Software Industry Gears Up for TestNigeria 2.0 Conference

Software Industry Gears Up for TestNigeria 2.0 Conference

…Nigeria’s premier conference on Software Testing

TestNigeria Conference, Nigeria’s premier conference on Software Testing, is back in Lagos for the second edition.

Scheduled for Radisson Blu Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, will be abuzz with excitement on November 9th, 2023, as software testing experts, industry leaders, and technology enthusiasts will gather for the highly anticipated TestNigeria 2.0 Conference.

Organised by the Nigerian Software Testing Qualification Board (NGSTQB), this event will be a significant milestone in the Nigerian tech landscape, setting the stage for discussions on cutting-edge advancements and trends in software testing.

Building on the successes of the maiden edition, the TestNigeria 2.0 Conference will provide a comprehensive platform for knowledge exchange, idea sharing, and fostering collaboration among professionals dedicated to ensuring the quality, reliability, and security of software applications, said Mr Boye Dare, President of NGSTQB.

“The event will be attended by participants from across Nigeria and beyond, including Mr. Olivier Denoo, the Vice President of the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB®) and other prominent figures in the global software testing community.

“With the theme, ‘Software Testing: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities’, the conference will showcase a series of enlightening sessions and panel discussions that delved into the evolving landscape of software testing”, Mr. Dare said.

According to him, renowned experts will deliver insights into Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities in Nigeria to enhance the testing process and elevate software quality in the country.

The conference will be opened with a captivating keynote address by an industry trailblazer, who will emphasise the critical role software testing plays in the era of rapid technological advancement.

The speaker’s profound insights are bound to resonate with attendees, thus highlighting the need for embracing innovation and collaboration to stay ahead in this dynamic field.

“The Nigerian Software Testing Qualification Board is dedicated to promoting excellence in software testing across the nation. The NQSTQB’s tireless commitment to nurturing a community of skilled professionals and raising the standards of software testing will be lauded by both speakers and attendees”.

He said the conference’s diverse agenda includes discussions on various aspects of software testing, ranging from test automation and security testing to performance testing and the integration of artificial intelligence.

“Technical sessions will be providing attendees with hands-on opportunities to learn and apply advanced testing techniques, fostering a culture of practical learning.

“The TestNigeria 2.0 Conference will also serve as a vibrant networking platform, encouraging participants to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas. The interactive atmosphere will facilitate meaningful conversations and the formation of lasting professional relationships.

At TestNigeria 2.0, participants will be left with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm to drive innovation in their respective roles. The TestNigeria 2.0 Conference, powered by the Nigerian Software Testing Qualification Board, will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter future in software testing”.

Mr Dare added that in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, events like TestNigeria 2.0 play a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry.

“The knowledge shared and connections made at the conference are bound to catalyse positive changes, not just in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem but also on a global scale. With the commitment and passion that will be displayed at this event, the software testing community is well-equipped to rise to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead”.

For participation, visit https://ngstqb.ng/conference to register for TestNigeria 2.0

MediaTek Collaborates With Airtel Nigeria To Enhance Mobile Connectivity in Nigeria

MediaTek Collaborates With Airtel Nigeria To Enhance Mobile Connectivity in Nigeria

 

MediaTek, a leading global fabless semiconductor company that powers nearly 2 billion connected devices annually, has collaborated with Airtel Nigeria, a leading telecommunications service provider. The collaboration aims to drive technological advancements and enhance mobile connectivity nationwide and will see the integration of hundreds of millions of individuals into the digital economy, consequently advancing mobile connectivity throughout Nigeria.

The collaboration highlights  MediaTek’s T750-powered Customer Premises Equipment (CPE), a groundbreaking technology that enhances internet connectivity. This advancement allows users to access high-speed 5G networks from the comfort of their homes, opening doors to remote work, gaming, online education, and entertainment streaming like never before.

The T750 offers remarkable out-of-the-box 5G speeds, reaching up to an impressive 4.7Gbps. It competes with or surpasses the performance of traditional fixed-line services, harnessing existing cellular infrastructure while avoiding the expenses associated with cable or fiber installation.

