ECOWAS, EALA Forge Closer Ties to Foster Economic Integration In Africa.

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July 21, 2023

The ECOWAS Parliament and the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) have set forth a collaborative vision to foster Economic integration by facilitating the visa-free movement of people, thus propelling business, trade, and investment across the African continent.

The plan for increased cooperation between the two regional legislative bodies was revealed during a courtesy visit paid by Rt. Hon. Ntakirutimana Joseph, the Speaker of EALA and his East African Counterparts, to Rt. Hon. Sidie Mohamed Tunis, the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, in Abuja on Thursday.

East African Legislative Assembly Members with the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament during a courtesy visit to the ECOWAS Parliament.

Both sides expressed their commitment to working out the necessary frameworks for legislative action that will promote seamless integration.

According to Hon. Sidie Tunis, Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, “The aim of ECOWAS is integration, of which free movement plays a pivotal role, if the two regions can collaborate and work together, considering the fact that we represent the people, we believe we can achieve this dream for Africa to become one”.

During a press conference held after a productive closed-door meeting, Hon. Joseph emphasized the significance of building an Africa where unrestricted movement and business can flourish. He stressed the potential for both regions to work together in unity to achieve this shared dream of a more integrated Africa.

Despite facing challenges such as economic crises and political issues within some member countries, Hon. Joseph highlighted that these obstacles could be overcome through mediation and support from ECOWAS, fostering the exchange of ideas and knowledge.

Accompanied by Dr. Mlozi Shogo, a member of the Tanzanian parliament, Hon. Joseph also took the opportunity to seek the support of the ECOWAS Parliament for the candidature of Dr. Tulia Ackson, the Speaker of the Tanzanian Parliament, in her bid for the Speakership of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).

Speaking alongside Hon. Joseph during the press conference, Speaker Tunis emphasized that free movement is a fundamental aspect of collaboration between the two regions. He believed that resolutions could be reached to enhance the mobility of people between West Africa and East Africa, ultimately leading to a more united Africa.

The esteemed guests also engaged in discussions with Dr. Omar Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, at the ECOWAS headquarters, further solidifying their deliberations.

Regarding the candidature of Dr. Ackson, Speaker Tunis revealed that the African Union has already endorsed her, expressing their support as Africans who wish to see her represent the continent in the IPU. This endorsement also received praise during their visit to the Nigerian National Assembly, where the delegation was received by Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu.

Deputy Speaker Kalu stated that the visit marked a significant step forward for Africa in pursuing closer collaboration for mutual interests and enabling a unified voice for the continent. He stressed that unity would enable Africa to tackle pressing issues like climate change and human trafficking, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

In conclusion, the delegation offered words of encouragement to Dr. Tulia Ackson in her aspirations to become the Speaker of the IPU, recognizing her as an emblem of women’s empowerment and progress not only in Africa but globally. With the determination of both ECOWAS and EALA to foster integration and cooperation, a more interconnected and prosperous Africa seems closer than ever.

FIRS Sets New Record with N5.5 Trillion Tax Revenue in First Half of 2023

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Favour Bassey Otu

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July 20, 2023

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The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has achieved a milestone by announcing a remarkable tax revenue collection of N5.5 trillion for the first half of 2023, covering January to June.

This unprecedented achievement marks the highest tax revenue collection ever recorded by the Service in any six-month period of a fiscal year.

The news was shared through a statement issued by Johannes Oluwatobi Wojuola, the Special Assistant to the Executive Chairman for Media and Communications. During a presentation of the 2023-2024 tax revenue outlook to the National Economic Council at a meeting held on July 20th, 2023, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Mr. Muhammad Nami, Executive Chairman of the FIRS, proudly announced this significant accomplishment.

According to the 2023 Half-Year Collection Report included in the presentation, the FIRS surpassed its target for the first half of the year, achieving over one hundred percent of its N5.3 trillion mid-year target.

The report further revealed that tax revenue collected from the oil sector during the period amounted to N2.03 trillion, surpassing the target of N2.3 trillion, while non-oil tax collection reached N3.76 trillion, exceeding the target of N2.98 trillion.

Mr. Nami emphasized that the excellent performance was largely due to improved voluntary tax compliance, facilitated by the automation of FIRS’ tax administrative processes. Notably, the Service collected a record-breaking N1.65 trillion in tax revenues in June 2023, the highest-ever for a single month.

Despite facing challenges such as the impact of currency redesign and the 2023 General Elections on the economy during the first and second quarters of the year, Mr. Nami commended the organization’s “good head start” and expressed optimism about meeting the yearly target.

