The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Digital

  • DSO: Digital future the way to go

    DSO: Digital future the way to go

    • By Tajudeen Adepetu

    In 2006, Nigeria joined the global mandate led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to migrate from analogue to digital terrestrial broadcasting. The goal was clear: improve broadcast quality, free up spectrum, enable more channels, and unlock economic opportunities across the creative and tech industries.

    By 2015, the Federal Government okayed a White Paper to guide the Digital Switch Over (DSO), with the burden on the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to lead the execution. But what was meant to be a bold leap forward has since stalled—crippled by bureaucracy, outdated policy, resistance from entrenched interests, and a lack of political will.

    Now, nearly two decades after that global mandate, Nigeria is still stuck in limbo—while other countries have fully embraced the digital broadcasting era. This isn’t just embarrassing. It’s economically dangerous. It’s time for a hard reset. The DSO must move forward—not on nostalgia, but on today’s realities and tomorrow’s possibilities.

    The DSO project was meant to be a game-changer. It had the potential to transform our broadcast sector, boost content distribution, create new jobs, and elevate the viewer experience. But that dream has stalled. Why? We’re trying to build the future using the tools—and thinking—of the past.

    It’s 2025. We can’t run a marathon with shackles from 2015.

    The DSO was guided by a White Paper written in 2015. That’s almost a lifetime ago in tech years. The world has moved. Back then, the Digital Terrestrial Television(DTT) was the star. Today, it’s DTH, OTT, streaming, and hybrid systems.

    We’re now living in an era where your mobile phone is your TV, your radio, and your cinema—rolled into one. Yet Nigeria’s policy framework is still wired to old specs—forcing us to use outdated Set-Top Boxes, sidelining broadband integration, and ignoring global best practices. This is more than inefficient—it’s self-sabotage.

    If we don’t update our policies now, we risk building a digital infrastructure that’s obsolete before it’s even live. Millions of dollars will go down the drain. Creators and broadcasters will be stuck in tech that can’t compete. The global content economy will leave us behind.Why should we be held hostage by outdated decisions when new opportunities are knocking?

    The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is the body legally charged with steering this transition. So let them steer. Give them the power to modernize policy. Let them engage meaningfully with stakeholders. Shield them from bureaucratic drama and political landmines.The NBC is not the enemy. Obstructing it doesn’t protect progress—it kills it.

    Some are resisting the new DSO path because of old investments. That’s understandable—but it’s not sustainable. Legacy systems should never outweigh national growth. We need fresh strategies, not stale grudges. We need stakeholders who build, not bicker.

    Here’s the truth: The DTT-only boxes being pushed are outdated. They’re limiting. They cut users off from richer, smarter content experiences. Today’s consumer wants flexibility—TV, internet, streaming, all in one device. Anything less is a disservice to both audience and industry.We need hybrid STBs that reflect current tech realities. Anything else is a dead end.

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    Rip up the 2015 playbook. It’s done. It no longer fits the world we live in. Update the White Paper and align with today’s digital ecosystem. Back the NBC—fully. Give them the room and support to lead effectively.

    Think forward, not backward. This is about future growth—not preserving outdated systems.

    End the sabotage. We can’t keep slowing down the train over old battles. Progress doesn’t wait.

    Talk like builders, not gatekeepers. Every stakeholder must commit to solutions, not gridlocks.

    This is not just a switch from analog to digital—it’s a test of Nigeria’s readiness to embrace the future. And right now, we’re flunking that test. We don’t need another delay. We need bold leadership, policy courage, and a unified industry mindset. The NBC’s direction is right. They deserve our full support.

    Let’s stop dragging our feet. Let’s stop arguing over yesterday’s hardware. Let’s build a digital broadcast system that actually works—for now and for the future. Nigeria is home to Africa’s most influential creatives—filmmakers, musicians, content producers, and digital storytellers who shape global pop culture and drive billion-dollar industries.

    From Nollywood to Afrobeats, the Nigerian talent is setting the pace. Yet, the outdated handling of the DSO is a disservice to this ecosystem. By clinging to obsolete policies and technologies, we’re choking distribution channels, limiting access to local content, and blocking the full monetisation potential of creative work. In a country bursting with world-class talents, failing to provide a modern broadcast infrastructure isn’t just shortsighted—it’s sabotage. Nigeria deserves better. And the time to act is now.

    •Adepetu wrote in from Lagos

  • ‘Africa has the potential to increase women’s participation in digital sector’

    ‘Africa has the potential to increase women’s participation in digital sector’

    Elizabeth Atekoja is an internationally acclaimed expert and innovator in digital transformation and innovator, whose leadership and expertise have spanned across multiple industries, including education, healthcare, and financial technology.  Recognised as one of the trailblazers ino leveraging digital technologies to drive change, Atekoja’s outstanding contributions earned her the prestigious Tech Innovator by GAHAWARDs. In this write-up by EVELYN OSAGIE, x-rays Atekoja’s success story into the world of STEM and more.

    The woman and her passion for technology

    Elizabeth Atekoja is a digital transformation leader with a deep passion for innovation and emerging technologies. She sees herself as curious, compassionate, and ambitious. Her impressive career has earned her numerous accolades, most recently the prestigious Tech Innovator by GAHAWARDs in Nigeria, highlighting her leadership in reshaping the tech industry, with particular focus on the groundbreaking work she has done since founding FinancialRatesNG in 2020—designed to simplify financial decision-making for businesses and individuals in Nigeria. But what fuels her passion for technology and digital transformation?

