Category: Science & Tech

Google ambassador encourages women  to utilise opportunities in programmes

Women

By Stellamaris Ashinze

Lagos, June 30, 2024 (NAN) A Woman Techmaker Ambassador (WTA), Mrs Gbemisola Esho, on Sunday encouraged women to take advantage of the opportunities in Google’s Women Techmakers Programme.

In an interview  with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) In Lagos, Esho said that the programme was a global initiative aimed at empowering women in technology and bridging the gender gap in the tech industry.

According to her, this programme works to give women visibility, foster a more inclusive and diverse environment for women in tech through various programmes, events and initiatives.

“Google’s Women Techmakers Programme has made significant strides in promoting women’s empowerment in the tech industry.

“By providing opportunities for education, networking and career development, the programme has helped to increase women’s representation in tech and create a more inclusive and diverse workplace.

‘’As a result, more women are pursuing careers in technology, and the industry is benefiting from their diverse perspectives and contributions,’’ she said.

Esho said that there are two streams: the Women Techmakers Membership, which was free and open to all to join.

She said the other stream was the Women Techmakers Ambassador Programme which was by selection after application.

According to her, the key components of the Women Techmakers Programme include events and workshops, mentorship and leadership programmes and community building.

Esho said that the programme organised events and workshops to bring together women in tech, promoted networking and provided opportunities for learning and skill development.

Esho said that these events included conferences, hackathons, coding workshops and panel discussions in which participants gained exposure to cutting-edge technologies, connected with industry experts and enhanced their technical skills.

She said that Google offered mentorship and leadership programmes to help women in tech advance their careers and develop their skills.

“Mentors provide guidance, support and career advice to mentees while leadership programmes equip women with the knowledge, skills and confidence to take on leadership roles in the tech industry,” she added.

Esho noted that the community building programme facilitated the creation of online and offline communities where women in tech could connect, share experiences and support each other.

She said that these communities provided a platform for women to discuss challenges, seek advice and collaborate on projects.

According to her, the programme also hosts regular meetups and networking events to strengthen connections and foster a sense of belonging.

Esho urged women to take advantage of all these opportunities to develop industry relevant skills. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

SKA/COF

============

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Data protection, key ethical consideration for Nigeria’s AI influx  – Expert

AI

By Stellamaris Ashinze

Lagos, June 30, 2024 (NAN) Mr Jide Awe, a Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy Advisor, on Sunday stressed that privacy and data protection are key ethical considerations for the influx of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the country.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, Awe said that one reason necessitating increased attention to data protection and privacy was the immense reliance of AI systems on data.

He said that data must be collected, used, processed and stored ethically to protect user privacy and respect their privacy rights.

Awe, who is also the Founder, Jidaw.com, said that bias could be problematic in AI.

According to him, in order to ensure AI is not used to foster and entrench unfairness, discrimination, and oppression, it is ethically responsible to identify and mitigate bias in the data that trains AI systems.

“Other important ethical considerations in use of AI are responsibility and accountability; What is the responsibility of developers? How can the deployer, project owner or the user be held accountable for the actions of AI systems?

“Though Nigeria currently lacks a comprehensive legal framework for AI, data protection regulations are essential in line with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA).

“Regulation should enable impact assessment to evaluate the potential social and ethical impacts of AI systems before and after deployment,’’ he said.

According to him, human oversight is also crucial as AI systems are programmed machines that can not think for themselves.

Awe noted that there was a need to ensure AI-made decisions were guided by common sense and critical thinking.

According to him, unequal access to AI technology can also exacerbate existing inequalities, adding that inclusive AI development that benefits all Nigerians is crucial.

The STI advisor said that transparency in AI decisionmaking was crucial, instead of the black box approach.

According to him, it is important to know AI systems reach decisions which make human oversight and intervention possible.

Awe said: “Regulation on AI should be efficient, effective, and flexible to adapt to the changing circumstances of our technology-driven world and to foster innovation.

“Having standards and certification processes for AI systems could promote responsible development and use.

“Regulation should also promote an environment of continuous learning and ensure standards are kept up to date.’’

Awe described the country’s  preparedness towards AI as unsurprisingly a combination of positives and challenges.

He said that the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy had started the AI readiness process with the development of a National AI Strategy, which began with an AI Experts workshop.

Awe said that this workshop led to the launch of Nigeria’s first Multilingual Large Language Model (LLM).

According to him, Nigeria also collaborates in international AI development efforts and is a signatory to relevant declarations.

