Anambra State government has suspended the Igweship certificates of twelve traditional rulers for a period of one year.
A circular from Mr Greg Obi, Commissioner for Local Government Chieftaincy matters said the twelve traditional rulers traveled outside the state without consultation or authorization from the state government.
The circular titled “Suspension of Twelve (12) Traditional Rulers in Anambra State,” and dated Tuesday August 11, 2020, listed the affected traditional rulers as follows –
Igwe Alex Edozieuno of Mkpunando
Igwe Mark Anthony Okonkwo of Alor
Igwe Chukuwma Bob Vincent Orji of Ezinifite
Igwe Engr G.B.C Mbakwe of Abacha
Igwe Chijioke Nwankwo of Nawfia
Igwe Nkeli Nelly of Igbariam
Igwe Anthony Onyekwere of Owelle
Igwe A. N Onwuneme of Ikenga
Igwe Simon Ikechukwu Chidubem of Umumbo
Igwe S. O Uche of Ezira
Igwe Dr Emeka Ilouno of Ifitedunu
Igwe Peter Ikegbunem Udoji of Eziagulu Otu.
The suspension took effect from Tuesday, August 11, 2020.
The circular warned the suspended traditional rulers not to parade themselves as traditional rulers and to desist from discharging functions as traditional rulers in their communities or anywhere within the state and beyond with immediate effect.
The circular also revoked their membership of Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council and cancelled any appointment they may be holding in government committees until the suspension is lifted.
The suspension may be lifted at the end of one year, renewed or upgraded in the intervening period depending on government’s review of their conduct.
The suspension is on the recommendation of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, following their meeting at the Professor Dora Akunyili Women Development Center, Awka on Tuesday, August 11th, 2020.
The Chairman of Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe had in a news interview condemned the actions of the suspended traditional rulers who had traveled to Abuja in cohort with an Anambra businessman in an attempt to have audience with President Muhammadu Buhari.
The manner the trip was arranged, the embarrassment of being turned back at Aso Rock Villa, and viral videos showing the suspended traditional rulers being induced with monetary gifts by representatives of the businessman to facilitate their trip to Abuja had raised a lot of dust with many blaming the traditional rulers for ridiculing revered Anambra traditional institutions.
In another video, the businessman was seen promising the traditional rulers the sum of sixteen million naira for their cooperation.
It would be recalled that the Traditional Ruler of Ukwulu, Igwe Peter Uyanwa is currently serving a one year suspension for misconduct.
Gov. Uzodimma receives Former Commissioners and Appointees of Imo State during Senator Rochas Okorocha’s Administration.
The visiting delegates were ably led by Rt. Hon. Chief Dr. Jones Uzoka, former commissioner for the ministry of Niger Delta and 2-time ISOPADEC Chairman.
The Chairman of Imo APC, Chief Nlemigbo recieving the returnees from the Rescue Mission Government of Senator Rochas Okorocha, stated that they are one and serving the same purpose which is the Good of Imo people.
The former Deputy Governor, Eze Madumere Stated that there are many others in support of the Shared Prosperity Government of Governor Hope Uzodimma, “as Imo State belongs to All of us” Prince Madumere stated.
Prince Madumere further encouraged the former appointees from Rochas Okorocha former cabinet to go out and defend the Shared Prosperity Government, bringing the party to one body for the Good and interest of Imo people.
Governor Hope Uzodimma welcomed all the returnees from the camp of Rochas Okorocha as party politics is about human beings.
Governor Hope Uzodimma further stressed that his aim is to build a strong party for the benefit of our people, taking care of every interest, standformidable and serve the people of NDI-IMO.
“We are still one party, we are here to serve Imo people and we can’t achieve it by factionalism” Governor Uzodimma stated.
The Enugu State Government has expressed dismay over what it described as “unfortunate, deliberate and malicious falsehood” against it and its development control agency, the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), by the Enugu zone of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC).
A statement by the State Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, said the “calculated attempt to bring the state to disrepute is as a result of the state government’s determination to fully implement the request of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the resolution of the South East Governors’ Forum (SEGF) by removing all obstructions to the reconstruction and critical infrastructure works at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, aimed at improving the safety standards of the airport”.
Aroh reaffirmed the state government’s commitment, as the host state, to implement to the letter, the decision of the South East Governors’ Forum, and ensure speedy completion of the ongoing rehabilitation and construction works at the airport.
