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5G Connectivity Holds Enormous Potential to Advance Innovation and Economic Development in Nigeria – Carvalho

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Julia Carvalho
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Julia Carvalho is the General Manager for IBM Growth Markets in Africa. Julia is responsible for IBM’s business operations, growing the partner ecosystem and driving client satisfaction across multiple regions. She has an extensive experience in the IT and energy industry.

Julia Carvalho, General Manager for IBM Growth Markets in Africa

Prior to her appointment as General Manager, IBM Growth Markets, Africa Ms. Carvalho held the position of General Manager for Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde and Sao Tome. She helped expand IBM’s footprint and led the digital transformation journeys of clients around our key strategic imperatives of Hybrid Cloud and AI.  
Before joining IBM, Ms. Carvalho held led sales at Halliburton – Landmark Software and Services and previously served as a Professor and Researcher at the University of Lisbon. In prior roles, Ms. Carvalho was a consultant with Sonangol P&P and Sonagas and led the Natural Resources business unit at Sinfic in Angola.
In this interview with Nigeria Nigeria CommunicationsWeek reporter, Carvalho spoke on growth of 5G in Sub- Saharan Africa, and the role of Edge computing in digital transformation in Nigeria . Excerpts.

 

Could you share with us the role of IBM Edge Computing in digital transformation in Nigeria?

5G growth in the region is expected to develop rapidly in the second half of the decade and continue into the 2030s. This will have economic impact on Nigeria’s GDP and contribute to overall growth in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The greatest benefit will be the contribution to innovation and economic development and IBM believes 5G connectivity has enormous potential to advance industries ranging from streaming and communications to advanced robotics and manufacturing. The complexity of telco networks today and the speed of change has made management and control of infrastructure extremely painful. It is clear the tools, systems and methods of managing networks today are simply not fit for purpose for the network of tomorrow.

To advance the rollout of 5G connectivity worldwide, communications services providers (CSPs) are turning to AI-powered automation and network orchestration to improve the control and management of networking to deliver faster customer experiences. Innovations like network slicing allow organizations to set service levels for each device appropriate to their use of the network. For example, an autonomous vehicle can be supported by very low latency while an HD video camera can be allocated high bandwidth.  AI has the potential to quickly enable changes in the network that optimize network performance and reliability by applying machine learning, helping CSPs deliver on the promise of 5G.

Edge computing will offer Nigeria’s companies a more efficient alternative by processing and analysing data closer to the point where it’s created. Because data does not traverse over a network to a cloud or data center to be processed, latency is significantly reduced. Edge computing — and mobile edge computing on 5G networks — enables faster and more comprehensive data analysis, creating the opportunity for deeper insights, faster response times and improved performance and data security, and enhance customer experiences in the region.

Nigeria has licensed 5G operators who are yet to roll out services, how ready is the market for 5G services in terms of device availability?

Nigeria is progressing well in the rollout of 5G with the completion of the spectrum allocation. The next step will be to put the right infrastructure in place for networks to handle the immense numbers of connected devices. As the Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Professor Umar Garba Danbatta, has said, a collective effort is required toward Nigeria realizing the full benefits of the 5G rollout.

This is why we are more than happy to partner with the Nigerian government and the respective telcos to help with the successful rollout of 5G in the country. Beyond providing pipelines and bandwidth, we’re making edge services and 5G happen by delivering the capabilities, expertise and outcomes that our customers demand at scale, more securely and efficiently with our hybrid cloud architecture – IBM Cloud for Telecommunications. We are able to help telecoms deploy and modernize their core networks while giving telcos access to our rich ecosystem of partners for add-on solutions and use cases that fit the specific needs of the individual telco.

We also have a long history of working with the world’s largest telcos to help drive their digital transformation as they modernize workloads. In fact, 83% of the world’s telcos are IBM clients.

5G adoption brings about increased data generation and need for storage. How can these data be managed effectively?

