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National Data Protection Commissioner and NAICOM Chief Discuss Data Privacy and Compliance

National Data Protection Commissioner and NAICOM Chief Discuss Data Privacy and Compliance

 

Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), recently led a courtesy visit to Mr. Olusegun Omosehin, Commissioner for Insurance/CEO of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), and the NAICOM team.

During the visit, Dr. Olatunji provided an insightful overview of the evolution of data protection in Nigeria, underscoring its critical importance. He highlighted the severe consequences of failing to protect personally identifiable information, including financial loss, harm to individuals, and in extreme cases, even death.May be an image of 8 people, dais and text

Dr. Olatunji commended NAICOM for its compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, noting its role as both a regulator and a major data controller in the insurance sector. He emphasized that NAICOM’s adherence to the data protection regulations sets a commendable example for the industry. He also stressed the importance of protecting personal identity in technological deployments and clarified that the data protection law applies to Nigerian data subjects globally.

To further support NAICOM’s efforts, Dr. Olatunji offered free training for NAICOM staff, aimed at enhancing their understanding of data protection and privacy practices within the insurance sector.

Mr. Omosehin expressed his gratitude for the valuable insights shared by Dr. Olatunji and acknowledged the significance of NAICOM’s role in leading compliance within the insurance industry. He accepted the training offer with appreciation.

In a collaborative move, the two Commissions agreed to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their partnership and enhance data protection practices across the sector.

#ChampioningPrivacyRights

Afreximbank to double intra-African trade financing to $40 billion by 2026

Afreximbank to double intra-African trade financing to $40 billion by 2026

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) plans to double its financing of intra-African trade from US$20 billion in 2021 to US$40 billion by 2026, Mr. Haytham ElMaayergi, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President, Global Trade Bank, has said.

 

Mr. ElMaayergi was addressing participants and guests in Abuja at the African Caucus Meeting of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), from August 1 – 3, 2024 where he represented Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank. Attended mainly by ministers of finance and Central Bank Governors from across Africa, the meeting had the theme “Facilitating Intra-African Trade: Catalyst for Sustainable Development in Africa”, and was  aimed at identifying key challenges facing Africa in achieving full integration and at engaging in strategic dialogues to engender sustainable solutions.

Mr. ElMaayergi said that Afreximbank had been a champion in facilitating intra-African trade since its founding and that it had committed US$1 billion to support the funding of the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund and a US$10-million grant to facilitate the establishment and operationalisation of that fund.

“The Bank is also partnering with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the African Union Commission (AUC) to ensure a successful implementation of the Pan-African Payments and Settlements System, the African Trade Gateway and the Afreximbank African Collaborative Transit Guarantee Scheme,” he continued.

Since inception in 1993, the Bank has approved over US$40 billion in support of Nigerian public and private sector entities

Mr. ElMaayergi noted that Nigeria was a key founding member of the Bank and had continued to play a critical role in its growth and success as its second largest shareholder, adding that Afreximbank had also played a critical role in supporting the country’s development agenda.

“Since inception in 1993, the Bank has approved over US$40 billion in support of Nigerian public and private sector entities,” he said, adding that it was currently implementing several of its flagship continental initiatives in the country, including the African Medical Centre of Excellence and the Afreximbank African Trade Centre.

Highlighting the existence of several other continental multilateral financial institutions created to help address the critical financing gaps in Africa and facilitate trade, with privileges and capitalisation granted them in order to enable them to fulfil their mandates, Mr. ElMaayergi indicated that it was to enhance their effectiveness that the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AAMFI) was launched, in collaboration with the AUC, on the margins of the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government of the AU in Addis Ababa in February.

He noted that the AU had recognized African multilateral financial institutions as crucial for strengthening the continental financial framework and advancing the AU’s Agenda 2063 and called on the meeting participants to reaffirm their commitment to those institutions. He urged the World Bank and the IMF to work with AAMFI in addressing the continent’s challenges.

