ProvidusBank, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, has announced the launch of a N50 billion commercial paper program, offering investors the opportunity to subscribe to short-term debt securities issued by the bank. The program, which will be available for investor subscriptions, is aimed at raising funds to support the bank’s growth and operations while contributing to the broader stability and growth of Nigeria’s economy.

Key Features of the Commercial Paper Program

The N50 billion commercial paper program is designed to raise funds for general corporate purposes, including working capital needs and the funding of key projects. The program will provide investors with a secure investment avenue while ensuring that ProvidusBank maintains the financial strength necessary to drive its operations and support Nigeria’s economic development.

The commercial paper is being offered with attractive interest rates and is aimed at a wide range of investors, including institutional and retail investors. It is expected to strengthen the bank’s liquidity position and allow it to continue expanding its services in a competitive market. The initiative also aligns with ProvidusBank’s commitment to delivering value to its stakeholders and sustaining its position as a leader in Nigeria’s financial sector.

Impact on Nigeria’s Economic Growth

This move is significant for both ProvidusBank and the Nigerian economy at large. By launching this commercial paper program, the bank is helping to diversify the country’s financial markets, offering investors a new and attractive way to participate in the growth of one of Nigeria’s prominent banks. The program also signals ProvidusBank’s strong financial health and willingness to expand its reach, both within Nigeria and in the broader African market.

Additionally, the success of the commercial paper program will enhance Nigeria’s capital markets, providing a boost to investor confidence. The funds raised will be directed into productive investments that can drive further growth in key sectors of the economy, from agriculture to technology and infrastructure.

Supporting Financial Inclusion and Stability

In a time when economic stability is critical, especially in emerging markets like Nigeria, the ability of banks like ProvidusBank to raise capital through such innovative instruments plays a pivotal role. The successful implementation of the commercial paper program will provide a strong foundation for the bank to continue offering its financial products and services, thereby supporting financial inclusion, improving access to capital for businesses, and contributing to overall economic stability.

Nigerian Economic Outlook and the Role of Commercial Papers

Commercial papers are becoming an increasingly important tool in Nigeria’s financial landscape, offering a more efficient way for corporations and banks to raise short-term funds. By tapping into the growing investor interest in such instruments, ProvidusBank is aligning itself with global best practices and helping to deepen Nigeria’s capital markets.

The N50 billion program is also expected to offer competitive returns for investors, enhancing Nigeria’s attractiveness as an investment destination amidst a diverse and dynamic economy. This initiative positions ProvidusBank as a forward-thinking institution, one that understands the financial needs of both investors and the broader economy.

ProvidusBank’s N50 billion commercial paper program marks a pivotal moment for the institution and the Nigerian economy. By providing a channel for investment and securing critical funding for its operations, the bank is contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s financial ecosystem and supporting economic development. The move also underscores the bank’s leadership and commitment to promoting stability, financial inclusion, and innovation in Nigeria’s capital markets.

As the program progresses, it is expected to provide valuable opportunities for investors while cementing ProvidusBank’s role as a key player in Nigeria’s evolving financial sector.

In a renewed effort to strengthen industry collaboration and accelerate Nigeria’s energy transition agenda, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Mr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, today received a delegation from Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) on a high-level courtesy visit at the NNPC Towers in Abuja.

The visit marks a significant step in ongoing efforts to align the objectives of both institutions in advancing sustainable energy solutions, deepening gas infrastructure, and enhancing Nigeria’s energy security.

Welcoming the NLNG team, Mr. Ojulari described the company as a “strategic business entity vital to Nigeria’s economic resilience and energy future.” He reiterated NNPC Ltd.’s vision of ensuring equitable energy access for all Nigerians while fostering a cleaner, more diversified energy ecosystem.

“The Nigeria LNG is not just a business partner; it is a national asset. We are committed to working closely with NLNG to unlock new opportunities in gas supply, decarbonization, and human capital development,” Ojulari stated.

The GCEO emphasized the importance of synergy between both organisations in ensuring the successful implementation of Nigeria’s Decade of Gas initiative — a federal strategy aimed at transforming Nigeria into a gas-powered economy by expanding domestic gas utilization and exports.

