Gbenga Kayode | ����

Facing antitrust and privacy cases, a Federal court in the United States (US) has ruled that Google illegally, tracked users, and it ordered the global tech giant to pay $425 million in damages for privacy violations.

��ñ���� reports the technology company breached platform users’ privacy by collecting data from millions of people even after they had switched off a key tracking feature.

The court ruling, during the week, was said to be the latest legal setback for Google, which has continued to face antitrust and privacy cases.

DSTv Hikes: Ghana protects consumer rights, insists on revoking MultiChoice’s licence September 7

The ruling followed a class action lawsuit instituted by affected consumers, who said the Big Tech violated its own assurances by continuing to collect, save and use personal data despite settings in its Web & App Activity tool that were supposed to disable such tracking.

In the class action. plaintiffs had been seeking over $31billion in damages, according to report.

A jury found Google liable on two of three privacy claims but concluded the company had not acted with malice.

The case, filed since July 2020, represents around 98 million users and 174 million devices.

It equally alleged Google’s data collection extended into hundreds of thousands of apps, including those from Uber, Lyft, Amazon, Alibaba, Instagram and Facebook.

However, Google has denied wrongdoing and vowed to appeal the judgement, BBC report said.

Company Spokesperson reportedly said: “This decision misunderstands how our products work, and we will appeal it.

“Our privacy tools give people control over their data, and when they turn off personalisation, we honour that choice.”

The tech giant further argued that whenever Web & App Activity is disabled, businesses may still use Google Analytics to gather site and app data, but the information is anonymised, and does not personally identify individuals.

In regard to wider legal pressures, the decision adds to Google’s mounting legal troubles.

Just this week, shares in parent company Alphabet jumped over 9 percent after District Judge Amit Mehta ruled the company would not have to sell its Chrome browser in a separate antitrust case brought by the US Department of Justice.

However, Google will be barred from entering exclusive contracts and must share search data with competitors, report stated.

Meanwhile, District Judge Leonie Brinkema has already ruled that Google holds a monopoly in advertising technology. She is set to oversee a remedies trial later this month that could shape the future of the company’s lucrative ad business.

Gbenga Kayode | ����

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Friday, August 1, 2025, challenged young Nigerians active in the digital media space to harness their platforms as instruments of national progress, not division.

��ñ���� reports President Tinubu said this at the opening of the Progressives Digital Media Summit, with the theme: “Unveiling the Critical Role of New Media in National Development”, held in Abuja, FCT.

Photo: The Nigerian Inquirer 

He urged the new media influencers to build businesses that create employment, produce Web content that reflects unifying values, and serve as positive catalysts for societal development in the country’s digital ecosystem.

The Nigerian leader also stressed the critical importance of verifying information before amplifying it.

Mr. Bayo Onanuga, CON, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Friday also stated President Tinubu said: “Your generation has recognised this moment. You are using digital tools to innovate, educate, and demand accountability. “But as your influence grows, so must our collective sense of purpose and responsibility.”

He also stated: “I urge you to continue using digital platforms to advance our nation’s progress. Build businesses that employ others.

“Create content that uplifts and unites. Use your influence to foster unity, not division.”

Nigerian youths, digital media and socioeconomic transformation

Underscoring the importance of the space in modern life, President Tinubu commended the creativity and resilience of Nigeria’s youth.

He also described digital media environment as a driving force for economic and social transformation.

The President further stated: “It is no longer merely an accessory to life.

“From developing innovative platforms to building vibrant online communities, you are demonstrating the determination that is redefining what is possible for this country.”

He as well said: “You are not waiting for the future; you are building it.

“Digital media is now a central driver of economic growth, civic engagement, and social change.

“It broadens representation for those previously unheard.”

��ñ���� reports there are inherent challenges of the New Media landscape in Nigeria, according to a recent study, which established though the ecosystem “significantly impacted the media landscape, leading to the rise of digital platforms and a shift away from traditional media dominance.

“This includes the proliferation of online news outlets, social media influencers, and the adoption of digital technologies by traditional media houses.”

The study found although the new-fangled avenues offer information access and citizen engagement in the West African country, they equally “present challenges, such as the spread of misinformation, threats to press freedom, and the need for digital literacy.”

On creation of National Digital Innovation Fund and policies

President Tinubu said his administration is committed to supporting digital innovation with the National Digital Innovation Fund and policies that promote a thriving startup ecosystem in the country.

