Isola Moses | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) Thursday, October 9, 2025, inaugurated a new Executive Council at its two-day 9th Annual Conference held in Ikeja, Lagos State.

蟯簽瓬ぺ reports GOCOP Thursday, on the second day of the conference, swore-in Danlami Nmodu, mni, Publisher of Newsdiaryonline, as the new President along with other members of the Executive, following a keenly contested election earlier held Wednesday, October 8.

L-R: Ofonime Umamah (TNN); Adedapo Falade (Newscoven); Olayinka Agboola (PMParrot & ParrotXtra Magazine); Olugbenga Kayode (蟯簽瓬ぺ); Olumuyiwa Akintunde (BreezyNewsNG); and Tola Akinmutimi (BRTNews), During the Induction of New Members at the 9th GOCOP Annual Conference, in Lagos

The theme of this year’s conference, chaired by Chief Bode George, ex-Military Governor of Old Ondo State and former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party, is: “Reconciling Campaign Promises with Governance Realities – Challenges and Prospects”.

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Other newly-elected officers include Mr. Olumide Iyanda, Deputy President; Mr. Sufuyan Ojeifo, General Secretary; Mr. Akeem Oyetunji, Deputy General Secretary; Ms. Ngozi Onyeakusi, Treasurer; Mr. Moses Ebosele, Financial Secretary; and Ms. Kemi Yesufu as the Publicity Secretary.

New Executive members of GOCOP with some dignitaries at the event

The Presidency of GOCOP was the only contested position during the election between Mr. Danlami Nmodu and Mr. Segun Adeleye, his challenger.

The other officers were returned unopposed.

The electoral committee disclosed that out of the 114, 80 members attended the Annual General Congress in person, 71 voted physically, some nine members adopted e-voting.

Nmodu scored a total of 63 votes to emerge the new President of GOCOP.

L-R: Mr. Ken Ugbechie, Publisher of Political Economist as the Moderator; Alhaji Lanre Issa-Onilu, Director-General of National Orientation Agency; Prof. Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, Director of Institute of Continuing Education, University of Lagos; and Mr. Muskilu Mojeed, Co-founder and Editor-in-Chief of Premium Times at the panel session on the conference theme: ‘Reconciling Campaign Promises with Governance Realities – Challenges and Prospects’

Nmodu, with the inauguration of the Executive Council, has received the baton of leadership of GOCOP from Dr. Maureen Chigbo, immediate past President of the Guild and Publisher of RealNews Magazine.

Nmodu unveils leadership agenda

Expressing appreciation in his acceptance speech, Nmodu thanked members of GOCOP for finding him worthy of the office of President.

The new President also pledged to abide by the ideals, rules and regulations of the Guild towards taking GOCOP to a higher level of growth within the online publishing community in Nigeria.

He also stated: ���I take the responsibility of the office seriously. Our members shall come first.

“I promise to work harmoniously with other Exco officers and members to take GOCOP to a higher level of growth.”

Nmodu as well assured members of creating more human capital and business opportunities for them all.

Inauguration of 8 new members

In a related development, the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers on the second day of this year’s conference Thursday also inducted eight new members into the Guild.

The inaugurated members as Publishers and Chief Executives of online news publications are: Adedapo Falade (Newscoven); Olayinka Agboola (PMParrot & ParrotXtra Magazine); Olugbenga Kayode (蟯簽瓬ぺ); Olumuyiwa Akintunde (BreezyNewsNG); Tola Akinmutimi (BRTNewsNG); Tony Amokeodo (The Ideal News); Ofonime Umamah (TNN); and Wilson Aderibigbe (Maritime First).

Speaking on the membership application procedures at the event, Mr. Muskilu Mojeed, Editor-in-Chief and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Premium Times, disclosed the new members had scaled through a rigorous process, having satisfied stated stringent membership criteria.

On role of media in advancing democracy, good governance

A key highlight of the well-attended conference was a panel session of discussants to do justice to the theme of the conference, moderated by Mr. Ken Ugbechie, Publisher of Political Economist.

Members of the panel included Alhaji Lanre Issa-Onilu, Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA); Prof. Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, Director, Institute of Continuing Education, University of Lagos (UNILAG); and Mr. Muskilu Mojeed of Premium Times.

In his contribution, Mojeed urged the Nigerian Government to provide sustained support for media professionals to perform their statutory role as the Fourth Estate of the Realm in the country.

He equally emphasised their critical role in bridging the gap between political campaign promises and governance realities in Nigeria.

According to him, despite the indispensable role of the media in democracy, government support remains minimal in the system.

