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A4AI Names Johnson, Former CommTech Minster New Chair

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Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI) has announced that Dr. Omobola Johnson, the immediate past Minister of Communication Technology of Nigeria, has joined A4AI as its Honorary Chairperson.

Drawing on her 30 years of experience, Dr. Johnson will provide A4AI with strategic policy guidance and will lead high level international advocacy efforts, all designed to help the Alliance as it works to drive down unacceptably high broadband prices, and bring billions more online, fast.

A4AI is the world’s broadest technology sector coalition, with over 70 diverse members. Working closely with governments, companies and civil society, the Alliance uses a blend of research, advocacy and on-the-ground engagement to create policy and regulatory change that pushes broadband prices down.

In under two years, A4AI has doubled membership and started work in five countries on three continents (Dominican Republic, Ghana, Nigeria, Mozambique, Myanmar), meaning over 300 million people stand to benefit from the Alliance’s work. A4AI’s global sponsors are Google, UK DFID and USAID, and the World Wide Web Foundation serves as the secretariat. Other high-profile members include the Internet Society, MainOne, Microsoft, and UN Women.

An experienced ICT policy professional, Dr. Johnson brings to the role over 30 years of experience across both the private and public sectors. Between 2011 and 2015, she served as Nigeria’s Minister of Communication Technology, where she oversaw the creation and implementation of policy to enable affordable Internet, including the development and presentation of the country’s 2013-2018 National Broadband Plan.

During her time as Minister, the percentage of Internet users in the country nearly doubled from 24% (2010) to 43% (2014), and Nigeria became the first African country to join A4AI in 2013.

Prior to 2011, she spent over two decades at Accenture, including a five-year stint as country managing director for Nigeria.

Dr. Johnson holds a DBA from Cranfield University in the UK, and from 2014 to 2015 served as the Chair of the 18th session of the UN Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD). 

Remarking on her new role, Dr. Johnson said: “In this era of technological innovation, it is simply unacceptable that policies and regulations still conspire to keep Internet access unaffordable for billions. Today, an entry-level mobile broadband package costs the average African over 15% of their monthly earnings, while an average European would pay just 1%. That affordability gap helps to explain why over 80% of European households are online, compared to just 11% of African households.

“I’ve seen firsthand the incredible power of the Web to improve health, education, economic and development outcomes, particularly for women and rural populations, and I’ve also seen how smart, collaborative policymaking can drive prices down fast. Now, I’m excited to be able to use my experience and networks to accelerate the progress A4AI is already making.”

Sonia Jorge, A4AI executive director added: “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Omobola Johnson to the A4AI team. A long-time advocate of universal and affordable Internet access and active supporter of the Alliance’s work since our launch in 2013, Dr. Johnson brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge in the ICT field.

As Minister of Communication Technology in Nigeria, she achieved great success in developing the policy framework for the extension of broadband infrastructure, increasing competition and focusing on reaching the most marginalised, women and rural dwellers. These policy steps allowed prices to drop and more Nigerians to come online. We look forward to working together with Dr. Johnson to advance our work and goal of making affordable broadband for all a reality, and have no doubt she will make a significant contribution.”

Dr. Johnson replaces Dr. Bitange Ndemo, former Permanent Secretary of Kenya’s Ministry of Information and Communication, who served as A4AI Honorary Chair from the Alliance’s creation in October 2013 until 2014.


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E-Business

ISDL Achieves IMS Certification

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Integrated System and Devices Limited (ISDL), a major provider of electronic security solutions, is delighted to announce the successful attainment of ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018 certifications following a rigorous audit process conducted by Bureau Veritas Certification Holdings SAS-UK Branch.

ISDL Achieves IMS Certification

In 2021, ISDL bagged the Quality management systems ISO 9001:2015, and now in 2024, with unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, the occupational Health and Safety system ISO 45001:2018 and the Environmental management system ISO 14001:2015 have been consolidated to form an Integrated Management System.

These certifications, covering ISDL’s headquarters and branches, signify the company’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality management across all facets of its operations.