    Hear her: “I’m deeply passionate about innovation, emerging technologies, and digital transformation. These areas fuel my desire to create meaningful change, whether it’s through improving business operations, enhancing user experiences, or shaping the future of industries with cutting-edge technology. The ability to solve complex problems, push boundaries, and drive progress is what excites me the most. I’m also passionate about lifelong learning and personal growth. I believe that the journey of constantly evolving—both professionally and personally—is key to unlocking potential and making a real impact. This passion fuels my ambition to explore new ideas, adopt new skills, and stay ahead of industry trends.”

    Being a woman, visionary leader

    For her, being a woman, means embracing a unique blend of strength, empathy, and resilience. It’s about being multifaceted—someone who can lead with ambition and confidence while also nurturing relationships and showing compassion. As a woman, I believe in the power of continuously evolving, learning, and breaking barriers, both in my personal life and career.

    She says: “It means being unapologetically myself – pursuing my passions, making an impact, and creating space for others to do the same. Being a woman is also about celebrating the diverse roles I play: as a mother, wife, professional, and individual. I’m proud of how these experiences shape me into someone who seeks to inspire others, lead with integrity, and foster a supportive environment for growth.

    Ultimately, being a woman is about owning my journey, embracing my individuality, and supporting others along the way. It’s a beautiful balance of ambition, compassion, and self-awareness, all grounded in the belief that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. On a more personal level, I’m passionate about family, community, and nurturing relationships. These are the things that ground me and remind me of the importance of balance in life. Being a mother, a wife, and a mentor gives me a deeper sense of purpose and drives my desire to set an example of resilience, compassion, and determination for those around me. Ultimately, it’s the intersection of technology, personal growth, and meaningful connections that fuels my passions and motivates me every day.”

    Growing up that impacted the woman I became

    “Growing up in Shomolu, Lagos, I was fortunate to experience a blend of challenges and support that shaped the woman I am today. My parents instilled in me and my siblings the belief that there was nothing we couldn’t achieve with hard work, determination, and a positive mindset. They encouraged us to dream big and pursue our goals relentlessly, no matter the obstacles. This mindset has been a driving force in both my personal and professional journey.

    “From a young age, I was taught to value resilience, curiosity, and empathy, which have become core principles in how I navigate challenges today. The experiences and lessons I learned growing up have influenced my passion for innovation and technology, as well as my commitment to leadership and progress. As I became a wife and mother, those early teachings remained with me, reminding me to balance ambition with compassion and to always strive for growth—both in my career and in my relationships. Growing up in Shomolu taught me to embrace every opportunity, face challenges head-on, and believe in my ability to create meaningful change.”

    A career built on innovation, strategy

    Atekoja’s career trajectory serves as a powerful example of how strategic thinking and innovation can drive business success in the digital age. Her ability to integrate cutting-edge technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics into business operations has positioned her as a thought leader in digital transformation. From leading pioneering projects in healthcare and education to implementing digital workplace solutions that improve operational efficiency, her leadership has transformed organisations, enabling them to adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

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    Throughout her career, Atekoja has demonstrated a remarkable capacity to balance innovation with practical execution. Her ability to provide clarity in an often-complex technological landscape has helped organisations not only embraces digital change but also thrive through it. She is known for fostering a culture of continuous innovation, where technology serves as an enabler for organisational growth and adaptability in an era of rapid digital transformation.

    Atekoja’s journey into engineering and STEM

    “I wish I could say that my journey into engineering and STEM stemmed from a deep curiosity or a strong desire to solve complex problems, but in reality, it was more of an unexpected turn. I graduated from the University of Lagos with a degree in Physics Education, initially thinking I would pursue a career in teaching or academia. However, my career path took a different direction when I started working in the financial services industry as a marketing executive. During this time, I found myself collaborating on technology projects and serving as a subject matter expert for technology innovation. These experiences sparked an interest in tech, even though I didn’t yet fully understand how it would fit into my career.”

    Atekoja’s expertise is grounded in a rigorous academic background and a passion for learning. Her educational journey reflects her commitment to excellence and a deep curiosity about the intersection of technology and business. “I pursued my MBA in General Management, at Hull Business School, UK  preparing myself to take on leadership and operational roles, but it wasn’t until I relocated to Canada that I realized how I could combine my technical knowledge with my business understanding. It was this realisation that helped me find my true purpose and passion. The shift allowed me to blend my diverse background in business, operations, and tech, creating a unique skill set that set me on a path toward digital transformation and innovation.

    In the end, it was this unexpected journey that led me to discover how deeply I am passionate about technology, problem-solving, and making an impact in the ever-evolving world of STEM.”

    In addition to her academic achievements, Atekoja has contributed extensively to the field through her publications, such as “Leading Digital Transformation: Filtering Through the Maze”.

    Impact on the financial technology landscape

    Over the years, her research has focused on the intersection of machine learning, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing, shedding light on how these technologies can be harnessed to solve real-world problems. In the same vein, her impact on the tech industry extends far beyond her leadership in traditional business sectors. Through her entrepreneurial venture and pioneering work in financial technology FinancialRatesNG, which was formally recognised with the Tech Innovator of the Year 2024 award at the GAHAWARDs, she has redefined how financial data can be utilised to empower businesses and individuals. This recognition not only highlights her technological innovation in the fintech space but also underscores her role as a catalyst for financial inclusion and empowerment.

    In a country like Nigeria, where access to clear and reliable financial information is often limited, Atekoja’s platform, which provides real-time, transparent financial insights, empowering users to make informed decisions in an increasingly volatile and dynamic market, is bridging crucial gaps in financial accessibility and decision-making.

    Atekoja’s work reflects her commitment to using digital tools to foster economic independence and improve the financial well-being of underserved communities.

