UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA UNDERGRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR STUDENTS FROM AFRICA STUDYING IN ENGLISH

UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA UNDERGRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR STUDENTS FROM AFRICA STUDYING IN ENGLISH

UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA UNDERGRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR STUDENTS FROM AFRICA STUDYING IN ENGLISH

Nigerian students desirous of having international exposure and education need not to look further as one of the foremost higher institutions in North America is bringing these aspirations to fruition. The University of Ottawa has recently announced a new four-year renewable entrance and excellence scholarship worth up to $100,000 for Nigerian and other African students newly admitted to English undergraduate programs in the Telfer School of Management, engineering, science, health sciences, or social sciences.

The university made known their criterion for eligibility during a media chat and they said “To be eligible for these scholarships, international students must meet the following criteria such as they must Nigerians or a citizen of any country in Africa or one of the countries listed
be newly admitted in the fall 2024 term in one of the eligible undergraduate programs offered in English in one of the faculties listed not enroll in the French immersion stream have a valid study permit when classes start
be enrolled full-time.”

They also added that “Depending on their average, eligible students could receive an excellence scholarship worth at least $CAN70,000 or an entrance scholarship worth at least $CAN40,000 over four years. ”

Totaling more than $40.5 million, our undergraduate international scholarship and financial aid program remains among the most generous at any major Canadian university. It rewards not only your pre-university academic achievements but also your achievements every term of full-time study.

The scholarship will give Nigerians and other African students studying in English access to many programs across three faculties by significantly reducing their tuition.

To help students throughout the application process, the University of Ottawa will host several virtual information sessions to answer questions and advise prospective students.

The University of Ottawa is an international community of more than 46,800 bright, engaged individuals, including over 9,000 international students from 145 countries. Located in the heart of Canada’s capital, the University offers undergraduate and graduate programs that are second to none. It also ranks among the top 150 universities in the world. In addition, Ottawa is consistently rated as one of the best cities in Canada for safety and quality of life.

Eligibility criteria, programs available, and conditions are presented on the uOttawa International English Scholarship website.

New Era of AI Grips World’s Imagination as GITEX GLOBAL 2023 Enters 2nd Day  

New Era of AI Grips World’s Imagination as GITEX GLOBAL 2023 Enters 2nd Day  

 

Pony.ai, a global robotaxi unicorn, weighs global expansion as the world embraces autonomous mobility

 

His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for AI, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, addresses the inaugural CTO World Congress

 

UAE, October 17, 2023:  As the UAE hosts the world’s largest tech and startup show, Dubai unleashed a new era of global AI dominance at GITEX GLOBAL 2023. The event, currently underway at Dubai World Trade Centre until October 20, brings together the world’s brightest minds, forward-thinking governments, and the most advanced companies to redefine the boundaries of the AI economy and shape the future of technological revolution on the planet.

 

GITEX GLOBAL Explores the Future of Mobility

 

As driverless car trials continue throughout the world, including the UAE, the impact of driverless mobility on society is starting to be felt. Pony.ai, a $8.5 billion Toyota-backed robotaxi unicorn, designs autonomous vehicles with active deployments in Silicon Valley, Beijing, and Guangzhou.

 

Speaking at GITEX GLOBAL, Pony.ai co-founder and CFO Dr. Leo Wang said he sees a viable path toward Middle East expansion. The region’s traditionally friendly business environment and readiness to adopt advanced AI technology provide an excellent incentive for innovative businesses. “With its extensive exhibitor list of global tech leaders, GITEX GLOBAL represents the vast breadth of technology available for robocar brands to help forge broad industrial ecosystems,” he said.

 

Competition is ramping up in the emergent autonomous driving space. Dr. Wang welcomes the rivalry. “Competition is always welcome because the technology and the market potential are progressing much faster. So, you don’t want to be the only player in the field; you want a diverse field so we can all progress together.”

 

CTOs Confront the Generative AI Era

 

Generative AI is reshaping the CTO’s playbook, as it requires a new mindset and skill set for leading and managing software development teams. CTOs are under pressure to embrace generative AI as a strategic asset and a competitive advantage to foster innovation and collaboration among developers while addressing the potential challenges and risks of generative AI, such as data privacy violations and AI ethics.