“Most especially, we call on you to reaffirm that the special privileges and immunities that you have given these institutions, including the preferred creditor status, are essential for addressing the continent’s development needs, and to call upon all stakeholders to respect the treaty obligations you have made to these institutions,” added Mr. ElMaayergi.

The membership of AAMFI currently includes: Africa Finance Corporation; Afreximbank; Trade and Development Bank Group; African Reinsurance Corporation; African Trade and Investment Development Insurance; Shelter Afrique Development Bank; PTA Reinsurance Company; East African Development Bank; and African Solidarity Fund.

Professor Ekekwe Urges Nigeria to Retaliate Against UK Over Air Peace Heathrow Dispute

Professor Ekekwe Urges Nigeria to Retaliate Against UK Over Air Peace Heathrow Dispute

 

In a growing diplomatic row, Professor Ndubuisi Ekekwe, a noted entrepreneur and academic, has called on Nigeria to take decisive action against the United Kingdom over its refusal to grant Nigerian airline Air Peace access to Heathrow Airport. The dispute, which has been brewing for months, intensified when Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, lodged a formal complaint with the British government, accusing it of unfair treatment towards the Nigerian airline.

Ekekwe criticized Britain’s longstanding approach towards Nigeria, accusing the UK of hindering the country’s economic progress. “Britain has been playing this game for centuries: they come to you pretending they care about your economic advancement. But any day you show signs, they will throw obstacles,” Ekekwe stated. He pointed out the irony of the UK’s reluctance to allocate slots at Heathrow to Air Peace, despite Nigeria’s efforts to develop its private sector airlines.About Heathrow | Heathrow

The professor drew parallels with the assertive tactics of Nigeria’s former military leader, Sani Abacha, suggesting that a similar approach might be necessary today. He urged the Nigerian government to revoke all landing slots assigned to British Airways in Lagos if the UK continues to deny Air Peace access to Heathrow. “Festus Keyamo: Give them 7 days, and if they do not make the slots available, revoke all the slots in Lagos and Abuja!” Ekekwe exclaimed, expressing frustration over what he described as weak leadership in Nigeria.

The ongoing dispute between Nigeria and the UK over Air Peace’s access to Heathrow underscores the complexities of international aviation agreements and the challenges faced by emerging markets in asserting their interests on the global stage. As tensions continue to rise, the situation remains a critical test of Nigeria’s diplomatic resolve and its commitment to supporting its national carriers.

NASENI EVC/CEO Hosts Pi-CNG’s Ride-Share CNG Conversion Incentive Program

NASENI EVC/CEO Hosts Pi-CNG’s Ride-Share CNG Conversion Incentive Program

… Offers 50% discount to drivers who sign up on MY-CNG App.

The Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, at the weekend presided over the launch of the Presidential CNG Initiative’s (Pi-CNG) Conversion Incentive Program for rideshare sector, alongside the introduction of the MY-CNG App.

This landmark event took place at NASENI’s Compressed Natural Gas Engineering, Training, and Conversion facility in Utako, reflecting the Agency’s commitment to pioneering technology-driven solutions for Nigeria.

The event held at NASENI-Portland CNG Conversion Centre, Utako, Abuja, was graced by the Honourable Minister of State (Gas), Petroleum Resources, Hon. Ekperipe Ekpo, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, alongside Honorable Minister for Information and National Orientation, who was represented by the Director-General of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Dr Muhammed Bulama and other ecosystem players.

In his remarks, the EVC/CEO of NASENI, Khalil Halilu emphasized the significance of Pi-CNG in Nigeria’s gas revolution, noting that the Initiative has quickly become central to discussions on the nation’s energy future.

“A little over two months ago, we commissioned this all-in-one CNG facility in partnership with Portland and Dana Motors. This joint venture is part of NASENI’s vision to accelerate the delivery of market-ready products that reduce the cost of living, improve quality of life, and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he stated.

