NITDA Reaffirms Commitment to Integrity and Transparency with ACTU Inauguration

NITDA Reaffirms Commitment to Integrity and Transparency with ACTU Inauguration

 

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its dedication to promoting integrity and transparency in Nigeria’s digital transformation by inaugurating and swearing in reappointed members of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU).

The ceremony, held under the auspices of the NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, saw Mr. Sarafa Lawal, Director of Human Resource and Administration, representing the Director General. In his address, Mr. Lawal underscored the importance of upholding these core values, entrusting the newly appointed members with the vital responsibilities of preventing corruption and ensuring accountability within the agency.

The ACTU functions as an internal check against corrupt practices and unethical behavior in government agencies. Attendees included Mr. Olusegun Adigun, representing the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, and other esteemed representatives from the commission.

NITDA remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a culture of integrity and transparency, essential pillars for Nigeria’s digital transformation journey. The agency believes that by upholding these values, it can strengthen public trust, promote good governance, and drive sustainable development.

Ethnos Celebrates Strategic Partnership with Entrust Cybersecurity Institute

Ethnos Celebrates Strategic Partnership with Entrust Cybersecurity Institute

 

 

Ethnos, a leading indigenous cybersecurity solution provider headquartered in the upscale Victoria Island area of Lagos, Nigeria, proudly announces its recent partnership with Entrust Cybersecurity Institute, a globally recognized authority known as The Complete Resource Center for critical insights and education on security concepts through newsletters, explainer videos, and the Cybersecurity Institute Podcast.

Mr. Peter Ejiofor, CEO of Ethnos, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “At Ethnos, we are committed to offering world-class cybersecurity solutions to Nigeria. Our aim is to safeguard Nigerian businesses and their online assets with reputable global brands, which is why we chose to partner with Entrust.”

Highlighting the significance of the partnership, Ejiofor emphasized, “Our joint commitment to excellence strengthens our resolve. Today, we celebrate our longstanding partnership with Entrust, confident that together, we are destined for greater achievements.”

With over 50 years of experience in building trust at every stage, Entrust has established itself as a leader in the cybersecurity industry. From securing global connections to facilitating secure online experiences and protecting networks and devices, Entrust’s suite of authentication products has played a pivotal role in ensuring cybersecurity worldwide.

Commenting on the partnership, Entrust reiterated its dedication to creating secure environments, stating, “We have enabled secure connections across the globe, from Earth to outer space, ensuring reliable transactions and protected travel experiences. Our commitment to safeguarding networks and devices remains unwavering.”

Ejiofor concluded by highlighting Ethnos’s commitment to offering state-of-the-art information systems security solutions and building capacity within the Nigerian and global cybersecurity ecosystem.

 

Tinubu Directs MDAs to Patronise NASENI Technologies and Products

Tinubu Directs MDAs to Patronise NASENI Technologies and Products

 

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in the country to patronise technologies and products of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) to support Made-in-Nigeria goods and reduce importation.

The President represented by President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio made the declaration while commissioning NASENI-Portland Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Conversion, Filling, Reverse Engineering and Training Centre in Utako Abuja on Friday, May 31, 2024.

President Bola Tinubu who doubles as Chairman, NASENI Governing Board, said he is aware that the Agency is in collaboration with private sector players in the commercialisation of its products, noting that the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGi), which NASENI has keyed into is the way to tap into Nigeria’s abundant gas resources and to also attain cleaner energy.

Furthermore, he said the use of CNG-powered transportation would reduce pressure on foreign exchange, save money for vehicle owners by converting fuel-emitting vehicles to CNG. He equally lauded the Agency for working with private sector collaborators in the effort to establish lithium ore processing plant in the country to produce lithium battery for electric vehicles.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, said the NASENI-Portland CNG Conversion and Training Centre, a partnership between NASENI and Portland Gas Limited, is a state-of-the-art facility for the conversion of fossil fuel vehicles to CNG, a cleaner and more cost-effective alternative.

