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Alleged NIMC Data Breach Under Probe – Minister Assures

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Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, announced that the federal government is conducting a thorough investigation into alleged breaches in the national data system.

In a statement posted on his X handle, Tijani mentioned that the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC) are leading the investigation.

This response follows a report by Paradigm Initiative claiming that national identification numbers (NINs), bank verification numbers (BVNs), and other personal data of Nigerians were being sold on unauthorized websites for as low as N100.

On June 22, NIMC denied any partnerships with websites such as Idfinder.com.ng, Verify.ng, Championtech.com.ng, Trustyonline.com, and Anyverify.com, and advised Nigerians against using these sites.

In a separate interview, Gbenga Sesan, Executive Director of Paradigm Initiative, revealed that his organization was able to purchase Tijani’s NIN slip for just N100.

While Tijani did not confirm or deny the data breaches in his post, he assured that the agencies “are on top of the matter.”

He said in a statement; “On NIN slips being purchased for N100 First, I have engaged my colleague, the Minister of Interior, who supervises the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and I am aware that his ministry and the agency are on top of the matter.

“Second, the @ndpcngr, a year-old agency under my supervision as minister, has over the last few months created data compliance mechanisms for all MDAs and has since started a thorough investigation as to the circumstances surrounding this alleged breach.

“Having established that, I do believe that it is important to share the proactive steps I have taken upon appointment to help strengthen technology application in government, despite the historical siloed approach to procurement and development.

“For context, in October 2023, a few weeks after my appointment, I released a whitepaper (which you can find here – https://b.link/NigeriaDPI), elucidating my position on technology application within the public service and our proposed approach to leveraging existing investment in technology to accelerate economic prosperity through improved government processes.

“While some may not have recognised the relevance of that publication, it has shaped our approach and activities towards strengthening the use of technology in government while protecting the nation and our citizens.

“The very last paragraph of the whitepaper speaks clearly to how our approach will address and mitigate against issues around data breach and make our systems secure. Since the release of that document, we have initiated the following:

⁃ Presentation to kick off an alignment with all permanent secretaries highlighting the importance of a structured Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) approach and the need for Data Exchange across MDAs to strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity oversight for critical DPI

⁃ A 2-day workshop with Directors of ICT across all MDAs to enlighten and initiate a plan to strengthen DPI in Nigeria ⁃ Launched the #DevsInGovernment – a community of practice for all civil servants responsible for technology within the government which serves as a platform for enlightening and securing buy-in across the ICT cadre.

⁃ Launched the Responsible Data Management Course for Civil Servants (a partnership between the NDPC & Datadotorg) to improve on data handling and protection across government institutions.

⁃ Workshop with the Centre for Digital Public Infrastructure, to assess the status quo and agree on an implementation roadmap for DPI in Nigeria.

⁃ Conducted deep dives and knowledge exchange workshops on DPI and data exchange with Finland & Estonia as part of the design process for our Data Exchange System.

“Finally, we have submitted a request for a Presidential declaration to enable us to align all MDAs behind our goal to implement a data exchange system in Nigeria.

“We anticipate that by the end of the year, the initial pilot of the system should be in place and cover a minimum of 5 MDAs with oversight for supporting Nigerians through critical “life events” I share this update to encourage Civil Society Organisations and those interested, to read the Whitepaper and engage with us as we strengthen our DPI.”


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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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Galaxy Backbone Bags Multiple ISO Certifications, Commits to Empowering Businesses to Thrive in the Digital Era

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Nigeria’s digital infrastructure solutions and services organization, Galaxy Backbone (GBB) has recently attained the global MSECB certifications in Management systems; the ISO 9001: 2015 standard – Quality Management Systems (QMS) and the ISO 22301:2019 standard – Business Continuity Management Systems (BCMS).

These certifications re-affirm the organization’s commitment to delivering exceptional and excellent services that enhance the sustainability and reliability of solutions provided to organizations by GBB.

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, organizations need trusted partners driven by its commitment to provide world class services, like GBB to navigate the complexities of modern times.

With these latest certifications, GBB has further positioned itself as a reputable organization, that public and private sector organizations can rely on in their digital transformation and business sustainability journey.

According to, Professor Ibrahim A. Adeyanju, GBB’s Managing Director/CEO ‘these certifications re-affirm the commitment we have consistently made to our customers.

