NIPR, FRSC SEAL STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP TO ADVANCE PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AND CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT

0

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has commended the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for its remarkable institutional transformation, particularly the milestones recorded in the digitisation of the Corps’ operations, describing the achievements as a clear demonstration of visionary leadership, innovation and commitment to service excellence.

The commendation came when the President and Chairman of Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Dr. Ike Neliaku, fnipr, led a high powered delegation of the Institute on a courtesy visit to the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, mni, at the National Headquarters of the Corps in Abuja.

Dr. Neliaku applauded the Corps Marshal for driving strategic reforms that have strengthened operational efficiency, enhanced service delivery and elevated the reputation of the Corps. He reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to partnering with FRSC in the areas of professional training, executive development and capacity building to further consolidate the Corps’ transformation agenda.

Responding, the Corps Marshal expressed appreciation to the NIPR leadership for the recognition and confidence reposed in the Corps. He noted that professionalism, continuous learning and strategic communication remain fundamental pillars of his administration’s vision for a more responsive and globally respected road safety institution. He described the proposed collaboration as a strategic investment in human capital that will further equip personnel with the requisite knowledge, skills and ethical orientation required to meet the evolving demands of public service.

At the end of the meeting, both organisations agreed to establish a strategic framework for sustained collaboration, with emphasis on staff training, professional certification, knowledge exchange and other mutually beneficial initiatives.

The partnership is another manifestation of the Corps Marshal’s topnotch commitment to institutional excellence, workforce development and the continuous entrenchment of professionalism as the bedrock of effective service delivery.

Signed:

Osondu Ohaeri Fnipr, Fcai
Deputy Corps Commander
Corps Public Education Officer
Federal Road Safety Corps
Headquarters, Abuja
cpeo@frsc.gov.ng
info@frsc.gov.ng

2 July, 2026.

FRSC, NITT FORGE HISTORIC ALLIANCE TO REDEFINE TRANSPORT TRAINING, RESEARCH AND ROAD SAFETY IN NIGERIA

0

In a landmark move set to reshape the future of Nigeria’s transport ecosystem, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), Zaria, today signed a far reaching Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on advanced training, capacity development, research and innovation.

The historic agreement, executed by the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, and the Director General of NITT, Dr. Bayero Farah, marks the beginning of a transformative partnership designed to raise professional standards, strengthen institutional capacity and position Nigeria’s transport sector on the global stage.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Corps Marshal described the occasion as a defining milestone in the history of Nigeria’s road transport sector, noting that the coming together of two foremost institutions represents a bold commitment to building a safer, smarter and more efficient transportation system.

He explained that the partnership would deepen collaboration in specialised training, research, technology, driver training, knowledge exchange and human capital development. According to him, FRSC’s longstanding collaboration with NITT has already yielded remarkable results, but the formalisation of the relationship through the MoU opens an entirely new chapter of innovation and institutional excellence.

The Corps Marshal further stated that the partnership would significantly strengthen research capabilities, modernise driver training centres, enhance ICT-driven learning, and produce globally competitive transport professionals equipped to address emerging mobility and road safety challenges. He emphasised that the agreement is not merely a ceremonial document but an actionable framework for immediate implementation, capable of accelerating reforms across Nigeria’s transport sector.

In his remarks, the Director General of NITT, Dr. Bayero Farah, commended the Federal Road Safety Corps for its visionary leadership and relentless commitment throughout the negotiation process, describing the Corps’ dedication as instrumental to the successful conclusion of the agreement.

He stated that the central objective of the MoU is to ensure that transport education, professional training and research in Nigeria are fully aligned with global best practices, thereby producing world-class manpower capable of driving sustainable national development.

The ceremony was witnessed by key stakeholders, including the Chief Executive Officer of AAI, Mr. Ahmed Abdelhafaz, and the Chairman of AAI, Mr. Ejike Njeze, among others, whose presence further amplifies the strategic importance of the collaboration and the growing confidence of both local and international partners in Nigeria’s transport reform agenda.

