Abia State is proud to announce the launch of its new official logo, a dynamic representation of our state’s rich cultural heritage, strength, and forward-looking spirit. This new emblem incorporates significant symbols from Igbo mythology and worldview, reflecting the diverse and profound meanings they hold within our culture.

The new logo features:

– **The Eagle (Ugo)**: Representing strength, courage, wisdom, power, and freedom.
– **The Leopards (Agu)**: Signifying confidence, power, intelligence, and swiftness.
– **The Elephant (Enyi)**: A symbol of loyalty, grandeur, and majesty, echoing the Igbo adage “uwa bu ahia” (the world is a marketplace and it is big).

The design is segmented into four distinct parts, each with its own symbolism:

1. **Okpu Agu**: Signifying Oha Ndi Igbo (the general populace of the Igbo people).
2. **A Crane and a Gear**: Representing technological advancement.
3. **A Book**: Emblematic of academic and educational progress.
4. **A Palm Tree**: Denoting agricultural prowess.

This new logo replaces the former one, which can be viewed (https://www.tekedia.com/the-new-abia-state-logo-prosperity-through-enterprise/). While the introduction of a new logo alone will not address infrastructural challenges such as bridge repairs or providing constant electricity, it serves as a rallying symbol for all Abians to unite and work towards a brighter future.

The meanings of the symbols in the new logo have been shared widely, with credits extended to the creator(s) whose insights were circulated via WhatsApp.

 

 

Adejuwon Soyinka, a two-time Emmy-nominated journalist and prominent figure in Nigerian television, recently addressed colleagues at the Journalism, Digital Tech, and AI Dialogue organized by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development. The event, held in Abuja, brought together experts from the media and technology sectors to discuss the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and its implications.

During a panel session focused on “AI, Deepfake, and Disinformation Landscape,” Soyinka urged his peers to “collaborate, seize the narrative, and be in the driver’s seat of AI adoption in the Nigerian media and technology ecosystem.” He emphasized the importance of proactive engagement with AI technologies to shape their impact on the industry, government, and society at large.

Soyinka highlighted the potential benefits and challenges of AI adoption, sharing his insights on how it could transform the Nigerian media landscape. “It was an opportunity to share my perspectives on AI adoption and its likely impact on the Nigerian media industry, government, and indeed the wider society,” he said.

The conference provided a platform for meaningful exchanges between media and tech experts, fostering discussions on the future of AI in Nigeria. Soyinka expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, stating, “It was nice meeting and exchanging views with experts in the Nigerian media and tech space.”

 

The hybrid event will bring together startup founders and pioneers from across Africa; Microsoft’s startup partners and customers will take to the main stage to share their stories of success; Up to 10,000 startups will be given access to industry-specific expertise and insights on how best to take their business to the next level with the help of AI

 

Microsoft announced the introduction of its first African Startups AI Fest at GITEX Africa in Marrakech, Morocco today. Spearheaded by the organisation’s Africa Transformation Office (ATO), the event promises to inspire and support startups to accelerate their journey to market with the right AI-powered tech solutions. The event, scheduled for 6 June 2024, will take place in Johannesburg, South Africa, with virtual access available to attendees across the continent.

The African Startups AI Fest will bring together founders, entrepreneurs, business decision-makers, engineers and developers in the startups space from across the continent. This inaugural event aims to showcase the transformative power of AI and how startups can use this revolutionary technology to drive innovation and take their ideas not only to local markets but a global stage.

“There is a need to provide startups on the continent with the resources to take their concepts from the drawing board to customers,” says Lillian Barnard, Microsoft Africa President. “From AI-enabled tech solutions to advanced digital skills, startups need to be given every opportunity to thrive in a highly competitive global market because they are the catalysts for job creation and economic growth in Africa.” Overcoming mounting economic pressures

Recent research from The African Tech Startups Funding Report (http://apo-opa.co/3KlSzQs) has found that funding for tech startups in Africa has declined after a highly successful 2022 when 633 tech startups raised over $3 billion in funding.