Presenting a detailed narrative of what transpired, the information commissioner, who stressed the need to put the records straight, said, “Pursuant to the resolution of the South East Governors’ Forum referred to above, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) requested for the removal of obstruction at the airport construction site along Ukwu Orji area by the rail tracks as contained in the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria letter to the Governor reference no. FAAN/ENU/AM/22/VOL.V32 of 11th May, 2020.
“The state government then directed the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) to issue appropriate notices to all owners and occupants of illegal shanties and structures obstructing the construction of critical infrastructure at the airport.
“On June 29, 2020, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) issued a public notice advising all owners of illegal shanties and structures obstructing the construction of critical infrastructure at the airport to remove same within two weeks.
“On July 10, 2020, the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), in line with the Federal Government’s directive on the upgrade of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu and pursuant to the request of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), published a public notice on page 28 of Vanguard Newspaper, giving notice of demolition to all occupants/owners of illegal structures and shanties, obstructing the construction of critical infrastructure at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. The agency gave a further 3-week notice that demolition will commence from July 31, 2020.
“The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) by another letter reference no. FAAN/ENU/AM/15/VOL.6, dated July 21, 2020, forwarded to the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) a comprehensive map detailing the areas and structures obstructing the construction of critical infrastructure at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport Enugu that have been marked for removal.
“In line with the above and in consultation with all relevant stakeholders and community leaders in the affected areas, the Enugu State Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) commenced demolition and removal of shanties and illegal structures within the affected areas to ensure speedy completion, upgrade of critical infrastructure and eventual reopening of the all important Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
“It is on record that in its commitment to ensure the speedy completion, upgrade of critical infrastructure and safe operation of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport Enugu, the Enugu State Government has taken the following additional steps:
“i. Relocation of the 120 meters Enugu State Broadcasting Services mast
ii. Construction of 1.3 km asphalt road to the airport navigational facility.
iii. Provision of finance for upgrade and refurbishment of existing toilet facilities in the terminal building. This includes the installation of sensor sanitary sittings such as contactless automatic taps and flush systems, baby changing facilities, handicapped toilets, air conditioning and ventilation system.
“The state government has no intention whatsoever to acquire any piece of land belonging to the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), rather the government is determined to provide all needed support to the Nigeria Railway Corporation and any other Federal Government agency operating within the state to ensure their full operation and functionality.
“Finally, no amount of blackmail, falsehood or malicious propaganda will deter the state government, as the government is irrevocably committed to the upgrade, speedy completion of the critical infrastructure work and safe re-opening of this very important National Security Asset located in Enugu State.”
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Oyo State Police Command, have re-arrested the notorious murder suspect, Sunday Shodipe who escaped from lawful custody on 11th August, 2020. He was re-arrested today, Sunday, 23rd August, 2020 by Police operatives at the Bodija area of Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital.
It would be recalled that the erstwhile fugitive is a prime suspect in multiple murder of innocent citizens at Akinyele Local Government Area, Moniya, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The Inspector General of Police, IGP M.A Adamu, NPM,mni while commending the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Joe Nwachukwu Enwonwu and his Team for a job well done, equally expressed his sincere appreciation to the citizens for their support and understanding while the manhunt for the rearrested Shodipe lasted.
Meanwhile, the IGP has warned against any form of complacency on the part of the operatives of the Oyo State Police Command, stressing that all hands must be on deck to bring the case to a positive and successful closure.
As the world is tilting towards IoT and digitized ecosystem. Nigeria isn’t left out, especially in the area of content distribution and syndication,it has been noted that there are a lot of hiccups and challanges in analogue broadcasting. Bridging this gap and filling this vacum, the emergence of Digiconverge in the country’s digital space has been lauded as a welcomed development by stakeholders and industry watchers.
Digiconverge in a nutshell is a one-stop digital convergence platform that provides fit-for-purpose services in e-broadcasting and global content syndication has launched operations in Africa, starting with Nigeria.
The platform which already enjoys the blessings, approval and support from the Federal Government of Nigeria, has signed an exclusive content distribution partnership for Africa with the Viva Entertainment Group Inc. US to bridge the gap between Hollywood and Nollywood through effective collaborations and broadcast of original and exclusive African movies on the Flikontv Channel.
The Vice President of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, has described the newly launched Digiconverge as an example of Africa being a producer and not just a consumer of technology products.
