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NITDA Trains 335 Lagos Kids in Emerging Technologies
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has empowered 335 kids in Lagos with skill in emerging technologies such as Robotics, Artificial intelligence, Coding, virtual Reality among other at the STEM Bootcamp for Kids (SB4KIDS).
Mallam Kashifu Inuwa, the Director General, NITDA in his goodwill message said that SB4KIDS is aimed at bridging the gap that currently exists in the educational sector.
He said that this Stem Bootcamp for Kids triggers NITDA’s interest and resonates deeply with the ongoing efforts toward implementing the National Digital economy policy for digital Nigeria.
Inuwa who was represented by Mrs Jumoke Alaka, Manager, South West Zonal office, NITDA, said that NITDA mandate is to create a framework for the planning, research, development, and standardization application, coordination, monitoring, evaluation and regulation of Information Technology practices in Nigeria.
According to him, “NITDA remains committed to supporting campaigns to diversify the country’s economy from a resource-based to a knowledge-based one through Information Technology (IT).
“We are indeed proud to be part of this event. It is my pleasure to introduce to you National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), the arm of NITDA meant to drive R&D and innovation in the areas of emerging technologies.
“NCAIR is one of NITDA’s special purpose vehicles created to promote research and development on emerging technologies and their practical application in areas of Nigeria’s national interest,’’ he said.
He added that kids across spectrums of the society were trained on Coding, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Drone.As well as Digital Communications, Embedded Systems, the Internet of Things (IoT), Virtual Reality, and 3D requisite skill-set for the 4th Industrial Revolution.
The DG said that as an NCAIR’s catch-them-young initiative, the SB4KIDS is a Bootcamp to inspire young Nigerians in STEM.
He said that through the SB4Kids, NCAIR engages youngsters between the age of 8 and 16 years in an immersive and well-articulated Bootcamp.
According to him, “the bootcamp is meant to coach and inspire youngsters to imbibe STEM passion and create an early interest in digital and emerging technologies, that would hopefully shape the children future careers in these fields”.
He said that, NITDA SB4Kids is a yearly initiative conducted during the summer school holidays. And has trained over 200 participants which will broaden the minds of children in critical thinking and high sense of curiosity in science and digital technology.
He said that the early involvement of in technology and innovation would accelerate the development of the IT sector and create future leaders who will transform the Nigerian technology space and boost Nigerian Digital Economy.
Mr Mayowa Ajiboye, Partner, TEF Community Innovation Hub appreciated NITDA for bringing the training to Alimosho Local Government Area , a suburb of Lagos state where there are kids underserved in technology.
“NITDA through its subsidiary NCAIR thought it wise that during summer holidays children should kept busy by teaching them current technologies that are relevant in the 4th industrial revolution and the idea is to bring children together to teach them Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
“Locating this programme in Alimosho was significant in reaching children of less privilege in the society.
“The number that was totally trained were 335 children which was more than the number that was planned for. When we saw the number we decided not to drive them but to manage to accommodate every kid that shown interest.
“Because of the huge impact we saw that we extended the programme by one week to complement effort of the government. In spite of the fact that schools in Lagos State have resumed kids still continued to attend the training which shows that the programme has made its objective,” Ajibola said.
A total of 6 Laptops were given out. 3 laptops for the first 3 junior category and 3 for the first 3 senior category. All of them were also giving Arduino tool kits.
Zinox Technologies Limited, a leading ICT solutions provider in West Africa, has engaged with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) in Abuja, marking a significant step towards advancing innovation and sustainable energy solutions within Nigeria’s tertiary education landscape.
Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh, Zinox Chairman (left) and Arc. Sonny Echono, Executive Secretary, TETFUND (right) after the meeting
Under the theme “Advancing Innovation for a Sustainable Future,” the meeting aimed to establish a collaborative framework for technological transformation.
The Zinox delegation was led by Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh, its chairman, and included key members of the company’s executive management team.
On the TETFUND side, Arc. Sonny Echono, executive secretary, was joined by members of his top management team for the high-level discussions.
The highlight of the visit was the establishment of a strategic partnership between Zinox Technologies and TETFUND to provide renewable energy solutions to universities and polytechnics across Nigeria.
Additionally, Mrs. Kelechi Eze-Okonta, managing director, delivered a comprehensive, world-class presentation on the company’s diverse verticals and advanced ICT services, underscoring the need for intentional policy measures to support indigenous technologies for sustainable economic growth.
The TETFUND team expressed their appreciation for Zinox’s contributions to technology awareness, implementation, and adoption in Africa.
Arc. Sonny Echono, executive secretary of TETFUND, conveyed his deep appreciation for the visit by the Zinox team and commended Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh for his unwavering and impactful contributions to Nigeria’s digital transformation, stating that efforts are underway to establish a framework for effective energy solutions in tertiary institutions.