At Microsoft, we believe that technology, particularly the transformative power of AI, holds the key to a more empowered future in Africa

“In the face of a challenging economic climate, startups across Africa have demonstrated remarkable resilience,” Barnard says. “Despite the tough conditions, they have ignited a wave of innovation. Empowered with the right tech tools, startups can scale their solutions, enhance productivity, and drive growth. At Microsoft, we believe that technology, particularly the transformative power of AI, holds the key to a more empowered future in Africa.”

Finding the right tech partner

Over the years, Microsoft has supported startups on the continent to grow and develop. These success stories include the likes of RE Legal Interact, M-KOPA, Omnisient, Zen Dawa, Deepecho and Terragon.

American Express and Ecobank Group (www.Ecobank.com), the leading pan-African financial services Group, announced an agreement to significantly expand American Express Card acceptance in twenty-one countries across Africa.

 

Through this agreement, American Express Card Members will be able to use their Cards in twelve new countries: Burundi, Central African Republic, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Niger, São Tomé and Príncipe, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Togo. Additionally, the number of merchants accepting American Express Card payments will increase in nine further countries where American Express acceptance already exists: Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Nigeria, the Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda.Acceptance in these countries will be rolled out over the next 12 months.Ecobank will also provide ATM acceptance for American Express in all countries where they operate in Africa (with the exception of Cape Verde).

 

The agreement, which was announced at the African Development Bank Group Annual Meetings 2024, will strengthen the American Express global network by increasing the number of locations where American Express Card Members can use their Cards in Sub-Saharan Africa. The agreement will also enable merchants to attract business from a new customer base of American Express consumer, business and corporate Card Members in Africa and around the world.

With Ecobank’s support, we look forward to providing merchants in these countries access to higher-spending American Express Card Members both in Africa and from around the world

 

“We are delighted to welcome American Express to our network, reinforcing our commitment to offering innovative payments solutions for customers across Africa,” said Jeremy Awori, CEO of Ecobank Group. “This agreement will benefit American Express Card Members, providing them with greater choice and will help merchants to grow their businesses. It also highlights the scalability of Ecobank’s unrivalled borderless banking ecosystem and network across Africa.”

 

Mohammed Badi, President of Global Network Services at American Express, commented: “This agreement with Ecobank is a major milestone for American Express acceptance across Africa as it will expand our presence in sub-Saharan Africa to 42 countries from 30 at present. With Ecobank’s support, we look forward to providing merchants in these countries access to higher-spending American Express Card Members both in Africa and from around the world.”

 

This collaboration aligns with Ecobank’s Growth, Transformation and Returns strategic agenda. Ecobank is committed to offering its retail customers innovative and easy-to-use financial solutions through its unified banking platform across Africa.

The Intersection of Web Design and Cyber Security

One of the primary responsibilities of web designers is to ensure that the websites they create safeguard user data. With the rise of eCommerce, social media, and online services, users are required to provide personal information. Designers must incorporate security measures to protect this sensitive data from breaches and theft.

Tomorrow May 31st, being Web Designer Day, it is important that we understand how these motivations highlight the critical importance of incorporating robust cyber security measures in web design. By doing so, web designers can help protect businesses from the myriad threats posed by cybercriminals – In today’s digital age, where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated, integrating cyber security into web design is not just an option, it is a necessity.

Here are a few tips web designers can integrate cyber security:

Secure Coding Practices: Secure coding, also known as secure programming, involves writing code in a high-level language that adheres to strict principles to prevent potential. It is more than writing and releasing code into applications. It means creating a secure development environment based on a reliable and secure IT

SSL Certificates: An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a digital certificate that authenticates the identity of a website and encrypts information sent to the server using SSL technology. Websites with SSL certificates are often indicated by a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar and use “https://” in their URL. This visual cue helps users identify secure sites and builds trust in the website’s security.

Regular Security Audits: Conducting regular security audits helps identify and fix vulnerabilities. Web designers should collaborate with cyber security experts to perform thorough assessments of their websites.

User Authentication and Authorization: Implementing robust user authentication mechanisms, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), can prevent unauthorized access. Proper authorization protocols ensure that users only have access to the data and functionalities relevant to their role.