Signed:

Osondu Ohaeri Fnipr, Fcai
Deputy Corps Commander
Corps Public Education Officer
Federal Road Safety Corps
Headquarters, Abuja
cpeo@frsc.gov.ng
info@frsc.gov.ng

30 June, 2026.

BEYOND CAPITAL: DG NITDA SAYS AI, REGTECH WILL DEFINE NIGERIA’S BANKING FUTURE

0

The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has said the next phase of growth for Nigeria’s banking sector will be driven less by capital accumulation and more by the ability of financial institutions to build digital trust through artificial intelligence (AI), regulatory technology (RegTech) and cyber resilience.
Speaking during a panel session titled “The Efficiency Frontier – AI, RegTech and Cyber Resilience” at the Future of Banking Nigeria Summit organised by CNBC Africa in Lagos, Inuwa argued that while Nigeria’s banking industry has successfully weathered major reforms over the past two decades, the emerging threats confronting the sector require a different approach.
He noted that the industry has repeatedly demonstrated resilience through landmark milestones such as the 2005 banking consolidation, the 2009 banking reforms and the ongoing recapitalisation exercise. According to him, the priority has now shifted from simply raising capital to ensuring that such capital is protected and sustained in an increasingly digital economy.
“Today’s question is no longer whether we can raise capital, but whether we can protect, preserve and grow that capital in the digital era. Trust has become the foundation of modern banking, and that trust must be built on resilient digital infrastructure and effective regulation,” he said.
Inuwa observed that digital channels have become the primary point of interaction between banks and customers, making technology resilience, cybersecurity and uninterrupted service delivery essential to maintaining public confidence in the financial system.
He described artificial intelligence as a strategic tool capable of transforming banking operations by improving productivity, strengthening decision-making, boosting revenue and delivering personalised financial services that reflect the expectations of digitally connected customers.
The DG also highlighted the growing importance of regulatory technology, saying its adoption can simplify compliance, lower operational costs, improve transparency and strengthen governance across financial institutions.
According to him, effective regulation must evolve alongside innovation. He explained that NITDA combines formal regulatory instruments with collaborative, innovation-friendly approaches that allow emerging technologies to develop while regulators establish appropriate standards and safeguards.
“Technology evolves much faster than traditional regulation. Regulators must work closely with innovators to create enabling frameworks that encourage innovation while protecting consumers and maintaining market confidence,” he said.
Using Nigeria’s thriving fintech ecosystem as an example, Inuwa said technology has fundamentally changed the delivery of financial services by enabling customers to open accounts, access banking products and carry out transactions remotely without visiting physical branches.
He further called for closer collaboration among regulators to improve access to finance for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). He explained that AI-powered credit assessment and digital financial management tools can help financial institutions better understand business performance, reduce lending risks and expand credit to underserved enterprises.
On responsible AI adoption, Inuwa disclosed that NITDA’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy provides a framework for deploying AI across critical sectors in partnership with sector regulators, including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for financial services.
He added that the Agency is also developing National Standards for Sovereign Cloud infrastructure and data classification to strengthen Nigeria’s digital sovereignty and ensure that sensitive national and financial data remain adequately protected.
Inuwa concluded that deeper collaboration among regulators, technology innovators and financial institutions will be critical to building a secure, resilient and globally competitive financial ecosystem that supports sustainable economic growth.

