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NDPC Partners with Microsoft and DSN on AI and Data Protection Capacity Building

NDPC Partners with Microsoft and DSN on AI and Data Protection Capacity Building

 

In a significant move to enhance data protection and privacy in Nigeria, the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr. Vincent Olatunji, recently held a virtual meeting with key stakeholders. The session included Microsoft’s Head of Governance Affairs for Nigeria, Nonye Ujam, and the Chief Executive Officer of Data Science Nigeria (DSN), Dr. Olubayo Adekanmbi.

The meeting focused on Microsoft-supported initiatives aimed at capacity building for the NDPC, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), data protection best practices, and enabling technologies.

Dr. Olatunji, in his remarks, underscored the importance of human capital development as a catalyst for innovation. He noted that this priority aligns seamlessly with the Commission’s strategic roadmap. “The global data protection and privacy ecosystem is evolving rapidly,” he said, reiterating the Commission’s commitment to equipping its workforce with the skills needed to meet international standards.

The training program, supported by Microsoft, aims to enhance the NDPC’s ability to execute its regulatory duties under the Nigeria Data Protection Act effectively. It also seeks to foster a robust culture of privacy and position the Commission as a trailblazing regulatory authority in Africa.

This collaboration signals a renewed effort to champion privacy rights and ensure Nigeria’s compliance with global best practices in data protection.

 

Vice President Shettima Commissions $315 Million FPSO Vessel in Dubai

Vice President Shettima Commissions $315 Million FPSO Vessel in Dubai

 

In a significant milestone for Nigeria’s oil sector reforms, Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the commissioning and naming ceremony of a $315 million Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessel at the Drydocks World Dubai Shipyard in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The state-of-the-art FPSO vessel, which boasts a storage capacity of one million barrels, is expected to revolutionize Nigeria’s oil production capabilities. Initially set to produce 17,000 barrels per day, output is projected to ramp up to 30,000 barrels per day (bpd). The vessel is scheduled to leave Dubai for Nigeria in the first quarter of 2025, with production commencing at the Okwok Oil Field in the first half of the year.

Speaking at the event, Vice President Shettima described the development as a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s energy sector. “This facility represents more than just a maritime infrastructure project; it stands as a testament to the success of President Tinubu’s reforms in the oil sector and Nigeria’s expanding global influence,” he said.

This achievement underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s oil industry and solidifying the nation’s position on the global energy map.

 

South East Shines as Nigeria’s Most Peaceful Region: A Testament to Visionary Leadership and a Beacon for Investment

South East Shines as Nigeria’s Most Peaceful Region: A Testament to Visionary Leadership and a Beacon for Investment

 

In a country where insecurity has become a pressing challenge, the South East of Nigeria is standing out as a symbol of hope and progress. Recent statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the Centre for Economic and Security Policy Studies (CESPS) reveal that the South East has the lowest average ransom amount paid per kidnapping incident nationwide, highlighting its success in tackling one of Nigeria’s most critical issues.

From May 2023 to April 2024, the national average ransom paid per kidnapping incident was ₦2.67 million. However, the South East recorded an average of just ₦2.13 million—remarkably lower than other regions like the South West (₦4.70 million) and the South South (₦3.09 million). This achievement underscores the region’s unique position as a secure and peaceful zone amidst the challenges faced in other parts of the country.

The Leadership Factor: A Strategic Approach to Security

This success story is not a coincidence but a result of deliberate and concerted efforts by the leaders of the South East. Governors, traditional rulers, and community leaders in the region have worked tirelessly to create an environment where security is prioritized.

The adoption of community-driven security initiatives, collaboration between state governments and federal security agencies, and innovative measures like state-backed vigilante groups have played a pivotal role. For instance, states in the region have invested in surveillance technology, community policing, and intelligence-sharing frameworks that have curtailed criminal activities, including kidnapping.

Traditional rulers and local communities have also contributed significantly by fostering a culture of mutual trust and vigilance. By empowering youths with employment opportunities and engaging them in productive ventures, the leadership in the South East has addressed the root causes of criminality, further reducing security risks.

A Region Ripe for Investment

This remarkable track record is not only a victory for the people of the South East but also a clarion call to investors. In today’s global economy, where safety and stability are paramount, the South East has set itself apart as a region where businesses can thrive without fear of disruption.

