GITEX GLOBAL hosts Middle East’s largest data centre gathering to propel the future of hyperscale, modular, and edge infrastructure

GITEX GLOBAL hosts Middle East’s largest data centre gathering to propel the future of hyperscale, modular, and edge infrastructure

GITEX GLOBAL 2024 (www.GITEX.com), the world’s largest tech and startup event, hosted the Middle East’s largest data centre gathering on Thursday at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), showcasing the region’s commitment to becoming a global leader in the rapidly evolving data centre market.

 

The conference programme underscored the far-reaching implications of AI in data infrastructure, a driving force behind the rapidly expanding billion-dollar global market., while leading enterprises captivated the audience with their innovative solutions, showcasing the future of hyperscale, modular, and edge data centres.

 

As businesses increasingly turn to AI, the global data centre market is projected to reach USD $256 billion by the end of this year and will rise to USD $775 billion by 2034.

 

GITEX GLOBAL serves as a critical platform for industry leaders to engage in discussions that highlight the urgent need for enhanced and scalable data centres, essential for supporting the burgeoning AI-driven demand.

 

Driving Job Opportunities And Benefiting Society

 

On “Data Centres Universe”, conversations focused on how hyperscale, edge, and modular data centres can contribute to the growth in the presence of the sector’s biggest names. Major players, including Khazna, Legrand, Vertiv, Alibaba Cloud, AWS, DELL, Google Cloud, IBM, and Lenovo, convened to share their perspectives on the evolving trajectory of the industry, explore potential avenues for accelerated growth, and underscore the critical role of expansion in catalyzing global ambitions for AI-driven innovation.

 

Hassan Al Naqbi, CEO of Khazna Data Centers, the MENA region’s largest hyperscale wholesale data centre provider, explained during a panel discussion that more data centres not only boost the market’s growth but also build capacity, supporting talent development, and fostering employment to meet the increasing demand.

 

He said: “A lot of people think that data centres are not a job creation machine. However, data centres are vital for economies and have different roles involved. If you look at all the hyperscales, their data centres are having a huge impact on the economy as people can secure jobs which are vital for the day-to-day operations.”

Data Centres are built with 15 years in mind and we have to think what they would look like in a specific time and get it right from the beginning

 

As the conversation shifted toward the future of data centres, industry experts emphasized the importance of sustainable practices in their development as the industry’s advancements enable the next-generation of tech solutions and services.

 

Marc Marazzi, Vice President of Legrand Data Center Solutions, shared his perspective on the need for careful planning and environmental responsibility in this rapidly expanding market. He believes the industry will go from strength to strength but organisations must exercise caution in their decision-making when building data centres taking into account long-term considerations of how the world will evolve over the next decade.

 

He said: “It’s great to see many taking the green initiative very seriously and looking at the way they are building and cooling data centres. Today, they are bigger than ever before and being built faster but we must not lose sight of the importance of how we manufacture, what we are installing and how they are managed. Data Centres are built with 15 years in mind and we have to think what they would look like in a specific time and get it right from the beginning.”

 

What Next at GITEX GLOBAL 2024?

 

As GITEX GLOBAL comes to a close on Friday, ‘Futuristic Friday’ promises to feature groundbreaking technologies such as quantum computing, advanced robotics, and space tech, all poised to redefine the boundaries of possibility in the tech landscape.

 

Taking place from 14-18 October at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), GITEX GLOBAL is recognized as the world’s largest and best-rated tech event. This year presents a record-breaking 44th edition – welcoming over 6,500 exhibitors, 1,800 startups, 1,200 investors alongside governments from more than 180 countries.

 

GITEX GLOBAL in Dubai is seamlessly connecting the world’s largest network of tech events with its stellar list including GITEX EUROPE Berlin, GITEX ASIA Singapore, GITEX AFRICA Morocco, and GITEX NIGERIA. These events are fostering collaboration and driving innovation to shape the tech landscape of tomorrow.

Kaspersky uncovers new Grandoreiro light variant, the threat also expands to Asia and Africa

Kaspersky uncovers new Grandoreiro light variant, the threat also expands to Asia and Africa

Despite the arrest of important operators in early 2024, Grandoreiro continues to be used by its partners in new campaigns. Kaspersky Global Research and Analysis team (GReAT) (www.Kaspersky.co.za) has discovered a new light version focused on Mexico targeting around 30 banks. These findings are to be highlighted at the Security Analyst Summit (SAS) 2024. Remaining one of the most active threats globally and targeting users of more than 1,700 banks, Grandoreiro variants account for around five percent of banking trojan attacks this year.  Mexico is one of the most targeted countries by various Grandoreiro strains, including the new light version, seeing 51,000 recorded incidents this year.

