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Experts Urge Firms to Change Strategy on the Use of Data for Growth

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Experts in the field of data science have urged business leaders and policy makers in Africa to shift from making intuition-based decisions to data-driven decisions that align with their organisation strategies for the growth and development of their businesses.

They made this call at the just concluded Maiden edition of Big Data and Business Analytics Conference 2019 with the Theme: ‘Unleashing The Power of Data Analytics to Drive Business Result’, held in Lagos.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Theophilus Babatunde Mederios, (TBM) Founder of Information and Data Analytics Foundation (iDAF) and Lead Convener of the conference urged business leaders and policy makers in Africa to shift from making intuition-based decisions to data-driven decisions that align with their organisation strategies for the growth and development of their businesses.

He called on them to start making decisions and investments that will dramatically affect their ability to adopt machine intelligence in the future.

According to him, “Unfortunately, for companies that do not have technology as a core-competency, even getting started can be a daunting task One of the biggest obstacles that is the HiPPO – the highest paid person’s opinion – which allows gut instinct to override available data when determining company direction and policy.

“Unfamiliarity with AI may lead the HiPPO to reject any suggestions for adoption. While this strategy may produce a feeling of security in the short term, it also increases the probability of failure in the long term”.

Giving an insight into the benefits of AI, Mederios noted that Artificial Intelligence could be used to solve social injustice.

Founder of iDAF and Lead Convener of the conference, Theophilus Babatunde Mederios (TBM)

He further stated that DAB Conference was convened out of the need to bring together the leading big data and business analytics across sectors in Sub-Saharan Africa.

“The primary objective of bringing them together is to discuss ways businesses and policy and decision makers can take advantages of their data as intellectual property to make informed strategic business decisions.

“Now is the time for business leaders and policy makers in Africa to shift from making intuition-based decisions to making data-driven decisions that align with organization.”

Dr. Yemi Kale, Statistician General of the Federation, delivering a paper titled ‘How technology and Big Data Has the Potential to Drive and Revolutionise Our Economy’ said that Capital accumulation, labour productivity and technological innovation are the three main sources of growth in an economy like Nigeria,

Dr Kale, who was represented by Lola Talabi-Oni noted that technological innovation in the long-run will wins the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

According to him, “Technological innovation has been driven largely by Data. Technology has been driven by rapid innovation, and in the current fourth industrial revolution, technology has been largely driven by rapidly increasing volumes of data produced and consumed at a significant pace.

“Why has data grown so important? Data plays key role in shaping almost every aspect of human life by providing us with clear, objective, numerical evidence about the population, economic performance, health and wellbeing, environment and aids the decision-making process to establish numerical benchmarks, monitor and evaluate the progress of policies or programmes and ensuring that our policy interventions are well designed”.

According to the Statistician General of the Federation, previously, the country’s statistical system was less than optimal; weak, uncoordinated and largely ineffective and policy makers and other data users ignored official data.

He however noted that there are significant changes due to improved coordination at Federal and State levels; increasing recognition of the importance of statistics and resurgence in the demand for data.

He said that at the sub-national level, State governments have also been raising their interest in data-driven policy by establishing statistical agencies and passing relevant statistical laws.

Cross section of participants at the event

Dr Kale revealed that about 23 states currently have functional Statistical Bureau while calling on other states to embrace the system.

Shingai Manjengwa, CEO, Fireside Analytics, speaking on Data Science Skills & the Future of work, said that automation forms one of the most critical part of the future of work because it has the potential to replace 51% of jobs across multiple sectors that Africa is dependent on.

According to her, “Africa’s future of work story will be different from developed markets. With much of the workforce of tomorrow, we can program the requisite skills today by embracing Data Science.

“The big data market is worth an estimated USD$42 billion and Africans are well positioned to contribute significantly to this economy due to three factors, namely, favorable demographics; high and increasing internet penetration and changing education trends”.

Giving an insight on ‘Using AI and Blockchain To Monetize The Mobile Economy’ Prof. Anindya Ghose, said that Mobile (Data Source), AI (Datamining Tools) and Blockchain (Data Quality) are linked together to cause major economic changes across the world.

He noted that even in advertising industry, these technological indices are being leveraged to understand shifting consumer mindset about data exchange.

“This is what I call ‘Using AI to mine 9 Forces’ which include context, location, time, saliency, crowdedness, weather, trajectory, social, and omni-channel.

“These are what will influence the ways ads are deployed and how technology is being used in that ecosystem”.

“Countries like China and United States are leading the world in IP and other data related skills.

“Thus, Nigeria as a country should not relax, rather move up to lead the region, because there are enormous opportunities,” he stated.


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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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Telecom Management Company Appeals for Cooperation and Safety Measures Over Abaranje Base Station Fire Incident

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Carville Integrated Ventures Limited, a telecoms facility management services provider, has expressed deep sadness by the recent fire incident at Abaranje Base Station, one of the several base stations it manages on behalf of Airtel Nigeria.

The incident, which occurred during maintenance operations on a leaking part of a diesel tank, resulted in injuries to some individuals from the local community who forcefully gained unauthorized access into the facility hosting the base station during the maintenance work.

Despite this breach of access control by the impacted individuals, Carville, who has responsibility for the site management expresses its sympathy to the victims and has offered to provide healthcare support to them.

