Empowering the Girl Child Through Education: Meet Nneka Ikediashi, a Shining Role Model

Empowering the Girl Child Through Education: Meet Nneka Ikediashi, a Shining Role Model

In a world where education remains a critical tool for empowerment, the success story of Nneka Ikediashi serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the girl child across Nigeria and beyond. Her academic achievements have not only set new records but have also demonstrated the transformative power of education, especially for young girls.

Nneka Ikediashi, a 2022/2023 graduate from Ambrose Alli University, has earned the prestigious title of Overall Best Graduating Student of her class. With a remarkable first-class degree from the Faculty of Law, she achieved the highest Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) ever recorded in the faculty’s 40-year history, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in the institution’s academic annals.

But her journey to the top wasn’t just about academics; Nneka also made a profound impact on the university’s legal community. She served as the Chief Judge of the AAU LAWSAN JURAL Court, a role that showcased her leadership and judicial prowess, while reflecting her dedication to upholding justice within the university’s student body. Her contributions were not just legal but also symbolic of her commitment to mentoring and inspiring others, particularly her female counterparts.No alt text provided for this image

Nneka’s outstanding achievements underscore the importance of having role models for young girls in education. In a society where girls often face unique challenges in their pursuit of knowledge, Nneka’s success story is a testament to the boundless possibilities that come with determination, hard work, and the right support system. Her journey offers hope that, with proper guidance, mentorship, and role models, more girls can rise to the pinnacle of academic and professional excellence.

 

As we reflect on her record-breaking performance, let’s celebrate Nneka Ikediashi for being a cerebral, driven, and inspiring young woman—a true embodiment of the potential within every girl who dares to dream. Her journey is a powerful reminder that education remains the key to unlocking limitless opportunities, and her success is a shining example of what the future holds when girls are empowered to lead.

Celebrating Nneka Ikediashi’s brilliance is not just a recognition of her personal accomplishments but a call to action for society. It reminds us that when girls are given the opportunity to excel, they can not only match but surpass expectations. Her story encourages families, communities, and institutions to prioritize girl child education, fostering a generation of young women equipped to lead, innovate, and break barriers.

As we reflect on her record-breaking performance, let’s celebrate Nneka Ikediashi for being a cerebral, driven, and inspiring young woman—a true embodiment of the potential within every girl who dares to dream. Her journey is a powerful reminder that education remains the key to unlocking limitless opportunities, and her success is a shining example of what the future holds when girls are empowered to lead.

Let’s celebrate Nneka Ikediashi, a role model for every aspiring girl child in Nigeria and beyond!

NOTAP Director General Hosts Key Stakeholders to Strengthen Nigeria’s Science and Technology Ecosystem

NOTAP Director General Hosts Key Stakeholders to Strengthen Nigeria’s Science and Technology Ecosystem

 

In a bid to foster collaboration and ensure inclusive development within Nigeria’s Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem, the Director General of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), Dr. Barr. Obiageli Edith Amadiobi, recently welcomed high-profile stakeholders in Abuja. This meeting underscores her commitment to an open-door policy, aimed at bringing key players together to drive STI growth in Nigeria.

Among the attendees were Prof. Friday Okonofua, Secretary General of the African Academy of Sciences (AAS); Dr. Henry Emejuo, Director General of the Pan African Association of Small and Medium Industries (PAOSMI); and Barr. Chidi Udekwe, President of Otu Oka-Iwu Abuja (Igbo Lawyers).

The visiting dignitaries extended their congratulations to Dr. Amadiobi on her appointment as NOTAP’s Director General. They also expressed their shared enthusiasm to collaborate with the agency in advancing science and technology both in Nigeria and across Africa.

This meeting marks a significant step toward the enhancement of innovation-driven policies and strategies, crucial for Africa’s socio-economic transformation through science and technology.

 

NNPC/Seplat JV’s “Eye Can See” Programme Restores Vision, Hope in Imo

NNPC/Seplat JV’s “Eye Can See” Programme Restores Vision, Hope in Imo

 

 

The NNPC Ltd/ Seplat Energy Joint Venture (JV) partnership has conducted a medical outreach, providing free eye health services to individuals with visual impairments in Ohaji/Egbema community of Imo State.

