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NCC Harps on Need for Fair, Responsible AI @ World Consumer Rights Day

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As Nigeria marks World Consumer Rights Day, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has highlighted the importance of a fair and ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI) devoid of bias and privacy issues.

Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman, NCC, stated this at an occasion to commemorate the day at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Friday,

Represented by Engr Abraham Ogbadami, Executive Commissioner (designate) Technical Services, Maida highlighted the significant impact of AI on human lives and stressed the critical need to use it responsibly to uphold consumer trust and prevent potential issues

The NCC boss explained that responsible AI means using it in an ethical way throughout its development, deployment, and usage, including considering issues like bias, privacy, transparency, and accountability.

He said: “According to reports, responsible AI aims to empower consumers, build trust, and minimize negative effects.

“To this effect AI Developers need to be transparent about the data, algorithms, and models used in AI systems. This ensures that decisions made by AI can be explained and mistakes can be fixed to ensure everyone is treated fairly, regardless of their background. This helps prevent biased decisions or discrimination thereby promoting inclusivity and equality.

“Protecting citizens’ privacy is extremely important when using AI. Organizations should handle personal data responsibly, following strict privacy regulations. Respecting privacy builds trust in AI systems.

“Responsible AI requires mechanisms for holding systems accountable and explaining their decisions. Consumers should understand how AI systems work and have a way to address issues or biases.

The EVC noted that developing regulations and policies to govern AI deployment can be complex and as well as playing catch up due to technological advancements.

He said, although most Legislative and governing bodies are looking to regulate AI technology, there has been a continuous struggle to strike the right balance between risk mitigation and stifling innovation, while promoting innovation and ensuring security and trust.

“The Commission in pursuit to join the global community to advance digital services and enhance quality communications infrastructure for the benefit of the citizenry conducted a globally acclaimed most transparent auction for 5G services in Nigeria firstly on December 13th 2021 and secondly on December 5th 2022.

“The first auction saw the emergence of MTN and MAFAB as the successful bidders while Airtel Networks Nigeria emerged as the sole bidder at the second auction.

“Since the emergence of these operators as providers of 5G services in Nigeria, there has been a steady growth in the development and deployment of AI systems and services and the Commission has been constantly ensuring that the growth is the right direction that guarantees value addition to Consumer satisfaction and experience as well as ensuring economic growth. Regulatory Challenges”

“In this era that has seen the rise of AI and IoT cybersecurity, it is important to break silos and foster collaboration of the Quadruple Helix Innovation model consisting of the Academia, the Industry, Government and Society to share ideas. AI developers and Regulators have to ensure AI system algorithms consider ethics and inclusivity.” Maida stated.


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Substandard CNG Cylinder is Recipe for Disaster- SON

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Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has warned the public against the use of substandard and uncertified Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) cylinders.

 

The warning is coming in the wake of the unfortunate recent incident of CNG cylinder explosion at the NIPCO CNG Refueling Station in Benin City, Edo State.

In a statement, the organisation said it has put robust and effective regulatory measures in place to ensure that all CNG equipment and conversion kits conform to approved standards before being certified for public use.

“The conformity assessment schemes are designed to prevent the import, manufacturing, and use of substandard products,” it stated.

In addition, SON said it is collaborating with the Presidential Initiatives on CNG and other relevant government bodies to finalise the Nigerian Gas Vehicle Monitoring System (NGVMS) – a platform that will provide centralized monitoring and surveillance of CNG systems to ensure that only vehicles equipped with certified conversion kits can access gas at retail outlets.

“The NGVMS will also offer a database of approved CNG equipment and suppliers which will go a long way in preventing the substandard installations and further mitigating the associated risks.”

 

 

 


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Access Bank Wins Best Digital, Best Website at 2024 Digital Jurist Awards

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Access Bank PLC has been named the 2024 Best Digital Award Winner in the Commercial Banks Category at the Digital Jurist Awards, organized by Phillips Consulting (pcl.).

In addition to this top honour, the Bank also secured the Best Website Award, achieving an impressive score of 201 points for its engaging and user-friendly digital experience. Access Bank’s cumulative score of 380 points reflects its excellence across digital touchpoints, including its website, web portal, mobile app, and social media.