Prof. Osinbajo who gave a keynote address during the virtual launch of Digiconverge on Tuesday, August 18, 2020 through the Special Assistant on Innovation, Office of the President, Mr.Ife Adebayo, spoke on the theme: “Unlocking the benefits of the 4th Industrial revolution”.
Adebayo expressed confidence that Nigeria, and by extension Africa, can be put on the right path to harnessing the opportunities the fourth (4th) Industrial Revolution presents. “We need to ensure that as Government we support initiatives like DigiConverge, and create opportunities, develop policies to protect intellectual property, and ensure adequate funding sources for research and innovation for continuous product improvement”.
“The dedication of groups like the team at Digiconverge reinforces my belief. I implore us all, Government, Private Sector, and Academia, to work together to maximize these opportunities”, he said.
Speaking at the launch, founder and CEO of DigiConverge, Mr. Celestine Achi said DigiConverge is an indigenous all-in-one digital convergence platform that provides fit-for-all purpose services in e-broadcasting, global content syndication, media intelligence and virtual business support. According to Achi, DigiConverge offers a wide range of services that ensures business sustainability through cutting edge technology.
He listed other solutions under DigiConverge as DigiBlastream (virtualstudio.digiconverge.net) – best for virtual studio, virtual meeting, virtual learning and live streaming; “DigiGbedu- a music streaming platform on over 200 global platforms including amazon, Spotify, deezer and more. It ensures owners of creative work earn 100% of their royalties.
According to Achi, DigiGbedu (https://distribution.digigbedu.com/) enables owners of creative work to earn 100% of their royalties as they have unfettered access to the backend of the portal which enables them monitor all transactions real time.
“Top on the pack of the product is FlikonTV, an e-broadcast platform designed to enable subscribers launch their own TV channel, talk show, video news on international platforms such as AppleTV, RokuTV, AmazonTV, VivaLiveTV among other channels”, Co-Founder/ED Partnerships of DigiCoverge, Nkechi Ali-Balogun, added.
She further listed some of the premium products of DigiConverge to include Flikon TV, an e-broadcast platform designed to enable subscribers launch their own Tv channel, talk show, video news on international platforms such Apple TV, RokuTV , Amazon TV, VivaLive TV , among other channels.
President/CEO of the Viva Entertainment Group Inc (US) a global entertainment and Technology Company publicly trading under the US Stock symbol OTTV, Johnny Falcones, speaking on the exclusive partnership with DigiConverge on their FlikonTV Platform, said that Africa is going to be one of the leading markets in technology as it keeps innovating and pushing forward. He also said the partnership with DigiConverge will bring great innovations, collaborations and ensure for a quality content and monetization process.
In his contributions, a consummate public relations practitioner, Development Administrator, Member Governing Board and Executive Secretary Nigerian Prize for Leadership, Dr. Ike Nelaku said that every revolution that has taken place impacted the economy at many levels, economy of the people, the society, the community and the states. He called on the government to create the enabling environment in terms of policy and leadership for the people to unleash their creative energy and “put Nigeria firmly on the global digital map adding that some people are already talking about the 5th industrial revolution which is a convergence of man and machine”, he said referring to the DigiConverge as a solution that will impact the Africa content delivery space in diverse ways.
In his submission, Prof Ndemo Bitange said Africa must begin to understand big data and make informed analyses to make it easier for governments to make good policies that will create jobs for the youth population and enhance development.
The appointment of Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the energic young man to pilot the affairs the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) one year ago has seen the agency making tremendous strides through intervention, implementation, regulation and execution of IT policies to the amazement of Nigerians! He didn’t come “tasting the waters” as it is the normal thing in most government establishments, he did hit the “ground running” with the zeal of a spartan. The Director General has piloted the affairs of NITDA to a level that admirers and those who opposed him has come to give him kudos, like a Northern star, his strides have remained constant.
Nations all over the world are preparing and making concerted efforts for Revolution 4.0, known in some other places as 4th Industrial Revolution. A period that global economy would be powered by information technology (IT) tools such as automation, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing and Internet of Things (IoT). NITDA, as an agency is primed and positioned to spearhead Nigeria’s migration to this 4.0. Kashifu has demonstrated the will to lead this strenuous migration, but doing so with tact and ease.