Through its “Eye Can See” programme, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the JV dispensed more than 10,000 reading glasses and successfully performed 639 eye surgeries, including cataract removals, for host community members who otherwise had limited access to such vital medical services.

The “Eye Can See” programme, which commenced in 2017, has been a beacon of hope in the eastern asset of the NNPC Upstream Investments, positively impacting over 20,000 people to date.

In his remarks during the event, Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Bala Wunti, represented by Dr. Obinna Otuu, Manager, JV Asset B emphasized the significance of the initiative to NNPC Ltd’s corporate mission of enriching the lives of Nigerians.

Elaborating further on the broader vision behind the programme, Wunti stated that the NNPC Ltd. takes pride in being more than just an energy provider. “We are a partner in progress, dedicated to making sustainable contributions to the communities that support us,” he added.

According to him, the “Eye Can See” initiative reflects “our belief that corporate structures can and should play a vital role in societal development.”

He noted that the programme goes beyond immediate medical care by educating individuals on lifestyle choices to prevent conditions like hypertension and diabetes, which can lead to permanent vision loss.

Expressing his appreciation for the support of the local government, beneficiaries, and NNPC Ltd’s partners, Wunti observed that together with Seplat, the National Oil Company is paving the way for a brighter future where access to essential health services is possible for all.

“This project is not just about restoring vision; it is about giving people hope and the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives. This year’s outreach in Ohaji/Egbema is a testament to the ongoing commitment of NNPC Ltd. and Seplat to improve the quality of life in their host communities,” he affirmed.

The “Eye Can See” initiative has had a profound impact on the communities it serves. By providing free eye screenings, surgeries, reading glasses, and health education, the programme has transformed lives and restored hope to many who had been suffering from visual impairments.

NNPC/Seplat JV remains dedicated to contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s development through initiatives like the “Eye Can See” programme. The partnership is committed to expanding the reach of its CSR programmes, ensuring that even more people across Nigeria can benefit from the life-changing services.

 

MINISTER OF DEFENCE URGES ARMY WAR COLLEGE GRADUATES TO PRIORITIZE NATIONAL SECURITY UNDER RENEWED HOPE AGENDA

MINISTER OF DEFENCE URGES ARMY WAR COLLEGE GRADUATES TO PRIORITIZE NATIONAL SECURITY UNDER RENEWED HOPE AGENDA

 

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has called on the graduates of the Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) Course 8/2024 to prioritize national security, aligning their efforts with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Abuja, the Minister applauded the participants’ commitment during the 35-week intensive training program, which focused on national security, military strategy, and operational leadership. He stressed the importance of their newfound knowledge in shaping Nigeria’s future security landscape.

In his keynote address, the Minister, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, praised the graduates for their resilience, stating, “It is a great honour to stand before you at this significant milestone. Your journey, marked by intellectual growth and personal sacrifice, is a testament to your dedication to excellence.”

Minister Badaru emphasized the evolving role of the graduates, noting their transition from tactical to operational and strategic leaders within Nigeria’s Armed Forces. He highlighted leadership as the cornerstone of military service, urging them to inspire and guide their subordinates toward achieving common goals.

“Leadership transcends orders; it requires inspiring others. You are now equipped to navigate the complexities of the global security landscape,” the Minister said.

Addressing the challenges ahead, the Minister called on the graduates to lead with integrity, courage, and compassion, underscoring the unpredictable nature of modern security threats. “The world is evolving, and the challenges you will face are increasingly complex. I urge you to meet these challenges with confidence and determination,” he advised.

The Minister extended his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast support of the Nigerian military, and acknowledged the contributions of the Chief of Army Staff, the College’s Governing Board, the Commandant, faculty members, and the families of the graduates.

He concluded by congratulating the graduates, expressing his confidence in their ability to serve Nigeria with distinction. “Your future is bright, and I have no doubt you will uphold the highest standards of service to our nation.”

Menxtt Technology NG Introduces Comprehensive Tech Support Service for Nigerian Businesses

Menxtt Technology NG Introduces Comprehensive Tech Support Service for Nigerian Businesses

 

 

Menxtt Technology NG, a fast-growing indigenous technology start-up, is expanding its portfolio of tech services to include a comprehensive Tech Support Service for organizations. Specializing in web and software development, Menxtt Technology NG is now offering businesses an eco-conscious and efficient solution for managing and repairing their tech devices, helping reduce electronic waste (e-waste) and lower carbon footprints.