It is true that 5G adoption will increase data generation. Be it audio, video, sensory or telemetry, every device produces data every second, and it is estimated that 2.5 exabytes of data are produced each day. Those bytes need to be stored somewhere, otherwise, they get discarded since many devices can store little or no data. So, what do we do with all that data and where do you store it?

In one of our recent studies, 74% of CEOs believe cloud computing will be the most helpful technology for their organization to deliver results over the next 2-3 years. As a result, we are laser-focused on the $1 trillion hybrid-cloud opportunities and we are investing in open innovation and security. Already, less than 25% of workloads have moved to the cloud, which leaves a majority still to migrate to the cloud.

IBM is the leader in the new era of hybrid cloud with full-stack capabilities including an AI-enabled software portfolio that has been retooled with open technologies. Our approach to cloud storage is to give clients the freedom of working on multiple clouds allowing them to “build once, deploy anywhere” – on-premise, at the edge, on any cloud, from any vendor. As our clients are not only looking to store their data but gain insights from it, our software is infused with enterprise-grade AI from Watson, which can be applied to their data, no matter where it lives.

We see this as unique from all other cloud providers – who claim to have “hybrid cloud offerings” – but require clients to move their data to their public cloud to take advantage of data management. At the same time, we see other providers and hyperscalers as our partners because, in order to leverage innovation happening with cloud and AI, clients need a platform that can run across every major cloud provider. This is what IBM’s hybrid cloud platform delivers.

What are you doing differently from what data centres offer organisations?

As I mentioned previously, we don’t just offer hybrid-cloud solutions to our partners, we offer an ecosystem of products and solutions that allows our partners to bring value and to their clients.

Our partners often operate in complex, multi-national and highly regulated industries, and we understand the importance of embedding security and compliance across all platforms – including public clouds and on-premises – to harness the power of cloud.

For example, some of Africa’s major banks, including Nigeria’s United Bank of Africa, have turned to us for our hybrid cloud and AI capabilities to unlock digital innovation and continue their work to develop digital-first solutions, ultimately aiming to broaden access to financial services. Banks face unique challenges when it comes to balancing innovation and regulatory compliance. We have utilised IBM’s extensive experience and leadership in security and data privacy in the financial services industry to fuel transformation by helping banks modernize, transform their operations, and offer innovation to their customers. We are able to achieve this through intelligent, cloud-based, digital-first innovation built on our hybrid cloud and AI capabilities

What have you put in-place to ensure that sensitive data stored with you are well protected?

Security is at the heart of our enterprise cloud adoption solutions. IBM has earned the trust of our clients by responsibly managing their most valuable data for more than a century.

And as the battle for consumer trust takes place on multiple fronts, from the ability to make decisions understandable and explainable to providing consumers with confidence that their personal data is being protected against cyberattacks – telcos will continue to invest in cybersecurity and AI will play an even more crucial role in helping  identify and respond to threats more efficiently, as they move towards a “zero trust” approach to further reduce risks.

We’re already witnessing this shift as telcos recognize the importance of security as a fundamental element to their transformation – 87 percent of CEO’s in Nigeria said data security being embedded throughout the cloud architecture​ is important or extremely important, in most cases, to successful digital initiatives.

A hybrid cloud model keeps telcos in control of their data by infusing enterprise level security in all aspects of the workflows they manage, as well as for those of customers and partners. With an open hybrid cloud approach, telcos can safely monetize their data because they can continue to own the keys to it, maintain control over privacy settings and integrate security and compliance across the breadth of their IT workloads.

 

 


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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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ACAMB Champions Bankers Wellness with Aerobics Fitness Session

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As part of its commitment to promoting a healthier and more resilient banking workforce, the Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB) is organizing a special Aerobics Fitness Session on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at the Lagoon Front of the Eko Atlantic City.

The session is open to all bankers and marketing communication professionals within the industry and will feature a lineup of fun and energizing activities aimed at boosting physical and mental wellbeing.

