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NDPC CEO Honored at High-Tech Centre’s 20th Anniversary and Awards Ceremony

NDPC CEO Honored at High-Tech Centre’s 20th Anniversary and Awards Ceremony

 

The National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji, was celebrated at the 20th Anniversary and High-Tech Awards Ceremony, organized by the High-Tech Centre for Nigerian Women and Girls. Representing Dr. Olatunji at the event was Mrs. Abiola Jide-Abe, the Commission’s Head of Strategic Partnership and Communications.

Addressing attendees, Mrs. Jide-Abe delivered a goodwill message from Dr. Olatunji, reaffirming the NDPC’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding data privacy and protection across Nigeria. She highlighted the critical importance of understanding the data protection ecosystem and encouraged participants to develop the skills necessary to harness its vast opportunities.

Dr. Wumi Hassan, the convener of the event, lauded Dr. Olatunji for his visionary leadership and relentless dedication to advancing data privacy and protection in the country. She expressed gratitude for his consistent support, emphasizing the significant impact of his efforts in fostering technological growth and empowerment, especially among women and youth.

In recognition of his exemplary contributions, Dr. Olatunji was presented with the prestigious “High-Tech Trailblazer and Motivator” award, honoring his outstanding advocacy for technology and STEM development in Nigeria.

 

NCC Debunks Tariff Increase Speculations

NCC Debunks Tariff Increase Speculations

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has refuted claims circulating in the media about an impending increase in service tariffs by telecommunications providers, scheduled for January 2025. The Commission clarified that no official approval has been granted for any such tariff adjustments.

Reliable sources within the NCC emphasized that the Commission adheres to a rigorous, evidence-based, and data-driven process for tariff modifications, ensuring any changes align with regulatory standards and public interest.

Similarly, officials from the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy dismissed the reports, describing them as unfounded and misleading. A senior official from the Ministry noted, “These claims are entirely untrue and uncalled for. Only a properly constituted board of the NCC has the authority to approve tariff increases, and such a decision has not been made.”

Investigations by Tech and Biz News NG revealed that the speculations are baseless, likely stemming from desperate attempts by some people to pressure for a tariff hike through unofficial means.

The NCC reiterated its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in all its regulatory activities, urging stakeholders and the public to disregard unverified claims while assuring that any tariff adjustments would follow established guidelines and involve extensive consultations.

 

NCC in 2024: Putting Subscribers First and Driving Telecom Growth

NCC in 2024: Putting Subscribers First and Driving Telecom Growth

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been a game-changer in 2024, reaffirming its commitment to Nigerian subscribers and the telecom industry. Addressing recent speculations about a tariff hike, the Commission has reassured Nigerians that they remain at the heart of its decisions.

This year, the NCC has taken bold steps to ensure that subscribers enjoy improved services and better protection. For instance, it mandated telecom providers to resolve customer complaints within 30 minutes at service centers, saving subscribers time and enhancing their overall experience.

The Commission has also been instrumental in expanding broadband access across the country. With its drive to achieve 70% broadband penetration by 2025, millions of Nigerians now have better access to affordable and reliable internet, creating opportunities for businesses, education, and social inclusion.

One of the standout achievements this year has been the NCC’s efforts to promote digital inclusion. Through partnerships and campaigns, the Commission has brought internet services to underserved communities, giving more Nigerians a chance to participate in the digital economy.

Cybersecurity has also been a top priority. With the increasing reliance on digital platforms, the NCC introduced stronger measures to protect subscribers from online threats, ensuring that the digital space remains safe for all users.

Economically, the NCC has created a vibrant environment for growth. By fostering competition and attracting new investments, it has helped reduce costs for subscribers while keeping the industry robust and innovative.

In response to rumors of tariff hikes, the NCC has reassured Nigerians that any decisions about tariffs will be transparent and in line with the realities of the economy. The Commission encourages subscribers to ignore unverified information and trust in its dedication to their welfare.

As the year progresses, the NCC continues to prove that it is not just a regulator but a partner to Nigerians, ensuring that the telecom sector remains dynamic, inclusive, and subscriber-focused.

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu.