    Bridging the gender gaps in the digital space

    Indeed, there are still gender disparities even in the digital or technology sector in Africa. For Atekoja, this is actually a global issue, but in the context of Africa, she posits that the underrepresentation of women in the digital and technology sector is influenced by a combination of cultural, social, and systemic factors. She also speaks of a movement in Africa creating a shift in the status quo for women in technology; while adding that Africa has the potential of creating a more inclusive and diverse industry that benefits everyone.

    In her words: “Historically, African societies have been shaped by traditional gender roles that often steer women away from technical fields and limit their access to education and opportunities in STEM. This cultural bias is reinforced by stereotypes that associate men with technical skills and leadership roles, while women are often expected to pursue careers in caregiving, education, or other roles deemed more “appropriate.” Additionally, there are practical barriers such as limited access to quality education, especially for girls in rural areas, and a lack of resources to support young women who are interested in technology. In some cases, women may not have the same access to mentorship, networks, or funding opportunities to advance in the tech space. “These barriers can make it more difficult for women to break into and thrive in the industry. However, despite these challenges, there is a growing movement in Africa to encourage and support women in technology. Organisations, initiatives, and programmes are emerging to provide training, mentorship, and opportunities for young women to enter the tech world. I am excited about the possibility of collaborating with these organisations, working to bridge the gaps in this space. By addressing these barriers, promoting education in STEM, and celebrating female role models, Africa has the potential to increase the participation of women in the digital and technology sectors, creating a more inclusive and diverse industry that benefits everyone.”

  • Digital Space Capital posts N620m profit after tax

    Digital Space Capital posts N620m profit after tax

    Digital Space Capital (DSC), finance and investment firm, has recorded a profit after tax (PAT) of N620 million for 2023.

    The performance represents 81.7 per cent year-on-year (YoY) growth from 2022. 

    This was announced at DSC’s 2024 ‘GiantStride Investment Summit: “The Quantum Leap 5.0”, in Lagos. 

    The company also reported a 30.2 per cent increase in gross income, at N2.9 billion. The gross income was driven by diversification of revenue streams. Presenting the results, Auditor at KSBC Advisory Partner, Aramide Ajayi, said: “In 2023, DSC achieved revenue expansion, with gross income growing by 30.2 per cent to N2.9 billion. Profit before and after tax increased by 82 per cent, and expenses grew by just 15 per cent, resulting in a positive margin ratio of 15 per cent,” he said. 

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    Etse Nupe of Nupe, Dr. Yahaya Abubakar, who chairs the board, lauded Group Managing Director, Mrs. Olubukola Abitoye, for her leadership. 

    Ooni of Ife, Enitan Ogunwusi, also lauded Abitoye, promising to support the company.

    “I am part of DSC. It is my baby. Their growth is important to me, and I will continue to support them. The greatest asset is surrounding yourself with values. Money is just currency; its true worth is the value attached to it.” 

    Speaking on the summit, Abitoye noted: “The theme embodies bold ambition and fosters transformative ideas and partnerships to redefine the investment landscape. It is a platform for innovators and stakeholders to align strategies that drive growth, sustainability, and innovation. Together, we embrace the challenge of scaling impact, reshaping industries, and unlocking opportunities for the future.” 

    Abitoye said the summit’s theme reflects DSC’s core values of innovation, proactivity, and commitment to excellence.

  • EU, Netherlands youth advisory councils advocate digital empowerment for youths

    EU, Netherlands youth advisory councils advocate digital empowerment for youths

    The EU Youth Sounding Board (EU-YSB), a youth advisory body of the European Union in Nigeria, and the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) of the Netherlands Consulate in Lagos have called on the federal government and other stakeholders to prioritise digital empowerment of young Nigerians.

    The youth advisory bodies made this call during an event tagged ‘Future Forward Dialogue 2024’ and organised in commemoration of the 2024 International Youth Day (IYD).

    Chairman of YAC, Babajide Oluwase, said the event was a collaborative effort of the youth advisory councils of the EU and the Netherlands Consulate in Lagos.

    He added that the theme of the IYD 2024, ‘From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,’ is particularly relevant to the focus of the dialogue.

    He said: “This event is a collaborative effort between the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) of the Netherlands Consulate in Lagos and the European Union Youth Sounding Board in Nigeria (EU YSB).

    “We are grateful to the Netherlands Consulate and the EU delegation for their unwavering commitment to youth engagement and their trust in our ability to organise this meaningful event.

    “In an increasingly digital world, young people have the potential to be powerful agents of change. By harnessing the power of technology, young people are driving innovation, creating sustainable solutions, and contributing to the overall development of Nigeria.”

    Oluwase described the dialogue as an avenue to hear directly from young people and youth-based organizations about their experiences, challenges and aspirations.

    He added that it will also examine existing frameworks and processes to identify areas for improvement and innovation, while developing actionable recommendations to inform the work of the Netherlands Consulate and the European Union in Nigeria.

    In his remarks, Peter Keulers, the Deputy Consul General of the Netherlands Consulate in Lagos, applauded the efforts of the EU-YSB and YAC for the contributions to youth developmment.

    He said: “We as the Dutch government in Nigeria try to contribute and help to harness the skills of young Nigerians and we have several programmes outlined for their growth.

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    “And we will continue playing this role with relevant authorities. We’ll partner with the Nigerian government together with international organisations, like the World Bank, UN agencies, other agencies and the civil societies to play important roles in youth development.”

    Representing the Lagos state government, Mobolaji Ogunlende, state Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, commended the youth advisory bodies for their vision and dedication to empower young Nigerians.

    Speaking on the IYD theme, he said, “I am reminded of the vast potential that lies within our youth. And I am proud to say that the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development is committed to unlocking this potential.

