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Dr. Vincent Olatunji Appointed as ID4Africa Deputy Ambassador for Nigeria

Dr. Vincent Olatunji Appointed as ID4Africa Deputy Ambassador for Nigeria

 

Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), has achieved a significant milestone with his appointment as the ID4Africa Deputy Ambassador for Nigeria. This new role, set to commence on January 1, 2025, places Dr. Olatunji at the forefront of identity development efforts across Africa, solidifying his reputation as a key advocate for digital transformation and data protection.

The appointment is a recognition of Dr. Olatunji’s outstanding contributions to the fields of identity management and digital innovation. Announced by Dr. Joseph Atick, Executive Chairman of ID4Africa, the decision reflects Olatunji’s consistent dedication to advancing secure and inclusive identity systems, both within Nigeria and across the continent.

As a Deputy Ambassador, Dr. Olatunji becomes a member of the ID4Africa Ambassadors Bureau, an influential body that drives the vision of the ID4Africa Movement. This Bureau also serves as the Ambassadors Council, a governance platform that steers the continent’s identity agenda. The Council plays a crucial role in shaping policies and fostering collaborations to address Africa’s unique challenges in identification and digital inclusion.

Dr. Olatunji’s appointment is a testament to the growing importance of Nigeria’s role in the Pan-African identity ecosystem. It highlights his leadership in ensuring that data protection and identity systems are not just functional but also transformative, paving the way for national and regional development.

ID4Africa, established as a Pan-African Movement, is dedicated to empowering African nations with the tools and strategies necessary to create robust, reliable, and responsible identity frameworks. The organization’s mission focuses on facilitating development, advancing digital transformation, and supporting humanitarian progress across the continent.

This appointment represents more than just a personal achievement for Dr. Olatunji; it signals a new chapter for Nigeria in its efforts to lead Africa’s journey toward digital empowerment and innovation. His role as Deputy Ambassador will enable him to influence policies and initiatives that ensure every African has access to secure and inclusive identification systems, unlocking opportunities for millions across the continent.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

Imo and Abia Must Wake Up: The Urgent Need to Boost IGR for Development

Imo and Abia Must Wake Up: The Urgent Need to Boost IGR for Development

 

The recent Value Added Tax (VAT) contributions and allocations for South-East states from January to October 2024 have exposed a deeply troubling reality. While other states in the region, such as Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu, are making significant strides in generating revenue, Imo and Abia—both oil-producing states—are failing to live up to their potential.

Here’s a quick look at the VAT numbers:

Anambra: Contributed ₦40.13 billion, received ₦63.35 billion (157.9%).

Ebonyi: Contributed ₦21.98 billion, received ₦49.97 billion (227.3%).

Enugu: Contributed ₦12.99 billion, received ₦54.76 billion (421.4%).

Abia: Contributed just ₦6.50 billion, received ₦51.59 billion (793.1%).

Imo: Contributed a paltry ₦3.33 billion, yet received ₦57.22 billion (1,715.9%).

Imo and Abia, both blessed with abundant natural resources, are lagging embarrassingly behind in revenue generation. Despite their oil-producing status, these states seem to be content with their reliance on federal allocations while failing to harness the economic potential within their borders.

Imo State: A Wasted Opportunity in Tourism and Hospitality

Imo State is sitting on a goldmine of untapped tourism and hospitality potential. From Oguta Lake to the cultural attractions in the state, there is no shortage of opportunities to create wealth. The hospitality sector in particular is thriving, yet the state has failed to implement a comprehensive taxation system to generate revenue from this lucrative industry.

Consider this: if each hotel in Imo were taxed $1,000 annually (a modest amount for businesses in the hospitality sector), and smaller establishments like lounges and bars were charged a minimum operational tax of $300 per year, the revenue generated could be massive. Yet, these opportunities remain ignored.

In addition, Imo should ensure that oil-producing companies operating within the state have their offices in the state. Currently, many of these companies are headquartered in Lagos or Rivers State, depriving Imo of critical taxes and the economic benefits of hosting corporate offices.