 

On day two of GITEX GLOBAL, His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, attended the inaugural GITEX CTO World Congress, the year’s largest gathering of tech architects and disruptors. Delivering a keynote on the occasion, H.E. lauded the efforts of GITEX and the CTO World Congress, calling it a platform that brings together the best and brightest, fostering cross-fertilization among startups, individuals, and scientists from around the world to shape the future of technology.

 

Smart Cities: The Future is Now

 

More than 50% of smart cities have embraced AI with 5G technology, enabling faster and more

reliable communication for connected devices. But this grand vision faces numerous challenges – cybersecurity risks lurking in the shadows, data privacy concerns threatening our every move, while interoperability issues muddy the waters of progress.

In a high-level discussion on the future of smart cities, Chris Wan, Associate Director of Sustainability & CSR, Masdar City, was joined by Jordi Vaquer, Secretary General, World Association of Major Metropolises, Spain; Dr Nasser Saidi, Founder and Chair, Clean Energy Business Council MENA and Thomas Debass, MD & Chief Partnerships Officer, US Department of State discussed ‘Making the Zero Dream a Reality: Decarbonising Cities by 2050’.

The conversation delved into the critical motives for achieving net zero goals as early as possible, citing factors like population growth. The speakers emphasized the daunting task of investing in sustainable urban development and explored potential solutions, including phasing out fossil fuel subsidies to redirect resources toward net zero objectives, implementing a carbon tax and attracting private sector funding in energy transition projects.

 

The 43rd edition of GITEX GLOBAL takes place from 16-20 October 2023, the blockbuster tech showpiece once again reaching full capacity at the Dubai World Trade Centre as it prepares to host more than 6,000 exhibitors and 180,000 tech executives from 180 countries. GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star comprise a combined 41 halls spanning 2.7 million sq. ft of exhibition space, a 40% growth year-on-year with 1,800 startups across both. The events converge the best minds and most visionary companies to scrutinize, challenge, define, and empower the digital agendas of the wor

From Payment Gateways to Agency Banking: ARCA Payments’ Role in Transforming African Finance

From Payment Gateways to Agency Banking: ARCA Payments’ Role in Transforming African Finance

 

In an exclusive media chat with Dare Owolabi, the Executive Vice Chairman of Arca Payments Company Limited, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s financial technology sector, discusses the company’s role in payment gateway, payment switches, and the newly introduced ARCA Agency Banking (ArcaMoney). The interview, conducted by Anthony Nwosu, delves into the Nigerian payment landscape and the company’s relationship with the regulatory body, the CBN, while also exploring strategies to enhance electronic payments in the country.

 

ARCA has been into the Fintech ecosystem, tell me the journey.

 

ARCA, established in 2016, is a Fintech company holding numerous regulatory licenses issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria, including a Switching License, Agency Banking License, Processing License, and more. Distinguishing itself as one of the few entities with this array of licenses, ARCA takes pride in having developed its switches in-house. The company’s proprietary switch technology has played a pivotal role in its journey, propelling it to significant achievements within the fintech ecosystem and solidifying its market presence.

 

ARCA’s core mission revolves around simplifying payment acceptance and processing for financial institutions and SMEs, with a primary focus on Africa’s dynamic payment landscape. Its suite of products and solutions seamlessly operates within the multifaceted payments environment, effectively bridging the gap between individuals, financial institutions, banks, and businesses, all contributing to the growth of Africa’s digital economy.

Industry watchers always cite Kenya as a leader in electronic payment in Africa, Do you think that Kenya is leading the way?

My perspective differs; the assertion about Kenya’s prominence often centers around the MPESA model, which has indeed seen remarkable success. However, Nigeria boasts an exceptional electronic payment system anchored by institutions like NIBBS and our interbank payment model. Our ability to execute instant transfers is particularly noteworthy, a feature not universally available. Notably, even in the United States, there are limitations on the amount you can transfer.

 

It’s worth noting that while I acquired a mobile money license in 2010, the reality is that mobile money adoption in Nigeria hasn’t achieved the same scale as Kenya. Nevertheless, Nigeria stands out as a leader in payment gateways and various fintech sectors. Our domestically developed payment gateway has found utility in several other African nations, affirming our substantial contributions to the advancement of payment systems across the continent. Indeed, we’ve made significant strides in shaping the African payment landscape.

 

Do you think that the regulator, CBN, is doing much to support indigenous fintechs like yours?