    “One of our programs, The Lagos Youth: The Upskilling Program (LAG-UP), is a testament to this commitment. Partnership with Wema and GFA technologies (collaboration).”

    The commissioner further highlighted several programmes of the Lagos state government aimed at providing youths with the right tools to succeed.

    Ogunlende said, “This groundbreaking initiative is revolutionizing the lives of young Lagosians by equipping them with cutting-edge skills to thrive in an ever-evolving economy.

    “But our work doesn’t stop there. We believe in empowering our youth to become active contributors to Lagos State’s socio-economic development. And so, we have designed LAG-UP to address the pressing needs of our youth population through a holistic approach that includes Inclusivity, Sustainability, and Innovation.”

    He, therefore, urged Nigerian youths to work and collaborate with the government to create opportunities to achieve the mission.

    “In Lagos State, we are committed to creating an enabling environment for our youth to thrive which is my the administration has the THEMES + ++ as our agenda… social inclusion, gender equality and the youth.

    “But we cannot do it alone. We need the support of partners like the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) of the Netherlands Consulate in Lagos and the European Union Youth Sounding Board in Nigeria (EU YSB), who share our vision and our commitment to empowering young people.

    In her remarks, Summayya Ajani, the vice-chairperson of the EU-YSB in Nigeria, urged the government to involve the youths in major decision making.

    Highlighting the uniqueness of the youths’ perspective, she said, “The youths bring a unique perspective to the table. If you are planning anything to give back to the youth, the youth perspective is very important.

    “In addition to all the skills of Nigerian youths, the most important thing is to have the youth perspective, which brings a lot of insights and contexts to whatever you have planned because you cannot do things for the youths without the youths.”

    She, therefore, urged youths to be involved in the different sectors of government in order to achive favourable governement policies.

    Some of the highlights of the dialogue were presentation of awards to some young persons and a panel session with young entrepreneurs from different sectors, including Damilola Balogun -Youth Sustainable Development Network (YSDN); Temitayo Ajakore – M & E Advisor, GIZ/Digital Transformation Center; Lucy Aniagolu – Agrodemy Technologies; Jonathan Abakpa – Advocacy & Youth Program Officer, Plan International Nigeria; Eyitayo Ogunmola – Tech Entrepreneur, Founder & CEO Utiva; and Olufunmilayo Ajala – Healthcare Lead, Youth Advisory Committee.

    Young Nigerians recognized and given awards for their contribution to youth development include Jacob Oluwayanmife-Coconoto, who emerged as a winner in the agriculture category. Natasha Ibori-Uwana won the energy category, Dozie Igwello-Quadloop won the circular economy, Aisha Tofa-Startup Kano won for digital transformation, Ifeoluwa Adewumi-Hillspring diagnostics won for healthcare, and Yemi Adetiba-Orija-Headfort foundation for justice won for human rights and peace.

  • Imperative of digital literacy for economic growth

    Imperative of digital literacy for economic growth

    • By Olasupo Olusi

    As the future of work and life becomes increasingly intertwined with digitisation and technology, the demand for higher-value skills and digital literacy is on the rise. This shift is creating new business models, job opportunities, and driving economic growth. According to the World Economic Forum, an estimated 70% of new value created over the next 10 years will be based on digitally-enabled businesses—businesses that leverage digital technologies to create, deliver, and capture value in the market. The benefits are substantial, as these digital tools and technologies are expected to boost productivity, efficiency, and innovation across various sectors, thereby accelerating economic growth.

    Nigeria’s digital opportunity: Job creation and emerging sectors

    In Nigeria, the onset of digitisation presents a significant opportunity for job creation and the emergence of new sectors. Digital technologies are reshaping traditional industries, with sectors like fintech, e-commerce, and digital health growing rapidly. For instance, companies like Flutterwave and Paystack are revolutionising financial services by providing innovative solutions for entrepreneurs. A 2022 McKinsey report projects that Africa’s Financial Services market will grow by 10% annually, reaching $230 billion in revenues by 2025, with Nigeria’s fintech sector accounting for about a third of this market.

    Need for enhanced digital literacy

    To capitalise on the opportunities presented by digitisation, Nigeria must prioritise enhancing digital literacy and developing higher-value skills across its workforce. With the population becoming increasingly connected through the internet and digital devices, ensuring that citizens—especially the younger generation—are digitally literate is key to harnessing the full potential of digital technologies. An estimated 122.5 million people are internet users in Nigeria, indicating a 55.4 percent nationwide connectivity. According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), 70% of these users are young people between 18 and 35 years old. However, this also means that a large proportion of Nigerians, most of whom are young, still cannot access the internet and are unable to benefit from advancements in communication and technology. This digital divide could result in a generation missing out on the global digital revolution and its dividends to Nigeria.

    Bridging the digital divide: Gender equality in access

    The digital divide is even more pronounced when examining the disparity between men and women. Women are notably disadvantaged in accessing mobile and internet technologies, with only 34% of Nigerian women and girls online compared to 54% of men and boys (GSM Association). To bridge this inequality and truly harness Nigeria’s potential as a digital powerhouse, it is essential to address these gaps. By advancing gender equality in digital access and youth participation, we can strengthen our economy and make meaningful progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring inclusive and equitable growth for all.

    A unified approach to digital literacy

    To truly enhance Nigeria’s collective digital literacy, especially among the youth, a coordinated effort is essential. Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) like the Bank of Industry (BOI), alongside the government and private organisations, have a pivotal role to play. Their contributions through policies, training programmes, and infrastructure development are crucial in promoting digital literacy across the nation. However, the current landscape is fragmented, with too many splintered efforts that dilute the impact of initiatives.