With growing concerns about e-waste and its harmful environmental impact, Menxtt Technology NG’s new Tech Support Service provides organizations an opportunity to extend the lifespan of their devices through repair and maintenance, rather than discarding them prematurely. This initiative not only supports sustainable practices but also aligns with the global movement to reduce carbon footprints by reusing and fixing devices instead of contributing to the increasing problem of e-waste.Broken Laptop, HD Png Download , Transparent Png Image - PNGitem

The Tech Support Service operates on a simple and affordable token system that allows organizations to register their devices for ongoing maintenance. Whether it’s laptops, desktops, smartphones, printers, or scanners, Menxtt Technology NG has a team of experienced technicians ready to repair and return these devices quickly and efficiently. The service covers everything from hardware repairs to troubleshooting and system updates.

“Our goal is to provide organizations with a hassle-free solution to their tech needs while also contributing to a greener environment,” said Anthony Nwosu, Principal Partner and Business Development Manager of Menxtt Technology NG. “By fixing and maintaining devices, businesses not only save on costs but also play a role in reducing e-waste and minimizing their carbon footprints. It’s a win-win for both businesses and the planet.”

Organizations can easily access this service by reaching out via email at menxtt.ng@gmail.com or calling the dedicated helpline at 08028931940. The team at Menxtt Technology NG is committed to delivering high-quality tech support, ensuring that businesses stay productive with minimal disruptions while contributing to sustainability efforts.

About Menxtt Technology NG

Menxtt Technology NG is a Nigeria-based start-up that specializes in providing cutting-edge tech services, including web development, software development, and now tech support. Their mission is to empower businesses with seamless, sustainable technology solutions that enhance productivity while promoting environmental responsibility. Menxtt Technology NG is committed to offering reliable and affordable tech services to organizations across Nigeria, contributing to both business success and environmental conservation.

 

NCC Strengthens Strategic Partnership with Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria

NCC Strengthens Strategic Partnership with Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria

 

In a significant move to foster intersectoral collaboration, Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), recently hosted a high-level delegation from the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN). The visit marked a renewed effort to deepen the longstanding relationship between the two institutions, with discussions centered around enhancing technological synergy between Nigeria’s telecommunications and banking sectors.

At the heart of the meeting were pivotal issues such as interbank settlement, which is increasingly reliant on seamless communication networks, and the strengthening of communications support services for financial institutions. As technology continues to reshape the banking landscape, both parties acknowledged the importance of reliable and advanced telecommunications infrastructure in supporting financial transactions and ensuring secure, efficient interbank settlements.

During the discussions, the CIBN delegation emphasized the need for robust communication services to support the growing demand for digital banking and financial inclusion initiatives. They noted that the expansion of mobile and digital banking services in Nigeria requires not only financial sector innovations but also the active support of the telecommunications industry to deliver reliable and accessible services to customers across the country.

Dr. Maida reaffirmed NCC’s commitment to collaborating with key sectors like banking to drive national development. He highlighted the critical role that telecom infrastructure plays in enabling Nigeria’s financial ecosystem, stressing that the NCC is continuously investing in infrastructure upgrades and regulatory reforms to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving digital economy.

The meeting also explored potential areas for future collaboration, particularly in fintech innovations, cybersecurity, and data protection, all of which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s banking system in the face of emerging digital threats. Both the NCC and CIBN expressed optimism that their enhanced partnership would not only address immediate challenges but also set the stage for greater technological integration that will benefit consumers and the economy as a whole.

The visit represents another step in NCC’s broader strategy to foster collaboration across sectors, ensuring that Nigeria remains at the forefront of digital transformation while building a resilient, technology-driven economy.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Data Privacy Workshop for the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) Held in Ottawa, Canada

Data Privacy Workshop for the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) Held in Ottawa, Canada

 

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) recently participated in a Data Privacy Workshop organized by Aajimatics Technologies in Ottawa, Canada. The training centered around the Canadian Privacy Law Primer, equipping attendees with valuable knowledge on privacy regulations.

