Telecom
NASENI and BPP Forge Nigeria First Alliance to Champion Local Goods and Services
National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) on Monday, 28th July 2025, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the implementation of “Nigeria First” Policy on Procurement, projects and other related matters.
The Nigeria First Policy is an initiative of the Federal Government, aimed at promoting Nigerian-made goods, services and utilization of Local content, infrastructures and other value chain.
As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda initiative of the Government, the policy seeks to encourage local production and consumption of Nigerian goods or services, also to support Nigerian business and entrepreneurs, foster economic growth and development, reduce dependency on imported goods and to promote Nigerian culture and identity. Also, by prioritizing local content, the policy aimed to create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and increase Nigeria’s global competitiveness.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony which took place at the Headquarters of Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) office in Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, said, with the signing of MoU and implementation of the Nigeria First Policy, 80% of challenges faced while trying to convince investors and foreign partners would have been solved, as Nigeria will cease to be dumping ground for foreign goods, while focusing on promotion of Nigerian products, goods and services.
Halilu said that with support now coming from BPP, the over 50 market ready NASENI products will be off the shelves and gain patronage of Nigerians, adding that NASENI has gained for the country over 2 billion dollars from its recent partnership activities with China alone.
“One thing that is clear when I took over the leadership of NASENI was the determination to move the Agency from just producing prototypes to commercialization of its technologies and products, this was complemented by the turn around which we did in rebranding the Agency.
“We have 50 market-ready Nigeria branded products. NASENI is building the biggest renewable energy park in Nasarawa and has entered into partnership with Abuja Technology Village to boost Technology Transfer and innovation, enhance local manufacturing capacity, transform NASENI’s research-focused installation into full production facilities, promote national brands and local production”, he further explained.
Buttressing the partnership between NASENI and BPP, he said that it is expected that the policy would have transformative impacts on Nigeria’s economy and human capital development, aligning with national goals for industrialization, youth employment, and economic diversification. “This also shows that our efforts are not in vain:”
Earlier in his speech, the Director-General of Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) Dr. Adebowale Adedokun said that the MoU between BPP and NASENI offers a structured bridge between production and procurement and how to take locally made solutions off the shelves and to place them at the center of public service delivery, which aimed at aligning Government policies with national priorities as well as giving practical force to the Nigeria First Policy.
According to him, “NASENI’s innovations, from tractors to tablets, from surveillance drones to solar backup systems, will now be actively prioritized in the procurement plans by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. We are institutionalizing a framework that makes local options not just preferable, but the default option before all others.
Specifically, he said further that with the signing of the MoU, the “BPP will now integrate NASENI’s Product catalogue into the Nigeria Open Contracting Portal, NOCOPO, and therefore encouraging other MDAs to follow suit”
He noted that the “Nigeria First Policy is not an act of protectionism, but an act of patriotism grounded in performance, and it is targeted at fastracking Nigeria’s industrial revolution”. He remarked that “NASENI has invested in quality assurance. Its products are certified by national institutions such as SON and NAFDAC. This means NASENI’s offerings will now be visible, verifiable, and measurable across all MDAs. First, we are integrating NASENI’s catalogue into the Nigeria Open Contracting Portal, NOCOPO. Between January and June this year alone, NOCOPO’s enhanced price intelligence has helped Nigeria save over 173 billion naira, 155 million dollars, and 1.7 million euros.”
While calling on all MDAs to follow NASEN’s footprint in promoting Made in Nigeria products, he said that the BPP’s revised threshold is now five billion naira for goods and ten billion for works, meaning that MDAs can act faster, while they continue to strengthen post-review and audit mechanisms.
He emphasized that the role of BPP is to ensure that these standards are rewarded with access, and that MDAs no longer look outside when the best is being made inside. “For the avoidance of doubt, let me say here that we will be backing this commitment with reform actions”.
Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) has launched a new stand-alone messaging app on iOS devices, called XChat.
Elon Musk
This app will help users connect their existing X contacts for calling, chatting, and sharing files. This move shows how Musk’s previous idea of creating a single ‘everything app’ seems to shift to a different strategy now.
This newly launched app comes with features such as audio and video calling, text messaging, group chats, and file sharing.
Moreover, it features privacy-focused tools like disappearing messages, the option to delete and edit messages for everyone, and a feature that blocks screenshots.
Looking at these features, the XChat seems to take on WhatsApp and Messenger.
However, the tech firm said that the app has no tracking or ads.
In terms of privacy, X claimed that the instant messaging app is end-to-end encrypted and comes with a PIN.
This app is currently available to iOS users only, and more updates are expected in the near future, as teased by Benji Taylor, the X’s lead designer. The launch of this app reflects a shift in Musk’s strategy about turning X into an ‘everything’ app that will include payments, shopping, messaging, and more combined in one place.
However, the focus of xAI seems to be different now as the company seems to be developing several different apps instead of combining everything into one.
This approach may help X to reach users through their various services rather than a single platform.
While XChat focused on messaging currently, the tech firm is also reportedly testing a separate payments system, which is not available to the public so far.