With stress levels and burnout on the rise in high-pressure sectors like banking, ACAMB is taking, as it has done over the years, proactive steps to encourage lifestyle habits that support overall wellness and productivity.

Participants will begin the morning with a body warm-up and short walk to get their energy flowing, followed by an exciting dance aerobics session designed to elevate heart rates and lift spirits.

The day will continue with interactive fitness games that promote movement and team bonding, and will wrap up with a friendly but motivating fitness challenge to inspire healthy competition and personal bests.

“Bankers are vital to the financial ecosystem, and their wellness must be a priority,” said Rasheed Bolarinwa, President of ACAMB.

“This aerobics session is a powerful way to foster a culture of health, team bonding, and preventive care. It reflects our belief as ExCO that a strong mind and body, are essential for long-term professional excellence.”

The session is expected to kick off early in the morning to take advantage of the fresh morning air, allowing participants to start their weekend with energy, movement, and connection. It also presents an opportunity to unwind and build camaraderie amongst colleagues outside the traditional office setting.

This initiative is one of several wellness-focused programms ACAMB is rolling out to reinforce the importance of employee wellbeing in corporate and marketing communication and the broader banking ecosystem.

The Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB) is the recognized professional association for marketing communications and public affairs executives in Nigeria’s banking industry.

ACAMB drives ethical communication standards, promotes internal and external stakeholder engagement, and supports member banks in advancing reputation, trust, employee growth and wellbeing.


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DStv Makes History: Inducted into Brand Africa Hall of Fame as Africa’s Most Admired Media Brand

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DStv, Africa’s leading entertainment platform, has been officially recognised as the #1 Most Admired African Media Brand in the Brand Africa 100 | Africa’s Best Brands 2025 rankings.

This recognition also sees DStv inducted into the prestigious Brand Africa Hall of Fame, a distinction reserved for iconic African brands that have significantly shaped the continent’s global image and competitiveness over the years.

The announcement was made at a high-profile ceremony hosted at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in Addis Ababa, where leaders from across the African media and branding landscape gathered to honour the continent’s most impactful brands.

Launched in 1995, DStv has evolved from a digital satellite television pioneer into a content powerhouse, transforming the African viewing experience through continuous innovation, investment in local content, and a deep commitment to telling African stories.

“This honour reflects the incredible journey we’ve taken with our audiences across Africa. Being named Africa’s most admired media brand and joining the Brand Africa Hall of Fame is not just a celebration of where we’ve come from—it’s a reaffirmation of where we’re going.

“Our commitment to local storytelling, cultural authenticity, and innovation remains stronger than ever.

“We are proud to be a brand that not only entertains but uplifts and connects Africans through stories that matter.” States Calvo Mawela, Group CEO of MultiChoice.

Each year, the Brand Africa 100 survey identifies the most admired brands across the continent, based on independent research conducted in over 30 African countries, representing over 85% of Africa’s population and GDP, with more than 150,000 brand mentions and 5,930 unique brands.

The rankings are compiled through a rigorous process led by research partners including GeoPoll, Kantar, Integrate, and Analysis, making it the only pan-African, research-led and non-commercial brand equity study of its kind.

DStv’s induction into the Hall of Fame further cements its position not just as a media brand, but as a cultural force that continues to shape narratives and inspire pride across Africa. Through its investments in local productions, partnerships with African creators, and focus on quality storytelling, DStv remains at the forefront of Africa’s growing creative economy.

DStv was also honoured with the same top recognition in 2024, reinforcing its consistent excellence and enduring connection with audiences across Africa. Since its launch 30 years ago with just 16 channels, DStv has evolved into a dynamic content powerhouse, offering a rich mix of local productions, global entertainment, and integrated streaming options.

Today, it serves millions of households across the continent, delivering hundreds of channels and platforms that reflect the diversity, creativity, and aspirations of African viewers.