He added that there were some AI development and advocacy efforts, along with capacity building and talent training programmes in Nigeria.

The STI expert, however, noted that the level of AI-readiness activity remained low with minimal impact, saying that it was also primarily driven by private research initiatives.

“Unreliable internet, limited computing power and inconsistent public electricity, coupled with inadequate talent and research capabilities are major obstacles to AI development in the country,’’ Awe stressed. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

SKA/COF

=========

Edited by Christiana Fadare

MTN announces construction of West Africa’s largest data centre

By Stellamaris Ashinze

Lagos, June 29, 2024 (NAN) MTN Nigeria on Saturday announced the construction of its West African largest data centre, a facility with a 1,500-rack and Tier 4 data centre within the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a Tier 4 data centre is built to be completely fault-tolerant, has redundancy for every component and an expected uptime of 99.995 per cent.

This means it can withstand a wide range of potential disruptions and offers the most reliable infrastructure. 

The Chief Technical Officer, MTN, Mr Mohammed Rufai, told newsmen in Lagos that construction of the data centre was a move to enhance Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

Rufai said that the data centre was set to play a pivotal role in meeting the growing data demands and digital needs of businesses and consumers across the country.

He said that the new data centre would support MTN’s infrastructure and serve as a vital resource for businesses across Nigeria.

“Businesses that require data centre capacity can now forgo maintaining their server rooms.

‘’Our facility will provide the space and services needed, enabling companies to digitalise their operations and improve efficiency.

‘’The data centre will also enhance the delivery of content from major tech companies like Meta and Google, bringing content closer to Nigerian users and improving access speeds,’’ he said.

According to him, this local hosting of content will significantly boost user experience and network efficiency.

Rufai highlighted the critical need for expanded data processing capabilities, driven by significant growth in data usage and the emergence of new services.

“We see a high demand in the market, with data usage growing significantly.

“And in order to cater to demand and prepare for future growth, MTN is expanding and modernising its data centre capacity,” the MTN official said.

According to him, the project is not just a technological investment but also a catalyst for economic growth.

Rufai said by providing scalable and adaptable infrastructure, it would enable businesses, particularly Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), to leverage cloud services and other digital solutions.

He stressed that this would, in turn, drive innovation, efficiency, and competitiveness across various sectors of the economy.

He emphasised MTN’s readiness to partner with startups and MSMEs, offering numerous opportunities for collaboration, particularly in cloud services.

According to him, aligned with MTN’s Ambition 2025 strategy, the data centre signals the company’s commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) goals.

He said that the facility would eventually utilise efficient cooling systems and a combination of traditional energy sources, gas and renewable energy.

Rufai stressed the importance of these energy measures, saying it would significantly reduce its carbon footprint.

According to him, up to 60 per cent of the power consumption of a typical data centre in our clime is for cooling, MTN’s highly efficient systems will ensure it meets the sustainability targets.

The MTN official added that as Nigeria’s digital landscape advanced, the new data centre marked a significant milestone.

He said that it captured a continued drive for innovation, quality,  growth and fostered a connected, modern life aiming to provide improved services, economic benefits and a strong digital infrastructure for the future. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

SKA/COF

=============

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Certification

By Jessica Dogo

Abuja, June 28, 2024 (NAN) The Uptime Institute Professional Services has certified Galaxy Backbone’s (GBB) Tier IV Data Centre for its excellence and reliability.

This is contained in a statement in Abuja on Friday by Mr Chidi Okpala, Head Marketing and Corporate Communications, GBB.

Okpala said the prestigious Tier IV Certification of Constructed Facility (TCCF) marked a significant milestone in its commitment to excellence and reliability in digital infrastructure services.

“This prestigious certification recognises GBB’s commitment to delivering the highest standards of reliability, security, and operational excellence in its Cloud and Data Centre operations.

“The Tier IV certification is the maximum level of Data Centre certification offered by Uptime Institute, signifying a facility that offers 99.995 per cent availability.

“It affirms that the GBB’s Data Centre meets stringent criteria for fault tolerance, redundancy, and robust operational processes, enhanced security and providing unparalleled service to its clients.”

He highlighted Galaxy Backbone’s Tier IV Data Centre as fault tolerant, which designed the centre to withstand multiple equipment failures and maintain continuous operations, ensuring maximum uptime for critical applications.

“Redundancy in power, cooling, and network systems, ensuring no single point of failure can disrupt services.

“24/7 monitoring and management of advanced systems and a dedicated team of experts providing round-the-clock surveillance and management of the facility.