Cities like Enugu, Aba, Onitsha, and Owerri are now buzzing with economic activity, offering immense potential in industries such as manufacturing, trade, agriculture, and technology. The region’s strategic location, coupled with its industrious population and improved security landscape, makes it a magnet for both local and foreign investors.

Moreover, the South East’s leadership is actively courting investments by improving infrastructure, streamlining business processes, and ensuring that companies operating within the region receive the support they need to succeed.

Acknowledging the Human Impact

Beyond the numbers, the story of the South East is about people—families who feel safer traveling on roads, businesses that can operate without fear, and communities that are reclaiming their lives. The reduced rate of kidnapping has given residents a renewed sense of freedom and hope, enabling them to focus on building their future.

Community leaders, law enforcement officers, and everyday citizens who remain vigilant deserve commendation for their role in creating a peaceful environment. The progress in the South East serves as a reminder that when leadership is visionary and inclusive, change is possible.

Looking Ahead

The South East’s achievements in reducing kidnapping and improving security should not only be celebrated but also sustained. As the region continues to demonstrate its commitment to peace, it sends a clear message to the world: the South East is not just a peaceful region; it is a land of opportunity and promise.

For investors seeking a secure and welcoming environment to grow their businesses, the South East is the ideal destination. Its story is one of resilience, innovation, and unity—a story that holds valuable lessons for the rest of Nigeria.

 

The Truth About Divorce and Property Sharing in Nigeria: What You Need to Know

The Truth About Divorce and Property Sharing in Nigeria: What You Need to Know

 

There’s a growing misconception in Nigeria that once a marriage ends—especially one conducted in a court or a licensed place of worship—spouses are automatically entitled to a 50/50 split of all property. While this idea sounds equitable on the surface, it doesn’t align with the reality of Nigerian law.

The truth is simple: you cannot claim a share of property you did not contribute to acquiring. Unlike in some Western countries where marital assets are split evenly by default, Nigeria’s legal framework prioritizes evidence of contribution. This means that if one spouse builds a house or buys land without financial or documented input from the other, the law does not automatically grant equal ownership.

For instance, if your partner purchased a property before or during the marriage and you made no financial or material contributions, you’re unlikely to receive a share of that property in the event of a divorce. While marriage is a union, property laws in Nigeria treat ownership as an individual matter unless there’s clear proof of joint effort.

However, there are exceptions. Nigerian courts may consider “spousal maintenance” in certain circumstances, such as when a marriage lasts over 15 years and one spouse was restricted from working or earning a living. In these cases, the court might allocate a portion of the property or funds to support the dependent spouse until they can stand independently. But even this provision doesn’t equate to a 50/50 split—it’s about maintenance, not ownership.

This highlights the importance of understanding the legal framework surrounding marriage and property ownership in Nigeria. Marriage isn’t just an emotional or social commitment; it also has financial and legal implications. Spouses should ensure transparency in property acquisition and, where applicable, document joint efforts to protect their interests.

The misconception of an automatic 50/50 property split often leads to bitter disputes, prolonged court cases, and unmet expectations. It’s crucial to approach marriage as a partnership where both parties actively contribute—whether financially, materially, or in other tangible ways. This ensures fairness and clarity should the relationship ever face legal scrutiny.

At its core, this is about knowledge and preparedness. We live in Nigeria, not a Western country with different marital property laws. Understanding this difference is the first step in protecting yourself and making informed decisions in marriage and beyond. Ignorance of the law, as they say, is no excuse.

 

Nigeria’s Mobile Market Sees Promising Growth as Active Subscriptions Reach 157.3 Million in October

Nigeria’s Mobile Market Sees Promising Growth as Active Subscriptions Reach 157.3 Million in October

 

After a challenging period marked by regulatory audits and disruptions, Nigeria’s telecommunications sector is rebounding with renewed vigor. The nation’s mobile subscription base climbed to an impressive 157.3 million in October 2024, up from 154.6 million in the previous month. This marks a significant turnaround following setbacks linked to the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) audit and the implementation of the National Identification Number (NIN)-SIM linkage exercise.