“Our collaboration with Airtel Nigeria focuses on enhancing high-speed internet access through advanced chipsets, offering a wider range of premium and flagship devices while supporting the transition from feature phones to smartphones, and exploring innovative AI-IoT solutions. This collaboration will drive digital inclusion, revolutionize connectivity in Nigeria, and contribute to sustainable development goals.” Said Rami Osman, Director for Corporate Sales and Marketing, MediaTek Middle East and Africa. 

Ismail Adeshina, Director, Marketing at Airtel Nigeria, emphasized the importance of the collaboration with MediaTek and how it will provide affordable connectivity to Nigerians. He stated, “Our commitment to innovation is evident through our early adoption of 5G technology. We’re proactively investing in this technology to improve connectivity, to tackle coverage and cost challenges, and make 5G devices more accessible across Nigeria”.

MediaTek powers globally recognized brands and remains dedicated to providing state-of-the-art innovations through its latest products and solutions. These offerings span a diverse range, including smartphones, smart devices, automotive technology, satellite connectivity solutions, and next-generation wearables.

MediaTek’s product portfolio includes MediaTek Dimensity for 5G smartphones, MediaTek HelioG series for 4G gaming smartphones, MediaTek Kompanio for arm-based Chromebooks, MediaTek Pentonic for Smart TV technologies, MediaTek Genio for Internet of Things applications, MediaTek Filogic for advanced Wi-Fi 6/6E & Wi-Fi 7 solutions, and MediaTek Dimensity Auto for cutting-edge automotive technologies, among others.

LG’s 2023 TV Lineup Wows Consumers With Exceptional Picture Quality and Immersive Sound

LG’s 2023 TV Lineup Wows Consumers With Exceptional Picture Quality and Immersive Sound

 

 

LG Electronics (LG) unveiled its new television lineup for 2023, which boasts a range of technological advancements designed to deliver superior picture quality, sound performance, and usability. This lineup is headlined by its most advanced range of OLED TVs yet, the OLED evo C3. With premium self-lit picture quality, powerful image processing technologies, and an enhanced webOS platform offering even more smart features and services, the company’s latest OLED TVs elevate viewing experiences as only LG OLED can.

 

It’s been 10 years since LG first released OLED, and in that time, much has changed. What’s new for 2023’s big TVs, and is it worth getting excited about? It might be difficult to believe, but TVs are celebrating a bit of an anniversary this year as OLED turns ten.

 

“At LG, we are committed to continuous innovation across our home entertainment products, and our 2023 TV range is no exception. And as our technologies have evolved, so has the role of the TV in Nigerian homes,” said Choongbae Seok, General Manager, TV Division, LG Electronics West African Operations.

 

“Whether it be the hub where people gather for the latest sporting match, game, or movie, or a statement piece positioned to impress invited guests, this year we are providing a television for every consumer,” he said.

 

The C3 OLED evo provides higher brightness and color accuracy, as well as amazing clarity and detail, thanks to the precision and performance of LG OLED evo technology and the new α9 AI Processor Gen6. It comes in 83, 77, and 65-inch sizes. The other lineup includes the QNED 81 Series (75”, 65″); the Nano 77 Series (75″, 65″, 55″); and the UHD UR Series (75”, 65″, 55″, 50″). LG TVs now feature a slimmer design and minimal bezel that complement your home interior. Upgrade your viewing experience to enjoy vivid colors and breathtaking detail in real 4K.

 

LG continues to leverage its technological leadership, not just to create products and services for a better life. 2023 LG OLED TVs are designed to be kinder to the environment, from production all the way through to disposal, creating sustainable cycles. LG OLED TVs have no backlighting unit, meaning each TV requires fewer materials to produce than a conventional LED TV. They also employ many components made from recycled plastics and are even shipped in eco-packaging made from recyclable materials and featuring single-color printing. Easier on viewers’ eyes, LG’s 2023 model OLED TV has been certified low-blue-light by TÜV Rheinland and flicker-free by UL Solutions.