The Conversion Incentive Program, aimed at the rideshare sector, including Uber and Bolt drivers, offers a 50 per cent discount to drivers who sign up and use the newly launched MY-CNG App.

“CNG is a cleaner, more affordable vehicle fuel, with the potential to reduce transportation costs by up to 70 per cent and deliver 40 per cent savings for car owners,” the EVC/CEO explained. He stressed that this initiative is a response to the current economic challenges, offering a viable solution to reduce the cost of living for Nigerians.

Halilu also highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving these milestones, commending partners Pi-CNG, Portland, and Dana Motors for their dedication. “Working together, we can and will transform Nigeria’s energy and transportation sectors,” he affirmed.

The launch of the MY-CNG App and the Conversion Incentive Program reflect NASENI’s commitment to leveraging technology to drive national transformation. The EVC/CEO concluded by reiterating NASENI’s role as a technology enabler, partnering with the private sector to bring innovative solutions to market and support national development goals, including energy efficiency, climate action, job creation, and poverty alleviation.

NASENI remains Nigeria’s leading technology-transfer agency, purposely-built to fostering innovation, research, and development to support the country’s industrial growth and economic sustainability.

P-Square Feud Escalates as Peter Okoye Speaks Out on Group’s Challenges

P-Square Feud Escalates as Peter Okoye Speaks Out on Group’s Challenges

 

The Nigerian music industry has long been shaped by the dynamic duo, P-Square, comprising brothers Peter and Paul Okoye. Their contributions to the industry are undeniable, but recent developments have cast a shadow over their legacy. The brothers, who once dominated the African music scene, are now embroiled in a public dispute centered around issues of ownership and recognition within the group.

Peter Okoye, one half of the P-Square duo, recently broke his silence in a lengthy letter addressing his brother, Paul. In the letter, Peter expressed his frustration with what he perceives as Paul’s continuous attempts to discredit his contributions to the group they both created.

“My dear brother Paul,” Peter began, “Just like I have told you several times, I am not in any competition with you or anybody else. However, seeing you grant countless interviews where you constantly discredit my efforts in the group that we both created and built together really speaks volumes.”

Peter went on to refute Paul’s claims that he was responsible for 99% of P-Square’s songs, highlighting his role in writing and performing several of the group’s hits, including “EjeaJo,” “Get Squared,” “Bizzy Body,” and “Personally.” He expressed disappointment that Paul seemed to overlook these contributions, instead focusing on moments of perceived failure.

“What made us special was the magic that came from our combined effort – us two! P-Square was a force, and the fans fell in love with P-Square because of our uniqueness and unity,” Peter emphasized, lamenting the current state of affairs that has turned the group into what he described as a “laughingstock.”

Peter’s letter also touched on the internal dynamics of the group, accusing Paul of marginalizing him and aligning with their brother Jude to assert dominance within P-Square. He questioned the necessity of their ongoing feud and urged Paul to consider the bigger picture: the legacy of P-Square and the fans who supported them.

The letter concluded with a message of peace, despite the evident tension. “I genuinely wish you nothing but the best, bro!” Peter wrote, adding that he hopes to focus on his solo music career without further distractions.

As the public awaits further developments, including Peter’s promised address on the ongoing EFCC matter, the future of P-Square remains uncertain. Fans can only hope that the brothers can find a way to reconcile and restore the unity that once made them one of Africa’s most beloved music groups.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

I am happy to get another son in-law – Soludo

I am happy to get another son in-law – Soludo

 

In a momentous ceremony held in Isuofia village, Aguata LGA, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo recently gave away his daughter, Ifeatu Adaora Soludo, in marriage to Arinze Ibekwe. The traditional wedding, attended by family, friends, and dignitaries from across the country, followed all customary rites of the Isuofia community.