The growth is being driven primarily by MTN and Airtel, two of the country’s largest mobile network operators. MTN, the undisputed market leader, added a staggering 2.2 million new subscriptions in just one month, bringing its total to 80.3 million active lines. This surge has pushed MTN’s market share to 51.09%, solidifying its role as the backbone of Nigeria’s telecom industry.

For Airtel, the month was equally promising. The network saw an influx of 697,430 new subscribers, raising its active base to 54.4 million. This growth translated to a 31.61% market share, further cementing Airtel’s position as a key player in connecting Nigerians across the country.

This recovery extends beyond mere numbers. The rise in active subscriptions has significantly improved Nigeria’s teledensity—a metric that gauges telecom penetration relative to population size. Teledensity grew from 71.46% in September to 72.7% in October, a clear indicator of the industry’s resilience and its ability to adapt to regulatory demands.

However, not all telecom operators are celebrating. Globacom, Nigeria’s third-largest provider, faced another challenging month, losing 44,635 subscriptions. Its active subscriber base now stands at 19.1 million, with its market share slipping to 12.15%. For 9mobile, the struggles are even more pronounced. The operator, which has been battling customer retention issues for years, shed 245,263 subscribers in October, leaving it with a mere 3.3 million active users and a market share of just 2.15%.

The challenges faced by these operators stem largely from the NCC’s rigorous audit, which aimed to cleanse the sector of inaccuracies and ensure compliance with industry guidelines. The audit revealed that one network operator had wrongly classified 40 million inactive lines as active. These lines, which had not generated any revenue for over 90 days, violated the NCC’s criteria for active users and had skewed the industry’s overall data.

For the industry as a whole, these regulatory interventions, while initially disruptive, appear to have laid the groundwork for a more stable and transparent telecom ecosystem. Industry insiders note that the efforts to link SIM cards with NINs and enforce proper registration processes are crucial steps toward creating a system that prioritizes both security and efficiency.

This growth story isn’t just about numbers; it’s about connecting people, businesses, and communities. From bustling urban centers to remote rural villages, telecom operators like MTN and Airtel are driving progress by enabling millions of Nigerians to stay connected, access digital services, and participate in the global economy.

As the industry regains its footing, the onus is now on all players to innovate, compete, and meet the evolving demands of Nigeria’s diverse and dynamic population. For MTN and Airtel, the challenge will be to sustain this growth, while for Globacom and 9mobile, it’s a wake-up call to rethink strategies and reclaim market relevance.

In the words of a telecom analyst, “This recovery is not just a win for the operators but a win for Nigeria. It reflects the potential of a robust telecom sector to drive digital inclusion, economic growth, and societal transformation.”

 

Nigerian Man Transforms Owerri Into a Mini Las Vegas: A Thriving Destination for Luxury and Entertainment

Nigerian Man Transforms Owerri Into a Mini Las Vegas: A Thriving Destination for Luxury and Entertainment

 

Owerri, the capital city of Imo State, Nigeria, is rapidly earning its spot as a premier destination for leisure and luxury seekers. Thanks to the visionary efforts of a Nigerian entrepreneur based in Japan, the city now boasts a hospitality experience akin to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas.

This bold transformation has ignited conversations across Nigeria, with many questioning why anyone would spend scarce foreign currency on overseas vacations when Owerri now offers comparable luxury right at home. With its burgeoning array of five-star hotels and world-class amenities, the city is becoming a haven for weekend getaways and extended vacations.

A Boom in Luxury Hospitality

Owerri’s hospitality scene is nothing short of a marvel. Despite calls for investors to diversify into other economic sectors, the city continues to witness an unprecedented rise in hotel construction. This trend is driven by robust demand, as many of the hotels are consistently fully booked, particularly on weekends. Industry insiders note that the sustained patronage reflects the city’s growing allure among both local and international tourists.

“It’s clear that Owerri has struck a chord with fun seekers,” remarked an observer. “If the hotels weren’t thriving, investors would have pivoted to other sectors. Instead, we see new establishments springing up almost daily.”

Luxury Meets Cultural Pride

The latest entrant to Owerri’s hospitality landscape is a hotel designed to rival the opulence of world-class establishments in cities like Las Vegas and Tokyo. The facility, built by a Nigerian who has lived in Japan for years, showcases a unique blend of luxury and cultural pride. Every corner of the hotel exudes meticulous attention to detail, echoing the advanced designs and superior service standards characteristic of developed countries.