 

Outlets such as CNET highlighted the OLED C3, saying, “It sets the standard for high-end TV picture quality.” (CNET, 06/23)

 

For TechRadar, the LG OLED C3 arrives with new HDR-improving picture processing, a pleasing look, a smart TV interface overhaul, and a wealth of features that will appeal to both gamers and movie fans. “LG has delivered another winner with the C3 OLED,” the review noted. (TechRadar, 03/2023)

 

The LG range of 2023 TVs comprises the following:

 

Faster HDMI switching

The new LG OLED TV models support a wide range of HDMI 2.1a-compatible features, with 4 ports available on the C3 models again. They are also the first TVs to be certified by the HDMI organization for the recently announced Quick Media Switching VRR (QMS-VRR). QMS-VRR eliminates the momentary black screen when switching between content from different sources connected via the TV’s HDMI 2.1a-compatible ports. This is only available when using HDMI 2.1 QMS VRR-certified source devices.

 

Gaming remains a focus

For the ultimate gaming experience, LG OLED and QNED TVs feature a 0.1 ms response time, low input lag, and up to four HDMI 2.1a-compatible ports. LG OLED TVs are also equipped with Game Optimizer, which allows users to quickly select and switch between game-related features such as game genre display presets. Settings for Nvidia G-Sync, FreeSync Premium, and variable refresh rate (VRR) are also easily accessible through the Game Optimizer.

 

Improved picture and sound quality

The latest processor in the Alpha series uses LG’s advanced AI-powered deep learning technology to ensure excellent picture and sound quality. AI Picture Pro offers improved upscaling for greater clarity, and improved dynamic tone mapping helps bring out depth and detail in every image. AI Picture Pro also includes image processing technology that recognizes and refines objects or faces to have more lifelike HDR quality. In addition, AI Sound Pro ensures that viewers can immerse themselves even more in what is happening on screen by delivering virtual 9.1.2 surround sound through the TV’s built-in speaker system.

 

Improved webOS and software

This year’s models are equipped with the latest webOS version and include the redesigned All New Home user interface, which offers a wealth of personalization options and more comfort for an even better user experience. The new Quick Cards give users easy access to the content and services they use most, grouped into logical categories such as home office, gaming, music, and sports. Based on their TV behavior and viewing habits, the more advanced webOS ensures that consumers easily receive personalized recommendations tailored to their preferences.

 

The complexity of data sovereignty in a multi-polar world

The complexity of data sovereignty in a multi-polar world

 

 

The importance of data sovereignty and security creates complexity in a world where sharing such information across borders generates huge social and economic benefits, says Andrew Cruise, Managing Director of Routed, a local VMware Cloud Verified provider and VMware Principal Partner.

 

It is clear that in the digital age, data sovereignty is becoming more important, as data is increasingly generated and collected through a variety of channels, including e-commerce, social media platforms and mobile devices.

 

Essentially, data sovereignty is a phrase that describes the principle that a country has the authority and right to govern and control the data generated within its borders. Thus, the concept of data sovereignty gives governments the power to regulate the collection, storage, processing, and distribution of any data that originates within its borders.

 

Obviously, this will have an impact on cross-border data flows and international data-sharing agreements. Remember that different countries adopt different data sovereignty policies, but broadly they are about demanding that data generated within the country be kept within the borders for security or regulatory purposes.

 

Complicating the situation is the recognition that data access and the sharing of such information across borders generates social and economic benefits of somewhere between 2.5% and 4% of GDP. In addition, data transfers of this nature also enable a wide variety of other critical activities, such as the sharing of essential information related to crime prevention, scientific research and innovation, anti-fraud and money-laundering activities, disaster management and even climate change.

 

It’s worth paying close attention to data sovereignty, not only from the point of view of safeguarding private data, but also to avoid liability issues related to legal violations associated with a failure to protect personal information.

 

A major reason for the complexity around data sovereignty is that the laws governing it vary greatly from country to country, as do cloud service providers’ agreements concerning privacy policies and user rights. Therefore, organisations operating across multiple countries or regions must understand each country’s regulations to comply with all applicable laws.

 

In fact, ultimately, there are multiple differing definitions of exactly what constitutes ‘data sovereignty’, and it is vital that we obtain some form of industry-wide collaboration in defining and upholding the principles of data sovereignty.

 

Recognising the complexities of data sovereignty, VMware notes that the answer lies in sovereign cloud deployment, as this is an option that is inherently more secure and offers better data integrity and data assurance.

 

To this end, VMware is making efforts to promote Sovereign Cloud Partnerships and the criteria they use to select providers, but at the same time, it seeks to limit the number of providers in each region – thus ensuring the rarity of the ‘cloud sovereignty’ badge.