Tinubu, however, cautioned new media practitioners to remain vigilant against the increasing cases of disinformation and cyberthreats.

Speaking at the forum, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff (CoS) to the President, applauded digital media practitioners, who have consistently stood up for Nigeria and projected the country positively on the global stage.

Gbajabiamila asserted: “You are the vanguard of a reborn Nigeria, determined to reach for the stars. “Under President Tinubu’s leadership, our nation has begun its long-delayed march toward greatness. The road may be challenging, but it is necessary.”

Onanuga: Influencers should guard against falsehoods, divisive digital content

Also in a goodwill message, Mr. Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, highlighted the significance of the Summit.

The Presidential aide noted that lessons from recent elections in countries, such as the United States (US) and Germany, have underscored how digital media have become crucial battlegrounds beyond mere entertainment for shaping poll outcomes.

He stated: “However, social media is not a fair battleground.

“As a public square, it is often chaotic and unregulated. Users frequently disregard rules. Divisive content is rampant.”

Onanuga said: “Deepfakes and AI-generated content are increasingly used against political opponents.

“Posts are driven by clicks, not truth or accuracy. Misinformation spreads five times faster than official corrections.”

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, however, expressed optimism that the Summit would address these challenges, focusing on strategies to combat fake news and misinformation.

In his address, Segun Dada, Special Assistant to the President on New Media, who was the summit convener, emphasised that in less than a decade, digital media has evolved from a tool of personal connection into a powerful engine for communication, innovation and influence.

Dada emphasised the significance of deploying this force for the good of Nigeria, while managing inherent risks, including privacy concerns and threats to social cohesion in Nigeria.

Gbenga Kayode | ����

The Federal Government has expressed concerns about the increasing misapplication of new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) to produce and disseminate deepfake audio materials and videos to portray, especially public officials in compromising and false scenarios in the country’s digital ecosystem.

���� reports Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Honourable Minister for Information and National Orientation, sounded the note of caution Friday, May 23, 2025, while speaking during a courtesy visit by Alhaji Alhassan Yahaya, President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), in Abuja, FCT.

Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Honourable Minister for Information and National Orientation

The Minister particularly warned that deepfakes are fast becoming a dangerous tool for misinformation, reputation damage, and cause of distress to individuals and their families in Nigeria.

Impact of deepfakes on media landscape

Deepfakes (a portmanteau of ‘deep learning’ and ‘fake’) refer to “images, videos, or audio that have been edited or generated, using Artificial Intelligence, AI-based tools or AV editing software,” Wikipedia stated.

As a type of synthetic media created using AI, deepfakes are said to be impacting the media landscape negatively, raising concerns about misinformation, manipulation, and the erosion of trust in news and public figures.

While deepfakes can be used for creative purposes like entertainment and advocacy, they also pose significant threats to journalism and democracy, a report noted.

Mr. Rabiu Ibrahim, media aide to the Minister, in a statement said Idris also noted: “You could be sitting right here, and someone could superimpose another person’s head onto your body, completely misrepresenting you.

“Every day, we see how the president or ministers say one thing, and people twist it into something completely different.”

On Nigeria, UNESCO partnership to combat cyberthreats

Subsequently, in a move to curb the dangerous trend, the statement noted the Minister disclosed the Federal Government is partnering with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), to sanitise the social media landscape while upholding the principles of freedom of expression of Nigerians.

Idris equally stressed the need for a balanced approach that prevents harmful content without infringing on the rights of consumers to freely express themselves in cyberspace.

He also asserted: “As a government, we are looking at that seriously, especially how to sanitise the social media space without gagging the freedom of expression.

“Fortunately for us, the entire world is coming together to see how this menace can be fought. That’s why UNESCO is taking the lead.”

According to him, UNESCO has gathered inputs from over 100 countries, with over 10,000 submissions.

He Minister said the UN body had also developed a comprehensive guide for digital content creators to help uphold the integrity of the online space.

Idris urged the NUJ to support the fight against fake news and misinformation in the New Media space.

He as well harped on the need to safeguard the credibility of the journalism profession in this regard.

He stated: “For us at the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, we take the issue of misinformation and fake news very seriously, and we want to call on you to help us and collaborate with us towards eradicating quacks within this profession and not only that but encouraging citizen journalists and the general public to write and publish only what they know is correct.”

Besides, the Minister took the opportunity of Yahaya’s visit to inform the NUJ of the establishment of a Category 2 Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Institute, approved for Nigeria by UNESCO.