“I love it when people return to their homeland and replicate the wonders they’ve experienced abroad,” said one impressed visitor. “This new hotel is a testament to what’s possible when passion meets global exposure.”

A New Era for Domestic Tourism

The rise of luxury hotels in Owerri is not just about leisure; it’s a statement about the potential of domestic tourism. By offering world-class experiences within Nigeria, these establishments encourage citizens to explore local options, keeping money within the economy while promoting regional development.

As Owerri continues its transformation into a luxury haven, it’s clear that the city is redefining what it means to vacation in Nigeria. For now, the buzz around Owerri as a mini Las Vegas shows no signs of slowing down, solidifying its position as a must-visit destination for those seeking luxury, entertainment, and a taste of homegrown excellence.

#ChukwumaNdiOguluOfficial
#Chucappella
#TheCartel
#LuxuryLiving
#HolidaySeason

 

Social Media Influencers Olivia and Husband Expand Their Luxury Real Estate Portfolio

Social Media Influencers Olivia and Husband Expand Their Luxury Real Estate Portfolio

 

Olivia and her husband, a power couple celebrated for chronicling their daily lives on social media and YouTube, have redefined the concept of financial success in the digital age. Through consistent content creation, they’ve built an empire that continues to generate revenue whether they are working or at rest.

The couple’s success story is reflected in their impressive real estate acquisitions. With five homes already in the United Kingdom, they recently added another luxurious mansion to their portfolio, this time in the upscale neighborhood of Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria. Known for its opulence, this new property is a testament to their extraordinary lifestyle. Reports describe the interior design as nothing short of breathtaking, with features that rival any high-end residence worldwide.

Their lavish lifestyle also includes globe-trotting vacations to destinations of their choice. Whether idle or active, Olivia and her husband’s earnings remain consistent, showcasing the limitless possibilities of leveraging social media for wealth creation.

Speculation suggests that their next property purchase may occur in Abuja or Port Harcourt, further expanding their Nigerian investments. While they reportedly own a house in their hometown, sources indicate that their village property pales in comparison to the grandeur of their Lekki mansion—where even the bathrooms are said to outshine most standard homes.

Fans and followers have suggested that Olivia should consider acquiring properties in Enugu or Owerri to broaden her presence in the southeastern part of Nigeria.

Congratulations to Olivia and her husband on this remarkable achievement. Their journey continues to inspire countless individuals aspiring to make a mark in the digital space.

#ChukwumandiOguluOfficial
#LuxuryLifestyle
#Congratulations2024
#TestimoniesEverywhere

 

Zoracom Reflects on a Successful 2024, Looks Ahead to Greater Heights in 2025

Zoracom Reflects on a Successful 2024, Looks Ahead to Greater Heights in 2025

 

As 2024 draws to a close, Zoracom, Nigeria’s leading cybersecurity and NSOC operations firm, has highlighted its remarkable achievements over the past year. The company shared a reflective message celebrating its innovative contributions, strengthened partnerships, and impactful strides in the cybersecurity industry.

In a statement, Zoracom expressed its gratitude for the successes of 2024, noting that the year was defined by groundbreaking solutions and industry leadership. “2024 has been a year marked by remarkable achievements—we’ve delivered innovative solutions, strengthened valuable partnerships, and made meaningful contributions to our industry,” the statement read.

To commemorate these milestones, Zoracom hosted an end-of-year celebration, providing an opportunity for the team to reflect on their collective accomplishments with pride and gratitude.

Looking ahead to 2025, Zoracom reiterated its commitment to innovation and collaboration. “As we look ahead to 2025, we remain committed to reaching new milestones and shaping a brighter future together. Here’s to continued growth and collaboration!”

The company extended an open invitation for partners and clients to join them on this journey, emphasizing their vision for even greater success in the coming year.

Zoracom’s achievements in 2024 solidify its position as a key player in Nigeria’s cybersecurity landscape, with a promising outlook for 2025.