 

Among VMware’s requirements are for such service providers to have locally sited data centres, and in terms of data security, for them to be ISO and payment card industry data security standard (PCI-DSS) compliant – both areas where Routed has comfortably met requirements.

 

We already segregate management networks from production networks, storage traffic from a host strategy, and even separate host traffic from public-facing web traffic. In addition, we have multi-factor authentication (MFA) in place and have been leveraging the principle of least access from the very beginning. We are firm believers in the principle that, if you do things properly from day one, you don’t leave any doors open. Thus Routed has been highly conscious of implementing security best practices on its infrastructure from the outset.

 

Moreover, we understand that while we may have secured our back end as best as we can, poor security measures further down the value chain, like leaving ports open on firewalls, are difficult to mitigate against. However, when it comes to issues of data resilience and data integrity, our business has always had backup and replication products available to assist in a disaster recovery scenario.

 

Ultimately, there’s no one true definition of what data sovereignty is. But it will always entail data locality within sovereign borders, data security and data integrity. Routed is a South African company born and bred and has always been a local business. Of course, we may do business outside of South Africa, but our data centres are located inside South Africa. We’re not using this as a springboard to scale elsewhere in the world, which enables us to be the best local provider of our services – and data security, integrity and performance are a crucial part of that.

Expand North Star Sheds Light on Sustainable Sports as the Show Entered Final Day

Expand North Star Sheds Light on Sustainable Sports as the Show Entered Final Day

 

Professional rally driver Christina Gutierrez highlights how sports can leave a positive impact on the environment

Spotlight Africa discusses the investment ecosystem and tremendous market potential in the continent

Dubai, UAE, October 18, 2023:  Sustainability is a central theme across Expand North Star as the UAE builds on the momentum of COP28. In association with GITEX Impact, Expand North Star is hosting the Global Investment Forum and the NetZero Venture Capital Forum at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The events will help catalyze growth in ESG funding, with investors expected to inject $1.5-2 trillion annually into climate tech and cleantech startups by 2025.

Inspiring Action on the Environment Through Sports

Extreme E is an FIA-sanctioned international off-road racing series that uses electric SUVs to race in remote parts of the world, such as the Saudi Arabian desert or the Arctic. Racing locations are chosen to raise awareness for some aspects of climate change. Extreme E also maintains a “Legacy Programme” to provide social and environmental support for those locations.

Christina Gutiérrez is one of its most talented drivers on the Extreme E circuit and, in 2021, became the third woman to stand on a Dakar Rally podium after winning a stage in 2021. She discussed how sports can make an impact on the planet during a fireside chat, themed “Future of sports: making an impact on the planet.”

Gutiérrez stressed that sports can be harnessed for the greater good. She is heavily involved in legacy programs during race weeks. Her past work has involved teaching innovative and sustainable approaches to building education infrastructure, such as constructing eco-friendly school walls. “By implementing these initiatives, we hope to leave a positive mark on the environment and inspire confidence and responsibility among community members,” she added.

Gutiérrez encouraged women to break stereotypes and pursue their ambitions with determination by using platforms such as sports to educate and inspire their followers.

Africa Rising

Dubai World Trade Center, through its subsidiary KAOUN International, launched GITEX AFRICA this year to explore the massive opportunities in the continent’s tech industry. The event makes a remarkable return in 2024 with a thrilling lineup that promises to drive digital transformation across industries. Building on the inaugural event’s success in May, GITEX AFRICA 2024 introduces three new show profiles: digital health, smart manufacturing and agritech, underscoring Africa’s growing importance in the global tech landscape.

In a Spotlight Africa stream, Expand North Star hosted a panel discussion on “Ecosystem of Investing in Africa.” Expert speakers at the panel, Fernando Cabral, Chief Venture Growth, Djassi Africa, Mark Kleyner, Co-Founder and Programs Director, Dream VC, Yassine Laghzioui, CEO, UM6P Ventures and Monica Shupikai Simmons, Head of Africa, ICON Corporate Finance shared insights on the African’s startup ecosystem.

They noted that East and West Africa have set a precedent in terms of cultivating a healthy startup ecosystem, with countries such as Angola and Mozambique now catching up. The speakers observed that these emerging countries could benefit from the experiences of the other more developed ecosystems while bringing their own perspectives to the African tech community.