 

Kaspersky data indicates Grandoreiro has been active since 2016. In 2024, the threat targets more than 1,700 financial institutions and 276 cryptocurrency wallets across 45 countries and territories, lastly adding Asia and Africa to the list of its targets, making it a truly global financial threat. Among countries affected in Africa are Algeria, Angola, Ethiopia, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda.

After assisting an INTERPOL-coordinated action, which has led to Brazilian authorities arresting (http://apo-opa.co/3BUqgrb) operators behind a Grandoreiro banking trojan operation, Kaspersky discovered that the group’s codebase has been split into lighter, fragmented versions of the trojan, to continue its attacks. Recent analysis has identified a specific light version focused primarily on Mexico, which has been used to target approximately 30 financial institutions. The creators likely have access to the source code and are launching new campaigns using the simplified legacy malware.

“All the recent developments underscore the evolving nature of the threat. Fragmented and lighter versions may represent a trend that could extend beyond Mexico and into other regions, including beyond Latin America. However, we believe that only some trusted affiliates have access to the malware source code to develop such lighter versions. Grandoreiro operates differently from the traditional ‘Malware-as-a-Service’ model we are accustomed to. You won’t find announcements on underground forums selling the Grandoreiro package; instead, access to it appears to be limited,” explains Fabio Assolini, head of the Latin American (GReAT) at Kaspersky.

Grandoreiro has a large and complex structure, which would make it easier for security tools or analysts to detect if its strings were not encrypted

Multiple variants of Grandoreiro, including the new light version and the primary malware, accounted for approximately five percent of global banking trojan attacks detected by Kaspersky in 2024, making it one of the most active threats worldwide. Kaspersky has also analysed the newer samples of the primary Grandoreiro from 2024, and observed new tactics. It records mouse activity to mimic real user patterns, aiming to evade detection by machine learning-based security systems that analyse behaviour. By replaying natural mouse movements, the malware aims to trick anti-fraud tools into seeing the activity as legitimate.

Additionally, Grandoreiro has adopted a cryptographic technique known as Ciphertext Stealing (CTS), which Kaspersky has never seen being used in malware. In this case, its aim is to encrypt the malicious code strings. “Grandoreiro has a large and complex structure, which would make it easier for security tools or analysts to detect if its strings were not encrypted. This is likely why they introduced this new technique – to complicate the detection and analysis of their attacks,” Fabio Assolini elaborated.

To protect from financial malware, Kaspersky security experts recommend organisations to:

  • Enable a Default Deny policy for critical user profiles, particularly those in financial departments; this ensures that only legitimate web resources can be accessed.
  • Provide cybersecurity awareness training (http://apo-opa.co/4e3nlKa) to staff, especially to employees responsible for accounting, that includes instructions on how to detect phishing pages.
  • Use protection solutions for mail servers with anti-phishing capabilities such as Kaspersky Security for Mail Server, to decrease the chance of infection through a phishing email.

 

While banks should educate its customers, individuals are advised to:

  • Never open links or documents included in unexpected or suspicious-looking messages. Be attentive to web pages – from the right web address to details of interface.
  • Use a reliable security solution, such as Kaspersky Premium (http://apo-opa.co/4dWrbEW), that protect digital assets from a wide range of financial cyberthreats.
  • Install only applications obtained from reliable sources.
  • Refrain from approving rights or permissions requested by applications without first ensuring they match the application’s feature set.
  • Install the latest updates and patches for all software used.

 

Read more on Securelist (http://apo-opa.co/3C4N5bD). The comprehensive Grandoreiro analysis and overview is to be presented by GReAT at Kaspersky’s sixteenth Security Analyst Summit (SAS) (http://apo-opa.co/3BPHtly), which takes place from October 22-25, 2024, in Bali.