 

Yes, the regulator has been very supportive to the industry, the Central Bank of Nigeria has shown leadership and created an environment for us to thrive. The Nigerian fintech space has scaled from what it was in the early 2000s to now. They have been very supportive of some of the products and compliance. The CBN has also ensured that risk and other complications are taken care of and we just need to work and collaborate from the operational and legal point of view.

 

You can be described as a stakeholder in Nigeria, are you looking at expanding to other African countries?

 

Yes, we can not only play in Nigeria, we have the intention of exporting our expertise to other African countries. We are going into the East African region in a few months’ time, we are working on our license in Kenya, and we are looking at South Africa also.  These are the few countries we are looking at. By the time our licenses are ready, we will deploy in those countries.

 

Tell us about the business-to-business (B2B) Solutions.

 

These are looking at PoS services, a lot of our PoS are across regions and we have unique features in our PoS called the Arca Pay,  this addresses some of the challenges we have today in PoS space, we have our Agency Banking which we just launched and it is in pilot mode but the numbers that are coming out from the Agency Banking solution is very impressive and we are deepening that.  We have other things such as issuing cards through the banks and most of our customers are very impressive be it virtual or physical cards.

 

Your Agency Banking solution that you launched is making waves in the ecosystem, what are the unique solutions that you have added there as a feature?

 

Our Agency Banking, named ArcaMoney, empowers authorized agents to facilitate financial transactions for customers, enhancing accessibility to banking services. In our quest to develop this innovative solution, we conducted a thorough analysis of existing agent banking models, including their relationships with merchants and aggregator frameworks. Through extensive research, we meticulously engineered a platform that ensures the seamless execution of transactions, providing customers with instant settlements and industry-leading uptime.

 

Moreover, we carefully considered commission structures that would satisfy our merchant partners, incorporating these features into our solution. Our Point of Sale (PoS) system has been meticulously designed to simplify banking and transactions for agents. By making our PoS system readily available and more cost-effective across various regions, we have streamlined processes, resulting in improved accessibility. We are also actively engaged in raising awareness about these developments within the industry.

 

Tell us about your Arca payment gateway ( ArcaPay) and disbursement?

 

Arca’s platform simplifies fast and secure fund transfers for businesses, with advanced technology for single and bulk transfers. While Arca TMS is a software that manages POS terminals, offers monitoring and analytics for ARCA Payments and its customers,and provides a report engine for acquirers and merchants to access transaction data from their terminals. Arca payment gateway ( ArcaPay) ArcaPay facilitates secure and speedy electronic payments for merchants by acting as an intermediary between them and their customers. We also created Arca Switch which is a cutting-edge payment infrastructure for modern demands. Our open-source switching system, built with cloud-native tech, facilitates seamless payments between both FI and NFI players.

 

What are the security parameters you have as a switching and payment gateway solution provider?

 

Security is not merely a token gesture within our platform; we take it seriously. Our commitment to security is exemplified by our robust compliance team dedicated to this sphere. We are proud to hold the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) certification and maintain strict compliance—a pivotal benchmark in the payment sector. This commitment has been upheld for years, and it underscores our alignment with global best practices.

 

Furthermore, our track record speaks for itself; we have never encountered a fraud issue. This success can be attributed to the vigilance of our dedicated fraud monitoring and compliance teams, who consistently prioritize security as a paramount concern.

 

What  are the measures  that you have put in place to address downtime and support systems?

Well, in the area of downtime we have put into place a robust mechanism that deals with online real time here, but sometimes it comes from our internet network providers but we have backup that addresses these challenges. We have ensured that we have support system that addresses queries 24/7

 

What advice can you give to the regulator as an industry stakeholder in Nigeria?

 

My advice is simple, that we should continue to collaborate, work together and develop framework together. We should continue to  showcase our capabilities across board, especially those that work with regulators from bank, microfinance point of view and other areas. This will help us have a holistic team that will help up align with the view of the regulator.

Are we looking at any new solution from ARCA ?

Our current focal point revolves around enhancing our Agency Banking offering. We have plans to introduce new features and functionalities that are currently absent in the system. This initiative is a key priority for us as we approach the end of this year.Looking ahead to the coming year, our focus will shift towards the development and presentation of our payment switch. We anticipate showcasing a range of innovative features within the payment switch that will contribute to an enriched user experience.

 

During this final quarter, we are actively engaged in conducting extensive awareness campaigns and sensitization efforts, particularly centered around our Agency Banking services.