The African startup ecosystem is one of the most promising in the world with huge potential, with the continent’s 1.4 billion-strong market brimming with opportunities to be explored, the audience heard. The panellists also highlighted the global nature of the African startup scene, with more than 70 percent of VC investments in Africa coming from international investors.

Hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy and organized by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), Expand North Star marked its largest-ever edition this year at its new Dubai Harbour venue. The landmark global gathering welcomed over 1,800 startups across GITEX Global and Expand North Star from more than 100 countries and around 1,000 investors, with a combined total of over US$ 1 trillion under management.

BRI: NASENI, Chinese Companies Sign MoUs, Receives Letters Of Intent For $bn Investments 

BRI: NASENI, Chinese Companies Sign MoUs, Receives Letters Of Intent For $bn Investments 

 

 

At a ceremony attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima (GCON) on Thursday, October 19, 2023, on the sidelines of the third Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum in Beijing, China, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and new Chinese partners signed three (3) memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) for new projects valued at $2 billion.

 

The three Chinese companies that signed MoUs to partner with NASENI and invest in Nigeria include Shanghai Launch Automotive Technical Co Ltd – an MOU to establish a new energy automobile facility for the production of new energy electric vehicles.

 

Others are: China Great Wall Industry Corporation- an MOU for the turnkey delivery of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) assembly line projects; and Newway Power Technology Company Ltd – an MOU for the transfer of technology on lithium batteries, electric vehicles and allied technologies.

 

In addition to the MOUs, 10 Chinese firms also presented Letters of Intent to the Vice President, indicating strong interest in partnering with NASENI to invest in and develop various technology and industrial innovation projects, collectively valued at $4 billion, covering energy (solar, natural gas, microgrids), vehicle production, training and technology transfer, drone technology, and the development of a new industrial park.

 

Speaking at the ceremony, Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Halilu, who signed the agreements on behalf of NASENI, said: “This is a very important day for us at the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, because it is a day to show the results of some of the work that we have been doing in the last six weeks since I assumed the leadership of NASENI.”

 

He added: “Collectively, these three MoUs will, upon implementation, deliver $2 billion worth of new investments in Nigeria; that will translate into jobs, skills development and technology transfer, potential exports and foreign exchange earnings, and a boost to local economies.”

 

The NASENI EVC/CEO described the MoUs and the Letters of Intent as “early fruits of the diligent work of the new NASENI, an institution that we are reforming and building around the core principles of Collaboration, Creation and Commercialization.

 He added that “we see this as a chain: we forge partnerships with willing and committed partners, at home and abroad; on the basis of these partnerships, we create and co-create new products and innovation; and then we ensure that these products are taken to market in a commercially viable and profitable manner.”

 

He stressed that the Agency will “work very hard to transform them into commercially viable products, that will drive the industrialization, development, and prosperity of Nigeria”, adding that “Innovation is not meant for the shelves, or the archives. It should translate into usable products. This is our belief, and one of our driving principles at NASENI.”

 

Halilu expressed gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), who is the Chairman of the Governing Board of NASENI, as well as Vice President Kashim Shettima (GCON), for the immense support and encouragement that they have provided to him and to the Agency, pledging that the confidence they have reposed in him will not be misplaced.

 

The Chinese companies that submitted Letters of Intent to Vice President Shettima are TBEA (solar products); DongFeng Vehicles Co. (vehicle design and production), HiLong Energy (CNG, LNG, methanol); China State Construction Company (building technology and materials); CIMC (natural gas infrastructure delivery).

 Others are: Value Platform International Services Ltd (vocational training); Acadia Technologies (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd. (smart grids and microgrids); Space Star Technology (Drone technology transfer); ENRIC (clean energy utilization technology); and Hidier Group (development of new industrial park).

 

UNESCO approves International Media Institute for Nigeria

UNESCO approves International Media Institute for Nigeria

 

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has commended UNESCO for approving an International Media and Information Literacy (IMIL) Institute in Nigeria as part of efforts to scale up the fight against disinformation and misinformation. The Minister made the remark during a courtesy visit to his office by the Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Nigeria to UNESCO, Dr. Hajo Sani on Wednesday, October 18, 2023.