The FIRS Executive Chairman credited the achievements to enhanced voluntary tax compliance by taxpayers, the continued improvement of automation in tax administration processes, including updated VAT filing procedures, and persistent engagement with stakeholders in both the formal and informal sectors of the economy.

Looking ahead, Mr. Nami assured the nation of better days ahead in terms of tax revenue collection, anticipating improved performance in the second half of the year. He expressed confidence in the positive impact of the current government’s policies on the economy and the ongoing enhancements to tax administration processes.

This remarkable feat comes after the FIRS achieved a total collection of N10.1 trillion in 2022, setting a new record as the highest tax collection ever made by the agency in a single year.

Nigeria Poised to Lead Africa’s Digital Technology Revolution, Says NITDA DG

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Favour Bassey Otu

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July 20, 2023

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The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Inuwa Kashifu Abdullahi, has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential to become the leading digital technology hub in Africa.

With its youthful and tech-savvy population, along with favorable legislation and policies, Nigeria is well-positioned to drive the growth of the tech ecosystem in the continent.

“Nigeria’s tech prowess ignites a flame of innovation that illuminates Africa’s path towards a prosperous digital future, fostering job creation and driving economic growth across the continent. Leveraging Nigeria’s youthful and tech-savvy population, favorable legislations, and policies, the country is well positioned to become Africa’s leading digital technology hub” – He said.

This statement was made during the launch of Global Tech Africa (GTA), an initiative by the Future Map Foundation, implemented in collaboration with Ascend Studios Foundation, NITDA, and the U.S. Consulate General, Lagos.

The GTA Conference aims to unite African and international tech stakeholders, unlocking growth opportunities and nurturing the tech ecosystem in Africa. Distinguished partners, including Business Sweden, Venture Garden Group, RivExcel Health, and renowned Tech Giants worldwide, are also supporting the initiative.

Africa is poised to play a vital role in the global tech ecosystem, offering innovation, talent, and new market prospects in mobile technology, e-commerce, fintech, ag-tech, and the digital economy. Emphasizing the impact of GTA in Africa, NITDA’s Director General, Inuwa Kashifu Abdullahi, underscores Nigeria’s tech prowess, igniting innovation that illuminates Africa’s path to a prosperous digital future, fostering job creation and driving economic growth across the continent.

The United States has played a key role in creating an enabling environment for Nigeria’s tech ecosystem. The U.S. Mission Nigeria remains committed to promoting partnerships that advance Nigeria’s tech and startup scene, catalyzing technological progress and reinforcing a robust U.S.-Nigeria trade and investment relationship. Nigeria’s rapid recognition as a hub for tech talent and innovation has led global tech companies to acknowledge its potential, and the U.S. Mission is eager to collaborate with both U.S. and Nigerian tech companies to harness this immense opportunity, according to U.S. Consul General Will Stevens.

The GTA Summit, slated for the 25th of July 2023 in Lagos, will bring together 300 tech stakeholders from the private, public, and development sectors. Following the summit, the GTA Conference will take place in Lagos, Nigeria, from the 17th to the 20th of November 2023.

Speaking about the prospects GTA offers to participants, Dr. Inya Lawal, President of Ascend Studios Foundation, and Abdulsalam Umar, COO of Future Map, assert that GTA will garner support from private, public, and development sectors to explore tech infrastructure and investment opportunities, support startups, and promote grants/seed investments. Additionally, GTA will encourage increased participation and growth of Women and Girls in the Tech Ecosystem.

The GTA conference aims to provide a platform for stakeholders, including investors, regulators, consumers, academia, and the general public, to engage in discussions and explore opportunities for collaboration, shaping the future of Africa’s tech landscape. The conference will feature plenary sessions, breakout sessions, pitch competitions, exhibitions, sideline networking, and cocktail sessions.

The summit and conference will also highlight the opportunities presented by the Nigerian Start-Up ACT, offering a meeting forum for investors, regulators, and entrepreneurs to explore investment and global partnership prospects.

GTA will serve as a platform for consumers, enthusiasts, and the general public to engage with technology experts and practitioners, showcasing the latest technology trends in Africa and providing insights into future innovations.

UN, Nigeria Unite for ‘Operation Feed Yourself’ to Tackle Hunger Challenges.

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Favour Bassey Otu

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July 20, 2023

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The United Nations is calling on all Nigerians to embrace the new project ‘Operation Feed Yourself’ by participating in farm estates, farming clusters, and backyard farming. This call was jointly made by the United Nations, the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget, and National Planning, along with other key players during a pre-food system stock-taking event in Abuja, as reported by Adebola Brooksyn.

