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Develop ICT For a Better Economy –Akam

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Richard Emeka Akam, an accountant by profession is the managing director and chief executive officer of Victory Computer Technologies. Akam who has been in the IT Industry for over 15 years, was in 2007 appointed as the coordinator of Data Information Technologies Association of Nigeria (Ditan). In this interview with nkechi david-iwuchukwu, he spoke of his role in the “Arena” and other industry issues.

Ditan
Ditan simply means Data Information Technologies Association of Nigeria. The association came about because we wanted to bring about professional ethics as entrepreneurs who deal on ICT products, goods and services. Ditan as a voice to its members is an avenue to reach out to the people, an avenue to showcase professional expertise to the world, a platform to showcase activities of members and a channel to drive the wheel of progress of the members to the world at large. The association is open to all those who are in the business of buying and selling of ICT and allied products, consultancy of ICT and those who offer professional ICT services to its clientele. When I was appointed the coordinator of the association in 2007, I championed the course of my members to secure shops at the “Arena”, a multi purpose ultra modern shopping complex at Bolade bus stop, along Agege motor road in Lagos. The Arena is a one stop shopping complex with over 3,500 shops. These shops are segmented into different sections to include; Computer and GSM, Electronics and Accessories, Babies, Clothing, Wares, Beverages and Food Stuffs.
Role of Ditan in the Arena
Ditan as a body helped its members to secure shops at the Arena through a mortgage finance bank. In fact what happened was that Bank PHB financed our members for 100 shops. The 100 shops has been fully paid for by the bank but as I am talking to you now, only 51 shops out of the 100 shops have been allocated to our members and the remaining 49 is yet to be allocated to us. My members are not happy about this development, they are not satisfied with the manner in which the allocation was done in piece meal, hence those members that got allocated at the initial stage could not take off because they want all the members to be fully represented at the Arena since it was a collective project.
On The Part Of Bank PHB
Our members are thankful to the bank for their full financial backing in the Arena project but they are not happy with with the management of the Arena, because the interest from the bank is still running even when the allocation has not been completed. However, we are pleading with bank PHB to try and allocate the remaining 49 shops to our members.
On The Part Of The Arena Management
The management of the shopping complex should look into the cost implication of the project on individuals who have to pay back their loans with the interest on it and try to see that people are not ripped off. The initial cost should not be much, because if it is much, some people might not want to continue with the project and this will affect the take off of the shopping complex.

Missions and Visions of The Association
The missions and visions of the association includes; to foster and promote oneness, progress, equality and social justice among its members, and to promote and protect its members collective interest. Also the association will not relent in its effort to galvanize its members to be good ambassadors and to project its good image positively within and  outside the country. Like I mentioned earlier, membership of the association is open to any individual or firm engaged in the buying, selling and distribution of ICT and allied products, ICT consultancy and those who offer professional ICT services to its clientele.
Fake or Substandard Products
In Ditan, we are very transparent in our dealings in terms of products we sell to our numerous customers and the services we offer to them as well. We do not compromise in the quality of goods we sell and the services we render. I can say categorically that we do not indulge in the sales and services of fake or substandard products but generally speaking about fake or substandard products in the country, Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON), has a greater role to play than individuals and associations, because we are aware that there are goods not meant for this country that comes into it.
Quality of Products and Services
Like I said earlier, we do not compromise on the quality of products sold or services rendered because we ensure that our customers get value for their money. I must confess that a lot of big players in the ICT industry are members of Ditan.
Challenges confronting Ditan
Every association face challenges. In Ditan, the association is facing the challenge of finance, because the Arena environment is very conducive and meant for mature business because there are packing spaces for customers and also for members who bring in their containers, as they will off load without harassment from social miscreants popularly known as “area boys”. Also, There is no issue of traffic congestion, and that of street trading because the complex is strategically located.
ICT Growth
ICT industry is presently driven by private individual and there is an urgent need for the government to look inward, as it will fast track the much needed growth in the industry. The government should develop the ICT industry for a better economy, because if they show more concern in the industry like  reducing tariff on ICT products and accessories, so that the cost to final consumers can be reduced. But let us not forget that the ICT revolution has doubled the volume of business transactions in the industry.


