General News
Cisco Believes ‘The Internet is Everything’-Sullivan
Den Sullivan is the head, Architectures and Enterprise, Emerging Market, Cisco. He joined Cisco and the IT Architecture Group in year 2000. Prior to joining Cisco, Sullivan held a number of management positions in utilities, public sector and consulting.
He has played major role as CIO for a sales region that spanned Latin America, the Middle East and Eastern Europe and was responsible for several large-scale advanced technology programmes including the initial portfolio of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), Wireless and IP telephony services.
Peter ugwu was at the recent launch of Cisco Unified Access Solution held in Lagos where Sullivan spoke on the monumental achievement made by Cisco in converging wired and wireless networks.
The Mega Trend in Network and Connectivity
Anybody working in the information technology environment would be familiar with three major changes in the industry in the recent times: Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), Cloud Computing and the Big Data.
A lot of people now have multiple devices; not just to use them in a familiarized environment, thus the proliferation has moved to the working environment.
A lot of people-Smartphone, Tablet or Notes; generally, consumers are buying phones with more computing power.
They want to bring them to the working environment because they are familiar with the operations, they enjoy using them, and so they are comfortable with them.
Gone are the days when people are recruited, particularly in IT companies and are told to seat at a particular place with provided personal computer or other devices. Nowadays, people want to work the way they want to using their devices; to have the experience through the mobility.
They want to work when they want to not tied to a desk; in the ‘70s it used to be that fax, telephone and PC, that era is behind us.
The Post PC era, the phone factor has completely changed it.
We also talk about cloud as another way to create efficiency and have access to greater services; although, it depends on what sector you are in.
Cloud is an utopia for you when you are in the IT world or hybrid cloud to optimize your applications or do you want to build your service; for instance an accounting package for your banking service or do you want to take application from the vendors to simply create your package, absolutely, all the things about your intellectual property, you might require a cloud to have it secured and network to have access to them.
All that mentioned above revolves round data.
There is a big thing happening in the industry about data. With all the devices in place with more coming in, about 210 billion emails are sent every day, increasingly download from application stores, a seamless storage capacity is needed to have this huge downloads function optimally.
Cisco’s Believe in ‘The Internet is Everything’
Talking about the mega trends and existing opportunities for individuals and organisations to develop further it may interest us to know that as at today, 99% of the world remains unconnected. That means one per cent is actually connected.
That is a huge phenomenal opportunity. It may not necessarily be about that Cisco, but our products entail more opportunities we are creating for people, organisations and nations.
We are in the business of changing networks; for healthcare, education and commercial reasons.
Imagine the ability to connect everything within the hospital, the fastening of processes and more so, the better health-care people can get. For us, it is achievable.
Cisco is also trying to change how we live work and play alone. We are particularly interested in knowing when you get connected and what it can do for you.
Imagine a world where ‘the internet is everything’ you would have been connected to the airline server and when you go to bed around 10pm and set you alarm at 8:15am, where my alarm code changes because the flight was delayed and I receive a notification, then I can stay in the bed for the next two hours.
That is internet at work. That singular trigger offers you bundle of opportunities-you can drive your children to school, do some other things; it is like having extra two hours of your life back.
Very simple phenomena we have today can generate huge benefits to the world. So, I can connect to the airline through a simple app.
We received a recent announcement from a diapers company; every time the baby pees they get a tweet which rises from a need to change the baby’s diaper quick enough.
Recently, Cisco carried out a survey and people are enthusiastic of having driverless cars.
At a time I needed my eyeglasses I asked myself, how do people find know they need their eyeglasses? And I found out that we can actually have an application that connects with our eyeglasses that will help us identify where we dropped the glasses and when it is needed.
There are a lot of things to think about and develop alongside helping our daily lives or grow the economy. These ride on the back of the network.
I will argue that network has never been more relevant than it has been today and it will continue to increase in relevance hence technological development continues.
Today, one’s Smartphone, Tables, Notes, Ultra-Books, laptop and others are relevant when they are connected; you need the social media, apps, etc to move on.
Cisco’s Unified Access Solution
Statistics indicate that by 2014, 90% of organisations will allow personal devices for work use, while 100% of organisations are struggling to keep up with mobility trends.
The question is, why are they struggling? The trending issue is security of data.
On individual level, you can move to any apps store and have access to sensitive document, but the next requirement is how you protect them.