#Zoracom #EndOfYearCelebration #FutureFocused

 

Opay Digital Honored by CBN for Pioneering Financial Inclusion in Nigeria

Opay Digital Honored by CBN for Pioneering Financial Inclusion in Nigeria

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

As Nigeria’s financial landscape evolves with a focus on innovation and inclusivity, one name has continued to resonate within the fintech space—Opay Digital. Recently, this forward-thinking financial technology firm achieved a remarkable milestone, earning the “Financial Inclusion Innovation Award” at the 2nd Annual International Financial Inclusion Conference, organized by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

This prestigious award recognizes Opay Digital’s groundbreaking contributions toward financial inclusion and its commitment to delivering secure, innovative, and user-centric solutions. For many Nigerians, Opay has become synonymous with accessible financial services, bridging gaps where traditional banking systems have struggled.

The company’s excitement over this achievement was palpable. In a statement shared with their customers and stakeholders, Opay Digital expressed deep gratitude, saying, “We are excited to share that OPay has been awarded the ‘Financial Inclusion Innovation Award’ by the Central Bank of Nigeria! This recognition highlights our unwavering dedication to advancing financial inclusion and delivering secure, innovative, and user-focused financial solutions tailored to your needs.”

The company went further to dedicate this milestone to its loyal customers. “This award is dedicated to you, our esteemed customers, for being an integral part of our journey. Your trust inspires us to innovate and provide simpler, safer ways to manage your finances,” the statement read.

Opay Digital has consistently championed a vision of financial inclusion, ensuring that even the most underserved communities in Nigeria can access the financial tools they need. The company’s robust technology platform, coupled with its customer-first approach, has solidified its position as a trailblazer in the industry.

Reflecting on its journey, Opay pledged to continue redefining financial access and opportunities, promising even more innovative solutions in the future. “Together, we’re breaking boundaries and creating groundbreaking solutions for you. Thank you for your continued support and confidence in OPay as your preferred financial partner,” the company affirmed.

As Nigeria’s financial sector grows more dynamic, recognitions like this reaffirm the importance of fintech players like Opay Digital in driving progress. With a relentless focus on innovation and inclusion, Opay is undoubtedly setting a benchmark for what is possible in the Nigerian financial ecosystem.

—

Anthony Emeka Nwosu writes about technology, innovation, and business trends for TECH AND BIZ NEWS NG and other leading platforms.

 

Afrimash Urges Poultry Farmers to Embrace Best Practices, Stresses Odor Control

Afrimash Urges Poultry Farmers to Embrace Best Practices, Stresses Odor Control

 

Afrimash Nigeria, an agritech firm based in Ibadan, Oyo State, and known for its commitment to supporting the agricultural sector with top-notch services and products, is shining a spotlight on the importance of odor control in poultry farming. The company, which prides itself on helping farmers achieve sustainable success, is now calling attention to an issue that is often underestimated but critical to the health of farms and their surrounding communities.

Speaking about the matter, the CEO of Afrimash, Ayo, explained that while poultry farming plays an essential role in food production, it sometimes brings challenges, including unpleasant odors. These odors, if not addressed, can have far-reaching consequences. They don’t just create discomfort for nearby residents but also pose risks to the environment and even the birds themselves.

“Odor control in poultry farms is not just a courtesy to neighbors—it’s a necessity for the health of the farm and the environment,” Ayo stated. He elaborated that strong odors can degrade air quality, affecting the local ecosystem and leading to environmental pollution. This can, in turn, strain relationships with surrounding communities as persistent bad smells often lead to complaints and even intervention by regulatory bodies.

Beyond the impact on the environment and community, Ayo stressed the implications for the poultry’s well-being. Poor air quality can compromise the respiratory health of the birds, making them more susceptible to diseases. Additionally, he noted that unpleasant odors have a way of affecting the value of properties in the vicinity, a factor that many farmers might not consider when planning their operations.

According to Afrimash, investing in odor control measures is a win for everyone involved. It ensures that farmers can maintain healthy, productive poultry, avoid regulatory issues, and foster goodwill with their neighbors.

Afrimash has also reaffirmed its dedication to educating farmers on the best practices for poultry management. The company regularly shares resources on modern farming techniques and sustainable solutions. “We believe knowledge is key,” Ayo added. “Farmers who stay informed and proactive in addressing challenges like odor control can take their operations to new heights.”

Afrimash encourages poultry farmers and enthusiasts to follow its platforms (@afrimash) for more tips and updates on how to improve poultry health and operations.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

#afrimash #poultryfarming #agritech #sustainability