 

NITDA DG Advocates AI for Sectoral Productivity at Jigawa Workshop Finale

NITDA DG Advocates AI for Sectoral Productivity at Jigawa Workshop Finale

 

Jigawa State recently hosted the grand finale of the five-day workshop titled “The Workshop of the Future,” where Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), delivered a keynote address highlighting the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in critical sectors.

Organized by Futuremap Foundation in partnership with NITDA, Jigawa ICT & Digital Economy, Cosmopolitan University, OpenSchool, and Huawei, the workshop focused on the role of AI in enhancing productivity across agriculture, health, education, energy, and climate change. The event also spotlighted design thinking as an essential framework for addressing complex societal challenges.

In his address, Inuwa unveiled plans for a fellowship programme aimed at cultivating local talent to develop digital solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique challenges. This initiative, he noted, will reduce reliance on external expertise and align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The agenda emphasizes industrialization, digitization, creative arts, manufacturing, and innovation as key drivers of national diversification and economic growth.

The workshop reaffirmed the importance of leveraging digital transformation and AI to tackle challenges in critical sectors, marking a significant step toward sustainable development and technological advancement in Nigeria.

 

Moppet Foods CEO Advocates for Healthier Baby Nutrition

Moppet Foods CEO Advocates for Healthier Baby Nutrition

Engr. Roberta Edu, the Founder and CEO of Moppet Baby Food, has reiterated her commitment to providing healthy, organic nutrition for infants amid growing concerns about the quality of some imported baby food brands available in Africa.

Reacting to recent discussions sparked by a foreign doctor’s review of a popular international baby formula, Edu stated, “A lot of people have sent me WhatsApp videos and tagged me on Facebook regarding this product. However, I don’t engage in drag marketing. Moppet Foods isn’t even actively seeking new customers; we’re consistently sold out.”

She highlighted the intense demand for her company’s products, emphasizing, “Our factory is operational as we speak, and workers are busy producing items to fulfill outstanding orders from last year’s holiday season. The demand is a testament to parents who prioritize their children’s health by choosing Moppet Baby Food.”

Edu revealed that Moppet Foods’ success comes largely from organic reach and website-driven sales, adding, “I haven’t posted about Moppet in a while, and we’ve even turned off our advertisements. Yet, digital sales remain massive.”

In an effort to educate parents, Edu urged them to scrutinize the ingredients of baby food products. “Look at the ingredients list on any baby formula you’re using. If you see names that don’t represent real food, those are additives and chemicals. At Moppet, all our products are made with biofortified, natural, organic ingredients – real grains, real fruits, and real vegetables. We add no chemicals, ensuring that babies get the best nutrition.”

Concluding her statement, Edu reassured parents, “Moppet is real food for real babies.”

Moppet Baby Food, a proudly Nigerian company, continues to set the standard for safe, nutritious, and organic baby food options, empowering parents to make healthier choices for their children.

 

Opinion: The Problem with Marrying for Convenience

Opinion: The Problem with Marrying for Convenience

 

In the age of fast-track success and transactional relationships, the idea of marriage for convenience has resurfaced as a trend—especially among those seeking professional or geographical advantages. This issue, explored by Mazi Ogbonnaya Okoro, a U.S.-based researcher, challenges us to reconsider what marriage truly means.

Okoro recounts how, in years past, Nigerian men abroad scouted nursing schools in search of wives—women who could guarantee them not just companionship but also a ticket to the “better life.” Mothers, friends, and even enemies would hunt for these “ideal” wives, prioritizing profession over personality. But is this approach sustainable? Are we marrying a nurse or a life partner?

This mindset wasn’t limited to men. Female medical students in universities often held themselves as trophies to be won only by “abroad men.” For many families, marrying their daughters to these men was seen as a passport to prosperity. But times are changing. Women are now charting their own paths—earning scholarships, traveling abroad independently, and achieving success without being tethered to the narrative of “I took you abroad.”

Marriage: A Partnership, Not a Transaction

Marriage, as Okoro argues, should be about love, partnership, and growth. It should focus on shared values, trust, and mutual support—not on professions or financial gains. When two people genuinely love each other and align their goals, issues like bank balances become secondary. The foundation of marriage lies in where both partners are headed, not where they currently stand.

