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School Curriculum Needs Reappraisal-Sonuga
Jinmi Sonuga is manager (Infrastructure Project), Business Unusual Limited. Sonuga’s experience expands to Technical Business Development & Strategy; CTO Executive Support and CTO Executive Business Management all at Vodafone UK.
He also worked as Project Manager, MainOne Cable Company; Production Engineer, Bidmine PLC; Process Improvement, SORTEX LTD; Head of Technical Sales & Program Management, MainOne Cable Company.
He led the Business Unusual team that provided consultancy assistants for the presidential committee on broadband road map for Nigeria.
Sonuga spoke to peter ugwu on a number of issues
Overview of Business Unusual
Business Unusual is into consultancy and project management practice based in the UK and Nigeria and passionate about delivering value, enhancing performance, and promoting sustainable developments by deploying a practical and hands-on approach to business challenges.
We deliver large scale infrastructure projects. Many consultancies utilise standard methodologies irrespective of the specific business challenge.
At Business Unusual we recognise that every business challenge has a unique element to it which needs to be properly understood so that the appropriate solution is deployed. We focus on executing what is right for your business and not just maintain business as usual.
Business Unusual’s Experience and Services Reach
Our experience and services cut across blue chip organisations to government departments and the SME sector. Our core focus is offering services that provide transformation and penetration of businesses into huge growth markets like Nigeria.
Today, Business Unusual specializes particularly in supporting invested start-ups. Because of our experience we know entrepreneurs are often faced with challenges and risks they may not be aware of so that they are either unable to mitigate the risk, or maximise the opportunity.
In short we help you manage risk and assure success. Sustainable growth and people development is also a key part of our ethos.
We believe that improved performance can only be sustained by developing and adequately equipping resources for the challenges at hand and to come. We do not strive to entrench ourselves but to leave capability within the organisations where we work.
Assessment of Consultancy in Nigeria Telecom Sector
It is challenging but growing at the same time. It is getting better, because individuals and companies are valuing intellectual property now than what we saw in the past, through their ability to bring people into the definition of solutions to challenges companies face.
Especially in Nigeria, we have very peculiar problems even in our peculiar environment, thus, we need help who can help think outside the box.
It is not just about coming up with earthshaking, lovely looking documents; companies must peg discussions on practical and realizable ideas that can lead straight to the implementation stage.
Place of Business Unusual in Developing Nigeria’s Broadband Master Plan
We worked hand in hand with the committee to bring out the excellent product. All hands were on deck, working round the clock, because we tried to make sure the document buys into the ideas of the National ICT Policy and programmes of the ministry of Communications technology and to bring out a document that the operators, the licensees, industry stakeholders and the general public could fall back on.
As the Minister has presented to the stakeholders, the Executive Vice-Chairman of the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) and others concerned at the administrative level will take concerted steps to see the dreams and aspirations contained in the document are realized.
Human Capital Development to Drive the Sector, How Can That Be Achieved?
Human capacity development in the industry is still developing still. We have so many deltas through before we can get to the stage we expect our selves to be.
The essence is to first of all recognize the need, plan towards achieving the goals and work strictly in line with the blueprint.
The truth is that until we have Nigeria youths employable and employed to productively contribute to the GDP and the environment, the society and the economy in general, there will never be enough.
How Can Local Content in Telecom Develop Like The Oil And Gas?
Local content is one of the areas that need to be corrected in the industry. Local content in the ICT is not the same as in the oil and gas.
In the oil and gas sector we refer to Nigerians participating (actively) as skilled workforce in the whole value chain of the oil and gas sector, whether upstream, downstream or drilling of oil.
The policy arose as a result of many qualified Nigerians not giving their places in the determination of how things are management in the sector.
Thus, to address the apathy, Nigerian government came up with such beautiful document and it is working.
However, with the case of the federal government coming up with broadband policy and other programmes is to empower Nigerians; to develop local need and globally relevant solutions.
The solutions can be for hosting, distribution online via the cloud and other means; meaning not just Nollywood, which is the driver of the Nigerian contents now. But we are looking at software, locally designed, developed and distributed worldwide.
For instance, we can have specific language site such as Hausa for local communities in Kano, who at present we expect to surf the net and read everything in English language.
Of course, the reading value will be low. So, local content in IT can come as a way of educational material peculiar to Nigerian environment.
In essence, local content in the telecomm industry should focus on helping Nigerians demonstrate material developed by Nigerians for the consumption by the rest of the world.
Disconnect between Entrepreneurs and the Government
There are various channels to reach the government now. The website is there, especially now a single portal has been created to integrate the activities of the government for easier access of information.
The Federal Ministry of Communication Technology has done a fantastic thing by being the first ministry to provide that singular portal for the public to interact with the government.
That is an aspect of local content, because you would want to have direct not more than one degree separation interaction with the government.