Idris explained the Institute, the first of its kind in the world, would equip journalists, students, and the general public with the skills to critically assess and responsibly engage with information in the digital space, combat misinformation and fake news, and promote professionalism.

He, therefore, congratulated the NUJ on its 70th Anniversary of dedicated service to the West African country.

The Minister reaffirmed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administration’s commitment to upholding press freedom as a cornerstone for the growth and sustainability of democracy in Nigeria.

Speaking earlier, Alhaji Yahaya, President of NUJ, had commended President Tinubu on appointing a media professional as the Minister for Information and National Orientation.

He pledged the NUJ’s readiness to partner with the Ministry to showcase the administration’s laudable achievements.

The NUJ President also briefed the Minister on the activities planned for the Union’s 70th Anniversary celebration, during which Idris is expected to serve as the Chief Host.

Gbenga Kayode | ����

Determined to combat the reported growing cyberthreats in the digital space in Nigeria, and other West African countries, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the German Federal Foreign Office and the European Union (EU) have organises a high-level briefing and workshop on Cyber Diplomacy for the ECOWAS Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC), in Abuja, FCT.

The German Embassy, in a recent statement on the event, said: “On 20 May 2025, the ECOWAS Commission in partnership with the German Federal Foreign Office and the European Union, under the Joint Platform for Advancing Cyber Security, hosted a High-Level Briefing and Workshop on Cyber Diplomacy for the ECOWAS Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC) in Abuja, Nigeria.”

Photo: ECOWAS Development Partners Cordination Cell (EDPCC) 

The statement noted: “As cyberthreats grow in complexity and scale, particularly in a rapidly digitalising West Africa, strengthening cybersecurity and international cooperation has become imperative to safeguard sustainable development and foster regional cyber resilience.

“Against this backdrop, the workshop aimed to enhance awareness of cybersecurity as a strategic foreign policy issue and foster regional dialogue on cyber diplomacy.”

���� reports the Economic Community of West African States and the European Union, over the years, have maintained a strong partnership focused on regional integration, peace and security, and economic development.

This collaboration encompasses several areas, including trade, development cooperation, and the fight against terrorism and migration.

The EU is regarded as “a key external partner for ECOWAS, providing funding and support for regional projects and initiatives,” a report noted.

The German Embassy further stated: “The event forms part of the ECOWAS-Germany-EU initiative on advancing cybersecurity.

“It seeks to implement the ECOWAS Cybersecurity Action Plan developed jointly under Germany’s G7 Presidency with a focus on building cyber diplomacy skills, advancing confidence-building measures (CBMs), and strengthening critical infrastructure across the region.”

Diplomacy key to defend shared values, cooperation in cyberspace: German Ambassador

The statement disclosed Annett Günther, German Ambassador to Nigeria,  opened the event on behalf of the German Embassy, in Abuja.

Speaking on the occasion, Günther emphasised that “in an era where cyberthreats know no borders, diplomacy is key to defend our shared values of security, trust, and cooperation in cyberspace.

“Cyber-diplomacy promotes cross-border cooperation and represents a crucial stride towards fostering a more secure and interconnected cyberspace – globally, and particularly here in West Africa.”

Likewise, Mr. Sédiko Douka, ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitalisation, and Amb. Musa Nuhu, Chair of the ECOWAS PRC, in their presentations, underlined the strategic value of digital resilience and multilateral engagement.

The workshop marked another milestone in the ongoing implementation of the ECOWAS Cybersecurity Agenda, and reaffirmed the commitment of all partners to strengthening regional security, trust, and sustainable digital transformation across the West African subregion.

Isola Moses | ����

The city of Enugu, in Enugu State of Nigeria, once famed for its coal deposits, is fast becoming a beacon of technological promise.

This transformation was powerfully underscored at the recent Enugu Tech Festival, a landmark event organised by the Enugu State Government, through the Ministry of Science and Technology under the leadership of Honourable Commissioner Dr. Prince Lawrence Ezeh.

With the theme, “From Coal to Code”, the festival marked a bold shift from legacy industries to a future powered by innovation.

The event featured a constellation of industry leaders, including Dr. Peter Mbah, Executive Governor of Enugu State; Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Honourable Minister for Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy; and Mr. Ayodele Olawande, Honourable Minister for Youth Development.