Staying Informed: Cyber security is an ever-evolving field. Web designers should stay informed about the latest security threats and best practices. Continuous learning and professional development in cyber security can help designers keep their skills and knowledge up to date.

Privacy by design: Privacy by design should be embedded into the development and operation of systems, processes, and services from the outset. It is important that personal data is automatically protected and there is total transparency about data practices and policies. This ensures that all stakeholders, including users, can see and verify that data handling practices are in line with the stated promises and objectives.

Implementing a web security solution: A browser-based web security solution can provide comprehensive protection to users against web-related cyber threats. It can block known-bad phishing sites and drive-by downloads, monitor movement of sensitive data and provide increased visibility and control.

Conclusion

Web Designer Day not only acknowledges the artistic and functional aspects of web design, but also recognize the critical role of cyber security. By integrating robust security measures into their designs, web designers can create safer, more reliable, and more trustworthy online experiences for users. This commitment to cyber security not only protects users but also enhances the overall value and success of the websites they create.

“Building a website secure by design is not just about protecting data, it’s about fostering trust and ensuring resilience against ever-evolving threats. By integrating security from the ground up, developers create robust systems that safeguard sensitive information, preserve user privacy, and uphold the integrity of online interactions,” said Rudi van Rooyen, Security Engineer, Check Point Software Technologies.

 “Secure by design principles help prevent vulnerabilities before they arise, reducing the risk of breaches and cyberattacks. Ultimately, it’s the cornerstone of sustainable digital growth and user confidence, laying a strong foundation for the future of web development.”

PEUGEOT (www.PEUGEOT.com), a major player in technological innovation, electrifies VivaTech with its bold concept car INCEPTION, ushering in a new era of electric mobility. On its stand, PEUGEOT presents its vision of the future embodied by the revolutionary Hypersquare steering control– the innovation that redefines the driving experience of tomorrow.

 

ALLURE: The French public can discover the INCEPTION concept car for the first time.

EMOTION: The Hypersquare steering control radically transforms the driving experience and pleasure.

EXCELLENCE: PEUGEOT is a leader in technological innovation in Europe.

Building on over 200 years of innovation experience, PEUGEOT aims to reinvent the sustainable mobility of tomorrow by placing pleasure and emotion at the heart of the customer experience.

VivaTech 2024, will see PEUGEOT representatives present the brand’s innovation strategy. Sessions will take place four times, daily on the PEUGEOT stand, at 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM.

  • Wednesday, May 22: Phil York, Marketing and Communication Director.
  • Thursday, May 23: Jérôme Micheron, Product Director.
  • Friday, May 24: Matthias Hossann, Design Director.

Register for one of the sessions offered via the link: http://apo-opa.co/3VimKy2

PEUGEOT innovation is about technological creativity connected to reality, meeting the real needs of customers and enhancing the joy of driving. At VivaTech 2024, PEUGEOT presents its vision of the car of tomorrow with the INCEPTION concept car and its revolutionary Hypersquare steering control that aims to reinvent the driving experience.

PEUGEOT INCEPTION CONCEPT: THE ELECTRIC MOBILITY OF TOMORROW

The PEUGEOT INCEPTION CONCEPT is the expression of PEUGEOT’s optimistic vision for the sustainable mobility of tomorrow. Unveiled at CES in Las Vegas, it will be presented to the French public for the first time at VivaTech 2024.

Featuring a new design language that exalts its feline and attractive attitude, its revolutionary interior design, and its promise of unprecedented driving sensations, the PEUGEOT INCEPTION CONCEPT opens a new era and heralds the future electric vehicles of the brand.

The PEUGEOT INCEPTION CONCEPT reinterprets the brand’s genes, entering a new era of design. It is simpler and purer, with finishes and textures worthy of the digital world. This new design oscillates between sensual lines and athletic curves, more geometric and sharp.

The 100% electric PEUGEOT INCEPTION CONCEPT is equipped with 800 V technology. Its 100 kWh battery allows it to travel 800 km on a single charge.

