Central Bank of Nigeria Explores New Trade Opportunities at UK Trade Mission

Central Bank of Nigeria Explores New Trade Opportunities at UK Trade Mission

 

 

In a significant move to bolster international trade relations, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) participated in the 2024 Trade Mission to the United Kingdom. This event, held on June 25, 2024, showcased a high-profile delegation led by Mr. Philip Ikeazor, Deputy Governor for Financial System Stability (FSS) at the CBN, representing the Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso.

Mr. Ikeazor was joined by Mr. Ray Atelly, President and Chairman of the Council of the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), and Dr. Bala Bello, Deputy Governor for Corporate Services at the CBN. The Nigerian delegation included key stakeholders and industry leaders, highlighting the nation’s commitment to fostering robust economic partnerships with the United Kingdom.

The trade mission aimed to identify and explore new trade opportunities, enhance bilateral trade relations, and promote investment between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Participants engaged in a series of strategic meetings, discussions, and networking sessions designed to deepen economic ties and stimulate mutual growth.May be an image of 3 people, dais and text

Mr. Ikeazor, in his address, emphasized the importance of such missions in driving economic development and financial stability. He underscored the CBN’s dedication to creating a conducive environment for trade and investment, which is vital for the nation’s economic progress.

Mr. Ray Atelly of the NBCC highlighted the chamber’s role in facilitating trade and investment opportunities between Nigeria and the UK, stressing the need for continued collaboration to achieve shared economic goals.

Dr. Bala Bello echoed these sentiments, pointing out the CBN’s strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening the financial system and supporting Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts.

The event, attended by a host of dignitaries and business leaders, underscored the strong ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. It concluded with a renewed commitment to enhancing economic cooperation and exploring innovative avenues for mutual prosperity.

Radisson Hotel Group bolsters African presence with 7 additional hotels and over 1,200 new rooms including a landmark entry in Tanzania

Radisson Hotel Group bolsters African presence with 7 additional hotels and over 1,200 new rooms including a landmark entry in Tanzania

Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) is delighted to announce the addition of seven new hotels, adding over 1,200 hotel rooms to its African portfolio and its debut in Tanzania within the first half of 2024. With those additions, the Group’s footprint in Africa has grown to nearly 100 hotels in operation and development, placing the Group well on track to reach its goal of 150 hotels within the next five years. 

 

Tanzania has been identified as a key market in the Group’s proactive expansion strategy, making its debut in the country with two hotel signings. This addition enhances the Group’s diverse African portfolio, spanning across 30 countries, further establishing it as the hotel company with the largest market presence in Africa.

In Nigeria, Radisson Hotel Group continues to hold a leading position with a portfolio of 13 hotels in operation and under development, including five new hotels signed in 2023. The new signing of the Radisson RED Hotel Abuja has further bolstered the Group’s presence in the city, bringing the total number of hotels under development in Abuja to four.

In Morocco, the Group has pursued the same efforts with a clear transformation plan, growing its presence from 1 hotel in 2020 to over 9 hotels in operation and 4 hotels in development today. Casablanca represents a strategic hub among multiple continents and the new signing of Radisson Blu Hotel & Apartments Casablanca Finance City and Radisson RED Hotel Casablanca Finance City solidifies the Group’s ambitions to reach over 25 hotels by 2030 across the country.

Ramsay Rankoussi, Vice President, Development, Africa and Turkey at Radisson Hotel Group, said, “The seven new hotels align with our expansion strategy, demonstrating significant growth in key African markets such as Morocco, Nigeria, Tunisia and Ethiopia as well as our highly anticipated debut in Tanzania. These hotels also highlight our conversion strategy and our commitment to diversifying our portfolio by introducing new brands and cementing our presence in these important markets.”

The six hotel signings include:

Radisson Blu Hotel & Apartments, Dar es Salaam (Tanzania)

Marking Radisson Hotel Group’s debut in Tanzania, this 138-room hotel, featuring 94 guestrooms and 44 three-bedroom apartments, is set to open in 2025 as part of a mixed-use development in Dar es Salaam’s CBD. The hotel will occupy the top 14 floors of a 33-floor tower, one of the tallest buildings in the area, and is within walking distance of the ferry terminal to Zanzibar Island.

