Payments Forum Nigeria (PAFON 2.0) Set to Address Customer Experience in AI-Driven Payment Ecosystem

Payments Forum Nigeria (PAFON 2.0) Set to Address Customer Experience in AI-Driven Payment Ecosystem

The highly anticipated Payments Forum Nigeria (PAFON) 2.0 is set to convene industry leaders, policymakers, fintech innovators, and key stakeholders to discuss the evolving landscape of digital payments, with a special focus on cybersecurity, trust, and regulatory compliance in the AI era.

PAFON 2.0, scheduled to take place on April 10, 2025 at the Function Room 1, Oriental Hotel, Lagos, builds on the success of its inaugural edition, solidifying its position as Nigeria’s premier platform for thought leadership in payments innovation.

This year’s theme, “Bridging the Customer Experience Gap for Financial Inclusion Using AI”, underscores the urgent need to safeguard digital transactions against emerging threats while ensuring seamless financial inclusion and innovation.

EBEHIJIE J. MOMOH, Chief Executive Officer, AfriGOPay Financial Services Limited, has been scheduled to present the keynote.

Other Speakers | participants are drawn the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN); e-Banking Heads; Chief Compliance Officers of banks in Nigeria; Chief Internal Auditors of banks in Nigeria; Office of The National Security Adviser; Switching companies; the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission; Licensed Mobile Payment Operators; Electronic Payments Providers; Information Security Experts; Consumer Protection; Financial Policy and Regulation; Information Technology; Legal Services; Banking Supervision; Corporate Communication; Shared Services Office; Blockchain Security Experts, etc.

Key highlights of PAFON 2.0 include:

  • Expert-led panel discussions on AI-driven fraud detection, secure authentication, and regulatory strategies for digital payments
  • Fireside chats with top executives from the banking, fintech, and regulatory sectors
  • Showcase of cutting-edge payment security solutions leveraging AI, blockchain, and biometrics
  • Networking opportunities with industry pioneers shaping the future of Nigeria’s payment ecosystem

Speaking on the upcoming event, Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, co-convener of PAFON, stated:

“As Nigeria accelerates its transition to a digital economy, ensuring trust and security in payments has never been more critical. PAFON 2.0 will serve as a pivotal platform to address these challenges and unlock opportunities for a more resilient and inclusive financial system.”

PAFON 2.0 is open to payment service providers, fintech firms, banks, regulatory bodies, cybersecurity experts, and all stakeholders invested in the future of digital transactions in Nigeria.

For more information and participation details, visit or contact [Insert Contact Information].

About PAFON

Payments Forum Nigeria (PAFON) is an annual platform dedicated to fostering dialogue, collaboration, and innovation in the country’s payment industry. By bringing together key stakeholders, PAFON seeks to drive advancements in security, financial inclusion, and technology adoption across the ecosystem.

Register to Attend: https://shorturl.at/IPOjA

Anambra South Concerned Citizens Laud INEC and National Assembly for Swift Action on Senatorial Vacancy

Anambra South Concerned Citizens Laud INEC and National Assembly for Swift Action on Senatorial Vacancy

 

 

The Anambra South Concerned Citizens, led by the visionary leadership of Engr. Ikechukwu Nwosu, Convener of the Anambra South Concerned Citizens Movement, has extended heartfelt appreciation to the Nigerian National Assembly and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their commendable and expeditious response in addressing the political void created by the untimely demise of Senator Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah.

Senator Ubah, a highly respected and influential representative of Anambra South Senatorial Zone, tragically passed away on July 27, 2024, leaving a significant gap in the legislative representation of the zone. For over 180 days, the people of Anambra South were left without a voice in the Nigerian Senate, a situation that caused deep concern and uncertainty among constituents, stakeholders, and political analysts.

In a bold move to address the growing unease, the Anambra South Concerned Citizens took decisive action by formally petitioning INEC and the National Assembly. They fervently called for immediate measures to be taken in order to organize a by-election that would ensure the continuation of legislative advocacy and governance for the people of the senatorial district. Their passionate plea was met with positive and proactive engagement by the relevant authorities, culminating in the much-anticipated approval of a by-election.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of the movement, Engr. Ikechukwu Nwosu hailed the promptness and commitment demonstrated by the federal institutions. He stated, “This marks a turning point in our democratic journey. For over 180 days, the people of Anambra South have yearned for a voice in the Senate, and today, we celebrate a government that listens and acts. The swift response by the National Assembly and INEC shows that our democracy is alive and well. We extend our deepest gratitude for their dedication to upholding the rights of the people.”