The INCEPTION Concept’s interior showcases an array of new techniques that PEUGEOT will deploy to deliver on the STELLANTIS commitment to reduce its carbon footprint by more than 50% by 2030 compared to 2021, becoming fully Carbon Net Zero by 2038:

  • Forged textiles: 100% polyester fabric offcuts from the design centre’s prototyping workshops or suppliers are reused and thermo-compressed under vacuum, with the injection of a binder in the form of a resourced resin. This extremely hard and durable material can be transformed into structural or trim pieces.
  • The fusion of velvet and 3D printing: The upholstery of the seats and floor is made with a very special 100% recycled polyester velvet, which extends onto the floor, printed with 3D patterns to serve as a floor mat.
  • Air Quilting® padding: The comfort of the seats is enhanced by the presence of real adjustable mattresses at the shoulder level. This electro- welded, single-material upholstery, which is easy to recycle, is made from inflatable pockets recovered from conventional seats.

 

THE ICONIC PEUGEOT i-COCKPIT® REINVENTED WITH HYPERSQUARE

With over 12 million models equipped in the past 12 years, the PEUGEOT i- Cockpit® is emblematic of PEUGEOT’s innovation in customer service and driving pleasure, as evidenced by the spectacular latest generation of the Panoramic i-Cockpit® introduced in the new PEUGEOT E-3008 and E-5008.

The PEUGEOT INCEPTION Concept heralds the next generation of i- Cockpit®, with a completely rethought architecture that replaces the traditional steering wheel and stalks with the Hypersquare steering control, inspired by both digital and video game worlds.

The Hypersquare creates a new natural gesture, simpler and more intuitive. With either a simple click or touch of the fingertips, without removing their hands from the steering control, the driver can manage all the vehicle’s parameters. The Hypersquare is brought to live thanks to steer-by-wire technology making driving more instinctive and simpler.

The Hypersquare steering control is combined with a flexible display that broadcasts driving or infotainment information around 360 degrees. This HALO CLUSTER, with its circular screen, provides information to the driver and passengers as they approach the car. This external communication reinforces the concept of sharing and a new vision for the automobile.

The Hypersquare with digital electric controls consists of a screen featuring circular cells at each of its four corners, which have multiple functions:

  • The entirely natural and universal grip of the steering control.
  • The comfort of fingertip driving.
  • The activation of vehicle controls by simple thumb impulses.The driver discovers a gesture similar to that of daily smartphone use. This intuitive aspect leads to a higher level of safety.

The centre of the Hypersquare consists of a tablet like screen dedicated to displaying control information. The various functionalities (air conditioning, radio volume, driving aids, etc.) are displayed on the two side parts to facilitate access to the chosen command. This command is located inside the circular cells and is accessible by moving only the thumb without releasing the steering

control. For even greater driving comfort, the surround of the Hypersquare is made using 3D printing, while at the centre, the digital glass screen gives a high-tech and upscale appearance.

PEUGEOT Hypersquare and the next generation of i-Cockpit®, set to revolutionise the emotion and pleasure of driving, is set to be featured in the brand’s upcoming vehicles, by 2026.

DATA AND CONNECTED SERVICES WITH MOBILISIGHTS

At its stand at VivaTech 2024, PEUGEOT welcomes Mobilisights. The Stellantis Business Unit, specialising in Data as a Service (DaaS), provides access to telemetry data from connected PEUGEOT vehicles and other brands of the group.

The data collected by Mobilisights enables the personalisation of the driver’s experience through innovative services and applications from a third- party partner ecosystem, with the aim of improving the daily life of drivers, always and only with their consent.

For instance, Mobilisights data can be used to develop intuitive applications for electric vehicle owners that simplify charging, allow precise tracking of its cost, while enhancing the user experience.

“REMOTE DRIVING” WITH VAY

PEUGEOT also welcomes its partner, the scale-up Vay to its stand at VivaTech 2024, where PEUGEOT is exploring the potential applications of “remote driving.”

“Remote driving” refers to the remote control and operation of a vehicle. This technology allows for the efficient management of multiple vehicles with just one driver located remotely, using cellular connectivity and sensors such as cameras integrated into the vehicles.