The hotel will offer a diverse array of dining facilities, including a lobby café, business class lounge, all-day dining restaurant, specialty restaurant, outdoor pool, and pool restaurant. Additional amenities include retail stores, a ladies’ salon, indoor parking, a gym, steam room and sauna, kids’ playroom, and eight meeting rooms.

Radisson Hotel Mwanza (Tanzania)

Supporting a strong market entry, this 196-room hotel, currently under construction, will debut the Radisson brand in Tanzania in 2025. Mwanza, Tanzania’s second-largest city, is renowned for corporate meetings and events and is the ideal starting point for tours to the Serengeti National Park. As the only branded hotel in Mwanza, it will feature a lobby café and bar, all-day dining restaurant, sports bar, outdoor pool bar, executive lounge, and two specialty restaurants, Balaustine, a ‘casual-fine dining’ experience inspired by the Barbary coast and the Levant and Filini, offering a delectable dining experience of fresh, simple, and delicious Italian-style cuisine.

We’ve recently announced our ambition to reach 25 hotels by 2030, doubling the portfolio in both countries

The meetings and events space includes a triple-height ballroom, business center, boardrooms, and a conference room. The extensive wellness facilities will include a gym, spa, outdoor pool, and kids’ playground.

Radisson Blu Hotel & Apartments, Casablanca Finance City and Radisson RED Casablanca Finance City (Morocco)

Enhancing the Group’s Moroccan portfolio, which currently includes 11 hotels in operation and under development, is the addition of new two dual-branded hotels and a serviced apartment. These new builds, including the first Radisson RED hotel in North Africa will feature a total of 381 rooms, are set to open in late 2027. They will be located in Casa Anfa, at the heart of Casablanca Finance City, the city’s new financial hub, recognized as Africa’s leading financial center, on par with London and La Défense in Paris.

Providing guests with an array of dining and wellness facilities for an ideal stay, the Radisson Blu will offer guests an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty rooftop restaurant, and a rooftop bar. Meanwhile, the Radisson RED hotel, will feature a restaurant and a pool bar. The Radisson Blu’s wellness facilities will include a spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor rooftop swimming pool. The Radisson RED will also provide a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and an outdoor rooftop swimming pool.

For meetings and events, in addition to the five meeting rooms at the Radisson Blu, there will be a 1,100-square-meter conference center comprising an auditorium, large ballroom and three meeting rooms, making the complex the future meeting destination.

Radisson Blu Hotel & Conference Center, Tunis (Tunisia)

This 305-room hotel, a conversion of an existing property, will soon debut the Radisson Blu brand in Tunis, complementing the Group’s footprint in Tunisia as its seventh hotel in the country and fourth in Tunis. Located just 10 minutes from the airport, the hotel will feature dining outlets such as a lobby bar, shisha bar, all-day dining restaurant, and three specialty restaurants.

The expansive convention center will include multiple meeting rooms, boardrooms, a VIP room, an executive lounge, a business center, and a 1,400 sqm ballroom, making it the largest conference center in the city.

Radisson RED Abuja (Nigeria)

The new-build 105-room hotel, set to open in 2028, will be Radisson Hotel Group’s 13th property in Nigeria and the second Radisson RED in the country, introducing the upper upscale brand to Abuja. Located in Wuse, Abuja’s main commercial and social district, the hotel will be surrounded by corporate offices, popular estates, shopping malls, and nightlife venues. The hotel will feature a bar and terrace, an all-day dining restaurant, and a pool bar and grill. It will also offer 238 square meters of meeting space, including three meeting rooms and a pre-function area, as well as a fitness facility.

Park Inn by Radisson Addis Ababa (Ethiopia)

Scheduled to open in 2025, this 120-room hotel will be the Group’s third hotel in Ethiopia, all located in Addis Ababa and introduce the Park Inn by Radisson brand to the country. Dining options will include a breakfast hall, restaurant hall, coffee shop, and four soft drink bars. The meeting and events space will consist of a large and medium conference room and four meeting rooms. Guests can also enjoy two gyms, a spa, business center, sport facilities, kids’ entertainment area, retail space, and co-working space.