FIRST LADY COMMISSIONS IT ACADEMY, CLINIC, OTHER PROJECTS IN HADEJIA

0

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Monday commissioned the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Academy, alongside a modern clinic and dialysis centre named in her honour, describing the projects as “clear evidence of the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, expanding access to quality healthcare, and investing in the future of the young.”
The commissioning took place in Hadejia, Jigawa State, where Senator Tinubu emphasised that the state-of-the-art clinic would bring “relief and hope to many patients and their families in Hadejia, neighbouring communities, and beyond.”
She added that the academy represents President Tinubu’s dedication to human capital development and educational excellence, which secures “a better tomorrow” for Nigeria’s children.
In addition to the health and education projects, Senator Tinubu also launched the National Food Bank Programme, a deliberate and sustainable response to food insecurity and malnutrition among vulnerable households. The initiative is designed to ensure that children under six, pregnant women, and lactating mothers have access to nutritious food, directly advancing President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on food security and improved health outcomes.
The programme is being implemented through a strategic partnership between the Office of the First Lady, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, and the Bank of Agriculture. According to Senator Tinubu, the initiative will “build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria” by safeguarding the health and future of its most vulnerable citizens.
The clinic and dialysis centre were built and fully equipped by FutureMap Foundation and eHealth Africa, in honour of the First Lady’s passion for uplifting underserved communities and vulnerable people.
The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Academy was established with the support of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), underscoring the administration’s commitment to innovation and education.
Both projects are designed to work hand in hand. The academy, with its fabrication laboratory and advanced learning facilities, will support the clinic by developing prototypes of body organs — especially kidneys — to aid research, early detection, and prevention of chronic kidney disease. This synergy ensures that education directly fuels healthcare innovation, creating practical solutions to pressing medical challenges.
The First Lady, who expressed deep appreciation to the NITDA Director-General for the honour, re-emphasised the benefits of the academy and the clinic saying: “We are grateful for these honours done to us. Thank you. These projects are clear evidence of the state and federal government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, expanding access to quality healthcare, and investing in education and the future of young people.”
The First Lady further highlighted that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Academy represents the President’s commitment to human capital development and educational excellence. She added, “By investing in the education of our children today, we are securing a better tomorrow for them.”
While speaking on the National Food Bank Programme, the First Lady described it as “a deliberate and sustainable response to food insecurity and malnutrition among vulnerable households in Nigeria.”
She stressed that the initiative is designed to ensure that children under the age of six, pregnant women, and lactating mothers have access to nutritious food, adding that “this programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, advancing food security, improving healthcare outcomes, and building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.”
She explained that the programme is being implemented through a strategic partnership between the Office of the First Lady, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, and the Bank of Agriculture.
Recalling its rollout, she noted that, “We have launched the National Community Food Trust Fund and inaugurated the Board of Trustees in Abuja on 2 April 2026. On 27 April, we conducted the first launch in Borno State for the North-East Zone, and today, by the grace of God, we are launching the second National Community Food Bank here in Jigawa State for the North-West Zone.”
Commending the swift implementation in Borno, she observed that the programme has already enrolled 560 beneficiaries and reached 468 vulnerable children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers in less than two months. “This impressive achievement gives me confidence that Jigawa State will set even higher standards for others to follow,” she declared.
The First Lady emphasised that Jigawa’s agrarian potential makes it a strategic choice for the North-West launch and called for “sustained collaboration to build a transparent, accountable, and efficient food bank system that reaches vulnerable households across Nigeria.”
Earlier in his remarks, the Jigawa State Governor, Mallam Umar A. Namadi, expressed deep appreciation to Senator Oluremi Tinubu and all distinguished guests, noting that their presence in the state for the North-West launch of the National Community Food Bank Programme was “a strong demonstration of solidarity with families who need support and a reaffirmation of our shared duty to protect the vulnerable segment of our population.”
