Victoria Island, Lagos – Ethnos IT Solutions Ltd, a leading cybersecurity firm located in the bustling heart of Victoria Island, Lagos, has expressed immense pride and admiration for its CEO, Mr. Peter Ejiofor, who has recently been featured in Vanguard’s renowned “Special Focus on 50 Chief Executive Officers of Distinction in Nigeria.”

This exclusive recognition celebrates Nigeria’s most influential and exceptional business leaders who have demonstrated unparalleled vision, commitment, and success in their respective fields. Mr. Ejiofor’s inclusion in this esteemed list is a testament to his daring and ambitious leadership, and his remarkable impact on the cybersecurity industry both within Nigeria and beyond.

As the driving force behind Ethnos IT Solutions Ltd, Mr. Ejiofor has spearheaded numerous groundbreaking initiatives aimed at strengthening the digital security landscape. Under his leadership, the company has gained a reputation for providing cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions to businesses, government organizations, and individuals, ensuring that they remain protected in an increasingly interconnected and vulnerable digital world.No photo description available.

“Being recognized among the top 50 CEOs in Nigeria is not only a personal achievement for Peter, but also a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and collective efforts of the entire team at Ethnos IT Solutions,” the company stated in a press release. “His forward-thinking approach, innovative mindset, and relentless pursuit of excellence have been crucial in positioning Ethnos as a leader in the cybersecurity space.”

Mr. Ejiofor’s leadership is characterized by his ability to navigate challenges with a solution-driven approach, while maintaining a keen focus on fostering growth and development within the company and the broader industry. His strategic direction has enabled Ethnos to remain at the forefront of cybersecurity, continually adapting to emerging threats and advancing technological trends.

In addition to his contributions to cybersecurity, Mr. Ejiofor is also recognized for his mentorship and role in shaping the next generation of leaders in the tech industry. His commitment to excellence extends beyond the corporate world, as he actively participates in various initiatives designed to empower young professionals and entrepreneurs.

Ethnos IT Solutions Ltd’s celebration of Mr. Ejiofor’s accomplishment highlights not only the company’s pride in his leadership but also its deep commitment to its mission of providing state-of-the-art cybersecurity solutions that protect critical assets and foster a secure digital ecosystem.

“We are incredibly proud of his impactful strides and the inspiration he provides to all of us,” the company concluded. “His recognition as one of Nigeria’s top CEOs solidifies his position as an authority in the cybersecurity space and serves as a guiding light for our continued growth and success.”

This distinguished acknowledgment further affirms Mr. Ejiofor’s place as one of Nigeria’s most admired and respected business leaders, and his ongoing contributions will undoubtedly continue to inspire those around him.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

Mr. Ejiofor’s leadership is characterized by his ability to navigate challenges with a solution-driven approach, while maintaining a keen focus on fostering growth and development within the company and the broader industry. His strategic direction has enabled Ethnos to remain at the forefront of cybersecurity, continually adapting to emerging threats and advancing technological trends.

NITDA, AUDA-NEPAD Explore Collaboration to Drive Agricultural Development Through Technology

The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, welcomed the newly appointed National Coordinator of the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD), Hon. Jabiru Abdullahi Tsauri, and his delegation during a courtesy visit to NITDA’s headquarters.

The high-level meeting centered on exploring partnerships aimed at leveraging modern technology to boost agricultural development and enhance workflow efficiency through the strategic use of NITDA’s robust data resources.May be an image of 2 people, dais and text

In his remarks, Kashifu Inuwa underscored NITDA’s commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration, highlighting the critical role of integrating technology with precise knowledge for effective project implementation. “Technology provides the platform, but combining it with accurate information is essential for achieving digital empowerment and driving inclusive economic growth in Nigeria,” he stated.

Hon. Jabiru Abdullahi Tsauri commended NITDA for its strides in advancing Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and emphasized the potential impact of applying these advancements to agriculture and other critical sectors. He expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to transform agricultural productivity and bolster economic resilience.

The meeting concluded with both parties expressing mutual readiness to work together in advancing Nigeria’s digital and agricultural landscapes, ensuring sustainable growth and economic inclusion.May be an image of 6 people, dais and text

 

Airtel Nigeria has emerged as the “Most Preferred and Admired Telecommunications Brand” at the 14th Nigerian NewsDirect Awards, solidifying its position as a leading player in the nation’s telecom industry.