Precious Imuwahen Ajoonu Advocates for Increased Female Leadership Across Public and Private Sectors

Precious Imuwahen Ajoonu Advocates for Increased Female Leadership Across Public and Private Sectors

 

Precious Imuwahen Ajoonu, renowned author of The Hero Inside: A Holistic Approach to Life Skills and Values-based Education, and a leading figure in learning and development, recently shared her insights on the critical need for greater female participation in leadership roles. As a seasoned expert in education technology, leadership development, and a pioneer in creating the Jobberman Soft Skills Curriculum, Ajoonu has been actively involved in empowering women to step into leadership positions, both in the private and public sectors.

Reflecting on her recent work, Ajoonu revealed her involvement in helping a visionary female leader establish an organization aimed at increasing women’s presence in decision-making spaces. “Women must be in every single room where decisions are made,” the visionary leader passionately argued, a sentiment Ajoonu wholeheartedly echoed.

Ajoonu emphasized the urgent need for more women to cross over from the private sector into public service and vice versa, arguing that such cross-sector collaboration is essential for fostering holistic leadership. Drawing from her own experience working in both sectors, she highlighted the invaluable lessons that female leaders can glean from navigating these diverse environments. “The lessons you learn cannot be quantified,” she noted, underscoring the importance of consciously creating opportunities for women in leadership to collaborate across sectors.

According to Ajoonu, the intersection between public and private sector female leadership has never been more critical. Women leaders, she pointed out, are not only breaking barriers in their respective fields but also bridging the gap between these sectors. By bringing diverse perspectives, innovation, and resilience to the table, female leaders are driving significant change. In the public sector, they champion policies that promote equity and societal well-being, while in the private sector, they lead with a vision that accelerates growth and fosters inclusive cultures.

Ajoonu called for greater synergy between female leaders in both sectors, arguing that this collaboration can strengthen both business and society. “By learning from each other’s experiences—public sector adaptability and private sector agility—we can create a powerful synergy that empowers the next generation of women leaders across all fields,” she said. Ajoonu believes that this cross-sector exchange of ideas and expertise can create a more dynamic and equitable future, where women’s leadership transcends industry boundaries.

Her vision extends beyond individual success stories, aiming for systemic change that positions female leaders as key drivers of innovation, growth, and societal progress. As Ajoonu passionately concluded, “Leadership is not defined by industry, but by the courage, vision, and impact we bring to the table.” Through her work, she continues to advocate for a future where women leaders are at the forefront of decision-making across both public and private sectors, forging a path for the next generation of trailblazers.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Bringing Streaming to the Mainstream

Bringing Streaming to the Mainstream

Television is in the midst of its latest game-changing technology shift – this time from the traditional linear, direct-to-home (DTH) content distribution model to the over-the-top or OTT approach.

 

OTT – or streaming – offers flexibility, and means users are no longer tied to a specific device or location to consume content.

The power of access is now in the hands of the customer, who can choose what to watch, when, and how much of it. This is an advantage for large content providers. At MultiChoice Africa, for instance, streaming on-demand is the perfect way to give customers access to our self-produced local content library of 84 000 hours.

 

Innovating for a better experience  

The shift to streaming and OTT also comes with new challenges, however. Faced with thousands of hours of content, viewers may be overwhelmed. Artificial Intelligence and machine learning allow us to solve this, surfacing and recommending customised selections of content based on viewing behaviour.

To do this effectively, UX design must build upon AI data insights, to shape the content experience in ways that are both personalised and attuned to industry trends.

Because audience preferences can now be observed and understood in real time, it’s also important that in-house UX teams be deeply integrated with product and tech teams. This has been our approach with our ongoing MultiChoice UI design refinements.

Another AI application in the broader content space is in building efficiencies that allow millions of viewers to watch content in their local languages.  

At MultiChoice, have been able to train AI for subtitling in several regional languages, enabling us to automate translations for entire series of content. This capability has already been deployed for Swahili translations in Kenya, on the Showmax platform, as well as in two vernacular languages in Nigeria.

The next step is to use AI to automate the audio dubbing of content into African regional languages to further bolster the content that we already deliver in those languages.

As an Africa-wide content provider, MultiChoice also understands that our customers face very real data challenges. We have therefore been forced to innovate to alleviate this pain point, and to find value and efficiencies for our customers through technology.

Data compression is one solution we have found. To address the distance factor, we have found partners that will allow us to cache content closer to our various user communities. We have created nodes closer to those regions that will copy content from source locations in South Africa before relaying it to the end user.