Since 2022, the Group has opened 14 hotels, including the debut of the Radisson brand in Morocco and Tunis with Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle and Radisson Hotel Tunis City Center, solidifying its position as the largest hotel operator in Tunisia. The openings have diversified the Group’s portfolio with the first safari hotel in Africa, Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, the first resort in Livingstone, Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya, and the debut in Reunion Island with Radisson Hotel Saint Denis. This achievement has set a record for the Group in terms of realizing its pipeline into openings, translating into a commendable 15 percent annual net operating growth in its African portfolio.

“With a strong first half of the year, we plan to continue the momentum in the second half by focusing on expanding our presence in key markets such as Morocco and South Africa, where we’ve recently announced our ambition to reach 25 hotels by 2030, doubling the portfolio in both countries. We thank each of our partners for their valued trust in us and our brands,” concluded Rankoussi.

Lagos Business School (LBS) and CityBlue Hotels Partner to Drive Growth in the Hospitality Industry in Africa

Lagos Business School (LBS) and CityBlue Hotels Partner to Drive Growth in the Hospitality Industry in Africa

Africa’s leading Business School, Lagos Business School (LBS), has appointed Jameel Verjee, founder and CEO of CityBlue Hotels (www.CityBlueHotels.com/), Africa’s fastest-growing local hotel chain, to the advisory board of LBS Hospitality Initiative alongside industry heavyweights Trevor Ward and Mossadeck Bally.

 

The Academic Director of LBS Hospitality Initiative, Dr Belinda Nwosu FIH, stated that the Initiative is a platform for developing and growing the hospitality industry in Nigeria and Africa, anchored on four main pillars – Advisory, Engagement, Research, and Capacity Building.

We are excited to take the next step for our group, both in partnership with LBS Hospitality Initiative and to learn from Belinda and her team

CityBlue Hotels, a hospitality and technology business built from the ground up over the last decade across sub-Saharan Africa, has operations in five countries with significant expansion plans. By partnering with LBS Hospitality Initiative, CityBlue hopes to accelerate its expansion into West Africa to complement its plan to open in Accra, Ghana, later this year.

This partnership will strengthen the company’s focus on executive leadership development and critically, expand CityBlue’s ESG and governance strategy across sub-Saharan Africa. Speaking about the partnership at the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), Dr. Belinda Nwosu remarked, “We are happy that Jameel accepted to join our advisory board as his skill set, demonstrable resilience, and range of experiences in Africa will benefit our goal to cocreate solutions for regional players and proactively build a pipeline of local talents for executive leadership in the hospitality industry.”

On his part, at AHIF, Jameel expressed his excitement at the opportunity to collaborate with Lagos Business School; “We are excited to take the next step for our group, both in partnership with LBS Hospitality Initiative and to learn from Belinda and her team. Nigeria has the largest population in Africa and the most potential for knowledge-based, tech-driven growth. This is both an honor and an opportunity for us”.

This partnership between LBS Hospitality Initiative and CityBlue Hotels will, among other things, revolutionise executive development in the hospitality industry in Africa, which aligns with the vision of Lagos Business School to develop responsible leaders to inspire Africa’s growth.

Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) announce Nigerien winner of their Media Awards to break Infertility Stigma, Support Girl Education and Diabetes- Hypertension awareness

Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) announce Nigerien winner of their Media Awards to break Infertility Stigma, Support Girl Education and Diabetes- Hypertension awareness

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany announced the Winners of Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition “More Than a Mother” Awards 2023 and “Diabetes and Hypertension” Awards 2023 from Niger. Winners from the rest of the Africa were also announced, in partnership with African First Ladies, the Ambassadors of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother. The awards ceremony was held via Videoconference to felicitate all the media award winners.

 

The winners were announced and acknowledged by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” campaign. The theme of “More Than a Mother” Awards was to raise awareness on any of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/or Stopping GBV at all levels and the theme of “Diabetes and Hypertension” Awards was to Promote a Healthy Lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension in the African countries.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “I am very excited to announce the winner from Niger and the rest of Africa. We have 83 winners from 22 African countries in partnership with my dear sisters First Ladies of Africa and Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More than a Mother”. Congratulations to all our winners.

We started our Media Awards in 2017, and year after year we are witnessing a substantial increase in the number of outstanding and regular entries from many African countries, which is very encouraging for us.

All our winners are the Champions of critical and sensitive social and health issues in their communities.