On his part, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NLNG, Dr. Philip Mshelbila, congratulated Mr. Ojulari on his recent appointment as GCEO of NNPC Ltd. and commended the leadership team for its renewed drive to reposition Nigeria’s energy industry.

Dr. Mshelbila expressed confidence in the capacity of the NNPC leadership to lead meaningful reforms in the sector. He noted that the strong alignment of purpose between both entities sets the stage for a more impactful collaboration that will benefit not only the energy market but also millions of Nigerians.

“We believe this partnership is critical for addressing Nigeria’s energy needs, enhancing the role of gas in our transition journey, and positioning the country as a global energy player,” Dr. Mshelbila noted.

During the meeting, both parties expressed a shared commitment to exploring joint strategies on key areas such as:

  • Reliable and sustainable gas supply for domestic and industrial use;

  • Decarbonization and climate-conscious energy production;

  • Talent development and exchange programs to strengthen technical capacity in the sector.

The courtesy visit also provided a platform to reaffirm mutual support for ongoing national policies and reforms targeted at boosting investor confidence and positioning Nigeria as a competitive energy destination on the continent.

Accompanying Dr. Mshelbila on the visit were key members of the NLNG leadership team including:

  • Mr. Olakunle Osobu (Deputy Managing Director)

  • Dr. Sophia Horsfall (General Manager, External Relations & Sustainable Development)

  • Mr. Akachukwu Nwokedi (General Counsel/Company Secretary)

  • Mr. Godson Dienye (Manager, Government Relations & Regulatory Compliance)

  • Mr. Sulaimon Adebayo (Technical Assistant to the MD)

  • Ms. Nengi Amadi (Senior Government Relations Advisor)

  • Mr. Rufai Lawal (Senior Government Relations Advisor)

The meeting ended on a positive note with both teams agreeing to sustain high-level engagements and collaborate on industry-transforming initiatives that will deliver long-term value for Nigeria’s economy and people.

 

Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, has announced that Nigerian pilgrims undertaking the 2025 Hajj will be granted access to cash for their transactions, following approval by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Speaking after a meeting held yesterday in his office with officials from the CBN and the National Hajj Commission, Shettima said the decision was made to ensure the smooth planning and successful execution of the upcoming pilgrimage to Mecca.

Earlier this year, the CBN had introduced a revised payment system requiring all pilgrims to open Basic Travel Allowance (BTA)-linked bank accounts and use ATM debit cards for transactions during their stay in Saudi Arabia. The new arrangement raised widespread concerns among stakeholders, who feared it could disrupt operational logistics and overall pilgrimage performance.

“Following our intervention, pilgrims will now receive their allowances in cash — ensuring convenience and continuity in the Hajj process,” the Vice President stated.

The move is expected to ease the financial processes for intending pilgrims and prevent any challenges that may have arisen from the mandatory use of debit cards.

On the sidelines of the World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings and following the institution’s Development Committee session, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, reaffirmed Nigeria’s collaboration with the World Bank to advance a shared agenda focused squarely on creating high-quality jobs for young Nigerians.

“Employment generation must be a central pillar of development,” Mr. Edun told journalists, highlighting that Finance Ministers—who serve as the Bank’s Governors—have collectively made this their top priority. “This aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places job creation at the core of our economic revitalization efforts.”

Mr. Edun underscored the pivotal role of multilateral financial institutions in shaping these global development priorities. “We are scaling up efforts with the World Bank to create sustainable jobs and stimulate inclusive growth,” he said, adding that the Tinubu administration is determined to unlock private capital, attract local and foreign investment, and accelerate job creation across all sectors.

A cornerstone of this strategy is the rollout of digital infrastructure to support Nigeria’s burgeoning youth population. By expanding access to high-speed internet, data services, and fibre-optic networks, the Minister explained, young Nigerians will be empowered to offer services online, retain talent domestically, and drive the nation’s digital economy.

“Job creation is the most effective route to reducing poverty and inequality,” Mr. Edun emphasized. “Good-quality jobs are essential to stabilizing the economy, encouraging private investment, and ensuring our youth find opportunities here at home—rather than abroad.”