The prestigious recognition was conferred at a glamorous gala held at the Lagos Oriental Hotel over the weekend. The award celebrates Airtel Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to innovation, excellence, and its mission to inspire Nigerians with “A Reason to Imagine.”

In response to the accolade, Airtel Nigeria expressed gratitude to the organizers, Nigerian NewsDirect Newspaper, and its dedicated team for their relentless efforts in delivering exceptional service.

“This remarkable recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for Nigeria. We’re honored and humbled,” the company stated.

The Nigerian NewsDirect Awards are designed to spotlight organizations and individuals driving impactful contributions across industries. Airtel Nigeria’s win underscores its reputation for customer-centric services, technological advancements, and contributions to the socioeconomic development of the country.

With this award, Airtel Nigeria continues to cement its legacy as a brand of choice for millions of Nigerians, reaffirming its commitment to building a connected and prosperous nation.

NIPR and ARCON Sign MoU to Strengthen Regulatory Frameworks and Transform Nigeria’s Marketing Communications Industry

In a landmark development for Nigeria’s marketing communications industry, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) have entered into a strategic partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement aims to bolster regulatory frameworks, enhance collaboration, and create a unified Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) ecosystem in Nigeria.

The signing ceremony, held in Abuja, underscored the commitment of both institutions to advancing professionalism, innovation, and global competitiveness in the communication sector. Dr. Ike Neliaku, the President of NIPR, signed the MoU on behalf of the Institute, while Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, Director-General of ARCON, signed on behalf of the Council.

The event also saw the participation of key industry stakeholders, including Idorenyen Enang, President of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), and several Council Members of NIPR, who lent their support to the milestone agreement.No alt text provided for this image

A Unified Approach to Strengthening the IMC Ecosystem
The partnership between NIPR and ARCON represents a significant step toward unifying the various facets of Nigeria’s marketing communications industry under a comprehensive regulatory framework. By aligning their efforts, the two institutions aim to address overlapping challenges, enforce industry standards, and ensure adherence to ethical practices across public relations, advertising, and other IMC disciplines.

“This collaboration signifies a bold step in strengthening the foundation of our profession and building a communication ecosystem that aligns with global best practices,” said Dr. Ike Neliaku. “Together, we are laying the groundwork for a future where professionalism and innovation drive the communication industry.”

Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo highlighted the importance of the MoU in ensuring Nigeria’s marketing communications industry operates seamlessly and efficiently. “This partnership will foster a more cohesive regulatory environment, one that promotes growth, transparency, and creativity in our industry,” he said.

Implications for the Marketing Communications Industry
The signing of the MoU is expected to have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s IMC landscape. The partnership will provide a platform for collaboration on key initiatives, including capacity-building programs, policy advocacy, and enforcement of professional standards.

By fostering synergies between public relations and advertising, the MoU is poised to unlock new opportunities for professionals, organizations, and businesses in the sector. It also demonstrates a commitment to positioning Nigeria as a leader in the global communication space, ensuring that the industry remains competitive and responsive to evolving market trends.

Stakeholder Support and Industry Impact
The presence of NIMN President Idorenyen Enang and other notable stakeholders at the event underscores the broad support for this initiative. Enang commended the partnership as a much-needed step toward achieving a unified vision for the marketing communications industry.

“This agreement sets the stage for unprecedented collaboration and innovation,” Enang remarked. “It is a testament to the shared vision of NIPR and ARCON to drive excellence and professionalism in our industry.”

The MoU is expected to pave the way for future partnerships between other professional bodies within Nigeria’s marketing communications ecosystem, further strengthening the industry’s regulatory and operational frameworks.

As NIPR and ARCON chart this new course together, industry stakeholders are optimistic that the partnership will catalyze transformative growth, positioning Nigeria’s marketing communications sector as a beacon of excellence on the global stage.

 

Bali, Indonesia – Communication professionals, academics, and enthusiasts from across the globe recently gathered at the Indonesian island city of Bali for the 12th World Public Relations Forum (WPRF). Organized by the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, the forum showcased the theme, “Purposeful Influence for the Common Good”, drawing attention to the role of ethics, innovation, and inclusivity in shaping the future of public relations and communication management.