Adapted bit rate is another practical solution to data challenges. With this in place, picture quality adapts dynamically along with internet fluctuations, while ensuring that the stream remains uninterrupted. We also allow users to select bit rates and stream qualities according to their needs, to optimise their data use.

We have also formed partnerships with telcos across Africa to package our content with their data offers. It is a time of great innovation in the market.

Buffering and latency solutions 

A related technology challenge is latency issues, which will be familiar to anyone who has been watching live TV during a power outage. The streaming lags and buffering effects that often result can be a real inconvenience. To address this, we have implemented a low-latency solution with one of our partners. Again, the goal is for streaming to have the same latency quality as DTH or linear satellite TV.

In our approach to solving this, we set ourselves the goal of getting our buffering rate to below the industry standard in developed countries, which is 0.72%. The buffering rate represents the percentage of time that a device is buffering, instead of playing content. We have already achieved an average of 0.31% and we are confident of achieving further gains.

We are also working to optimise our configuration to ensure that our OTT platforms receive our stream before satellite receives the stream, to gain additional seconds, and compensate for the discrepancy.

If we are going to bring streaming into the mainstream, I believe it should have the same high-quality viewing experience as satellite.

Another technological discrepancy is lags in the content delivery times between DTH and streaming. We conducted a study of major international players in “first world” markets, and found that streaming delivery was often between 20 and 25 seconds behind satellite.

In our quest to align these two platforms, we have managed to get lags down to five seconds, and we are on course to drop them even further, so that our steaming speed is on par with our decoder broadcasts. This confirms that African streaming services are now among the global leaders in this space.

The next phase of innovation in the TV space is already upon us. Thanks to streaming innovation, the medium is now ubiquitous – accessible everywhere we go.

But for that transition to be real, for it to represent real evolution, we must use all the technology and expertise at our disposal to ensure streaming is as good, as fast, and as seamless as the technology that came before it. And even more entertaining!

Then, it becomes time for the next transition. And that process is already underway. It’s an exciting time for television.

Sola Oke Celebrates The Glenlivet’s 200th Anniversary, Unveils Rare Masterpiece

Sola Oke Celebrates The Glenlivet’s 200th Anniversary, Unveils Rare Masterpiece

 

In a momentous celebration of heritage and craftsmanship, Sola Oke, Managing Director at Pernod Ricard, recently reflected on the extraordinary experience of marking The Glenlivet’s 200th anniversary at the historic Speyside distillery. Oke, along with select customers from South Africa, had the privilege of immersing themselves in the rich legacy of The Glenlivet and other distinguished brands from the Chivas Brothers portfolio.

Speaking on the occasion, Oke emphasized the importance of giving customers an insider’s view of the craftsmanship behind these iconic brands. “To see is to understand,” he said, noting that the visit to the distillery deepened their appreciation for the meticulous process involved in creating each bottle that is enjoyed across Africa and the world. The Glenlivet, renowned globally for its excellence, has long been a benchmark in the whisky industry, and this milestone event underscored its standing.

One of the highlights of the celebration was the highly anticipated launch of the oldest and most ambitious expression from The Glenlivet—The Eternal Collection, First Edition: 55-Year-Old. This rare masterpiece, crafted in collaboration with renowned computational architect Michael Hansmeyer, represents a pinnacle of whisky-making, combining over half a century of expertise with cutting-edge design. The Glenlivet 55-Year-Old Eternal Collection is a limited-edition creation that not only showcases the finest in whisky craftsmanship but also pushes the boundaries of design and innovation.

Oke described the experience as “even more special” with the unveiling of this exquisite whisky, which celebrates excellence in every facet—from its taste to its stunning presentation. The Eternal Collection is a testament to The Glenlivet’s commitment to pushing the frontiers of whisky-making, bringing together the old-world art of distilling with futuristic architectural design.

Raising a toast to the future, Oke concluded with a sentiment of optimism: “Here’s to The Glenlivet and the next 200 years!” The event marked not just a celebration of a storied past, but also a vision for the next chapter in the brand’s illustrious history, as it continues to set the standard for quality and innovation in whisky.

Opinion: Temporary Sacrifices for Long-Term Gains

Opinion: Temporary Sacrifices for Long-Term Gains

By Roberta Edu

Unless you were born into wealth, building something tangible and extraordinary requires more than just hard work; it demands smart financial decisions. For those of us raised in average families, our journey to success involves making sacrifices and taking a different approach to money. It’s not just about hustling differently but about spending and investing with the future in mind.

