The 19th Annual Internet Governance Forum (IGF) currently underway in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has proven to be a critical platform for global discussions on the future of internet governance. Among the key figures making impactful contributions is Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, Director General of Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

One of the standout moments of Inuwa’s participation was his involvement in a session focused on “Building Ethical AI: Policy Tool for Human-Centric and Responsible AI Governance.” During the session, Inuwa stressed the importance of ethical development in artificial intelligence (AI) and underscored the role of the Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO) in fostering responsible AI practices.

Inuwa praised the DCO’s Responsible AI Tool, emphasizing its significance as a foundational step toward ensuring AI technologies are developed and deployed in ways that are socially beneficial and aligned with human-centric values.

NITDA’s engagement at the IGF reflects the agency’s dedication to shaping the future of technology, ensuring that AI is harnessed to improve society, and supporting the priorities outlined by Nigeria’s president. These priorities include accelerating national development through industrialization, digitalization, creative arts, manufacturing, and innovation.

By participating in this global dialogue, NITDA is positioning Nigeria as a key player in the responsible governance of emerging technologies, reaffirming its commitment to the betterment of humanity through ethical innovation.

In the face of Nigeria’s ongoing naira crisis and inflation, one silver lining has emerged: local solutions are no longer just an option, but a necessity. Nowhere is this more evident than in the baby food sector, where brands like Moppet Baby Food have not only endured but thrived in an increasingly challenging economic landscape.

Engr. Roberta Edu, the passionate and visionary CEO of Moppet Foods, recently shared her thoughts on the transformative power of local manufacturing in a heartfelt statement. Reflecting on the changes she’s witnessed over the years, Edu remarked, “I remember a time when the baby goods aisle was filled with foreign products. Today, it’s a different story. The shelves are now stocked with locally made products, and Moppet Foods has stood the test of time. Thank God for visionaries who dared to invest in this space when it wasn’t easy.”

Her words not only celebrate the success of Moppet Foods but also point to a larger trend in Nigeria’s retail and manufacturing sectors. As the demand for foreign goods dwindles due to economic constraints, local entrepreneurs are stepping up to fill the gaps. This trend isn’t limited to food; even in fashion, Nigerian brands like Zephans and Karen are becoming household names. It’s a testament to the resilience and creativity of Nigerian entrepreneurs who have refused to be discouraged by external challenges.

Edu’s call for local manufacturing is rooted in her belief that Nigeria’s economic future hinges on the ability to create homegrown solutions. “The way forward, especially for the next generation of Nigerian wealth, is manufacturing. This is where the opportunity lies, particularly in food production,” she stated, underscoring the potential for Nigerians to build businesses that not only meet domestic needs but also create jobs and stimulate the economy.

But Edu’s vision doesn’t stop at manufacturing. As a woman and an entrepreneur, she’s particularly focused on empowering Nigerian women to turn their culinary skills into full-fledged businesses. She wants to see women move beyond cooking for their families to becoming entrepreneurs who contribute significantly to the nation’s economy. “I do not just want Nigerian women to make food at home; I want them to turn their food making into an enterprise, a thriving business that can create jobs and uplift families,” she said, her passion clear.

In line with this mission, Edu has set an ambitious goal for 2025: to support 100 low-income Nigerian women who are eager to start their own manufacturing businesses. This initiative, which will be launched next year, will provide the necessary resources, mentorship, and training to help these women succeed. “Next year, I want to see these women rise, sweat, and work hard to build businesses that will leave a legacy. It’s time for women to take their place at the table of economic transformation,” Edu stated, her voice filled with determination.

The announcement, which will be made this Friday, is expected to be a game-changer for women entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Edu’s commitment to making a difference is evident in her belief that empowering women will not only transform their lives but will also contribute to the broader goal of economic empowerment in the country.

“The future is bright, and it’s in the hands of these women. Are you ready to take the leap and be part of this change?” she asked, encouraging women across Nigeria to join the movement.

As the country grapples with economic challenges, Edu’s unwavering commitment to local manufacturing and women’s empowerment offers a hopeful path forward. With a vision that combines innovation, determination, and a deep sense of purpose, Moppet Foods is not just feeding babies – it’s nurturing the future of Nigerian entrepreneurship.

Stay tuned for Edu’s big announcement on Friday – it’s a step towards building a stronger, more resilient Nigeria, one woman at a time.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

—Chidoka Calls for Action to End Economic and Political Marginalisation

Abuja, Nigeria — December 13, 2024 – The Southeast region of Nigeria has suffered an estimated loss of ₦17.4 trillion over the past 29 years due to the absence of a sixth state, according to Chief Osita Chidoka, Chancellor of the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership and former Minister of Aviation. The figure, adjusted for inflation and currency devaluation, highlights the significant economic and political impact on the region’s federal allocations, governance, and representation.

Chief Chidoka made this declaration during his address at the Otu Oka-Iwu (Association of Igbo Lawyers) event held on December 13, 2024. He described the lack of a sixth state as a critical issue that has deepened the Southeast’s marginalisation while depriving it of resources that could have accelerated development.

“The absence of a sixth state in the Southeast is not just a political oversight but a direct financial loss for our region. Over the past 29 years, the Southeast has lost over ₦17 trillion, which could have fueled economic development, improved infrastructure, and enhanced our political representation in the National Assembly,” Chidoka stated. “This loss is unsustainable, and it is time for us to come together and take the necessary steps to stop these ongoing losses.”

Calling for a united approach, Chidoka urged Southeast leaders to leverage the constitutional process for state creation, as outlined in Section 8(1) of the 1999 Constitution. He explained that the process involves formal requests, legislative approvals, referendums, and nationwide consensus.

“Now is the time for the Southeast to formally request the creation of the sixth state, following the prescribed constitutional process. This is the only way to stop the representation and federal allocation losses,” he said.

Chidoka further emphasised the need for political unity among Southeast leaders, urging them to engage in national politics with a shared agenda. “We must stop crying about the absence of the sixth state and instead focus on what is required to make it a reality. The Southeast must place the burden on the Nigerian state to officially recognise our need for equitable representation, resources, and political power,” he concluded.

The event also featured Senator Ned Nwoko, who passionately advocated for the creation of Anioma State as the sixth Igbo state. According to Senator Nwoko, Anioma State would expand Igbo territorial boundaries by an additional 9,000 square kilometres, strengthening the Southeast’s political and economic influence.

Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for political will and a coordinated push by the region’s leadership. He called for sustained advocacy to ensure the demand for a sixth state gains national recognition and the momentum required for success.

The call for the creation of a sixth state, as championed by Chief Osita Chidoka and other regional leaders, signals a decisive step towards addressing decades of underrepresentation and underdevelopment in the Southeast.