Among the standout sessions at the event was one moderated by Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, fnipr, fapra, Head of Media Relations at the Nigerian Communications Commission, titled “Legal Frameworks for Strengthening PR and Communication Management Practice.” Speaking on the session’s objectives, Dr. Ibietan stated, “In today’s dynamic communication landscape, understanding legal frameworks, ethical standards, and emerging technologies is crucial for professionals seeking to balance the public’s need for information with responsible and compliant practices.”No alt text provided for this image

Insights from Global Leaders

The session featured prominent panelists, including Arik Karani, President of the African Public Relations Association (APRA); Dr. Suleiman Haruna, Director of PR at Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation; Gladys Diaz of Puerto Rico; and Peter Mutie, a former APRA President. Discussions revolved around the challenges and opportunities posed by artificial intelligence, intellectual property rights, defamation laws, and other legal and digital realities.

Reflecting on the conversation, Dr. Ibietan emphasized, “One of the key takeaways was the need for PR professionals to self-regulate and continually educate themselves about the evolving legal and cultural landscapes. This is essential for navigating ethical dilemmas while fostering creativity and innovation.”

Ethics at the Forefront

A recurring theme throughout the forum was the centrality of ethics in public relations. Dr. Ibietan highlighted this, noting, “Ethics is the foundation of our profession—it is about going beyond societal norms to set standards of behavior that inspire trust and credibility. In an era of disinformation and privacy concerns, practitioners must prioritize ethical practices to maintain public confidence.”

He further pointed out the balancing act required of professionals: “As communicators, we must address the public’s thirst for timely and accurate information while avoiding the ethical and legal landmines that could undermine our efforts. This responsibility demands a commitment to integrity and thoughtful decision-making.”

 

“As communicators, we must address the public’s thirst for timely and accurate information while avoiding the ethical and legal landmines that could undermine our efforts. This responsibility demands a commitment to integrity and thoughtful decision-making.”No alt text provided for this image

Preparing for a Sustainable Future

The forum also delved into strategies for leveraging soft power, including cultural inclusivity, compassionate leadership, and collaborative approaches to drive sustainable brand success. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) alongside environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations were identified as critical factors in fostering long-term reputation management.

Dr. Ibietan remarked on the importance of innovation and continuous learning: “The trailblazers of tomorrow will be those who dare to innovate responsibly, who intentionally build meaningful relationships, and who leverage AI and other technologies ethically. These leaders will understand the power of demographics, psychographics, and insights in crafting impactful messages.”

A Global Call to Action

The WPRF 2024 also highlighted the importance of empowering rural communities and integrating structured PR education into academia to ensure the next generation of practitioners is well-equipped to navigate the industry’s complexities.

Summing up the forum’s significance, Dr. Ibietan said, “This year’s event underscored the transformative potential of communication as a force for good. By anchoring our practices in ethics, inclusivity, and innovation, we can create a world where public relations is not only a tool for information but a catalyst for positive change.”

As the WPRF concluded, participants left inspired by the call to use their influence purposefully to foster global good and drive sustainable progress in communication management.

 

Chinyere Okorocha, an accomplished lawyer, speaker, and advocate for women’s career mentorship, recently shared her reflections on a successful year with the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN). As the organization’s Treasurer and a vital member of the executive team, Okorocha highlighted the coalition’s achievements in transforming healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

“The recent Executive Committee meeting was a testament to the passion and dedication of this coalition of private-sector healthcare professionals, united in their mission to transform healthcare delivery in Nigeria,” Okorocha noted.

She commended the HFN’s 2024 accomplishments, which included groundbreaking initiatives and impactful advocacy aimed at achieving universal health coverage and affordable healthcare for all Nigerians.No alternative text description for this image

Leadership and Teamwork
Okorocha praised the vision and dedication of her fellow executive members, including President Dr. Pamela Ajayi, Vice President Njide Ndili, Publicity Secretary Abimbola Adebakin, and Financial Secretary Segun Ebitanmi.

“As we gear up for 2025, I am inspired by the vision and commitment of my fellow executive members. Together, we will continue to drive innovation and make meaningful contributions to healthcare in Nigeria,” she stated.

A Call to Action for Innovation and Progress
Looking ahead, Okorocha expressed her optimism for the future, reaffirming the HFN’s commitment to fostering innovation, advocacy, and collaboration in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

With her proven track record in elevating organizations to international recognition and championing mentorship and empowerment initiatives, Okorocha’s contributions to the HFN’s mission remain invaluable.