Abia State: A Wealthy State Failing to Tax Its Wealth

Abia’s situation is equally frustrating. This is a state with a booming industrial hub in Aba, as well as significant oil resources. Yet, its VAT contributions are among the lowest in the region. Why? The state lacks a structured fiscal policy that enforces tax compliance among its industries.

Factories and industries in Aba should be contributing significantly to the state’s revenue, but many of them are either under-taxed or not taxed at all. Similarly, oil firms operating in Abia continue to maintain offices in other states, effectively transferring the revenue that should belong to Abia to Lagos or Rivers. This is both an economic and administrative failure.

Lessons from Neighboring States

Ebonyi, a state with far fewer resources than Imo and Abia, contributed ₦21.98 billion—almost seven times what Imo contributed. Enugu, which has no oil, contributed ₦12.99 billion. Anambra, with its trade and manufacturing sectors, remains the leader in the South-East, proving that strategic leadership and proper fiscal policies can make all the difference.

If Ebonyi and Enugu can outperform oil-producing states like Imo and Abia, then it’s clear that the problem is not a lack of resources but a failure of governance.

The Consequences of Inaction

If Imo and Abia fail to act, they risk remaining perpetually dependent on federal allocations, a precarious and unsustainable position. Worse still, their failure to capitalize on their resources could see their oil revenues effectively claimed by states like Lagos and Rivers, which host the offices of many oil companies.

This reliance on allocations instead of innovation and internal revenue generation is not just an economic issue; it’s a moral failing. Imo and Abia must stop being tax havens for businesses unwilling to contribute their fair share to development.

The Way Forward

1. Tourism and Hospitality Taxes: Imo must implement a fair and enforceable taxation policy for the hospitality industry, with hotels and entertainment centers contributing their share to state coffers.

2. Industrial and Oil Revenues: Abia must ensure that its factories are adequately taxed and that oil firms operating in the state establish offices within its borders.

3. Fiscal Accountability: Both states need transparent policies to ensure that every naira collected is channeled into infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other development initiatives.

4. Political Will: Leadership in both states must rise to the challenge and embrace innovation in revenue generation.

 

A Call for Leadership

The resources and opportunities are there. What’s missing is the vision and political will to harness them. Imo and Abia cannot afford to continue on their current path of underperformance. They must take bold steps to shore up their Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and secure their futures.

The time to act is now. Anything less is a betrayal of their people and their potential.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

NITDA Promotes Nigeria Startup Act in Dutse to Boost Digital Innovation

NITDA Promotes Nigeria Startup Act in Dutse to Boost Digital Innovation

 

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), through its Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), has intensified efforts to promote the Nigeria Startup Act (NSA) by engaging key stakeholders in Dutse, Jigawa State. This initiative is part of the NSA State Domestication tour aimed at fostering digital innovation and entrepreneurial growth across the country.

During the tour, the NITDA team visited notable institutions, including Galaxy ITT, Dutse Polytechnic, Startup Jigawa, and Kool Tech Academy. These visits focused on raising awareness about the benefits of the NSA and encouraging local startups to leverage its opportunities for business expansion and sustainability.

The domestication initiative is designed to empower entrepreneurs, particularly in underserved regions, by transforming innovative ideas into viable enterprises. It also aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s strategic goal of accelerating economic diversification through industrialisation, digitisation, creative arts, and manufacturing.

Through this engagement, NITDA aims to build a robust startup ecosystem across Nigeria, ensuring that young innovators and small businesses contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth and technological advancement.

 

NCC Partners with ICANN to Enhance Cybersecurity Awareness with DNSSEC Webinar

NCC Partners with ICANN to Enhance Cybersecurity Awareness with DNSSEC Webinar

 

In a bold step towards strengthening Nigeria’s internet security landscape, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is set to host a groundbreaking webinar on Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC). This free virtual event, designed to enlighten stakeholders on the critical role of DNSSEC in safeguarding internet infrastructure, is scheduled for Thursday, December 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. WAT.