The dangers of entering marriage with a survival mindset cannot be overstated. Whether driven by profession, location, or financial stability, such unions often lead to dissatisfaction and, ultimately, failure. Okoro highlights the flaws in these transactional marriages, where professions overshadow personalities, leaving couples as “two enemies living together.”

The Role of Selfishness

The rationale for such marriages often boils down to selfishness. Men and women alike justify their actions, citing financial pressures or societal expectations. “If women marry for selfishness, men should too,” some argue. But this mindset reduces marriage to a calculated exchange, void of the emotional and moral foundation it requires.

Okoro’s experience with Igbo-American professionals in 2018 illustrates this point. Many men expressed interest in women solely based on their professions—nurses, doctors, or citizens. When Okoro refused to matchmake or “pimp,” he was ridiculed. But he stood firm, valuing genuine connections over convenience.

A Flawed Foundation

Marriages built on superficial motives—profession, status, or financial gain—are bound to face challenges. Okoro’s critique is not against marrying someone with a profession but against placing professions above essential qualities like trust, respect, and shared values.

The reality is that many marriages today are transactional. Partners see each other as stepping stones rather than life companions. This flawed foundation is why many marriages fail, with couples finding themselves trapped in unfulfilling relationships.

A Call for Reflection

Okoro’s argument is clear: marriage should not be a convenience store transaction. It is a partnership rooted in shared goals, mutual respect, and a vision for the future. Whether you choose to marry or remain single, the decision should stem from genuine intent, not societal pressure or personal gain.

Ultimately, the choice of whom to marry rests with each individual. But for those willing to listen, Okoro’s words serve as a reminder to prioritize authenticity over convenience—because a marriage of convenience often brings nothing but inconvenience.

 

Best Practices for Secure Cloud Infrastructure in Africa and the Global Digital Landscape

Best Practices for Secure Cloud Infrastructure in Africa and the Global Digital Landscape

 

 

As the world increasingly shifts towards digital transformation, organizations globally, including those in Africa, are rapidly adopting cloud technologies for their scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. While the cloud provides unmatched opportunities for innovation, it also introduces significant security challenges. Protecting sensitive data, maintaining compliance, and ensuring business continuity in the cloud have become top priorities for organizations operating across industries.

For businesses in Africa and beyond, implementing secure cloud infrastructures is crucial to mitigate the risks associated with cyber threats, data breaches, and system failures. As cloud adoption grows exponentially, it is essential that African organizations align their practices with global standards to safeguard digital assets and build trust with clients and stakeholders.

  1. Implement a Robust Identity and Access Management (IAM) System

Effective identity and access management (IAM) is the foundation of any secure cloud infrastructure. A robust IAM system ensures that only authorized users can access critical data and services. This is especially vital in regions like Africa, where the rise in cybercrime demands stronger security measures. The key IAM best practices include:

  • Principle of Least Privilege: Ensure users and applications have the minimum permissions necessary to perform their tasks. By restricting access to sensitive information, you minimize the potential attack surface.
  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Use MFA for all user accounts to add an extra layer of security beyond traditional passwords. This is crucial in safeguarding cloud resources from unauthorized access.
  • Regular Access Audits: Continuous monitoring and regular reviews of user access help prevent misuse and ensure compliance with security protocols.
  1. Encrypt Data at Rest and in Transit

Data protection is at the core of cloud security, and encryption is one of the most powerful tools available. Encrypting data both at rest (when stored) and in transit (when transferred over networks) ensures that sensitive information is shielded from unauthorized access.

  • Data at Rest Encryption: Cloud providers often encrypt stored data by default, but businesses should also implement additional encryption measures to ensure that even if data is compromised, it remains unreadable.
  • Data in Transit Encryption: Use strong encryption protocols, such as Transport Layer Security (TLS), to secure data while it is being transferred between systems. This prevents interception and tampering of data as it moves across networks.

As African countries begin to implement more data protection regulations like the Data Protection Act in Nigeria and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU, data encryption is not only a best practice, but a legal requirement.

