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NCC Pledges Support in Production of Books in Accessible Format for the Blind
The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has assured publishers that in collaboration with the Nigerian Association of the Blind (NAB), it would provide the requisite technical support to facilitate the production of books in accessible formats until publishers align with the new model.
Dr. John O. Asein, Director-General, NCC, stated this during a Virtual Special Google Awareness Meeting on Accessible Publishing, a collaborative programme between the NCC, Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA), World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and NAB.
Dr. Asein, in his statement, reaffirmed the commitment of the Commission in working closely with publishers to ensure that more blind people were able to read in line with the slogan, ‘Let the blind read’.
While calling for intensified collaboration with the NPA in the production of books in accessible formats, he informed that the NCC was already engaged in discussions with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), the Nigeria Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) and other agencies for the inclusion of a national policy that would enable the deployment of Government funds for publishing books that are borne accessible.
He called for the support of NPA in pushing this policy to make more books available in their repository.
The Director-General further stated that it has become imperative to take practical steps to make books available for the blind because the insertion of the clause in the new Copyright Bill would be of no effect if it was left unattended to.
He urged publishers to leverage on the opportunities that WIPO and other development partners were providing in terms of training and funding to explore accessible publishing in view of the huge market and demands from libraries and individuals who want to have access to the materials.
In her remarks, Ms Monica Halil, a representative of Accessible Book Construction (ABC), a public private partnership headed by the WIPO, said the core activity of the organisation in the implementation of the Marrakesh Treaty was the promotion of accessible publishing.
She encouraged those who want to exploit e-publications that “there is the right market with legal requirements for people who are practice able”.
She urged publishers to sign into the ABC Charter for accessible publishing for proper guidance, noting that leveraging on the trainings by the African Publishing Intervention Fund, by registering, would help them in accessing funds for production of accessible books.
The online meeting provided an avenue to address concerns of publishers in the area of producing books in accessible formats and how to make the materials available so that the blind and visually impaired persons can have access to books.
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Anambra State Government Launches SolutionLens to Drive Transparency and Citizen Engagement
Anambra State Government has launched SolutionLens, a technology-driven platform aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in governance.
The platform, developed through a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the Ministry of Information, and the Anambra State ICT Agency, was unveiled on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the Solution Innovation District (SID) Building in Awka.
Speaking at the launch, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, Honourable Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, described SolutionLens as a democratic tool that simplifies the Open Government Partnership (OGP) process.
She emphasized its role in planning, budgeting, and fostering investor confidence through community-based feedback mechanisms.
In her remarks, Mrs. Ogochukwu Orji, the State Coordinator of OGP, noted that SolutionLens is designed to shine a light on public projects, empowering citizens to ask questions, hold the government accountable, and ensure resources are used for the common good.
Key Features of SolutionLens
Centralized digital hub for government projects
Interactive maps with a user-friendly interface
Live chat feature to connect citizens directly with MDAs
A live demonstration of the platform was conducted, followed by the formal inauguration of MDA focal persons, who will ensure the platform remains updated and responsive.
Participants commended Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, for this forward-thinking initiative, describing SolutionLens as a game-changer in governance.
The government urged citizens to actively engage with the platform and spread awareness, emphasizing that this initiative will safeguard the integrity and prosperity of Anambra State for generations to come.
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has been named among the “50 Most Valuable Personalities (50MVPs) in Nigeria’s Digital Economy 2025,” a prestigious recognition celebrating visionary leadership in technology-driven governance.
Governor Alia’s administration has prioritized digital inclusion and ICT development, introducing groundbreaking initiatives that position Benue State at the forefront of Nigeria’s digital economy. Under his leadership, the government has established three key institutions: the Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, the Benue State Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC), and the Benue State Digital Infrastructure Services Management and Enforcement Agency (BENDISMEA).
Since assuming office, Alia has launched several digital initiatives, including training over 40,000 civil servants in e-governance tools and equipping 10,000 youths with digital skills. Additionally, the government has set up 276 e-commerce hubs across council wards to support local businesses and young entrepreneurs.
The BDIC, a core driver of Benue’s tech transformation, has spearheaded projects in digital financial inclusion, AI education, and broadband expansion. The state has also partnered with the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) to establish digital training hubs in all local government areas, targeting 23,000 trainees annually.
Alia’s recognition as one of Nigeria’s top digital leaders will be formalized at the West Africa Convergence Conference (WACC) 2025, scheduled for May 22 at The Colosseum, Lagos. The annual event, organized by Knowhow Media, brings together policymakers and innovators shaping Nigeria’s digital future.
Speaking on the selection process, Dr. Sola Afolabi, Chairman of the 2025 Nomination Committee, praised Alia’s contribution, describing his digital initiatives as “transformational steps that set the benchmark for technology-driven governance.”
Previous editions of the 50MVPs in Nigeria’s Digital Economy have honored notable figures such as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, and NDPC CEO, Dr. Vincent Olatunji.
Governor Alia’s reforms reflect a broader shift towards digital governance in Nigeria, highlighting the potential of technology to drive inclusive economic growth and efficient public administration.
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