The NCC, in a notice published on its verified social media platforms on December 9, 2024, revealed that the session is being organized in collaboration with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a global organization dedicated to ensuring a secure, stable, and unified internet.

Why This Matters
As the internet continues to drive Nigeria’s digital economy, cyber threats have become a growing concern. The DNSSEC protocol, an essential tool for enhancing internet security, prevents malicious activities such as domain hijacking and data breaches. This webinar is part of the NCC’s broader mission to create a safer and more resilient internet environment for Nigerians.

“The objective of this webinar is to promote DNSSEC validation and ensure that by the first quarter of 2025, Nigeria achieves at least a 50% DNSSEC validation rate,” the NCC stated. “We are committed to ensuring increased awareness of DNSSEC by the end of this year.”

Meet the Speakers
The event will feature a lineup of distinguished experts who will shed light on the practical implementation and benefits of DNSSEC:

Babagana Digima, Head of New Media and Information Security at NCC, will provide insights into NCC’s ongoing efforts to bolster cybersecurity in Nigeria.

Dr. Ibiso Kingsley-George, Head of the Internet Governance Unit at NCC, will discuss the policy framework and the global significance of DNSSEC.

Yazid Akanho, Technical Engagement Manager for the Middle East and Africa at ICANN, will bring an international perspective on DNSSEC adoption and its impact across the region.

How to Participate
The NCC has extended an open invitation to industry professionals, academics, IT enthusiasts, and the general public to join this informative session. Registration details are available via the link: https://bit.ly/DNSSECWebinarReg.

This webinar reflects the NCC’s proactive approach to equipping Nigeria’s digital ecosystem with the tools and knowledge needed to combat cyber threats. By collaborating with ICANN, the Commission aims to position Nigeria as a leader in internet security practices across Africa.

For participants, this is more than just a webinar—it’s an opportunity to contribute to the nation’s journey toward a safer, more secure digital future.

 

Abuja Agog, as Makems Excites Fashion Lovers at 2024 Jewellery Exhibition

Abuja Agog, as Makems Excites Fashion Lovers at 2024 Jewellery Exhibition

 

 

·       Promotes FG’s local content policy initiative

 

Makems Jewellery, an Abuja-based fast-rising jewellery-making company in Nigeria, has set the city agog, as it recently held its annual jewellery exhibition with a wide range of trendy, fine and unique handmade, locally-produced and imported jewellery products on display for hundreds of visitors to the venue of the event.

 

The jewellery exhibition was an expertly-curated showcase of exceptional ornaments, ranging from contemporary designs to vintage treasures such as Makems handmade jewellery, earrings, long necklaces, jewellery set, bangles and bracelets, rings and male bracelets, among others with special focus on promoting local contents, which aligns with Federal Government’s policy direction on promotion of local contents in all sectors of the economy.

 

The annual Makems 2024 Jewellery Exhibition, which took place on December 7, 2024 at the Glowing Ages Academy, Games Village Road, Kaura District, Abuja attracted fashion lovers and potential clients, who used the opportunity to purchase trendy jewellery of their choice which meet their status as the Yuletide season begins while networking with other visitors.

 

Addressing stakeholders and visitors at the event, the Director of Business Development at Makems, Miss Temitope Adejare, said Makems Jewellery makes unique jewellery products locally and also sell imported jewellery products as well.

 

“Considering what has been happening in the economy in the area of dollar exchange to Naira, you will realise that things that are imported have become so expensive because they are in dollar. So, what we have done at Makems Jewellery is to ensure that we source for local jewellery materials and we have a lot of them that are locally-made in Nigeria on display at this exhibition.

 

“Makems Jewellery has a passion for making jewellery and we now make do with what we can really do in Nigeria and we have been able to come out with beautiful jewellery pieces that people really love at this exhibition,” Adejare said.

 

She explained that “what we do is unique to an individual. We do not repeat the design. So, if you buy any Makems jewellery piece, it is the only one that exists in terms of design. Overtime, people have come to know this and they love it also and they like coming for the exhibition.”