This partnership between the Federal Government and the World Bank signals a unified commitment to

  • Tackling unemployment through targeted financing and policy support

  • Fostering inclusive prosperity by creating pathways into the formal economy

  • Building a digital-ready workforce equipped to compete in the modern global marketplace

As Nigeria and the World Bank move forward together, this collaboration promises to lay the groundwork for a generation of young Nigerians who are digitally empowered, economically engaged, and ready to lead the country’s next wave of growth.

 

  • The region’s largest inaugural tech, startup, and digital investments event is officially underway at Marina Bay Sands after action-packed opening day

 

After weeks of increasing anticipation among the regional and international tech communities, the first-ever GITEX ASIA x Ai Everything Singapore began in blistering fashion on Wednesday as capacity crowds enjoyed an action-packed opening day agenda. Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and KAOUN International in affiliation with GITEX GLOBAL, the Asian inaugural edition of the world’s largest show is running at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore from April 23-25.

Under the theme ‘Advancing Bold Partnerships in Asia‘, the region’s largest inaugural tech, startup, and digital investments event welcomes 700+ enterprises and award-winning startups from 20+ industry sectors and 70+ countries. Alongside 400+ global expert speakers and 250+ leading investors managing US$200 billion in assets under management (AUM), it stands to present unparalleled access to new markets, capital, talent, relationships, and opportunities.

An opening ceremony launched this unmissable three-day celebration of technological innovation, visionary collaboration, and universal digital ambition, where those who helped bring the event to life elaborated on its inspiration and what audiences can expect.

Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC and CEO of KAOUN International, said: “We’re delighted to launch the region’s largest inaugural tech, startup, and digital investments here in Singapore, but this is not about the size. It’s about our commitment to bringing global ecosystems, countries, and cities together, powering human capital, benchmarking with the world, and forging new alliances, relationships, ideas, and opportunities whilst making the whole global universe of AI much bigger and more competitive. Whether from established markets or rising emerging economies, our responsibility is ensuring we connect and provide the chance to collaborate and compete. It’s about driving public-private partnerships and cross-industry, cross-continental collaboration because that’s the only way to go even faster and further in the new AI economy. This is the mission of GITEX.”

The Cybercrime Conundrum: Addressing A Looming US$23 Trillion Threat

Throughout its three-day duration, GITEX ASIA x Ai Everything Singapore hosts powerful debates surrounding the most pressing topics in tech – welcoming renowned tech leaders, founders, investors, national digital agency officials and regulators to discuss the fastest-changing competitive developments as formidable companies showcase the latest tech solutions revolutionising societies and industries.

Across 180+ hours of content and eight key themes, a thrilling journey into technology’s new frontiers awaits visitors through a world-class event and exhibition programme – one with cybersecurity at its core alongside AI, cloud, quantum, green tech, health tech & biotech, smart cities, startups and more.

Addressing audiences during the event inauguration, H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity, UAE Government, stated: “Cybercrime does not distinguish between nations, businesses, startups, or people – and this is why we must be the first line of defence against malicious actors and build a security culture that transcends across the whole continent and beyond. This culture is a pillar of societal prosperity, security, and success. Being here in Singapore alongside so many great ecosystem partners, national security agencies, and cyber security companies amplifies our message that cyber security is paramount and integral to everything we do in a transforming digital world. We are gathered here to make this happen and forge a safe, secure, and resilient future through which digital ecosystems and economies thrive.”

For his part, Ahmed AlKetbi, Deputy Ambassador, Head of Economic, Trade and Investment, UAE Embassy in Singapore, elaborated on the robust ties between Singapore and the UAE, further enforcing H.E. Dr. Al Kuwaiti’s message that cooperation is a prerequisite to nations overcoming common obstacles and realising shared objectives.

During his inauguration address, AlKetbi added: “GITEX ASIA x Ai Everything Singapore represents an empowering platform for enhancing bilateral trade and relationships spanning government, business, people, and the private sector. Already, the UAE and Singapore enjoy a S$24 billion bilateral trade partnership, and the UAE is proud to be Singapore’s main partner in the MENA region. Furthermore, in 2019, the two governments signed the UAE-Singapore Comprehensive Partnership, a framework aimed at deepening existing areas of cooperation and exploring new areas of mutual benefit. We are open to expanding such relationships to any ambitious communities, countries, and continents – and we look forward to fruitful, comprehensive discussions throughout this week and beyond.”