    Recognising this challenge, the BOI has already taken significant steps to lead the unification of these efforts. By aligning roadmaps with key stakeholders, pooling resources, and strategically deploying massive capacity, the BOI is working to create a more cohesive and effective approach to digital literacy. This unified strategy not only maximises the impact of digital literacy initiatives but also accelerates Nigeria’s journey towards becoming a digital economy powerhouse. The BOI’s leadership in this regard is paving the way for unprecedented results, setting the foundation for a digitally empowered future.

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    Recognising the challenges of the digital divide and other inequalities, the Bank of Industry has identified six thematic groups: Youth & Skills, Gender, Digital, MSMEs, Climate Finance, and Infrastructure, to deepen our development impact. Each thematic group has interventions designed to provide targeted solutions to their respective sectors, fostering more equitable and inclusive development.

    Investing in the future: The path to sustainable development

    At the Bank of Industry, we are committed to supporting and empowering the next generation to harness digital tools and contribute to sustainable development. A digitally literate economy could significantly boost Nigeria’s growth over the next decade, potentially increasing GDP by 2% by 2028, creating nearly 2 million new jobs, and generating NGN 1.6 trillion in additional tax revenue (GSM Association). Investing in a digitally skilled workforce is crucial to fully realise these opportunities and drive sustainable development.

    Celebrating International Youth Day

    As Jack Ma insightfully noted, “The most important thing is to make technology inclusive – make the world change.” And I couldn’t agree more. We joined the world in celebrating International Youth Day as Nigerian youths participated in our carefully curated Masterclass session which held on August 15. This event featured thought leaders and seasoned professionals who shared their expertise and insights on this year’s theme, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.” This occasion presented an opportunity to impact over 150 young individuals, equipping them with essential digital skills and fostering their growth as future leaders in the digital space.

    •Dr. Olusi is MD/CEO, Bank of Industry.

  • Disinformation and Digital Threats to Democracy: The Influence of Digital Platforms

    Disinformation and Digital Threats to Democracy: The Influence of Digital Platforms

    • By Rebecca Ejifoma

    ABSTRACT

    While Nigeria’s cyberspace opened it up to new forms of disinformation, particularly from foreign sources, citizens are also dealing with the disinformation possibilities of popular platforms like Telegram and TikTok. Such campaigns affect public opinion, skew political debate, and obstruct the democratic process. Building from work on digital disinformation’s impact on politics, protests, and the public’s perception of both, this article scrutinizes how disinformation flows in Nigeria. Anchored in current literature and research findings, the article assesses the impact foreign digital meddling has on democratic processes and presents a discussion of the manner in which Nigeria might safeguard its political terrain from the onslaught of algorithmic manipulation and international propaganda warfare.

    INTRODUCTION

    The health of democracy is contingent upon a healthy public discourse, factual information and knowledge being accessible, and citizens being able to make informed political choices. Digital disinformation has increasingly threatened the fabric of Nigeria’s democracy in recent years. This is not a risk that just relies on the misuse of local media, but part of an increasingly complex environment of global digital risks. Foreign disinformation campaigns, often crafted and curated by actors outside the state, have increasingly intervened in political narratives, social tensions, and trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions. Emotionally manipulative and false or misleading content has often been weaponised via digital platforms like Telegram and TikTok.

    The unique characteristics of contemporary disinformation are not only the proliferating and peddling of misrepresentation but also the speed and viral nature of algorithmically mediated media experiences. This becomes especially problematic because young Nigerians, most of whom access news primarily through mobile-first applications, are especially vulnerable to being manipulated in this way. Foreign-supported disinformation, therefore, has proliferated in Nigeria’s online spaces and affected both discourse and offline politics. This paper seeks to analyze the operation of these digital disinformation networks, the tools and platforms used to spread their message and the threats they present to democracy in Nigeria.

    Foreign Disinformation Campaigns and Nigeria’s Vulnerability

    Given Nigeria’s geopolitical and economic prominence within West Africa, Nigeria has been susceptible to foreign influence operations, especially during elections and periods of national unrest. As summarized by CDD West Africa, coordinated digital campaigns have sought to manipulate the nation’s voting process and interrupt on-the-ground political discussions by bringing in controversial material from outside. These disinformation campaigns can come from geopolitical state actors attempting to destabilize Western-aligned democracies, or from transnational disinformation entrepreneurs profiting from political confusion and attention economies.

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    This is the case of politically themed Telegram groups that seem to be local Nigerian types but are being run from foreign jurisdictions. These movements have transformed into vectors for foreign disinformation campaigns that advance messages from lies about election fraud to more extreme assertions about ethnic or religious others. Because of Telegram’s encryption and low moderation, such campaigns are also difficult to track and harder still to control. Messages can be sent on and within seconds can be sent to thousands without any metadata to attach them to their senders.

    Despite its reputation as an entertainment platform, TikTok has proven to be an effective vehicle for political disinformation. The site’s short-form videos are conducive to this kind of emotional manipulation, and the algorithmic feed emphasises viral content over honest content. For instance, in the 2023 Nigerian general elections, several TikTok videos appeared with false images or AI-driven commentary posing as news. These types of videos tended to create highly emotional images of candidates through the use of sensationalism and misinformation that skewed public perceptions. Among these were some that originated from foreign accounts with massive followings unverifiably linked to Nigeria. The penetration of disinformation by foreign actors via popular digital platforms is a new and different danger than bias in local media.