 

“Furthermore, our track record speaks for itself; we have never encountered a fraud issue. This success can be attributed to the vigilance of our dedicated fraud monitoring and compliance teams, who consistently prioritize security as a paramount concern.”

 

Across Multiple African Markets, Fintrak Software Limited Brings AI-Powered Credit Management Software

Across Multiple African Markets, Fintrak Software Limited Brings AI-Powered Credit Management Software

 

Fintrak Software Limited, a financial technology (Fintech) firm headquartered in Lagos, has set a new benchmark in the African financial landscape with its groundbreaking introduction of AI powered “Fintrak Credit 360”. This cutting-edge credit management software, laced with the power of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, is poised to revolutionized credit processes within banks and allied institutions across the continent.

In a recent international webinar engagement spanning multiple African countries, from Kenya to Tanzania, Gambia, and Uganda, Fintrak Software Limited showcased its innovative software to a gathering of prominent industry players and bankers. The event was not merely a demonstration; it was a revelation. The Fintrak Credit 360 software garnered unanimous acclaim for its seamless integration of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in credit risk management.

Bimbo Abioye, the Group Managing Director of Fintrak Software, said the software’s transformative impact on the credit lifecycle. Unlike conventional banking solutions, Fintrak Credit Risk 360 comprehensively captures every stage of credit management, from origination and appraisal to customer approval, loan approval, and even rescheduling. The infusion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) ensures a flawless execution of these processes, eradicating the possibility of human error.

Abioye emphasized the software’s ability to automate credit transactions, including intricate processes like payday loans, end to end. Through strategic integration with credit bureaus and regulatory bodies like the Central Bank of Nigeria, Fintrak Credit Risk 360 emerges as a holistic solution for any bank, empowering them to manage various loan types effectively.

In the words of Omar Mboob, a seasoned banker from Gambia, Fintrak’s software has streamlined their operations, introducing meticulous underwriting and enhancing client oversight. The automation features have instilled confidence in auditors due to adherence to international financial reporting standards (IFRS), significantly boosting efficiency and productivity.

Bimbo Abioye, Group Managing Director, FINTRAK Software Limited

Kenneth Uzoegwu, a financial analyst, added that Fintrak’s Credit Risk software is impactful for its swift decision-making capabilities, facilitated by AI and machine learning components. 

Christopher Sualeze, Head of Commercial Banking SBU, FinTrak Software, highlighted the software’s open architecture, making seamless integration with other credit software possible. He also emphasized its prowess in anomaly detection and behavioral analysis of customers, facilitated by a dynamic product rack.

Fintrak Credit Risk 360 incorporates a comprehensive array of core components essential for managing credit risk effectively. This robust system encompasses features such as loan origination and collateral management, corporate bulk loan breaking, credit reporting, disbursement execution, loan restructuring, and real-time loan monitoring. Furthermore, the system integrates an embedded document management system, utilizing cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies for efficient data analysis and decision-making processes. It also streamlines credit documentation processes, including Credit Approval Memos (CAM) and Credit Approval Forms (CAF). Additionally, the platform facilitates rigorous credit appraisal through in-depth financial analysis and risk rating methodologies.

The system further extends its functionality to accommodate various approval levels, from bank officers to credit committees and board committees. It provides mobile loan approval capabilities, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for stakeholders involved in the approval process. Through its digital lending capabilities, the platform transforms the lending experience, making it more efficient, transparent, and secure for both financial institutions and borrowers.

Cybersecurity in the Spotlight as GITEX GLOBAL 2023 Opens

Cybersecurity in the Spotlight as GITEX GLOBAL 2023 Opens

United States of America, October 16, 2023/APO Group/ —

The world’s leading cybersecurity experts have convened at GITEX GLOBAL 2023 (www.GITEX.com) to address the urgent challenges of cybercrime, projected to cause $10.5 trillion in annual damages by 2025. Ransomware, crypto crime and risks associated with Generative AI are some of the key threats that CISOs and security professionals need to tackle in the digital era.

 

His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity, UAE Government, gave a keynote address at GITEX GLOBAL, highlighting how digital transformation across all sectors in the UAE has made it a catalyst for improved collaboration. Al-Kuwaiti also highlighted UAE’s Cybersecurity Council’s work across the UAE and how it collaborates with partners to protect and defend people and organizations against threats. “We strive to continuously innovate and form partnerships with entities, nations, and governments. Our vision is to create a great place to collaborate, work, and serve the entire world,” he added.