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The Silent Killer of Great Companies: A Guide To Why Your Processes Will Break (and How to Fix Them) 

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By Tolulope Obianwu

Every high-growth company experiences a moment when its engine sputters—quietly at first. Emails slip through cracks, customers wait too long, and once-smooth systems start breaking under pressure. This rarely looks like failure; it feels like chaos.

Tolu Obianwu

The truth? Your team didn’t fail. Your process did.

More accurately, the process you never designed to scale.

I’ve led operations and strategy at some of Africa’s fastest-growing fintech companies, building teams and systems that power complex payment infrastructure. And I’ve seen it repeatedly: velocity hides inefficiency—until it doesn’t.

This isn’t just a fintech problem. It’s a scaling problem. And if you’re a founder, operator, or builder, this article is your early warning: poor process doesn’t announce itself. It accumulates, silently, until your best people are fighting fires they didn’t start.

So, before things break, let’s talk about what makes processes fail, and what it takes to build operational structures that scale with your ambition.

  1. DO NOT Confuse Speed with System: Startups are built on hustle. That’s part of the magic. But hustle without design leads to fragile outcomes. What works when you’re a 5-person team becomes a burden when you’re 50. Manually sorting payments, ad-hoc decisions, Slack approvals; these shortcuts become operational debt.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Build systems early. They don’t have to be perfect, but they must be repeatable. Even lightweight process maps give your team breathing room and build investor confidence.

  1. DO NOT Build Around Individuals: We romanticise “indispensable” team members; the only person who knows how X works. But hero-driven execution is unsustainable. When your process depends on one person being online, awake, or available, you’re not building a company. You’re gambling on burnout.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Document workflows, spread context, and make knowledge transfer part of your onboarding and offboarding. Structure should outlive talent.

  1. DO NOT Mistake Micromanagement for Control: I’ve seen it too often: leaders respond by inserting themselves into every decision when processes start breaking down. It’s understandable, but counterproductive. Micromanagement is not a fix. It’s a symptom.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Create trust frameworks. Use process audits, not pressure. Empower teams with clear guardrails, not constant approvals. The goal of an exemplary process isn’t control – it’s clarity.

  1. DO NOT Design for the Happy Path Only: Most processes look beautiful on paper until real users, real edge cases, and real stress tests come in. If your refund process fails when the volume spikes or your reconciliation breaks on public holidays, that’s not a people problem. It’s a design flaw.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Anticipate failure. Ask “What could go wrong?” Run simulations. Processes must bend without breaking. That’s true resilience.

  1. DO NOT ignore the Role of Culture: Even the best-designed processes die in hostile environments. If your culture rewards shortcuts, ignores documentation, or treats processes as bureaucracy, nothing will stick.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Make ‘process’ a language, not a punishment. Celebrate people who fix broken steps. Tie operational excellence to career growth. Culture is what makes a process sustainable.

  1. DO NOT Launch Processes Without Data Loops: If you’re not tracking turnaround times, errors, or usage, you’re not managing a process; you’re just hoping it works.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Instrument every stage. Set KPIs that matter. Let data flag inefficiencies before customers feel them. A great process isn’t just followed – it’s monitored.

Final Thoughts

The truth is: every fast-growing company outgrows its old ways of doing things. There comes a time when velocity alone can’t carry the vision anymore. That’s inevitable. What isn’t inevitable is being caught off guard when it happens.

If you’re building for scale, process isn’t a bottleneck; it’s your runway. The best systems don’t slow people down; they let good teams move faster, with clarity and confidence.

Don’t wait for failure to expose what structure could have prevented it. Build deliberately. Review often. Automate what you can. And above all, make sure your process is strong enough to carry the weight of your ambition.

Because in the long run, it’s not speed that wins.

It’s the ability to move fast, without breaking yourself.

Tolulope Obianwu is a highly experienced professional in operations and technology strategy and currently is Head, Core Operations at TeamApt Ltd


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