Engr. Nwosu further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to democratic principles and good governance, emphasizing that his leadership has been instrumental in ensuring due process is followed. “This is not just about filling a vacant seat; it is about reaffirming our faith in democracy. We are immensely grateful to the President for his leadership and dedication to the rule of law. His commitment to fairness and justice is evident in this process, and we acknowledge his efforts with deep appreciation.”

In addition, he lauded the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, for his responsiveness and statesmanship in expediting the legislative processes that facilitated this by-election. “We sincerely appreciate the efforts of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, whose leadership has ensured that this matter received the urgency it deserved. His role in upholding the democratic process and safeguarding the interests of the Nigerian people cannot be overstated. We thank him wholeheartedly.”

The Anambra South Senatorial District is one of the three senatorial zones in Anambra State, comprising seven local government areas: Aguata (300 polling units), Ekwusigo (175 polling units), Ihiala (278 polling units), Nnewi North (198 polling units), Nnewi South (295 polling units), Orumba North (231 polling units), and Orumba South (192 polling units), amounting to a total of 1,669 polling units. The district spans an extensive 1,320 square kilometers, forming a crucial political and economic hub within Anambra State’s total area of 4,887 square kilometers.

With the assurance from INEC that the by-election will be conducted promptly, the people of Anambra South can now look forward to renewed political representation and a stronger voice in national governance. This development serves as a testament to the resilience of democracy and the commitment of both the electorate and government institutions to ensuring that no constituency is left behind in the legislative process.

The Anambra South Concerned Citizens remain optimistic and appreciative, reaffirming their commitment to actively participate in the electoral process and support credible leadership that will champion the interests of their people in the Senate. Their gratitude extends to all individuals and institutions who have played a role in making this by-election a reality, ensuring that the democratic ideals of representation, governance, and accountability continue to thrive in Nigeria.

 

EFTCorp recognised for ‘Outstanding Contribution to Fintech Enablement’ at the 15th Africa Bank 4.0 Summit in Ghana

EFTCorp recognised for ‘Outstanding Contribution to Fintech Enablement’ at the 15th Africa Bank 4.0 Summit in Ghana

 

 

EFT Corporation (EFTCorp), a trusted partner in modern banking, was honoured with the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Fintech Enablement’ award at the 15th Africa Bank 4.0 Summit – West Africa, held in Accra, Ghana, on 26-27 February 2025. The award recognises EFTCorp’s role in advancing fintech innovation and expanding financial inclusion across Africa by providing cutting-edge payment solutions and infrastructure for banks and financial institutions.

 

As a lead sponsor of the summit, EFTCorp actively contributed to key discussions around West Africa’s digital banking evolution, tackling issues such as interoperability, open banking, and the role of fintech in bridging financial gaps. The company’s commitment to innovation was highlighted in various panel discussions and presentations, including:

 

  • Carlin Wicomb, Chief Sales Officer, who delivered a presentation on Empowering Banks through Fintech Collaboration: Unlocking Innovation in Payments and Merchant Services.
  • Catherine Korsten, Chief Commercial Officer, who moderated a panel on Securing the Future: Biometric Authentication in West Africa’s Digital Transformation.
  • Farai Tigere, Managing Director for Zimbabwe, who joined a panel on Beyond Mobile Money: Building a Broader Financial Inclusion Strategy for West Africa.
  • Carlyn Commey, Regional Head of Business Development for West Africa, who contributed to a discussion on Supercharging West Africa’s Economy: The Real-Time Payments Revolution.

 

EFTCorp’s commitment to West Africa’s digital finance evolution

Receiving the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Fintech Enablement’ award reinforces EFTCorp’s role in West Africa’s payments modernisation journey. The region has seen a surge in neobanks, mobile money adoption, and real-time payments – the company’s solutions have been instrumental in helping financial institutions modernise their operations while ensuring secure, efficient, and scalable payment infrastructure.

 

Carlyn Commey, who represented EFTCorp at the awards ceremony, emphasised the company’s dedication to financial inclusion in the region. “This recognition is a testament to our commitment to supporting banks and fintechs with innovative, tailored solutions that drive financial access and economic growth. West Africa is a priority growth region for EFTCorp, and we are excited to continue working alongside local partners to build a more inclusive and resilient financial ecosystem.”