Governor Soludo, visibly elated, expressed his gratitude and joy during the event, stating, “To the glory of God Almighty and in the presence of my family, kinsmen, friends, and my in-laws from Onitsha, I gave out my lovely daughter, Ifeatu Adaora Soludo, to her heartthrob after all traditional rites had been met and certified in line with the customs of the Isuofia community.”

He highlighted the historical significance of the occasion for the Soludo family, noting that it was the first such marital union in 142 years. “Female children have been a rarity in the past three generations of our family. To break that ‘jinx,’ God has mercifully provided me with four beautiful daughters, whom I celebrate every day,” Soludo remarked.

Expressing his happiness at welcoming a new son-in-law, the governor added, “I am happy to have gained another son in Arinze Ibekwe. I will continue to pray for God’s choicest blessings upon them and admonish them to take a cue from the 31 years of marital bliss I continue to enjoy with my lovely wife.”

Governor Soludo concluded by thanking guests who traveled from far and wide to join in the celebration, saying, “I thank my friends and all who came from different parts of the world to celebrate with my family yesterday. May God continue to bless and keep you all for better and bigger celebrations.”

Winfred Yavi Clinches Olympic Gold After Nationality Switch from Kenya to Bahrain

Winfred Yavi Clinches Olympic Gold After Nationality Switch from Kenya to Bahrain

 

 

Winfred Yavi, once a promising Kenyan athlete, made headlines when she switched her nationality to Bahrain in 2016. After years of striving to secure a spot on Kenya’s highly competitive athletics team, Yavi made the difficult decision to represent Bahrain, a choice that has now culminated in her first-ever Olympic gold medal.

Yavi’s journey to the podium has been anything but straightforward. Despite her undeniable talent, the fierce competition in Kenya’s athletics scene, particularly in the long-distance and steeplechase events, left her with limited opportunities to showcase her abilities on the global stage. Frustrated but determined to pursue her dreams, Yavi opted to change her allegiance, a move that allowed her to compete at the highest level and fulfill her potential.

Representing Bahrain in the 3000m steeplechase final, Yavi delivered a stunning performance that saw her outpace two of Kenya’s top runners to claim the gold. Her victory is not just a personal triumph but also a significant moment in her athletic career, symbolizing the rewards of perseverance and strategic decision-making.

The win also adds to Bahrain’s growing reputation in the athletics world, as the Gulf nation continues to attract talented athletes from across the globe. For Yavi, the gold medal is a testament to her resilience and her ability to rise above the challenges that once held her back. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the importance of seizing opportunities, even if it means making tough choices along the way.

Yavi’s Olympic success is likely to spark further debate about the growing trend of athletes switching nationalities in search of better opportunities, a topic that has been met with mixed reactions in the sporting community. Nonetheless, her achievement on the track is indisputable, and it marks the beginning of a new chapter in her career, one where she stands proudly as an Olympic champion.

Governor Soludo’s Daughter, Adaora, Weds in Grand Traditional Ceremony in Isuofia

Governor Soludo’s Daughter, Adaora, Weds in Grand Traditional Ceremony in Isuofia

 

Adaora Soludo, the first daughter of Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, has celebrated her marriage to her fiancé, Arinze, in a magnificent traditional wedding ceremony held on August 10, 2024, in her hometown of Isuofia, Anambra State.

The event was a significant cultural affair, bringing together an impressive gathering of high-profile dignitaries, including several Igbo governors, political leaders, and notable figures from across the country. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and cultural pride as guests donned vibrant traditional attire, reflecting the rich heritage of the Igbo people.

Adaora, a renowned fashion entrepreneur, radiated elegance as she was adorned in exquisite traditional regalia, complete with intricate beadwork and a beautifully crafted headpiece, symbolizing the significance of the occasion. Arinze, her groom, equally stood out in his regal attire, embodying the deep cultural roots of the ceremony.

The couple’s union was not only a celebration of love but also a showcase of the Soludo family’s esteemed position within the community. The event was filled with traditional music, dance, and rituals, all of which highlighted the cultural importance of marriage in Igbo society.