Others include Prof. Barth Nnaji, Founder/Chairman of Geometric Power; Dr. Kingsley Eze, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tenece Holdings; Dr. Obinna Iyiegbu, Chairman of Cubana Group; Tomi Davies, and CiC at TVC Labs.

Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh, Africa’s celebrated digital disruptor and Chairman of Zinox Group, was among other luminaries, who graced the event.

Ekeh’s presence electrified the audience, but it was his electrifying speech that actually sealed the moment.

Drawing from his over three decades of pioneering success in Africa’s tech ecosystem, the expert captivated the audience with hard truths and inspirational insights on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the boundless potential of technology, when deployed ethically.

He also told the captivated audience that “hope is not a strategy in the 21st century.”

It was a stark reminder that while optimism is valuable, it must be matched by concrete skills and bold execution.

In a world dominated by algorithms, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and disruptive innovations, Ekeh opined that success belongs to those who dare to act and build decisively.

Zinox Group stated the ovation that followed Dr. Ekeh’s address revealed the fire he had lit in the hearts of young technology enthusiasts present at the landmark Enugu Tech Festival.

The Chairman of Zinox Group charged the young innovators to use technology not just to make a living but to change lives.

“Tech,” Ekeh declared, “has the power to redefine Enugu, Nigeria, and Africa — but only if we approach it with purpose.”

It is noted that everyone who spoke before and after echoed the same rallying cry: tomorrow begins now.

In his address on the occasion, Olawande, Minister for Youth Development, characterised the event as the largest youth gathering for a technology-focused programme.

He further praised the organisers and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to youth empowerment.

Enugu targets $30bn in 8 years: Gov. (Dr.) Mbah

In his speech, Enugu state State Governor said his administration had set a bold target of growing its economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion in eight years through a 27 percent annual growth rate.

Initiatives like this tech festival are strategic steps toward that vision of positioning Enugu as a hub for business tourism, innovation, and inclusive prosperity.

But for this dream to materialise, all stakeholders must act.

According to Ekeh, our future will match our imagination, only if we dare to build it.

“The Nigeria we want will depend not on hope, but on action,” stated the tech expert.

Isola Moses | ����

In its bid to enhance faster and much better Internet connectivity in the West African country, Starlink, the world’s leading provider of satellite launch services and major Internet Service Provider (ISP), has raised the bar with its latest Gen 3 kit, in Nigeria.

The company disclosed this cutting-edge hardware delivers unprecedented performance and convenience, following a significant upgrade in design to meet the demands of Nigerian consumers in homes, businesses and organisations.

The new Starlink Gen 3 kit is available on e-commerce stores like Konga.com.

It is equipped with a Wi-Fi 6 chipset.

The device has also seen a significant boost in its data speed, enhanced to handle heavy data requirements.

According to Starlink, the latest upgrade is particularly, beneficial for smart homes, where multiple devices compete for bandwidth simultaneously.

It further said one of the most welcomed improvements is the built-in Ethernet port, eliminating the need for a separate adapter that previous generations required.

It also explained this integrated solution streamlines setup and reduces potential points of failure in the system .

Multi-floor buildings and large homes will appreciate the improved range and reliability of the Gen 3 kit, the company noted.

The enhanced signal strength ensures consistent connectivity throughout spacious environments, reaching areas that were previously challenging for wireless networks.

Durability remains a priority with the Gen 3’s more efficient heat management system, which substantially extends the hardware’s lifespan by reducing thermal stress.

The addition of tri-band radios delivers enhanced mesh performance. Water-resistant port covers further extend its durability, making it ideal for diverse Nigerian environments.

Caution to consumers on acquiring new Starlink Gen 3 kit

Starlink, however, urges prospective buyers to exercise caution regarding where they purchase their Starlink equipment in the country.

Starlink, in 2024, had warned against purchases from grey market vendors, as kits acquired outside approved retailers would not be activated.

The company also emphasised that customers should only obtain products from authorised sellers to ensure authenticity and compatibility.

For guaranteed authenticity and competitive pricing, shoppers are encouraged to visit Konga online, Nigeria’s leading composite e-commerce platform.

Starlink has an exclusive shop-in-shop on Konga’s shopping platform.

So, the e-commerce giant can offer these authentic kits with full manufacturer support and guarantee, ensuring optimal performance for all users.

Since January 2023, when Nigeria became the first African market to welcome Starlink, the service has rapidly grown to become a household name through its strategic partnership with TD Africa.