Take a look around you. Many of your peers may be living a certain lifestyle, indulging in luxuries that seem tempting. But if you want financial stability, sometimes you have to step back, reduce your expenses, and make room for saving, planning, and investing. That’s the strategy that builds lasting wealth.

Recently, I had a chat with our financial manager, and he shared an interesting observation with one of my colleagues. He said, “I saw Madam Roberta walking to the market last weekend with her bagco bag. If someone saw her, they wouldn’t know who she is!” His wife, he said, wouldn’t even consider such a thing—she’d take an Uber if their car was unavailable. But that’s my life; I’m not one for unnecessary stress or excess.

This mentality extends to how my husband and I manage our finances as well. When my husband was ill, his colleagues visited him at a hospital near our home. They were surprised to learn we lived in Ojodu, asking, “Why would you live so far away?” It amused them because, in their minds, success meant living in Lekki. In fact, they once pushed him to buy a house there. After careful consideration, though, we decided to rent it out for better financial management. My husband jokes that our landlady has bewitched me, but the truth is, we know where to cut costs for the sake of our long-term goals.

Listening to successful entrepreneurs like Tony Elumelu has taught me that temporary sacrifices are essential to building something substantial. Every entrepreneur who has scaled a small business into a big one has echoed the same sentiment: comfort must be sacrificed, at least in the beginning, to achieve lasting success.

To all my fellow women, particularly those aiming for financial independence, this message is for you: I’m not saying you should dress poorly or compromise your appearance. We all want to look good, and that’s fine. But maybe that 3-million-naira wig isn’t for you right now. Maybe paying 10 million for rent, even though you can afford it, isn’t the smartest move. Maybe that luxury car with high maintenance costs can wait. Think long-term, and give yourself the space to grow financially strong.

The luxury and lifestyle you’re compromising today will become effortless for you in the future. Build a foundation for tomorrow by investing in your future today. The rewards will come, because today’s sacrifices are the seeds of tomorrow’s success.

 

Ainojie Alexander Irune Steps Down as President/CEO of Oando Clean Energy Ltd., Welcomes Ademola Ogunbanjo as Successor

Ainojie Alexander Irune Steps Down as President/CEO of Oando Clean Energy Ltd., Welcomes Ademola Ogunbanjo as Successor

Ainojie Alexander Irune Steps Down as President/CEO of Oando Clean Energy Ltd., Welcomes Ademola Ogunbanjo as Successor

In a significant leadership transition, Ainojie Alexander Irune, PhD, has announced his decision to step down as President and CEO of Oando Clean Energy Ltd. (OCEL) after an impressive four-year tenure. Dr. Irune, who also serves as Executive Director of Oando PLC and Managing Director of Oando Energy Resources, expressed profound pride and gratitude for his time at OCEL, highlighting the achievements the company has made under his leadership.

In a heartfelt message shared with stakeholders, Dr. Irune remarked, “After an incredible four years as President/CEO of Oando Clean Energy Ltd., I am stepping down with immense pride and gratitude but most of all delighted to welcome Ademola Ogunbanjo as the new President/CEO.” He emphasized Ogunbanjo’s exceptional leadership qualities, which he has observed firsthand during Ogunbanjo’s tenure as Vice President.

Dr. Irune lauded Ogunbanjo for his unwavering dedication, strategic brilliance, and deep commitment to OCEL’s vision of sustainable energy development. “Demola’s dedication continues to inspire us all,” he stated, noting that Ogunbanjo’s leadership style seamlessly integrates innovation and integrity, coupled with a comprehensive understanding of the industry’s evolving needs.

Under Dr. Irune’s leadership, OCEL made significant strides in advancing clean energy solutions and expanding its market presence. His tenure saw the company not only navigate the challenges posed by a rapidly changing energy landscape but also position itself as a leader in sustainable practices within the sector.

Looking ahead, Dr. Irune expressed his confidence in Ogunbanjo’s ability to lead OCEL into a new era of growth and innovation. “I look forward to watching OCEL flourish under his expert stewardship. Congratulations to a true leader and brother—well deserved!” he affirmed, indicating his belief that Ogunbanjo is well-equipped to continue the momentum built during his own presidency.