It is not just about hacking and cyber security, it about the amount of breaches that happen inside the network from your end involving your workforce.
It is all about managing data, intellectual property; at government level, it could be managing public documents, national security, taxation, it could be about patient’s records. In the employment sector it could be about managing your product.
Before now, it was a desk with PC and telephone on it, now the emphasis is on BYOD. We have seen companies deny workers access to social network like paying games, during work hours, with Cisco technology we can allow you access to the network but your access to games will be tuned off. That makes the difference.
There are various reasons workers may need to have access to the social networks during work hours, but then, games are out of it. What Cisco is giving is a choice.
There are evidences of facebook being used by recruitment or HR department(s) belongs to different companies, twitter used by the marketing department, all of this have varied roles with organisations.
So, Unified Access Product is a solution that has unique features that offers the biggest significant shift in switching in the last ten years.
It is major breakthrough that will aid IT department of various organisation have seamless convergence of wired and wireless network access.
The differentiation will offer single platform, networking for wide visibility for faster troubleshooting, consistent security of quality of service (QoS) control, enables users to maximise resiliency with the fastest data recovery that contains layered network of high availability design and scale with distributed wired and wireless data plane.
The data plane is made of up of 480G stack bandwidth; 40G wireless/switch efficient multicast.
Is it Integrateable to Existing Infrastructure?
Certainly, it is integratable, no issue is there; but it depends on your industry and what you are looking to achieve through this platform.
For instance, a bank may be offering both wireless and wired network services within its branch; first, to its employees.
Now, why not extends it to the people that come do business or service oriented deals with you.
Presently, banks still deal with a lot of paper work when someone wants to open a bank account with them, at the same time, there is a bank that gives out iPad to the customers to transact business with them.
That bank is the biggest accounts for more voice service more than the local telecom network provider, because on their solution they allowed customers to make voice calls to them. Also, there is a voice call among the employees.
Imagine that bank offering wireless service, before they used to turn all the wireless traffic back to the headquarters, which will be too challenging.
With this product, you can put that in the bank; produce both the wired and wireless services without that transaction going back to your data center.
And it depends on your life circle, what your business is doing, the challenges and more product service you need.
Security
There is a solution imbedded in the product that gives the ultimate security. However, security is a portfolio that cannot be neglected.
Remember this is one out of various solutions you may require to carry out your business, you must be proactive to protect not just your network, but content inclusive and Cisco is in that business.
This is absolutely a keystone to managing your security and it works very well with our identity services engine that manages your access as regards what you can access, from where, because the two may be different and depending on the device you are using.
Cisco is the first to come out with this solution which is our strategy to unify wired, wireless and virtual private networks (VPNs), into a single, highly secure network infrastructure based on one policy source and one management solution for the entire campus network.
It offers software-defined networking open interfaces, which offer greater investment protection through support of new features in the future.
The Unique Proportion
For instance in Nigeria, our customers are looking for a simple, highly secure network with reduced total cost of ownership that allows them to address the demands that new access requirements such BYOD and new innovative line of business applications bring.
Cisco Unified Access allows customers to achieve these goals by moving from individual vertical stacks of technology and disparate components and creating a single architecture for an intelligent network
General News
NIS Deploys Advanced Surveillance Masts, other Critical Infrastructure to Boost Border Security
Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has said that under the first phase of its e-border solution, surveillance masts equipped with 24-hour thermal and optical monitoring capabilities have been deployed across several border locations, providing surveillance coverage of 10 to 15 kilometres during the day and up to 5 kilometres at night.
The service also assured that it will continue to modernise border security management through the deployment of advanced technology and critical infrastructure.
DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, spokesman for the NIS, who made this known during a news briefing by Spokespersons for security, defence and law enforcement agencies in Abuja, said that the phase two of the e-border solution is expected to expand coverage to additional land border points.
Akinlabi said the Service has also established an Integrated Operating Centre (IOC) to serve as a central hub for real-time intelligence gathering, surveillance, and data harmonisation relating to foreign nationals.
He said the NIS recorded significant operational successes in strengthening border security, combating transnational crime, and enhancing migration management between January and May 2026.
“During the reporting period, the Service intensified enforcement operations against irregular migration and related transnational crimes, resulting in the repatriation of 567 foreign nationals for violations of Nigeria’s immigration laws and regulations.