 

According to her, Makems works year round to gather the best of locally-manufactured jewellery products as well as some imported designs and bring people together at the exhibition to come and see the various designs that Makems has brought on display for the season for them to purchase their favourite designs.

 

“As you can see, we sell imported jewellery pieces as well but as you may have observed, most people would be at the Stand for Nigerian-handmade jewellery products because they are more unique, more durable and are very nice. This means, our locally-produced collection of jewellery appeals more to our clients.

“Makems Jewellery has a passion for making jewellery and we now make do with what we can really do in Nigeria and we have been able to come out with beautiful jewellery pieces that people really love at this exhibition,” Adejare said.

 

“Why most people run from Nigerian-made products is literally because of the quality. Most of the time, people that do local contents tend to compromise quality standards but what we have done at Makems is to ensure that what we have is of high quality even better than many of the imported jewellery, as the designs are nice and unique and meet the expectation of Nigeria across social divides.

 

Speaking on affordability, the Business Development Director said because the products are domiciled in Naira, “you find out that it is easier for people to buy.” She optimistically noted that Makems was targeting “exporting our locally-manufactured jewellery products in the long run, thereby helping Nigeria’s Naira-to-dollar exchange to appreciate through local production of the fashion products and exports.”

 

According to her, “With what we have done at Makems, we have a lot of staff that we have employed and this also means we are creating employment opportunity for Nigerians across the value chain. We are also available online across social media platforms for online purchase of our products.”

 

Adejare added that Makems’ plan is to become a household name as an indigenous jewellery-sourcing and production firm, thereby enhancing the government’s policy direction to deepen local content, improve value addition through offerings of durable, comfortable and affordable jewellery products in Nigeria in the next few years.

 

Peter Obi Decries Nigeria’s Endemic Corruption, Calls for Accountability on International Anti-Corruption Day

Peter Obi Decries Nigeria’s Endemic Corruption, Calls for Accountability on International Anti-Corruption Day

 

As the global community marks International Anti-Corruption Day, former Anambra State Governor and presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, has issued a strong condemnation of the pervasive corruption undermining Nigeria’s development. Obi described corruption as the “bane of our national development” and urged both leaders and citizens to take decisive action against it.

In a statement released to the media, Obi referenced recent findings by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), which highlighted how corruption has crippled Nigeria economically and socially. He also cited the nation’s low ranking of 145 out of 180 on the Corruption Perception Index and its classification among the 11 worst-governed African countries over the past decade.

“From lack of transparency in budgeting and allocation of funds to the misappropriation of public resources, corruption manifests in various ways across different levels of government,” Obi said. He noted specific issues such as budget padding, contract inflation, oil theft, and bribery, which he described as persistent problems clogging the wheels of national progress.

Obi drew attention to a recent report from the Auditor-General of the Federation, which uncovered financial infractions totaling N3.403 trillion in government ministries, departments, and agencies for the 2021 fiscal year. “This amount, bigger than 20% of our national budget for that year, remains unaccounted for, a clear indication of systemic corruption,” he stated.

He further criticized the government’s increasing appetite for loans, which he claimed lack corresponding investments or economic impact, fueling suspicions of misappropriation.

Calling on anti-corruption agencies to intensify their efforts, Obi urged them to prioritize high-profile cases of national interest, such as oil theft and bribery for political appointments. He also stressed the importance of holding guilty parties accountable through “stern justice.”

Obi appealed to leaders to reflect on their roles and eschew corrupt practices, while encouraging citizens to resist corruption in their daily lives. “In any organization or nation where the leaders are not corrupt, corruption is reduced by over 60%, and fighting the remaining becomes manageable,” he emphasized.

Reiterating his commitment to a corruption-free Nigeria, Obi concluded with his trademark slogan, “A New Nigeria is POssible.”