It’s truly inspiring to witness how we’re actively involving and engaging everyone, enabling them to be the voice of the voiceless and create a culture shift.

I’m delighted to extend a warm welcome as you join the Merck Foundation Alumni. let’s keep raising awareness on social and health together.”

Merck Foundation is additionally rewarding the winners by providing them with one year access of an online educational training program called ‘MasterClass’. The MasterClass is an immersive online experience and self-paced learning course that can be accessed anywhere with the internet.

“I would also like to announce the Call for Applications for the Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards 2024 “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension”. These awards are in partnership with my dear sisters, the African First Ladies who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, concluded Senator Kelej.

Nigerien Winner of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Media Recognition Awards 2023:

  • Koami Agbetiafa, Societe, Niger, First Position, Print Category

 

Winners of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Media Recognition Awards 2023

Here are the winners from West African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of The Gambia, H.E. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW; and The First Lady of Ghana and H.E. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Raissa Sambou, The Spectator, Ghana (First Position)

 

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Emelia Naa Ayeley Aryee, Myjoyonline, Ghana (First Position)
  • Mariam Hamzat, Freelancer, Nigeria (Second Position)
  • Mariama, Dem Star.gm, The Gambia (Second Position)

 

RADIO CATEGORY WINNER

  • Evelyn Kpadeh Seagbeh, New Narratives, Liberia (First Position)
  • Mavis Offei Acheampong, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), Ghana (Second Position)

 

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Emmanuel Samani, TV3, Ghana (First Position)
  • Stanley Nii Blewu, TV3, Ghana (Second Position)

 

Here are the Winners from Southern African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of Malawi, H.E. MONICA CHAKWERA; The First Lady of Zambia, H.E. MUTINTA HICHILEMA; The First Lady of Zimbabwe, H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Melody Mupeta, Zambia Daily, Zambia (First Position)
  • Moses Mugugunyeki, The Standard, Zimbabwe, (Second Position)
  • Gresham Ngwira, Freelancer, Malawi (Second Position)
  • Sonja Smith, The Namibian, Print Category, Namibia (Third Position)

 

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Michael Magoronga, Zimpapers, Zimbabwe (First Position)
  • Munyaradzi Blessing Doma, ZimNow, Zimbabwe (Second Position)
  • Caroline Mapando, Africabrief, Malawi (Third Position)

 

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Charlotte Nambadja, Desert Radio, Radio Category, Namibia (First Position)
  • Britta Mpata Blantyre, Synod Radio, Malawi (First Position)
  • Sera Tamina, Radio Icengelo, Zambia (Second Position)
  • Monde Chaba, Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation, Zambia (Third Position)

 

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Mirriam Kayemba, CAMNET TV,  Zambia (First Position)
  • Alepher Kasongo, MBC News, Malawi (Second Position)

 

Here are the winners from East African Countries:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Marco Maduhu, Nipashe Newspaper, Tanzania (First Position)
  • Elizabeth Angira, MT Kenya Times and People Daily, Kenya (First Position)
  • Shaban Njia, Nipashe Newspaper, Tanzania (Second Position)

 

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Moraa Obiria, Nation Media Group, Kenya (First Position)
  • Isabella Maua Chemosit, The Times, Kenya (Second Position)
  • Aveline Kitomary, Tanzania Standard, Tanzania (Third Position)
  • Sophia Rukwaro, Black Hustlers TV, Kenya (Third Position)
  • Hudson Kuteesa, The New Times, Rwanda (Third Position)
  • Beatrice Philemon Mukocho, The Guardian Newspaper, Tanzania (Third Position)

 

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Caren Waraba Sisya, Citizen Radio, Kenya (First Position)
  • Olga Fadhil Lungala, Moshifm Radio, Tanzania (Second Position)
  • Adam Hhando, CG FM, Tanzania (Second Position)
  • Namale Hajara Shahista, CBS FM, Uganda (Third Position)
  • Angela Kezengwa, Citizen Radio, Kenya (Third Position)

 

We have 83 winners from 22 African countries in partnership with my dear sisters First Ladies of Africa and Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More than a Mother

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER

  • Walter Mwesigye, NTV Uganda, Uganda (First Position)
  • Elizabeth Atieno Ochieng, TV 47 KENYA, Kenya (Second Position)

 