With FBI and IMF projecting that average annual cybercrime costs could skyrocket from US$8.4 trillion in 2022 to over US$23 trillion by 2027, the cybercrime conundrum engulfing business communities worldwide headlined day one discussions during the GITEX Digital AI Economy Summit.

David Koh, Commissioner of Cybersecurity and Chief Executive, Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, revealed: “Singapore remains steadfast in our commitment to building a secure, open, resilient, and interoperable digital world. Even as we jostle with geopolitical tensions and transnational technological change unconstrained by geography, we should always remember that the future is in our hands. In the cyberspace, like-minded countries must work together to strengthen frameworks for responsible state behaviour, establish common security challenges solutions, develop common technical standards to safeguard digital devices, and invest in our people. Amidst uncertainties around us, there is  no better place to come together to respond to, and seize, the opportunities ahead of us.”

Unlocking US$5 Trillion Value Potential: Asia’s Healthcare Revolution Assessed

Across the opening day programming, GITEX ASIA x Ai Everything Singapore presented invaluable opportunities to gain eye-opening market development forecasts and disruptive deep tech projections from leading visionaries in their respective fields.

Various feature events co-located across the show floor presented the most potent debates and thought-provoking perspectives surrounding the AI phenomenon transcending increasingly digitalisation industries, including healthcare through GITEX Digi Health & Biotech.Asia's largest inaugural tech, startup, and digital investments, GITEX ASIA x Ai Everything, launch a new era of tech in the region..jpeg

According to Boston Consulting Group, Asia’s healthcare market could reach a whopping US$5 trillion by 2030, illustrating technology’s vast potential to completely redefine industries and fuel economic growth.

With the rise of AI-driven diagnostics, Datuk Dr. Kuljit Singh, President of the Association of Private Hospitals, Malaysia, shared his perspective on how digital health companies should balance technological innovation with ethical considerations and patient safety. He said: “Digital health companies should prioritise transparency, ensuring AI-driven diagnostics are explainable and accountable. They must engage in robust testing to uphold patient safety while fostering collaboration with healthcare professionals. Ethical considerations, such as data privacy and equitable access, should guide innovation, aligning technological advancements with patient-centric care and societal well-being.”

GITEX ASIA x Ai Everything Singapore continues on Thursday. North Star Asia, the world’s largest startup, accelerator, and investor connector event, is set to star alongside Ai Everything, the region’s most groundbreaking AI showcase, and the GITEX Quantum Expo Asia, destined to set the scene for a new computing era regionally and beyond.

With progress made in accelerating financial inclusion to unbanked and underbanked communities in Nigeria, the Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities Limited (SANEF) has posited Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the next step to advancement in financial services in the country.

Speaking at the just concluded Payments Forum Nigeria (PAFON 2.0), Uche Uzoebo (Mrs.), MD/CEO, SANEF Limited, noted that as technology evolves rapidly within the financial ecosystem, Financial Inclusion must continue to be at the center of the nation’s progress.

According to her, agent banking has been a game-changer in expanding financial inclusion across Nigeria. “By deploying agents in underserved areas, we have brought financial services and banking products such as account opening, cash in, cash out, bill payment, transfers and other services closer to the unbanked and underserved.”

With the Agent Banking model, SANEF has bridged critical gaps by reducing the need for long queues in physical bank branches, allowing individuals in the hinterland areas to access banking services without traveling long distances. Additionally, agents often communicate in local languages, making transactions easier for those with limited literacy, while reducing reliance on complex documentation. This has remained a critical and important elixir in Financial Inclusion.

She however noted that AI presents a huge opportunity to align with global trends in pushing financial inclusion further and faster.

“It is no gainsaying that, Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) is transforming the financial services industry at an unprecedented pace, reshaping how businesses interact with customers, manage risks, and expand financial inclusion. It has become the invisible engine driving the modernization of financial products and services. It is no longer a futuristic concept; it is at work right now all over the world, powering mobile banking apps, automating customer service, detecting fraud and enabling instant lending decisions.