The Minister assured UNESCO that the Federal Government would provide everything needed for the take-off of the Institute, adding that the decision to establish the Institute in Nigeria is a big win for the country.

He noted the efforts that the UNESCO Mission in Paris and the Nigerian National Commission for UNESCO have all been making to optimise the benefits of Nigeria’s participation in the global body.

The Minister expressed his gratitude towards Nigeria’s Permanent Delegate for their pivotal role in ensuring the resounding success of the 2022 UNESCO Global Media and Information Literacy Week, which was held in Abuja a year ago.

Furthermore, the Minister recognized the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation’s contributions towards media and information literacy, promotion of freedom of expression, media independence, and building of all-encompassing knowledge societies, which are supported by universal access to information and innovative use of digital technologies.

During her speech, Dr. Hajo Sani, the Nigerian Ambassador and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, highlighted the successful hosting of the 2022 Global Media and Information Literacy Week in Abuja. The event resulted in two significant outcomes – the Abuja Declaration on Global Financing for MIL and the establishment of an International MIL Institute in Nigeria. Dr. Sani emphasized the importance of increased financing and commitment to MIL, which is advocated by the Abuja Declaration.

In order to bring the institute’s vision to life, the Ambassador identified several essential steps. These steps include creating a clear vision for the institute, establishing a structure and budget to ensure sustainable funding, and developing a comprehensive plan of action. A comprehensive proposal that encompasses all necessary elements will be prepared and submitted to the Director-General of UNESCO.
This proposal will serve as the foundation for a feasibility study, which will result in a report and recommendation to the Executive Board regarding Nigeria’s readiness to host the Category Two Institute.

The Ambassador urged the Ministry to take swift action, fully commit to this endeavor, and also mobilize officials responsible within the Ministry to collaborate with the Permanent Delegation and UNESCO headquarters in moving to the next phase.

 

NOA IS THE FULCRUM OF NATIONAL REORIENTATION – SAYS IDRIS, CHARGES PRESS TO STRIKE A BALANCE BETWEEN FREEDOM AND RESPONSIBILITY

NOA IS THE FULCRUM OF NATIONAL REORIENTATION – SAYS IDRIS, CHARGES PRESS TO STRIKE A BALANCE BETWEEN FREEDOM AND RESPONSIBILITY

 

 

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said that his ministry is the custodian of the Renewed Hope agenda of the present administration, adding that the National Orientation Agency is the launch pad for the campaign. The Minister made the remark during a visit to the agency in continuation of the familiarisation tour of agencies under his ministry on Tuesday, October 17, 2023.

The Minister noted that the agency is the mandate office for national orientation, being the custodian of national values and symbols, which reflect the country’s collective heritage. He said the agency has a responsibility to ensure that those symbols and values are maintained for the benefit of the next generation.

The Minister announced plans for a national discussion on value reorientation in Nigeria, citing the significance of character, one value that has an impact on all aspects of national life.

“Each time I have a conversation on the mission of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, the focus has always been on national orientation or reorientation. Without returning to those core values that we are known for; Nigeria is not likely to go anywhere. Part of the reason is the gradual erosion of the values that our founding fathers left for us,” he said.

At the National Press Council, the Minister assured that the administration is committed to providing an enabling environment for the press to carry out its vital role in society, and to ensure that press freedom is respected and guaranteed.

He highlighted the importance of responsible journalism in this advanced stage of Nigeria’s democratization process, emphasizing that press freedom should be exercised in a manner that upholds ethical standards and promotes responsible reporting.

The government, he stated, recognizes the crucial role of the press in society and aims to create an environment where journalists can fulfil their duties without unnecessary constraints.

He assured that the necessary support and enabling environment would be provided for the press to carry out its duties.

“This administration has no intention of restricting the press, but press freedom also comes with responsibility. While the press should have the freedom to do their job, it is important to exercise that freedom responsibly.” The minister said.

The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Dr. Garba Abari, and the National Press Council Executive Secretary, Mr. Francis N. Nwosu, conducted the Minister through their various offices.

In attendance were the Directors of the ministry.