According to recent data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Starlink now ranks second only to Spectranet, a 16-year-old Lagos-based ISP, in terms of market share.

The leading provider of satellite launch services is projected to top the chart by 2026.

For Nigerians seeking reliable, high-speed internet connectivity with next-generation features, the Starlink Gen 3 kit represents the pinnacle of satellite Internet technology currently available in the market.

Gbenga Kayode | ����

Mr. Dipo Fatokun, Chairman of the Board of Flutterwave Technology Solutions Limited, Africa’s leading payment technology company, has shared insights into the future of Africa’s financial ecosystem at Harvard Business School (HBS), Massachusetts, in the United States (US).

Fatokun, who participated in a recent panel discussion of Harvard Business School’s Africa Business Conference, titled, “Building Robust Pan-African Financial Systems”, stressed the significance of innovations and strategies in driving a more interconnected, efficient, secure, and inclusive financial landscape across the continent.

A statement also noted Fatokun highlighted the transformative potential of emerging technologies like Blockchain in improving payments in Africa.

Citing an example from Nigeria, the Chairman of Flutterwave stated: “The Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), which is the central switch, is collaborating with a local company to integrate blockchain technology. “This means we can eliminate, not reduce, payment failures.”

He also stated: “Imagine a scenario when your (debit) card payment fails at a fuel station after you filled your car, instead of waiting for manual reversal, the system automatically corrects in real time, increasing payment reliability.

“When digital payments work seamlessly, adoption will naturally increase.”

It is equally noted while fraud can’t be fully stopped, it’s crucial for FinTech companies, regulators, and law enforcement to collaborate to reduce such risks in the FinTech space.

Fatokun said: “Flutterwave has taken significant steps in this regard by partnering with Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to equip investigators with the necessary tools to combat cybercrime.

“Strengthening fraud reporting and intelligence-sharing across Africa will be crucial in safeguarding the financial ecosystem.”

The Chairman of Flutterwave, who is a former Director of Banking and Payments System at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), played a key role in initiatives like the Bank Verification Number (BVN) for digital identity in the West African country.

Speaking on the panel at HBS, he as well offered expert perspectives on the critical role of Central Banks in reviewing new financial products before they enter the market.

The statement noted: “A well-regulated environment, Mr. Fatokun continued, not only prevents bad actors from exploiting the system but also enhances consumer trust in digital financial services.”

The Chairman also expressed confidence in Africa’s FinTech evolution, stating that improvements in fundamentals, such as identity verification will be crucial in driving financial access and efficiency.

“In the US, for instance, identity verification is straightforward due to Social Security Numbers. Nigeria has NIN and BVN, but many other African countries might not have such systems.

“Before digital payments can gain widespread adoption, these foundational issues must first be addressed,” he explained.

Mr. Mustapha Mourahib, a partner at Clifford Chance and panelist on the discussion, emphasised Africa’s advancements in financial innovation.

Mourahib highlighted the continent’s low default rates on infrastructure financing, and its leadership in mobile banking and real-time payments.

Contributing to the panel discussion also, Mr. Abdirashid Duale, CEO of Dahabshiil, lauded the contributions of mobile-first solutions in the financial ecosystem.

Duale stressed the significance of leveraging cutting-edge technology to develop tailored solutions, which he considers crucial for enhancing financial inclusion across Africa.

The Chairman of Flutterwave reaffirmed the FinTech’s dedication to providing the reliable payment infrastructure that connects Africa to the global economy.

Fatokun added: “The only room that is never full is the room for improvement.

“The progress we see in cross-border payments today is just the beginning—we must keep pushing the boundaries.”

Gbenga Kayode | ����

Against the backdrop of ongoing conversations on expanding digital infrastructure in Nigeria while equipping the workforce with essential digital skills for the future, Sundar Pichai, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Google, has declared that Nigeria has “an incredible opportunity to lead in AI and digital innovation in Africa.”

��ñ���� reports Pichai stated this during a recent meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in Paris, French capital, in company with Dr. ’Bosun Tijani, Honourable Minister for Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE).

The Google Chief also noted that the global tech giant is “excited to continue working with the Nigerian Government to create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and economic growth” on the African continent.

Nigeria’s digital revolution concept      Photo: Digital Watch Observatory

Earlier in the meeting in Paris, President Tinubu had commended Pichai, Chief Executive Officer of Google, for the global tech giant’s interest in advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation in the country.