In Nigeria, where millions remain unbanked and underbanked, Artificial Intelligence presents a game-changing opportunity to bridge financial gaps, enhance accessibility, and improve the overall efficiency of the financial ecosystem.”

She disclosed that the application of AI in the system will among other things, help to:

Ø  Minimize KYC Roadblocks

Ø  Detect Fraud and Flag Suspicious activities in real-time thus enhancing greater trust in digital payments and solutions

Ø  Personalize and Tailor Financial products and services according to customers’ specific needs, amongst other key benefits and advantages.

While highlighting the benefits of AI in the ecosystem, Mrs. Uzoebo noted that stakeholders must work towards guaranteeing that our Artificial Intelligence systems respect individual privacy, maintain equitable standards for all, remain transparent in their operations, and elicit trust.

“The use of Artificial Intelligence in payment solutions and within the broader financial inclusion industry must comply with existing regulatory frameworks such as; Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) Consumer Protection Framework; Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) and National Information Technology Development Agency’s Data Protection Regulation (NDPR),” she cautioned.

SANEF, whose mission is to deepen financial inclusion through partnerships and collaborations, is an initiative of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), supported by the Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement Systems (NIBSS) and Licensed Super-Agents, and was incorporated in 2019.

SANEF serves as an enabler in the Financial Inclusion ecosystem in Nigeria, collaborating with various Stakeholders to expand the frontiers of Financial Inclusion which includes Agent Expansion, Financial Literacy, Public Enlightenment, Policy Advocacy and Technological Solutions for Products and Services to increase Agent Business viability and Agent Network sustainability.

Mrs. Roberta Edu Oyedokun, CEO of Moppet Baby Food Firm in Lagos, has shared an inspiring personal revelation about career transformation and self-development. While drafting a professional profile recently, she realized how much her career had evolved in just four years—a testament, she says, to the power of consistency and resilience.

In her reflection, Mrs. Oyedokun highlighted her current achievements: driving Moppet Foods’ expansion into major retail chains, securing government-backed partnerships with Community Health Centers, and forging alliances with NGOs. She also serves as an Ambassador for the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme, advocating for family health access.

What struck her, however, was the absence of any mention of her previous decade-long experience in engineering, technology, media, and production. “Imagine if I didn’t have a profile before now,” she mused. “Yet, in my 30s, I built this resounding profile in just four years.”

Addressing those who might doubt such rapid transformation, she emphasized, “The problem is, we often think such change isn’t possible. But the truth is, you can change your life in four years. You can reshape your profile. You can become whoever you want, whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or 50s.”

Her advice? “Do the hard things, show up consistently, and refuse to let challenges break you.”

Mrs. Oyedokun’s story serves as a powerful reminder that reinvention is possible at any stage—with determination and relentless effort.

*—Reported by Anthony Emeka Nwosu

In the heart of Nigeria’s commercial capital, Ikeja, a technology-driven force is steadily redefining how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operate, communicate, and scale. Menxtt Technology NG, a proudly Nigerian-owned tech solutions provider, is delivering cutting-edge yet affordable IT support, digital marketing, website deployment, and device repair services to SMEs across the country.

From building strategic web assets that attract clients, to managing digital footprints on social platforms, to extending the life cycle of smartphones and laptops through expert repair services, Menxtt Technology NG is proving that cost-effective tech solutions don’t have to compromise on quality.

Bridging the Digital Divide for SMEs

The operational challenges faced by SMEs in Nigeria are enormous—high costs of tech deployment, inadequate in-house IT staff, unreliable online visibility, and recurring device breakdowns. These challenges often stunt business growth, limit outreach, and reduce profitability. But Menxtt Technology NG is changing that narrative.

The company offers a one-stop solution by bundling services such as:

  • Website and Landing Page Creation – Fast, mobile-responsive, and tailored websites that convert visitors into loyal customers.

  • Web Deployment & Management – Full-service hosting, maintenance, and backend support for maximum uptime and business continuity.

  • Social Media Management – Content curation, branding, and community engagement strategies to build and sustain digital audiences.