He said this facility can convert 15 cars every two hours, translating into an output of 2,700 conversions every month.  “Mr. President, by our calculations, if Nigeria is able to have 10 of this kind of facility in each of the 36 States and the FCT, we will be able to convert every vehicle in the country to CNG within one year”, he said.

He urged the President to give NASENI approval to convert all the vehicles in the State House fleet to CNG. “We are asking for your approval to do this, and showcase our capabilities. Second, we are offering to carry out CNG conversions for every Ministry, Department and Agency of the Federal Government at a cost.

Equally, to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Halilu said NASENI is willing to make available to its contractors NASENI’S CNG generators, for the purpose of test-running the lighting project on Bill Clinton Drive (the highway leading to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport) to encourage them to purchase the Agency’s streetlights for the project.

Good will messages poured in from the Minister of Petroleum (Gas), Epkerikpo Ekpo; Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi; Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Uche Nnaji; Chairman, Senate Committee on NASENI, Senator Ezenwa Francis Onyewuchi; and Chairman, House Committee on NASENI, Hon. Taofik Ajilesoro.

The NASENI-Portland CNG Conversion and Training Centre equipped with the latest technology and staffed with  trained professionals to ensure efficient and safe conversions, is aimed at building local capacity and domestication of CNG technology.

It offers comprehensive training programmes for technicians, engineers, and other stakeholders, fostering domestication of expertise in CNG systems and promoting the adoption of green energy solutions across the nation.

The NASENI initiative is expected to significantly reduce vehicular emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment. Additionally, the adoption of CNG will offer economic benefits by reducing fuel costs for consumers and creating new job opportunities and technical expertise in the Nigeria’s green energy sector.

 

Invest in Oil Palm: A Path to Generational Wealth with JOE-T AGRO EMPIRE

Invest in Oil Palm: A Path to Generational Wealth with JOE-T AGRO EMPIRE

 

As global demand for oil palm surges, savvy investors are turning to this crop to secure substantial returns and build generational wealth. JOE-T AGRO EMPIRE is at the forefront of this investment opportunity, offering comprehensive support for those looking to capitalize on the lucrative oil palm market.

Historically, oil palm has been a cornerstone of wealth creation in Nigeria, as exemplified by Chief Sir Louis Odumegwu Ojukwu, Nigeria’s first billionaire from the Eastern region, who built his fortune through oil palm investments. Today, with innovative uses and growing global demand, oil palm investors are poised to achieve multi-billionaire status.

Despite Nigeria’s potential, the country currently does not produce enough oil palm to meet its own needs, spending over $500 million annually on imports. This shortfall presents a prime opportunity for domestic production to thrive.

JOE-T AGRO EMPIRE offers a detailed investment plan for oil palm cultivation using 200 Hybrid Tenera oil palm trees. The initial cost of purchasing and planting these trees is estimated at ₦350,000, which includes protection wire. Maintenance expenses, including fertilizer and ring-weeding, are projected at ₦300,000 until the trees reach the fruiting stage.

Once mature, a 200-stand plantation of verified Hybrid Tenera oil palm can yield an annual return on investment (ROI) of at least ₦5 million for the next 40-50 years. Additionally, by-products such as palm kernels, palm fronds, and palm kernel shells can generate up to ₦2 million annually.

Investors can also inter-plant annual crops such as Giant plantain, Cavendish bananas, and Cayenne pineapples to generate additional income while waiting for the oil palm trees to mature, further increasing the value of their farmland.

JOE-T AGRO EMPIRE provides extensive support to investors, including access to advanced machinery like oil palm harvesters and extractors. We ensure a ready market for any quantity produced, guaranteeing our clients and investors a worthwhile venture.

For more information or to start your investment journey in oil palm, contact us at 08122237895 (call/WhatsApp). Our services are available nationwide, with our oil palm nursery located in Oluku, Benin, and a temporary depot in Enugu.