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Karex, World’s Top Condom Maker to Hike Prices due to Iran war

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Karex, world’s largest condom maker, plans to raise prices by up to 30 percent due to supply disruptions linked to the Iran war.

Karex, World's Top Condom Maker to Hike Prices due to Iran war

This means that safe sex could get more expensive if the war continues to disrupt global supply chains, according to Goh Miah Kiat, CEO, Karex.

Kiat told old Reuters that rising freight costs and shipping delays have increased demand and forced the company to pass costs to customers.

Broader supply chain issues and higher oil prices could impact many everyday products that rely on petrochemicals.

“The situation is definitely very fragile, prices are expensive… We ​have no choice but to transfer the costs right now to ⁠the customers,” Goh told Reuters.

Karex joins a growing list of companies that are bracing for supply chain disruptions amid the ongoing war in Iran.

Based in Malaysia, Karex produces condoms, personal lubricants, gloves, medical catheters and probe covers.

The company manufactures male latex condoms including ONE, Trustex, Carex and Pasante, and it can produce over 5 billion condoms annually. Karex also exports to more than 130 countries, according to its website.

“We’re seeing a lot more condoms actually sitting on vessels that have not arrived at their destination but are highly required,” Goh said.

 


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Court Affirms FCCPC Authority over Consumer Protection

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Federal High Court in Abuja has upheld Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s (FCCPC) authority to investigate consumer complaints and enforce regulatory oversight in Nigeria.

Court Affirms FCCPC Authority over Consumer Protection

Tunji Bello, EVC/CEO, FCCPC

In a statement signed by Ondaje Ijagwu, director, Corporate Affairs, the Commission said that in the judgment delivered by James Omotosho on April 20, 2026, the court dismissed a suit filed by Air Peace Limited challenging the Commission’s statutory powers.

The ruling affirmed the Commission’s mandate under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018 to “receive complaints, assess matters brought before it, and take appropriate lawful steps, including investigation where necessary.”

Reacting to the decision, Tunji Bello, executive vice chairman and chief executive officer of the Commission, said; “the judgment reinforces the importance of regulatory oversight in safeguarding consumers and ensuring fair market practices.”

Bello explained that the case stemmed from complaints involving “unrefunded ticket fares, cancelled flights, and other service concerns affecting passengers.”

Bello stressed that consumers who pay for services are entitled to fair treatment, transparency, and redress in accordance with applicable law.

He also said that investigations conducted by the Commission are administrative processes aimed at establishing facts.

“It does not amount to a finding of liability or wrongdoing,” he said.

The FCCPC boss further reiterated the agency’s commitment to due process and constructive engagement with businesses, noting that the Commission would continue to operate in a “fair, professional, and transparent manner.”

Bello also urged companies operating in Nigeria to cooperate with lawful regulatory procedures and strengthen internal complaint resolution mechanisms to address consumer grievances promptly.

The Commission said it will continue to act within its statutory mandate to protect consumers, promote competitive markets, and build confidence in key sectors, including aviation.

 


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UK-Nigeria Trade Mission Builds on State Visit Momentum to Drive Commercial Outcomes

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L-r: Atam Sandhu, Chief Executive, DMA Invest; Steve Grey OBE, UK Export Finance Lead; Dr Richard Montgomery, British High Commissioner to Nigeria; Aisha Rimi, Chief Executive, Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission; Ayo Sotinrin, MD/Chief Executive Nigeria's Bank of Agriculture (BoA), and Lovina Kayode, Director, Investor Relations, Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission, at the UK-Nigeria Trade mission in Abuja, yesterday.
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Underscoring the strength of the UK-Nigeria strategic partnership, the UK has completed its first trade and investment mission to Nigeria since the recent State Visit, focused on turning high‑level agreements into practical commercial opportunities for businesses in both countries.