Cybersecurity in the AI era

At the show, Huawei is demonstrating its leading-edge cybersecurity capabilities and solutions to address the evolving threats faced by organisations and nations hopping onto the digital transformation bandwagon.

Dr. Aloysius Cheang, Chief Security Officer, Huawei Middle East & Central Asia, highlighted some cybersecurity risks associated with the rapidly advancing AI industry. “While generative AI can enhance cyber security, it can also introduce potential vulnerabilities and risks. There is a need for businesses, governments, and society to proactively address the possible risks, regulate the ethical use of generative AI in cybersecurity, and establish robust governance frameworks.”

Dr. Aloysius advocated for greater collaboration and information-sharing among organisations to combat cyber threats effectively. “We must pivot and focus our efforts on building Data Security Governance and adopting the ‘follow the data’ model as an abstraction to address any new technology that comes our way, whether it be cloud or AI.”

Our vision is to create a great place to collaborate, work, and serve the entire world

A panel discussion titled “Cybersecurity at the Heart of Digital Transformation” featured HE Dr. Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti along with Amer Sharaf, Executive Director of Cyber Security Systems and Services Sector, Dubai Electronics Security Centre, Nathan Swain, former Senior Security Advisor to the U.K. Government, His Excellency Pengiran Dato Shamhary Mustapha, Minister of Transport and Infocummunications, Brunei and Hon. Ousman Bah, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Gambia. The panellists shared their insights on balancing security and innovation in the digital age. Together, they collectively emphasized the importance of collaboration with both public and private entities, underscoring the need to sustain investments in cybersecurity.

GITEX GLOBAL 2023 marked the global debut of the year’s most anticipated cybersecurity showcase, GITEX Cyber Valley, hosted by the UAE Cybersecurity Council. The Cyber Valley hosts various hackathons with over 500 white hackers participating across five challenges to solve global tech issues. Cyber Valley participants can also explore X-Labs Security, a cutting-edge platform for technical talks and the latest product demos.

Leading cybersecurity organisations including Huawei, Netscout, ESET, Kaspersky, Norton, Palo Alto, Fortinet, and more, are exhibiting at GITEX GLOBAL to showcase how their solutions are helping organisations protect their most precious assets.

Autonomous Mobility Meets Extreme Sports

Autonomy is advancing at a remarkable pace, with the power to redefine mobility. Today, the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) unveiled the Super Formula Dallara model at GITEX ahead of the first autonomous race at the Abu Dhabi F1 track in April 2024.

Dr. Tom McCarthy, Executive Director of ASPIRE, the technology transition arm of ATRC, said, “The Dallara Super Formula car has been adapted with an autonomy stack, allowing the vehicle to perceive its environment and race autonomously at the Abu Dhabi Yas Marina Circuit. A2RL marks a significant milestone for Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE, setting the stage for disruptive innovations in mobility through extreme sports.”

GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star comprise a combined 41 halls spanning 2.7 million sq. ft of exhibition space, a 40% growth year-on-year attracting 1,800 start-ups across the two mega-events. GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star converge the best minds and most visionary companies to scrutinise, challenge, define, and empower the digital agendas of the world.

More information is available at www.GITEX.com and www.ExpandNorthStar.com

Unsung African Hero, Engr Hadi Usman, Showcases Remarkable Innovation and Resilience at 70 Years

Unsung African Hero, Engr Hadi Usman, Showcases Remarkable Innovation and Resilience at 70 Years

 

In a testament to the adage “No time is late,” senior citizen Engr Hadi Usman defied conventional norms by achieving groundbreaking feats in technology without any formal education. Born and raised in Northern Nigeria, 70-year-old Engr Hadi Usman, a resident of Gombe, has become an emblem of innovation and resilience in the region.

Despite lacking a formal education, Hadi’s ingenuity shone brightly as he established a radio station, developed a radio transmitter, and pioneered a community radio station, all of which came to fruition on 23rd January 1980. His inventive spirit did not stop there; Hadi recently created a fuelless generator and a revolutionary cooking stove that runs on water, marking a significant milestone in sustainable energy solutions.

Today, the world recognizes his exceptional contributions as he was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate degree of Science at the 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th combined convocation of Gombe State University, Nigeria. This recognition highlights his outstanding achievements and the impact of his innovations on the community and beyond.

Engr Hadi Usman’s story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating that age is no barrier to innovation and success. His achievements underscore the importance of perseverance and determination, showcasing the incredible potential within every individual, regardless of their background or age.