Facilitated by Shaun Brown, a lawyer specializing in regulatory matters, the workshop covered essential aspects of privacy legislation across public, private, and health sectors. Brown provided in-depth insights into both federal and provincial privacy laws, emphasizing their significance in ensuring data protection and privacy rights.

Among the attendees were Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of NDPC; Mr. Solomon Odole, Project Coordinator of ID4D; and staff members from NDPC, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), and Nigeria’s ID4D initiative.

The workshop served as a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, enhancing participants’ understanding of data protection practices and privacy legislation in Canada, which can be applied to strengthen Nigeria’s own data protection framework.

NETSCOUT SHOWCASES CYBERSECURITY SOLUTIONS FOR AFRICA’S MOBILE NETWORK OPERATORS AT MWC KIGALI 2024

NETSCOUT SHOWCASES CYBERSECURITY SOLUTIONS FOR AFRICA’S MOBILE NETWORK OPERATORS AT MWC KIGALI 2024

NETSCOUT SYSTEMS, INC. (NASDAQ: NTCT), a leading provider of performance management, cybersecurity and DDoS attack protection solutions, is proud to announce its participation at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Kigali 2024, taking place from 29 to 31 October at the Kigali Conference Center. As Africa’s largest and most influential connectivity event, MWC Kigali will convene industry leaders, innovators and policymakers from across the continent, to explore how mobile technology is driving the digital economy and enabling socio-economic growth.

 

During the event, NETSCOUT will focus on educating delegates about its comprehensive solutions for the mobile sector, emphasising the importance of cybersecurity in light of new operational challenges faced by mobile network operators with the move to 5G-enabled broadband connectivity.

Bryan Hamman, regional director for Africa at NETSCOUT, explains that the first current challenge for the market is a more distributed network perimeter, brought about by rapidly growing 4G and 5G data traffic, which in turn hinders visibility.

“Traffic is increasing over the network both internally, from IoT devices, gaming and expanded wireless service offerings, as well as externally, from sources such as botnets, heavy users and junk. This makes it exponentially harder to gain actionable visibility into traffic activity at scale, while also exposing users and devices to traffic that is potentially malicious.”

The second challenge, according to Hamman, is increasing activities and their related risks, such as the growth of fixed wireless access as a competitive alternative to wired broadband, and the proliferation of IoT. “The network is affected from a performance point of view and can be costly from a resource perspective.”

To demonstrate to MWC Kigali delegates the ease with which these areas of concern can be resolved, NETSCOUT will showcase its advanced adaptive DDoS protection solution, Sightline, which is able to detect all types of DDoS attacks from flow data, and proactively identify broader ranges of attacks that are often missed. In addition, NETSCOUT will present Omnis Cyber Intelligence, a comprehensive solution that offers deep visibility into cyber threats, enabling operators to rapidly detect and respond to emerging vulnerabilities.

Hamman comments on the importance of the event from a regional perspective: “As the continent’s largest connectivity event, MWC Kigali provides a platform for NETSCOUT to help Africa’s mobile operators to gauge and improve their security posture – particularly critical in light of the increasing cyberthreats targeting the telecommunications industry across the region.”

According to NETSCOUT’s Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Threat Intelligence Report for the second half of 2023, wired and wireless telecommunications carriers were the two most targeted sectors within the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region, with satellite and all other telecommunications organisations at numbers four and five of the most targeted industries list.

“It’s clear that, with the telecommunications industry facing heightened risks, particularly in Africa, where networks are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals, NETSCOUT’s solutions are more crucial than ever. Our participation at MWC Kigali reinforces NETSCOUT’s commitment to helping African organisations protect their networks and maintain operational resilience.”

To learn more about how NETSCOUT can help improve your operational resilience, visit us at MWC Kigali 2024 from 29 to 31 October at stand D4 (Concourse). Meet local NETSCOUT experts, explore our advanced cybersecurity solutions, and discover how we are empowering Africa’s mobile network operators to stay ahead of evolving threats. Don’t miss the opportunity to safeguard your network for the future.

Women Affairs Ministry to Partner with WEMA Bank on Empowerment Initiatives for 500,000 Females

Women Affairs Ministry to Partner with WEMA Bank on Empowerment Initiatives for 500,000 Females

 

The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs is set to partner with WEMA Bank Plc on various empowerment initiatives aimed at improving the lives of 500,000 women across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones. These initiatives, to be executed through the Ministry’s women cluster arrangement, will focus on skill acquisition, agriculture, the provision of grants and loans, and the allocation of part of WEMA Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to women-centric programs.