  • Virtual Business Presence & Brand Identity – Custom branding packages that give SMEs a professional look and feel across digital touchpoints.

  • Smartphone & Laptop Repairs – On-demand, reliable device repairs using genuine parts, saving SMEs the cost of constant replacements.

Mrs. Stepon Nwosu: “We’re not just a service provider. We are SME enablers.”

“At Menxtt Technology NG, we are deeply aware of the burdens Nigerian entrepreneurs carry—from battling infrastructural gaps to trying to keep up with digital trends,” said Mrs. Stepon Nwosu, Principal Partner of Menxtt Technology NG.

“Our mission is simple but powerful: to help SMEs stay visible, functional, and competitive. We don’t just fix devices or build websites; we empower businesses to operate smarter, reach more customers, and save significantly on their operating costs. Every service we offer is built with the small business owner in mind—from the tailoring shop in Aba to the online beauty brand in Lekki. We are their tech backbone.”

Delivering Real Results, Nationwide

Across states and sectors, testimonials continue to pour in. Clients appreciate not only the affordability of Menxtt’s services but also the trust, speed, and long-term impact. One Lagos-based logistics startup reported a 300% increase in online inquiries just three weeks after launching a website and social campaign managed by Menxtt.

The repair service arm of the company, which focuses on pre-owned high-end smartphones and laptops, has also allowed businesses to extend the use of their digital tools, instead of purchasing expensive replacements—saving hundreds of thousands of naira annually.

Digital Empowerment for the Future

With eyes set on the future, Menxtt Technology NG is actively expanding its footprint across major Nigerian cities and working to launch SME-focused digital toolkits and DIY branding kits.

“We want to make tech adoption as easy as breathing,” added Mrs. Nwosu. “We’re creating systems where an SME owner can reach out, state their challenge, and get a full digital transformation plan that fits their budget and vision. That’s the future—and we’re building it today.”

Contact MENXTT TECHNOLOGY NG

For SMEs, entrepreneurs, NGOs, and retail outfits looking for dependable, affordable, and impactful IT solutions, Menxtt Technology NG is the trusted partner for success.

📞 Phone: 08028931940
📧 Email: menxtt.ng@gmail.com
📍 Location: Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
🌐 Instagram & Facebook: @menxtt_ng


Menxtt Technology NG – Affordable Innovation, Real Impact.

Joined by Qlik’s AI Council, enterprise leaders to speak at Qlik Connect 2025 on making AI practical, measurable, and real

 

 

Orlando, FL, April 23, 2025 – Qlik®a global leader in data integration, data quality, analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI), has announced a new slate of featured speakers for its flagship customer event, Qlik Connect® 2025, taking place May 13–15 in Orlando, Florida. New to the mainstage lineup are leaders from Lenovo, Visa, and Reworld, each set to share how their organisations are putting data and AI to work — not in theory, but in practice, at scale.

 

 

Joining them at the event will be the four members of Qlik’s AI Council, a global group of independent AI experts who are shaping governance, policy, and innovation across sectors. Together, this mix of enterprise practitioners and respected AI authorities will frame a grounded view of what’s working now in AI — and what isn’t.

 

 

“Our shift from a product-driven to an experience-driven approach means prioritising the satisfaction of our partners, sellers and customers and this isn’t possible without trusted data and applied AI,” said Dilip Bhatia, Vice President and Chief Experience Officer at Lenovo. “At Lenovo, we’re embedding intelligence into the moments that matter along the customer journey — from purchase and design to delivery and support — and we’re doing it at scale. At Qlik Connect, we’re looking forward to sharing how Lenovo is elevating experience by turning insight into action in real time.”  

 

 

“You can’t optimise what you can’t see — and that was our reality before we had a unified, trustworthy data foundation,” said Charles Link, Senior Director of Data and Analytics at Reworld. “Now, we’re not just tracking sustainability outcomes — we’re proactively improving them. At Qlik Connect, I’ll share how getting the data right enabled us to put AI to work where it actually counts: in operations, in investment decisions, and in environmental impact.”