    Influence on Protests, Politics, and Public Opinion

    Perhaps the clearest example of the amalgamation of foreign disinformation with local activism is the impact of digital narratives on recent protests and civil movements. Even a movement as organic and driven by genuine sections of the public outraged by police brutality, the #EndSARS movement was subject to this kind of distortion. Existing foreign-backed networks capitalised on the online momentum by introducing more divisive narratives depicting protestors as anarchists or foreign agents. Such narratives were propagated through platforms like Telegram and TikTok, creating confusion and grounds for state crackdowns.

    Disinformation of foreign origin also plays an important role in electoral politics.

    During both the 2019 and 2023 elections, false accounts including doctored videos purporting to show ballot boxes being stuffed or fake reports on how INEC was rigging elections flooded the news space. In some instances, disinformation campaigns were used against particular ethnic and regional fault lines to create animosity between communities. This is a tactic referred to as wedge-driving, common among foreign influence operations that seek to divide a country and undermine democracy. Poll data has indicated that disinformation creates distrust not only of politicians, but of the electoral process itself, resulting in voter apathy and disengagement.

    The desensitisation effect of seeing misleading information online over time should not be discounted. When these narratives become commonplace, citizens adopt them and begin to question democratic institutions. Repeated lies, especially when emanating from what appears to be “expert” or credible authority, start to take the place of reality. The result is epistemic erosion diminishing people’s skills in differentiating between truth and propaganda and creating a manipulable society. It becomes exacerbated in a polarised Nigeria, adding to mistrust in governance and civil discourse.

    Platforms, Algorithms, and the Spread of Falsehoods

    This is driven in large part by platform design and algorithms. Platforms such as Telegram and TikTok organise and mediate content according to levels of engagement. Content that elicits strong affective reactions like anger, panic, or in-group solidarity is more likely to be shared and accepted. This causes a feedback loop of misleading or incendiary content that becomes more visible and harder to debunk.

    Telegram’s encrypted channels allow disinformation to proliferate without moderation or oversight. Groups tend to be anonymous and are often transnational, unlike platforms with more moderation policies. This presents opportunities for narrative manipulation without the risk of legal or reputational repercussions.

    While TikTok professes moderation, it is unable to keep up with the enormous amount of content. What is an entertainment enthat gine has turned into a vehicle for ideological influence. Satirical or dramatised disinformation slips below fact-checkers’ radars but still influences political attitudes. False narratives may spread unchecked until challenged.

    Defending Democracy in the Age of Digital Deception

    In light of these threats, the defense of democracy must be multidimensional. The Nigerian state, civil so,ciety and tech companies should work together to create clearer norms of accountability for digital content. National legisl,ation such as the Cybercrim,e Act should also be amended to target transnational disinformation.

    Media literacy should be part of national education to equip citizens, especially youth, to critically evaluate digital content. Organizations like Dubawa and FactCheckHub are doing important work but need formal support and recognition. Nigeria must promote digital skepticism so media users engage critically.

    CONCLUSION

    The role of foreign disinformation on platforms such as Telegram and TikTok in Nigeria’s democratic space should not be ignored. They skew debates, capitalize on social divides, and corrode trust in institutions. Manipulation by foreign actors can disrupt elections, elicit chaos, and undermine the trust on which democracy relies.

    The crisis is serious, but not hopeless. With regulation, infrastructure development, media literacy, and international cooperation strategically put in place, Nigeria can shield itself from foreign disinformation. The need is dire; it is a potential ticking time bomb if unchecked. In the digital era, elections are no longer the sole cornerstone of democracy; the information ecosystems that enable them must also be free.

    REFERENCE

    Ojebuyi, B. R., & Okorie, N. (2021). Weaponized information, electoral process and Nigeria’s democracy: Disinformation as a political strategy. African Journalism Studies, 42(2), 31–51. https://doi.org/10.1080/23743670.2021.1927461

    Samuel, S. O., & Adeoye, O. A. (2022). Social media, misinformation, and political polarization in Nigeria: An analysis of the #EndSARS protests. Journal of African Media Studies, 14(1), 79–96. https://doi.org/10.1386/jams_00057_1

    Ojebode, A., & Omojola, O. (2020). Democracy and disinformation in the digital age: The Nigerian experience. In Democracy and Nigeria’s Fourth Republic (pp. 142–157). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-37194-5_10

    UNESCO. (2023). Disinformation campaigns and youth manipulation in West Africa. Retrieved from https://unesdoc.unesco.org

    Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD). (2023). Disinformation and foreign interference in Nigeria’s electoral processes: Patterns, threats and counterstrategies. Abuja: CDD West Africa. https://cddwestafrica.org

  • Digital humanities can transform classrooms, empower students – Adegbenro

    Digital humanities can transform classrooms, empower students – Adegbenro

    As Nigeria embraces the digital revolution in education, Digital Humanities (DH) is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of academic transformation. 

    This shift is especially evident in the humanities, where DH tools are reshaping how we teach, research, and understand human culture.

    The expanding role of DH in Nigerian academia was recently highlighted at the Digital Humanities Workshop and Conference held on August 14-15, 2024, by the Centre for Digital Humanities (CEDHUL) at the University of Lagos. 

    CEDHUL, under the leadership of Professor Tunde Ope-Davies, has become a hub for innovation, offering training and resources to both students and educators. The event brought together scholars from various disciplines to explore the opportunities and possibilities that DH offers, particularly in non-STEM fields. 

    In a chat with our correspondent, Dr. Adegbenro, a researcher at the University of Kansas, Lawrence, USA, and a product of CEDHUL who is one of the facilitators at the workshop, emphasized the importance of integrating DH tools into writing instruction, and communication to better prepare students for the challenges of the digital age anywhere in the world.