Hadi Usman’s journey emphasizes the essence of self-reliance and technology advancement, serving as a shining example of what can be accomplished when passion, creativity, and resilience converge. He stands as a testament to the untapped potential within the African continent and a reminder of the limitless possibilities that exist when determination fuels innovation.

SearchWorks announces partnership with BridgeWorks to provide bridging finance to the property market with incentives for property practitioners

SearchWorks announces partnership with BridgeWorks to provide bridging finance to the property market with incentives for property practitioners

 

 

SearchWorks, the country’s leading data aggregation platform has announced its partnership with property sale-based bridging finance group, BridgeWorks in a new advance and incentive scheme for property practitioners.

 

The partnership enables receipt of up to 80% advance on sale proceeds for property practitioners and property sellers, eliminating waiting times for registration, via the SearchWorks platform.

 

“There are many reasons for property owners to want to release funds in advance of the registration of a sale, including settling outstanding municipal accounts, booking removals and covering other expenses associated with moving home or offices,” said Sameer Kumandan, Managing Director at SearchWorks. “Already a leading provider of property bridging solutions, BridgeWorks is now able, with access to our vetting and authentication platform, to clear up to 80% of seller’s anticipated proceeds to estate agents in one quick and secure process.”

 

Property Practitioners that recommend and facilitate bridging finance through the SearchWorks/BridgeWorks partnership can also receive incentives on a sliding scale, based on the amount of the customer’s loan. The SearchWorks web-based interface performs all the required checks on both the borrower and the applicable property, to ensure the validity of the assets. Loans are processed by BridgeWorks within 24 hours of receipt of signed completed documentation.

 

“The partnership between SearchWorks and BridgeWorks makes business sense for each of our companies at the same time as benefitting borrowers and practitioners who can release funds from their property sale upfront. The additional Property Practitioner incentive is our way of thanking property practitioners for their patronage and acknowledging the work they do in the property sector,” says Kumandan.

 

Incentives are paid at the beginning of each month to the SearchWorks user, based on transactions that are completed during the preceding month. There is also the option to have the amount paid into the attorney’s business account if agents prefer.

 

“Property Owners and Estate Agents can access up to 80% of the proceeds from a property sale but are only charged for the amount they take. In addition, we are providing dedicated consultants to help property practitioners navigate the process, making it simpler as well as safe and secure,” added Kumandan.

 

Property practitioners can earn R100 on each transaction valued between R5 000 – R10 000, R200 for loans between R10 000 – R 20 000, R300 on bridging finance from R20 000-R50 000 and R350 for all advances over R50 000.

 

In addition to the incentives keep an eye out for some exciting competitions that will be published in the near future.

 

“By taking advantage of the SearchWorks-BridgeWorks partnership, property practitioners can provide an additional service to their clients and accelerate their own success in the process,” concluded Kumandan.

 

 

Jelani Aliyu’s Impact on the Nigerian Automotive Industry

Jelani Aliyu’s Impact on the Nigerian Automotive Industry

 

Jelani Aliyu, MFR, an accomplished international Automotive Designer, currently holds the esteemed position of Director General at the National Automotive Design and Development Council in Nigeria. He pursued his education at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, Michigan, United States, and honed his skills while working with General Motors in both the United States and Germany. Notably, he played a pivotal role in designing a range of highly successful vehicles for the company, including the Pontiac G6, Chevrolet Silverado, and the groundbreaking Chevrolet Volt Electric Car, a technological marvel that has reshaped the global Automotive Industry.

Hailing from Sokoto State in Nigeria, Aliyu’s deep-rooted pride in his Nigerian heritage is evident. Born in Kaduna and raised in the vibrant city of Sokoto, his family’s origins trace back to Dogondaji in Tambuwal Local Government. He is deeply committed to the development of his homeland, Nigeria, and the preservation of our environment. Aliyu passionately strives to motivate his fellow Nigerians to tap into their innate potential, emphasizing that, beyond careers and professions, it’s essential for all of us to work collaboratively and leverage our individual strengths and modest resources to bring about positive change in our communities.