Here are the winners from French Speaking African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of Burundi, H.E. ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Astère NDUWAMUNGU, www.LeRenouveau.bi, Burundi (Second Position)
  • Traore Brehima, The TOGUNA, Mali (Third Position)

 

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Mêmèdé Ambroisine Azododassi, Savoir News, Togo (First Position)
  • Jessy NZENGU, LualabamaProvince.com, DRC (First Position)
  • AYIBE Ablavi Ayélo, SAVOIR NEWS, Togo (Second Position)
  • Haburanimana Gérard, Agaseke.Bi, Burundi (Third Position)
  • JEANINE NYABENDA, Ijisho Web Site News TV, Burundi (Third Position)
  • Tognisse Pugilbert Yannick, DecryptageBenin.com, Benin (Third Position)

 

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Cyriaque NDAYISHIMIYE, Radio TV BUNTU, Burundi (First Position)
  • Edmond Niyonkur, Radio Ubuzima-FM, Burundi (Second Position)

 

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Bahwa Ferdinand, Le Journal.Africa, Burundi (First Position)
  • Amadou BELLO, Balafon Direct, Cameroon (Second Position)

 

Here are the winners from Portuguese Speaking African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of Cabo Verde, H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO:

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Ângelo Amaro Semedo, DW África, Cabo Verde (First Position)

 

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Maria José Teixeira Veiga Macedo, Rádio de Cabo Verde, Cabo Verde (First Position)

 

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Edineia Barros, TV Cabo Verde, Cabo Verde (First Position)

 

Winners of Merck Foundation “Diabetes & Hypertension” Media Recognition Awards 2023

Here are the winners from West African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of Ghana, H.E. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Jennifer Ambolley, Chronicle, Ghana (First Position)
  • Godwin Awuni Anafo, Daily Graphic, Ghana (Second Position)

 

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Odimegwu Onwumere, TheNigerianVoice.com, Nigeria (First Position)
  • Muniratu Akweley Issah, Ghana News Agency, Ghana (Second Position)
  • Cecilia Lagba Yada, Ghanaian Times, Ghana (Third Position)

 

MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER

  • Grace Hammoah Agyemang, TV3, Ghana (First Position)

 

Here are the Winners from Southern African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of Malawi, H.E. MONICA CHAKWERA; The First Lady of Zambia, H.E. MUTINTA HICHILEMA; The First Lady of Zimbabwe, H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Ed-Grant Ndoza, Malawi News Agency, Malawi (First Position)

 

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Maria Kandjungu, Unwrap, Online Category, Namibia (First Position)
  • Alain Kabinda, Daily News Agency, Zambia (Second Position)
  • Phillipa Mwazvita Chinhoi, Herald.co, Zimbabwe (Third Position)
  • Rosalia Hipondoka, DBS Blogposts, Online Category, Namibia (Third Position)

 

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Henry Haukeya, MBC Radio, Malawi (First Position)
  • Sylviah Chisi, Trans World Radio Malawi (TWR), Malawi (Second Position)
  • Martha Mzumara, Trans World Radio Malawi (TWR), Malawi (Third Position)

 

Here are the winners from East African Countries:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNER

  • Christina Stephen Mwakangale, Nipashe, Tanzania (First Position)

 

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Lucy John Bosco, Mwananchi Online, Tanzania (First Position)
  • Dorcas Wangira, BBC, Kenya (Second Position)
  • Veronica Romwald Mrema, Freelancer, Tanzania (Third Position)
  • Tulinagwe Alison Malopa, Gazetini, Tanzania (Third Position)

 

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Mildrine Nafula Sabwami, North Rift Radio FM, Kenya (First Position)
  • Mwanaisha Mohamed Makumbuli, Highlands FM Radio, Tanzania (Second Position)

 

Here are the winners from French Speaking African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of Burundi, H.E. ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE:

PRINT CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Moïse NKURUNZIZA, Le Renouveau du Burundi, Burundi (First Position)

 

ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Cassien Tribunal Aungane, Diplomacy & Development, DRC (First Position)
  • Akossiwa Agossivi YIBOKOU-MENSAH, SAVOIR NEWS, TOGO (Second Position)
  • Alphonse Julio GADA, GLOBAL NEWS BÉNIN, Benin (Third Position)
  • Petga Tonga Valgadine, LaVoixDuKoat.com, Cameroon, (Third Position)