Mojeed averred: “The government hardly gives us support.

“The fact is, everyone needs the media, especially when in power and even more when out of power.”

The media must be empowered to effectively serve as the voice of the people and watchdog of society, he stated.

Despite some palliatives handed out to certain media houses during the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, particularly through debt waivers, the media chief contended that such gestures were not enough.

He urged the Nigerian Government to do more to strengthen the media industry to thrive.

The COO of the online news medium as well decried the poor quality of leadership in Nigeria.

Several politicians come into office unprepared for the responsibilities of governance, said he.

He declared: ���There���s a clear disconnect between campaign promises and actual delivery.”

Urging media professionals to embrace technology and innovation, Mojeed described them as vital tools for enhancing accountability, and reinforcing the media���s role in promoting transparency and good governance in the economy.

GOCOP is a Nigerian, non-governmental, non-partisan, non-profit making organisation, borne out of the increasing need to ensure that online publishers uphold the tenets of journalism in the performance of their statutory role in the economy.

It is also about the pressing need to sanitise the online publishing space in the country, as it is the future of journalism as it obtains in the developed countries.

Isola Moses | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

In line with the West African country���s strategic roadmap for emerging technologies, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has restated Nigeria���s commitment to becoming a key shaper in the global Artificial Intelligence (AI) ecosystem.

蟯簽瓬ぺ reports Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, Director-General of NITDA, who noted this while speaking at a Stakeholders��� Interactive engagement with the BRICS Women���s Business Alliance, in the State House, in Abuja, FCT, said the country���s efforts were deeply anchored on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu���s Renewed Hope Agenda.

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Inuwa, at the plenary session with the theme: ���Technology, Migration & Trade Representation���, outlined Nigeria���s strategic roadmap for emerging technologies, in including AI.

He also highlighted how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu���s Renewed Hope Agenda has placed strong emphasis on economic diversification and inclusivity, with priority number seven, focusing on accelerating industrialisation, digitalisation, creative industries, manufacturing, and innovation.

The Director-General of NITDA disclosed the President���s vision has informed the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy���s roadmap, and this has, in turn, guided NITDA���s ongoing initiatives to transform Nigeria into a digital powerhouse on the African continent.

At the heart of this ambition, he further said, is Nigeria���s National AI Strategy (NAIS), which outlines a clear pathway for the country���s technological future.

He described the first priority as building foundational infrastructure that would allow Nigeria to play a meaningful role in the AI journey.

According to him, this involved expanding connectivity, developing sovereign cloud platforms, and building clean and representative national datasets.

He noted the launch of the National Multilingual Large Language Model in New York as a major milestone.

Hajia Hadiza Umar, Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations at NITDA, also stated Inuwa said: ���For us, it is important that our languages, our culture, and our people are represented in the AI of the future.

���That is why we built Nigeria���s own multilingual large language model ��� to ensure that technology reflects our identity and diversity.���

He as well emphasised the importance of nurturing the ecosystem by empowering startups and innovators, anchored by the Nigerian Startup Act which provides a legal and institutional framework for growth.

Inuwa stated: ���Innovation does not happen in isolation. You need an ecosystem that connects government, innovators, investors, and global partners.

���Through our startup policies, we are not just encouraging entrepreneurship; we are deliberately prioritising inclusivity and giving women founders the space to thrive.���

On sectoral transformation, he explained that AI was being integrated into key industries such as healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and education to radically boost productivity, adding that AI would not replace humans; rather, it would enhance human endeavor.

The NITDA Chief explained: ���With AI, we can achieve ten times the productivity we are seeing today. Imagine what it means when our doctors can diagnose faster, our farmers can predict yields better, and our manufacturers can cut inefficiencies. That is the kind of leap Nigeria is preparing for.���

The Director-General observed that if technology was not designed with inclusivity in mind, vulnerable groups could be left behind in the space.

He averred: ���If you are digitally invisible, AI will not consider you in its decision-making. That is why inclusivity is not optional ��� it is central.

���In every one of our initiatives, we insist on at least 40 percent women representation, because we cannot build a future that excludes half of our population.���

Stressing the importance of strong governance and regulation, Inuwa said Nigeria was co-creating its AI governance framework with the ecosystem to ensure sustainability.

���We cannot build this future in silos. We are working hand in hand with innovators, industry leaders, and the global community to create policies that safeguard innovation while protecting citizens.

���This is how Nigeria will lead responsibly,��� he assured stakeholders.

According to him, in regard to this bold vision, Nigeria is sending a clear message to the global world, that the country is not waiting to be carried along in the AI revolution but was building the future and inviting others to innovate alongside it.