“In addition, six foreign natio nals were deported, comprising four individuals arrested for their involvement in a visa racketeering syndicate and two others who were deported after completing prison sentences for criminal offences.
“The Service also strengthened efforts to curb identity fraud and abuse of national documentation. Enforcement operations led to the recovery of 47 National Identification Number (NIN) cards from irregular migrants, while 21 stowaways were apprehended at various seaports as they attempted to illegally enter or exit the country through unauthorised means.”
Akinlabi said aside enforcement activities, the Service continued to invest in preventive and community-based initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of irregular migration and cross-border crime.
“In March 2026, the Seme Border Command conducted sensitisation programmes for drivers’ associations, commercial motorcyclists, and community stakeholders to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration practices.
“Similarly, the Idi-Iroko Border Command carried out public awareness campaigns across markets, motor parks, and schools to educate border communities on the dangers and security implications of trans-border crimes.”
Mr. Emmanuel Ovaga, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PufferPay Limited will deliver the keynote paper at the 3rd Business Journal Fintech & Financial Inclusion Roundtable 2026 scheduled for Friday, July 31, 2026 at Oriental Hotel, Lekki Road, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The theme of the Roundtable is: Fintech: Driving the Future of Digital Financial Ecosystem in Nigeria. Mr. Emmanuel Ovaga is a graduate of Computer Engineering from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu State.
He is a technology entrepreneur and business leader with a strong track record in building and scaling innovative digital and enterprise solutions across Africa.
As the CEO of PufferPay, he drives the company’s vision to deliver seamless, secure and inclusive payment solutions tailored for emerging markets.
He is also the Chief Executive Officer of Pufferfish Technology Limited, a Pan-African IT and consulting firm specialising in software development, data analytics and systems integration for both public and private sector clients.
Under his leadership, the company has established strategic partnerships with globally recognised technology providers, including industry leaders in enterprise computing and analytics.
Pufferfish Technologies Limited has in a few years of its existence, birthed PufferPay, a fintech payment business created to enhance financial inclusion and payments facilitation in Africa.
PufferPay is created with best-in-class technology for transaction speed and security that guarantees top-range service delivery to its growing customers.
Reacting to the development, the Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of Business Journal Media Group, Prince Cookey said:
“Mr. Emmanuel Ovaga represents the next generation of tech leaders in the fintech space in Nigeria and Africa. His laudable accomplishments as the CEO of PufferPay Limited deserve accolades. He has positioned PufferPay as a leading player in the digital financial ecosystem in Nigeria and emerging corporate tentacles across the continent. Accordingly, stakeholders attending the 3rd Business Journal Fintech & Financial Inclusion Roundtable 2026 would be looking forward to a robust conversation on the State of the Fintech market today and tomorrow.”
The Special Guests of Honour include Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Mr. Olusegun Omosehin, Commissioner for Insurance/CEO, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) while Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) will Chair the event.
The Guest of Honour is Mrs. Ekeoma Ezeibe, President/Chairman of Council, NCRIB.
Distinguished members of the Panel include:
- Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE)
- Mrs. Idu Okeahialam, Group Managing Director/CEO, Royal Exchange Plc
- Mr. Jide Orimolade, Managing Director/CEO, Stanbic IBTC Insurance Limited
- Dr. Obioha Oti, President, Association of Mobile Money and Bank Agents in Nigeria (AMMBAN)
- Mr. Sarafadeen Fasasi, President, Association of Financial Inclusion Agents of Nigeria (AFIAN)
- Chidubem Emelumadu, Ecosystem Lead (Africa), Lisk
The revolutionary success story of Moniepoint, Opay, PalmPay, Flutterwave and others in the digital payment system in Nigeria represents a positive expansion of the financial services sector in the country.
With millions of Nigerians and businesses lacking access to basic financial services, the importance of Fintechs remain sacrosanct in achieving substantial level of Financial Inclusion and expanding the frontiers of the industry.
According to AI Overview, Fintechs in Nigeria have revolutionised the financial landscape by dramatically increasing access to banking services, driving, for example, a 20% increase in financial inclusion and helping to bring the banked population to roughly 63%. These firms have introduced faster, affordable digital payments, lending, and investment services, forcing traditional banks to adopt digital transformation.
