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NDPC Advocates Data Protection Awareness at INGO Forum Training Workshop

NDPC Advocates Data Protection Awareness at INGO Forum Training Workshop

 

Lagos, Nigeria – The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has reiterated its commitment to strengthening data protection awareness and compliance in the country. This was underscored during a Data Protection Training Workshop organised for the Nigeria INGO Forum (NIF), where the NDPC’s National Commissioner and CEO, Dr Vincent Olatunji, was represented by the Head of Research and Development, Dr Tolulope Pius-Fadipe.

The workshop aimed to enhance knowledge and capacity in data protection among international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) operating in Nigeria. In her address, Dr Pius-Fadipe highlighted the importance of data protection in fostering trust, ensuring regulatory compliance, and boosting Nigeria’s digital economy. She reaffirmed the NDPC’s dedication to enforcing data protection laws and promoting a culture of accountability in data management practices across all sectors.May be an image of 1 person, dais and text

Participants engaged in interactive discussions, exchanging ideas and strategies for implementing data protection measures within their organisations. The training provided a valuable platform for INGOs to deepen their understanding of data security protocols and compliance requirements.

Through such initiatives, the NDPC continues to champion capacity-building efforts, aligning Nigeria’s data protection framework with global best practices and reinforcing security measures within the country’s digital ecosystem.

 

 

ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU May be an image of 3 people, dais and text that says "OUT"

FMAFS INTRODUCES NATIONAL URBAN AGRICULTURAL PROGRAMME

FMAFS INTRODUCES NATIONAL URBAN AGRICULTURAL PROGRAMME

 

In a bid to bolster self-sufficiency in food production and empower Nigerian households, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has announced the introduction of a National Urban Agricultural Programme (NUAP).

The programme is scheduled to take off in 2025, with financial provisions contained in the year’s Appropriation proposals.

This was disclosed on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, by the Hon. Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, while speaking at the grand finale of the “Every Home A Garden” competition organized by the Office of the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, under the Renewed Hope Initiative: Agricultural and Food Security Programme, held in Banquet Hall, State House,Abuja.

The Minister of State said the NUAP would be boosted by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security taking over the “Every Home A Garden” and “Young Farmers Club” projects, which were components of the First Lady’s Agricultural Support Programme. “Our National Urban Agricultural Programme will institutionalize the gains of these initiatives for the good of all,” the Minister said.May be an image of 1 person, dais and text

The Minister of State also praised Sen. Oluremi Tinubu for her “unwavering commitment and forward-looking vision that has ignited a nationwide movement.”

He noted that the “Every Home A Garden” competition “has not only encouraged citizens, especially women, to embrace home gardening but also contributed to healthier lifestyles, reduced household food insecurity, and strengthened community ties”

“Every Home A Garden” competition “has not only encouraged citizens, especially women, to embrace home gardening but also contributed to healthier lifestyles, reduced household food insecurity, and strengthened community ties”

 

While applauding the First Lady for her “exceptional leadership in paving the path towards ensuring the success of her pet project,” Sen. Sabi Abdullahi said the “Every Home A Garden” competition “recognizes creativity, excellence, commitment to sustainable gardening practices, and household self-sufficiency.”

He congratulated the winner of the maiden edition of the competition, Mrs. Veronica Kidafa Mbaya, of Borno State.

“Every Home A Garden” competition was launched in October 2023 by Sen. Tinubu. The winner took home a combined prize of N25 million.

Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tunisia Join Russia’s Currency Trading List Amid Global Economic Shifts

Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tunisia Join Russia’s Currency Trading List Amid Global Economic Shifts

 

In a significant move that underscores shifting global trade dynamics, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tunisia have been added to Russia’s official currency trading list. This development expands the number of countries on the list from 30 to 40, reinforcing Russia’s strategic push toward alternative financial partnerships amid ongoing Western sanctions.

The inclusion of these African nations, alongside other new entrants such as Laos and Mexico, is part of Moscow’s broader effort to bolster trade in national currencies. The expansion is also driven by the need to enhance liquidity, as Russian individuals and financial institutions have limited capacity to provide sufficient liquidity in foreign currencies.

Impact on Trade and Economic Relations

This decision is expected to strengthen bilateral trade flows between Russia and these newly added countries, supporting transactions estimated at $1.8 trillion. Furthermore, it provides a buffer for Russia’s $1.3 trillion economy, which continues to navigate the challenges posed by Western-imposed financial restrictions.

