what steps should cloud providers and organizations take to prepare for a quantum future?

    Organizations need to adopt a proactive stance. First, they should conduct quantum risk assessments to understand their exposure and vulnerabilities. Next, cloud providers and organizations should invest in research and development of quantum-resistant algorithms, often referred to as post-quantum cryptography. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is currently working on standardizing these quantum-safe algorithms. Organizations should keep abreast of these developments and plan for a gradual transition to quantum-resistant encryption protocols. Finally, incorporating hybrid encryption models that combine classical and quantum-resistant algorithms can provide a layered security approach in the interim period before fully quantum-capable systems are mainstream.

    You mentioned hybrid encryption models. Can you explain more about how this work and their importance in the transition phase?

    Certainly. Hybrid encryption models use a combination of classical cryptography and quantum-safe algorithms to secure data. The idea is to leverage the strengths of both types of encryptions while mitigating the weaknesses. For example, while we’re transitioning to fully quantum-safe algorithms, which might be computationally expensive and not yet fully optimized, a hybrid approach allows us to continue using classical algorithms for their efficiency and speed, while also incorporating quantum-safe elements to protect against future threats. This strategy is crucial because it provides a safety net during the period when quantum computers are not yet powerful enough to break current encryption but are developing rapidly.

    Homomorphic encryption is another term that often comes up in discussions about cloud security in a quantum context. Could you explain what it is and how it relates to the topic?

    Homomorphic encryption is a fascinating concept in cryptography that allows computations to be performed on encrypted data without needing to decrypt it. This means that sensitive data can remain encrypted, yet still be used for processing in cloud environments. It’s particularly relevant in a quantum context because it reduces the risk of exposure—data stays protected even while in use. While current homomorphic encryption schemes are still computationally intensive, advancements in this area could make it a critical tool for quantum-resistant cloud security. Its ability to maintain data confidentiality while allowing meaningful analysis or computation is a game-changer.

    What do you see as the major challenges in implementing quantum-safe solutions in cloud environments?

    One of the biggest challenges is scalability. Cloud environments are vast and complex, with many interconnected systems and services. Introducing quantum-safe algorithms is not as simple as flipping a switch. It requires comprehensive updates to existing infrastructure, which can be costly and time-consuming. There is also the challenge of performance. Quantum-safe algorithms, like lattice-based cryptography, tend to be more resource-intensive than traditional ones. This means organizations will need to balance security with system performance, ensuring that new encryption methods do not degrade user experience or service delivery.

    What role do you think collaboration plays in preparing for quantum threats in cloud security?

    Collaboration is absolutely vital. Quantum threats are a global issue, and no single organization can tackle them alone. We need collaborative efforts between government bodies, academia, private industry, and international standards organizations. The NIST post-quantum cryptography standardization process is a great example of this. It has brought together experts from around the world to evaluate, test, and recommend quantum-safe algorithms. In the same way, cloud service providers, cybersecurity firms, and large enterprises should work together to share knowledge, resources, and best practices to ensure a coordinated and effective response to the quantum threat.

    Looking ahead, how do you envision the future of cloud security in a quantum world?

    I see cloud security evolving to become more adaptive and resilient. In a quantum world, security protocols will need to be dynamic and capable of updating themselves in response to new threats in real time. We might see the rise of more intelligent, AI-driven security systems that can predict and respond to quantum-based attacks before they occur. Additionally, there will be a greater emphasis on quantum key distribution (QKD) technologies, which leverage the principles of quantum mechanics to secure communications. The future will also likely involve greater use of decentralized models for data security, reducing single points of failure and enhancing overall system robustness.

    Finally, what advice would you give to organizations that are just beginning to consider quantum-safe security measures?

    My advice would be to start early and think long-term. Quantum computing may seem like a distant threat to some, but the reality is that it’s closer than many realize. Begin with a quantum risk assessment to understand where your organization stands. From there, develop a roadmap for transitioning to quantum-safe algorithms and consider hybrid solutions in the short term. Engage with the cybersecurity community, stay updated on developments from bodies like NIST, and participate in collaborative initiatives. By preparing now, organizations can avoid the scramble to catch up later and position themselves to leverage quantum technologies for secure and innovative operations.

    Thank you, Nneoma, for these valuable insights. It’s clear that preparing for the quantum era is not just about new technology but also about strategic planning and collaboration.

    Thank you. It’s been a pleasure to discuss this critical topic. The quantum era is coming, and with the right preparation, we can turn its challenges into opportunities for a more secure digital future.

  • Schneider electric releases 3-Phase UPS for industrial use

    By Ambrose Nnaji

    Schneider Electric has announced the launch of its Galaxy™ VL 200-500 kW (400V/480V) 3-phase uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for industrial applications.

    The newest addition to the Galaxy family offers a highly efficient and ruggedized, compact UPS, with up to 99-percent efficiency in patented ECOnversion™ mode, offering a full return on investment within two years (model dependent) for critical applications within industrial facilities.