He has shown that he is adept and experienced in the IT ecosystem. In his words, “I am at home being at the helm of affairs in NITDA. As a person that is open to new approaches and strategies, with the experiences I have gained for the last 15 years in the IT sector spanning between the private and the public sector and through unceasing study, my team and I have worked diligently to ensure the continuous development of the IT sector in Nigeria over the past 10 months. Remember, I picked it up from a good place to consolidate upon, considering the foundation laid by my boss and mentor, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami).”
With robust roadmap to work with, this past one year has shown Kashifu working in tandem with the existing roadmap especially on the area of capacity building. NITDA is implementing a strategic roadmap for the development of Nigeria’s IT sector. It consists of 7 pillars that are in alignment with the 8 pillars of the National Digital Economy Policy & Strategy. The 7 key pillars of our Roadmap are IT Regulation, Capacity Building, Digital Inclusion, Digital Job Creation, Government Digital Service Promotion, Local Content Development, and Cybersecurity.
“We have rolled out several policies, regulations, and programs, focusing on those areas. However, as the roadmap is set to expire this year as is the Nigeria Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) which it draws from. NITDA has already commenced reviewing it as well as developing the next plan, which will soon be launched”, Kashifu said on programs and implementation.
“…with my boss and mentor, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami) as the Honorable Minister, the efforts have resulted the development of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), unveiled by President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, during the 2019 e-Nigeria International Conference, Exhibition and Awards, held on the November 28th, 2019. The NDEPS effectively replaces the National IT Policy”
In Africa today, Nigeria is a critical market, leading the pack as an investment destination and as a beautiful bride to the venture capitalists (VC),the country occupied the first position with a total investment of US $747 Million, followed by Kenya with a total investment of US $564 Million and Egypt that attracted a total investment of US $211 Million. The DG understands this and have demonstrated readiness for this by bringing up schemes and policies that will leapfrog the sector. The NITDA Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Support Scheme is one of these scheme targeting startups hub owners and youth with talent and building their skills in high-demand skills. Policies such as Tax Incentives for startups, incentives for investors and access to market for innovation adoption. Establishment of Innovation and Research Fund to further catalyze the growth of startups and there are rigorous plans to ensure we retain about 100,000 ICT Jobs and create an additional 30,000 in the Post COVID-19 Era.
On the area of support of indigenous OEMs, Software development and scalability of IT firms in the country. NITDA under Kashifu is desirous to see that Nigerian IT firms survive and are also protected in a “dog eat dog” world of IT where big corporations give no room for competition. This one year of Kashifu’s handling of affairs of NITDA has shown that the indigenous OEMs enjoyed a three times patronage compared to the other times. The agency as of recent spearheaded an increment in indigenous IT firms participation in the ecosystem. Kashifu ensured that local IT firms are given preference in the scheme of things there by making them profitable, scalable and sustainable.
In line with this mandate kashifu said “It is a fact that the purchase of local devices by MDAs is unprecedented within these years compared to previous years before 2018. For instance, in 2015-2016 less than 250,000 devices were sold by indigenous OEMs. However, due to the intervention of NITDA, records show that in 2018/2019 alone OEMs sold three times the numbers sold prior to 2017 with about 778,886 of locally assembled devices sold in 2018 and 2019.”
He added “NITDA is implementing the Executive Order and Guidelines vigorously through active surveillance and IT Projects assessment and clearance process of the Agency. Nevertheless, procurement law requires OEMs to either bid directly or work with other contractors to bid to ensure transparency and value for money. If MDAs violate the process NITDA can then be notified for action.”
Not only giving preference to local brand, NTDA ensured that the local OEM adhere to the global best practices. Kashifu said that there is also a challenge with the quality of product of some of the indigenous brands. NITDA is making strenuous effort to address this challenge, in 2018, the agency mandated these OEMs to go through a rigorous certification process requiring them to have ISO 9001:2015 for quality management systems. This is believed that it will spur these OEMs to provide products that meet quality and regulatory requirements always as it done in the Western World. Presently, only 3 out of 10 previously registered OEMs have been fully certified.
The agency is working with the Federal Government on the area of IT policy making, implementation and intervention in line with thrusting the nation into a digital economy. NITDA from August 2019 to date has launched and is implementing the following regulatory instruments: Nigeria e-Government Interoperability Framework (Ne-GIF) Nigeria Cloud Computing Policy (NCCP)Nigeria ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship Vision (NIIEV), Framework and Guidelines for ICT adoption in Tertiary Institutions, Guidelines for Nigeria Content Development ICT as amended; and Data Protection Implementation Framework.