It is a sure way to build our civic engagements. It portends that you must not know somebody in the Ministry or somebody who knows somebody before you can get through to those in the helm of affairs, rather you go to the central portal and make your request.
Is it driver’s licence, passport, or other services, from the comfort of one’s home he can get information on that.
So, the local apps developers can follow that platform or approach the incubation centre(s) and pre-incubation hubs and send their requests, they will get to relevant agencies via the Ministry.
Rating the Synergy between Private and Public Sectors in Driving IT Sector
In telecom sector, the synergy is improving. The evidences are there; what we in the private sector have been able to produce and achieve for the country so far shows that there have been tremendous improvement.
Government has also embraced stakeholders’ representation in articulating agenda for the sector; in other words, professional advices, thoughts, criticisms are taken into cognition by the Government in a very interactive and cordial manner.
Infrastructural Deficit and Harsh Operational Environment
I will pick up one issue that everybody is emphasizing on its negative impact on the sector. That has to do with broadband deployment and the unfriendly attitude of some state and Local Governments as regards arbitrary charges in the process of allocation of Right of Way (RoW).
Now, in the broadband document presented recently to the President Goodluck Jonathan, the Ministry and the stakeholders by the Committee, it is obvious we are not trying to harsh the same thing rather the Federal Government said it is trying to resolve issues.
The Federal Ministries of Works and Communication Technology have strategically worked out acceptable rate regime that will govern the process throughout the country.
And concerned should ensure they participate in removing such bottleneck, because no State or Local Government in Nigeria that would appreciate if it is not covered in the master plan or denied access to the infrastructure.
Government cannot do everything, at the same time the private sector cannot fund everything. In the report, every tier of Government has its assigned roles.
Even the citizens have roles to play; if there is an infrastructure that is faulty or damaged, report it. If you are the one damaging it, stop it! These are kind of things we must come together to tackle.
If Government should build road at a particular area and the residents allow people to damage the road, of course, common sense should tell us that before Government will come back to repair or rehabilitate the road, it has to make sure others have benefited; so, every infrastructure that serve the public should be protected by every member of the public. It is a global responsibility for all Nigeria.
We have to create enabling environment for the sustainability of what we desire. Still on infrastructure, there is a National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIM) that is going on right now.
The Ministry of Communication Technology, the Petroleum Ministry, private sectors, et cetera, are giving their input towards having a wholestic approach, so it is all about getting the basics done, not balloted agenda.
I think with that we will get the power working, the road motorable, and broadband will get to everybody.
Why the industry players are emphasizing on getting broadband available everywhere is because of the cost benefit to the country. For instance, it will reduce traffic, hence one can stay at the comfort of his room transact business or go to nearby access centre and get their work done.
Reappraising School Curriculum
It is absolutely important that the curricula are reappraised to reflect the present IT agenda in the country. If we are looking at providing broadband infrastructure in schools, why do we need to build libraries to put physical books?
Unless we want to showcase books of longevities, like archives, historical artifacts, among others, most of the other data should be online.
Therefore, the curriculum should be revised to incorporate modern teaching and learning techniques and also focus on improving the number of ICT professionals we have in the country. Those are the kind of discussions going on at the level of technical working group.
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Ina Alogwu Joins 9mobile as Chief Digital and Innovation Officer
9mobile has appointed Ina Alogwu as its new Chief Digital and Innovation Officer (CDIO), marking another significant step in the company’s business transformation agenda.
In his new role, Alogwu will be responsible for guiding the development and execution of 9mobile’s long-term strategy across the entire digital and technology ecosystem, including new technologies, digital platforms, and business models while nurturing a culture of innovation within the organization.
His appointment demonstrates 9mobile’s firm commitment to driving digital transformation and enhancing its innovative capabilities to better serve customers and stay ahead of market trends.
Alogwu is a visionary leader and seasoned strategist with nearly two decades of transformative experience in digital commerce, mobile payments, and technology ecosystems, making him an invaluable addition to 9mobile’s leadership team.
He has a proven ability to identify emerging trends and harness them to develop and execute groundbreaking digital products and strategies. His expertise spans product innovation, data strategy implementation, and agile business transformations, all of which have delivered significant and sustainable results across diverse industries and regions.
He joins 9mobile from ARM Holding Company, Nigeria, where he was the Group Director, Digital Transformation and spearheaded innovation initiatives, implemented a robust data strategy, and managed venture-building programmes that supported numerous African tech startups.
His very distinguished and diverse professional journey also includes an impactful tenure at Interswitch Limited, where he held roles such as Group Head, Verve Digital, and Group Head, Payment Processing. In these roles, he led the creation of groundbreaking payment platforms and digital solutions across West and East Africa.
Earlier in his career, Alogwu held roles at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as a Training Specialist and worked at Integrated Business Strategies as a Business Analyst.
