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.

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.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun Area 1 Command, has handed over illicit drugs worth N117.59 million to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The Comptroller of the command, Mr James Ojo, disclosed this during the handing over of the drugs to Mr Olusegun Adeyeye, the Commander of NDLEA, Idiroko Special Area Command, in Abeokuta, Ogun, on Friday.

Ojo said the customs handed over the seized cannabis and tramadol tablets to the Idiroko Special Command for further investigation in line with the standard operating procedures and inter-agency collaboration.

He said the illicit drugs were seized  in various strategic locations between January and November 21, 2024, in Ogun State.

He added that the illicit drugs were abandoned at various locations, including the Abeokuta axis, the Agbawo/Igankoto area of Yewa North Local Government Area, and Imeko Afton axis.

Ojo said that the seizure of the cannabis sativa and tramaling tablets, another brand of tramadol, was made possible through credible intelligence and strategic operations of the customs personnel.

“The successful interception of these dangerous substances would not have been possible without the robust collaboration and support from our intelligence units, local informants and sister agencies.

“These landmark operations are testament to the unwavering dedication of the NCS to safeguard the health and well-being of our citizens and uphold the rule of law,” he said.

He said the seizures comprised 403 sacks and 6,504 parcels, weighing 7,217.7 kg and 362 packs of tramaling tablets of 225mg each, with a total Duty Paid Value of N117,587,405,00.

He described the height of illicit drugs smuggling in the recent time as worrisome.

This, he said, underscores the severity of drug trafficking within the borders.

“Between Oct. 13 and Nov. 12 alone, operatives intercepted a total of 1,373 parcels of cannabis sativa, weighing 1,337kg and 362 packs of tramaling tablets of 225mg each,” he said.

Ojo said the seizures had  disrupted the supply chain of illicit drugs, thereby mitigating the risks those substances posed to the youth, families and communities.

He lauded the synergy between its command, security agencies and other stakeholders that led to the remarkable achievements.

Ojo also commended the Comptroller General of NCS for creating an enabling environment for the command to achieve the success.

Responding, Adeyeye, applauded the customs for achieving the feat.

Adeyeye pledged to continue to collaborate with the customs to fight against illicit trade and drug trafficking in the state.