In the last 1 year that Kashifu has been in the office, NITDA has established 80 Digital Capacity Training Centers (DCTCs) with E-Learning facilities, 6 IT Hubs, 6 IT Community Centers, 4 IT Innovation & Incubation Parks, and 3 IT Capacity Training Centers – all with the aim of bridging the digital divide and providing access to the unserved and underserved population. Not yet done, though with an eye on the futuristic 4th industrial revolution, the DG understands the current realities of Corona Virus, its impact and how to emerge in a Post Covid 19 stronger. Having this in mind, Kashifu spearheaded the establishment of Tech4COVID19 Initiative – This initiative is set to measure the impact of COVID-19 on the tech ecosystem and proffer solutions especially for startups. Also, the establishment of Virtual Startup Clinic where Startups and mostly young people to meet with mentors, successful entrepreneurs, investors, industry specialists, business consultants and hub operators with the goal of solving problems and challenges they were facing. And finally, the Nigeria COVID-19 Innovation Challenge. This is online innovation challenge where youths proffer solutions on the challenges the society is facing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 5 startups with highly innovative ideas were selected for the final challenge and 3 of them were selected for further incubation. A support of ₦1 000,000 ₦750,000 and ₦500,000 were won by the 1st, 2nd and 3rd winners respectively. This past one year has seen a turn around in NITDA’s activities, with constant pushing of narratives and adopting to the current realities under Kashifu Abdullahi, he has within a short period of time shown that it is what it is, which is proving that a young man can change an agency within a short time under the mentorship of his predecessor.
As a team player, Kashifu is working with the Minister of Digital Economy, Isa Pantami on the best ways to position the country so as to reap the immense benefits in ICT sector and also drive the country’s diversification from oil and gas to IT, making Nigeria an IT destination. “…with my boss and mentor, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami) as the Honorable Minister, the efforts have resulted the development of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), unveiled by President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, during the 2019 e-Nigeria International Conference, Exhibition and Awards, held on the November 28th, 2019. The NDEPS effectively replaces the National IT Policy”, he concluded at a recent chat.
“NITDA has established 80 Digital Capacity Training Centers (DCTCs) with E-Learning facilities, 6 IT Hubs, 6 IT Community Centers, 4 IT Innovation & Incubation Parks, and 3 IT Capacity Training Centers”
Predicting crime will reduce levels thanks to AI and big data
Predictability fuelled by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and big data has the ability to reduce violent crimes by 25% by 2023 according to Aura, a local B2B technology platform. Aura CEO and co-founder, Warren Myers, says that technology has a vital role to play in establishing a predictability, data-driven approach to improving security measures and curbing crime.
South Africa’s crime statistics continue to rise, and Myers says that it is becoming increasingly critical to find an effective solution to counter this spiked increase. As a locally developed technology platform, Aura has the answer. It enables registered users to access the closest vetted security response vehicle to their location, anywhere, anytime using a connected device.
“South Africa’s crime rate is well documented, and it seems set to continue to spiral out of control in the current economic climate. Hyper scale technology tools like AI, machine learning, blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) are creating a playing field where we can begin dreaming of fixing the biggest problems like crime, not only in South Africa, but across the planet,” says Myers.
He says that Aura was launched to create a data on-demand service, using statistical data to guide decision-making and assist private security companies to become more accessible and effective: “Our technology has the potential to save over 10 lives and more than 50 sexual assaults per day. We also boast an average of 5 minutes response times nationally,” says Myers.
There are 7000 private response vehicles across the country, which only service 2% of the population. In addition, these vehicles are only in service 5% of the time, leaving a significant 95% idle: “The demand-supply theory is clearly not in play as there are tens of millions of South Africans who desperately want affordable and accessible private security services,” says Myers.
The answer, according to the ecosystem created by Aura, is to utilise consolidated big data and AI. Myers says that in reality security reaction vehicles are not enough to prevent crime, evidenced by the large percentage of which are idle and the continued increase in crime: “By using technology, we can create the greatest crime fighting weapon in history: predictably. This will take us beyond mere reactionary armed response, giving us a fighting chance against crime.”