The move aligns with a growing global trend where countries seek alternatives to traditional dollar-dominated transactions. By expanding its currency trading partnerships, Russia aims to diversify its economic relationships, fostering a multipolar financial system that reduces dependence on Western-controlled monetary frameworks.

Implications for Nigeria and Other African Nations

For Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tunisia, this development presents new economic opportunities, particularly in trade, investment, and financial cooperation with Russia. It could facilitate easier transactions in sectors such as energy, agriculture, and technology, potentially leading to deeper economic ties.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, has been exploring ways to diversify its trade relationships beyond Western financial institutions, and this inclusion may provide an alternative channel for international transactions. Ethiopia and Tunisia, both emerging markets with strategic economic importance, could also leverage this opportunity to strengthen trade relations with Russia.

Geopolitical and Economic Considerations

As Western nations continue to impose sanctions on Russia, Moscow’s focus on expanding its financial alliances with Africa, Asia, and Latin America signifies a recalibration of global economic partnerships. The move is likely to accelerate discussions on de-dollarization and encourage alternative financial systems that reduce the dominance of Western financial institutions in global trade.

With trade flows expected to increase and economic relations deepening, the inclusion of Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tunisia in Russia’s currency trading list marks a pivotal moment in international finance. As these nations navigate the evolving global economic landscape, their participation in Russia’s financial network could reshape trade partnerships in the years to come.

Margaret Olele Highlights Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria at High-Profile FDI Roundtable

Margaret Olele Highlights Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria at High-Profile FDI Roundtable

 

Lagos, Nigeria – The Chief Executive Officer of the American Business Council, Margaret Olele, recently presented key insights from the American Business Council Nigeria survey report on the Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria. Her presentation was delivered at the Existing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Roundtable, organized by the Office of the Vice-President of Nigeria in collaboration with The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) Secretariat.No alt text provided for this image

The event, attended by over 400 stakeholders, featured top government officials, including the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso; Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Minister of Foreign Affairs; Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs; and various heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), such as the Postmaster General of the Federation and the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council. Several state governors and prominent industry leaders also participated in the high-level discussions.

During the event, the newly appointed Director-General of PEBEC, Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment. The Central Bank Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, provided an update on recent monetary reforms, emphasizing their positive impact on the Nigerian economy.No alt text provided for this image

Olele, in her remarks, engaged with leaders representing chambers of commerce from the European Union, China, France, and Indonesia. She noted the increasingly pivotal role of Chambers of Commerce in supporting and advocating for the private sector amidst shifting global trade dynamics. With buzzwords like geopolitics, tariffs, geo-economics, diversification, trade rebalancing, and soft power diplomacy shaping global discussions, she stressed the need for strengthened collaboration between the public and private sectors to drive FDI inflows into Nigeria.No alt text provided for this image

The roundtable provided a platform for key policymakers and industry players to deliberate on strategies to enhance Nigeria’s business climate and attract foreign investments, reinforcing the government’s commitment to economic reforms and trade facilitation.

 

Driving Digital Transformation in Emerging Economies Through Media, Fintech & EdTech

Driving Digital Transformation in Emerging Economies Through Media, Fintech & EdTech

 

Aleph Group, a leading global enabler of digital advertising, fintech services and education technology, proudly marks its 20th anniversary with the launch of a bold company manifesto and video campaign, celebrating two decades of innovation, growth, and its mission to make the digital world more accessible for everyone.

From its humble beginnings in Miami in 2005 to becoming a global leader in the digital advertising ecosystem, Aleph has consistently challenged the status quo, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities in over 150+ markets worldwide, with 60+ exclusive partnerships, serving more than 26,000 advertisers globally and 1500+ employees worldwide.

Aleph’s success has been fuelled by its commitment to creating lasting value, extending the reach of digital advertising and making a difference in emerging markets. “When we started, we didn’t dream of being part of the digital world; we dreamed of making it possible for everyone to be part of the digital world,” reads the manifesto. This philosophy has driven Aleph’s evolution from a small startup to a global powerhouse, playing a pivotal role in connecting businesses, brands, and consumers through digital platforms.

“Our collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital growth,” said Stanislaus Martins, Managing Director for West Africa at Aleph.