 

 

“There’s no shortage of AI noise in the market. What’s missing is a sharper focus on how AI is actually being implemented — and where it’s delivering measurable results. Qlik Connect will cut through the noise and showcase the organizations leveraging AI to turn data into better decisions, at scale, in production,” said Mike Capone, CEO of Qlik.

 

 

Real-World Stories from Global Enterprises

 

 

·      Lenovo – Bhatia leads Lenovo’s global strategy across customer, user, and digital experience. His team will share how data and AI are embedded across the business to drive personalisation, accessibility, and responsiveness—moving Lenovo from a product-centric company to one driven by real-time insights and human-centred design at scale.

 

 

·      Visa – Tim Wong, Senior Data Analyst in Visa’s Cybersecurity team, focuses on applying analytics, predictive modelling, and visualisation to keep one of the world’s largest payment networks secure and trusted. He’ll offer a practitioner’s view into using data to address high-impact challenges in real time within mission-critical, global environments.

 

 

·      Reworld – Charles Link, Senior Director of Data and Analytics, leads Reworld’s enterprise data strategy, building an AI-ready foundation across 90+ facilities. With decades of cross-industry experience, he’ll discuss how data infrastructure modernisation enables better environmental outcomes, operational efficiency, and scalability—turning sustainability from an aspiration into a measurable, data-fuelled advantage.

 

 

Also featured at Qlik Connect will be Qlik’s AI Council, each bringing a distinct lens to the risks and opportunities of AI:

 

 

·      Dr. Michael Bronstein — DeepMind Professor of AI at Oxford and a serial tech entrepreneur, Bronstein’s work in graph machine learning and explainable AI will appeal to technical leaders seeking rigour behind the hype.

 

 

·      Dr. Rumman Chowdhury — A recognised leader in ethical AI, Chowdhury brings deep experience in algorithmic accountability, fairness, and transparency — critical areas as companies scale AI use in production.

 

 

·      Kelly Forbes — Co-founder of the AI Asia Pacific Institute, Forbes is focused on global AI governance and public-private cooperation. Her perspective on cross-border regulatory frameworks is especially timely.

 

 

·      Nina Schick — A world-leading authority on generative AI, Schick will explore how enterprises can navigate the political and societal implications of AI responsibly.

 

 

Together, these voices will help elevate the conversation — not just on what AI can do, but what it should do, and what it takes to make it work in the real world.

 

 

Qlik Connect 2025 will bring together thousands of data, analytics, and technology leaders from around the world. The event will feature hands-on sessions, deep-dive tracks including AI Innovations and Real-Time Data Enterprise, and direct access to experts shaping the future of business intelligence and enterprise AI.

 

 

To register or learn more, visit qlikconnect.com

The Abia State Government today unveiled significant upgrades to Port Harcourt Road in Aba, capped by the completion of the new Number One Roundabout constructed by Julius Berger Nigeria PLC. The project forms part of Governor Dr. Alex Otti’s broader modernization drive for the state’s commercial hub.

Officials from the Ministry of Works and Transport explained that the roundabout incorporates contemporary engineering design, durable paving materials and landscaped green spaces to improve traffic flow and enhance civic aesthetics. Although some residents have compared its design unfavorably to more elaborate international models shared on social media, authorities maintain that the structure’s unique features reflect local context and long‑term maintenance needs.

Port Harcourt Road, long plagued by potholes and poor drainage, underwent a comprehensive rehabilitation under the Otti administration beginning in late 2024. Over three kilometres of carriageway have been reconstructed, with new drainage systems, pedestrian sidewalks and street lighting installed along the corridor.

“The Number One Roundabout is more than just a traffic junction; it’s a statement of Aba’s emergence into the 21st century,” said the Commissioner for Works. He added that final touches—including accent lighting, indigenous trees and public‑art installations—will be in place ahead of the official commissioning ceremony scheduled for May 29, 2025.

Local traders and motorists have welcomed the improved road surface and safer driving conditions, though some community members expressed hope that future beautification projects might incorporate more elaborate fountains or sculptural elements.

Once formally commissioned next week, the upgraded Port Harcourt Road and its centerpiece roundabout are expected to bolster Aba’s commercial activities, reduce travel times and underscore the Otti administration’s commitment to sustainable urban development.