    Schneider Electric will be unveiling this new Galaxy VL for industrial applications at staggered times across the globe.
    “The Galaxy VL was built to reduce voltage stress on the PN junction which is what causes system failure for most UPS. Typically, this equipment (UPS) is resilient to a fault. It doesn’t break down easily,” said Morris Nmor, Entreprise Manager, Schneider Electric.

    “You can maximize availability, reliability and Uptime for power continuity through the Galaxy VL UPS in your data center.

    “You can scale as you grow from 50kilowatt power module up to 500 kilowatts per unit, therefore; You can pay as you grow and reduce your total cost of ownership, Nmor added.

    He further said that with the VL UPS, you can do a live swap with no Scheduled downtime, you can add or swap power modules while keeping Your UPS online and your staff protected.

    READ ALSO: Bill to repeal Electricity Power Sector Reform Act 2005, passes second reading in Senate

    According to Schneider Electric, the key benefits of the new Galaxy VL include maximized space for critical production equipment. Galaxy VL is the most compact UPS in its class, 50-percent more compact than the market average at .8 m2, meeting the demand for uninterruptible power in space-constrained industrial environments. Additionally, Galaxy Lithium-Ion Battery Cabinets would deliver total space savings of up to 70-percent compared with VRLA battery solutions.

    It has a rugged design for harsh environments – high operating temperatures of up to 40°C, dust filters, conformal coating on critical PCBA boards, and seismic-ready system protection; saves money. Galaxy VL’s modular, scalable platform enables you to pay-as-you-grow, reducing CapEx investment, operating costs, energy consumption, and TCO. One can scale power instantly in 50 kW increments from 200 to 500 kW with no extra footprint.

  • Gisthouse releases beta version of audio gisting App

    The founders of GistHouse have unveiled the MVP and Beta version of their groundbreaking Afrocentric audio-conversation app, GISTHOUSE, from their headquarters in the USA.

    Also, Gistcoin, the crowdfunding vehicle for the GistHouse Project, has gone into public crowd sale.

    Dr. Ope Banwo, the Founder/CEO, flagged by Segun Awosanya, the GistHouse Director of Technical Services, and Vaughn Itemuagbor, the Chief Technical Officer, shared the screenshots of the app and the web links for gisthouse enthusiasts to apply for the free download the most valuable product (MVP) iteration of the GistHouse new app.

    Dr. Banwo, while speaking about the vision of the new entrant into the audio conversation social media space, said:  “GistHouse is the Afrocentric response to the growing audio conversation industry. The app not only builds upon the features already existing in first-generation audio apps like Clubhouse, Green Room, and Twitter Spaces, it actually takes the game to another level that will automatically allow users to maximise their conversations, gamify their communities and monetise their experience on the GistHouse audio-gisting social media platform.”

    Awosanya explained further: “What we have done is to take notes of most of the user frustrations on the few existing audio platforms, and built our whole ecosystem to solve those problems while also introducing new and exciting features that will make Gisthouse the go-to app on audio conversations all over the world.

    “GistHouse, unlike other apps in its genre, recognises that you, the user, is the king and we have factored in many game-changing features to reward you for being an active user on our groundbreaking app.”

    Read Also; US States appoints Nigerian-born doctor as surgeon-general

    He added: ” Get rewarded with GISTCOINs when you open your account during the opening month of October, get rewarded with GISTCOINs when you open your first room and for achieving follower milestones.

    “Ability to Monetise your content immediately inside the app.

    Gamify your community and deepen interactions and participation by your community members with a built in token.

    “You can now Get paid by sponsors to sponsor your rooms.

    “As a content creator, you can now Buy and sell your content right inside the app  Room Conveners, GistMods, Gisters and Gistees can now give and receive tips in transferable and Monetisable tokens.

    “Users can Gamify their community with ease with a unified borderless GistCoin token that eliminates global currency exhangeeabilty.

    “Users, who are actually the ones creating value on any platform, can now Get compensated for life by Gisthouse for everyone they referred to the Gisthouse community. This is huge for influencers with massive followers they can introduce to the app (you get compensated for life for every follower or friend you refer to the app!).”

    In addressing specific offerings to create quick adoption of Gisthouse by social media enthusiasts, Gisthouse also announced major incentives for adopters of the free audio platform during its Beta stage.

    Early downloaders and users of the free Gisthouse app between now and December receive benefits that have not been previously offered by other apps. Specifically, selected new users during the beta phase (October to December) will be rewarded in appreciation of their early faith in the app.

    According to Mr. Samuel Olatunji, the PR Consultant for Gisthouse in Africa, “With the release of an advanced MVP and beta version of the GistHouse App to the public, GistHouse management is signaling to the global community, and its crowdfunding supporters through the gistcoin token sale, that the GistHouse Project will not be like most crowdfunded projects that never saw the light of day for a year. The management will continue to surprise the market by staying ahead of its timeline as explained in its whitepaper.”