Google Team also engaged in constructive discussions with the Nigerian leader, with a view to building a strategic partnership to enhance Nigeria’s journey towards Artificial Intelligence and digital transformation.

The collaboration seeks to position the Wes African country as a prominent technology and innovation hub, leveraging AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure to promote economic growth and enhance global competitiveness.

Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy also disclosed the ongoing conversations between Nigeria and Google have focused on key initiatives.

The Federal Government as well noted such digital initiatives include expanding digital infrastructure, equipping the workforce with essential digital skills for the future, promoting AI-driven research and innovation, encouraging greater cloud adoption across various industries, and positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global digital economy ecosystem.

FMCIDE, NITDA to offer strategic oversight, coordinate efforts for impact

President Tinubu, during the meeting with Pichai in Paris, also explained the partnership aligns seamlessly with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which is centred on economic diversification through industrialisation, technology and innovation.

Onanuga further stated that the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy would provide strategic oversight, while the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) will coordinate efforts alongside the private sector to ensure widespread and meaningful impact.

Benefits of AI, digital transformation for Nigerian businesses, consumers:  Minister

Speaking on the engagement with the President, Dr. Tijani said partnership between Nigeria and Google would represent an important opportunity to accelerate technological advancement and strengthen Nigeria Digital Economy.

The Minister for FMCIDE also averred that the country is committed to ensuring that AI and digital transformation create tangible benefits for businesses and consumers across the country.

The statement noted President Tinubu as well acknowledged Nigeria’s potential as a burgeoning global technology destination.

He expressed his commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts strategic investments from leading global tech companies.

The Presidential aide said Tinubu appreciated Google’s ongoing involvement in digital transformation, and its contribution to opening new opportunities for businesses and young talents in the country.

“The discussions will continue as both parties look to deepen their collaboration and expedite Nigeria’s digital transformation, paving the way for sustainable economic growth,” Onanuga further stated.

Isola Moses | ����

In demonstrating the Federal Government of Nigeria’s seriousness with its fight against corruption and financial crimes, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Friday, February 21, 2025, handed over a total sum of $132,362.43, N78,566,324.81 to American, Spanish and Swiss victims of local fraudsters at the Commission’s Corporate Headquarters, in Abuja, FCT.

The EFCC described the arrangement as a gesture of its commitment to tackling economic and financial crimes and offering restitution to victims of fraudulent practices.

The country’s anti-graft regulatory Commission, in a statement Friday, said Mr. Ola Olukoyede, Executive Chairman of EFCC, performed the handover of the sums of money in Abuja.

Significance of restituting financial crime victims, by Olukoyede

Olukoyede stated: “The event is a demonstration of the commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria and that of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the fight against corruption and financial crimes.

“A commitment to good governance, a commitment to stimulating the economy and a commitment to prove to the entire world that Nigeria is not a safe haven for financial crimes, a commitment to international cooperation and international synergy in the fight against financial crimes, which you will agree with me, has become a global crime.”

The EFCC also said: “We are here (in Abuja) to demonstrate that the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC is ready to do everything possible to prevent financial crimes from being perpetrated in our system. And when one has taken place, to investigate where assets are involved, to trace, to recover and where necessary, prosecute.

“We don’t just recover; we restitute the victims. We are here this morning to restitute those who were victimised through the perpetration of economic and financial crimes.

“It is important to know that once the proceeds of crime are recovered, the most responsible thing to do is to restitute the victims.”

The statement noted: “Handed over in addition to money are vehicles and real estate to citizens of Spain, the United States of America and Switzerland.

“Acting Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, Maria Higon Velasco, received the sum of $1,300 and evidence of N30 million already transferred to the Embassy of Spain in Nigeria for onward transmission to a victim, Maria Del Rosario San Jose.”

It further announced that “Florent Geel, Senior Political Officer, First Secretary, Embassy of Switzerland received $100,011.43 (One Hundred Thousand, Eleven Dollars and Forty-three Cents on behalf of a victim, Chantai Helene Lavancy, formerly known as Chantai Helene Maeder. Charles Smith, Legal Attache, Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, Embassy of the United States received the sum of $7,344 (Seven Thousand, Three Hundred and Forty-Four Dollars); N7,963,483.35 (Seven Million, Nine Hundred and Sixty-three Thousand, Four Hundred and Eighty-three Naira, Thirty-five Kobo), and Bitcoin cryptocurrency valued at $4,470.00 (Four Thousand, Four Hundred and Seventy Dollars) on behalf of the United States Embassy in Nigeria for onward transmission to a victim, Maria Jesus Brockell.

