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Engr. Daudu Charges NITDA on Capacity Building

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Engr. Festus Y.A Daudu, permanent secretary, Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, has charged the management of National Information Technology Development Agency, (NITDA) to ensure that it keeps building the capacity of Nigerians in information and Communication Technology Sector.

The Permanent Secretary made this charge on Thursday at the Ministry’s headquarter when the NITDA’s Director General, Mallam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, led some members of his management to brief the Permanent Secretary about the activities of the Agency.

He said, “you need to make sure that the necessary capacity is developed within the ecosystem because you have a lot to do and if you do not develop your capacity; in this particular sector that is dynamic, you will lose touch with current realities”.

Engr. Daudu observed that with the abundant human resources the nation is blessed with, the country has all it takes to drive most of her processes with information technology.

He said “Nigerians excel anywhere they go; I see no reason why with the abundant human resources we have, we cannot use it effectively to develop this nation.

The Permanent Secretary commended NITDA for what he termed laudable achievements and enjoined the management of the Agency to ensure that it works harmoniously with other parastatals and IT stakeholders because the objective of achieving a digital Nigerians is the same.

“We have to work together; we have one objective, to make the lives of Nigerian better. We are a communication and Digital Economy family”.

While applauding the Agency for being up and doing, Engr. Daudu assured NITDA of his supports that would make the Agency carry out its mandate effectively especially in the area of clearing IT projects of other ministries, Department and Agencies.

Earlier in his presentation, the NITDA boss informed the Permanent Secretary of various NITDA’s initiatives and how they have been impacting positively on the Digital Economy Policy of the government.

The DG stated that the Agency’s efforts at localizing the government data has resulted into the repatriation of 98% of government that hitherto hosted off shore of the country back to Nigeria.

On Indigenous Content Promotion, Abdullahi said”the Agency has issued a total number 297 Compliance notice. This is to enforce the local content policy especially on ICT. “We have a surveillance team that looks at all ICT content”

Mallam Abdullahi further stated that the sales of hardware under the indigenous content development has witnessed unprecedented record of over 1.2million devices sold between 2015 to 2019. Adding that the investments in indigenous software development mandated by NITDA by Federal government institutions stand at over N1.3 billion.

The DG disclosed that most of the Agency’s interactions are targeted at developing the economy of the country, adding that the country recently focused on building the capacity of Nigerians to acquire skill necessary to drive a digital economy.

“In 2020, we went around all the six geopolitical zones to train people. We do a lot of in-person and virtual training.

“We have trained over 35,000 on different courses on ICT virtually and developed the capacity of 1500 Nigerians at our e-Government Training Centre,” he said.

While commenting on Nigeria Data Protection Regulations, the DG said, NITDA has created N2.2billion industry, and 2686 jobs were created through the implementation of the regulation, remitted N12.6million to the federal government purse from the filling of NDPR audit report among others.

Mallam Abdullahi added that NITDA roadmaps of 2016-2020 are aligned with the National Economy Policy and Strategy and the yet to be launched 20121-2024 would consulate the pillars of NDEPS.

He said the National IT Policy the Agency was created to implement has become obsolete and the new policy of Digital Economy has compelled the Agency to rebrand and reposition itself for better performance.

“All these things are not the end but means to the end because the end is how the Agency is impacting in people lives for digital Economy development”.

 


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Ugo Onwuaso is an ICT enthusiast. He believes technology should be used for general good. He holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from the Lagos state University. Dear Reader, Your support matters. But we believe that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. That is why, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and finance and how they affect lives. Our incisive and analytical view of how technology news affects the daily life help individuals and organizations make up their minds. Quality journalism costs money. Today, we're asking that you support us to do more. Kindly support our effort to deliver technology and finance journalism to everyone in the world. Donate as little as N1,000. Bank transfers can be made to: UBA Plc 1017156876 Communication Week Media Ltd

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ATICEN Commends NLC for Suspending Strike over Telecoms Tariff Hike

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Joe Ajaero, president, NLC,
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Comrade Adede John Williams, president of the Association of Telecommunications, Information Technology, Cable Satellite Network Operators and Allied Services Employers’of Nigeria (ATICEN), has commended the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for suspending the planned strike over tariff hike by Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for the Nigeria telecommunications operators.

ATICEN Commends NLC for Suspending Strike over Telecoms Tariff Hike

Joe Ajaero, president, NLC,

He called on members and the general assembly of the Nigeria Labour Congress, telecoms subscribers, stakeholders, and all interested parties to see the need to accept the reality of things as they unfold.

He emphasised that rising inflation, energy costs, operational costs, and currency devaluation challenges faced in the country were the key reasons for the recent tariff hike, adding that the costs of importing telecommunications equipment, the maintenance support system, and unreliable electricity supply had affected the profits supposedly accrued to telecoms operators.