According to Oluseun Mabogunje, managing director of ISDL, the scope of the certifications encompasses the design, procurement, supply, installation, integration, maintenance, and after-sales support of various electronic security and Extra Low Voltage (ELV) equipment.

Mabogunje expressed his elation at receiving the IMS certifications, emphasizing ISDL’s dedication to delivering exceptional quality and service to its clientele. He emphasized that this achievement underscores the company’s ongoing pursuit of continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

 

 

 


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Cybervergent’s Q1 2024 Report Reveals Rising Threat of Remcos RAT Malware in Financial Sector

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Cybervergent, a foremost technology company providing automated cybersecurity solutions, in its Quarterly Brief has revealed a troubling trend in the financial sector that shows a spike in attacks utilising the deceptive Remote Control and Surveillance Access Trojan (Remcos RAT) in Q1, 2024.

The findings affirm a stark forewarning to the financial institutions and organisations in the African continent, urging heightened vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate potential escalating risks.

Previously marketed as a legitimate software, Remcos got co-opted by malicious actors and is now a prevalent tool in cybercrime campaigns. This remote access tool grants attackers hidden entry into victims’ devices, allowing them to seize control, pilfer sensitive data, and even introduce stealth backdoors to compromise entire systems. The capabilities of Remcos are diverse and frightening, ranging from disabling vital security features like User Account Control (UAC) to covertly recording user activities.

“As vigilant cybersecurity gatekeepers, we have observed a significant surge in attacks leveraging the Remcos RAT malware,” said Gbolabo Awelewa, the Chief Solutions Officer, Cybervergent. “Financial institutions are particularly targeted due to the sensitive nature of their data and assets. Organisations must remain diligent and adopt proactive monitoring measures to safeguard against such threats.”

The proactive approach adopted by Cybervergent’s Cyber Operations Centre involves meticulous analysis of attacker tactics, constant updating of threat intelligence, and implementing robust endpoint security solutions. These measures are designed to detect, prevent, and neutralise Remote Access Trojans like Remcos, ensuring the continued security and compliance of organisations in the face of evolving cyber threats.

“Our mission is to fortify our clients’ defenses and ensure the seamless operation of their organisations,” added Gbolabo. “By staying ahead of emerging attack vectors and vulnerabilities, we empower businesses to take proactive measures and protect their valuable assets.”

Looking ahead, Adetokunbo Omotosho, Chief Executive Officer of Cybervergent emphasised the firm’s focus on empowering organisations to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and compliance with dexterity and confidence.

“Cybervergent’s Assurance and Compliance Team has demonstrated unparalleled leadership in the cybersecurity domain, achieving significant milestones and delivering transformative solutions. Our journey through Q1 reflects a deep commitment to advancing the state of cybersecurity compliance, paving the way for a secure and resilient digital future for organisations in Africa and across the world”, he added.


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Konga Launches Free Same Day Deliveries on Starlink, Apple & Samsung Nationwide

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Konga, the only authorised shop-in-shop for Starlink Internet kits in Nigeria, is offering its customers free same day delivery across all major cities in the country.

With prices of Starlink Internet kits slashed by 50%, Konga is delivering additional value so that both homes and businesses in urban and remote places can enjoy infinite possibilities with their internet on both their standard and enterprise installations. This offer which is available both online and in its retail stores nationwide is exclusive to new and existing customers this month.

With the improvement in prices on both original standard and enterprise Starlink kits, customers can now enjoy a global warranty and direct installation services by purchasing only on Konga.

Since the launch of the partnership with the Elon Musk owned satellite internet provider, Nigerians have continued to celebrate the uninterrupted supply of fast and efficient cyber network services from the authentic devices available on Konga.

In addition to Starlink, other unique items from leading global companies such as Apple, HP, Lenovo, Samsung, Zinox, Philips, Intel and many more are available at unbeatable discounts in the Konga Tech Month from the 1st and will run till the 31st of May 2024.

The Konga Tech Month was extended from its traditional 7day promotion to 30days to give more people access to exclusive deals throughout the month. To enjoy these mouthwatering offers, visit konga.com or any of its physical outlets today.


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