    GISTHOUSE will be in the beta phase from October – December 2021 and the promoters expect to get at least 100,000 users on the platform during the first 2 months of its limited beta testing phase.

  • OctaFX presents its Show Your Mastery giveaway

    ..Hundreds of prizes are up for grabs –– from brand new laptops to data vouchers. 

    This September, OctaFX has launched the latest phase of its ambitious advertising campaign in Nigeria. Start trading now and enter a generous giveaway. Don’t miss a chance of winning!

    Few months ago, OctaFX ran its #DuallifewithOctaFX challenge. The task was to make a short video about how you manage to live a dual life and combine several professions. The turnout was high! The winners received smartphones, branded OctaFX shirts, and caps.

    Following Dual Life, OctaFX launched its free Mastery training course. In seven short lessons, Ozo, Peruzzi, and other celebrities explained the basics you need to enter the Forex market.

    Now it’s time to put your knowledge into practice. Start trading and show your mastery! Until 1 October, you have a chance of winning one of the generous prizes. Open at least one order and join the last two drawings. OctaFX has already raffled off Macbook Air laptops, Samsung A22 smartphones, and data vouchers worth N10,000.

    Don’t miss your chance to win! The next draw is on 24 September.

    Don’t have the OctaFX Trading App yet? Download it from Google Play and show your mastery!

    To learn more about the Show Your Mastery giveaway, visit https://bit.ly/MasteryGiveaway_OctaFX

  • Apple to release iPhone 13 September 24

    By Muktar Balogun

    Tech giant, Apple, has revealed the company will be releasing the iPhone 13 and its mini version for their customers on September 24, 2021.

    The new iPhone 13 is said to be the next generation of the world’s best smartphone, featuring a beautiful design with sleek flat edges in five gorgeous new colours.

    Read Also: Twitter ban will be lifted ‘soon’, FG reassures

    The pre-order will start on Friday, September 17, and availability will begin on Friday, September 24.

    Apple’s customers in Australia, Canada, China, Germany, India, Japan, the UK, the US, and more than 30 other countries and regions will be able to pre-order iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini beginning at 5 am PDT on Friday, September 17, with availability beginning Friday, September 24.

    Both models will be available in Turkey beginning Friday, October 1 and in Malaysia, Mexico, South Korea, Thailand, and nearly 10 other countries and regions beginning Friday, October 8.

  • Tahir Bukhari, Redefining Data Systems for a More Resilient and Reliable Digital Future

    Tahir Bukhari, Redefining Data Systems for a More Resilient and Reliable Digital Future

    Data has become the lifeblood of modern organizations, yet many still struggle with maintaining its accuracy, reliability, and flow. When systems fail to keep up, even small lapses can disrupt critical decisions. The issue isn’t always the tools being used but how those tools are structured, managed, and connected. Building systems that function smoothly under pressure requires more than technical skill, it demands a deep understanding of how information behaves and how people depend on it.

    Across research institutions and industries, one recurring challenge stands out, how to make data systems that are both efficient and trustworthy. Many organizations still rely on fragmented workflows that slow down analysis and leave room for costly mistakes. Overcoming this problem calls for individuals who can merge scientific thinking with practical design to produce systems that anticipate challenges before they arise.

    Tahir Bukhari, Tayor has built his career around this balance. Trained in microbiology, he approaches data systems like a living organism, something that must be structured, observed, and constantly improved. His work focuses on creating data environments that minimize errors, enhance traceability, and deliver faster, more reliable outcomes for teams and institutions that depend on them.

    Through his time as a research assistant at the Center for Research and Development (CERAD), Federal University of Technology, Akure, Tahir Bukhari, learned firsthand how complex research projects can be disrupted by inconsistent data handling. He responded by developing structured workflows that combined precision with adaptability. That early experience shaped his ongoing pursuit of systems that remain dependable even under tight deadlines and changing conditions.

    “My journey has been a continuous pursuit of knowledge, where curiosity meets innovation, and every challenge becomes an opportunity to create smarter, data-driven solutions,” he says. It’s an outlook that has guided his efforts to strengthen the link between technical reliability and human decision-making.

    Tahir Bukhari’s expertise extends beyond research rooms and server logs. He mentors students and young professionals, helping them develop digital literacy and analytical thinking. His goal is to build people who understand why reliability matters and how to achieve it.

    His publication, Designing Scalable Data Warehousing Strategies for Two-Sided Marketplaces, reflects this practical mindset. The paper explores engineering-based approaches to creating flexible data structures that grow with demand while maintaining stability and speed.

    Precision, ethics, and accountability remain central to his philosophy. He believes that good systems should empower people, not overwhelm them, and that technology should always reflect integrity in its design and use.

    His quiet but deliberate approach continues to set a standard for professionals determined to make data work smarter, faster, and more responsibly.