Predictability, according to Myers, is what helps Facebook suggest the perfect getaway or how Uber ensures the wait is never too long: “It is about being a step ahead all the time. The system is versatile, adaptive and will grow and evolve just as criminals do. Pivoting is what helps most remain elusive to security forces. As methods are identified, criminals adjust and create new or varying tactics to successful carry out their crimes. By being a step ahead, pivoting will become much harder to achieve.”
Aura gathers and centralises national data from more than 200 private security companies, before applying AI. The company also includes mass threat detection devices such as open access CCTV: “The public should have access to a centralised panic system, either via an app or wearable technology, which will enable everyone to immediately report crimes. We also work closely with private security to ensure we have fast effective armed reaction to effect arrests,” says Myers.
He says that in five years it will be extremely difficult to be a criminal thanks to AI and big data and, most importantly, predictability.
“Aura believes that being safe is a basic human need and our vision is to create a world where everyone is safe. Our message is one of hope because we have the power through these technology tools to beat crime, and much like super heroes that overcome all, we want this platform to be the winner for the people,” says Myers.
If the World Economic Forum (WEF) is to be believed, then business across the globe could be facing a reskilling emergency. According to them by 2022, 42% of core skills required to perform existing jobs are going to change. Technology skills, for example, will be in high demand, making it one of the driving forces behind job transformation.
Ntombi Mphokane, e4’s HR and Transformation Executive, says that while business is under pressure to evolve, the people need to be nurtured, developed and grown accordingly: “It is clear that all workforces are under pressure as almost everything is changing. We are squarely in what the United Nations calls the “decade of delivery”, and while it is forcing a focus on sustainable and responsible growth, it is also placing significant pressure on all sectors to transform and deliver. We need to be cognisant of what this means to the people of the business, if success is going to be achieved.”
A new report, by the WEF, states that technology, and people and culture are two of seven fastest-growing professions, which Mphokane states is an astute finding: “It would be logical to think that highly developed technological skills would be most critical, however what the WEF’s findings prove is that the ability to know how to interact with each other is just as important. Growing people remains critical, looking at areas such as creativity, collaboration and specialised skills such as sales, HR, education and care.”
To support the business, you need to better-support the people and Mphokane says that this is where the reskilling becomes important: “It’s important to reskill considering both the individual and the company, it is important to know what both require to effect a positive change. Only then will an evolution be successful.”
It is possible, that while the fast-growing jobs have a skills shortage, other jobs could become redundant. This is the challenge for all businesses, to simultaneously address both the requirements of the current and the future workforce, all with the same goal, to build stronger businesses.
This conundrum cannot be ignored, if it is not addressed, the skills shortage will only grow and negatively impact businesses and economies worldwide: “Sometimes sustainability is not about product as much as it is about your people,” says Mphokane.
The Lagos State Government has listed some modalities, set of protocols and guidelines that must now be put in place and implemented by hospitality and tourism establishments for re-opening of business activities in the State.
In a statement issued by the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf over the weekend, the protocols and guidelines are meant to ensure the health and safety of all guests and staff in all the facilities involved.
According to her, “The new rules affect all Accommodation Establishments such as Hotels, Motels, Apartments, Suites, Inns, Guest Houses etc; Tourism Enterprises like Event Centres/Entertainment Places, and Food Establishments, like Restaurants, Eateries, Fast Food, Lounge and Bars, and Cinemas”.
The Commissioner explained that the Ministry arrived at the set of protocols for the practitioners after due consultations with relevant stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism sector and in recognition of the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on the industry.
While noting that, apart from the general safety protocols which include the compulsory use of face masks, regular hand washing, use of sanitisers, maintenance of social distancing, temperature check, encouragement of cashless transactions, disinfection of premises and buildings among others, Akinbile-Yussuf stated that owners of hospitality establishments are now required to offer 50% of their space capacity to guests for now in order to maintain physical distancing, in addition to the separation of dining tables.
She said, “For now, there will be no buffet serving arrangement. All guests (over 18 years old) must be made to sign a COVID-19 form at the reception that has the name, address and phone number of guests for easy contact tracing purpose”.
For owners of Food Establishments such as Restaurants, Eateries, Fast Food, Lounge and bar among others, she said Restaurants and Eateries are mandated to indicate two metres spacing on the floor to guide their customers in physical distancing, adding that Fast Food outlets and Eateries are also to maintain take-away services for now.