“With Aleph’s expanded partnership with Pinterest and TikTok, we can now offer brands in Nigeria access to one of the world’s leading visual discovery and social media platforms, helping them reach millions of users passionate about discovering new ideas. These partnerships unlock new opportunities for Nigerian advertisers to connect with engaged audiences, driving meaningful engagement and business growth. Together, we’re excited to help businesses in Nigeria thrive in the digital age,” added Martins.

A Bold Vision for the Future: To commemorate its 20th anniversary, Aleph is unveiling a corporate manifesto video featuring employees from around the globe. The campaign captures Aleph’s unique philosophy: “At Aleph, there’s no room for small dreams. That’s why big things happen.” The video highlights the company’s journey and commitment to empowering businesses and individuals by providing access to the tools and platforms they need to thrive in the digital economy.

How Big is Your World? As part of the celebration, Aleph invites the world to reflect on its own digital ambitions through the campaign tagline, “How Big Is Your World?” The campaign encourages businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals to dream bigger and explore the limitless possibilities of the digital era.  Aleph’s story is not just one of business success but of a vision realised through collaboration and innovation. “Our success has always been about more than growth,” says Gaston Taratuta, Founder and CEO of Aleph. “It’s been about helping others grow, from our partners and clients to the communities we serve.”

Join Aleph in celebrating 20 years of making the digital world more accessible. We invite you to watch the manifesto video and discover how Aleph is shaping the future of the digital economies.

For media inquiries, please contact: press@alephholding.com/www.alephholding.com

Keeping Marriage Alive Initiative Hosts Exclusive Valentine’s Couples Vision Retreat in Owerri

Keeping Marriage Alive Initiative Hosts Exclusive Valentine’s Couples Vision Retreat in Owerri

 

 This Valentine’s season, Keeping Marriage Alive Initiative invites couples in Owerri and beyond to a unique and transformative experience at the Couples Vision Retreat. Set to take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Texas Suites and Resorts, Owerri, this retreat is designed to help couples strengthen their bond and set a shared vision for the year in a romantic and intimate setting.

Under the theme “Forward Together”, the retreat offers a carefully curated lineup of activities to inspire love, growth, and deeper connection between partners.

Highlights of the Event:

  • WAM/TLM Session – Interactive relationship-building sessions
  • One Free Counselling Session
  • Intimate Session – A heart-to-heart moment for couples
  • Special Family Budget Session – Practical financial planning for couples
  • Couples Games & Gift Exchange – Fun, bonding activities
  • Valentine Special & Refreshments

Event Details:

📅 Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM Prompt
📍 Venue: Texas Suites and Resorts, Plot C4, Housing Area B, New Owerri Layout (By ISOPADEC Office, Opposite Play Royal, Owerri)
👕 Dress Code: A Touch of RED

Special Offer:

Originally priced at ₦49,999, couples can now secure their spot for just ₦10,000 as part of this special edition.

Payment Details:
💳 Bank: Zenith Bank
🏦 Account Name: Keeping Marriage Alive Initiative
🔢 Account Number: 1013379299

Couples are encouraged to reserve their slots early and give their marriage the gift it deserves this Valentine’s season.

For further inquiries, please contact:
📞 +2347088765212
📧 keepingmarriagealive@gmail.com

# # #

For media requests or interviews, please contact the event organizers at the above-listed details.

Launch of National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN) Paves the Way for Digital Transformation

Launch of National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN) Paves the Way for Digital Transformation

 

The National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN) was officially launched in a bid to promote collaboration and enhance broadband connectivity across the country. The initiative, which seeks to accelerate Nigeria’s digital economy, was introduced with the goal of addressing the country’s broadband infrastructure challenges.

Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, was represented by Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), who delivered the keynote address. Dr. Maida emphasized the government’s commitment to broadband expansion, highlighting the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to achieve the initiative’s objectives.May be an image of 2 people, dais and text

Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), delivered a goodwill message, praising the Federal Government for its proactive step in launching the NBAN. He stressed the necessity of ensuring that broadband connectivity remains affordable and accessible to all Nigerians, to fully harness the benefits of digitalisation for sustainable development.

