In an era where digital transformation is defining economic growth and global competitiveness, Nigeria is positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s technology revolution. With an ambitious partnership with Google, the country is set to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and digital infrastructure to drive innovation and economic diversification.

According to a report by Punch Newspaper, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently announced Nigeria’s commitment to leading AI innovations in Africa. His announcement came after a high-level engagement with SundarPichai, the Chief Executive Officer of Google and Alphabet, during a meeting in France. This partnership, as highlighted by the President, is designed to advance Nigeria’s role in AI and digital technology, reinforcing his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritisesindustrialisation, digitisation, and innovation.

Beyond governmental rhetoric, this collaboration aims to materialise into practical initiatives that will empower businesses, create jobs, and enhance Nigeria’s digital economy. The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy is expected to oversee the implementation of these initiatives, with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) playing a lead role in execution.

According to the Director-General of NITDA,KashifuInuwaAbdullahi CCIE, the partnership between Nigeria and Google is a critical step towardtowards making Nigeria a digitally empowered nation , fostering inclusive economic growth through technological innovation. . Speaking in a televised interview, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, he emphasised that the collaboration will focus on infrastructure development, upskilling Nigerian citizens, fostering AI innovation, adopting cloud technologies, and creating an investment-friendly environment.

One of the major areas of focus is the establishment of data centres to support Nigeria’s growing digital infrastructure, putting the country on the path of digital sovereignty The NITDA boss noted that no data centre globally relies solely on grid electricity. Thus, the integration of renewable energy sources and carbon credit initiatives will be key to the sustainability of this project.

Furthermore, the partnership aims to enhance digital literacy by embedding digital skills training across Nigeria’s educational system, from primary school to tertiary institutions. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of preparing the Nigerian workforce for emerging opportunities in the global digital economy.

While the collaboration with Google is extensive, Nigeria is also making strides in AI research through other strategic initiatives. President Tinubu highlighted Awarri Technologies as a key player in the AI space, with ongoing efforts to build critical AI software infrastructure tailored to Nigeria’s unique market needs.

The strategic partnership between Nigeria and Google represents a significant leap toward positioning the country as Africa’s digital powerhouse. By leveraging AI, cloud computing, and scalable digital infrastructure, Nigeria is on course to becoming a major player in the global technology landscape.

With the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy providing oversight and NITDA spearheading implementation, the collaboration promises to create new economic opportunities, enhance digital access, and equip Nigerians with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. As Nigeria embraces this digital revolution, the partnership with Google may well be the catalyst that propels the country into a future where technology drives inclusive growth, innovation, and sustainable development.

The deaths of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo, two of Nigeria’s most vocal and unyielding statesmen, mark the end of an era of relentless advocacy for equity, justice, and true federalism. These men, who dedicated their lives to championing the rights of their respective regions and the Nigerian nation as a whole, leave behind legacies that will continue to shape national discourse for generations to come.

Clark, the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), was a towering figure in the struggle for resource control, regional autonomy, and the equitable treatment of the Niger Delta region. His voice echoed through the corridors of power, demanding fairness in the distribution of the nation’s wealth, particularly in the oil-rich South-South region. His efforts to mediate peace among warring factions in the Niger Delta and his role in national reconciliation positioned him as a statesman whose influence went beyond his immediate region. Even at the age of 97, he remained unwavering in his pursuit of justice, exemplified by his recent intervention in the political rift between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike.

Pa Ayo Adebanjo, on the other hand, was the enduring face of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group. Adebanjo embodied the struggle for restructuring, consistently advocating for a return to true federalism—a cause he believed would address Nigeria’s persistent governance failures. He was a key figure in the push for the full implementation of the 2014 National Conference report, which he saw as a blueprint for resolving the country’s political and socio-economic challenges. His unapologetic stance on national issues, particularly his insistence on power devolution and fairness in political representation, made him a formidable figure in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Beyond their regional advocacies, both men shared a broader nationalistic vision. They were instrumental in uniting voices from different regions in the call for a South-Eastern presidency in 2023, recognizing the need for inclusivity and balance in Nigeria’s leadership. Their participation in the Greater Nigeria Conference and subsequent campaigns for restructuring underscored their commitment to a Nigeria where no group felt marginalized.

Their deaths, coming just days apart, are a significant loss to Nigeria’s political and ideological landscape. In a country where compromise often overrides principle, Clark and Adebanjo stood firm in their convictions, offering a rare brand of leadership rooted in history, experience, and the unwavering pursuit of justice. Their absence leaves a void that must now be filled by a new generation of leaders with the courage to speak truth to power and fight for the nation’s collective progress.

As Nigeria mourns these two titans, it must also reflect on the issues they fought for. The calls for restructuring, resource control, and fair governance remain as relevant today as ever. If anything, their passing should reignite the debate and inspire those who believe in a better Nigeria to pick up the mantle. Clark and Adebanjo may be gone, but the ideals they championed must not die with them.

By Zachariah C.H

The appointment of Hon. Olushola Olofin as the new Board Chairman of the Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on January 24, 2025, marks a new dawn for the organization. Hon. Olofin is a seasoned professional with an impeccable track record in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and management, boasting over 20 years of experience both within Nigeria and internationally. His unique blend of expertise, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence positions him as the ideal leader to steer NSITF toward greater heights.

Hon. Olofin has been a driving force behind Nigeria’s digital transformation. As an ICT and management expert, he has consistently demonstrated the ability to harness cutting-edge technology to address complex challenges, fostering innovation and efficiency in every organization he has led. As a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Consultants, his strategic insights have revolutionized operations across sectors, leaving a legacy of progress and sustainability

Hon. Olofin’s extensive leadership experience spans multiple industries. He has served as Board Chairman, Managing Director, and Executive Director of prominent organizations, including Aquasilica Limited and Enrich Systems Limited. Currently, he serves as the Managing Director/CEO of SatCom Integrated Resources, a globally acclaimed ICT company, where his innovative leadership has propelled the company to new heights in the global marketplace. His ability to build, manage, and transform organizations makes him uniquely suited to lead the NSITF into a new era of accountability, transparency, and service delivery.

Hon. Olofin’s academic and professional credentials underscore his capability to excel in this pivotal role. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Abuja and a Master’s degree in Management Information Systems from the University of Espoo, Finland. Additionally, he has earned numerous professional certifications from world-renowned institutions, including:

•London Graduate School: Business Management

•AIRBUS SLC: Core Skilled Engineer and Programmer

•Certified SALTO Engineer: Spain

•Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

These certifications reflect his commitment to continuous learning and staying ahead of global trends in technology and management.

Hon. Olushola Olofin’s appointment comes at a critical time for the NSITF, an organization tasked with providing social insurance to Nigeria’s workforce. His extensive expertise in ICT and management will undoubtedly drive the modernization of the NSITF’s operations, ensuring efficient service delivery and increased accessibility. His leadership will foster innovation, strengthen transparency, and enhance the Fund’s impact on Nigerian workers and employers alike.

As a forward-thinking leader with a proven track record of excellence, Hon. Olofin is poised to transform the NSITF into a world-class institution, setting new benchmarks for social security administration in Nigeria. With his wealth of experience, strategic acumen, and passion for service, the NSITF is on the cusp of a brighter, more impactful future.

The Nigerian workforce can look forward to enhanced trust, efficiency, and innovation under the capable leadership of Hon. Olushola Olofin.