    Adegbenro’s advocacy comes at a critical moment in Nigerian higher education, just as the National Universities Commission (NUC) is working on making the teaching of Digital Humanities mandatory across all Nigerian universities. This initiative, combined with the efforts of scholars like Professor Tunde Ope-Davies and the Centre for Digital Humanities at the University of Lagos, highlights the growing recognition of DH as an essential component of modern education.

    Adegbenro’s research aligns with these national efforts by addressing a critical yet often overlooked area of composition instruction: informal argumentation. In an era where digital platforms dominate public discourse, the ability to craft and critique informal arguments is essential. However, traditional composition courses often emphasize formal academic writing, leaving students unprepared to navigate the informal argumentative landscapes of social media, blogs, and other digital spaces.

    At the University of Kansas, Adegbenro’s research seeks to bridge this gap by integrating Digital Humanities tools into the teaching of informal argumentation. His work is particularly relevant as Nigerian universities prepare to implement the NUC’s mandate on Digital Humanities. By adopting DH tools, educators can provide students with the skills needed to critically engage with digital content, thereby enhancing their overall rhetorical abilities.

    “Digital Humanities is not just a trend; it’s a necessary evolution in how we teach and learn,” Adegbenro emphasizes. “Incorporating DH tools into composition classes allows us to teach students how to analyze and construct arguments in the digital age, where informal argumentation plays a dominant role.” The research employs a range of DH tools, including text analysis software, digital archives, and interactive databases, to help students deconstruct and understand informal arguments. By analyzing digital texts such as social media posts, online articles, and multimedia content, students can identify rhetorical strategies and learn to apply them in their writing. This hands-on approach not only makes argumentation more accessible but also more relevant to the types of communication students will encounter in their academic and professional lives.

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    The movement to integrate DH tools into Nigerian education is part of a broader global trend, and Adegbenro’s work exemplifies how local initiatives can align with these global developments. Scholars like Professor Tunde Ope-Davies and CEDHUL at the University of Lagos are leading the charge in promoting DH in Nigeria and making significant strides in research and teaching. Their efforts, combined with the NUC’s new mandate, position Nigeria to become a leader in Digital Humanities within Africa and beyond.

    However, as Adegbenro points out, the success of this movement depends on the willingness of Nigerian scholars to embrace these changes and actively contribute to the development of DH curricula. “We need more scholars in Nigeria to take up the challenge of integrating DH tools into their teaching and research,” he asserts. “This is not just about adopting new technologies; it’s about transforming our approach to education to better serve our students and society.”

    One of the key advantages of using DH tools in composition classes is their potential to enhance students’ critical thinking skills. By engaging with digital texts and arguments, students learn to question sources, analyze biases, and construct well-informed responses. This critical engagement is particularly important in the context of informal argumentation, where misinformation and poorly constructed arguments can easily spread in digital spaces.

    Moreover, Adegbenro believes that teaching informal argumentation through DH tools can empower students to become more active and informed participants in civic discourse. “In a country like Nigeria, where public discourse often occurs in digital spaces, it’s crucial that we equip our students with the skills to engage thoughtfully and responsibly,” he says. “By teaching them how to analyze and construct arguments online, we are not only preparing them for academic success but also for active citizenship.”

    As Nigerian universities prepare to implement the NUC’s directive on Digital Humanities, this research offers a timely and practical approach to integrating these tools into composition curricula. He advocates for a collaborative effort among educators, institutions, and policymakers to ensure that DH tools are not just an add-on to existing courses but are fully integrated into the teaching and learning process.

    To facilitate this integration, Adegbenro is working on developing resources and training programs for educators who are new to DH tools. These resources will include workshops, instructional guides, and ongoing support to help instructors effectively incorporate DH tools into their teaching. By providing educators with the tools and knowledge they need, Adegbenro aims to create a sustainable model for DH education in Nigeria.

    “In the coming years, we will see Digital Humanities become an integral part of education in Nigeria,” Adegbenro predicts. “But this will only happen if we, as scholars and educators, take the lead in adopting these tools and advocating for their use. The future of education lies in our ability to adapt to the digital age, and Digital Humanities is a key part of that adaptation.”

    As Nigerian universities begin to implement the NUC’s mandate, Adegbenro’s research will serve as a valuable resource for educators looking to integrate DH tools into their composition classes. His work foregrounds the importance of teaching informal argumentation in a digital context and provides a model for how DH tools can be used to enhance critical thinking, civic engagement, and overall rhetorical skills.

    As the academic year approaches, the need for educators who can teach Digital Humanities courses becomes increasingly urgent. Adegbenro’s work serves as both an inspiration and a practical guide for how this can be achieved, ensuring that Nigeria remains at the forefront of educational innovation in Africa and beyond.

  • Nigeria, others form digital enterprises federation

    Nigeria, others form digital enterprises federation

    Nigeria has joined seven others to birth the African Federation of Digital Enterprises (FADB), Under the aegis of Federation Morocaine des Technologies de l’Information des Telecommunications et de l’Offshpring (APEBI) and with the institutional support of the Kingdom of Morocco.

    The leaders of professional organisations from the eight African countries gathered in Marrakech on 29 and 30 May 2024, as part of the prestigious GITEX Africa. FADB was sealed by the signing of the Marrakech Declaration.

    This major initiative marks a decisive turning point for cooperation between public authorities and the private sector, aimed at co-constructing an inclusive digital ecosystem for all African countries.

    In a statement, FADB’s founding members have committed to a number of strategic resolutions to effectively address Africa’s digital challenges and maximise growth opportunities in the sector. These include improving the business climate by optimising the regulatory environment to encourage the development of digital business.

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    It is also designed to ensure free movement by supporting the implementation of the African Union Protocol on the Free Movement of Persons, Goods and Services, which is essential for boosting intra-African trade.