He emphasised that the event served as a reminder of the duty at the heart of public service — ensuring that every child’s health, survival, and development are safeguarded.
Governor Namadi described the initiative as “a timely intervention that will not only bring food resources closer to the people who need them most but will also contribute to better nutrition indices among our children.”
He acknowledged the vision and compassion of the First Lady, stressing that the food bank programme addresses both immediate needs and the long-term well-being of children. He added that the programme provides a platform for nutrition and support to vulnerable households through partnerships with community leaders, farmers, civil society organisations, and the private sector.
Linking the initiative to constitutional responsibility, the Governor cited Section 16, Subsection 2 of Nigeria’s Constitution, which mandates the government to provide “suitable and adequate food for all citizens.”
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fulfilling this responsibility through national food security and food bank programmes. He further explained that Jigawa State had already established strong policy foundations through its State Food and Nutrition Policy and State Social Protection Policy, which support targeted nutrition assistance for mothers and children. According to him, the food bank initiative “strongly complements our existing commitments, serving as an effective mechanism for delivering direct benefits to vulnerable families.”
Highlighting progress already made, Governor Namadi pointed to Jigawa’s homegrown nutrition programme implemented across 300 communities, which screened over 240,000 children in 2024 and 382,000 in 2025. He noted that the programme successfully transformed thousands of children from moderate acute malnutrition to healthy status, while 600 women were trained to produce locally made nutritious formulas such as Tom Brown.
He assured that North-West governors would give the food bank programme the support it deserves, pledging to provide storage and distribution facilities, strengthen food centres, and ensure transparency and accountability in reaching vulnerable households. “A nutritious meal for a pregnant woman can safeguard two lives, and nutritious food for a child can support learning and growth,” he said, calling for diligence and compassion from all stakeholders to ensure lasting impact.
The newly commissioned projects in Hadejia, especially the President Bola Ahmed Academy and the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Clinic represent a deliberate effort to integrate advanced technological innovation with critical healthcare delivery. The Academy is structured as a sustainability-oriented institution, designed to transform technical knowledge into practical community solutions.
Its infrastructure includes a fabrication laboratory and maker space for prototyping health wearables and prosthetics, an innovation lab with AI-driven tutoring, and a pitch space for start-ups and research ideas. Complementary spaces such as the atrium, auditorium, and residential hostel ensure that the academy functions not only as a training ground but also as a hub for collaboration, digital upskilling, and community engagement.
The clinic serves as the healthcare counterpart to the academy’s innovation ecosystem. It houses a dedicated dialysis centre to address the region’s burden of chronic kidney disease, alongside a fully equipped operating theatre and maternity rooms for safe maternal care. Every ward is integrated with continuous piped oxygen, ensuring readiness for respiratory emergencies, while the facility’s reliance on renewable energy systems guarantees uninterrupted power for critical medical equipment. This design reflects a strong emphasis on resilience, sustainability, and accessibility, bringing life-saving services closer to underserved communities.
Together, the academy and clinic form a symbiotic model in which education and healthcare reinforce each other. The academy’s fabrication laboratory is expected to provide diagnostic tools and organ prototypes, while the clinic applies these innovations in real-world patient care. This collaboration offers a pathway for early detection and prevention of chronic illnesses, particularly kidney disease, while also strengthening Nigeria’s broader health technology ecosystem. The integration of infrastructure, innovation, and medical service delivery positions Hadejia as a potential model for how technology and healthcare can be combined to address pressing community needs.
It may be recalled that last week, the President launched the establishment of the National Health Technology and Data Analytics Office, a move expected to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity for medical research, data-driven healthcare delivery, and the integration of technology into public health systems.
The event was attended by all seven governors from the North-West geopolitical zone and their spouses; the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hajiya Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure; the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad; and the Director-General of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Muyi Aina, who represented the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate. Also present were the NITDA Director-General Kashifu as well as other government functionaries and traditional rulers.