On the modalities for tourism enterprises such as Event Centres/Entertainment Places, the Commissioner directed that they must hold a valid licence from Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture prior to holding an event, in addition to an Event Safety Clearance from the Lagos State Safety Commission before such event is held.
“Occupancy at any event, for now, must not exceed 50% maximum capacity of the hall with a maximum duration of three hours for all social events. Event Centres sitting arrangement must also comply with the two metres physical spacing. All tables must be set at least five meters apart in order to maintain a safe distance and free movements”, Akinbile-Yusuf stated.
She warned against violation of the stated conditions by event centre owners and party planners, stressing that the penalty for the infraction will attract a sum of One Million Naira.
While maintaining that owners of cinemas are to follow all guidelines stipulated for the hospitality sector and event centres as it relates to 50 percent capacity, two metres spacing and the signing of COVID-19 forms by customers above 18 years, the Commissioner stressed that the operation of all cinemas within the State must not exceed the hours stipulated by the government to ensure compliance with the 10 p.m to 4 a.m curfew directive.
The appointment of Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the energic young man to pilot the affairs the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) one year ago has seen the agency making tremendous strides through intervention, implementation, regulation and execution of IT policies to the amazement of Nigerians! He didn’t come “tasting the waters” as it is the normal thing in most government establishments, he did hit the “ground running” with the zeal of a spartan. The Director General has piloted the affairs of NITDA to a level that admirers and those who opposed him has come to give him kudos, like a Northern star, his strides have remained constant.
Nations all over the world are preparing and making concerted efforts for Revolution 4.0, known in some other places as 4th Industrial Revolution. A period that global economy would be powered by information technology (IT) tools such as automation, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing and Internet of Things (IoT). NITDA, as an agency is primed and positioned to spearhead Nigeria’s migration to this 4.0. Kashifu has demonstrated the will to lead this strenuous migration, but doing so with tact and ease.
He has shown that he is adept and experienced in the IT ecosystem. In his words, “I am at home being at the helm of affairs in NITDA. As a person that is open to new approaches and strategies, with the experiences I have gained for the last 15 years in the IT sector spanning between the private and the public sector and through unceasing study, my team and I have worked diligently to ensure the continuous development of the IT sector in Nigeria over the past 10 months. Remember, I picked it up from a good place to consolidate upon, considering the foundation laid by my boss and mentor, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami).”
With robust roadmap to work with, this past one year has shown Kashifu working in tandem with the existing roadmap especially on the area of capacity building. NITDA is implementing a strategic roadmap for the development of Nigeria’s IT sector. It consists of 7 pillars that are in alignment with the 8 pillars of the National Digital Economy Policy & Strategy. The 7 key pillars of our Roadmap are IT Regulation, Capacity Building, Digital Inclusion, Digital Job Creation, Government Digital Service Promotion, Local Content Development, and Cybersecurity.
“We have rolled out several policies, regulations, and programs, focusing on those areas. However, as the roadmap is set to expire this year as is the Nigeria Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) which it draws from. NITDA has already commenced reviewing it as well as developing the next plan, which will soon be launched”, Kashifu said on programs and implementation.
“…with my boss and mentor, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami) as the Honorable Minister, the efforts have resulted the development of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), unveiled by President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, during the 2019 e-Nigeria International Conference, Exhibition and Awards, held on the November 28th, 2019. The NDEPS effectively replaces the National IT Policy”
In Africa today, Nigeria is a critical market, leading the pack as an investment destination and as a beautiful bride to the venture capitalists (VC),the country occupied the first position with a total investment of US $747 Million, followed by Kenya with a total investment of US $564 Million and Egypt that attracted a total investment of US $211 Million. The DG understands this and have demonstrated readiness for this by bringing up schemes and policies that will leapfrog the sector. The NITDA Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Support Scheme is one of these scheme targeting startups hub owners and youth with talent and building their skills in high-demand skills. Policies such as Tax Incentives for startups, incentives for investors and access to market for innovation adoption. Establishment of Innovation and Research Fund to further catalyze the growth of startups and there are rigorous plans to ensure we retain about 100,000 ICT Jobs and create an additional 30,000 in the Post COVID-19 Era.