 

New NCC Boss, Maida Commits to President Tinubu’s Vision on Digital Economy

New NCC Boss, Maida Commits to President Tinubu’s Vision on Digital Economy

 

 

“We would not entertain anything that deviates from this direction because my key performance indicators (KPIs) are fed into the Minister’s KPIs and the President KPIs come from the electorate that put him into power. The Hon. Minister has said clearly that he is ready to build a robust digital infrastructure and empower three million Nigerians digitally and we have to do our best to support him in this regard,” Maida said.

 

He stated further that, in the Strategic Plan of the Minister, there was a plan to empower three million Nigerians in digital skills and entrepreneurship, adding that this will require the Commission to support Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) as a digital training institution, to be well positioned in driving the government’s agenda on youth empowerment.

 

The EVC also emphasised the importance of effective spectrum management and utilisation in supporting the envisioned digital connectivity agenda, which is critical to service deployment to the generality of Nigerians and businesses in the country.

 

Maida, while appreciating his predecessors and the entire staff of the Commission for the laudable role being played in digital transformation of all sectors by stimulating the deployment of baseline telecom infrastructure, however, called on the staff of the Commission to join his leadership with a sense of purpose as a team towards advancing the actualisation of the President’s Renewed Hope agenda, which, he said, recognises a thriving digital economy in achieving sustainable development and quality of life for all citizens.

AI and the Future of Partner Programmes: Vertiv Experts Discuss Key Industry Trends at Canalys Forums 2023

AI and the Future of Partner Programmes: Vertiv Experts Discuss Key Industry Trends at Canalys Forums 2023

Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a global provider of critical digital infrastructure and continuity solutions, took centre stage at Canalys Forums 2023 as a Gold Sponsor and presenter, drawing insights from international experts on key trends like Artificial Intelligence (AI). Canalys Forums is a cutting-edge technology event that brings together industry leaders, innovators and experts to explore the latest news, forecasts and strategies in the IT channel market.

 

 

This year, Vertiv participated in two panel presentations in the event Expert Hubs, with Andrea Ferro, VP channel, IT and edge applications for EMEA and Jesper Hersbro, EMEA channel distribution director. Both shared their perspectives on current topics that are closely related to data centres and the channel.

 

 

Specifically, Andrea Ferro spoke about the convergence of AI in the cloud in the Expert Hub titled “AI meets the Cloud”, where he highlighted the importance of AI as the next super application that will significantly drive cloud consumption. He also emphasised that its impact will not be limited to the cloud alone, forecasting noticeable effects for on-premise and colocation data centres.

 

 

Cloud companies are strategically positioned to address this increased demand for AI services, with the help of high-density cooling and power solutions. Their scalable infrastructure and expertise make them ideal partners for organisations looking to harness the power of AI without the burden of managing complex on-premises solutions. As a result, cloud service providers are well equipped not only to support this growth, but also to play a vital role in democratising AI, making it accessible to a wider range of customers and industries. He also mentioned that the synergy between AI and cloud technology will profoundly reshape the data processing and analytics landscape.

 

 

“Vertiv is continuously investing in research and development to provide innovative solutions to support the latest tech trends like AI and high-performance computing,” said Ferro. “Our portfolio already comprises a range of solutions, from efficient and high-capacity liquid and immersion cooling, to smart power and dynamic grid support systems. These high-density solutions complement our wider offering which includes prefabricated modular data centres, including micro solutions for indoor deployments, is designed to support edge applications, reflecting our dedication to staying at the forefront of technological innovation.”

 

 

In the second Expert Hub, “Tomorrow’s partner programmes”, Jesper Hersbro highlighted the different types of partner programmes which help drive both sales and non-sales activities, and can be more easily applied to complex sales cycles and diverse partner ecosystems. “In Vertiv’s case, our VIP incentive programme tracks and rewards partners for a range of sales and non-sales activities without any reporting requirements and lets them know when they have points to redeem,” said Hersbro. “This not only acknowledges their contributions, but also enables them to focus on sales rather than dealing with unnecessary administrative tasks.”

 

 

Vicente Chiralt, VP of marketing for Vertiv in EMEA, added: “Every year, Canalys Forums remains the go-to gathering for the EMEA channel market.  As gold sponsors, we take pride in actively contributing to this crucial event by sharing our expertise, while learning valuable insights from fellow experts and partners. Being here adds depth to our understanding, helping us refine a more robust partner programme.”