As she aptly concluded, “Here’s to another year of positive impact and progress!”

Wentors, a leading organization dedicated to advancing women in technology, is proud to announce the launch of Wentors 2.0 – a transformative platform offering highly personalized mentorship, exclusive networking opportunities, and workforce development programs for women. Applications are now open year-round, with participants encouraged to apply by January 18, 2025 to take advantage of available scholarship opportunities. Wentors 2.0 aims to strengthen the global tech ecosystem by equipping women with the tools, guidance, and resources they need to excel.

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Wentors 2.0 launch

 

The gender gap in technology continues to be a significant challenge, magnified by the rapid advancements in AI. Since its inception, Wentors has been dedicated to bridging this divide, impacting over 10,000 women and delivering more than 100,000 hours of mentorship to over 3,000 mentees. Now, as AI reshapes industries worldwide, Wentors 2.0 is stepping up with renewed focus and urgency to empower women to thrive in the evolving tech workforce and lead the way in closing the gap.

“With Wentors 2.0, we’re creating a world where women in tech feel seen, supported, and unstoppable,” said EduAbasi Chukwunweike, Founder of Wentors. “It’s about breaking barriers, unlocking potential, and showing every woman that she has what it takes to thrive. This is a movement you should watch out for, the future of women in technology starts here.”

Tailored for Every Career Stage

Wentors 2.0 offers two membership tiers designed to support participants at different stages of their careers:

Foundational Program: For beginners or aspiring tech professionals, and women transitioning into tech –

  • Monthly power sessions with senior tech leaders
  • Skill mastery through curated learning paths
  • LinkedIn profile optimization for professional visibility
  • Access to the Tech Innovators Network, fostering a supportive community

 

Pro Membership: For experienced professionals –

  • One-on-one mentorship with top industry professionals
  • Access to industry-recognized certifications
  • Advanced workshops on personal branding and networking strategies
  • Invitations to exclusive networking opportunities and events

 

Expanding Accessibility

Speaking at the program’s launch, Flapmax, a key AI development partner, emphasized its commitment to the initiative. “Skill mastery, certifications, and advanced bootcamps all offered by Wentors are the building blocks of thriving tech careers, and Wentors 2.0 delivers these in spades. We believe in this mission, which is why we are proud to offer scholarship opportunities to ensure greater accessibility for women everywhere.”

Inclusivity is at the core of Wentors 2.0, welcoming women from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of experience. The program pairs participants with mentors who align with their goals and career aspirations, delivering tailored learning experiences that boost confidence, nurture growth, and advance careers.

Applications Now Open

Applications for Wentors 2.0 are now open year-round, with participants encouraged to apply by January 18, 2025 to take advantage of available scholarships. While the program operates on a rolling basis, participants will join structured cohorts designed to maximize collaboration and learning opportunities.

To apply and for more information, visit https://premium.wentors.com

 

President Bola Tinubu, on Thursday, urged the People’s Republic of China to expand the existing $2 billion currency swap agreement with Nigeria and review its $50 billion aid package for Africa to address the continent’s growing infrastructural needs.

Speaking during a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of enhancing trade and strategic bilateral relations between the two nations.

“We still demand more in the area of currency swap. The level you have approved as a government for Nigeria is inadequate considering our programme. If you can increase that, it will be well appreciated. Our bond should grow stronger and become unbreakable,” the President stated.

The renewed currency swap agreement, valued at 15 billion yuan (approximately $2 billion), is intended to boost trade and investment between Nigeria and China. However, President Tinubu stressed the need for a higher swap amount to fast-track Nigeria’s infrastructural development.

Call for a Review of the $50 Billion Aid Package
President Tinubu highlighted the insufficiency of the $50 billion aid pledged by China for Africa, urging an upward review to reflect the continent’s developmental realities.

“We want you to use your position to influence improved project funding. The infrastructural needs of Africa are greater than what has been pledged. We seek deeper collaboration for infrastructural development to move as rapidly as other regions,” he noted.

UN Security Council and BRICS Membership
President Tinubu also solicited China’s support for Nigeria’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

“You are a member of the UN Security Council. We want you to use your influence to ensure Nigeria secures the seat,” he appealed.

Additionally, the President expressed interest in Nigeria joining BRICS and participating in global development mechanisms.