Food systems are integral to human existence, impacting health, the environment, economies, and cultures. Concerns about achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of zero hunger have prompted urgent action, prompting Nigeria to respond to the United Nations’ call for improving food systems.

At a media engagement during the stock-taking event, Nebeolisa Anako, the Permanent Secretary of Budget and National Planning, and other key stakeholders affirmed that President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on food security reflects the government’s dedication to feeding the nation.

Various obstacles, such as lack of appropriate technology and climate change, hinder food sufficiency in Nigeria. Collaboration with development partners is seen as essential to achieving food security.

To ensure that no one goes to bed hungry, the promotion of dry-season farming through micro and macro irrigation is highly encouraged. By collectively embracing these initiatives, Nigeria aims to bolster its food security and contribute to global efforts to combat hunger

NADDC AND AUTO INDUSTRY KEY PLAYERS HOLD VALIDATION WORKSHOP ON ACTION PLAN FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

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Social Plus Africa

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July 20, 2023

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The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and major Automotive Industry key players are set to position Nigeria among the leading countries in Vehicle Electrification.

The Director General, NADDC, Mr. Jelani Aliyu, MFR, made this known at the validation workshop of the ‘Draft National Action Plan for the Development of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in Nigeria’, held Tuesday 18th July, 2023 at Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.

In his welcome address, the Director General encouraged participants and the general public to embrace advanced technology, because it can be leveraged to uplift the lives of hundreds of millions of the nation’s citizens.

He reiterated the NADDC’s committment to Vehicle Electrification in Nigeria, which has resulted in the local assembly of the Hyundai Kona EV and Jet Motors Electric Buses and Vans.

The Action Plan is dedicated solely on strategic

development of the Vehicle Electrification ecosystem in Nigeria: to provide the necessary fiscal and non fiscal incentives, programs and initiatives aimed at expediting the mass production of Electric Vehicles and development of an effective nationwide charging infrastructure. To also enable the ubiquitous attainability and sustainable ownership of the very many different types of these zero emission forms of transportation by both public and individual end users.

Jelani added that that the Council has demonstrated its dedication to developing applicable advanced solutions with the development of the 100% Solar Powered EV Charging Stations at three universities, UDUS, UNN, UNILAG and at the NADDC Headquarters, Abuja.

Representing the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, the Director, Industry Development Department of the Ministry, Adewale Rasheed, explained that the workshop would guarantee inclusiveness and synergy among stakeholders in the development of the Action Plan.

According to him “This validation workshop will lead to the development of the detailed and comprehensive plan for the development of electrical vehicles in Nigeria”

Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Dr. Bashir Gwandu, stated his agency’s commitment to support and work with the NADDC in applicable research for the development of the Electric Vehicle value chain.

Happy Birthday to Amb. James Momoh JP, MD/CEO of Social Plus Africa Communications Ltd.

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Social Plus Africa

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July 19, 2023

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Happy Birthday to the incredible MD/CEO of Social Plus Africa Communications Ltd Amb. James Momoh JP.

Today, the staff and management of Social Plus Africa Communications Ltd celebrate not only your remarkable achievements but also the remarkable person you are.

At 42 years young, you continue to inspire us with your philanthropy, kindness, and unwavering dedication.

Your commitment to making a positive impact in the world is truly admirable. Through your selfless acts, you have touched the lives of many, bringing hope and happiness to those in need.

MD/CEO, Social Plus Africa Communications Ltd, Amb. James Momoh Jimoh JP.

Your generosity knows no bounds, and your compassion shines brightly in all that you do. Thank you for being a beacon of light in our community.

Not only are you a philanthropist, but you are also a shining example of hard work and dedication.

Your tireless efforts in leading Social Plus Africa have brought about remarkable success. Your vision, determination, and unwavering focus have propelled the company to new heights.

You have shown us that with perseverance, anything is possible.

Beyond your professional achievements, it is your kind and genuine nature that truly sets you apart.

You always have a kind word, a helping hand, and a warm smile for those around you. Your humility and down-to-earth personality make you approachable and loved by all.

You inspire us to be better human beings each day.

As you blow out the candles on your birthday cake, may your heart be filled with joy, love, and happiness.

May this new year of your life bring you even more success, fulfillment, and opportunities to make a difference.

May you continue to touch lives and inspire those around you.

Happy 42nd birthday to a remarkable leader, a philanthropic soul, and a genuinely kind-hearted man.

Cheers to you and all that you have accomplished! Have a fantastic day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Here’s to many more years of success and happiness.

Kogi 2023: Federal High Court dismisses Achimugu’s case against APC, Ododo for lacking in merit.