“Enhanced State-of-the-art security measures, including biometric access controls, surveillance systems, and multi-layered security protocols, protect the integrity and confidentiality of client data.

“Sustainable practices including energy-efficient technologies and environmentally friendly operations, aligning with global sustainability goals,” he said.

Okpala quoted the Managing Director of GBB, Prof. Ibrahim Adeyanju, as saying that this was a testament to unwavering dedication to the agency’s excellence in cloud, data centre and business continuity services.

Adeyanju said this would strengthen GBB’s drive and commitment around data sovereignty, which encourages public and private sectors to host and collate its IT applications within the country.

He said the achievement would further position Galaxy Backbone as a preferred partner for organisations seeking robust and resilient data centre solutions.

He said this certification would not only reinforce GBB’s position as a leader in digital transformation services, but also assure its clients reliability for the highest levels of service availability and security.

“We remain committed to driving innovation and delivering world-class services to support the digital transformation of Nigeria and beyond.

“This certification thus, complements its already existing Tier III Uptime certified Data Centre in Abuja and presents a critical milestone for Galaxy Backbone as it continues to expand its services.

“This also strengthens GBB’s drive and commitment around data sovereignty, which encourages public and private organisations to host and collocate its IT applications within the country.

“Galaxy Backbone is a transformation enabler, a platform and aggregator of digital services for effective delivery across public and private sector organisations.

“Beyond its world class data centres, Galaxy Backbone has connected about 30 states with its fibre optic cables providing secure, high-speed connectivity to and between organisations.

“Its Security Operations Centre (SOC), ensures the provision of secure digital services across its stakeholders and customers,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

JEZ/ADA

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

Financial

By Funmilola Gboteku
Lagos, June 28, 2024 (NAN) The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says it will continue to implement more policies to tackle cybersecurity challenges, foster innovation to ensure stability and integrity of the financial system.

The Deputy Governor, Financial Systems Stability at CBN, Mr Philip Ikeazor, said this during a two-day Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC) Fintech Conference held in Lagos.

The  theme of the event was: “Building Trust in the Digital Age: Balancing Performance with Compliance.”

According to him, issues such as cybersecurity threats, data breaches, and digital fraud are persistent concerns that could erode consumer confidence in the system.

Ikeazor said  the apex bank, in addition to existing measures is working on new regulations to further enhance performance and compliance.

He said the new regulations would focus on two key areas; corporate governance and licensing requirements.

“The new regulation is crucial to mitigate the risks of the digital era,” he said.

He  explained that the new regulation was  aimed at improving the level of compliance and corporate governance practice by fintechs in the country.

Ikeazor said the digital banking platforms have made financial services more accessible to millions of Nigerians, fostering greater financial inclusion and convenience.

He, however, said that digitalisation also brought challenges that could  erode trust if not properly managed.

“Every organisation should conduct its business processes in compliance with the law and the various regulations. Financial institutions need to take the compliance function as extremely important.

“Corporate governance is also very critical. Organisations need to have the right structure and be effective transparent and accountable in the administration of their affairs,” he said.

Also, the Chief Convener and  Chief Executive Officer of FITC, Mrs Chizor Malize, said the emergence of fintech has revolutionised financial services, shifting consumer behaviour toward digital consumption and away from traditional brick-and-mortar establishments globally.

Malize said that the rise of companies such as PayPal and Square, alongside innovations like blockchain technology and mobile payment systems had demonstrated the immense  potential of fintech to disrupt traditional banking models and enhance consumer convenience.

She noted that Africa stood at the forefront of this fintech revolution with companies like Interswitch, Flutterwave, Moniepoint, and others leading the charge.

Malize added that  Nigerian banks such as Providus Bank, GTBank, and Stanbic IBTC and others were embracing fintech innovations to meet evolving consumer demands.

“These initiatives showcase Africa’s potential to drive financial inclusion and economic growth through digital innovation.

“With the widespread mobile technology adoption and a growing demand for financial services, these platforms have transformed digital payments, financial inclusion, and banking services, contributing significantly to Africa’s fintech revolution.

“As we strive for peak performance and efficiency, we must uphold the highest standards of compliance and integrity,” she said.

Malize added that strong regulation and compliance were  essential for ensuring financial system stability, which was  the focus of this conference.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the FITC is a not-for-profit professional organisation, which has the CBN, the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, and all licensed banks in Nigeria as members.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
FOG/JNC
========
Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Storage

By Stellamaris Ashinze

Lagos, June 28, 2024 (NAN) Data  Knowledge Information Privacy Protection Initiative (DKIPPI) has called for the review of the National  Identification Management  Commission (NIMC) data storage  system.