As the Director General and CEO of the National Automotive Design and Development Council, Aliyu has spearheaded remarkable progress in the Nigerian Automotive Sector. His leadership has attracted substantial private investments from automotive companies, amounting to over 1 billion US dollars. These companies, boasting a combined production capacity exceeding 400,000 units per year, are actively manufacturing diverse vehicle models and configurations in the country. Notable participants include DanGote-Sino Trucks, Innoson, Peugeot, Honda, Lanre Shittu, Mikano/Geely, Toyota, Ford, and Hyundai. Over 30,000 Nigerian youths have been empowered through mechatronics training, with the establishment of 21 Automotive Training Centers nationwide, three Automotive Testing Laboratories, and two additional Service Hubs currently in progress. Aliyu’s agency has successfully completed the construction of a state-of-the-art Research and Development Centre in Samaru, Zaria, dedicated to the production of two Nigeria-specific vehicles designed by Jelani Aliyu.

Under Aliyu’s guidance, the Council has initiated the assembly of Electric Vehicles, such as the Hyundai Kona EV and the Jet Motors Electric Bus and Van. Furthermore, three 100% Solar Electric Vehicle Charging Stations have been deployed at strategic locations, including the University of Lagos, Usmanu Dan Fodio University in Sokoto, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka Dan Fodio. These pioneering projects have firmly established Nigeria as a prominent global advocate for e-mobility and the sustainability of the planet’s environment.

Beyond his role as an Automotive/Industrial Designer, Jelani Aliyu is also an accomplished Architectural Conceptualist, Technology and Environmental Sustainability Advocate, and a devoted mentor to Nigerian youth. He is the visionary founder of the Jelani Aliyu Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to innovative social interventions in healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability, all aimed at propelling the progress of Nigeria and Africa. In his own words, Jelani Aliyu believes that Nigeria should be defined not by its current challenges but by its dreams and aspirations. He firmly asserts that there are no impossibilities and that a better Nigeria awaits, ready to be built by the collective efforts of its people.

Eni Ukpai Eni, A Public Affairs Commentator writes from Abuja

Faith Cathedral International Church’s Women Group, Egbeda, Lagos, Shines at “Redeem/Received Wisdom” Annual Convention

Faith Cathedral International Church’s Women Group, Egbeda, Lagos, Shines at “Redeem/Received Wisdom” Annual Convention

 

The Women Group of Faith Cathedral International Church, situated in the heart of Egbeda, Lagos, recently concluded their highly-anticipated Annual Convention, themed “Winning Wisdom ” The convention served as a powerful testament to the unwavering faith and godliness of women in an increasingly materialistic and challenging world.

Known as the “Women of Destiny,” this dedicated group came together for a spirit-filled event that showcased their commitment to seeking divine guidance amidst the challenges faced by families today. Through thought-provoking drama performances, they highlighted the importance of turning to God during times of adversity and entrusting Him with their troubles. The convention also featured uplifting musical performances and various other ministries.

Pastor Fred Obetoh, the General Overseer of Faith Cathedral International Ministry, delivered an inspirational message to the women, commending their steadfastness in their faith and their invaluable role in upholding family values in our rapidly changing world. He emphasized the significance of women understanding their place in society and the vital role they play in ensuring the well-being of their families. Pastor Fred Obetoh stressed that women should not be swayed by the distractions of the modern world, including the pervasive influence of social media and the rising prevalence of divorce. He encouraged women to recognize their husbands as the heads of their households and accord them respect, regardless of their financial status.

In her closing remarks, Winifred Obetoh, the Matron of the Women of Destiny and wife of the General Overseer, conveyed a powerful message, stating, “Women are the wives, not the knives. God has positioned us to bring peace to families, and His grace will guide us.”

The annual convention of women is a week-long gathering where women unite to celebrate and promote the sanctity and goodness of God, showcasing their unwavering faith in a world that often challenges their beliefs.

Anthony Nwosu

Director General of NITDA Highlights Innovation as Key Driver for Nigeria’s Economic Growth

Director General of NITDA Highlights Innovation as Key Driver for Nigeria’s Economic Growth

The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, reaffirmed the pivotal role of innovation in fostering Nigeria’s economic prosperity. He underscored the importance of harnessing the nation’s vibrant youth population as a valuable resource that can be leveraged in a national outsourcing strategy for wealth creation.

Mr. Abdullahi made these remarks during his keynote address titled “Nigeria’s Tech-Driven Future: Exploring Opportunities and Overcoming Challenges” at the Texcellence Conference, held at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos.

The conference drew notable innovators and startups from within Nigeria and beyond, creating a dynamic forum for discussions on the country’s technological advancement and the possibilities it presents for the future.