NADDC DG Meets Minister of Finance to Push Fiscal Incentives for Nigeria’s Automotive and EV Growth

0

The Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council, NADDC, Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Finance, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, on Tuesday, 1st July 2026, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

The engagement centered on fiscal incentives and strategic collaboration required to accelerate the development of Nigeria’s automotive industry, with a strong focus on Green mobility promotions, sustainable industrial growth and local component manufacturing,

The NADDC DG seized the opportunity to reaffirm Council’s commitment to working with the Ministry of Finance and other stakeholders to create an enabling environment for innovation, knowledge and technical excellence across the automotive value chain.

This collaboration with the Ministry of Finance is critical to making Nigeria competitive in the global automotive space. With the right fiscal incentives and a clear implementation plan, the auto industry can unlock jobs, reduce import dependency, and position Nigeria as a leading hub for Automotive production in West Africa.

NITDA, TIKTOK PARTNER TO EMPOWER SMEs THROUGH DIGITAL COMMERCE TRAININGLaunch Digital Commerce Labs Initiative to Deepen Digital Inclusion and Economic Growth Lagos, Nigeria – June 18, 2026

0

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and TikTok have launched a strategic partnership aimed at equipping Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with digital commerce skills, tools, and opportunities to compete effectively in the digital economy.
The partnership was unveiled at the launch of the TikTok Digital Commerce Labs Programme for SMEs, held in Lagos, where stakeholders from government, the private sector, entrepreneurship support organisations, and the digital ecosystem gathered to explore innovative pathways for empowering Nigerian businesses through technology.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, represent at the event by Dr Aristotle Onumo, Director Stakeholder Management and Partnerships, described digital commerce as one of the most powerful drivers of economic inclusion and business growth in the modern economy, noting that access to digital skills has become increasingly critical for the survival and competitiveness of businesses.
According to the NITDA boss, the future of commerce is increasingly digital, and entrepreneurs who embrace technology will be better positioned to access larger markets, increase productivity, and create sustainable wealth.
He observed that while Nigeria is blessed with millions of hardworking and innovative entrepreneurs, many small businesses still lack the digital capabilities required to fully participate in the opportunities offered by the digital economy.
“Today, a young entrepreneur with a smartphone can reach customers beyond geographical boundaries, build a brand, market products globally, and create economic opportunities that were previously unimaginable. Our responsibility is to ensure that every entrepreneur, regardless of location, has access to the digital skills and tools needed to succeed in this new economy,” he said.
A major highlight of the event was the announcement of a collaborative programme between NITDA and TikTok designed to extend digital commerce training to SMEs across the country.
As part of the initiative, TikTok has committed an initial investment of approximately US$20,000 to support a pilot Train-the-Trainer Programme, which will leverage NITDA’s Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) networks to deliver digital commerce training to entrepreneurs, particularly those in remote and underserved communities.
Inuwa commended TikTok for its commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and digital inclusion in Nigeria, describing the initiative as a practical example of how technology platforms can contribute meaningfully to economic empowerment and national development.
He noted that the collaboration aligns with NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), particularly the Agency’s commitment to achieving widespread digital literacy, promoting innovation, supporting entrepreneurship, and fostering inclusive economic growth.
The DG stressed that technology should not merely be viewed as a tool for communication and entertainment but as a platform for creating opportunities, generating income, and transforming lives.
“Technology is most powerful when it empowers the least connected, creates opportunities for the underserved, and transforms potential into prosperity,” he stated.
Industry stakeholders at the event described the initiative as timely, especially at a period when businesses are increasingly leveraging digital platforms to connect with customers, expand operations, and access new markets.
The TikTok Digital Commerce Labs Programme is expected to strengthen digital capabilities among SMEs, improve access to digital opportunities, and contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy by enabling entrepreneurs to harness the power of technology for business development.
The launch reinforces NITDA’s vision to building a digitally empowered Nation fostering inclusive economic development through technological innovation where individuals, startups, and businesses can leverage technology to create value, generate employment, and contribute to national prosperity.
As Nigeria continues its journey towards becoming a leading digital economy in Africa, collaborations such as the NITDA-TikTok partnership are expected to play a significant role in empowering citizens, fostering innovation, and expanding economic opportunities for millions of Nigerians.

FRSC CONDUCTS LARGEST DIGITAL PROMOTION EXERCISE, ADVANCES OVER 10,005 PERSONNEL IN LINE WITH CORPS MARSHAL’S CAREER PROGRESSION POLICY

0

In a landmark demonstration of his dedication to staff welfare, institutional growth, and career development, the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has through diligent deployment of modern technology, successfully overseen the conduct of the 2026 Promotion Exercise for over 10,005 personnel, comprising 3597 Intermediate Rank Officers and 6,408 Junior Officers across the country.

The promotion exercise, one of the largest in the history of the Corps, was driven by cutting-edge Information and Communication Technology (ICT) platforms deliberately deployed to guarantee transparency, fairness, credibility, and inclusiveness throughout the process. The technology driven approach eliminated bottlenecks, enhanced operational efficiency, and ensured that every eligible personnel was provided with an equal opportunity to compete based on merit, competence, and performance.

To ensure transparency, fairness, and compliance with established guidelines, the exercise which began across the 12 Zonal Commands, with holistic deployment of monitoring cameras on 14 June, 2026, is being supervised by representatives of the Corps Marshal; with observers from the Office of the Secretary to the Federation and Federal Character Commission, monitoring the process in line with the Corps Promotion Policy and Federal Character Principle.

A notable feature of the exercise was the seamless integration of officers pursuing various academic and professional development programmes across different institutions outside the shores of the country.

Through innovative ICT deployment, personnel on further studies were able to participate remotely without disrupting their educational pursuits, further autheticating the Corps Marshal’s determination to ensure that no eligible staff member was disadvantaged on account of self-development or geographical location.