 

Premier Retail Property Partners LLP commissions Koka Junction Mall in Asaba, Delta State

Premier Retail Property Partners LLP commissions Koka Junction Mall in Asaba, Delta State
  Premier Retail Property Partners LLP, developers of a topnotch state-of-the-art retail and entertainment complex, has commissioned Koka Junction Mall along the popular and ever-busy Asaba-Onitsha expressway on June 1, 2024. This event marks a significant milestone in the commercial and social landscape of Asaba, the Delta State capital.
Koka Junction Mall is set to revolutionize the shopping experience in Asaba and its environs with its modern design and extensive range of retail options. The mall houses international and local brands, providing a diverse array of fashion, electronics, home goods, and more. Additionally, the mall boasts a variety of dining options, from quick-service eateries to upscale restaurants, catering to all tastes and preferences.
These shopping outlets include- Marketsquare Supermarket, Kilimanjaro Restaurant, Five Star Restaurant, Calyx Fast Food, Kiligrill, Black and White Saloon, Twice as Much, Essenza, NettPharmacy, Oraimo, Royalline Technologies, Hareem Instabul, Maybrands, Perfect Trust, and Pizza Jungle, amongst others.
This vibrant neighbourhood and destination mall offer a unique blend of convenience, variety, and excitement, making it the go-to hub for shoppers from near and far who value a serene but secure environment.
While speaking at the commissioning, the representative of Premier Retail Property Partners LLP Engr. Charles Odita, said, “We are excited to commission the Koka Mall in a grand way, and this reinforces our commitment to developing world-class retail commercial spaces for thriving retail businesses across the country, thus creating the right ambiance for the purchase of quality retail products to Nigerians in the most comfortable and exciting environment.”
He said, “The commissioning of Koka Mall is not just about retail; it represents a significant boost to the local economy. We are excited to increase the footprint of these various brands in the mall pan Nigeria. This development aligns with Delta State’s broader economic strategy to attract investment, foster local enterprise, and enhance the quality of life for its residents.”
Premier Retail Property Partners LLP, owned by a group of investors, has demonstrated its commitment to the growth of the retail sector in Nigeria by making consumers access goods and services in the state and Nigeria
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in general. The organization aims to build more malls across Nigeria over the years and invites other investors to join in this journey.
 
About Koka Mall
Koka Mall is developed by Premier Retail Property Partners LLP, developers of topnotch state-of-the-art retail and entertainment complex, dedicated to creating world-class commercial spaces in Nigeria. The mall is strategically located at the heart of Asaba, providing easy access to residents and visitors alike.
 

President of the Christian Tourism Practitioner’s Association of Nigeria, Isreal Kristilere, assaulted by the Egyptian Police.

President of the Christian Tourism Practitioner’s Association of Nigeria, Isreal Kristilere, assaulted by the Egyptian Police.

The President of the Christian Tourism Practitioner’s Association of Nigeria (CTPAN), the umbrella body of all Christian Pilgrimage Operators in Nigeria, and the CEO of Oasis of Faith Intercontinental Ltd, a Private Christian Pilgrimage Company, Revd Dr Israel Kristilere, has called out the Egyptian Police following the assault he experienced during his stopover alongside other travellers at the Cairo International Airport on April 30, 2024.

According to Kristilere, also the Senior Pastor of Shepherdhill Baptist Church, Obanikoro, Lagos, he was travelling alongside 28 other pilgrims to Amman and took an Egyptian Air from Lagos. On getting to Egypt for their 4-hour stopover, they were about to board another flight when the Egyptian Police called him to follow them to their office. Then, he was told that he had sexually assaulted a lady at the airport.

He explained that he had never set his eyes on her; however, he apologized as he was requested to do. He said, “He told the lady that he did not know her, and if it was a missing identity, he was sorry, but he did not commit the offence.” Thereafter, they offered a solution and told him to sign a document in Arabic. But he insisted on having the document translated into English.

He objected, and he was threatened that he would miss his flight and charged to court. As the heated conversation continued, he wrote I do not on the document. The desk manager of the airport came in and spoke to them, and this led to his release.

On getting to the aircraft, he discovered that all the co-travellers refused to enter the plane, leading to his speedy release from these officers.

Dr Kristilere said he is calling out the Egyptian Police because he was traumatized as a result of their unruly attitude towards him.

