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Zarttech Reaffirms commitment to Foster Digital Skills Among Nigerian Youths

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Group picture of participants at the Zarttalent Summit held on Thursday in Lagos.
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As part of its goal of promoting digital literacy in Nigeria, Zarttech has held its yearly Zarttalent Summit aimed at empowering young people to take up and explore opportunities inherent in the Technology sector.

Group picture of participants at the Zarttalent Summit held on Thursday in Lagos.

This year’s summit themed: “How To Win With Tech” was held at the firm’s brand-new state of the art office located at Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos.

Mr. Nelson Ajulo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Zarttech, speaking at the event said that the aim of the summit is to help young Nigerians acquire digital skills needed to become self-reliant as well as give them the opportunity to compete favourably with their contemporaries in the global tech ecosystem.

According to him, the summit is part of Zarttech’s ongoing commitment to driving social impact and fostering innovation among Nigerian youth, with the purpose to catch them young.

He said that the programme in its fifth year is to create awareness on the future of labour force in Nigeria and globally.

“And part of the biggest problem that I have seen within the Nigerian economy, also for my PhD research is that these children or the average Nigerian, does not even know what they need to study.

“They don’t know what the economy or what the employer wants, or what the job market needs in the labour market, so they go to school to study without even knowing the end result.

“Which would be that they are able to obtain a certificate that actually says that they are an amazing employee to be hired.”

According to him, when they go and invest the time, invest the resources of their parent on an unintentional intent, and then they also learn something that was not It’s not of great value, then it is redundant, like wasted time and wasted resources.

He noted that it’s really crucial that children and youths are aware of this understanding and that the Summit has created that awareness.

During a panel session titled: “Navigating Tech Career from the Inside” experts majorly from Zarttech team stressed the need for young Nigerians, particularly secondary school students to take up digital skills irrespective of what they aim to study in school.

Oreoluwa Adesanya, Zarttalent Data Analyst Tutor, encouraged students particularly those at the summit to embrace tech as a career. She narrated how she transitioned from studying medical laboratory science in school to becoming a data analyst.

Also, Babatunde Shodeinde, Head of Design at Zarttech, who also transitioned to tech sector after graduating in a different background in school charged the students to start now, adding that their young age is a huge advantage for them to achieved whatever they set their minds to in the ecosystem.

According to him, “you are still very young and there’s no limit to what you can achieve. If there’s better time to start, it’s now. Trust me I know people younger than you people here, I know seven-year old’s learning programming, learning design, learning data and so on. The age in which you’re in right now there’s just so much information out there, so much resources for you to experiment with.”

Speaking at the summit, Mrs Sonia Fajusigbe, Policy Advisor Entrepreneurship Youth Employment and Healthcare Consulate General of the Netherlands in Lagos encouraged youths on the effective and efficient use of technology to their advantage.

Fajusigbe said that there are so many opportunities in the technology ecosystem for the youths to harness as entrepreneurs and innovators.

According to her, our climate in Nigeria is very interesting and with limited opportunities but one can make the best opportunity out of it.

“Data is gold, you have phones, install Britannica it is for student in high school and elementary schools basically for research, it will help you.

“If you do that, you will not go out of scope and remain within the scope, and I would like everyone to take this with them.

“It says self-discipline is what separates winners and the losers, when you are not disciplined, you are just among the crowd.

“It is when you are self-disciplined, you have a goal in front of you and focus on it.”

Fajusigbe said that youths should try as much as possible to ensure consistency in that discipline and when consistency is mixed with discipline one would achieve a whole lot.


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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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AfCFTA Credit Fund Makes First Investment With $10m Loan

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The Credit Fund of the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund has successfully closed its first investment, committing $10 million to Telecel Global Services Ltd, through a senior secured amortising loan.

The transaction marks a significant milestone in the operationalisation of the Fund. The Credit Fund is one of three Funds under the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund, established by the AfCFTA Secretariat and African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to provide targeted transitional support to AfCFTA State Parties and private sector entities as they adjust to the requirements and opportunities presented by the AfCFTA Agreement.

Telecel Global Services, a subsidiary of the Mauritius based Telecel Group, provides wholesale voice and SMS services and enterprise connectivity solutions to more than 250 telecoms operators across Africa and globally.

With digital connectivity being at the heart of the trade and economic integration and success of the AfCFTA, this facility will support Telecel’s expansion in Ghana and Liberia, strengthen its infrastructure, and contribute to bridging Africa’s digital divide through enhanced connectivity and digital inclusion.

By investing in digital infrastructure in underserved markets, the Fund is helping reduce trade barriers, foster cross-boarder productivity and accelerate inclusive industrialization. Mr. Jean-Louis Ekra, Chairman of the Board of the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund Corporation, stated: “

The closing of our first deal marks a historic milestone for the Credit Fund and the broader vision of the AfCFTA.