The exercise further reflects the Corps Marshal’s strategic vision of building a highly motivated, professional, and future-ready workforce where diligence, commitment, innovation, and excellence are appropriately recognised and rewarded.

By placing career progression at the heart of his leadership agenda, Shehu Mohammed continues to deepen staff confidence in the system while fostering a culture of productivity, accountability, and healthy competition within the Corps.

Under his leadership, FRSC has continued to witness unprecedented reforms aimed at improving personnel welfare, strengthening institutional capacity, and leveraging technology to enhance service delivery. The successful conduct of the 2026 Promotion Exercise stands as yet another proof to his resolve to institutionalise best practices and create a modern, digitally driven organisation that prioritises the aspirations and growth of its workforce.

As the Corps continues its transformation journey, the promotion exercise serves as a powerful reminder that hard work, professionalism, and dedication remain the pathways to advancement within the Corps, while reaffirming the Corps Marshal’s enduring commitment to building a workforce that is inspired, empowered, and positioned to deliver on its mandate of creating safer roads for all Nigerians.

Signed:
Osondu Ohaeri Fnipr, Fcai
Deputy Corps Commander
Corps Public Education Officer
Federal Road Safety Corps
Headquarters, Abuja
cpeo@frsc.gov.ng
info@frsc.gov.ng

19 June, 2026.

FIRST LADY COMMISSIONS NITDA ICT CENTRE IN BENUE, EXPANDS DIGITAL INCLUSION DRIVE

0

The Federal Government’s commitment to promoting digital inclusion received a major boost as the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commissioned the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Community IT Centre in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the First Lady described the facility as a strategic investment in human capital development and digital empowerment, aimed at equipping citizens with the skills and opportunities required to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

She commended NITDA for its partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative in expanding access to digital infrastructure and opportunities, particularly in underserved communities. According to her, the IT Centre in Ihugh is the fourth facility established through the collaboration, following similar projects in Bauchi, Kwara, Oyo states, among others.

Senator Tinubu noted that the centres are designed to provide access to digital literacy, innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities, especially for women and young people. She urged residents of the community to utilise the facility effectively and ensure its sustainability for the benefit of future generations.

As part of efforts to support economic empowerment at the grassroots, the First Lady also announced a N100 million grant for 2,000 women petty traders in the area, reaffirming the Renewed Hope Initiative’s commitment to improving livelihoods and fostering inclusive development.

In his address, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, described the IT Centre as a catalyst for transformation that would enable residents to acquire digital skills, access emerging technologies and participate meaningfully in the digital economy.

He explained that the centre would serve as a hub for learning, innovation and enterprise development, providing opportunities for students, entrepreneurs and farmers to leverage technology for productivity and economic growth.

According to him, digital tools can significantly enhance agricultural activities by providing access to data-driven solutions such as weather forecasting, soil analysis and precision farming techniques, helping farmers improve output and profitability.

The NITDA Director General also highlighted the agency’s broader interventions in Benue State, including the establishment of a Community ICT Centre in Wannune, nine Digital Learning Centres across the state, and the training of more than 13,300 residents through various digital literacy and skills development programmes.

Governor Hyacinth Alia, who also spoke at the event, described the project as a landmark intervention that would open new opportunities for education, innovation, entrepreneurship and employment. He assured stakeholders of the state’s commitment to providing the infrastructure and support necessary to ensure the centre’s long-term sustainability.

The commissioning of the Ihugh Community IT Centre underscores ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide, expand access to technology and create pathways for inclusive economic growth and development across Nigeria.