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Social Plus Africa

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July 18, 2023

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…Says Ododo, Deedat duly resigned, qualified to participate in primary

The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, dismissed a case filed by Abubakar Achimugu against the All Progressives Congress, its Governorship Candidate in Kogi State, Usman Ododo, Ozigi Deedat and INEC for lacking in merit.

Justice Obiora Egwuatu who delivered the judgement in the suit marked “FHC/CS/585/2023: Achimugu v. APC & 3 Ors”, said the cause of action, which arose on April 14, 2023, was not statute barred, but that the Plaintiff’s case was bereft of merit.

Achimugu, who was a governorship aspirant, had sought the disqualification of Ododo and Ozigi Deedat, who came 1st and second during the primary election which held on 14th April 2023, saying that, being persons employed in the Public Service of the Kogi State Government, they did not resign, withdraw or retire before the conduct of the primary election.

Justice Egwuatu, however, held that the 2nd and 3rd defendants duly resigned from their positions in government, even over a period of 30 days before the date of the primaries, hence they were qualified to participate in the primary election.

He said, “Did the 2nd and 3rd Defendants resign as Political Office Holders?
“I have looked at the resignation letters, addressed to the Governor of Kogi State. They were duly received on the 8th of March 2023. The resignation letters became effective from the date of receipt of the letter.”

He noted that the Claimant’s argument that the letters of resignation were not with the APC and INEC was not supported by any law as there was no requirement that same be submitted to INEC or the APC, who are not their employers.

Justice Egwuatu also held that the 30 days required for the resignation of a public servant contained in the Constitution was 30 days before the General Election, not a party’s primary election.

Delivering his judgment, he said, “The election which held on 14th February 2023 was not a general election but a party primary.”

He held that the “the 2nd and 3rd Defendants duly resigned, hence they are qualified to participate in the primary election.”

The suit was therefore dismissed for lacking in merit.

Plaintiff (Achimugu) was represented by Josiah O. Daniel-Ebune Esq; APC was represented by Abdulwahab Muhammed SAN; Ododo, by M.Y. Abdullahi SAN, and INEC, by AA Adeniyi SAN.

FG Confirms First Case of Anthrax Disease Outbreak in Nigeria.

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Favour Bassey Otu

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July 17, 2023

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The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has recently confirmed the outbreak of anthrax in Nigeria, marking the first recorded case of the disease in the country in recent years.

This announcement comes after the ministry had previously warned of the potential incursion of anthrax into Nigeria, following outbreaks in neighboring countries like Ghana.

The permanent secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ernest Umakhihe made the disclosure via a press statement on Monday.

He said “Last week our disease surveillance team reported a suspicion of anthrax in a multi-species animal farm comprising of cattle, sheep, goats and poultry located at Gajiri, along Abuja-Kaduna express way Suleja LGA Niger state”.

It may be recalled that a few weeks ago the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development communicated the risk of incursion of Anthrax into the country, following confirmed outbreaks in Ghana and other countries in West Africa.

In response to the outbreak, the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Niger state government, has taken proactive measures to control and contain the disease.

These measures include quarantining the affected farm, deploying 50,000 doses of anthrax vaccines for ring vaccination of susceptible animals around the infected area, and educating farm workers on disease symptoms and preventive measures using a One-Health approach.

Additionally, plans for statewide vaccination of susceptible animals against anthrax are being finalized.

Anthrax is a highly contagious zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which primarily affects animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats.

However, it can also infect humans who come into direct contact with infected animals or consume contaminated animal products. The disease can be transmitted through contaminated pasture, feed, and water.

The clinical signs of anthrax in animals include sudden death and the presence of blood oozing from natural body openings. Anthrax spores are known to persist in the environment for long periods, making it crucial to implement swift control measures.

To further combat the spread of the disease, surveillance activities in livestock farms, markets, and abattoirs have been intensified. Targeted public awareness campaigns on anthrax are also being conducted to ensure that livestock owners remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicions of illness or deaths on their farms.

The Ministry emphasized the importance of avoiding contact with sick or dead animals and their products, as well as practicing good biosecurity measures.

Livestock owners are therefore urged to report any sudden animal deaths to the nearest veterinary authorities and to use personal protective equipment when handling sick or dead animals.

Vaccination is highlighted as the most effective preventive measure against anthrax in livestock, and the Ministry advises consulting with a veterinarian for guidance.

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, in close collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Federal Ministries of Health, Environment, and the Nigeria Center for Disease Control, will continue to provide updates on the situation. For further information or inquiries, individuals can reach out to the provided contact details.

With the implementation of these critical measures and the cooperation of all stakeholders, the Ministry aims to effectively contain the outbreak and safeguard both public health and the agricultural sector.