Speaking about the appointment, 9mobile CEO Obafemi Banigbe expressed confidence in Alogwu’s ability to lead the company’s innovation efforts, saying, “Alogwu’s broad professional background makes him the perfect fit for our innovative and business transformation journey as he joins a team of recently appointed senior business leaders to drive this process and the next phase of our growth.
“His role is crucial for navigating today’s fast-paced digital environment. And he has been entrusted to lead the charge in harnessing new technologies, driving digital transformation, and ensuring the company remains adaptable to change, which is integral to fostering innovation and positioning 9mobile as a forward-thinking leader in its industry.”
The New CDIO said, “I’m delighted to join 9mobile and collaborate with the CEO and the leadership team on the innovative initiatives already in progress.
As we navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape, I’m eager to leverage my expertise in digital strategy, technology, and innovation to drive 9mobile’s mission to deliver exceptional customer experiences and achieve our strategic objectives.”
Alogwu’s academic credentials further underline his readiness for this role. He holds an Executive Master’s in Digital Transformation and Innovation Leadership from IE Business School, Madrid, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Business from Emeritus Institute, in collaboration with MIT and Columbia Business School.
He also completed the Senior Management Program at Lagos Business School, Pan-Atlantic University, and earned a BSc. in Geology & Mining from the University of Jos, Nigeria.
His education is further enriched by certifications in Product Management, Lean Six Sigma, and Strategic Innovation, equipping him with a robust foundation to drive innovation, lead digital transformation, and achieve business excellence in competitive landscapes.
His ability to combine academic knowledge with practical expertise has positioned him as a trailblazer in the digital commerce and technology sectors.
Beyond his technical expertise, Alogwu is adept at cultivating and managing strategic relationships with global multilateral organizations and financial institutions, leveraging these partnerships to unlock profitable opportunities. He has consistently demonstrated excellence in leading multicultural teams and navigating complex, multi-stakeholder environments to deliver transformative outcomes.
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NAICOM Signs Agreement with NDPC on Data Protection in Insurance Sector
The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), has signed agreement with the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) with the aim of enhancing data protection within the insurance sector.
According to NAICOM, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has as its objectives training and capacity building in the area of providing training to enhance awareness and skills in data protection, establishing privacy clinics by setting up specialised clinics to address data protection concerns and provide guidance.
NAICOM said other objectives of the agreement include conducting compliance activities, regularly monitoring and enforcing compliance with data protection regulations, promoting awareness in the area of educating insurance companies on the importance of data protection and the benefits of adhering to best practices.
Developing data protection guidelines through creation of specialized guidelines for insurance institutions to ensure they are equipped to handle data protection responsibilities effectively.
NAICOM said the collaboration marked a significant milestone in safeguarding the personal data of insurance policyholders and promoting trust in the insurance sector.
The commission said to ensure the effective implementation of the agreement, an implementation committee would be established. The committee, the commission said, would comprise of representatives from the two agencies, as well as other key industry associations, including the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) and the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB).
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5 Benefits of MTN Mobile Ads for your Business
Businesses worldwide are increasingly embracing mobile advertising services, allowing them to connect with potential customers directly on their smartphones and engage with them more effectively.
This trend is rapidly gaining momentum, and companies in Nigeria are also taking part in this shift.
Every day, more Nigerian businesses are seeking the most efficient strategies to reach their target audiences and convert them into loyal customers.
MTN Nigeria is redefining digital advertisement with MTN Mobile Ads. With a rich customer base of 79.5 million subscribers in Nigeria, MTN Mobile Ads continues to help businesses reach millions of customers nationwide.
Here are five reasons you should use MTN Mobile Ads for your business advertisements:
Targeted marketing
MTN Mobile Ads uses first party data to enable specific targeting of audience based on behaviour, interests and demographic. This ensures that your marketing efforts are directed toward the most relevant audiences, thereby increasing engagement and conversion.
Data-Driven Insights:
Businesses can gain valuable insights from their advertising campaigns, allowing them to fine-tune their strategies for maximum impact. This data-driven approach helps in optimizing campaigns based on real user behaviour and preferences
Diverse advertising formats
This service supports several advertising formats including targeted SMS, marketplace listing on the MyMTN app, display banners, and Rich messaging services (RCS) across both mobile and web platforms. This versatility allows your business to customize your marketing strategy to suit different audience preferences and increase engagement opportunities.
Data-free solutions
MTN Mobile Advertising provides data-free solutions. That means users can view your Ads with or without data. This feature significantly increases engagement rate as it allows your business connect with customers who may have been avoiding ads to save their data.
Cost-effective
With MTN Mobile Ads, you can choose an advertising plan that suits your budget. This flexibility allows businesses to enjoy the benefits of advertising without overspending.
As competition in businesses increase, the need to make advertising a crucial part of your marketing strategy cannot be over-emphasized.
MTN’s Mobile advertising services are the most result-oriented strategy your business should engage in so you can have the same opportunities your competitors may have.
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