    Universal Access to Digital Technologies is another commitment of the group as it is poised touarantee access to basic digital infrastructures, in particular high-speed internet access, for all African citizens.

    Others are support for local entrepreneurship through the establishment of incubators and accelerators to encourage innovation and support start-ups and digital SMEs; skills development by promoting training programmes to raise digital skills across all sections of the population, targeting young people, women and people living in rural areas in particular; digital financial inclusion by extending access to digital financial services for traditionally unbanked populations and strengthening economic resilience.

    Harmonisation of digital regulations by facilitating the exchange of cross-border digital services by harmonising rules on data protection and cybersecurity and promotion of cross-border e-commerceto stimulate the development of e-commerce platforms to strengthen economic integration and the single market in the AfCFTA.

    “Following this declaration, a committee has been formed to finalise the statutes of FADB, which will be headquartered in Morocco. The invitation is now open to other African professional organisations wishing to join this ambitious initiative,” the statement explained.

    FADB’s founding members include influential players in Africa’s ICT sector, represented by leaders committed to a prosperous and inclusive digital future.

    They are APEBI du Maroc, represented by Redouane EL HALOUI, Chairman; President of ATCON (Nigeria), represented by Tony I EMOEKPERE; GOTIC of Côte d’Ivoire, represented by Mohamed SOUNKERE, Representative of Chairman Laurent GNON; REPTIC from Cameroon, represented by Dr.-Ing. Pierre-François KAMANOU; and President ICT Chamber of Rwanda, represented by Emery RUBAGENGA. Others are PROTIC of Guinea-Conakry, represented by Boubacar 55 BARRY, President; Congo-Brazza Chamber of Commerce, represented by Paul OBAMBI, President and Djibouti Chamber of Commerce, represented by Mahamoud Iddiris Khaireh.

  • Don: use digital spaces to change colonial legacies

    Don: use digital spaces to change colonial legacies

    Scholars all over the globe, particularly of African descent have been urged to take an active role in challenging and changing colonial legacies through the use of digital spaces.

    This was the highpoint of a study by Dr Ayodele Akinola, a leader in the field of digital humanities, who engaged scholars recently during an event:“Global Digital Humanities Symposium 2024”, held in Michigan State University, United States.

    Akinola, a distinguished scholar at  Michigan Technological University,  who was  formerly with Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Nigeria, spearheaded the pioneering research into colonial narratives woven within the online reviews of themed hotels in Las Vegas.

    The study, meticulously analysed around 24,000 reviews from the popular travel website TripAdvisor,showed how modern digital platforms can subtly perpetuate historical power dynamics and cultural stereotypes.

    Focusing on three iconic hotels—Luxor, The Venetian, and Paris Las Vega, Akinola highlighted the potent ways in which  language and themes of online reviews echo and sustain colonial legacies.

    Though led by Akinola, other scholars from various institutions and disciplines that assisted in the research include Frank Onuh, University of Lethbridge, Canada; Sunday Adegbenro, University of Kansas, USA; Olarotimi Ogungbemi, University of Texas, San Antonio, USA; and Tunde Ope-Davies, University of Lagos, Nigeria.

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    They said  time had come for scholars to collaborate and engage the digital spaces to change the long-held colonial narratives.

    The research underscores the urgent need for scholars, digital platform creators, and the public to foster a more nuanced and critical awareness of the historical and cultural implications of digital content. This awareness is crucial for deconstructing the colonial legacies that continue to permeate our digital and physical worlds.

     Akinola, who lamented how colonial narratives continue to shape the views and perspectives of the globe, challenged the participants to reconsider many of the narratives that promote colonianism.

    “Our work transcends academic boundaries, providing a critical lens through which we can evaluate the role of digital platforms in contemporary societal discourse.

    “As scholars and the wider public grapple with the complexities of postcolonial identity and heritage in the 21st century, this study offers a crucial understanding of how colonial narratives continue to shape and influence our modern world.

  • Firm gives digital skills to 200 SMEs women

    Firm gives digital skills to 200 SMEs women

    AXA Mansard, member of AXA, global insurance and asset management firm, has given 200 women SMEs financial literacy and digital skills in collaboration with SME 100 Africa.

     The two-day training in Lagos is part of AXA’s programmes to mark this year’s International Women’s Day.

     AXA Mansard had been training women SMEs to increase financial and digital literacy in female-owned SMEs.

      Head of Marketing, Olusesan Ogunyooyen, said  the training would empower fthe SME owners with skills to improve business output and position them for opportunities in the digital marketplace.

    Ogunyooye noted that the move is in line with AXA Mansard’s agenda, saying the company is convinced support for women is pivotal to its mission.

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      He said focusing on digital skills is important because the company recognised that these skills are key to growth of SMEs, with awomen as part of that growth.

     “SMEs are the engine for growth, especially in Nigeria, where over 45 million adults are business owners.

    ‘‘What needs to be discussed is how Nigeria unlocks that potential and how much of that is unlocked by women and for women.”

     “We are aware digital is key to unlocking these opportunities. So, to ensure women are represented in unlocking this, we collaborated with SME 100 Africa to support women in developing these skills”.

    “Our choice of digital and financial literacy skills is deliberate. We understand helping SMEs with skills to attract more customers will be faster in empowering them. We see they have amazing products and services, but they need to understand how to attract value for themselves by attracting the right customers… So, if we can empower them with digital business skills, we would have helped them to find and attract customers”. Ogunyooye noted. 

    AXA believes there must be equitable distribution and access to opportunities for men and women.

    his quest for balance informed the SHE for Shield initiative, a women-centred inclusive protection programme of AXA Mansard.