 

RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS

  • Honorine NININAHAZWE, Burundi National Radio, Burundi (First Position)
  • Maurice TUNINAHAZIMANA, Radio TV Buntu, Burundi (Second Position)
  • Rémy RUKUNDO, TV BUNTU, Burundi (Third Position)

 

Here is the winner from Portuguese Speaking African Country in partnership with The First Lady of Mozambique, H.E. ISAURA FERRÃO NYUSI:

RADIO CATEGORY WINNER

  • Abdul Ibraimo, Radio of Mozambique, Mozambique (First Position)

 

Details of Merck Foundation Media Awards 2024:

1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition “More Than a Mother” Awards 2024

 

Theme for the awards: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Who can apply: Journalists from Print, Radio, Online, and Multimedia platforms from the following groups:

  1. Southern African Countries
  2. West African Countries
  3. East African Countries
  4. French Speaking African Countries
  5. Portuguese Speaking African Countries

 

Submission deadline: 30th September 2024.

2. Merck Foundation Media Recognition “Diabetes & Hypertension” Awards 2024

Theme for the awards: Promoting a healthy lifestyle and raising awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Who can apply: Journalists from Print, Radio, Online, and Multimedia platforms from the following groups:

  1. Southern African Countries
  2. West African Countries
  3. East African Countries
  4. French Speaking African Countries
  5. Portuguese Speaking African Countries
  6. Latin American Countries
  7. Asian Countries

 

Submission deadline: 30th October 2024.

All entries are to be submitted to submit@merck-foundation.com.

Kindly note, sending multiple relevant entries for both the categories will increase the chances of winning the award.

NDPC and Paradigm Initiative Host Workshop on Data Protection Act in Lagos

NDPC and Paradigm Initiative Host Workshop on Data Protection Act in Lagos

 

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), in collaboration with Paradigm Initiative, recently hosted a Validation Workshop focused on the Nigeria Data Protection Act General Application and Implementation Directive (NDP Act – GAID). The event aimed to facilitate discussions, examine key issues, and share insights on the GAID to ensure that the concerns of all stakeholders are addressed and best practices in data protection and privacy are promoted.

The workshop commenced with a keynote address from the National Commissioner/CEO, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, who praised the GAID committee members for their dedicated efforts in crafting the directive. Dr. Olatunji emphasized the significance of understanding the NDP Act to enhance Nigeria’s standing in the global privacy ecosystem and to position the Nigeria Data Protection framework as one of the leading models worldwide. He highlighted the progressive nature of the NDP Act and encouraged attendees to provide feedback, raise concerns, and engage in constructive criticism.

The workshop featured presentations that provided an overview of the NDP Act GAID, followed by in-depth deliberations between the Commission and stakeholders on various critical issues. Topics of discussion included data retention policies, funding, the role of resident Data Protection Officers (DPOs), audit filing requirements, and data storage limits.

To ensure comprehensive stakeholder engagement, the workshop will be extended to other regions of the country. Additional sessions are planned for Rivers State in the South and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja in the North, further promoting inclusive review and discussion of the GAID documents.

This initiative underscores the NDPC’s commitment to fostering a robust data protection ecosystem in Nigeria by engaging with stakeholders and promoting transparency and collaboration.

NDPC Engages in Global Knowledge Exchange and Networking Initiatives

NDPC Engages in Global Knowledge Exchange and Networking Initiatives

 

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has embarked on a series of knowledge exchange and global networking initiatives aimed at enhancing its data protection capabilities. As part of this initiative, Babatunde Bamigboye, Esq., Head of Legal, Enforcement, and Regulations (HLER) at the NDPC, is currently serving as an International Fellow of the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in Washington, D.C.

During his fellowship, Bamigboye has participated in several high-profile meetings and events. A notable highlight was his meeting with Professor Eduardo Bertoni, Director of the American University Centre for Human Rights and Humanitarian Law. This meeting provided an opportunity to explore potential collaborations in capacity building.

Bamigboye also delivered a speaking session at the FTC, coordinated by Mr. Michael Panzera from the FTC’s Office of International Affairs. His presentation, titled “Connecting the Dots in Data Privacy and Protection: Nigeria’s Emerging Market as a Case Study,” drew attention to the unique challenges and opportunities in Nigeria’s data privacy landscape.