This US$10 million investment in Telecel Global Services is a clear demonstration of how targeted capital can drive meaningful impact—accelerating digital connectivity, enabling intraAfrican trade, and supporting private sector-led development in priority sectors.

It is our commitment to ensure that such investments continue to bridge critical gaps, stimulate economic resilience, and unlock Africa’s vast potential.”

H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, noted: “This transaction demonstrates how the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund is beginning to serve its intended purpose – supporting State Parties and the private sector as we work to make this Agreement commercially meaningful.

By investing in digital infrastructure, we are addressing some of the most critical enablers of trade facilitation, industrialisation, and regional value chain development.”

Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, added: “Today, we make another bold statement of our unwavering intent to ensure that Africans reap the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.

We are proud to have commenced the operationalisation of the Credit Fund. With this Fund, we will provide vital support to African corporates, helping them retool and expand their operations necessary to capitalise on the AfCFTA opportunities.

The investment strengthens a critical enabler, the digital economy and regional connectivity, while reinforcing our long-term commitment to transforming the structure of the African economy.”

Marlene Ngoyi, CEO, FEDA, the Fund Manager of the AfCFTA Adjustment Fund, said: “This investment exemplifies the strategic intent of the Credit Fund – to catalyse growth and resilience in sectors that are vital for Africa’s structural transformation.

We are proud to partner with Telecel, whose operations directly advance intra-African connectivity and digital trade.”

The Credit Fund will continue to prioritise commercially viable investments that enable trade, support diversification, and promote inclusive growth in line with the broader AfCFTA implementation agenda.


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Can Urban Farming Contribute Meaningfully to Nigeria’s Food Security?

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By Diana Tenebe, Chief Operating Officer, Foodstuff Store

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, faces a complex web of food security challenges. Soaring food inflation, exacerbated by climate extremes, persistent insecurity in food-producing regions, and an inadequate supply of nutritious foods, has pushed millions into acute hunger. Despite vast agricultural resources, the country ranks low on the Global Food Security Index, underscoring a critical need for innovative solutions. Amidst this backdrop, urban farming, often dismissed as a niche activity, is gaining traction as a strategy to enhance food security, create income opportunities, and promote sustainable practices in urban areas.

Urban farming, encompassing a range of practices from rooftop gardens and vertical farms to community plots and aquaculture, offers the potential to localise food production, reduce reliance on distant supply chains, and enhance access to fresh, nutritious produce. As Nigerian cities continue to urbanise, converting agricultural land to other uses, the importance of maximizing food production within urban limits becomes crucial.

One of the most immediate and impactful contributions of urban farming is its ability to enhance food availability and access. By cultivating crops within city limits, fresh produce can reach consumers more quickly, drastically reducing post-harvest losses and transportation costs. This localised production directly addresses issues of food scarcity, especially for vulnerable urban populations who often struggle with the high cost and limited availability of fresh food. Successful initiatives in Lagos for instance have demonstrated how urban farms can become reliable sources of fruits, vegetables, and even protein through urban livestock and aquaculture for surrounding communities.

Beyond mere availability, urban farming plays a crucial role in improving nutritional outcomes and dietary diversity. Access to fresh, diverse produce encourages healthier eating habits, helping to combat prevalent issues like protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. When families cultivate their own food, they gain greater control over its quality and freshness, often opting for more nutritious varieties. This direct link between cultivation and consumption can lead to a measurable increase in dietary diversity within urban households.

Urban farming is not just about subsistence; it holds substantial economic promise and fosters job creation. It directly generates employment opportunities in various stages, including planting, harvesting, processing, and distribution. Small-scale urban farmers can sell their surplus produce at local markets, generating income and fostering entrepreneurship. This can be particularly impactful for Nigeria’s large youth population, offering a viable path to employment and self-reliance in a landscape of high unemployment. Initiatives that provide training and access to markets, like “FarmInTheCity” in Lagos, exemplify how urban farming can blossom into full-scale enterprises.

Urban farming contributes significantly to environmental sustainability and climate resilience. Innovative urban farming techniques, such as hydroponics and vertical farming, are inherently resource-efficient, using less land and water compared to traditional agriculture. They also reduce “food miles,” significantly lowering carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation. Additionally, urban green spaces created by farming initiatives can help mitigate the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and enhance urban biodiversity. This makes urban farming a crucial component of climate adaptation strategies, helping cities become more resilient to the impacts of climate change, such as erratic rainfall patterns and prolonged droughts that affect traditional agriculture.

Finally, community gardens and collaborative urban farming projects serve as powerful tools for fostering community cohesion and social impact. They provide shared spaces where residents can connect, build knowledge, and foster a sense of community pride and ownership. These initiatives can also serve as educational platforms, promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about local food systems. This collaborative spirit can be particularly beneficial in diverse urban settings, breaking down social barriers and strengthening community bonds.

