Access to affordable digital technology remains a major challenge to the productivity and competitiveness of Nigeria’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). In response, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and global technology company, Zoho, have launched a new initiative targeting 25,000 businesses. Under the partnership, Zoho will provide wallet credits…
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.), has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to building a strong, self-reliant and globally competitive defence industrial base through joint production, technology transfer and local manufacturing. Musa said the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act 2023 provides an important institutional and legal framework for advancing this ambition while creating…
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called for increased investment in locally developed technology as part of efforts to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on foreign software and strengthen the country’s digital independence. The NCC Executive Vice Chairman, Aminu Maida, made the call during the closing ceremony of the fourth NCC Hackathon Live Show in Abuja. The…
As Nigeria continues its efforts to build a more competitive and digitally driven economy, a startling revelation has emerged at the 66th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). About 57% of technology products procured by government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and corporate organisations in Nigeria are reportedly refurbished products that are…
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has invested $8 million in the Ventures Platform Pan-African Fund II to support early-stage technology companies in Nigeria and four other African markets. The investment will provide growth capital to startups across Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Morocco and Senegal, with the goal of promoting innovation, business expansion…
Technology has become an essential part of everyday life. Nigerians use smartphones, computers, online banking, social media, cloud platforms, e-commerce websites and digital payment systems every day. Businesses also depend on technology to store customer information, communicate with clients and manage their operations. However, increased use of technology also creates cybersecurity risks. Cybercriminals, scammers and…
The internet has become an important part of students’ lives. Students use smartphones, computers and tablets for online learning, research, social media, communication, entertainment and developing digital skills. While the internet provides many opportunities, it also comes with risks. Students can encounter online scams, phishing messages, cyberbullying, fake websites, harmful downloads, identity theft and other…
Customer data is one of the most valuable assets a modern business can hold. From names, phone numbers and email addresses to payment information, account details and customer preferences, businesses collect and use data every day. However, as more Nigerian businesses move their operations online, customer data is increasingly exposed to risks such as phishing,…
Smart Africa has been urged to transform its continental network into a powerful commercial distribution engine capable of helping African technology companies expand across borders and compete globally. Henri Nyakarundi, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ARED Group, said the alliance could be missing a major opportunity despite already having many of the relationships and…
Microsoft has announced the appointment of Angela Nganga as its Country Lead for East Africa. A long-standing member of the Microsoft Middle East and Africa (Emerging Markets) leadership team, Nganga brings extensive experience in government engagement, strategic business development, stakeholder management and digital transformation to her new role. Nganga will advance Microsoft’s commitment to empowering…