Inuwa asserted: ���Our journey is not just about technology, it is about people, prosperity, and positioning Nigeria as a global leader in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.���

Gbenga Kayode | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

In line with the far-reaching impact of technologies in advancing the modern digital economy and improving processes, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has affirmed Nigeria is taking a leading and strategic position in championing the fast-paced global Artificial Intelligence (AI) race.

蟯簽瓬ぺ reports Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, Director-General of NITDA, disclosed this at the BRICS Women���s Business Alliance Stakeholders��� interactive session, in Abuja, FCT.

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Inuwa stated averred that Nigeria is not waiting to be carried along in the global AI race, stating ���we are taking the driver���s seat.���

Speaking on a plenary session titled, “Technology, Migration & Trade Representation”, the Director-General of the Information Technology sector regulatory agency also stated that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu���s Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigeria���s ambition is to shape the future of AI, not just participate in it.

Insight into 5-pillar National AI Strategy, by Inuwa

The agency, in a statement via its verified social media account, also noted Inuwa highlighted a five-pillar National AI Strategy that puts people first: building sovereign digital infrastructure, empowering startups and women founders, transforming key industries with AI, ensuring ethical adoption, and co-creating strong governance frameworks.

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According to NITDA, from the launch of the country���s National Multilingual Large Language Model, in New York, United States (US), to a bold target of 40 percent women participation in AI initiatives, the country���s message is clear.

It asserted: ���Nigeria is building an inclusive, innovative future where technology fuels productivity, jobs, and economic growth.���

Gbenga Kayode | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

A coalition under the auspices of Paradigm Initiative has raised the alarm over fragile digital rights and worsening data security in Nigeria.

Paradigm Initiative warned that sensitive citizens’ and government’s information has been leaked online consistently, in the past three years.

蟯簽瓬ぺ reports Mr. Gbenga Sesan, Executive Director of Paradigm Initiative, disclosed this development while speaking at a media briefing, in Abuja, FCT, alleged that personal information about Nigerians is being sold cheaply online.

Sesan said even the details of prominent figures in the country are easily accessible to anyone with just their full name and date of birth.

The Executive Director of Paradigm Initiative also lamented that despite Nigeria���s progress in technology, key rights such as privacy, online protection, freedom of expression, and access to information remain under serious threat.

He equally blamed arbitrary Internet disruptions, weak enforcement of data protection laws, surveillance, and inconsistent policies for eroding public trust and stunting the growth of the Nigeria Digital Economy.

Sesan as well lauded development partners, including the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Ford Foundation, Luminate, Wellspring Philanthropic Fund, Mott Foundation, Open Society Foundations, IDRC, and Internet Society Foundation, for supporting the organisation���s cause through the STANDS Project.

According to Paradigm Initiative, the project combines litigation, advocacy, and capacity building to safeguard citizens��� digital rights.

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In her remarks at the briefing, Nnenna Paul-Ugochukwu, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Paradigm Initiative, highlighted the group���s impact across Africa through reports, digital toolkits, award-winning short films, and scholarships, especially for young people from underserved communities, such as Ajegunle in Lagos, where the initiative first began.

Unveiling the 2024 Nigeria Londa Report

Khadija El-Usman, organisation���s Senior Programmes Officer for Anglophone West Africa, presented the 2024 Nigeria Londa Report.

The 2024 Nigeria Londa Report benchmarks the West African country���s digital rights record against the African Commission���s Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information.

The report indicated Nigeria scored 36 out of 60, placing it at a ���moderately compliant��� level that reflects both progress and continuing setbacks in the digital ecosystem.

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As regards challenges of sustainable connectivity in Nigeria, Paradigm Initiative, such as Internet affordability, weak connectivity, and low digital literacy���particularly among women, rural dwellers, and persons 2024 Nigeria Londa Report participation.

Despite financial constraints faced by civil society, the Paradigm Initiative yet restated its commitment to defending digital rights.

The organisation, therefore, urged the Nigerian Government to strengthen law enforcement, review the Cybercrime Act, and adopt a National Action Plan on Digital Rights in the country.

Gbenga Kayode | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

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.

蟯簽瓬ぺ 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.

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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 | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

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.

蟯簽瓬ぺ 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.”

蟯簽瓬ぺ 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 | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

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.

蟯簽瓬ぺ 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 | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

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.���

蟯簽瓬ぺ 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 G羹nther, German Ambassador to Nigeria,�� opened the event on behalf of the German Embassy, in Abuja.

Speaking on the occasion, G羹nther 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. S矇diko 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 | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

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 | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

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.