Commenting on the recognition, Amaechi Okobi, Chief Communications Officer of Access Holdings PLC, said, “We are honoured to receive the Best Digital and Best Website Awards at this year’s Digital Jurist Awards. At Access, our focus on digital innovation is driven by our commitment to deliver seamless, secure, and customer-centric solutions across all touchpoints.

This recognition validates our ongoing efforts to enhance our digital platforms, making financial services more accessible and efficient for our customers. We thank Phillips Consulting for recognising our efforts and will continue to raise the bar in digital excellence.”

Phillips Consulting has long served as a development partner to Nigerian financial institutions and other organisations with an online presence. Leveraging its proprietary Digital Jurist platform, the firm has conducted assessments of digital touchpoints in various sectors, from financial services and insurance to telecommunications and government agencies, over the past 17 years.

Originally established as Web Jurist®, the platform was reimagined as Digital Jurist to assess new and diversified digital channels in the evolving digital economy. Digital Jurist’s evaluation framework examines a range of factors, including user experience, accessibility, performance, functionality, security, customer service, support, marketing, and content engagement across digital platforms.

These awards reinforce Access Bank’s leadership in digital banking, adding to recent accolades including 2024 Best Digital Bank and Best Mobile Banking App by World Finance, Best Mobile Banking App and Best Digital Bank by The Digital Banker Awards, and Best Digital Banking Initiative at the Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards 2024.

 


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iPower Revolutionizes Home Power Solutions with All-In-One Inverter

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iPower, a leader in alternative energy innovation, has unveiled its latest product—the iPower All-In-One (AIO) Inverter.

This cutting-edge inverter is set to transform energy management and accessibility with a complete, easy-to-install solution designed to meet modern power needs.

Now available on Konga at an unbeatable price, the iPower All-In-One Inverter combines convenience, efficiency, and flexibility, making it the ideal choice for homes, offices, and small businesses across Nigeria.

The iPower AIO inverter is designed as a plug-and-play energy solution, removing the need for complex wiring. Simply plug in your devices, and it’s ready for immediate use.

Its key feature—a robust, built-in lithium-ion battery—ensures reliable, long-lasting power storage. With its dual charging capability, the inverter supports both solar and electricity inputs, giving users the flexibility to stay powered in all conditions.

The product uses a powerful 2.5KW off-grid inverter paired with a 1.536KWh lithium-ion battery module. This plug-and-play design not only simplifies installation but also allows users to increase energy storage capacity as needed.

The compact design of the iPower All-In-One Inverter maximizes space savings, while its Smart Battery Management System (BMS) ensures safe and efficient battery performance.

Additionally, a built-in Wi-Fi module allows users to monitor system performance remotely, providing real-time updates on energy usage and battery status.

iPower AIO is built for optimal performance, featuring a Pure Sine Wave Output that provides smooth, reliable power, ideal for sensitive electronics. This design ensures stable electricity flow, protecting devices from sudden power fluctuations.

Additionally, the inverter includes a USB On-the-Go Function that enables direct device connectivity, adding convenience for users needing quick and reliable power access.

Offering flexibility in charging options, the inverter is compatible with both utility mains and generator inputs. It is also equipped with an anti-dust kit that shields internal components, enhancing durability and reliability over time. With advanced configuration settings, users can prioritize power sources and set AC/PV output usage timers.

The iPower All-In-One Inverter stands out with its user-centric design, built for durability, flexibility, and convenience. With safety and reliability at its core, the inverter ensures a continuous energy supply for diverse applications.

As with all iPower products, the All-In-One Inverter is designed to deliver maximally. For instance, the iPower Power 5kVA Inverter is a trusted choice for larger power needs, delivering consistent energy for high-consumption applications.

Additionally, the iPower 200Ah Inverter Battery provides extended backup power that complements iPower’s inverters, ensuring long-lasting performance during prolonged outages.

The iPower All-In-One Inverter is now available on Konga at the best price, offering exceptional value for a complete, ready-to-use energy storage solution. Embrace the future of energy with iPower and enjoy seamless power at your fingertips.


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