At VivaTech 2024, PEUGEOT presents a “telestation” at its stand that enables Vay’s highly qualified and certified “teledrivers” to drive remotely by operating the steering, braking, and acceleration of the vehicle. The telestation provides a real-time view of the vehicle’s surroundings, ensuring a fully immersive and responsive control.

This technology enables increased efficiency of delivery operations, ‘click- a-button, get-a- car’ services for carsharing and car rental, and enables private cars owners to have their vehicle moved remotely when and where needed.

 

In an era where the boundaries of right and wrong often seem blurred, Pastor Fred Obetoh stands out as a beacon of faith and integrity. Recognized as a chosen vessel of God, Pastor Obetoh will be celebrating his birthday, offering a special thanksgiving for God’s mercies, goodness, and health, enabling him to continue his divine mission.

As the General Overseer of Faith Cathedral International Ministries in Egbeda, Lagos, Pastor Fred Obetoh has distinguished himself through steadfast devotion and scandal-free leadership. His commitment to truthfully following God has set him apart in the often tumultuous landscape of Pentecostalism, underscoring his divine selection for God’s work.

Tributes have already begun to pour in from congregants and well-wishers. The church, via a heartfelt Facebook post, declared: “Happy birthday to God’s general! Show me a man who loves God more than anything else and is never ashamed of the gospel of Christ. A man whose daily activity revolves around God’s service in His vineyard.”

The message continued, highlighting Pastor Obetoh’s multifaceted role: “He’s a teacher, a friend, a mentor, a father, and a philanthropist; blessed with godly wisdom and a listening ear. A terror to the kingdom of darkness; a gift to the body of Christ, here’s a giant who’s unassuming and humble to a fault.”

In a personal note to Pastor Obetoh, the church added: “Daddy, as you clock a year wiser today, we join the hosts of heaven to celebrate the gift of you! We appreciate the efforts, prayers, and intercessions; the advice, the corrections, and the many sacrifices of love towards us, your children. We love you and we pray that God’s grace will be multiplied upon your life daily and your ministry will never suffer shipwreck. You will not fail, fall, falter, nor faint in Jesus’ name. Once more, happy birthday, Daddy!”

The celebrations mark a significant moment for Pastor Fred Obetoh and the Faith Cathedral International Ministries community, reflecting on his unwavering dedication and the profound impact of his ministry.

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu
Faith Cathedral International Ministries
Egbeda, Lagos

**#PastorFredsDay #FCIM**

 

In a society where media influence holds significant sway over societal norms and aspirations, it is crucial that content creators exercise responsibility in the messages they convey. With this in mind, a recent statement issued by Anthony Emeka Nwosu,a media consultant,has shed light on the imperative for podcast hosts to prioritize substance over superficiality in their guest selections.

In particular, attention has been drawn to the podcast hosted by Nedu and his peers, wherein the choice of guests has come under scrutiny. Instead of spotlighting individuals who contribute minimally to meaningful discourse, the call is for a shift towards highlighting the achievements of industrious women across various fields.

“It’s time to redirect our focus towards celebrating the countless industrious women who are excelling in technology, academia, medicine, music, literature, and beyond,” remarked Nwosu Anthony . “These are the role models our younger generation truly deserves.”

Central to the plea is the notion of featuring guests who can engage in substantive discussions surrounding ideas, challenges faced, and strategies for overcoming obstacles without compromising personal integrity.

“The podcast should serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue, not a pedestal for those whose sole claim to fame rests on superficial attributes,” emphasized Nwosu. “We need to celebrate modern women who excel in their careers while maintaining fulfilling personal lives, making positive impacts on their families and communities.”

By championing accomplished individuals of substance, podcast hosts can provide authentic inspiration and counteract the detrimental effects of promoting less deserving individuals solely for the sake of sensationalism.

“We urge podcast hosts to use their platforms to uplift and educate, rather than perpetuate damaging stereotypes,” concluded a social media commentator. “Let’s empower the next generation by showcasing true examples of success and resilience.”