 

Expanding EFTCorp’s footprint in emerging markets

With West Africa’s fintech market projected to grow significantly in the coming years, EFTCorp is expanding its presence to support banks and fintechs with modern payment solutions. The rise of regulatory sandboxes, digital identity initiatives, and mobile-first financial services across the region presents vast opportunities for financial institutions to scale. Through its expertise in API-driven payment processing, mobile money interoperability, and secure transaction platforms, EFTCorp is solidifying its role as a leading fintech enabler on the continent.

 

“Our goal is to bridge the gap between legacy banking infrastructure and next-generation payment solutions,” says Commey. “By working closely with banks, regulators, and fintechs, we ensure that our technology meets market needs while driving seamless financial services for businesses and consumers alike.”

 

As West Africa accelerates its digital banking transformation, EFTCorp remains a key player in shaping the region’s payments landscape.

 

African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 to Showcase Africa’s Growing Energy Momentum, with $43 Billion in Capital Expenditure (CapEx) Projected for 2025

African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 to Showcase Africa’s Growing Energy Momentum, with $43 Billion in Capital Expenditure (CapEx) Projected for 2025

Africa’s energy sector continues to show resilience and dynamism, with capital expenditure (CapEx) on oil and gas projects remaining a key driver of growth. According to the African Energy Chamber’s (EnergyChamber.org/) State of African Energy 2025 Outlook Report, investment remains strong in 2025, with total CapEx estimated at $43 billion, while long-term projections indicate an increase to $54 billion by 2030 – reinforcing Africa’s position as a critical player in the global energy market. As African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 prepares to convene key industry players in Cape Town, these investment trends will be central to discussions on accelerating project development, securing capital and ensuring Africa’s energy industry remains competitive on the global stage.

 

According to the report, West and North Africa continue to lead CapEx spending, with West Africa contributing over 50% of the continent’s total expenditure from 2023 through the decade. Established oil producers such as Nigeria and Angola remain dominant, while emerging players like Mauritania and Senegal are attracting increasing investment. The continent’s rich liquid hydrocarbon resources continue to draw the majority of capital, accounting for over 60% of total hydrocarbon investment through 2030. However, natural gas is gaining momentum, with its share of CapEx rising to over 40% by the end of the decade. This shift underscores a major theme of AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, positioning Africa as a competitive global gas hub while reaffirming oil’s role as a pillar of economic growth and energy security.

Looking ahead, onshore projects are expected to attract the majority of investment, accounting for 56% of total CapEx by 2030, driven by lower unit costs and increasing interest in onshore natural gas monetization. This trend is reflected in drilling activity, with onshore drilling remaining dominant – comprising 80% of the 1,060 wells drilled in 2024 – while offshore rig demand continues to rise, reaching an estimated 46 rig years in 2025. At AEW: Invest in African Energies, industry leaders will explore how these shifting investment patterns can accelerate energy security and infrastructure expansion across the continent.

Africa’s energy sector is entering a new era of growth, driven by strategic investments and a commitment to monetizing our vast resources

Exploration is also on the upswing, with over 150 wells completed in 2024 and heightened activity in southern Africa, particularly in Namibia’s Orange Basin. Africa is emerging as a leader in global high-impact drilling, with exploration spending surpassing $6 billion in 2024, largely driven by major discoveries in Namibia and continued investment in North and West Africa. This momentum is expected to continue as multiple licensing rounds are planned across the continent, with Nigeria, Angola, the Republic of Congo, Libya, Algeria, Tanzania and Liberia among the countries opening new blocks for development. With exploration serving as a key catalyst for new investments, AEW 2025 will serve as a critical platform for showcasing frontier opportunities and securing new project financing.

Africa’s mergers and acquisitions (M&A) landscape remains dynamic, following a significant rebound in 2024 and driven by global energy majors rationalizing their portfolios. Regional players and national oil companies (NOCs) are taking on a more prominent role, acquiring assets from majors and expanding their footprint in key markets like Angola and Nigeria. West Africa continues to dominate M&A activity in terms of deal value, followed closely by North Africa. Meanwhile, Middle Eastern and Asian NOCs are ramping up their investment in African assets, further diversifying the investor landscape. As consolidation reshapes Africa’s energy sector, AEW 2025 will provide a vital forum for dealmaking, fostering new partnerships and strengthening the role of African players in the global market.