Ademola Ogunbanjo brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in leadership to his new role as President and CEO of Oando Clean Energy Ltd. His prior accomplishments as Vice President have garnered him respect and admiration from colleagues and industry peers alike, positioning him as an ideal successor to guide OCEL in its mission to drive sustainable energy solutions across Africa.

As Ogunbanjo steps into his new role, stakeholders and employees alike are optimistic about the future direction of OCEL. His leadership will be crucial as the company continues to adapt to the changing dynamics of the clean energy sector, striving to innovate and expand its offerings while remaining committed to environmental stewardship.

The transition marks a new chapter for Oando Clean Energy Ltd., and both Dr. Irune and Ogunbanjo’s contributions to the company highlight the importance of visionary leadership in achieving ambitious goals in the energy industry. As they continue to champion clean energy initiatives, all eyes will be on OCEL to see how it navigates the opportunities and challenges ahead under Ogunbanjo’s expert guidance.

 

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Dr. Peter O. Nwosu Becomes First Black President of State University of New York

Dr. Peter O. Nwosu Becomes First Black President of State University of New York

 

In a historic milestone, Dr. Peter O. Nwosu has been appointed as the first Black president of the State University of New York (SUNY), marking a significant moment for the 163-year-old institution. This achievement not only highlights Dr. Nwosu’s exceptional leadership capabilities but also underscores the increasing representation of Nigerians in influential academic roles.

Dr. Nwosu’s distinguished career includes previous positions as provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at the City University of New York’s Herbert H. Lehman College. He has also held similar roles at Clark Atlanta University and California State University, Fullerton, demonstrating a robust commitment to academic excellence and institutional leadership.

With a Ph.D. in communication studies from Howard University, Dr. Nwosu is a prolific scholar, having authored over 100 academic works throughout his career. His extensive experience and dedication to education are expected to guide SUNY towards greater innovation and inclusivity.

Let us celebrate Dr. Nwosu, a remarkable Nigerian talent, as he embarks on this new journey, paving the way for future generations in academia.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Babcock University: Leading the Way in World-Class Cybersecurity Training

Babcock University: Leading the Way in World-Class Cybersecurity Training

 

Babcock University, one of Africa’s premier institutions, has taken a groundbreaking step in advancing world-class cybersecurity education. Through its partnership with ThinkCyber Nigeria, Babcock has integrated cutting-edge technology to offer cybersecurity training that meets global standards.

The collaboration between Babcock School of Computing and Babcock Business School is delivering exceptional training, utilizing a cyber simulator-driven platform to prepare professionals for the evolving tech landscape. This initiative marks a significant milestone in bridging the gap between academia and the workplace, producing graduates equipped with practical skills and certifications that meet industry demands.

In January 2024, 34 third-year students embarked on their Industrial Training program, completing six months of intensive training and graduating as ThinkCyber Certified Cybersecurity Professionals. This was pioneered by Babcock University School of Computing under the leadership of the former Dean, Prof. Idowu Sunday, a Professor of Software Engineering currently on sabbatical at an Adventist University in Rwanda.

Under the leadership of Prof. Ishola Akintoye, Babcock Business School also launched an Advanced Professional Cyber Simulator Training in September 2024, designed to cater to Africa’s growing tech sector. The program has attracted both local and international MSc professionals in cybersecurity, offering them an unmatched opportunity to hone their skills.

The training at Babcock signals a new era in academic and industry collaboration, equipping professionals with both practical skills and certifications that integrate them into esteemed regulatory bodies like the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN). Additionally, the multi-vendor exposure—covering tools such as Elastic Search, SPLUNK, Snort, and Pfsense etc.

—ensures that participants are well-prepared to leverage career opportunities both locally and internationally.

Our alumni success stories speak volumes. Graduates of the program hit the ground running from their first day on the job and are positioned as Tier 2 Cybersecurity Professionals, seamlessly transitioning into the workforce. Explore their stories and see the impact of this training on their careers.

