Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

Connect with us

News

FG Begins Implementation of Abuja Technology Park Master Plan

Published

on

Kindly share this post

The Federal government yesterday said it has commenced the implementation of the Master Plan for the establishment of the SHESTCO Science and Technology Park at SHEDA in FCT, Abuja.

The minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Sen. Adeleke Mamora disclosed this while declaring open a 2-Day Stakeholders workshop on the development and management of science and technology park and the integration of Technology Forsight for National development.

He said the Ministry has over the years embarked on national and international workshops and other advocacy programmes to sensitize and create awareness and enlightenment for stakeholders including Universities and Research Institutes across the country on the Nigerian Science and Technology Park initiative.

According to him, Science Parks have many advantages on National economies, especially as they: Stimulate and effectively manage the flow of knowledge and technology amongst universities, R&D institutions, companies and markets; facilitate the creation and growth of innovation-based companies through incubation and spin-off processes;  and provision of other value-added services together with high quality space and facilities.

The minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Monilola Udoh, noted that the Ministry is already partnering with institutions and development partners locally and internationally to assist in the implementation of the SHESTCO Science and Technology Park.

The organizations include; the World Technopolis Association, UNESCO, Science Parks and Government of Poland, China Great wall Industry, United Kingdom Science Park Association (UKSPA) etc.

He listed some of the achievements of the initiative as; the production of feasibility report and business plan by UNESCO and the production of Master Plan for the project which is being implemented, saying that the park, when completed would spur Nigeria into industrialization.

Mamora described as welcome development the collaboration between the Ministry and some Agencies and Universities such as the Project Development Institute (PRODA), University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) which already has a functional Science Park and some State Governments that have indicated interest in establishing their own Science Parks in a manner that will be mutual beneficial.

”The Federal Government has mandated the Ministry to establish, promote and facilitate the establishment of Science and Technology Parks in Nigeria for Nigeria’s sustainable Development.

‘‘On the other hand, Technology Foresight which is also the other area to be discussed at this workshop, provides a frame work to think about the possible future in a structured and constructive way.

Technology Foresight is not about predicting a predetermined future, but about exploring how the future might evolve in different ways, depending on the actions and decisions taken today.

‘‘The Technology Foresight initiative also provides suitable methodologies to promote sustainable and innovative development, fostering economic, environmental and social benefits at national and regional levels.

Its outcomes are policies and programmes that deal with innovation, industrial growth and competitiveness. Nigeria therefore must embrace Technology Foresight for policy and planning and ultimately for the socio-economic development of the country.

‘‘Permit me to say that the involvement of the private sector is necessary in the Science Park project which is based on the triple Hellx Model of the Government, Academia and the Industry.

“Because of dwindling resources, Nigeria, just like other countries is leveraging on the expertise and financial resources of the Private Sector for the implementation of the Science Park and other projects through Public Private Partnership (PPP). The Ministry has several flagship programmes including the Science Park which are earmarked for PPP.’’

He however, re-iterated the resolve of the Federal to promote the evolution of Innovative technologies that would help reduce import dependence, enhance local content and strengthen self-sufficiency in our productive capacities, especially as a nation desirous of creating jobs, reducing poverty and strengthening her economy.

He further charged participants to brainstorm exhaustively and chart the best way for the implementation of the SHESTCO Science and Technology Park Master Plan and of course the of Science Parks in Nigeria, and also how to leverage on Technology Foresight for Planning and Policy formulation as well as Resource Persons.

Earlier in her welcome address, Mrs. Monilola Udoh, the Permanenent Secretary,  said the absence of linkage among the stakeholders have adversely affected the development of indigenous technology transfer and had encouraged undue reliance on foreign technical assistance.

While calling for synergy in fast-tracking the development of the park, the PS said other fast developing Nations such as China, Singapore, Korea, Malaysia etc, realized how the development and effective management of Science Parks could transform underdeveloped country to a developed one and hence, decided to develop Science and Technology Parks with spin-off companies running into hundreds and employing thousands of their citizens,

According to her, the role of the ministry is to provide the general leadership and guidance in the implementation of the project alongside with other relevant agencies in handling policy issues and funding for the project; the Research Institutes are to provide the R&D results for commercialization, while Universities and other tertiary institutions are to provide the skilled man power for the SHESTCO S&T Park.

In his goodwill message, the Director General of SHETSCO, Prof. Peter Onyenekwe said the Silicon Valley project of the ministry recognizes the importance of increasing and strengthening the linkage between Nigeria’s government, knowledge/research centres and industry.

As an institute, he said the complex hopes for the S&T park to create a focal point for the  building critical mass for infrastructure and expertise  that would catalyze and fast-track the commercialization of existing and emerging technologies and research output;  foster a robust system of innovation through effective interaction among government, knowledge centre and industry in a corridor of technology that stretches from SHEDA to all part of the country and apart from the initial take off grant, the project should be self-sustaining.

‘‘The increased interest in the development of science and technology Parks globally is related to the need to foster a viable innovation led sector as well as  the need for a robust research and development base, using indigenous human capital and associated commercialization of technology to accelerate economic development,’’ he said.

 


Kindly share this post

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

News

Abbas Jega, Ex-AMCON ED, Testifies, Says Arik Never Cooperated With AMCON

Published

on

Kindly share this post

A former Executive Director at Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Abbas Muhammed Jega, has shed light on the financial dealings between Arik Air and Union Bank, revealing that the airline’s debt to AMCON was over N100 billion as of 2015 and remained unpaid.