The Chief Executive Officer of DKIPPI, Mr Tokunbo Smith, made call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

Smith, also a Data  Protection  Controller, spoke against the backdrop of the NIMC’s statement that five websites are allegedly harvesting Nigerians’ data fraudulently.

The statement was against the backdrop of the recent alarm raised by the Paradigm Initiative that some websites are selling Nigerians’ National Identification Number, Bank Verification Number, and International Passport, among others.

The NIMC in a statement issued by its Head of Corporate Communications, Mr Kayode Adegoke, said the websites engaging in the illegal harvest of data without its authority include idfinder.com.ng and Verify.Ng/sign in.

Others, according to him, are championtech.com.ng., trustyonline.com, and
anyverify.com.

The commission, however,  noted that Nigerians’ sensitive data have not been compromised as claimed by Paradigm Initiative.

Smith said that the challenge of data harvesting experienced by NIMC could be averted if the data storage is domiciled in Nigeria.

“It is time for Nigeria to look inward and encourage local content to avert challenges of data harvesting.

“An issue of such weakness experienced sometime 2022 and having such again is really unhealthy for a national critical  infrastructure,” he said.

He said the NIMC storage  infrastructure  should be domiciled in Nigeria handled by qualified and experienced human resources, robust infrastructure and secured platforms.

‘’We have such issues when the right steps are not taking before awarding of contract.

‘’At this point, there is little or nothing that the  Data Protection Commission can do.

‘’And that is why I have always emphasised the need for NDPC  to be independent of any ministry or minister but to  report directly  to the presidency,’’ he said.

He added that NIMC employees should be trained and disciplined for non-compliance with policies.

NAN reports that Mr Bosun Tijani,  the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy of Nigeria, said that investigation has commenced into the alleged breach of data of Nigerians domiciled at the NIMC.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Tijani said the NIMC and National Data Protection Commission have commenced a probe into the matter. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
SKA/JNC
=======
Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

MSMEs

By Stellamaris Ashinze
Lagos, June 27, 2024 (NAN) MoniePoint MFB, an Africa financial technology institution, on Thursday, reiterated its commitment to providing peerless and holistic support for Macro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The Managing Director, Moniepoint MFB, Mr Babatunde Olofin, said this in a statement in Lagos to mark the World MSMEs Day.

Olofin said the support would boost the MSMEs capacity to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He said that the MSMEs had continued to demonstrate remarkable resilience and adaptability in facilitating economic growth and development across borders, in spite of economic downturns and global crises.

“Moniepoint  is  driven by the increasing need to improve access to financial services to power sustained and inclusive progress to support the MSMEs on  capacity building among others,” he said.

The New Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that following a resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly in April 2017, June 27, was designated as MSMEs Day  to raise awareness of their tremendous contributions to the achievement of the SDGs.

He said that MSMEs could lead the change toward a sustainable and prosperous future with the proper support from governments, financial institutions, and consumers at large.

According to him, enablers like Moniepoint is willing to partner with all stakeholders to create an environment that supports MSMEs in their efforts to invest, trade, and thrive in local and global markets.

“We recognise that MSMEs are the lifeblood of the Nigerian economy, millions of people depend on MSMEs for food, daily necessities, and sustenance.

‘’For businesses across Nigeria, we have just one promise, we are always going to be here to make you happy.

‘’As we celebrate this year’s World MSME Day, we must all acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and perseverance of MSMEs and the driving force not only to bolster economic stability but also foster sustainable development,” he said.

According to him, MSMEs are helping to eradicate poverty and improve quality of life for  Nigerians.

He said that by empowering MSMEs stakeholders pave the way for a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for all, especially the coming generations.

He noted that as the sector closest to local communities, MSMEs are essential for creating local jobs, empowering women, youth, persons with disabilities and other groups in vulnerable situations.

‘’Commemorating MSMEs Day is a recognition that this vital sector, agents of innovation, growth, and sustainability has tremendous potential to unlock critical pathways to accelerate SDG progress across the globe,” he said.

Olofin said that Moniepoint provided incentives ranging from gift vouchers, fuel vouchers and two months sewing material  to a tailor, among others to mark the day. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
SKA/JNC
========
Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Why undergraduates need to think space – Foundation

Space

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

Abuja, June 27, 2024 (NAN) Learnspace Foundation, an NGO, on Thursday, encouraged students to develop interest in space, saying that it appears abstract but has diverse opportunities.