On investment, AI Overview stated: “Fintechs in Nigeria dominate the tech landscape, securing 35% of total tech funding ($2 billion total) in 2024, with over 430 companies attracting roughly 36% of all African fintech investment. Despite global challenges, the sector remains highly resilient, driven by high demand, with significant deals including Moniepoint’s $110 million series C.”
In January 2026, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) granted national licences to Moniepoint, Opay etc, giving them the regulatory authority to operate across the 36 States of the Federation. The decision firmly underscores the great strides by Fintechs in driving Financial Inclusion and supporting sustainable economic growth in the country.
The 3rd Business Journal Fintech & Financial Inclusion Roundtable 2026 aims to underscore the positive contribution of Fintechs in deepening Financial Inclusion, expanding access to financial services and contributing to economic growth in the country.
Expected participants at the Roundtable include regulators, operators from key sectors of the economy, media and members of the public.
The Bank of Industry (BoI), Nigeria’s foremost Development Finance Institution (DFI), has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Belgian Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), setting the stage for deeper economic cooperation, expanded investment flows, and stronger industrial partnerships between Nigeria and Belgium.
The agreement was signed during a high-level breakfast meeting jointly hosted by BoI and the NBCC under the theme, “Scaling Operations, Expanding Capacity, and Accessing Competitive Finance.” The event convened senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders, development partners, MSMEs, and private sector stakeholders committed to advancing bilateral trade and industrial development.
Speaking on behalf of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, the Executive Director, Corporate Finance, Sustainability and Investments, Mr. Rotimi Akinde, described the partnership as a strategic milestone in BoI’s drive to expand global collaborations that accelerate Nigeria’s industrial transformation.
“As Nigeria’s leading Development Finance Institution, the Bank of Industry has consistently recognised that sustainable industrial development is built not only on access to finance but also on enduring strategic partnerships.
“This collaboration with the Nigerian Belgian Chamber of Commerce reflects our commitment to creating stronger international business corridors that unlock investment, facilitate technology transfer, support MSMEs, and strengthen Nigeria’s industrial competitiveness,” he said.
Akinde noted that Belgium remains one of Europe’s most dynamic trading and investment destinations, making the partnership an important platform for promoting co-investment opportunities, export development, enterprise growth, and knowledge exchange between businesses in both countries.
The two-year renewable MoU establishes a framework for joint business forums, investment roadshows, trade missions, business matchmaking, enterprise capacity development, and increased promotion of BoI’s financing solutions to Belgian investors and businesses operating in Nigeria.
The collaboration is also expected to improve access to foreign direct investment, expand export-oriented industrial projects, and create stronger commercial linkages between BoI-supported enterprises and the Belgian business community.
Delivering the welcome address, His Excellency Pieter Leenknegt, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Nigeria, commended the growing economic relationship between both countries and expressed optimism that the partnership would create new opportunities for businesses on both sides.
The General Manager of the Nigerian Belgian Chamber of Commerce, Marc Eeckhout, described the agreement as a practical platform for translating business interest into measurable economic outcomes.
“This Memorandum of Understanding represents more than an institutional partnership; it creates a structured bridge between Belgian innovation and Nigerian enterprise. By working closely with the Bank of Industry, we are opening new pathways for investment, technology exchange, and business collaboration that will enable companies from both countries to scale with confidence while contributing to sustainable industrial development,” he said.
The breakfast dialogue featured presentations on business expansion, industrial financing, and competitiveness, with contributions from industry leaders, including Engr. Vincent Adegbotolu, Managing Director/CEO of DWC Engineering, and Mudiaga Okumagba, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Direct Logistics Plus.
The partnership aligns with BoI’s 2025–2027 Corporate Strategy, which prioritises industrialisation, MSME development, youth and skills, women’s economic empowerment, climate finance, digital transformation, infrastructure, and export promotion. With assets valued at over ₦6.8 trillion, the Bank continues to strengthen strategic international partnerships that support the Federal Government’s industrialisation agenda while creating jobs, enhancing productivity, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Through the collaboration, BoI expects to attract new investment opportunities from the Belgian business ecosystem, increase financing for high-impact industrial projects, strengthen export value chains, and improve the investment readiness of Nigerian enterprises through joint advisory and capacity-building initiatives.
The Bank reaffirmed its commitment to working with global partners to unlock long-term capital, accelerate industrial growth, and position Nigeria as a competitive investment destination within Africa and beyond.
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