Highlighting Zinox Technologies’ expertise and proven track record, Arc. Echono expressed optimism about partnering with the company to develop scalable and efficient power solutions for academic institutions.
While both organizations remain committed to implementing innovative initiatives that enhance institutional capacity across the nation’s higher education sector, the visit marks a significant milestone in establishing a strategic partnership to equip Nigeria’s tertiary institutions with the essential technological infrastructure for a sustainable, digitally-driven future.
In a heartfelt tribute, MTN has hailed late Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, an exceptional leader, steady hand and enduring legacy.
Pascal Gabriel Dozie, Former Chairman
In the tribute, MTN said it was deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Dozie, founding chairman of MTN Nigeria.
He passed away at the age of 85
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him” the telecom giant said.
A pioneer, statesman, and titan of industry, Dr. Dozie played a pivotal role in the emergence of mobile telephony in Nigeria and in shaping the MTN Nigeria story.
He brought insight, experience, and leadership at a time when bold vision was essential.
He was instrumental in securing the early support and investment that brought the Y’ello dream to life. On May 16, 2001, he made the first call on the MTN network, a historic moment in Nigeria’s telecommunications journey.
For 18 years, from 2001 to 2019, Dr. Dozie served as Chairman, leading with strength and conviction.
His presence on the Board was unifying. He championed good governance, corporate responsibility, and long-term value, deeply committed to the greater good. In challenging times, he remained a stabilising force.
“His unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential and his dedication to its development were truly inspiring. His leadership at MTN Nigeria laid the foundation for our success, and his legacy will continue to guide us in the years to come,” Karl Toriola, CEO, MTN Nigeria.
Some of his landmark contributions include:
The incorporation of the MTN Nigeria Foundation in 2004 and our commitment to dedicating a percentage of profit after tax to social investments;
The launch of one of Africa’s largest switching centres in 2010;
His significant role in 2015 during critical conversations around the regulatory fine and its resolution;
The introduction of Africa’s first 3G feature phone in 2018;
MTN Nigeria’s listing in 2019 on the premium board of the Nigerian Exchange.
“Dr. Dozie was instrumental in MTN Group’s expansion into Nigeria, providing visionary leadership that has left an indelible mark on our company’s history. His commitment to excellence and integrity set a standard that we continue to uphold,” Ralph Mupita, president & CEO, MTN Group.
His legacy goes well beyond MTN. He believed in Nigeria’s potential and dedicated his life to building a stronger nation.
His impact spanned banking, telecommunications, education, and public service.
He founded Diamond Bank, led the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, and served as Director of the Central Bank of Nigeria, among many other distinguished roles. A generous mentor, he inspired and guided countless individuals who continue to uphold the values he lived by.
He was a quiet revolutionary. He could ease tensions with grace and consistently led with clarity and conviction.
He was warm, principled, and deeply respected by all who encountered him.
Fondly known as PGD, he was honoured with the national awards of Officer and Commander of the Order of the Niger (OON and CON).
Beyond the accolades, what we remember most is the man himself. He was innovative, dedicated, measured, thoughtful and humble.
“We are profoundly grateful for his time with us. His memory will remain a guiding light for MTN, Nigeria’s business community, and everyone who shares his unwavering commitment to progress built on integrity and service” MTN stated
Nigerian Communication Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) in collaboration with Jigawa state government, commenced training of 150 youths on satellite technology and digital communication.
Jane Egerton-Idehen, managing director, NIGCOMSAT limited,
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the training, held at Manpower development Dutse, Jane Egerton-Idehen, managing director, NIGCOMSAT limited, highlighted the role of NIGCOMSAT in driving grassroots innovation in Jigawa state.
She explained that, the training is organised by Nigcomsat supported by Jigawa state government with the theme: “Space Technology for grassroots development”, aimed at empowering youths on digital innovations to create jobs opportunities and boost economy.
“The Nigcomsat youth empowerment programme, Jigawa is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at equipping young minds with cutting-edge knowledge in satellite technology and digital communication”, she said.
The MD maintained that, the program designed to Foster innovation, enhance technical skills and create opportunities for youths in the ever-evolving space-tech industry.
According to her, during the training two key sub-program will be featured, Spacehack 2025 aimed at developing satellite technology to tackle real world challenges in areas like agriculture, disaster management, telecommunications and security issues.
She maintained that, the other part of the training focused on Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) technology, a satellite communication system that uses small antennas to transmit and receive data, voice, and vedio signals.
In his remarks, Dr Habib Muhammad Ubale, director general, Jigawa State Economic Empowerment and Youth employment agency, urged the participants to concentrate, acquire the skills and stepdown the skills to others for better development.
Dr. Habib who is the effort is one of the twelve points agenda of Governor Malam Umar Namadi said, the training will create thousands of jobs, improve economy and reduce security challenges in the state.
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