 

Africa’s Largest Rice Importers in 2023: Cote D’Ivoire Tops the

Africa’s Largest Rice Importers in 2023: Cote D’Ivoire Tops the

 

The 2023 figures for rice imports across Africa reveal a significant disparity in import volumes among countries, with Cote D’Ivoire emerging as the continent’s largest importer. According to data from Trade Map, the top 10 African rice importers collectively represent billions of dollars in imports, highlighting the growing demand for the staple crop in the region.

Top 10 African Rice Importers in 2023:

1. Cote D’Ivoire – $722.1 million

2. Benin – $653.4 million

3. South Africa – $634.7 million

4. Senegal – $498.0 million

5. Kenya – $392.4 million

6. Mozambique – $349.5 million

7. Guinea – $335.8 million

8. Niger – $307.0 million

9. Ghana – $286.3 million

10. Djibouti – $273.6 million

 

Cote D’Ivoire leads with an import value of $722.1 million, closely followed by Benin and South Africa, whose imports were valued at $653.4 million and $634.7 million, respectively. These figures underscore the critical role rice plays in these economies as a dietary staple and its contribution to food security.

Nigeria: A Notable Outlier

Interestingly, Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, recorded rice imports worth only $191,000, a stark contrast to its West African counterparts. This reflects the country’s policy focus on boosting local rice production through initiatives aimed at achieving self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on imports.

The report, released by Statisense, offers insights into Africa’s evolving agricultural landscape and the economic significance of rice trade across the continent.

 

USPF Commemorates International Day of Persons with Disabilities by Promoting Digital Inclusion

USPF Commemorates International Day of Persons with Disabilities by Promoting Digital Inclusion

 

On the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), an agency under the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), hosted an inspiring event aimed at promoting inclusion and accessibility for persons with disabilities. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of their physical abilities.

In line with this year’s theme of inclusion, the USPF took a significant step forward in its mission to empower and support persons with disabilities through its E-Accessibility Project. This project is designed to provide schools across Nigeria with the necessary Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools and assistive technologies to create a more inclusive and accessible learning environment. By equipping educational institutions with these essential resources, the USPF is not just facilitating access to education but also promoting independence, empowerment, and equal participation for individuals with disabilities.

Through the provision of specialized tools, such as screen readers, adaptive keyboards, and other assistive devices, the USPF is bridging the digital divide that often excludes persons with disabilities from fully engaging with the digital world. These efforts are helping to break down barriers and create a more inclusive society where everyone has the chance to succeed, regardless of their challenges.

The E-Accessibility Project represents a vision of a future where technology and innovation work in harmony to level the playing field for all, creating a more equitable and accessible educational experience for persons with disabilities. The USPF, through its dedication to this cause, is not only enhancing access to education but also ensuring that persons with disabilities are given the tools they need to thrive in today’s digital age.

As the USPF continues to push forward with its mission, it remains committed to expanding these opportunities and fostering a culture of inclusion, both within Nigeria and globally. Through projects like the E-Accessibility initiative, the USPF is making significant strides toward a more inclusive future where digital access and opportunities are available to all.

#NCC #Inclusion #DigitalDivide #EAccessibility #Empowerment

 

Trump Weighs in on Syria: A Call for Caution and Non-Involvement

Trump Weighs in on Syria: A Call for Caution and Non-Involvement

 

In a fiery and candid statement shared via his Twitter account (now X), Donald Trump, the incoming President of the United States, addressed the intensifying conflict in Syria. His remarks touched on the dramatic advances made by opposition fighters, the limitations of Russian influence, and what he sees as a historical misstep by the Obama administration.

According to Trump, the opposition forces have launched a highly coordinated and unprecedented offensive, successfully taking over numerous cities and now positioning themselves on the outskirts of Damascus. This move, he noted, suggests they are preparing for a decisive attempt to overthrow President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

Trump pointed to Russia’s diminished ability to intervene, citing their heavy losses in Ukraine. “Russia seems incapable of stopping this literal march through Syria, a country they have protected for years,” he remarked, adding that the toll of the Ukraine conflict, with over 600,000 Russian soldiers reportedly lost, has left Moscow overextended and unable to sustain its military commitments elsewhere.