Basit Balogun, Cybersecurity Professional

I was introduced to ThinkCyber Nigeria during a seminar at my workplace, and since then, my experience with them has been extraordinary. From the initial sessions to the advanced Cyberium Arena challenges, each step of the journey has been truly transformative. The high quality of the modules exceeded my expectations, rapidly transitioning me from a cybersecurity novice to an enthusiast. The guidance and support from the ThinkCyber Nigeria faculty have been invaluable throughout. For anyone considering a career in cybersecurity or seeking to transition into the field, I highly recommend ThinkCyber Nigeria. Their comprehensive programs and dedicated instructors make them the ultimate choice for cybersecurity professionals. With ThinkCyber Nigeria, you’ll find everything you need to succeed in the field.

Oluwademilade Adeyemo, Cybersecurity Professional

Hello, I’m Oluwademilade Adeyemo, and I’m excited to share my experience at The Cyberium Arena with ThinkCyber Nigeria.

The Cyberium Arena isn’t just about studying—it’s about diving deep into the world of cybersecurity. Through hands-on projects and interactive learning, I’ve not only absorbed knowledge, but I’ve also discovered my passion for securing digital landscapes. The tech at Cyberium Arena? Absolutely mind-blowing. From virtual labs to immersive simulations, every tool made learning feel like an adventure. It’s like having a cyber playground where I can explore, experiment, and expand my skills.

Now, let’s talk about those scenario exams. They’re not your typical tests. In fact, they are real-world simulations that put your skills to the ultimate test.

The Cyberium Arena is more than just a training ground; it’s a launchpad for your career. Trust me, the journey is worth every second.

This program is not just about education; it’s about preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals to lead Africa and the world into a more secure digital future.

 

 

 

The training at Babcock signals a new era in academic and industry collaboration, equipping professionals with both practical skills and certifications that integrate them into esteemed regulatory bodies like the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN). Additionally, the multi-vendor exposure—covering tools such as Elastic Search, SPLUNK, Snort, and Pfsense etc.

 

Is Canada’s Healthcare System as Perfect as We Think?

Is Canada’s Healthcare System as Perfect as We Think?

 

I was recently struck by a story shared by Dr. Arinze Onwumelu, a Family Medicine physician based in Calgary, Alberta. Dr. Onwumelu, a graduate of the University of Nigeria Nsukka, is well-known not only for his professional skills but also for his candid takes on life. He doesn’t shy away from real issues and presents them without pretense—qualities that have made him a notable figure on Instagram.

In a recent video, Dr. Onwumelu shared an alarming experience that challenges the widespread belief in Canada’s healthcare superiority. He recounted the case of a woman in need of knee replacement surgery who was told she would have to wait three years to see a doctor. Yes, three years. The only other option was to dip into her savings and pay $30,000 CAD (equivalent to about 51 million Naira) to get the procedure done at a private facility. For those of us who have long held Canada’s healthcare system as a gold standard, this came as a shock.

We’re often led to believe that healthcare in Western countries like Canada is nearly flawless, well-funded by the state, and readily accessible. But Dr. Onwumelu’s story casts a shadow of doubt over this ideal. How is it that in a country celebrated for its healthcare system, a person can be left to suffer for years unless they can afford exorbitant private fees? This is Canada, after all—the same country many Nigerians dream of for its supposed better quality of life.

This revelation made me reflect on the situation back home in Nigeria. Yes, we face significant challenges in our healthcare system, from underfunding to poor infrastructure. But could it be that, despite these issues, we still enjoy certain privileges? Knee replacement surgery in one of Nigeria’s top private orthopedic hospitals, whether in Lagos, Abuja, or Enugu, wouldn’t cost as much as it does in Canada. In fact, it would likely come at a fraction of the price.

While Nigeria’s healthcare system is undeniably flawed, the story shared by Dr. Onwumelu highlights an important point: perhaps there’s more to healthcare than just moving to a Western country. Nigeria, with all its imperfections, may still offer some surprising advantages.

This brings me to the possibility of the future. Many Nigerian professionals, like Dr. Onwumelu, are training abroad and honing their skills. What if, years down the line, these individuals return home to establish world-class healthcare practices? Imagine Nigeria becoming a medical hub, much like India, where people from around the world come to receive top-notch care at competitive rates.

Of course, this is not just a dream that can be achieved overnight. It would require intentional leadership and policies that prioritize healthcare development. But if we can align our skills with the right vision, there’s no reason why Nigeria can’t one day be a destination for quality healthcare.

For now, Dr. Onwumelu’s story serves as a reminder that no system is perfect—not even in Canada.

— Onyekachi Okeh, 2024