“Also received by Smith was Mercedes Benz E550 4Matic Chasis No: WDDHF9AB6AA111112, Mercedes Benz C450 AMG with Chasis No: WDD20J0641F282467, and one residential bungalow, located at 17/19 Seaman Street, Unguwar Maigero, Kaduna, Kaduna State on behalf of the United States Embassy in Nigeria for onward transmission to the crime victim.”

The EFCC stated: “Additionally, Smith received the sum of $7,527 (Seven thousand, Five Hundred and Twenty-seven Dollars) on behalf of the United States Embassy in Nigeria for onward transmission to the victim of the crime, Michael Smith.

“He also received the sum of $11,710.00 (Eleven Thousand, Seven Hundred and Ten Dollars) on behalf of the United States Embassy in Nigeria for onward transmission to the crime victim, Cheryle Williams.

“Lastly, Smith received the sum of N32,639,358.11 (Thirty-Two Million, Six Hundred and Thirty-nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Fifty-eight Naira, Eleven Kobo) on behalf of the United States Embassy, in Nigeria, for onward transmission to the crime victim, Marva Marrow.”

Spanish Envoy affirms ‘EFCC is a major global contender’

The Commission said that Her Excellency Maria Higon Velasco, Acting Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Government and the EFCC.

The envoy stated: “This is a sign of the collaboration between Nigeria and Spain, and we are very grateful for this collaboration.” Smith said

“As the FBI Legal Attache and the representative of the US government, I want to say we personally appreciate this.”

“Many here may not understand what the impact this has to the victims. This gives them complete closure and it allows them to feel whole again.

“So, we really do appreciate and we thank the EFCC. The EFCC is just not operating in Nigeria. The EFCC is a major global contender, and you should recognise that every time.”

Likewise, on behalf of the Government of Switzerland, Florent Geel, Senior Political Officer, First Secretary of the Embassy of Switzerland, thanked the Nigerian Government and EFCC for the recovery and restitution.

The envoy said: “I thank the Nigerian Government and especially the EFCC for the work they have done to combat internet fraud and other financial crimes.

“Today’s restitution of money obtained from a Swiss citizen demonstrates the effectiveness but also integrity, professionalism, courage and collaboration that occur between Nigeria and Switzerland.”

“So, thank you for this exemplary collaboration and work in making the digital world safer and better regulated.

“Switzerland will continue to work alongside the Nigerian government in the service of the security of our respective people. So, thank you again,” he said.

This is really an unprecedented development ─Foreign Affairs Ministry

Meanwhile, Umar Ahmed, Permanent Secretary in the Foreign Affairs Ministry, has commended Olukoyede for his efforts in the anti-corruption fight, as he conveyed the felicitation of Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Honourable Minister for Foreign Affairs, and the entire Ministry to the EFCC and the Nigerian Government.

Ahmed noted: “This is really an unprecedented development, and you cannot believe the impact that this development will have on the mandate of the ministry, because it makes our work a whole lot easier because it really enhances the credibility of Nigeria in the international scene.

“And it will also go a long way in restoring investors’ confidence in the country. And the ministry is very well with you in pursuing this mandate and want to thank you for this initiative.”

The Permanent Secretary averred: “It demonstrates the support of our President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the fight against corruption and also in strengthening the EFCC in carrying out its mandate.

“All of us in the Ministry are really happy with this development, and we’ll keep on working with you and supporting you and in carrying your mandate.”

Gbenga Kayode | ����

The Federal Government is consolidating measures towards the Nigeria Digital Economy agenda for sustainable growth and development.

��ñ���� reports Dr. ’Bosun Tijani, Honourable Minister for Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, who stated this said stakeholders would work together towards building a stronger foundation for a $1 trillion economy in the West African country.

Tijani, in a recent blog note via his verified social media account, noted: “As we reimagine the operations and efficiency of the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), I am looking forward to engaging with stakeholders on February 5th, 2025 at a co-creation session.

The Minister disclosed the theme of the form with the stakeholders, including the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), National Informational Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and Glovo, is: “Accelerating E-commerce through Digital and Physical Infrastructure Integration”.

He also assured: “Together with industry leaders, policymakers and other stakeholders we will explore solutions to Nigeria’s e-commerce logistical barriers as we work towards a stronger foundation for a $1 trillion economy.”