Adaora took to Instagram to share glimpses of the day, posting stunning photos and expressing her joy: “Married my best friend in the wedding of my dreams, surrounded by family and loved ones.”

Following the traditional rites in Nigeria, the couple is set to continue their celebrations with a civil union in London, UK, where they will officially formalize their marriage in a more intimate setting.

The couple’s journey to this moment began with their engagement on August 25, 2023, and has since been a story of love, commitment, and shared dreams.

Reported by Anthony Emeka Nwosu.

 

Federal Government of Nigeria & Digital Free Zones in Nigeria (DiFZIN) inaugurate committee for the Establishment of Digital Free Zone for Technology and Global Service Businesses

Federal Government of Nigeria & Digital Free Zones in Nigeria (DiFZIN) inaugurate committee for the Establishment of Digital Free Zone for Technology and Global Service Businesses

In a bid to drive the ease of doing business for global digital, finance, knowledge- and services-oriented enterprises in Nigeria, the Federal Government of Nigeria established a steering committee chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to drive the promotion and establishment of a digital free zone in Nigeria to accommodate the peculiar needs of innovative digital trade and service businesses.

 

This steering committee is chaired by His Excellency Mr President, supported by the Honourable Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy (“HMF/CME”) as Vice Chairman. Other members are the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice; the Honourable Ministers of Industry, Trade and Investment; Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy; and Interior; the heads of relevant Government Agencies and Committees; and the Initiative for the Promotion of Digital Free Zones in Nigeria (DiFZIN) as the private-sector stakeholders’ representative and technical advisers. DiFZIN is a non-profit advocacy and policy research organisation supported by a consortium of private sector development-focused and advisory institutions including Africa Finance Corporation, PwC Nigeria, Charter Cities Institute, Future Africa, and Itana. The mission of the organisation is to see Nigeria’s free zones ecosystem fulfil its full potential as Africa’s major hub for global technology and service businesses.

This Committee will work collaboratively with relevant agencies of government and private stakeholders to review and align Nigeria’s free zone policies, technology and processes with global standards, then develop and publish policy and operational frameworks to enable qualified global and local technology and service businesses to establish Pan-African or global operations from Nigeria. Businesses that take advantage of the zone will benefit from competitive business incentives provided by modernized free zones regulations, including tax, immigration and banking incentives, simplified government compliance processes, clear and predictable business regulation and an enabling business environment.

As part of the Federal Government’s strategic growth objectives, it aims to boost foreign direct investment, create employment opportunities, and facilitate the capital flow into Nigeria’s economy, through an innovative and future-oriented approach to the free zones ecosystem.

The HMF/CME stated that “the pivotal role of free zones to catalysing and sustaining economic growth in an emerging market such as Nigeria cannot be overemphasised. Its implementation in this digital age must not only encompass manufacturing undertakings but also integrate the central role of technology-focused businesses in attracting investments and making available to the global markets, our domestic talents under a liberal regulatory framework. These and more are what the Government aims to deliver through the digital free zones.”

Our goal is to create a conducive environment for global technology and services-based businesses to thrive, facilitating remote operations and banking from Nigeria for Africa

Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, MD/CEO of NEPZA (Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority), emphasized the Authority’s commitment to digital transformation. He highlighted the e-NEPZA platform, which will streamline government services and comply with the Federal Government’s ease of doing business policy.

Dr Ogunyemi also noted the importance of data privacy, with data stored locally in local servers as well as the ability of small businesses to access global markets, addressing the need for digital infrastructure like fibre optics. “We look forward to partnering with DiFZIN to advance our digital processes,” he stated. NEPZA’s support for Digital Free Zones signals a move towards a digitally driven economy, unlocking new opportunities for small and medium-scale enterprises as well as large corporations in Nigeria.