But Trump’s critique extended beyond current events, as he turned his attention to the past. He revisited President Obama’s handling of Syria, particularly the infamous “red line” moment, when the Obama administration failed to act after Assad reportedly crossed the chemical weapons threshold. Trump argued that this failure paved the way for Russia to step in and assert its influence, primarily to embarrass the U.S. “There was never much of a benefit in Syria for Russia, other than to make Obama look really stupid,” Trump quipped.

In his characteristic straightforward style, Trump suggested that the apparent decline of Russian and Assad control might ultimately work in their favor, remarking, “It may actually be the best thing that can happen to them.” However, he was unequivocal in his assessment of the conflict’s relevance to America. “Syria is a mess,” Trump said. “It’s not our friend, and THE UNITED STATES SHOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT. LET IT PLAY OUT.”

Trump’s comments reflect a deeply ingrained philosophy: that America must avoid unnecessary entanglements in foreign conflicts. His stance resonates with his broader “America First” agenda, which emphasizes focusing resources and attention on domestic issues rather than engaging in overseas conflicts that do not directly serve U.S. interests.

At a time when international tensions are mounting, Trump’s message is both a critique of past foreign policy and a call for prudence in the future. Whether or not his perspective will shape the U.S. response remains to be seen, but it offers a clear vision of his priorities as he prepares to assume office once again.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

NCC Takes a Bold Step to Harness 6GHz Spectrum for Faster Internet in Nigeria

NCC Takes a Bold Step to Harness 6GHz Spectrum for Faster Internet in Nigeria

 

In today’s world, where everything revolves around connectivity, speed, and innovation, having a solid digital infrastructure is no longer a luxury but a necessity. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has shown it understands this reality as it announces moves to harness the 6GHz spectrum. This development could mark a new chapter for Nigeria’s digital economy and for millions of Nigerians who rely on the internet for their daily lives.

The 6GHz spectrum is a critical resource in the world of communication technology. It is the backbone for developing next-generation wireless systems, including 6G and advanced Wi-Fi technologies like Wi-Fi 7. With its ability to handle massive data transfers at lightning speed, the 6GHz spectrum is already being tapped by leading economies around the globe. Nigeria’s decision to explore this frequency is not just timely but necessary for keeping up with the digital transformation shaping our world.

For Nigerians, this move is more than just about technology; it’s about solving real problems. Internet speed and congestion have been long-standing issues. Many people, whether in urban areas or remote villages, often struggle with poor connectivity that slows down their work, studies, or entertainment. With the 6GHz spectrum, these problems could soon be a thing of the past.

Think of faster internet that allows seamless streaming, quicker downloads, and hassle-free online meetings. Imagine students in the most remote parts of Nigeria being able to participate fully in virtual classes without the frustration of poor signals. This spectrum opens up those possibilities and more. It also means that industries like healthcare, agriculture, and education can leverage better connectivity for innovations like telemedicine, precision farming, and interactive e-learning platforms.

Moreover, the 6GHz spectrum lays the foundation for technologies of the future—things like smart cities, where everything from traffic to electricity is managed through real-time data; or the Internet of Things (IoT), where devices communicate with each other to make life easier for everyone. This move by the NCC is also a chance to bridge the digital divide. In a country where access to broadband is still uneven, especially in rural areas, this spectrum can help bring connectivity to places that need it the most.

Globally, countries like the US and China have already started utilizing the 6GHz spectrum to enhance their technological edge. For Nigeria, getting it right with this frequency is not just about keeping up but also about positioning ourselves as a leader in Africa’s digital economy. It is an opportunity to attract investors, create jobs, and open doors to innovations that will drive our economy forward.

The NCC’s efforts to harness the 6GHz spectrum show foresight and a commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians through technology. This isn’t just a story about frequencies and data; it’s about building a brighter, faster, and more connected Nigeria. As we embark on this journey, one thing is clear: the future is digital, and Nigeria is ready to embrace it.