He, therefore, urged the telecommunications subscribers and Nigerians to always have the interests of the services of telecommunications operators at heart for the industry’s sustainability, as the industry regulator is always championing the consumer’s protection rights.

“So, it is important to know that the recent increase in telecoms tariff was approved according to its regulatory power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA) to regulate and approve tariff rates and charges for telecommunications operators operating in Nigeria,” he said.

Williams equally acknowledged Dr. Bosun Tijani, minister, Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and Dr. Aminu Maina, EVC/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), for taking a proactive step in managing the NLC’s planned strike.

 


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Airtel Nigeria’s Communications Director Champions Workforce Transformation at PAU Career Fair

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L-r: Senior Lecturer, Institute of Humanities, PAU, Dr. Ruth Karachi Benson Oji (Panel session moderator) and Panelists; Head, Corporate Services, Fast Credit Ltd, Olabisi Omoregie; Director of Corporate Communications and CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Femi Adeniran; and General Manager, HR & Admin, Mutual Benefits Assurance, Abike Wesey at the panel session of the Pan-Atlantic University Career Fair held on Wednesday at the University Main Campus in Lagos state.
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Femi Adeniran, the Director of Corporate Communications and CSR Airtel Nigeria, has called for a human centric approach to workforce transformation in the face of rapid technological advancements.

Mr. Adeniran made this statement during a panel discussion titled ‘Building a Workforce for the New Era: Talent, Technology, and Transformation’ at the 2025 Career Fair, hosted by Pan-Atlantic University on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at the University main campus.

He stressed the importance of organizations prioritizing clear corporate communication, continuous learning, and reverse mentoring to foster a resilient, future ready workforce, highlighting how crucial corporate communication is in enhancing workforce agility and driving innovation.

“Organizations that master transparent and engaging communication are better positioned to integrate digital tools seamlessly while maintaining a strong human connection. It’s not just about technology; it’s about empowering people through effective engagement, and purpose-driven messaging.” He said.

Mr. Adeniran also urged organizations to invest in upskilling and reskilling their workforce, advocating for a proactive approach to talent development that ensures employees remain relevant amid industry shifts.

He highlighted Airtel Nigeria’s commitment to nurturing talent through initiatives such as the “Open Talent Economy” an ambitious initiative aimed at preparing undergraduates for the evolving demands of the modern workforce.

The panel discussion brought together leading industry experts, including Olabisi Omoregie (Head, Corporate Services, Fast Credit Ltd) and Abike Wesey (General Manager, HR & Admin, Mutual Benefits Assurance).

Moderated by Dr. Ruth Karachi Benson Oji, the discussion delved into the impact of artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation on employment. Panelists emphasized that while technology is reshaping job functions, human adaptability, emotional intelligence, and strategic foresight are still crucial.

The career fair reaffirms Pan-Atlantic University’s commitment to fostering meaningful engagements that bridge the gap between academia and industry. The institution remains dedicated to empowering students and professionals with the insights needed to excel in the evolving job market.

 


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MTN mPulse Inspires Excellence at Glorious Covenant School in Rivers State

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MTN Nigeria’s mPulse team recently visited Glorious Covenant School in Rivers State to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Ikenna Ikechukwu, the 2024 MTN mPulse Spelling Bee champion.

The event, held on January 22, 2025, was not just a recognition of Ikenna’s hard work but a call to students everywhere to aim higher and reach for greatness.

The event highlighted the transformative power of education and innovation. At the 2024 Spelling Bee Grand Finale in November in Lagos, Ikenna emerged the Spelling Bee champion title, and was awarded ₦5 million scholarship, a laptop, a smartphone, and an mPulse goody bag.

His win also extended to his school, which received 10 laptops and 10 MTN 5G routers, underscoring MTN’s commitment to enhancing digital education and closing the digital divide.

“This competition isn’t just about spelling words; it’s about unlocking the potential of young Nigerians and inspiring them to achieve greatness,” said Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria. “We hope to see more students step into the spotlight like Ikenna.”

For the students and teachers at Glorious Covenant School, the visit was more than a celebration—it was a challenge to dream big.

Many of the students shared aspirations of participating in future editions of the Spelling Bee, encouraged by Ikenna’s inspiring story. “Winning this competition has changed my life,” said Ikenna. “I hope my journey motivates other students to work hard and believe in their potential.”

By visiting Glorious Covenant School, MTN not only celebrated Ikenna’s success but also reinforced its commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators. Through initiatives like the mPulse Spelling Bee, MTN continues to inspire Nigerian youth to pursue excellence and achieve their dreams.


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