admin

Total Post: 5154

Respite For Nollywood and Content Distributors As DigiConverge Launches With Exclusive Content Distribution From VivaliveTV

Respite For Nollywood and Content Distributors As DigiConverge Launches With Exclusive Content Distribution From VivaliveTV

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.






KASHIFU ABDULLAHI: BUILDING DIGITAL CENTRES AND VIGOROUSLY CHANGING THE ICT NARRATIVE IN NIGERIA

KASHIFU ABDULLAHI: BUILDING DIGITAL CENTRES AND VIGOROUSLY CHANGING THE ICT NARRATIVE IN NIGERIA

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”

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Aura says the greatest crime fighting weapon in history is predictably

Aura says the greatest crime fighting weapon in history is predictably

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.

Reskilling: the new approach to global skills crisis

Reskilling: the new approach to global skills crisis

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.

Ends

LASG ISSUES MODALITIES FOR REOPENING HOSPITALITY, TOURISM ESTABLISHMENTS

LASG ISSUES MODALITIES FOR REOPENING HOSPITALITY, TOURISM ESTABLISHMENTS

… Says Violators Risk N1 Million Penalty Fee

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.

LASG

ForAGreaterLagos

WHY KASHIFU IS BUILDING OVER 80 DIGITAL CENTRES AND DEEPENING CAPACITY IN THE ICT ECOSYSTEM!

WHY KASHIFU IS BUILDING OVER 80 DIGITAL CENTRES AND DEEPENING CAPACITY IN THE ICT ECOSYSTEM!

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”

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

TELECOMS QoS: DANBATTA REASSURES CONSUMERS AS HE SPEAKS AT THE FIRST VIRTUAL EDITION OF THE TELECOMS CONSUMER PARLIAMENT (VTCP)

TELECOMS QoS: DANBATTA REASSURES CONSUMERS AS HE SPEAKS AT THE FIRST VIRTUAL EDITION OF THE TELECOMS CONSUMER PARLIAMENT (VTCP)

The Executive Vice Chairman of Nigerian Communication Commission the apex regulator of the telecommunication industry in the country recently engaged the telecoms stakeholders especially the consumers in the first virtual Consumers’ Parliament, the first ever. The EVC understanding of the importance of consumers in the industry and what it means to have them satisfied speaks volume of his administration thrust. The Telecom Consumer Parliament (TCP) provides high-level engagement and interactions with consumers and other stakeholders in the telecommunications industry
In his opening remark, he welcomed the stakeholders and key industry players to the first ever virtual edition. In his words the EVC said “It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this important occasion, being the first-ever virtual edition of the Telecom Consumer Parliament (TCP) organized by the Nigerian Communications Commission taking place here at the Commission’s Conference Room, Maitama, Abuja.”

“This event is organized, taking into consideration, the dynamics of the global pandemic and the directives from the Federal Government on social distancing and other measures thereof put in place to curb the spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic”, he added.

In line with the Covid 19 and Social Distancing directives, the EVC said that the virtual meeting is in place of the customary face-to-face engagement in previous Parliaments in the past, is a testament to rapid change to our lifestyle occasioned by the Covid-19 Pandemic. This is making telecommunications and indeed ICT the major driver of growth in every sector now.
He posited that “Ladies and gentlemen, the theme of today’s event: “Impact of Covid-19 on Telecoms Service Delivery” is timely and could not have come at a better time than now. The focus of this parliament also provides us with an opportunity as industry stakeholders, to have a quick look at how the pandemic is impacting our service delivery in the telecommunication industry, which currently provides the digital platform for the economy to remain afloat.”

Adding that “According to a report released by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) in May 2020, which examine the impact of the pandemic on the telecoms sector, “Covid-19 virus has presented a stress test for Governments worldwide with the Internet playing a crucial role in keeping critical infrastructure and resources connected and available.”

On the importance of internet, the EVC reiterated that internet and broadband is an enabler and will play a critical role in Covid Pandemic and Post Covid work environment. “Thigh-speed Internet is key to ensuring that hospitals and medical institutions have access to global information and resources necessary to fight the virus. Broadband connectivity is also absolutely crucial for educational institutions and businesses to continue to provide essential services. According to the report the unprecedented global health emergency is tasking mobile networks and digital platforms to the limit, with some telecom operators and platforms reporting demand spikes as high as 800% since the outbreak of the pandemic in their respective countries”, the EVC opined.