As the African energy sector evolves, the upcoming AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 will serve as a critical platform to drive investment discussions and facilitate deal-making. With global energy markets shifting and Africa’s vast oil and gas resources remaining underutilized, the continent presents a compelling case for increased foreign direct investment. AEW 2025 will provide the platform for stakeholders to explore opportunities, forge new partnerships and position Africa at the forefront of the global energy transition.

“Africa’s energy sector is entering a new era of growth, driven by strategic investments and a commitment to monetizing our vast resources. With $43 billion in capital expenditure projected for 2025, the continent is proving that it is open for business and ready to compete on the global stage. AEW 2025 will be the premier platform to drive these investment discussions and ensure Africa’s energy industry remains resilient and dynamic,” said Ore Onagbesan, Program Director for the African Energy Chamber.

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) together with African First Ladies Africa mark International Women’s Day 2025 through their Impactful Development Programs

Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) together with African First Ladies Africa mark International Women’s Day 2025 through their Impactful Development Programs

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany together with First Ladies of Africa who are also their Ambassadors, Ministries of Health, Education, Communication & Gender, mark ‘International Women’s Day 2025’, through their impactful development programs, continuing their 13-year legacy of empowering women and girls.

 

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and One of the Most Influential African Women for Six Consecutive Years (2019 – 2024) expressed, “Happy International Women’s Day to all the remarkable women and girls around the world!

Empowering girls and women is at the core of all our initiatives and programs at Merck Foundation. I recognize the immense potential of women to thrive, succeed and excel in any domain they choose, yet they often lack the conducive environment to fully realize their capabilities, especially in underserved communities.

Therefore, together with our Ambassadors, The First Ladies of Africa, we mark International Women’s Day every day since the last 13 years through our development programs and initiatives such as ‘More Than a Mother’, ‘Merck Foundation Capacity Advancement’, ‘Educating Linda’, and ‘STEM Program’.”

“Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” is a strong movement that aims to empower infertile and childless women through access to information, education and change of mindset.

“I am thrilled to share that out of the 2,230 scholarships awarded across 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties, 1046 scholarships, that is nearly 50% have been granted to female medical graduates, empowering them to become future healthcare experts and leaders.

I am especially proud that we have awarded over 680 scholarships to young doctors, dedicated to advancing women’s health by strengthening reproductive, sexual health, and fertility care capacity.”

Merck Foundation CEO strongly believes that Education is one of the most critical areas of women empowerment.

“I am happy to share that through our “Educating Linda” Program, together with my dear sisters, our Ambassadors, we are contributing to the future of over 700 girls by providing scholarships to continue their education and also providing essential school items for thousands of schoolgirls in many African countries such as Botswana, Burundi, Malawi, The Gambia, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Namibia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cabo Verde and more.

Moreover, we have benefitted thousands of girls through our awareness campaign through many initiates like the release of inspiring songs, children’s storybooks, animation films, TV Program and awards for best media, song, film & fashion designs, all aimed at promoting girl education today for women’s empowerment tomorrow”, emphasized Senator Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation also actively empowers women in Science and Technology through its STEM Program and the annual Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards that recognize and celebrate the Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers, fostering research excellence.

“Our goal is to empower women and young African researchers, enhance their research capacity, and promote their contributions to STEM,” emphasized Dr. Kelej.

Bella Disu Advocates for Women’s Empowerment and Self-Advocacy on International Women’s Day

Bella Disu Advocates for Women’s Empowerment and Self-Advocacy on International Women’s Day

 

Bella Disu, a distinguished senior executive at Globacom, Cobblestone, Abumet, and Julius Berger, has called on women to reclaim their space and prioritize their growth in all aspects of life. Speaking on the occasion of International Women’s Day, Disu, a passionate advocate for leadership, innovation, and lasting change, shared her personal experiences and insights on the challenges women face in professional and personal spaces.

In a powerful statement, Disu recounted instances where she walked into rooms and was met with the greeting, “Good morning, sirs,” despite her presence. “It doesn’t happen all the time, but when it does, it’s a reminder that women aren’t just overlooked; sometimes, we’re invisible,” she said. Her remarks highlighted the subtle yet pervasive biases that women often encounter, even in high-level professional settings.