NITDA DG Urges Universities to Implement Effective Sustainability Models, Commends UNILAG.

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Favour Bassey Otu

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July 17, 2023

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The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, has called on universities in Nigeria to adopt robust sustainability models in their IT Innovation hubs, taking inspiration from the University of Lagos (UNILAG). Inuwa made this appeal during a visit to NITDA’s IT Innovation Hub at UNILAG, where he was warmly received by Prof. Ayodele Atsenuwa, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), and Dr. Victor Odumuyiwa, the Director of the Hub.

Recognizing the significant impact of information technology on society, Inuwa emphasized the importance of universities effectively utilizing IT hubs in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to leverage the full potential of emerging technologies and enhance productivity. He commended UNILAG for opening its hub to everyone with innovative ideas, highlighting the potential for such initiatives and collaborations to address challenges faced by the country.

Expressing enthusiasm about leveraging emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and robotics to build seamless systems, Inuwa emphasized their potential applications in social justice, criminal justice, and service distribution.

Inuwa lauded the optimal utilization of the UNILAG IT Innovation Hub, which has trained and incubated over 1,200 individuals. He encouraged other hubs, including those that NITDA has donated to five other universities, to scale up their activities and make the most of the facilities provided. Additionally, Inuwa mentioned that NITDA is constructing more IT Innovation Hubs outside of universities to accommodate innovative minds and contribute to wealth creation and economic value.

Prof. Ayodele Atsenuwa expressed the University’s gratitude to NITDA for donating the IT Innovation Hub building, aligning with UNILAG’s aspirations to become a prominent player in Nigeria’s emerging digital landscape. She emphasized the connection between the traditional curriculum and the university’s drive for innovation.

Dr. Victor Odumuyiwa provided an overview of the hub’s programs, activities, and achievements. He highlighted that a significant number of the over 1,200 individuals trained at the facility have gone on to make commendable contributions to Nigeria’s digital space. Dr. Odumuyiwa also noted that the hub has attracted over 20 million naira in voluntary sponsorships and is open to tech enthusiasts of all ages, as it aims to develop the critical human resources necessary for Nigeria’s emerging technology sector.

NITDA, CIFCFIN to Collaborate on Strengthening Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity.

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Favour Bassey Otu

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July 17, 2023

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The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, has affirmed the agency’s commitment to partnering with the Chartered Institute of Forensic and Certified Fraud Investigator of Nigeria (CIFCFIN) to enhance digital forensics capabilities and combat cybercrimes in the digital landscape. Inuwa conveyed this assurance during a meeting with CIFCFIN’s President, Dr. Iliyasu Gashinbak, and his team at the NITDA Corporate Headquarters in Abuja.

Inuwa emphasized the detrimental impact of cybercrimes on national economies, organizations, and individuals, underscoring the necessity of building capacity to safeguard against unscrupulous elements. He highlighted the importance of prioritizing cybersecurity during the digitization of services to ensure safety and protection.

NITDA has already taken proactive measures to safeguard the cybersecurity landscape through initiatives such as awareness campaigns, capacity building, and infrastructure development. Inuwa acknowledged that collaboration with key stakeholders, including individuals, organizations, and other sovereign nations, is crucial for achieving optimal results in combating cyber threats.

Recognizing the substantial resources invested by cybercriminals in research and powerful tools for launching attacks, Inuwa stressed the need for a well-organized defense to counter these threats. He discussed plans to establish a Cybersecurity Laboratory, seeking collaboration from relevant stakeholders to expedite its design and implementation.

Regarding CIFCFIN’s specific collaboration requests in areas such as training and certification programs, research and development, information sharing, policy development, workshops and conferences, standardization, and accreditation, Inuwa affirmed NITDA’s engagement in various scholarship and training programs. He mentioned partnerships with platforms like Coursera and the Cisco Academy, through which thousands of Nigerians have already received training in cybersecurity.

Inuwa expressed optimism that the collaboration between NITDA and CIFCFIN would enhance the cybersecurity architecture of the tech ecosystem. He commended the institute for the successful enactment of the Institute’s Establishment Act in 2022.

Dr. Iliyasu Gashinbak, President of CIFCFIN, expressed the institute’s desire to partner with NITDA in the areas of digital forensics and cybersecurity. In addition to the requests mentioned earlier, he appealed for support in the form of computers for the Nigerian College of Forensics and Fraud Investigators (NCFFI), technical assistance for deploying their e-portal and e-learning platforms, and a postgraduate scheme/scholarship. Gashinbak assured NITDA of the institute’s dedication to fulfilling its duties and contributing to the success of the collaboration.