The EVC stated that the commission ensured that the quality of service never dwindled or reduced during or after the Covid lockdown. He reassured consumers that the commission is working hard with the industry stakeholders to ensure that QoS remains in line with global standards.

“As we all are aware, telecoms is highly capital intensive and as such, continuous network upgrade and expansion are very key to operators’ ability to deliver top-notch QoS to their consumers. For instance, if operators are not able to expand or they are incapacitated to expand and upgrade their network in the face of spike in traffic, as occasioned by the pandemic, it will definitely have potential grave impact on Quality of Service delivery” NCC Boss treasured.

He Added that “Despite the pandemic and the lockdown to contain the spread of Covid-19 virus, we on our part have also not relent to ensure that the quality of telecom services is sustained during and post Covid–19 period.”

Some of the critical steps taken by the Commission in conjunction with the supervising Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy towards mitigating the impact of Covid-19 pandemic on service delivery by the network operators are:

  1. The Commission have developed e-platforms where all licensing requests, consumer complaints and base transceiver station (BTS) investigation requests are channeled and also provided designated e-mail addresses to be used for such requests throughout the pandemic period.
  2. Similarly, the Commission approved and encouraged resource sharing among network operators. These shared resources include fibre optics cables and ancillary resources, the aim is to ensure that there is no destruction to service provision in the event of fibre cut and related incidence.
  3. The Commission also secured Right of Passage (RoP) for all telecommunications officials and staff for easy movement during the lockdown and movement restriction in order to be able to service their base stations and keep them active to provide services for telecom consumers who increasingly rely on their networks to work from home. In the same vein, the Commission also secured Right of Passage for suppliers that are involved in supplies of fuels, food and other essential services to telecom operators during total lockdown.
  4. With the intervention of the Hon. Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, state governors are now aligning their Right of Way charges to N145 as approved by the Federal Economic Council (FEC), reducing below N145 per linear of fibre laid by the operators in their states. Other state governors pegged their RoW charges below the N145 set by the FEC while some state governors have totally waived RoW charges in their states. All these are aimed at encouraging network operators to deploy telecoms/broadband infrastructure faster in their states with a view to deepening digital access. As Covid-19 evolves, a new world order where more activities are conducted online and robust broadband access is central is emerging. In effect, most of the state governors have appreciated the centrality of robust broadband infrastructure as work-from-home measures by government persists.
  5. The Commission is hopeful that with the reduction in RoW, which will automatically result in reduction in capital expenditure (CAPEX) by the network operators, telecom companies will sooner or later reciprocate the gesture by making their services in particular, data services more affordable to Nigerians.
  6. You would recall that one of the issues presented to the Honourable Minister when he assumed office is the need to strengthen telecom infrastructure protection. The Honourable Minister acted on this issue speedily by obtaining presidential approval directing Security Agencies to protect ICT and telecom facilities as critical national assets. It is pleasing that this action helped to safeguard telecom infrastructure for the greater role telecom has to play with the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic.

Umar Danbatta assured Nigerians that the commission is leaving no stone unturned towards ensuring that telecom service providers provide good quality service despite the covid-19 pandemic. He encouraged the Network operators on the importance of improved quality of services/experience for the consumers.

ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU

NORAK TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED BOOSTS PRODUCTIVITY WITH NORAKLE

NORAK TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED BOOSTS PRODUCTIVITY WITH NORAKLE


Businesses globally and Nigeria inclusive are geared to minimizing cost and maximizing profits leveraging on capacity and deployment of information technology(IT) tools such as software. Norak Technologies Limited, an indigenous digital transformation consultancy and software development company in Lagos has reiterated on the need for businesses to look inward when deploying business solutions. This remark was made after years of successful deployments of Norakle software, Enterprise resource planning (ERP) designed for higher productivity in various organisations with emphasis on retails and human resource outsourcing firms in the country.

Designed to make the everyday running of business easier and cost effective. The company has stated that the software is an online enabled application that is meant to ensure improved sales, improve productivity, and ensure maximum growth for businesses. Speaking to the media about Norakle software, Ifeanyi Iheanyichukwu, the Chief Technology Officer of Norak Technologies Limited said that , the software is designed to make businesses in Nigeria to be in tune with modern ways of running a business. He encouraged Nigerian businesses to buy indigenous software, he opined that Norakle is embedded with amazing features such as offline capability and cloud based integration for syncing.