The Importance of Self-Advocacy

Disu emphasized the importance of women advocating for themselves in such situations. “Advocating for ourselves doesn’t mean shouting to be heard,” she explained. “It can be as simple as saying, ‘Actually, I wasn’t addressed,’ or ‘I’d like to ensure my perspective is considered.’ Firm. Polite. Unapologetic. Then we move on, no over-explaining, no dwelling on it.”

Her message underscored the need for women to assert their presence and contributions confidently, without fear of being perceived as aggressive or confrontational. Disu’s approach reflects a broader call for women to reclaim their space in every part of their lives, from boardrooms to communities.

Reclaiming Space and Prioritizing Growth

Disu also addressed the societal expectations that often pressure women to prioritize others at the expense of their own growth. “Women have spent years pouring into others: families, careers, communities, often at the cost of themselves,” she noted. However, she expressed optimism about the growing recognition among women that prioritizing their own development is not selfish but necessary.

“Now, more women are recognizing that prioritizing their own growth isn’t selfish; it’s necessary,” she said. “I love seeing women stand up and say, ‘It’s my time.’ Owning their ambitions. Stepping into leadership. Speaking with authority. Taking the opportunities they once hesitated to claim.”

A Call to Action on International Women’s Day

Disu’s statement resonated with the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, which encourages women to take action not just for others but for themselves as well. She urged women to embrace their ambitions, step into leadership roles, and seize opportunities with confidence. “This year’s International Women’s Day reminds us to take action—not just for others, but for ourselves too,” she said.

A Trailblazer in Leadership

As a prominent figure in Nigeria’s corporate landscape, Bella Disu has consistently championed the cause of women’s empowerment. Her roles at Globacom, Cobblestone, Abumet, and Julius Berger have positioned her as a leader who drives impact and fosters innovation. Her advocacy for women’s leadership and self-advocacy aligns with her broader mission to create lasting change in society.

Conclusion

Bella Disu’s message on International Women’s Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of visibility, self-advocacy, and personal growth for women. Her call to action encourages women to step into their power, own their ambitions, and reclaim their space in every sphere of life. As the world celebrates the achievements of women, Disu’s words inspire a renewed commitment to gender equality and empowerment.

“Happy International Women’s Day!” she concluded, leaving her audience with a sense of purpose and determination to continue breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes.

About Bella Disu:
Bella Disu is a senior executive at Globacom, Cobblestone, Abumet, and Julius Berger. Known for her leadership and innovation, she is passionate about driving impact and creating lasting change in the corporate world and beyond. A strong advocate for women’s empowerment, Disu continues to inspire women to step into leadership roles and own their ambitions.

FG Reinforces Commitment to Maritime Growth to Boost Coastal Trade, Job Creation

FG Reinforces Commitment to Maritime Growth to Boost Coastal Trade, Job Creation

In a significant move to revitalize Nigeria’s maritime industry, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to unlocking the sector’s full potential.

The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, provided this assurance during a weekend meeting in Abuja with the Director-General and CEO of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola. The discussions centered on fast-tracking the deployment of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF), a crucial initiative aimed at supporting the growth of indigenous shipping companies.

The meeting focused on unlocking financing for local shipowners, reinforcing the government’s commitment to expanding coastal trade, creating jobs, and strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global shipping industry. Key stakeholders emphasized the need for efficient utilization of the funds to ensure the CVFF delivers maximum impact and positions Nigeria’s maritime industry for long-term growth.

The renewed commitment to maritime sector development is expected to generate a positive ripple effect across the economy, driving expansion, creating employment opportunities, and solidifying Nigeria’s status as a leading maritime hub in Africa.

 

NDPC Strengthens Judicial Sector with Data Protection Workshop

NDPC Strengthens Judicial Sector with Data Protection Workshop

In a significant step towards bolstering data protection awareness in Nigeria’s judicial sector, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has conducted a capacity-building workshop for Fellows and ICT staff of the National Judicial Institute (NJI). The workshop follows a recent high-level visit by NDPC officials to the NJI, reinforcing the commitment to enhancing data privacy and security within the judiciary.