He noted that this is one of the many syndicates in various airports across Africa, and it will be essential to alert the Nigerian government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) and travellers to be aware of another antic in the hands of the Egyptian Police.

Blood Is Thicker Than Water: I Am Blessed to Have Tony Elumelu as My Brother and Friend,” Writes Ndudi Elumelu

Blood Is Thicker Than Water: I Am Blessed to Have Tony Elumelu as My Brother and Friend,” Writes Ndudi Elumelu

 

In a heartfelt post on his X platform, Ndudi Godwin Elumelu, the Nigerian politician representing Aniocha and Oshimili federal constituency in the House of Representatives and currently serving as the Minority Leader, shared his profound admiration and gratitude for his elder brother, Tony Elumelu, the renowned businessman and philanthropist.

Ndudi Elumelu expressed how fortunate he feels to have Tony not just as a brother, but also as a friend and mentor. He highlighted the qualities that make Tony Elumelu stand out, particularly his humility and submissiveness, which he believes are essential keys to achievements and growth.

“Blood is thicker than water. I am blessed to have Tony Elumelu as my brother and friend,” Ndudi wrote. “His humility and submissiveness are exemplary, and they play a crucial role in his numerous achievements and contributions to society.”

The bond between the Elumelu brothers is evident, not only in their personal interactions but also in their professional endeavors. Tony Elumelu, known for his role as the Chairman of Heirs Holdings, the United Bank for Africa, and the founder of The Tony Elumelu Foundation, has been a significant influence and source of inspiration for Ndudi.

Their strong family ties and mutual respect have undoubtedly played a part in their individual and collective successes. Ndudi’s public acknowledgment of his brother’s influence is a testament to the powerful bond they share, a bond that transcends their professional achievements and speaks volumes about their personal connection.

As both brothers continue to make impactful contributions in their respective fields, Ndudi’s tribute serves as a reminder of the importance of family support and the values of humility and dedication that drive success.

17-Year-Old Nigerian Prodigy, Emmanuella Ilok, Secures Full Scholarships to Top U.S. Universities

17-Year-Old Nigerian Prodigy, Emmanuella Ilok, Secures Full Scholarships to Top U.S. Universities

 

Nigeria proudly celebrates the exceptional achievements of Emmanuella Ilok, a brilliant 17-year-old who has received full scholarships to study Software Engineering at some of the world’s most prestigious universities: Stanford, MIT, Yale, UPenn, Princeton, and Columbia University.

Emmanuella’s remarkable academic prowess has already garnered national recognition. She was awarded the title of the country’s best in the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) in Nigeria by the British Council, a testament to her dedication and exceptional intellect.

Adding to her accolades, Emmanuella developed a groundbreaking software that utilizes Machine Learning to detect breast cancer in women, achieving an impressive 91% detection accuracy. This innovative software not only highlights her technical skills but also her commitment to using technology to address critical health issues.

“Emmanuella’s achievements are a beacon of hope and pride for Nigeria,” said [Name], [Title], [Organization]. “Her dedication to academic excellence and her innovative contributions to healthcare technology are truly inspiring.”

As Emmanuella embarks on this new chapter at one of these esteemed institutions, Nigeria looks forward to witnessing her continued success and the positive impact she will undoubtedly make on the world stage.

Let us celebrate this young genius whose remarkable achievements are making Nigeria proud.

Federal Government Authorizes Institute of Information Management to Certify Data Protection Professionals in Nigeria

Federal Government Authorizes Institute of Information Management to Certify Data Protection Professionals in Nigeria

 

The Federal Government through the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has granted a licence to the Institute of Information Management (IIM) to conduct examinations and certify data protection professionals for global competitiveness.

The National Commissioner of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, who said this on Monday while presenting licence to IIM in Abuja, said granting of the licence was part of the commission’s measures to implement Executive Order 003 and 005.

Olatunji added that certifying data protection professionals in the country would reduce capital flight, create over 500,000 jobs in the sector, and encourage more people to be certified.

Promoting local content

While a few Nigerians with expertise in data protection had their training and certification abroad, Olatunji said having an institute to train and certify Nigerians locally would boost local content in the sector.