Dr. Olatunji urged attendees, including representatives from the Federal and State Governments, the private sector, civil society groups, and the media, to embrace the initiative as a critical opportunity for national progress. He highlighted that foreign investors often factor in broadband penetration when making investment decisions, emphasizing the need for adequate infrastructure to attract global capital.

The NDPC CEO also underlined the importance of digital identity as a foundation for successful digitisation in Nigeria. He called for stronger protections for personal data under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, stressing the importance of securing citizens’ information in an increasingly digital world.May be an image of 1 person and text

The launch event attracted several prominent figures from both the public and private sectors. CEOs of major organisations, including Galaxy Backbone, NIPOST, and NIGCOMSAT, were in attendance, alongside other heads of agencies, key stakeholders from civil society groups, and leading figures in Nigeria’s digital economy.

As Nigeria takes a giant step toward becoming a digital economy powerhouse, the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria stands as a crucial initiative that seeks to bridge the country’s digital divide and ensure broad access to reliable and affordable broadband for all.

FG REITERATES COMMITMENT TO TACKLE FOOD INSECURITY

FG REITERATES COMMITMENT TO TACKLE FOOD INSECURITY

 

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing food insecurity and ensuring that no Nigerian goes to bed hungry.

This was disclosed by the Hon. Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, CON, while hosting a delegation from the National Defence College, Kenya, led by Major General (Rtd) Stephen Mutuku, at his office in Abuja.

Sen. Abdullahi explained that the President had tasked the Ministers of Agriculture and Food Security with the critical mandate of addressing food insecurity. He emphasized that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the administration is determined to develop Nigeria’s agricultural sector, which is reflected in the rebranding of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. This change, Abdullahi said, underscores the administration’s commitment to making food security a key focus of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Minister outlined the eight key pillars of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which include food security, poverty eradication, economic growth and job creation, access to capital, and inclusivity. He stressed that food security is a central priority, and the administration is focused on fostering economic growth through diversification, with a special emphasis on creating jobs for Nigeria’s growing youth population. Abdullahi further noted the importance of inclusivity in agriculture, stating that involving women in various value chains would significantly increase productivity.

Additionally, the Minister expressed concern over post-harvest losses, which have contributed to low yields among Nigerian farmers. He affirmed that addressing this issue would help boost agricultural productivity.

Looking ahead to 2025, Abdullahi revealed that the Ministry will roll out more programs with specific targets, beneficiaries, and expected outcomes. He congratulated the delegation for being part of the National Defence College, a prestigious institution, and expressed his confidence that the visit would contribute to understanding national security strategies, including those related to food security.

Earlier, Major General (Rtd) Stephen Mutuku shared that the delegation, comprising Course No. 27, was visiting the western region of Africa to learn from Nigeria’s experiences in security and strategy. He underscored that food security was a central concern for the delegation, as it is integral to ensuring the success of any national security framework.

The event concluded with the presentation of a plaque and the National Defence College Newsletter to the Hon. Minister of State.

SEASONAL CLIMATE PREDICTION WILL BOOST FOOD PRODUCTION – SEN. ABDULLAHI

SEASONAL CLIMATE PREDICTION WILL BOOST FOOD PRODUCTION – SEN. ABDULLAHI

 

The Hon. Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, has emphasized that the timely release of Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) will empower Nigerian farmers with the necessary information for better decision-making and agricultural planning, ultimately enhancing productivity.

Sen. Abdullahi made these remarks during the presentation of the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), themed “The Role of Early Warnings towards a Climate-Resilient Aviation Industry for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development,” by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) in Abuja on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.

He explained that the SCP serves as an essential advisory tool for farmers, offering site-specific downscaling that, when implemented, would boost farmers’ resilience and adaptive capacity to the impacts of climate change. “Early warning systems and climate intelligence are crucial for resilience, adaptation, and economic stability,” said Abdullahi, stressing that the SCP is vital to Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

According to Abdullahi, the agricultural sector contributed 17.22 percent to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product in the first quarter of 2024, with smallholder farmers comprising more than 70 percent of the workforce. He noted that the SCP will help farmers increase productivity, while also addressing issues like poverty, hunger, food insecurity, malnutrition, food imports, and unemployment. Furthermore, it will enhance women’s empowerment in agriculture and improve environmental performance.

The Minister praised the collaboration between NiMet and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in integrating climate intelligence into agricultural practices. He affirmed, “The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is fully supporting and committed to the early warning system, climate-smart agriculture, and all initiatives aimed at achieving food security and a resilient environment.”