More features and updates to the instant messaging app are likely to be arriving in the coming months as X continues to grow its ecosystem with more apps.
Technology Company, Globacom has unveiled two vibrant television commercials, “Road Trip” and “Department of Imagination,” reinforcing the telecommunications giant’s dedication to providing seamless, reliable connectivity for every lifestyle.
These engaging campaigns illustrate how Glo remains an essential partner in both our daily routines and our boldest future aspirations.
“Road Trip” captures a relatable family adventure filled with laughter and authentic moments. The story follows Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi as she experiences the frustration of poor signal—only to find that switching to Glo transforms the experience instantly. Whether it’s navigation, downloading content, or staying entertained, the difference is clear with Glo, which ensures you stay connected no matter where the road takes you.
Starring alongside Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi, the commercial featured Bolaji Ogunmola and others and their combination brought the best out of the TVC.
Users can easily access data plans by dialling *312#, ensuring smooth, uninterrupted service on the go.
Department, on the other hand transports viewers to a futuristic landscape where technology bridges the gap between creativity and reality.
Guided by the renowned Richard Mofe-Damijo (The Professor), the story explores how powerful ideas turn into extraordinary experiences. It showcases a smarter, more dynamic world—from real-time gaming to advanced culinary processes demonstrated by Hilda Baci and creative tech integration by Bamike Adenibuyan (Bam-Bam).
The unique feature of the story is each scene serving as a testament to how Glo is actively shaping a future where technological possibilities are infinite.
The Glo’s latest commercials carry a unified, powerful message: The future is here, and it is powered by Glo.
Young innovators and entrepreneurs from across Nigeria converged at the “Gathering on 100,” a 100-hour non-stop youth-focused experience powered by MTN, to showcase ideas, build networks, and compete for funding in a major startup pitch competition.
Pitchathon
The event, described by organisers as a convergence of creators, founders, and culture shapers, featured a Pitchathon segment that awarded a total of ₦45 million to eight outstanding startups selected from 30 participants spanning sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, FinTech, HealthTech, EdTech, Internet of Things (IoT), AgriTech, DefenceTech, and CreativeTech.
The competition underscored what participants called a “Gen Z approach to business,” combining innovation, speed, and community-driven growth models.
At the end of the contest, Hurpham Africa, led by Sesan Kareem, emerged overall winner, securing ₦15 million alongside enterprise partnership and co-development access from MTN.
Coconoto Ltd, founded by Jacob Oluwayannife, clinched the second runner-up position with a prize of ₦10 million, while Rava Send, represented by Emmanuel Isaka, emerged third runner-up, receiving ₦5 million.
Five other startups — URI Social, Dulces Jams, Kindly Book, Africa Medical Marketplace, and MyFund — each received ₦3 million in recognition of their innovative solutions and growth potential.
Organisers said the initiative was designed not only to reward innovation but also to equip young founders with critical business skills through mentorship and real-time engagement with industry leaders.
The Pitchathon formed part of a broader industry showcase where emerging technology startups presented solutions aimed at deepening financial inclusion and accelerating e-commerce growth across Africa.
Among the presenters was a fintech platform led by Charles Dairo, which is focused on simplifying cross-border transactions. According to Dairo, the platform has recorded more than 10,000 user registrations, with about 30 per cent actively transacting.
He said the company is deploying a localized incentive system to drive user engagement and convert inactive users, noting that a referral programme already contributes roughly 15 per cent of organic growth.
The platform operates a 0.5 per cent transaction fee model and leverages strategic banking partnerships to ensure liquidity. It also integrates stablecoins such as USD Coin to enhance cross-border payment efficiency and expand interoperability across mobile money ecosystems.
Stakeholders noted that such innovations could help address long-standing challenges in Africa’s payments landscape, including high transaction costs and limited system integration.
In the e-commerce space, startups like Jakuta demonstrated the use of artificial intelligence to simplify purchasing decisions and improve operational efficiency.
The platform combines voice technology with mobile messaging tools such as WhatsApp to guide users through transactions, while also enabling device trade-ins through automated video analysis.
Developers said the system currently supports operations in about 20 countries and is capable of handling high volumes of daily interactions, including automated customer engagement processes.
They added that the solution automates routine merchant tasks such as inventory management and customer follow-ups, even in low-connectivity environments, thereby expanding access for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Founders also disclosed ongoing efforts to partner with telecommunications providers to reduce communication costs and scale adoption of their platforms.
Industry analysts at the event observed that many startups are increasingly prioritising customer lifetime value, reinvesting revenues into marketing, user acquisition, and product optimisation to build resilient and scalable business models.
They noted that such strategies are essential for navigating challenges including exchange rate volatility, infrastructure gaps, and regulatory complexities across African markets.
The “Gathering on 100” highlighted the growing influence of youth-led innovation in shaping Nigeria’s digital economy, with stakeholders expressing optimism that sustained collaboration between startups, financial institutions, and telecom operators would accelerate digital inclusion and unlock new economic opportunities.
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