“We are trying to ensure the implementation of Executive Orders 003 and 005 to promote local content in Nigeria. Most of us who are certified data protection officers have international certifications; we paid some dollars to write exams as well as maintain the certificates. We are trying to domesticate this in Nigeria by having a national certification process” Olatunji said.

The NDPC National Commissioner said that with the size of Nigeria’s population, the country needs over 500,000 certified data protection officers. And if prospective candidates are to pay for the certifying examination in dollars, it will lead to capital flight.

Expansion to Africa

Olatunji also said that the commission is considering adopting the licensing across Africa. According to him, the Commission is working towards having a pan-African initiative, whereby data professionals have the national certification that is being offered in Nigeria and can also practice in any part of Africa.

“It is a way of creating jobs for our people, reducing capital flight, and developing global human capital in the data protection ecosystem” Olatunji said. He explained the Commission have also gone further to develop the training model which is unique to the organization and will be used by trainers in Nigeria.

He added that the licensing would also create jobs for already licensed Data Protection Compliance Organisations (DPCOs), who would be accredited to train prospective professionals to sit for data protection examinations. According to him, the national data protection certification will be a historic legacy that will transcend administrations and meet global standards.

Speaking on the licence, the President of the Institute of Information Management, Dr. Oyedokun Oyewole, recalled that the certification process commenced in 2021.
He said the licence would bridge the gap in the data protection ecosystem. Oyewole assured Nigerians of the institute’s commitment to be the best in the education system of data protection in the country.

MICHAEL TANSI MEMORIAL SECONDARY SCHOOL AGULERI ANAMBRA STATE WINS NATIONAL QUIZ COMPETITION

MICHAEL TANSI MEMORIAL SECONDARY SCHOOL AGULERI ANAMBRA STATE WINS NATIONAL QUIZ COMPETITION

 

By Dr Innocent Chidumebi Okonkwo.

Michael Tansi Memorial secondary school Aguleri, Anambra State has emerged the overall winner of the National Quiz and Debate Championship organized by the United Organization for Education and sports Development Nigeria.

The first stage of the competition involved all secondary schools in Nigeria and some were eliminated at the preliminary stage.

The second stage quiz involved 50 schools that scaled through the preliminary stage and questions were from Mathematics, Science General Studies and General Debate.

The Anambra school which is located in Aguleri defeated other 10 schools that made it to the final stage with 208 points to cart home the first prize.

The school was represented by Agbo Daniel, Iloakasia Alexander, Okeke Jennifer, Okagbue Cyprain, Dilibe Felicitas Chiemerie and others while their coaches are Mbam Abraham and Aunty Felicia.

The Tansi students were presented with plagues and the star prize.

The second and third positions went to Marta Amabis Secondary School Umuoji Anambra State with 199 points and John Ikwensi Memorial Grammar school Emene Enugu state with 195 points.

Other positions:

4th- Federal science and Technical college Uromi Delta state 194 points.

5th position -Arch Bishop Tech College Ogidi Anambra State with 190 points.

6th position – St Patrick’s secondary school Awka Anambra State 187 points.

7th position -St James Chatan Secondary School Owerri Imo State with 174 points.

8th position -Model Comprehensive Secondary School Iyi Oji River Enugu state with 171 points.

Others are:
Grace High School Gbagada Lagos state,
Jesson Jetha Secondary School Owerri Imo State,
Anglican Grammar school Achi Oji River Enugu State,
Better Tomorrow international college Ujevwu Ondo State.

Receiving the champions, the First Lady of Anambra State, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, said the Anambra students showcased their exceptional skills and knowledge, she expressed her pride in the state’s education sector, highlighting the investments and reforms made by Soludo’s administration.

“Excellence is, undoubtedly, made in Anambra State,” she said, emphasizing the importance of providing every child in Anambra State with a platform to reach their full potential.

The First Lady’s statement reflects the state’s commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a competitive spirit among its students.

“With the recent victory, Anambra State continues to demonstrate its dedication to excellence in education”. The First Lady concluded her speech with a powerful affirmation, “Anambra is winning. The Solution is Here!”