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Google to Commit $2M Grant in Funding for Its African Impact Challenge

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Google is to commit $2m worth of grant funding to nonprofit Organisations in Nigeria through its First African Impact challenge, which will see funding awarded to non-profit organizations that are innovating using technology to reach their goals.

 

Speaking on the announcement, Affiong Osuchukwu , Google Country Marketing Manager said, “This is the first time we are running a Google Impact Challenge in Africa.

 

“Many African nonprofits are doing great work with real impact and we’re keen to shine a light on them, and give a financial boost to innovative projects and ideas.

 

“We believe technology can help local and national organisations to better reach their goals and solve some of the continent’s most pressing challenges, and we are eager to back people who are using technology in new ways to make a positive difference in their communities.

 

“We also want to highlight the healthy state of social enterprise in Nigeria today, and encourage non-profits to consider how technology can help them reach their goals,” Osuchukwu said.

 

She also issued an open call to non-profit organisations in Nigeria to apply to receive their share of $2m in funding, adding that four non-profits in Nigeria stand to win $250 000 each while 8 runners up will each get $125 000.

 

Osuchukwu explained that, “Winners will be decided by a panel of local judges and a public vote.

 

“public vote provides a chance for the people to decide which organisation gets an extra portion of funding to help them impact their community.

 

“The winning non-profits will get cash as well as access to guidance, technical assistance and mentorship from Google, which they are free to take up should they so choose.”

 

According to Google, the Impact Challenge Nigeria starts today and will close on the 4th of July and the final awards ceremony will be held during the week of 26 November.

 

She noted that, this commitment was part of the $20m announced by its CEO Sundar Pichai during his visit to Nigeria in July last year, to provide funding to African non-profit organizations over five years, adding that this is the first initiative aimed at realizing that commitment.

 

The Nigerian judging panel for the challenge includes chairman CEO Channels media group John Momoh, chairman CEO, Zinox Technologies Leo Stan Ekeh, chief executive officer, Tony Elumelu Foundation,Parminder Vir, Rapper and CEO of Chocolate City Music Group MI Abaga, Philanthropist and Executive Director of Nigeria Network of NGOs Oluseyi Oyebisi, Philanthropist and Media enterpreneur Mo Abudu, Ex-footballer and founder of the Kanu Heart Foundation Kanu Nwankwo, Managing General Partner, EchoVC Partners Eghosa Omoigui and Google Country Director Juliet Ehimuan-Chiazor.

 

Other Google Impact Challenges around the world have supported ideas ranging from smart cameras for wildlife conservation to solar lights for off-grid communities to a mobile application that helps to protect women from domestic violence.

 

Applications are open for the next six months, and nonprofits can apply online here at www.https://impactchallenge.withgoogle.com/nigeria2018 or g.co/nigeriachallenge.


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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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MoMo PSB Brings Relief to UNILAG Students with Ultra-Cheap Bus Fares

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MoMo Payment Service Bank (MoMo PSB), a fintech subsidiary of MTN Nigeria, has announced a partnership with Ogata Electric Vehicles to provide subsidised bus rides of ₦10 per fare to students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

MoMo PSB Brings Relief to UNILAG Students with Ultra-Cheap Bus Fares

MoMo PSB

The initiative, unveiled on Thursday in Lagos, is aimed at easing transportation costs for young Nigerians, particularly students, as part of MoMo PSB’s broader commitment to financial inclusion and digital accessibility.

MoMo PSB, which provides millions of Nigerians with secure financial services including transfers, savings, card services, bill payments and wallet solutions, said the transport subsidy reflects its mission to improve everyday life by reducing the cost of essential services.

The company explained that the partnership with Ogata Electric Vehicles would not only make commuting more affordable for students but also promote sustainable mobility through the use of electric buses.

Officials of MoMo PSB noted that the initiative is designed to bring “good cheer” to the UNILAG community, ensuring students can access safe, reliable and cost-effective transport while focusing on their education.


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MTN Nigeria Launches Unlimited 5G Broadband Plans to Boost Digital Inclusion

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MTN Nigeria has launched its Unlimited Broadband Data plans powered by 5G technology, a move the telecoms giant says will tackle long-standing challenges of capped data limits, high costs and unstable connectivity faced by internet users across the country.

MTN Nigeria Launches Unlimited 5G Broadband Plans to Boost Digital Inclusion

MTN Nigeria

Egerton Idehen, Chief Broadband Officer of MTN Nigeria, said the new product was designed to support high-demand users including streamers, gamers, households and businesses requiring uninterrupted connectivity.

“We’re building a broadband experience for everyday life. For content creators, remote workers, gamers, students and households. Our focus is on speed, reliability, low latency, and affordability.

“Broadband is designed to deliver seamless connectivity that empowers Nigerians to thrive in the digital economy,” Idehen said.

The plans, available in speed-based variants of 50Mbps and 100Mbps, promise lightning-fast speeds and ultra-low latency to address issues of lag and buffering. MTN said the packages would also provide affordable and flexible options to cater to diverse economic segments.

New customers who purchase a 5G router will enjoy a welcome bonus of unlimited data for the first 30 days, allowing them to experience the service before committing to long-term use.

The company explained that the initiative was part of its broader commitment to digital inclusion, enabling Nigerians to access stable connections for virtual meetings, large file transfers, online learning, high-definition streaming and professional gaming.

Customers can subscribe to the Unlimited Broadband Plans by dialling 4611#, using the MyMTN app, MTN eShop, MTN website, or visiting authorised retail outlets nationwide.


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Airtel Africa Foundation Opens Undergraduate Scholarship Portal in Nigeria

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The Airtel Africa Foundation has opened applications for its Undergraduate Tech Scholarship in Nigeria, inviting first-year university students with strong academic potential to apply for financial support aimed at accelerating their studies in technology and related fields.

The scheme provides full tuition, accommodation support, and essential study materials for eligible 100-level students. It forms part of the Foundation’s F.E.E.D. agenda, which promotes Financial Empowerment, Education, Environmental Protection, and Digital Inclusion, with a focus on creating pathways for talented young people who face financial barriers.

Airtel Nigeria CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, encouraged students to take advantage of the opportunity. He noted that, “Education is one of the most powerful tools for national development,” adding that “as an organisation, Airtel is determined to build a platform for aspiring young Nigerians to learn, innovate and lead in the country’s expanding technology landscape.”

Applications are open to students pursuing courses such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, and other ICT-related disciplines at participating universities: University of Lagos, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Benin, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ilorin, and Tai Solarin University of Education.

Dr Segun Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, said the scholarship demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to nurturing Africa’s next generation of digital leaders. “Young Africans are brimming with talent and ambition. What many need is a fair chance to pursue their education without financial pressure. This scholarship reflects our belief that investing in their growth will strengthen communities, empower families, and expand the continent’s digital future,” he said.

Applicants must be enrolled in 100-level, have scored at least 230 in JAMB, and hold a minimum of five credits in WAEC, including English and Mathematics, in a single sitting. Required documents include Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) results, university admission letter, West African Examination Council (WAEC) certificate, student identity card, and academic transcript or university results.

The Foundation encourages qualified students across the listed institutions to apply and position themselves for a stronger start in the technology sector. Applications can be submitted at candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/airtelfellowship2025.

 


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