Testifying as the third prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of Ahmed Kuru, former AMCON MD/CEO, and four others, Jega disclosed that AMCON acquired Arik’s loans from Union Bank and Keystone Bank, but not Zenith Bank, which was purchased after his exit.

According to Jega, AMCON discovered in a London meeting that Union Bank had sold them a guarantee rather than a loan, which was meant to cover foreign lenders in case Arik defaulted.

“We invited Arik to resolve the issue with Union Bank, but the arrangement disclosed by me never existed,” Jega said.

Jega attributed Arik’s inability to repay to over-trading, which led to their inability to service existing debts. He revealed that AMCON attempted to restructure Arik’s debt and even offered additional loan facilities to help the airline with working capital problems.

However, Arik failed to meet repayment obligations, prompting AMCON to propose two solutions: a debt equity swap and management control. Both options were rejected or delayed by Arik.

Under cross-examination, Jega confirmed that Kamilu Omokide and Captain Roy Ilegbodu played no role in the loan purchase or London meeting.

The matter has been adjourned to June 30, July 1, and July 2, 2025, for further cross-examination.

The case involves alleged financial misappropriation amounting to N76 billion and $31.5 million, with Ahmed Kuru, Kamilu Omokide, Captain Roy Ilegbodu, Union Bank Ltd, and Super Bravo Ltd as defendants, presided over by Justice Mojisola Dada.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

News

Minister of Information to Chair GOCOP Book Launch in Abuja

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation is to chair the public presentation of the book Nigeria Media Renaissance: GOCOP Perspective on Online Publishing, a publication of Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP). The event is scheduled for 110am on Tuesday June 17, 2025 at the Continental Hotel, Abuja.

President of GOCOP, Maureen Chigbo, who confirmed this development said the book presentation will be graced by eminent personalities from all walks of life, including government officials, captains of industry, media practitioners and other professionals, representatives of international organisations, directors of non-governmental organisations.

Alhaji Idris was sworn in as Minister of Information and National Orientation on August 21, 2023, following his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. With over three decades of experience in broadcasting, newspapering, public relations, and advertising, Idris has brought a wealth of expertise to the role.

His academic background includes degrees in English Studies from Uthman Danfodio University, Sokoto, and Bayero University, Kano. As an entrepreneur, he established notable media outlets such as Blueprint, WE FM radio station, and Rapid Television in Abuja.

He is a prominent figure in professional associations such as National Institute of Public Relations, African Public Relations Association, Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria, and Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria.

As the founder of Bifocal Communications, a leading public relations and communications consultancy, Idris has served both local and transnational corporations.

Beyond his professional endeavours, Idris is committed to social responsibility through the Mohammed Idris Malagi (MIM) Foundation, which has positively impacted many lives. As a reward for his contributions to the development of his immediate environment and beyond, The Etsu Nupe conferred “Kaakaki Nupe” on him.

A press statement by the GOCOP Publicity Secretary, Ogbuefi Remmy Nweke, quoted the GOCOP president as saying that the proceeds of the book will be used to fund the N2.3 billion GOCOP MEDIA CENTRE, a multi-purpose resource centre comprising a secretariat, a 21st Century library and event halls, among others.

Nweke further noted that the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) was established to promote professionalism in online publishing, ensuring its members uphold the fundamental principles of journalism.

Comprising seasoned editors and senior journalists with distinguished career in print and electronic media, GOCOP’s membership has traversed the online publishing, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping the future of journalism globally. With 120 corporate publishers as members, GOCOP continues to uphold the highest standards of online journalism.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

News

ARCON to Crackdown on AI-Generated Fake Ads

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has issued a stern warning to marketers, content creators, and social media influencers amid an alarming rise in fraudulent, AI-generated advertisements circulating across digital platforms.

ARCON to Crackdown on AI-Generated Fake Ads

Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, director-general, ARCON, during a press briefing at its Lagos headquarters, decried the “porous” state of Nigeria’s online ad ecosystem and pledged to prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the law.

Dr. Fadolapo opened the media parley by highlighting how easily unscrupulous operators deploy artificial intelligence tools to produce convincing—but entirely fabricated—advertisements.

“Our social media space has become so porous that people now freely post fake adverts, some of which claim outrageous and bogus benefits,” he remarked.

According to the Director-General, these deceptive campaigns often promise “miraculous cures” or “guaranteed returns” without any credible data or verifiable sources to back them.

Among the most alarming examples cited was an herbal remedy advertisement alleging to cure over 200 ailments—ranging from HIV to cancer—through a single “miracle” concoction.

“Imagine an advert claiming that a single herbal drug could cure HIV, cancer, and more than 200 other diseases,” Dr. Fadolapo said.

ARCON’s DG emphasized that such misleading advertisements not only jeopardize public health—by luring vulnerable individuals into purchasing untested or harmful products—but also undermine consumer confidence in legitimate businesses operating within advertising guidelines.

Dr. Fadolapo pointed to the regulatory vacuum that allows bad actors to exploit the anonymity of social media.

Unlike traditional broadcast or print media—where advertisements must pass through editorial or legal vetting—online platforms can be manipulated with minimal oversight.

Creating an ad using AI-powered design and voice generators, he warned, takes only minutes, making it difficult for regulators to identify the original perpetrators.

“The CBEX case is a painful reminder of what can happen when digital platforms are left unchecked,” Dr. Fadolapo said, explaining that the scheme purportedly defrauded unsuspecting Nigerians of nearly $2 trillion through slick, unregulated social media promotions.

He described how the CBEX promoters used AI-generated video testimonials, falsified financial statements, and cloned websites to entice victims with promises of triple-digit returns on cryptocurrency trades.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Trending