Dr Anne Agi, President of the foundation, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said that everything about human existence revolved around space science technology.

“Most people think that space is abstract and it doesn’t affect our country, but technically, that is not true, space is everything, space is bigger than what we think.

“The private sector is really engaging and the possibilities are endless, what you need to do is to equip yourself because the opportunities will come.

“You need to understand that times are changing, this is the time to get interested,’’ she said.

Agi, also a Space Law lecturer at the University of Calabar, Cross River, said that most thoughts about space science technology were at some point speculations until proven to be true.

The foundation’s president added that the globe was continuously engaging in writing papers, making arguments, having conferences, seminars, all to understand space science.

”The more we rub minds, go for mute courts competitions, the benefits will come.

“I am going to encourage anyone that is remotely interested in space to actively get interested.

“Since I got into space there has never been a down time and the opportunities keep opening, in spite of the non availability of funds,’’ she said.

Agi recognised that few Nigerian universities offered courses around space science technology like Space Law, Astronomy, Space Engineering, adding that interested students shouldn’t be discouraged.

She further said that the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC), had given universities a certain percentage to grant courses that impacted their communities, hence Space law in UNICAL.

“NUC just adopted a new pattern of curriculum for universities where a certain percentage are the recommended courses and 35 per cent is for the university.

“Whatever courses the university wants to do within that 35 per cent impact in their community is left for them.

“NUC has given universities that leeway, it is left for the universities to recognise that it is a viable branch of law and undertake it under their elective courses,’’ she said.

Agi added that the Learnspace foundation was committed to propagating space education, engaging relevant stakeholders to promote space activities in the country and globally.

She said that the major challenge towards understanding space among the people, was poor awareness, but they were advancing in creating the awareness, in spite of paucity of funds.

Agi said, “We have raised an entire generation of students who are very interested in space and knowledge because they went for space law competitions.

“We are still contending with the disbelief of people but we are doing our best.’’ (NAN)www.nannews.ng

NIU/BRM

=============

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Review

By Jessica Dogo

Abuja, June 26, 2024 (NAN) The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) and Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) have reviewed Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for air conditioners in Nigeria.

The review, which has the support of Clean Cooling Collaborative (CCC), was done at a technical committee meeting on Wednesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the inception of this review process was marked by a successful stakeholders’ workshop on May 15.

The Director-General of ECN, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, said that the organisations had been working diligently and collectively with the aim of enhancing energy efficiency and promoting climate-friendly cooling solutions.

Abdullahi said this would contribute significantly to Nigeria’s climate goals and sustainable energy access.

According to him, a crucial component of the project is scaling up energy-efficient and climate-friendly cooling in Nigeria’s nationally determined contribution revision.

“These organisations have been diligently working on this project.

“Our collective effort is aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and promoting climate-friendly cooling solutions, thereby contributing significantly to Nigeria’s climate goals and sustainable energy access.

“A crucial component of the project is scaling up energy-efficient and climate-friendly cooling in Nigeria’s nationally determined contribution revision,” he said.

He urged the committee to approach its deliberations with utmost diligence, expertise, and collaborative spirit, adding that it will not only influence national standards but also contribute to Nigeria’s global commitment to combat climate change.

Earlier, the Director-General of SON, Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, said that the review was not just about meeting today’s need but anticipating and preparing for the future to enable Nigeria participates in continental and global trade.

Okeke, represented by Olalekan Omoniyi, Deputy Director, Standards Development, said that setting appropriate standards for energy would contribute to global effort in combating climate change.

According to him, it will also enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a leader in sustainable energy solution potentially attracting more international investment and partnership.

“By setting appropriate standard for energy efficiency, we are not only contributing to global effort to combat climate change.

“It will also enhance Nigeria’s reputation as one of the leading countries in sustainable energy solution, potentially attracting more international investment and partnership,” he said.

The Committee Chairman, Nelson Chukwu, said that one of the objectives of the meeting was to review and scrutinise drafts.

Chukwu said that the committee must pay attention to details and ensure that the standard was robust, scientifically sound and tailored to the scientific needs and conditions of the environment.

He added that the committee was to establish a benchmark to drive the industry to a higher efficiency, while maintaining the balance between performance and cost effectiveness.

“As we deliberate, let us have it at the back of our minds that energy efficiency is not just a technical requirement,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

JEZ/KAE/ADA

======

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman/Deji Abdulwahab

=====