  1. Leverage Cloud-Native Firewalls and Network Segmentation

Protecting your cloud environment from external and internal threats requires robust firewall systems and the careful segmentation of your network infrastructure.

  • Cloud-Native Firewalls: Use firewalls that are specifically designed for the cloud to monitor incoming and outgoing traffic. These tools help to block malicious traffic and identify unusual behavior, ensuring that only legitimate users can access cloud resources.
  • Network Segmentation: Isolate critical infrastructure and sensitive data into separate virtual networks or subnets. By creating boundaries, you limit the impact of potential breaches and prevent attackers from moving freely within your cloud environment.

Network segmentation is particularly important in Africa, where many countries are working to enhance the cybersecurity posture of enterprises amidst growing threats.

  1. Automate Security Monitoring and Threat Detection

Given the dynamic nature of cloud environments, manual monitoring and security checks are no longer sufficient. Automation plays a critical role in real-time threat detection and response.

  • Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM): Implement CSPM tools to automatically scan your cloud infrastructure for misconfigurations and policy violations. This allows you to continuously monitor your environment and prevent potential risks.
  • Automated Alerts: Setting up automated security alerts will notify your team of suspicious activities, such as abnormal login attempts, unauthorized access, or unusual data flows, allowing for faster response times.

Automation not only increases security but also reduces the burden on your IT team, enabling them to focus on more complex issues.

  1. Regularly Update and Patch Cloud Systems

The security of cloud infrastructures relies heavily on the timely application of patches and updates. Cloud services frequently update their platforms, but businesses must also ensure that their custom applications and virtual machines are regularly patched.

  • Patch Management: Implement a patch management system that automatically applies the latest security updates to all cloud-based systems, ensuring vulnerabilities are addressed before they can be exploited.
  • Automated Updates: Where possible, automate the update process to reduce human error and minimize the time between the release of security patches and their application.

In Africa, where organizations are often at risk of cyberattacks from malicious actors, this practice is essential to maintaining secure systems and avoiding costly breaches.

  1. Ensure Comprehensive Backup and Disaster Recovery Plans

While cloud providers generally offer high levels of redundancy and data replication, businesses must have their own backup and disaster recovery plans in place. This ensures that even in the event of a breach, failure, or data loss, organizations can quickly restore operations.

  • Regular Backups: Schedule frequent backups of critical data and store them securely in different geographic regions or availability zones. This ensures that data is not lost in case of a regional disaster or system failure.
  • Disaster Recovery (DR) Testing: Regularly test your DR processes to ensure that they work as expected and data can be restored quickly in the event of a failure.

Africa’s unique challenges, including power instability and limited internet access in some regions, make a comprehensive disaster recovery plan all the more crucial.

  1. Comply with Industry Regulations and Standards

Compliance with industry regulations and global standards is not just a legal requirement; it also provides a framework for securing cloud infrastructures. Organizations must adhere to relevant frameworks to ensure that their cloud services meet high standards for security, availability, and confidentiality.

  • GDPR: For businesses operating in or with the EU, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) mandates strict security measures for handling personal data.
  • ISO/IEC 27001: This international standard sets out the criteria for an information security management system (ISMS), helping organizations establish a framework for managing sensitive company information.
  • SOC 2: Ensures that cloud providers meet high standards for security, availability, and confidentiality.

By complying with these standards, African businesses can demonstrate their commitment to securing sensitive data, helping to build trust with international partners and clients.

  1. Train Your Workforce and Promote Security Awareness

A cloud infrastructure is only as secure as the people managing it. Human error is often the root cause of security breaches, making regular training and awareness essential.

  • Security Training: Ensure that employees are trained on how to recognize phishing attacks, how to securely handle sensitive data, and how to follow best practices for cloud security.
  • Regular Awareness Campaigns: Continuous training and simulated security exercises will help reinforce security practices and reduce the likelihood of breaches caused by human error.

In Africa, where the tech talent pool is still developing, educating the workforce about cybersecurity is essential for building a sustainable and secure digital ecosystem.