Further enriching his experience, Bamigboye participated in the Privacy + Security Forum at George Washington University. This forum served as a platform for exchanging knowledge on global best practices in data privacy and protection.

In addition to these engagements, Bamigboye met with prominent industry and academic experts, including Mr. Eric J. Ellman, Senior Vice President of the Consumer Data Industry Association, Professor Anu Bradford of Columbia University, and Professor Daniel Solove of George Washington University. These interactions provided valuable insights and fostered connections that are expected to benefit the NDPC’s ongoing efforts in data protection and regulation.

This international fellowship and the associated activities underscore the NDPC’s commitment to aligning with global standards and enhancing its regulatory framework through international cooperation and knowledge exchange.

Governor C.C. Soludo Advocates for Digital Transformation at 2024 Local Government Service Commission Event

Governor C.C. Soludo Advocates for Digital Transformation at 2024 Local Government Service Commission Event

hello@bts.com.ng

 

 

C.C. Soludo, CFR, Governor of Anambra State, recently participated in the 2024 Local Government Service Commission event, themed “Value Rebirth through Digital Transformation.” The event highlighted the critical importance of digital innovation in enhancing civic engagement and public service.

Governor Soludo emphasized the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in advancing the transformation of the public service sector. “Rebuilding our public service goes beyond being a mere task; each of us plays a crucial role in advancing this necessary transformation. It was truly inspiring to witness the dedication and hard work of all those involved in guaranteeing the efficient operation of our local government system,” he remarked.

He further underscored the significance of Anambra’s role in the nation, stating, “Anambra shines brightly as the light of the nation, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that this light continues to shine brightly.”

The event served as a platform for stakeholders to discuss and strategize on the implementation of digital solutions to improve public service delivery, reinforcing Anambra’s commitment to leading the way in digital transformation and civic engagement.

 

NDPC Advances Data Privacy with Ethnos Cybersecurity’s Interactive Training

NDPC Advances Data Privacy with Ethnos Cybersecurity’s Interactive Training

 

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bolstering data privacy practices in Nigeria, Ethnos Cybersecurity, an indigenous firm renowned for its expertise in cybersecurity, has recently conducted an intensive training program for the technical team at the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) headquarters. This collaboration is a significant step towards enhancing the nation’s data protection capabilities.

The training session, led by Ethnos Cybersecurity, was designed to build capacity and empower the NDPC’s technical team with practical knowledge and skills necessary for effective data privacy implementation. The interactive and engaging nature of the training ensured that complex data protection regulations were tackled in an understandable and impactful manner.

The comprehensive training aimed to enhance the technical skills of NDPC staff in critical areas such as data loss prevention strategies, network and endpoint security, data classification and encryption, database analytics and intelligence, and incident management. These topics are vital for implementing robust technical and organizational measures within the data protection ecosystem.

At the conclusion of the two-day training, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, emphasized the alignment of the training with the Commission’s strategic roadmap, which prioritizes capacity building and awareness. Dr. Olatunji highlighted the importance of the training in enhancing the skill set of technical personnel and encouraged participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge, challenge themselves, and strive for excellence in the digital privacy landscape.

This initiative underscores the commitment of the NDPC and Ethanos Cyber Limited to fostering a knowledgeable and skilled workforce capable of advancing data protection standards in Nigeria.

Speaking on the success of the training, the CEO of Ethnos Cybersecurity expressed his satisfaction with the outcomes. “We tackled complex data protection regulations through a fun and interactive approach, making it a highly impactful training session. We believe that with the strides of NDPC under the visionary leadership of Vincent Olatunji, we will ensure that we do our best in capacity building,” he said.

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Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the head of the NDPC, also lauded the initiative. “We are pleased with this initiative; this private-public sector collaboration between Ethnos and the Nigerian Data Protection Commission is a welcome development. We always look forward to such capacity-building sessions. As an organization, the Nigerian Data Protection Commission is poised to be in tune with global best practices, and capacity building is part of this regulation,” stated Dr. Olatunji.

This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey towards strengthening its data protection framework. By leveraging the expertise of Ethnos Cybersecurity, the NDPC is better equipped to navigate the complexities of data privacy, ensuring that Nigeria remains aligned with international standards.