On the area of support of indigenous OEMs, Software development and scalability of IT firms in the country. NITDA under Kashifu is desirous to see that Nigerian IT firms survive and are also protected in a “dog eat dog” world of IT where big corporations give no room for competition. This one year of Kashifu’s handling of affairs of NITDA has shown that the indigenous OEMs enjoyed a three times patronage compared to the other times. The agency as of recent spearheaded an increment in indigenous IT firms participation in the ecosystem. Kashifu ensured that local IT firms are given preference in the scheme of things there by making them profitable, scalable and sustainable.
In line with this mandate kashifu said “It is a fact that the purchase of local devices by MDAs is unprecedented within these years compared to previous years before 2018. For instance, in 2015-2016 less than 250,000 devices were sold by indigenous OEMs. However, due to the intervention of NITDA, records show that in 2018/2019 alone OEMs sold three times the numbers sold prior to 2017 with about 778,886 of locally assembled devices sold in 2018 and 2019.”
He added “NITDA is implementing the Executive Order and Guidelines vigorously through active surveillance and IT Projects assessment and clearance process of the Agency. Nevertheless, procurement law requires OEMs to either bid directly or work with other contractors to bid to ensure transparency and value for money. If MDAs violate the process NITDA can then be notified for action.”
Not only giving preference to local brand, NTDA ensured that the local OEM adhere to the global best practices. Kashifu said that there is also a challenge with the quality of product of some of the indigenous brands. NITDA is making strenuous effort to address this challenge, in 2018, the agency mandated these OEMs to go through a rigorous certification process requiring them to have ISO 9001:2015 for quality management systems. This is believed that it will spur these OEMs to provide products that meet quality and regulatory requirements always as it done in the Western World. Presently, only 3 out of 10 previously registered OEMs have been fully certified.
The agency is working with the Federal Government on the area of IT policy making, implementation and intervention in line with thrusting the nation into a digital economy. NITDA from August 2019 to date has launched and is implementing the following regulatory instruments: Nigeria e-Government Interoperability Framework (Ne-GIF) Nigeria Cloud Computing Policy (NCCP)Nigeria ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship Vision (NIIEV), Framework and Guidelines for ICT adoption in Tertiary Institutions, Guidelines for Nigeria Content Development ICT as amended; and Data Protection Implementation Framework.
In the last 1 year that Kashifu has been in the office, NITDA has established 80 Digital Capacity Training Centers (DCTCs) with E-Learning facilities, 6 IT Hubs, 6 IT Community Centers, 4 IT Innovation & Incubation Parks, and 3 IT Capacity Training Centers – all with the aim of bridging the digital divide and providing access to the unserved and underserved population. Not yet done, though with an eye on the futuristic 4th industrial revolution, the DG understands the current realities of Corona Virus, its impact and how to emerge in a Post Covid 19 stronger. Having this in mind, Kashifu spearheaded the establishment of Tech4COVID19 Initiative – This initiative is set to measure the impact of COVID-19 on the tech ecosystem and proffer solutions especially for startups. Also, the establishment of Virtual Startup Clinic where Startups and mostly young people to meet with mentors, successful entrepreneurs, investors, industry specialists, business consultants and hub operators with the goal of solving problems and challenges they were facing. And finally, the Nigeria COVID-19 Innovation Challenge. This is online innovation challenge where youths proffer solutions on the challenges the society is facing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 5 startups with highly innovative ideas were selected for the final challenge and 3 of them were selected for further incubation. A support of ₦1 000,000 ₦750,000 and ₦500,000 were won by the 1st, 2nd and 3rd winners respectively. This past one year has seen a turn around in NITDA’s activities, with constant pushing of narratives and adopting to the current realities under Kashifu Abdullahi, he has within a short period of time shown that it is what it is, which is proving that a young man can change an agency within a short time under the mentorship of his predecessor.
As a team player, Kashifu is working with the Minister of Digital Economy, Isa Pantami on the best ways to position the country so as to reap the immense benefits in ICT sector and also drive the country’s diversification from oil and gas to IT, making Nigeria an IT destination. “…with my boss and mentor, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami) as the Honorable Minister, the efforts have resulted the development of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), unveiled by President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, during the 2019 e-Nigeria International Conference, Exhibition and Awards, held on the November 28th, 2019. The NDEPS effectively replaces the National IT Policy”, he concluded at a recent chat.
“NITDA has established 80 Digital Capacity Training Centers (DCTCs) with E-Learning facilities, 6 IT Hubs, 6 IT Community Centers, 4 IT Innovation & Incubation Parks, and 3 IT Capacity Training Centers”