Conclusion

As cloud adoption continues to rise in Africa and globally, securing cloud infrastructure remains one of the most critical challenges for organizations. By following best practices in identity management, data encryption, network segmentation, and compliance, organizations across Africa and beyond can protect themselves from evolving cyber threats and maintain the integrity of their systems.

The future of cloud security lies in adopting a proactive and holistic approach — one that leverages cutting-edge technologies, such as automation and AI, while adhering to global standards. By doing so, organizations can unlock the full potential of the cloud while safeguarding their data and maintaining trust with customers and stakeholders.

 

 

About the Author

Chidera Onuchukwu is a highly skilled Software Engineer, specializing in software security and cloud technologies. As one of the most well-recognized figures in Africa’s tech space, she has earned multiple awards for her work in shaping the cloud infrastructure and software security landscape. Her technical expertise has had a profound impact on enterprises across Africa, where she has helped improve the security of critical systems and enabled businesses to scale securely in the digital age.

Her contributions to the global tech community are widely recognized, and she continues to be a driving force behind the adoption of secure cloud practices both within Africa and globally. In addition to her technical accomplishments, Chidera is also an advocate for women, mentorship and education, striving to empower the next generation of African tech leaders and women.

 

Olayemi Odufeso Appointed as Managing Director of ChamsAccess Limited, Sets Vision for Growth and Innovation

Olayemi Odufeso Appointed as Managing Director of ChamsAccess Limited, Sets Vision for Growth and Innovation

 

ChamsAccess Limited, a leading subsidiary of Chams HoldCo. Plc and a key player in the digital technology and biometric solutions industry, has announced the appointment of Olayemi Odufeso as its new Managing Director. The appointment signals a new era for the company, which has consistently delivered cutting-edge solutions in identity management, financial technology, and digital security.

In her acceptance statement, Odufeso reflected on the responsibility and opportunity the role brings. “I am delighted to assume this position, which not only represents a significant milestone in my career but also offers a platform to drive impactful change and innovation,” she said.

She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the leadership of Chams HoldCo. Plc, acknowledging the instrumental roles of Sir Demola Aladekomo, Founder of Chams HoldCo. Plc, and Mrs. Mayowa Olaniyan, fWIMBOARD, Group Managing Director of Chams HoldCo. Plc. “Their unwavering belief in my abilities and consistent mentorship have been pivotal to my journey,” Odufeso noted. She also thanked Sir Ayobola Abiola, Chairman of the Board of Directors at ChamsAccess Ltd., and the entire board for creating an enabling environment that fosters growth and impactful contributions.

A special mention was reserved for her predecessor, Dumebi Obodo, whose guidance and support ensured a seamless leadership transition. Odufeso further commended the team at ChamsAccess Limited, describing them as “a dynamic force of zeal, dedication, and passion, whose contributions fuel the company’s collective achievements.”

Odufeso also highlighted the company’s partnerships with global technology giants such as DERMALOG Identification Systems GmbH, Zebra Technologies, and Giesecke+Devrient, along with numerous other collaborators. These partnerships, she emphasized, have been instrumental in achieving the company’s strategic objectives and maintaining its leadership in the biometric and digital technology space.

Reflecting on the journey so far, Odufeso shared valuable insights into her leadership philosophy. “The past year has been one of immense growth, productive partnerships, and transformative collaborations,” she said. “It has reinforced my belief in the power of optimism, resilience, and perseverance in overcoming challenges.” She acknowledged the complexities of navigating the business landscape but underscored the rewards of trusting the process and staying true to the mission.

Looking ahead, Odufeso envisions a future defined by growth, innovation, and impact. Under her leadership, ChamsAccess Limited aims to expand its portfolio, strengthen its partnerships, and continue delivering world-class solutions to its clients. She called for collective effort and collaboration, stating, “The journey ahead is one we must embark on together—our combined efforts will shape the success of ChamsAccess Limited and redefine our contributions to the industry.”

Odufeso concluded her remarks with a message of inspiration for those pursuing their dreams. “The challenges may seem daunting, but with resilience, faith, and determination, even the most intimidating goals can be achieved. Today, I celebrate not just a personal milestone, but also the promise of what lies ahead for our organization and the industry as a whole.”