 

ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU

 

 

At the conclusion of the two-day training, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, emphasized the alignment of the training with the Commission’s strategic roadmap, which prioritizes capacity building and awareness. Dr. Olatunji highlighted the importance of the training in enhancing the skill set of technical personnel and encouraged participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge, challenge themselves, and strive for excellence in the digital privacy landscape.

Anambra State Leads Nigeria in Women’s Political Representation

Anambra State Leads Nigeria in Women’s Political Representation

 

Anambra State has emerged as a beacon of female political empowerment in Nigeria, with women holding significant positions across various levels of government. Currently, three out of the seven House of Representatives members from Anambra are women, underscoring the state’s commitment to gender equality in leadership.

Remarkably, Anambra is the only Nigerian state to have had a female governor. Additionally, in the previous administration, two out of the three senators representing the state were women, highlighting a continued trend of female political participation and leadership.

Under the leadership of Willie Obiano, the immediate past governor, the Anambra State House of Assembly had a female Speaker. This achievement stands in stark contrast to many other states in Nigeria, where women struggle to secure even a single legislative seat, let alone the Speaker position.

Anambra’s history of female political engagement dates back to 1999, when Senator Joy Emodi ran for governorship under the APP, one of the top two political parties at the time. Although she narrowly missed becoming governor, her candidacy marked a significant milestone in the state’s political landscape.

The state’s culture of strong female leadership is deeply rooted. Anambra women are known for their leadership qualities and resilience, and this has not diminished the status or respect of Anambra men.

From the banks of the River Niger to the Ulasi River in the east and the Omambala River in the northwest, Anambra women are renowned for their strength, nurturing capabilities, and unyielding resolve. They are a testament to the power and potential of female leadership in Nigeria.

#TABITHA #AKUABATA

Companies Face Penalties for Non-Compliance with Technology Transfer Agreements, Says NOTAP Chief3

Companies Face Penalties for Non-Compliance with Technology Transfer Agreements, Says NOTAP Chief3

Dr. Obiageli Amadiobi, the Director General of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), has issued a stern warning to companies failing to submit their technology transfer agreements for proper evaluation and registration. During a recent familiarization visit to several Information and Communication Technology (ICT) companies in Lagos, Dr. Amadiobi announced that such companies will soon face stiff penalties and prosecution.

Dr. Amadiobi highlighted that NOTAP’s primary mandate is to regulate the inflow of foreign technology through the registration of technology transfer agreements and to promote the development of locally motivated technologies. She expressed concern that some companies are circumventing this process by not registering their agreements, particularly those involving both hardware and software, thereby undermining the system.

“Records indicate that a significant percentage of companies in Nigeria rely on imported technologies worth millions of dollars without NOTAP registration, which is required by law. This practice shortchanges the Nigerian economy,” Dr. Amadiobi stated. She emphasized that NOTAP’s involvement during the technology negotiation stage is mandatory to ensure that Nigerian entrepreneurs secure appropriate technology under the best contractual terms.

The Director General affirmed that while NOTAP is committed to working with compliant companies, it will impose strict penalties on those flouting the rules. “In line with the renewed hope mantra of the present administration, no company will be allowed to avoid registration of their technology transfer agreements with NOTAP,” she declared.

Mr. Adewale Adeyipo, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Computer Warehouse Group (CWG), welcomed the new NOTAP leadership’s energy and enthusiasm. He expressed CWG’s willingness to collaborate with NOTAP to advance the ICT ecosystem. Mr. Adeyipo noted that NOTAP’s initiatives could generate over 2,000 jobs annually within the ICT sector, which is crucial for the nation’s global competitiveness.

He lamented that Nigeria has spent over $987.8 million on digital media subscriptions and downloads, funds that could have been retained within the country with better governmental support for local ICT operators through strategic policies.

In support, Mrs. Ola William, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft Nigeria Plc., praised NOTAP’s efforts in accelerating the ICT sector’s development. She reassured stakeholders that Microsoft remains committed to Nigeria’s ICT growth, debunking rumors of the company’s exit from the country.

This visit marks a significant step towards enforcing compliance and fostering cooperation between NOTAP and the ICT industry to enhance Nigeria’s technological advancement and economic growth.