Abdullahi also highlighted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has prioritized SCP, with the office of the Presidential Special Envoy on Climate Action designated as the lead negotiator on climate-related matters and the coordination of climate-action initiatives across federal ministries.

FISH-FRIENDLY: Advancing Sustainable Fisheries through Innovative Policies in Africa

FISH-FRIENDLY: Advancing Sustainable Fisheries through Innovative Policies in Africa

The importance of effective policies in fisheries and aquaculture was underscored at the 15th Malabo Montpellier Forum, convened on January 30th, 2025, where Dr. Huyam Salih, Director of the African Union – InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), and staff from the AU-IBAR FishGov2 and Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity in the Africa Blue Economy Projects, joined other stakeholders to deliberate on “FISH-FRIENDLY: Policy Innovations for Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture in Africa.”

 

This high-level dialogue, facilitated by AKADEMIYA2063, highlighted the critical role of policies in advancing agriculture and food security, and emphasized the need for innovative and evidence-based policy approaches to unlock the full potential of the aquaculture sector in Africa. As a vital platform for high-level dialogue among policymakers, the Forum is driven by the latest findings from the Malabo Montpellier Panel, which provides key recommendations for enhancing the aquaculture sector’s contribution to Africa’s food systems, underscoring the importance of policies in promoting sustainable fisheries and aquaculture practices, improving food security, and reducing poverty in Africa.

Dr. Salih highlighted AU-IBAR’s experiences and insights acquired from successfully implementing the Policy Framework and Reform Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture (PFRS) after its approval in 2014. He cited notable achievements under AU-IBAR and partner interventions in the sector, such as regional cooperation efforts through the African Fisheries Reform Mechanism, successful policy development in multiple member states, and the formation of partnerships with academic and research institutions. Dr. Salih further stated that through joint efforts and smart investments, AU-IBAR hopes to empower local communities and stakeholders, fight for equitable trade practices, and secure the long-term growth of Africa’s fisheries and aquaculture industry.

The challenges faced by African countries in implementing the PFRS, including inadequate data collection, insufficient funding, and limited human resources, were shared. Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of overfishing, habitat degradation, and pollution, which are major threats to Africa’s fisheries and aquaculture sector. He stressed that increased investment in research and development, technology transfer, and extension services is necessary to support small-scale fishers and aquaculture producers.

The Director of AU-IBAR also stressed the importance of women in fisheries and aquaculture development, emphasising their contributions to the sector’s growth and sustainability. AU-IBAR’s involvement at the Malabo Montpellier Forum allowed it to share its experiences and lessons learnt in assisting countries with the implementation of the PFRS, as well as make recommendations for future action.

The Malabo Montpellier Forum provides a platform to facilitate dialogue and exchange among high-level decision-makers on African agriculture, nutrition, and food security, and to promote policy innovation using evidence produced by the Malabo Montpellier Panel. The Forum was co-chaired by H.E. Hailemariam Dessalegn Boshe, Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, and H.E. Dr. Assia Ben Salah Alaoui, Ambassador at Large to His Majesty King Mohamed VI of Morocco. The Forum meets twice a year, and every meeting is guided by a technical report prepared by members of the Malabo Montpellier Panel.

The panel report focuses on successful approaches, including institutional, policy, and technical innovations and programmatic interventions among African countries to enhance the role of the aquaculture sector in the transformation of food systems. The report reviewed the current state of the fisheries and aquaculture sector in Africa, the sector’s continental and global policy frameworks, and its policy and strategy priorities in Africa. The report includes four country case studies on Ghana, Malawi, Morocco, and Mozambique – countries that have shown success and progress in growing their fisheries and aquaculture sector.

The Forum consisted of three parts: a technical part drawing on the report’s findings and recommendations; reflections on the outcomes and lessons from the report; and a high-level policy roundtable composed of senior representatives from African governments, academia, development partners, civil society, and the private sector.

The 15th Malabo Montpellier Forum followed COP29 and aligns with the Post-Malabo CAADP Strategy and Action Plan for 2026-2035. The strategy for boosting fisheries and aquaculture in developing resilient food systems further aligns with the Africa Blue Economy Strategy, making the various recommendations timely for action.