With Odufeso at the helm, ChamsAccess Limited is poised to enhance its legacy of excellence, foster innovation, and maintain its standing as a leader in the digital solutions and biometrics industry.

MINISTER OF STATE FOR DEFENCE COMMENDS GUARDS BRIGADE FOR EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE IN SECURING THE SEAT OF GOVERNMENT

MINISTER OF STATE FOR DEFENCE COMMENDS GUARDS BRIGADE FOR EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE IN SECURING THE SEAT OF GOVERNMENT

 

 

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle MON, has expressed profound appreciation for the unwavering commitment and exemplary efforts of the Commander, officers, and personnel of the Guards Brigade in safeguarding the Federal Capital Territory and its environs.

In his remarks as the Special Guest of Honour at the 2024 West African Social Activity (WASA 2024) held in Abuja, the Minister stated, “Your loyalty, sacrifice, and dedication in executing your Presidential security duties, coordinating ceremonial parades, and managing operational challenges are commendable. Your proactive approach in addressing security threats has ensured the safety of the Presidency as well as that of citizens, visitors, and diplomats alike. I urge you to continue embodying compassion and empathy in your operations, striving for excellence in all your responsibilities.”

The Minister highlighted that the WASA event serves as a vibrant testament to the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria, as showcased by the personnel and families of the Guards Brigade. “The traditional dances and local delicacies on display tonight not only enhance our appreciation of our diverse cultures but also play a crucial role in preserving our cultural heritage and distinct identity,” he added.

In conclusion, the Minister called upon the Guards Brigade to uphold the trust placed in them by consistently meeting the challenges of their duties and ensuring that the flag of the Nigerian Armed Forces continues to fly high.

Earlier, Major General Adebisi Onosayan, Commander of the Guards Brigade, delivered a welcome address expressing gratitude to the President for his unwavering support of the Brigade’s operations, training, and welfare. “Thank you, Your Excellency. I also wish to extend my sincere appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Army Staff for their relentless guidance and support. We pledge our unwavering loyalty and readiness to contribute effectively to the security of lives and property in the Federal Capital Territory and its surroundings,” he emphasized.

General Onosayan further noted that the 2024 WASA highlights the social diversity, cultural identity, values, beliefs, and rich heritage of the Nigerian people, resonating with the ethos of the Nigerian Army. “This event provides an opportunity to showcase various cultural dances, traditional cuisines, languages, attire, and ethnic groups of our great nation in a relaxed atmosphere,” he stated, adding that today’s event marks the Brigade’s Grand Finale.

ThinkCyber Nigeria Achieves Global Certification Milestone with City & Guilds Partnership

ThinkCyber Nigeria Achieves Global Certification Milestone with City & Guilds Partnership

 

ThinkCyber Nigeria Ltd, one of Nigeria’s foremost capacity-building firms specializing in cybersecurity solutions for individuals, institutions, and corporations, has announced a major upgrade to its certification programs. Through its newly established partnership with the prestigious City & Guilds organization in Europe, ThinkCyber’s certificates are now globally recognized, offering trainees enhanced career prospects worldwide.

Speaking on the development, Ikem Michael Uche, Country Director of ThinkCyber Nigeria, emphasized the organization’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge training. He revealed that ThinkCyber has introduced advanced modules on AI Fundamentals and Security Maturity, equipping participants with the expertise to navigate the growing integration of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity and to tackle emerging threats effectively.

In addition, ThinkCyber’s proprietary Specto platform has undergone significant upgrades, offering a more immersive and practical learning experience. These enhancements are designed to sharpen participants’ skills in areas such as penetration testing, Security Operations Center (SOC) analysis, and Windows forensics, ensuring they are well-prepared for industry challenges.

Uche also noted that the integration of City & Guilds certification underscores the value of ThinkCyber’s programs, granting graduates access to global career opportunities and cementing the firm’s reputation as a leader in cybersecurity education.

This milestone reaffirms ThinkCyber’s dedication to equipping professionals with world-class skills and certifications, solidifying its position as a driving force in the global cybersecurity landscape.