Speaking at the opening session, the National Commissioner and CEO of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, expressed satisfaction with the swift implementation of this collaborative initiative. He underscored the crucial role of data protection and privacy for judicial officers and ICT professionals, emphasizing that safeguarding data is key to upholding the rights of Nigerian citizens.May be an image of 3 people and dais

Dr. Olatunji highlighted the workshop as a testament to Honourable Justice Salisu Garba Abdullahi’s dedication to equipping NJI Fellows with the necessary knowledge to navigate the evolving data protection landscape. He noted that Nigeria’s data protection ecosystem is gaining global recognition, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda aimed at fostering foreign investment and economic growth.

The Administrator of the NJI, Honourable Justice Salisu Garba Abdullahi, commended the NDPC for its proactive efforts in educating judicial officers and ICT personnel on data privacy and security. In his welcome remarks, he acknowledged the increasing global emphasis on data protection, recognizing data as a critical asset in modern governance. He praised the partnership between the NJI and the NDPC, emphasizing the importance of instilling a culture of privacy and compliance within the judicial system.

The workshop served as an introduction to the fundamentals of data protection and privacy, with experts urging participants to apply their newfound knowledge in their daily operations. As data security continues to be a global priority, initiatives like this further cement Nigeria’s commitment to international best practices in data governance.

Omoni Oboli’s “Love In Every Word”: A Misrepresentation of Igbo Men and Their Culture

Omoni Oboli’s “Love In Every Word”: A Misrepresentation of Igbo Men and Their Culture

Opinion Post by Chukwuma Ndioguluo:

Omoni Oboli, a talented movie producer from Edo State, recently released a film titled “Love In Every Word, which attempts to portray the romantic dynamics of an Igbo man. However, the movie falls short of accurately representing Igbo culture and the traditional values of an Igbo man, particularly the concept of an *Odogwu* (a respected, wealthy, and influential man in Igbo society).

In the movie, the Igbo male lead, played by Uzor Arukwe, closes his bank account to win the heart of a woman he loves. This portrayal is not only inaccurate but also a misrepresentation of how an *Odogwu* from Igboland approaches love and relationships. In Igbo culture, an *Odogwu* is a man of substance, wisdom, and pride. He does not diminish himself or his wealth to win a woman’s affection. Instead, he often disguises his true status, presenting himself as a modest individual—perhaps a single shop owner in Onitsha Main Market—while secretly owning multiple businesses.

The intention behind this approach is to test the woman’s character and ensure she is not motivated by his wealth. An *Odogwu* seeks an *Odozi Aku*—a woman who is wise, resourceful, and capable of managing his wealth and household. Only when she proves her genuine love and loyalty does he reveal his true status and introduce her to his family as the woman he intends to marry. This is the Igbo way, and it reflects the depth of cultural values that prioritize character over materialism.

It is disappointing to see how Omoni Oboli imported a Benin man’s lifestyle into a movie that was supposed to showcase Igbo culture. The portrayal of the Igbo man in *Love In Every Word* is far from the reality of how an *Odogwu* loves and respects his woman. The only plausible explanation for this misrepresentation is that the character is an Igbo man who has lived outside Igboland for too long and has been influenced by the cultures of his host community.

Another glaring inaccuracy in the movie is the use of the term *“Onye Nwem”* (meaning “the one who owns me”) by the male lead to address his love interest. This is a complete distortion of Igbo cultural norms. In Igbo tradition, *“Onye Nwem”* is a term of endearment used by a wife to address her husband, not the other way around. It signifies the man’s role as the head of the household and the woman’s respect and submission to him. When a wife calls her husband *“Onye Nwem”* and shows him respect, he is compelled to love her genuinely and entrust her with the management of his wealth, earning her the title *“Ori Aku”* (the one who enjoys his wealth).

The fact that Uzor Arukwe, an Igbo actor, addressed Bambam, a Yoruba actress, as *“Onye Nwem”* in the movie is a clear indication that Omoni Oboli knew exactly what she was doing. If Bambam were an Igbo actress, I believe she would have rejected such a term, no matter how sweet it sounded, because it goes against the cultural norms passed down by our foremothers.

Omoni Oboli may have had good intentions with *Love In Every Word*, but the execution missed the mark. The movie fails to tell the true story of how Igbo men love their women and instead presents a distorted version of Igbo culture. I hope that an Igbo movie producer will one day rewrite and reproduce this story, showcasing the authentic and dignified way an *Odogwu* from Igboland loves and respects his woman.