The management of Carville Integrated Ventures, extends her condolences to the affected individuals and their families, stating, “Our hearts go out to those injured in the unfortunate incident. We are committed to providing support and assistance during their recovery process.”

Carville also emphasizes the company’s dedication to corporate social responsibility, stating, “We stand by our commitment to the communities we serve, and we will continue to prioritize their welfare in all our operations.”

Furthermore, Carville appeals to community leaders and members to cooperate with the company in implementing safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. “Safety is our top priority, the management affirmed. “We urge everyone to adhere to safety protocols and guidelines to ensure the well-being of all.”

Carville is working closely with local authorities and regulatory bodies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and implement necessary measures to prevent recurrence.


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Google, Kaduna State Others Partner to Launch First Hausa-Language AI learning Series to Expand Tech Education and Empower Women

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A new initiative aimed at empowering women in Northern Nigeria through AI education was launched today. Google, in collaboration with the Kaduna State Government, and Data Science Nigeria, introduced the AI for Beginners Learning Video Series. This series presents Artificial Intelligence concepts in Hausa, making complex technology more accessible and culturally relevant for the region.

In Northern Nigeria, various challenges can impact access to tech education and career opportunities. These include diverse socio-cultural dynamics, infrastructural limitations, and language barriers. The AI for Beginners Learning Video Series, through its engaging animations and culturally relevant imagery, is designed to make complex digital concepts more accessible and relatable, fostering inclusivity and participation in the growing tech sector.

The launch event, held at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Hall in Kaduna, was a celebration of technology, education, and the immense potential of Northern Nigeria’s women. His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor, delivering a keynote address that underscored the government’s commitment to digital transformation and economic growth.

“AI is not just the future; it’s the present,” Governor Uba Sani declared. “By equipping our people, especially our women, with AI skills, we’re not only paving the way for a more prosperous and innovative Northern Nigeria, but also laying the foundation for Kaduna to become a thriving tech hub.”

“We believe that technology can be a powerful force for change and are committed to making learning resources available in local languages to empower more people,” said the Director of Google West Africa during the launch event held at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Hall, Murtala Muhammad Square, Kaduna. He added, “This series marks a new milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance AI knowledge across Northern Nigeria, fostering a broader understanding and application of AI technologies that drive innovation and create new job opportunities.”

“By making AI education accessible in Hausa, we’re opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and social impact,” added Dr. Bayo Adekanbi, CEO/Founder of Data Science Nigeria. “These women are the future leaders and innovators of Northern Nigeria, and AI is the tool that can amplify their potential.”

The event also featured speeches from representatives of NITDA and the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, who underscored the national significance of the initiative and the government’s support for fostering a vibrant tech ecosystem.

The AI for Beginners Learning Video Series is now available on YouTube via the Data Science Nigeria platform, on the NITDA education portal, and for download. To further aid in accessibility, the series has also been deployed on USB drives for distribution and direct peer-to-peer copy at all primary and secondary schools, including public video content copying centres across Kaduna State.


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Konga Launches Tech Month with Incredible Discounts

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Konga, Leading e-commerce giant has announced its highly anticipated Konga Tech Month starting from Wednesday, May 1, until Friday, May 31, 2024. This good news is not only for tech enthusiasts and bargain hunters but also for home appliance lovers, as this year’s edition goes beyond gadgets to feature home, office and lifestyle essentials.

Konga Tech Month has become a major event in the Nigerian shopping calendar. This annual sales extravaganza is widely regarded as one of the biggest gadget sales in the country. It offers a treasure trove of tech devices at unbeatable prices, attracting a massive audience eager to snag incredible deals on a wide range of products.

This year’s Konga Tech Month boasts an impressive selection of devices across various categories. Whether you need a reliable laptop, phone or a professional upgrade to your office and household with authentic appliances, Konga Tech Month has something to suit every need.

Throughout May, Konga’s customers will stand the chance to take advantage of special discounts on original printers, dependable power solutions and generators from companies like iTEC and iPower Inverters, mobile phones, refrigerators, inverters, and much more at up to half the price. Many freebies and deals will also be on offer for the fastest fingers in the Konga Flash Sale.

“Konga Tech Month is a testament to our commitment to providing Nigerians with access to high-quality yet affordable tech products,” said Mr Nnamdi Ekeh, CEO of Konga. “This year’s event promises to be even bigger and better than last year, so we are thrilled to get started. Thanks to Konga Tech Month, we can accomplish our mission of making cutting-edge technology available to everyone no matter their budget.”

The competitive pricing and special deals offered during Konga Tech Month are available for students, institutions, and organizations. Whether it’s outfitting a computer lab, updating office technology, or providing students with affordable laptops, Konga Tech Month offers a cost-effective solution.

A satisfied shopper from the last edition shared her excitement saying, “The Konga Tech event last year was incredible! I was able to get the high-performance laptop I’d been eyeing for months and at a price I couldn’t believe. The discounts were amazing, and the selection was huge. Plus, being able to choose between online shopping or visiting a Konga store was convenient and made shopping easier. I’m looking forward to Tech Week this year. I’ve been eyeing a new microwave and phone, and I know Konga will have the finest deals in town.”

Konga Tech Month offers a smooth shopping experience for everyone. Customers can browse the extensive selection of discounted tech products online at the Konga website (https://www.konga.com/) or visit any Konga retail outlets nationwide to experience the deals firsthand.

 


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