Mr. Luqman Edu (Executive Director of DiFZIN and CEO of Itana) and the DiFZIN consortium, aim to support the Federal Government in positioning Nigeria as a hub for regional expansion across Africa. These efforts are designed to contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s GDP, government revenue, capital importation, and foreign exchange availability, while simultaneously generating employment opportunities for the burgeoning Nigerian youth population.

“DiFZIN is committed to driving the agenda for reforms to the regulatory frameworks for taxation, banking, immigration, and ease of doing business, among others, within the free zones ecosystem,” said Mr Edu. “Our goal is to create a conducive environment for global technology and services-based businesses to thrive, facilitating remote operations and banking from Nigeria for Africa, thereby positioning Nigeria as a hub for Africa, akin to what Delaware is for the US, and Dubai is for Asia.”

Speaking on the partnership with DiFZIN, Banji Fehintola, Head of Financial Services at AFC said “AFC’s advisory team is uniquely skilled in providing tailored financial and technical advice to public and private sector players across Africa. We look forward to collaborating with DiFZIN and all other partners to modernize Nigeria’s free trade zones, attract much-needed investment, create local jobs, and boost trade and commerce in Nigeria and Africa.”

Digital Free Zones foster innovation and economic expansion by leveraging cutting-edge digital technologies such as AI and Edge Computing, and a supportive regulatory environment. These ecosystems serve as incubators for innovation, providing a platform for businesses to drive growth and competitiveness. The supportive regulatory framework also ensures a conducive environment for experimentation, collaboration, and the seamless integration of emerging technologies into everyday business operations.

For more information about DiFZIN and its initiatives, please visit www.DiFZIN.org or contact hello@difzin.org.

Africa, Colonialism, and Queen Elizabeth II

Africa, Colonialism, and Queen Elizabeth II

 

Ghana got her independence from Britain in 1957, that is 65 years ago. That will be five years after Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne.

Countries like Somalia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Part of Cameroon, Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, Malawi, Zambia, The Gambia, Botswana, Lesotho, Mauritius, and Swaziland, all got their independence between 1960 to 1968.

The latest to gain independence from Britain will be Seychelles in 1976 and Zimbabwe in 1980.

To put this in proper context, none of the countries that gained independence from Britain is less than 42 years old. While Ghana marked her 65 years of independence in March this year, Nigeria will be 62 by October, and Zimbabwe marked 42 in April.

Most of the African countries colonized by France got their independence in 1960. Countries like Cameroon, Senegal, Togo, Mali, Madagascar, Somalia, Niger, Cote d’Ivoire, Chad, Central Africa Republic, Congo (Brazzaville), Gabon, and Mauritania all got their independence in 1960. The earliest to gain independence from France is Guinea in 1958, and the latest is Djibouti in 1977.

The fact is that the majority of the countries in Africa gained their independence 60 years ago.

60 years is enough to make the needed change and make the continent what it should be. 60 years is more than enough to position Africa as the pride and world power judging from its minerals and human resources.

But, No. . . Africa is still the poorest continent in the world.

Technically we have gained independence, but we are still very much dependent on those that colonized us.

While we are still subjected to speaking and writing in their language, the value of our mineral and human resources is determined by them.

They did havoc to Africa in our foundational stage, using ruler and pencil to draw lines on our map just to divide and group a multi-ethnic people into one country for their selfish aim, but we did evil and still continue to do evil to ourselves due to our failure to draft our own path for 60 years now after independence.

We have only but ourselves to blame.

It is now a mourning week in most African countries.

Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya declared 4 days of National mourning.
Paul Kagame of Rwanda declared 10 days of mourning.
Lazarus Chakwera of Malawi declared 10 days of mourning.
Samia Suluhu of Tanzania declared 5 days of mourning.

I am sure more are still to come.

Well, it is good to mourn with those who mourn but let us be clear, it is not about mourning Queen Eliza. . . it is about putting into action what Bob Marley sang about emancipation. Remind me of the song, please!

#Fr. Kelvin Ugwu