Ifeanyi said, “You get over 50 tools, like CRM, Accounting System, Payroll Management, Project management to Task management, Human Resource time management, business process automation, invoicing, and much more. Norakle ERP is a cloud-based system with well integrated features that is easy to use, hence, limits headaches about data retrieval, disjointed systems or technicality in usage and can be installed on your own server so you can access at any time. Norakle ERP is a proven strategic tool for increasing sales, which in turn results in the growth of your business.”


“We built Norakle to take these challenges away from you, so you can focus on what you know or do best. We have incorporated many features such as Multi-Branch Management,Database Backup and QR Code /Barcode Scanner Integration. These features would help transform most organisations in the country and put them on the path of profitability”,he added.


With numerous benefits, the software having been designed in the country in line with the global best practice. The Norak Technologies informed the media that the software can be tweaked to meet various organisations’ businesses needs and model. Customer Relationship Management system, Marketing automation , Report and insights , Inventory Management Stock Location Management and Warehouse Management are few of the added features organisations enjoy. Taking after-sales serious, Norak Technologies included after Sales Service Management system in the software with underlying features such as Parts Management,Job Card/ Service Order Management,Quotes &Sales Invoice generation ,Customer Support System and many more.


Today, running companies in Nigeria is not a walk in a park. We constantly faced with administrative and organizational challenges, not to mention the complications of managing your sales and accounts. Too many businesses fail because these complications suck away at their time, leaving them with little time to grow their company. We developed Norakle to address these challenges that businesses face.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

NIGER STATE: NITDA TRAINS NIGERIANS ON SMARTPHONE REPAIRS

NIGER STATE: NITDA TRAINS NIGERIANS ON SMARTPHONE REPAIRS

The need to build capacity in an economy has been noticed to be the most important part in national building and economic emancipation not hope in natural resources. Nations today are tilting from dependancy on resource like crude oil, ore etc to knowledge ! Having noticed this,under able leadership of Kashifu ,the current Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The agency recently embarked on a grand scale capacity building in the area of mobile phone technology.

The ongoing training of Artisans (phone repairs) taking place at Suleja, Niger State, facilitated by National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s Digital Economy agenda and lifting 100m Nigerians out of poverty. It is strongly believed that the graduands would add value to the society with their skills.

Nigeria is a massive economy that is dependent on mobile telephony for broadband and internet connection and also for phone calls! Work over 130 million Nigerians connected to the world via mobile phones and smartphone useage about 70 million plus, NITDA has seen the gap and the market demand for qualified smartphone technicians especially in the Northern Nigeria where dearth of skills is alarmingly high.

Not only this, NITDA has been building capacity in virtually all the sphere of ICT from establishment of incubation centres and hub, deepening the appreciation of local software and apps to interventionist policies for the tech space.

National Information Technology Development Agency is a public service institution established by NITDA Act 2007 as the ICT policy implementing arm of the Federal Ministry of Communication of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

DigitalNigeria

Nigerian Driving Styles,are we rascally ?

Nigerian Driving Styles,are we rascally ?

Having driven in most countries of the world,I can state that driving in Nigeria , especially the city of Lagos can be described as nightmarish! It can make Schumacher the F1 driver petrified! I was driving down the road one evening. I came to an intersection. I saw this vehicle who also upon seeing me stopped too. They stopped because they were coming out from an avenue to enter the major road in which I was on.. I slowed down but continued believing they did the right thing by giving me right of way. Then out of nowhere this vehicle sauntered into my front. Note the word sauntered!

All effort to avoid hitting them was futile. I quickly brought my car to neutral and applied emergency breaks but still couldn’t avoid the accident. They managed to drive across to the other side of the road and parked with much difficulties. I pulled my vehicle off the road to the right side of the road I was in. This was a two-way road with two lanes on both sides. They were entering from my right side to cross over to the lane on the left.

I don’t want to even talk about the traffic rules and code in Nigeria and other countries and the discipline in obeying them. I have driven for the past 35 years and never had an accident. I have driven in Geneva, South Africa, Zimbabwe and New York, Malawi and Ghana and Dubai. Never have I had a traffic ticket let alone an accident. When I see the kinds of accidents people have in Abuja I wonder if it is madness.

I drove the cars of the organizations I worked for and never scratched the. GTZ, World Bnkand the UN etc. I those organizations you repay the amageyou do to their cars.