In his words; ‘we are excited about these certifications, we have earned, coming at a time when customers, stakeholders and the government are searching for organizations like ours to rebuild the confidence in the system. I am proud of everyone at GBB who worked hard to ensure we attained this height and who continuously work tirelessly to provide excellent services daily’.

The ISO 9001:2015 certification, highlights Galaxy Backbone’s dedication to providing high-quality services that consistently meet and exceed customer expectations. It also underscores the organization’s commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction across all aspects of its operations.

On the other hand, the ISO 22301:2019 certification showcases GBB as that organisation committed to institutionalizing business continuity management system processes to enhance business sustainability and resilience.

This certification demonstrates GBB’s commitment to maintaining uninterrupted business operations, even during unexpected disruptions like natural disasters, cyber-attacks, or other emergencies.

Galaxy Backbone is the digital Infrastructure platform at the forefront of providing cutting-edge Cloud, Colocation, Connectivity and Cybersecurity solutions and services to organisations. The company is dedicated to fostering reliable partnerships with key stakeholders and service providers in expanding fibre connectivity across cities and local communities.


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Twisco Awards N1m to Winners of Spelling Geniuses Competition

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Twisco, known for “nourishing big dreams”, has successfully sponsored the third edition of the Spelling Genius competition.

L-r: Eminence Chika Onwuatuogu, a judge; Aderibigbe Emmanuel, Spelling Genius Champion; Emeka Onyejiaka, and Catherine Onyejiaka, both judges, at the presentation of mock cheque and trophy to the Spelling Genius competition winner.

The competition held recently at the SUBEB Multipurpose Hall, Maryland, Lagos, brought together over 1500 students and instructors from primary and secondary schools (state and private).

The contestants vied to showcase their spelling skills at the competition aimed to enhance vocabulary and spelling skills for successful learning.

Twisco awarded a total of ₦750,000 in prizes to the top three winners: ₦150,000 for the third place winner, ₦250,000 for the second place winner, and a grand prize of ₦350,000 for the first place winner.

Speaking to journalists at the event, Lillian Omorenuwa, the Brand Manager, Beverage Category at Promasidor Nigeria, said they are not only helping the children develop spelling skills and reading comprehension, but also bolstering their confidence and communication skills as well.

“At the heart of Twisco is empowering young minds; one word at a time. Yes. We have been doing this because the children are dear to us and we stand for their well-being”, Lillian added.


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MTN Foundation’s Odunayo Sanya Urges Private Sector to Join Forces for Better Healthcare in Nigeria

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Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director of MTN Foundation, has urged stakeholders in the healthcare industry to come together to address the skills gap and improve healthcare outcomes in Nigeria. Speaking at the CLI College graduation ceremony on May 25th, 2024, where she delivered the keynote speech, Sanya emphasised the need for collective action to bridge the skills gap in the healthcare industry.

“The private sector, including individuals and institutions, must collaborate to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We need to create an environment that fosters innovation, skills development and access to quality healthcare,” Sanya said.

She commended CLI College for its commitment to equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge, saying, “I applaud CLI College for its dedication to addressing the critical need for qualified healthcare professionals in Nigeria. We need more institutions like this to accelerate progress in our healthcare sector.”

Sanya also highlighted the importance of strong institutions and policy consistency in driving economic development, saying, “Clear policies and good institution building are essential for growth and progress. We need to replicate this success in other sectors, including healthcare.”

Other stakeholders at the event also emphasised the need for collaboration and collective action to improve healthcare outcomes in Nigeria.

CLI Founder, Angela Chizea, Head of Health School, CLI College acknowledged the graduates’ dedication and emphasised the importance of education in shaping their futures. She also expressed gratitude to the college staff and supportive families who played a role in the graduates’ journeys.

“We acknowledge the critical role played by our college staff, whose tireless efforts and unwavering support have helped shape your journey. And to the families and loved ones who have supported our graduates every step of the way, we extend our heartfelt gratitude.” Mrs. Angela said.

MTN Foundation has invested in several critical intervention areas in Nigeria over the past 19 years, including national priorities like women empowerment, education and healthcare.

CLI College is a leading private career college in Nigeria offering diploma and certificate programs designed to prepare students for success in healthcare, business, technology and creative. Their focus on practical skills and flexible learning options empowers individuals to launch new careers or advance in their current fields.

 


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