 

 

 

 

……Offers Free JAMB CBT Training for SS2 and SS3 Students

 

The Chidoka family, under the Nneka Chidoka Outreach Program (NCOP), has announced payment of the first term 2024/2025 school fees for over 500 students at St. Andrews Primary and Secondary School as well as free JAMB CBT training for all SS2 and SS3 students in Obosi, Anambra State

This initiative was announced by Chief Osita Chidoka, speaking on behalf of the family, during the first memorial service of their late mother, Deaconess Victoria Nneka Chidoka, at St. Andrews Anglican Church, Obosi last Sunday.

Additionally, the Chidoka family announced the expansion of the Nneka Chidoka Outreach Program’s (NCOP) ongoing cancer screening and awareness campaign in Enugu and Anambra States to other states across the country’s six geopolitical zones. The current program has, so far, facilitated cancer screenings for over 2,000 individuals and surgical interventions for about 50 persons at various stages of diagnosis.

Chief Chidoka also told the Church audience that In fulfilling their mother’s wishes, the Outreach Program had provided financial assistance to more than 200 women traders in Anambra and Abia States.

Chief Osita Chidoka, a former Minister of Aviation and Chancellor of the Athena Centre, highlighted NCOP’s commitment to improving educational outcomes and early computer education, especially for the girl-child.

“This commitment is part of our broader mission to enhance cancer awareness and support community education,” Chidoka said.

Community and church leaders at the event celebrated the Chidoka family’s philanthropic efforts, noting that the school fees support timing around Nigeria’s Children’s Day is crucial in providing equal educational opportunities.

In celebrating the philanthropic work of the Chidoka family, references were made to Chief Osita Chidoka’s previous contributions, including the donation of a multi-purpose one-storey church hall and various community projects initiated by Hon Obinna Chidoka during his tenure in the National Assembly. These contributions were acknowledged as enduring symbols of their dedication to their community.

The Vicar of the Church, Venerable Ikechukwu Ihemtuge, in response, described the continuous support as “living testaments to the family’s love of God and dedication to the community”.

 

 

 

 

Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a global provider of critical digital infrastructure and continuity solutions, has pledged its support of the upcoming Gitex Africa event, touted to be the continent’s largest and most influential tech and startup show. At this year’s event, Vertiv will showcase its critical infrastructure solutions, providing Gitex Africa visitors with an immersive, 3D experience.

 

This will include access to the VertivTM Virtual Showroom, which creates a virtual experience using photo-realistic 3D models enriched with engaging animations that allow users to interact with state-of-the-art digital infrastructure solutions from the Gitex Africa stand. The showroom displays a range of digital infrastructure equipment, whether it be fully equipped racks, highly efficient cooling equipment, or intelligent power, in a walkable facility.

 

Vertiv will also feature the VertivTM XR App at Gitex Africa, allowing IT managers, data centre operators and channel partners to visualise Vertiv data centre solutions in the location they would occupy in any given facility, the same way a homeowner might use a virtual reality app to place versions of a new couch or kitchen cabinets in their space to see how they look.

 

The App guides users through product selection and placement, visualising data centre infrastructure equipment in their location of choice – be it in their own data centre, offices or lobby. This virtual representation helps data centre decision-makers plan more effectively and achieve a better overview of their facility’s physical footprint.

 

The VertivTM Virtual Showroom and the VertivTM XR App will allow Gitex Africa visitors looking to scale critical facilities or make their existing data centres and IT systems future-ready to take the guesswork out of the equation, explains Wojtek Piorko, managing director for Africa at Vertiv.

 

 

“We’re bringing the power of augmented reality to Gitex Africa, helping local businesses to bring their future critical IT infrastructure to life, and allowing them to make more informed buying decisions and recommendations, not just by ‘seeing’ our latest solutions but also being able to visualise in a tangible way how new products could interact with their existing environments, all from the palm of their hand,” Piorko says.

 

“We look forward to engaging with key stakeholders through our participation at Gitex Africa. The presence of our executive team at the event underscores our commitment to the region and our strategic focus in particular on the local telecommunications and enterprise sectors,” adds Piorko.

 

Gitex Africa 2024 will take place from the 29th to the 31st of May 2024, in Bab Jdid, Marrakech, Morocco. Vertiv can be found on booth 4B-10 in Hall 4. Register to visit Gitex Africa 2024 by clicking here.