NITDA, NISO EXPLORE PARTNERSHIP TO STRENGTHEN DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN NIGERIA’S POWER INDUSTRY

0

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) are set to collaborate on initiatives aimed at accelerating digital transformation in Nigeria’s energy sector and enhancing the infrastructure needed to drive the country’s digital economy.
During a strategic meeting between the two organisations, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, emphasised the importance of reliable electricity as a key driver of digital innovation, economic growth and national development.
He noted that as businesses and institutions increasingly embrace digital technologies, the power sector remains fundamental to sustaining digital progress, adding that access to stable electricity is essential for the growth of emerging technologies and digital services.
Inuwa commended NISO’s commitment to embedding technology into its operations from inception, describing the organisation’s approach as a forward-looking organisation capable of delivering long-term value to the electricity industry.
According to him, the rapid expansion of data centres, artificial intelligence and other digital infrastructure globally has made dependency on power supply a critical factor for attracting investment.
He stated that Nigeria stands to benefit significantly from the growing digital economy if it continues to improve electricity reliability while deploying technology to boost transparency, efficiency and accountability across the power ecosystem.
The NITDA DG also reiterated that the agency’s role extends beyond information technology regulation, noting that NITDA is actively supporting digital transformation across multiple sectors of the economy.
“Technology has become the backbone of modern development. By embracing digitalisation, organisations can improve operational efficiency, strengthen service delivery and unlock new opportunities for growth,” he said.
Drawing on NITDA’s experience in supporting public sector reforms, Inuwa noted that the agency has assisted institutions such as the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council with digital transformation initiatives and is prepared to extend similar support to NISO.
To facilitate implementation, he proposed the establishment of a joint technical team to identify priority projects and develop a practical framework for collaboration.
Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NISO, Engr Abdu Bello Mohammed, described the engagement as a significant step towards building a technology enabled electricity management system.
He explained that NISO was created following the unbundling of the Transmission Company of Nigeria and is responsible for system operations, electricity market administration and power system planning, while the Transmission Service Provider oversees the transmission infrastructure.
Mohammed said the organisation plays a central role in coordinating Nigeria’s electricity network, ensuring the efficient movement of power from generating stations through the transmission network to distribution companies while maintaining system stability.
As part of efforts to improve operational efficiency and visibility, he disclosed that NISO has begun deploying Internet of Things (IoT) enabled meters at strategic points across the electricity value chain.
The initiative, he explained, is designed to provide real-time operational data from generation, transmission and distribution interfaces, pending the completion of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition/Energy Management System (SCADA/EMS) project.
He noted that improved access to real-time data would enhance decision-making, strengthen grid management and contribute to the overall reliability of the national electricity system.
Mohammed further expressed optimism that collaboration with NITDA would provide NISO with valuable insights and expertise to support its digitalisation agenda.


The proposed partnership is expected to enhance innovation, improve transparency and create a more enabling environment for investments that depend on reliable digital and energy infrastructure.

FG Commissions NADDC Automotive Training Centre to Drive Skills Development and Industrial Growth.

0

The Federal Government on June 11, 2026, commissioned the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) Automotive Training Centre (ATC) in Gusau, Zamfara State, and graduated 100 youths on Specialized Mechatronics Training Programme, reinforcing its commitment to skills development, youth empowerment and the growth of Nigeria’s automotive industry.

Established by NADDC in partnership with PADSON Industry Limited and the Zamfara State Government, the Centre is designed to serve as a hub for automotive skills acquisition, technology transfer, innovation and workforce development across the North-West region.

Commissioning the facility, the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, described the project as a reflection of the Federal Government’s commitment to industrialisation, local content development and the Nigeria First Policy. He noted that the Centre would create opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship and technical advancement within the automotive sector.

His Excellency, Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Dauda Lawal commended NADDC for bringing the initiative to Zamfara State,describing the Centre as a strategic investment in human capital development, job creation and economic growth. He added that the project aligns with both the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the state’s development priorities.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the NADDC Governing Board, Chief Emma Eneukwu, said the Centre would provide valuable training opportunities for youths across the North-West, helping to promote entrepreneurship, economic inclusion and sustainable employment.

In his welcome address, the Director-General of NADDC, Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, stated that the Centre underscores the Council’s commitment to building a skilled workforce to support Nigeria’s automotive transformation. He noted that the facility is equipped with modern training tools and equipment to provide practical, industry-driven learning for technicians, artisans, students and automotive entrepreneurs.

The event also featured the graduation of 100 youths who successfully completed a specialised mechatronics training programme on the maintenance and repair of PMS and CNG-powered tricycles and motorcycles. Certificates were presented to the participants, marking another milestone in NADDC’s efforts to promote skill acquisition, technical education, new energy adoption and sustainable economic opportunities for Nigerian youths.