A yellow fever man stopped me one day in Abuja claiming that I ran a red light. I felt terribly offended because that is like telling me that I am nine months pregnant and forcing me to believe it. I know the risk of running a red light. That’s suicide. I don’t want to die or kill another person so why run a red light. I told him so.

Back to the point of this story. As I came down from my car I realised there were three occupants in the other car – two ladies and a gentleman with fashionable white beards. They just stood by their car while I walked up to them. I noticed from the body language of the ladies that they knew they were wrong. But the white beard short and petite guy was puffing his chest with hands akimbo. He was preparing for a fight – verbal or physical- I don’t know. When I see a white bearded guy, I assume brains, wisdom and panache. Patrick O. Okigbo III and Ademola H Adigun sold this impression to me. Unfortunately this guy had none. Not even decorum. Not even class.

Anyway I politely greeted them good evening to which the ladies responded. When I asked if anyone was hurt, I could see how the ladies were impressed!! They responded that nobody was hurt. If it was in my other world, I would have charmed those ladies. They felt impressed by my priority.

Since this guy never said a word, I calmly waived them bye bye and walked back to face my damaged car. I faked ease and joy. I also thanked Godthat it wasn’t deadly.

Honestly I find it absurd when I see people especially Nigerians get into terrible verbal exchanges over a vehicle accident that didn’t result in any injury to their persons. You will see them hold up entire traffic screaming over their scratched or damaged car. I can’t imagine my friends seeing me in that public altercation. It is simply a car!!

Many years ago when I got my first car, I drove it to the village to meet my grandmother. Her friends were rejoicing and I was also bragging about my car that I even forgot the lunch my grandmother prepared for me. When I came back having driven around with friends, she confronted me and said ” it is because of this pieces of aluminium pans on a rubber that you ignored my meal?”. My car described that way? It was the sharpest put down I got and deflation of ego. Since then I realised what a car is. My grandmother would always say ” forget the name of the car so long as it takes you from point-a to point-b”.

Now my observation regarding the accident was that this lady driving the jeep was learning. The other lady was at the back. The gentleman was sitting by the passenger’s seat. I made this observation as they alighted from their jeep.

It became clear to me from the way the vehicle sauntered into my path, the lady was learning and the guy was teaching her. They clearly decided to use the opportunity of light traffic at night to learn to drive. I overheard the lady state that she didn’t know how the jeep moved onto the road. Anyone who has tried teaching people how to drive can understand the predicament of this lady.

Apart from this observation I think it is wrong and unwise to teach a wife or girlfriend or anyone how to drive. I refused teaching my girlfriend or wife howto drive. Never. I rather pay you go learn from the driving school. Love and teaching don’t go well. Send her to a driving school to learn. Secondly it is also unlawful to put anyone behind the wheels who has no driver’s license learners permit with a red ” L” signage indicating that the person is learning.

Thirdly there are basic rules or traffic codes. In some countries they drive on the right side with the steering wheel on the left. While in some others they keep to the left side with the steering on the right side.

There are reasons. In Zimbabwe or South Africa where they keep to the left with steering on the right, you give way to any traffic coming from your right. It is so because from your sitting position you can see oncoming vehicle with much easy. Even as you approach a roundabout you give way to traffic coming from your right. There is what is known as a blind spot in your car. Hence in different jurisdiction you overtake from the right or left based on their rules but it must be from the side the other drive can easily see you.

In Nigeria people overtake from every side. They don’t give right of way to anybody. Approaching a roundabout you give way to the traffic coming from your left and the same when you approach an intersection.

In Pretoria and Harare they have traffic lights on all major roads. However there are also other roads or avenues they don’t put traffic light. In those roads you see ” Stop Signs” on the post and boldly inscribed on the tarmac at those intersections. We have these in Abuja but mos motorist see it as decorations.

When vehicles arrive on a four road intersection. Each stops. The one from the left goes followed by another from the other side and turn by turn and on a rotational basis each car crosses over from each side. The vehicles arriving later queue behind and follow accordingly when it is their turn. They don’t need a traffic police or yellow fever to do this. In Nigeriawe all put our heads together like hundred rams in a lock horn fight.

It is simply acquired learning and applied discipline.

Sadly Nigerians don’t have these!! Let anyone challenge me on this.

Meanwhile let me go repair my car. Thinking of the budget while taking my morning green tea. Life is better than a ” pieces of pan on a rubber”

Charles C Achodo