Supported by the UK Department for Business and Trade and delivered by DMA Invest in partnership with the Nigeria Investment Promotion Council (NIPC), the 2-day trade mission brought together 43 delegates from 30 British companies to build partnerships, deepen commercial engagement and pursue new opportunities across priority sectors with their Nigerian counterparts.

With trade between both countries now at a record £8.1 billion, and Nigeria established as the UK’s largest export market in Africa, the mission highlighted where UK expertise can add the more value to Nigeria’s reform‑driven economy.

Opportunities discussed spanned key sectors such as infrastructure; energy and power; water, environment and climate solutions; agriculture; finance and professional services; testing and certification standards; logistics and supply chains; and technology, including education, aviation and communications.

These sectors align closely with the priorities set out under the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP) and reflect areas where UK capability, high standards and long‑term partnership approaches are well matched to Nigeria’s evolving market needs.

The mission also focused on challenging outdated perceptions of Nigeria, highlighting its shift towards a high‑potential, reforming economy, and energising businesses around new commercial opportunities supported by an improving macroeconomic outlook.

It encouraged UK and Nigerian firms to recognise complementary strengths and pursue new partnerships, reinforcing the message that both countries are open for business and natural partners for growth.

Dr Richard Montgomery, British High Commissioner to Nigeria, said: “This trade mission is a clear signal of intent. As the first UK business delegation to Nigeria since the State Visit, it shows how we are turning strong political alignment into real commercial action and long‑term partnerships for businesses in both countries.

“By bringing together UK companies and Nigerian partners across priority sectors and working closely with DMA Invest and the Nigeria Investment Promotion Council, we are backing ambition with delivery and making clear that the UK is committed, engaged and ready to do business with Nigeria for the long term.”

Aisha Rimi, Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission, said: “This trade mission represents a timely and strategic step in translating the renewed momentum from the UK–Nigeria State Visit into tangible investment outcomes for Nigeria. At the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission, we are focused on facilitating partnerships that align with our national priorities and unlock value across key sectors of the economy.

The strong interest from UK companies reflects growing confidence in Nigeria’s reforms and its position as a leading investment destination in Africa. We remain committed to working closely with our partners to ensure that these engagements result in sustainable investments, job creation, and inclusive economic growth for both countries.”

Ronald Chagoury Jr. Vice-Chairman of Hitech and ITB, said: “As long-standing investors and operators in Nigeria’s infrastructure sector, Hitech and ITB are proud to support this UK–Nigeria Trade Mission and its focus on delivering tangible commercial outcomes.

“The successful close of a $1 billion ports transaction, backed by UK Export Finance, reflects both our execution capability and the strength of international partnerships when aligned with national priorities. We see this as a pivotal step in advancing Nigeria’s port infrastructure and a strong signal of confidence in the country’s reform agenda under the Renewed Hope framework.”

Atam Sandhu, Chief Executive, DMA Invest, said: “This UK–Nigeria Trade Mission demonstrates the value of bringing government, investors and delivery partners together in a structured, deal-focused environment. Our role is to convene the right stakeholders and translate strategic alignment into practical commercial outcomes.

The quality of engagement across infrastructure, energy, finance and related sectors reflects the depth of opportunity in Nigeria and the UK’s commitment to long-term partnership. We are proud to have supported this mission alongside the UK Department for Business and Trade and NIPC, and to help accelerate conversations that move projects closer to investment and delivery.”

All 43 delegates from 30 British companies participated in the UK-Nigeria Business Forum alongside senior representatives from the UK and Nigerian Governments, Nigerian businesses and the wider private sector.

The forum provided a platform for direct engagement with Nigerian companies, practical discussions, relationship‑building and the exploration of new partnerships aligned with Nigeria’s reform‑driven priorities.

This mission marks an important step in deepening the UK-Nigeria economic partnership. By strengthening relationships, building confidence and supporting deal‑making, it ensures that the momentum from the State Visit continues to translate into sustained commercial outcomes, long‑term investment and shared growth.


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