Barrister (Mrs.) Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, revealed this during a meeting with officials from WEMA Bank and its partners on Monday at her office. The meeting centered on planning the partnership, which aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, targeting poverty reduction, unemployment, and nationwide improvement in living standards.

The Minister emphasized that empowering women economically is essential in addressing societal issues such as poverty, early marriages, and domestic violence. With women and children comprising 70% of Nigeria’s population, skill acquisition, access to grants and loans, and the provision of business tools for women will lead to significant, positive outcomes, she explained.

She added that the Ministry is committed to fostering an enabling environment for women’s empowerment, especially at the grassroots level, through initiatives such as farming, food processing, and tailoring. By focusing on these areas, the nation could witness a decrease in school dropouts, sexual and gender-based violence, and early marriages, as empowered women will contribute to the economic growth and development of their families and the country as a whole.

Kennedy-Ohanenye urged WEMA Bank and other stakeholders to prioritize women’s empowerment in their programs, stating that it is key to securing a brighter future for Nigeria.

Earlier, WEMA Bank’s Managing Director, Mr. Moruf Oseni, represented by Executive Director, Retail and Digital, Mr. Tunde Mabawonku, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to partnering with the Ministry through its MOWA-SARA accelerator program. He assured that WEMA Bank would dedicate a portion of its CSR initiatives to women-focused projects aimed at enhancing the economic status of Nigerian women.

SERVICOM Urges NCFRMI to Synergize with Stakeholders for Effective Service Delivery

SERVICOM Urges NCFRMI to Synergize with Stakeholders for Effective Service Delivery

 

The SERVICOM Office in the Presidency has called on the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to become a world-class humanitarian organization that is vibrant, efficient, and effective in protecting, assisting, and delivering sustainable solutions to persons of concern.

Mrs. Nnenna Akajemeli, the National Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer (NC/CEO) of SERVICOM Presidency, made this statement at the inauguration of the Parastatal SERVICOM Unit/Committee (PSU/PSC) of NCFRMI in Abuja on Monday, September 30th, 2024.

Akajemeli emphasized the importance of NCFRMI fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, including migrants, internally displaced persons (IDPs), local communities, non-governmental organizations, civil society, and the private sector.

“The primary purpose of government is to improve the quality of life for every Nigerian citizen,” she said, explaining that NCFRMI was established to coordinate the National Action Plan for the protection and assistance of refugees, asylum seekers, returnees, stateless persons, IDPs, and migrants—referred to as persons of concern to the Commission.

She also highlighted the importance of the Commission’s mandate, which includes facilitating the restoration of communities displaced by ecological factors, eliminating irregular migration, and promoting orderly migration for Nigerians. Additionally, the Commission is tasked with supporting state governments in creating and maintaining an updated register of IDPs.

Mrs. Akajemeli further explained that SERVICOM, an initiative of the Federal Government, was established to promote effective and efficient service delivery across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in Nigeria, ensuring customer satisfaction and bridging performance-expectation gaps between the government and its citizens.

She outlined SERVICOM’s mandates, which include coordinating MDAs in developing and implementing quality service charters, conducting independent surveys on customer satisfaction, and raising citizens’ expectations for satisfactory services from public institutions.

The National Coordinator commended the NCFRMI’s management for embedding a culture of continuous improvement in delivering quality and timely services.

In his remarks, the Honourable Federal National Commissioner for NCFRMI, Honourable Tijani Aliyu Ahmed, represented by Mallam Bello M. Bello, Director of the Human Resources Management Department, acknowledged the immense challenges faced by displaced populations. He stressed the need for the Commission to remain at its best to address their needs.

“We must not only respond to their immediate needs for shelter, food, and security but also ensure our processes are fair, inclusive, and designed to restore their dignity, in line with the principle of ‘Do No Harm,’” he said.

He added that the inauguration of the SERVICOM Unit is not just a service mechanism but also a clear message that the Commission is committed to serving with excellence. “We will continue to provide assistance with compassion, dedication, and integrity to Nigerian citizens,” he concluded.