For Urban farming to work in Nigeria, policy support and integration are crucial. Governments at all levels need to recognize urban farming as a legitimate and vital part of the food system. This involves developing supportive policies, streamlining land-use regulations, and integrating urban agriculture into city planning. Second, capacity building and education are essential. Investing in education and training programs is vital. Access to finance and technology is a significant factor for urban farmers. Innovative financing models, perhaps incorporating “pay-as-you-grow” schemes for technology adoption, are needed. Also, leveraging technology like mobile apps for market access can significantly boost productivity. Lastly, adequate infrastructure, including reliable energy sources and efficient storage facilities, is crucial to minimize post-harvest losses and ensure the economic viability of urban farms.

Urban farming in Nigeria is more than just a passing trend; it can represent a tangible and impactful pathway towards enhanced food security. By embracing innovative approaches, fostering supportive policies, and empowering urban communities with the necessary resources and knowledge, Nigeria can unlock the immense potential of its cities to feed their populations, create economic opportunities, and build a more resilient and sustainable future. The revolution of urban farming, if nurtured effectively, can indeed contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s quest for food security.


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Senate Orders Full Probe into N1.3 Trillion CBEX Ponzi Scandal

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The Senate Wednesday launched a full-scale investigation into the operations of Ponzi schemes in the country. The development followed the catastrophic collapse of the Crypto Bullion Exchange (CBEX), a digital investment platform that allegedly defrauded Nigerians of over N1.3 trillion ($847 million), making it one of the most devastating financial scams in the nation’s history.

The motion, sponsored by Senators Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru (Lagos East) and Osita Izunaso (Imo West), received overwhelming support from lawmakers during the debate at plenary.

The federal lawmakers unanimously described the proliferation of such schemes as a direct threat to national security, economic stability and public trust in government institutions.

Rising in support of the motion, senators from across the country decried the systemic regulatory failure that allowed CBEX and similar fraudulent platforms to operate unchecked.

They lamented that the fraudulent operators leveraged on technology, social media influence, fake testimonials, and referral commissions to lure millions into financial ruin.

Presenting the lead debate, Senator Abiru detailed how CBEX capitalized on weak oversight by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to dupe unsuspecting investors.

He warned that beyond financial losses, such platforms are fueling depression, suicides and the erosion of public confidence in legitimate financial institutions.

“Over N1.3 trillion was lost to CBEX alone. This is not an isolated incident. It is a continuation of a troubling pattern, from MMM in 2016 to MBA Forex in 2020. Nigerians are being robbed, again and again,” Abiru said.

Senator Tahir Monguno (Borno North) called the situation “alarming” and stressed that existing laws must not only be amended but “strengthened” to prevent further exploitation.

He said: “These operators prey on vulnerable and gullible citizens. Some victims have died by suicide. It is time we acted decisively.”

Senator Sadiq Suleiman Umar (Kwara North) emphasized the trust Nigerians place in their government and urged agencies to live up to their mandate.

“People trust that the government will protect them. We must ensure that SEC, CBN, EFCC and others never allow such lapses again,” Umar said.

Senator Solomon Adeola (Ogun West) lamented the regulatory gap in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving fintech space. He warned that many digital platforms operate under the radar.

He said: “It’s not just Ponzi schemes. There are several other unregulated online payment platforms riding on fintech buzzwords. CBN must tell us what rules are in place.”

Senators Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) and others urged the National Assembly to utilize its constitutional powers under Sections 88 and 14 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to hold regulatory agencies accountable.

“These laws exist, but for too long we’ve failed to enforce them. The people are suffering,” Ningi declared.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio recounted a personal experience from the early 1990s involving a now-defunct Ponzi scheme in Port Harcourt, drawing parallels with today’s CBEX.

Akpabio said: “That scheme collapsed. People lost everything. History is repeating itself, only now on a bigger scale—N1.3 trillion gone. Students, civil servants, even pensioners were affected. This is an emergency.”

He backed calls for nationwide public sensitization and zonal public hearings.

According to the Senate President, “We must educate our people. Many of these victims are not literate in financial matters. If it doesn’t concern you directly, it will affect someone close to you.”

In its resolution, the Senate mandated a joint investigation by its Committees on Capital Market; Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions; Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes; and ICT & Cybersecurity.

The committees, to be led by that of Banking and Finance, are expected to conduct a comprehensive investigative hearing, including public sessions, and submit their report within four weeks.

The inquiry, according to Akpabio, will focus not only on CBEX but also on the broader Ponzi ecosystem, regulatory lapses and proposals for legislative and administrative reforms.

The Senate also called for immediate steps to educate the public, especially the youth and rural populations on the dangers of fraudulent investment schemes.

As the motion passed unopposed, Senator Akpabio declared: “We cannot sit back while Nigerians are being robbed blind. “We must act to prevent more suicides, restore trust, and reclaim our economy from digital predators.”

 


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