Igbo culture is rich, profound, and deeply rooted in values that deserve accurate representation in Nollywood. Let us tell our stories the right way, preserving the integrity of our traditions for future generations.

#ChukwumaNdioguluOfficial
#Chucappella
#OmoniOboli
#BamBam
#UzorArukwe
#NollywoodMovies
#MovieReview
#IgboCulture
#Odogwu
#OdoziAku
#OriAku

AI Readiness Lags Ambitions: Survey Highlights Key Gaps Threatening Generative AI Success

AI Readiness Lags Ambitions: Survey Highlights Key Gaps Threatening Generative AI Success

 

Only 12% of organisations feel ready for agentic AI workflows, despite significant investments, underscoring critical data and infrastructure challenges

Philadelphia, March 5, 2025 – Qlik®, a global leader in data integration, data quality, analytics and artificial intelligence, today announced findings from an IDC survey exploring the challenges and opportunities in adopting advanced AI technologies. The study highlights a significant gap between ambition and execution: while 89% of organisations have revamped data strategies to embrace Generative AI, only 26% have deployed solutions at scale. These results underscore the urgent need for improved data governance, scalable infrastructure and analytics readiness to fully unlock AI’s transformative potential.

The findings, published in an IDC InfoBrief sponsored by Qlik, arrive as businesses worldwide race to embed AI into workflows, with AI projected to contribute $19.9 trillion to the global economy by 2030. Yet, readiness gaps threaten to derail progress.

Organisations are shifting their focus from AI models to building the foundational data ecosystems necessary for long-term success.

Stewart Bond, Research VP for Data Integration and Intelligence at IDC, emphasised:
“Generative AI has sparked widespread excitement, but our findings reveal a significant readiness gap. Businesses must address core challenges like data accuracy and governance to ensure AI workflows deliver sustainable, scalable value.”

Without addressing these foundational issues, businesses risk falling into an “AI scramble,” where ambition outpaces the ability to execute effectively, leaving potential value unrealised.

“AI’s potential hinges on how effectively organisations manage and integrate their AI value chain,” said James Fisher, Chief Strategy Officer at Qlik. “This research highlights a sharp divide between ambition and execution. Businesses that fail to build systems for delivering trusted, actionable insights will quickly fall behind competitors moving to scalable AI-driven innovation.”

The IDC survey uncovered several critical statistics illustrating the promise and challenges of AI adoption:

  • Agentic AI Adoption vs. Readiness: 80% of organisations are investing in Agentic AI workflows, yet only 12% feel confident their infrastructure can support autonomous decision-making.
  • “Data as a Product” Momentum: Organisations proficient in treating data as a product are 7x more likely to deploy Generative AI solutions at scale, emphasising the transformative potential of curated and accountable data ecosystems.
  • Embedded Analytics on the Rise: 94% of organisations are embedding or planning to embed analytics into enterprise applications, yet only 23% have achieved integration into most of their enterprise applications.
  • Generative AI’s Strategic Influence: 89% of organisations have revamped their data strategies in response to Generative AI, demonstrating its transformative impact.
  • AI Readiness Bottleneck: Despite 73% of organisations integrating Generative AI into analytics solutions, only 29% have fully deployed these capabilities.

These findings stress the urgency for companies to bridge the gap between ambition and execution, with a clear focus on governance, infrastructure, and leveraging data as a strategic asset.

The IDC survey findings highlight an urgent need for businesses to move beyond experimentation and address the foundational gaps in AI readiness. By focusing on governance, infrastructure, and data integration, organisations can realise the full potential of AI technologies and drive long-term success.

For the complete findings and insights from the IDC InfoBrief Priorities and Challenges of Data and Analytics in the Midst of AI Momentum sponsored by Qlik, please sign up for the webinar and view the full report here.

About Qlik Media Contact
Qlik converts complex data landscapes into actionable insights, driving strategic business outcomes. Serving over 40,000 global customers, our portfolio provides advanced, enterprise-grade AI/ML, data integration, and analytics. Our AI/ML tools, both practical and scalable, lead to better decisions, faster. We excel in data integration and governance, offering comprehensive solutions that work with diverse data sources. Intuitive analytics from Qlik uncover hidden patterns, empowering teams to address complex challenges and seize new opportunities. As strategic partners, our platform-agnostic technology and expertise make our customers more competitive.