Strengthening Nigeria-China Relations
President Tinubu praised President Xi Jinping’s efforts in strengthening Nigeria-China relations and commended the Chinese government’s response to the recent earthquake in Tibet. He also highlighted Nigeria’s readiness to meet developmental goals, citing the appointment of Mr. Joseph Tegbe as Director General and Global Liaison for Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership to oversee the implementation of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs).

Chinese Foreign Minister’s Remarks
In his response, Minister Wang Yi thanked Nigeria for its commitment to the one-China principle and pledged China’s continued support for Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He affirmed that Chinese investments in Nigeria would focus on employment generation and infrastructural development, noting that the Chinese National Development Bank had begun funding key projects in the country.

Yi also expressed China’s support for including an African country in the UN Security Council, calling it “a historical injustice that must be corrected.”

The foreign minister further congratulated President Tinubu on his visionary leadership, which he said had enhanced Nigeria’s global influence and stability.

“You brought Renewed Hope to the people of Nigeria. Your economy has sustained sound momentum, and Nigeria’s global influence has steadily increased,” Yi remarked.

 

The Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF) has launched an aggressive revenue drive aimed at addressing the revenue shortfalls affecting the nation’s economy. This initiative has significantly enhanced the funding of personnel costs, overheads, and capital expenditures in 2024.

The Accountant General of the Federation, Dr. Mrs. Oluwatoyin Madein, disclosed this during an oversight visit by the Federal House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts to the Treasury House in Abuja on January 8, 2024.

Dr. Madein, who assumed office in May 2023, highlighted key achievements under her leadership. Among these is the preparation and audit of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) Consolidated Financial Statements (CFS) up to December 31, 2019. “In collaboration with the Auditor-General of the Federation, we have prepared and audited the 2020 and 2021 CFS, while work on the 2022 statement is ongoing,” she noted.

However, Dr. Madein identified challenges hindering the timely completion of the 2022 CFS. “The delay is due to issues in reconciling the Consolidated Revenue Fund’s bank statements with the Central Bank of Nigeria,” she explained.

The AGF also revealed ongoing proposals to enhance the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) and the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). These improvements aim to make the systems more robust, with support and cooperation from the National Assembly.

In response, the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts, Hon. Bamidele Salam, urged the AGF to expedite the submission of the 2022 CFS, as mandated by the 1999 Constitution.

Hon. Salam also addressed concerns about low revenue remittances by government-owned enterprises, emphasizing the need for stricter measures. “To block revenue leakages, we must automate processes and conduct regular audits,” he stated.

The AGF’s aggressive revenue drive, coupled with planned system enhancements and legislative oversight, signals a concerted effort to strengthen Nigeria’s public financial management and address critical funding challenges.

 

The Federal Government has taken a bold step to revolutionize public service delivery in Nigeria by partnering with Niche Customer Experience Consulting Firm. This strategic alliance was formalized on Thursday in Abuja through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) and the consulting firm.

A key outcome of this partnership will be the inaugural Nigerian National Public Service Experience Conference, set to take place in 2025. The conference will convene public service officials from across the nation, offering a platform for reflection, reinvention, and inspiration. It aims to challenge outdated practices while fostering innovative approaches to governance.

Speaking at the MoU signing, Mr. Ibrahim Dasuki Arabi, Director General of the BPSR, highlighted the transformative potential of the collaboration. “This partnership is about reshaping and reimagining the delivery of public service in Nigeria. By leveraging the private sector’s capacity for innovation and customer focus, we aim to build a public service that truly meets the needs of all Nigerians,” he stated.

The partnership’s scope includes initiatives such as:

  • Nationwide research to understand citizens’ expectations regarding public services.
  • Capacity-building workshops to empower public servants with modern tools and techniques.

Onome Akwara, Founder of Niche Customer Experience Consulting Firm, underscored the transformative power of customer-centric reforms. “This partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence and a belief that by working together, we can achieve transformative results,” she remarked.

The Federal Government’s commitment to public service reforms demonstrates its focus on improving governance and rebuilding trust in public institutions. Mr. Arabi reiterated this sentiment: “Our actions will shape how Nigerians experience governance and trust public institutions.”

With this partnership, the stage is set for a new era of public service delivery in Nigeria—one that prioritizes innovation, efficiency, and citizen satisfaction.