LCCI unveils theme for 2019 ICTEL Expo, changes venue to Landmark Center - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Lagos Chamber fo Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has unveiled its theme for the 2019 Information, Communication Technology and Telecommunication (ICTEL), reports ITREALMS.
President, LCCI, Mr. Babatunde Paul Ruwase, said that the theme for this year's edition of ICTEL Expo, is "Fourth Industrial Revolution: The Nigerian Story" describing it as apt in three reasons.

According to him. one of the focus is that its appropriate and timely and not just because its contemporary.

"But because Africa and indeed Nigeria seemed to be slow in coming to terms with the far-reaching implications of the fourth industrial revolution," he declared.

Ruwase also said that the second reasons for the theme has to do with providing another great opportunity to influence national discourse on the culture of enterprise in Nigeria from an ICT positive perspective.

ICTEL Expo 2019, he equally said, provides aspiring entrepreneurs, Tech Startups and thousands of unemployed and under employed Nigerians yet another unique opportunity for an enriching learning experience, capacity building, mentoring, connecting with investors and employees of labour and listening to life-changing accounts from different stakeholders.

On the third reasons, Ruwase pointed out that ICTEL Expo offers great impact on policy initiatives and advocacy, especially in the ICT space.

He urged governments at all levels to rise up to the challenges of increasing technological revolution if the dream for a truly great nation must be realised.

Chairman, Specialised Exhibition Committee of the Trade Promotion Board at LCCI, Engr. Leye Kupoluyi, said that they have the mandate to foster an enabling environment for businesses, hence they identified technology-driven updates and innovations as critical success factors for entrepreneurship development and sustainable businesses.

This, he said, was why the Chamber has been providing a platform for the government, regulatory agencies and other stakeholders in the ICTEL industries to learn, interact and share experiences.

Welcoming guests to the media launch, chairman, Trade Promotion Board Mr. Gabriel Idahosa, revealed that the 2019 ICTEL Expo will hold for two days between July 16 and 17 at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, underscoring the fact that developed countries are investing heavily in fourth industrial revolutions, therefore Africa and Nigeria precisely si far behind.

Africa, he equally said, is at great risk of being left far behind by the fourth industrial revolution.

"Nigeria with its position in Africa and population of its youths, needs to brace up. Technology is reshaping our world in an unimaginable manner with massive use of robots, bio-technology, artificial intelligence and related technologies," he said.

Remmy Nweke/DoP

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Fayemi charges media on quality, objective reportage - ITREALMS

ITREALMS: Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has charged the media on quality and objective news reportage; urging practitioners to restore “the content and context that are fast disappearing from the media world” reports ITREALMS.

The Governor stated this on Wednesday when he received officials of the First in Africa TV Alumni Association, led by Dr Yemi Farounbi, who were on a courtesy visit to intimate him on plans for the 60th anniversary celebration of the establishment of first TV station in Africa.

The Governor said quality and objective news reportage is fast disappearing as the social media now feeds the public with unregulated, unverified and information majorly made up of unfounded allegations, adding that politicians are at the receiving end of unfounded allegations on the social media which seems to have gained recognition as a news medium.

“Fast news is good but fast is not necessarily quality, fast is not depth and news must reflect the five ‘Ws’ and H. - who, what, when, where, why and how. You no longer get that now. Somebody just writes on the social media and even when he knows that it is not true. There is no editor to vet it, to say that you can’t release that; have you contacted the person being accused? Has he given the other side of the story?

“That’s not what you get from the WNBS, WNTV and its products, BCOS, OSRC and BSES in their early days. They too are degenerating but we have a duty to bring them back to that quality and status they used to have in the past”, he said.

Governor Fayemi also lauded the vision of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who built the first television station in Africa. He added that the fact that the Eastern and Northern regions took a cue from the establishment of WNTV and went ahead to establish theirs respectively shows that true federalism encourages competitiveness, which is good for development.

Earlier, the leader of the First in Africa TV Alumni association and former Nigerian Ambassador to Philippines, Dr Yemi Farounbi had commended the late sage Chief Obafemi Awolowo for establishing the then Western Nigerian Television which was the first television station in Africa.

He described Awolowo as a man who opened the door of progressive politics in Nigeria by establishing many first innovations in health, education and other sectors of the economy.

Farounbi who said that Fayemi is already living up to expectation in governance, expressed satisfaction that the governor is following Awolowo’s footsteps as one of his “political offshoots”.

The former envoy explained that the visit to Governor Fayemi was to inform him of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of WNTV, which will hold later in the year. He said the celebration would reawaken the self -worth of Nigerians and their sense of creativity.

“We should learn how to celebrate ourselves and write our own history. Awolowo established the first TV station in Ibadan at a time when South Africa and many European countries did not have one. But today, many people think television is all about DSTV and probably think South Africa was the first to have a TV station in Africa, because of the way they have developed it. Now is the time to celebrate our heritage, celebrate Awolowo a man of vision and put history in proper perspectives, he said.

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NCC launches second phase of SIM registration verification, compliance audit - ITREALMS:

ITREALMS: The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched the second phase of Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) card registration verification and compliance audit, reports ITREALMS.

Disclosing this Thursday, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) at NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, assured stakeholders of the Commission’s determination to continue to enhance national security objectives, consumer protection, and zero tolerance for registration related infractions.

ITREALMS reports that in order to provide further assurance on the integrity of its Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) registration database, NCC said the second phase of its ongoing audit of SIM registration data and registration processes across all Mobile Network Operator (MNO) platforms will commence shortly.

He also said that the audit is specifically to monitor operators’ strict adherence to the technical and other specifications for the subscriber Registration as prescribed by the NCC’s Telephone Subscribers Registration Regulations of 2011 and the Technical Standards and Specifications issued by the Commission in 2011 and subsequently thereafter. The Commission however stated that the audit is without prejudice to the ongoing “backend verification and scrubbing” of SIM registration data already submitted to the Commission by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) such as MTN, Glo, Airtel, 9Mobile and Mtel.

“The NCC is very sensitive to the fact that the Subscriber Registration Database is a veritable tool being used by Security and Law Enforcement Agencies in the detection and apprehension of criminal elements involved in heinous crimes like kidnapping, financial crimes, armed robberies, banditry, cattle rustling and other crimes which leverage on easy access to the national telecoms network. As such, we are determined to continue to ensure that all SIM cards are traceable to their real owners with the least effort" he said.

The EVC also noted that the verification exercise is a continuation of the NCC’s consistent regulatory interventions to ensure a clean and credible SIM registration database. This effort started with the enactment of the Subscriber Registration Regulations and registration specifications in 2011.

He explained that it was significantly ramped up in August 2015 when the MNOs were given a deadline to disconnect SIMs found not to be fully compliant with registration requirements, with the attendant consequences. It continued with the setting up of a SIM Registration Task Force in 2017 to further harmonise registration practices across all networks, and it culminated in the recent establishment of a joint Industry Working Group comprising of senior representatives of the NCC, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and MNOs. That Working Group was set up with the singular mandate of harmonizing the subscriber registration process with the National Identity Card Registration Project.

“Currently, verification and scrubbing of SIM Registration data is ongoing. This is to ensure the integrity of data submitted to the Commission by the MNOs, before we feed the cleaned-up data to the central database warehoused by NIMC. The audit is a natural next step to ensure that not only is the data already submitted fully compliant, but that operators maintain the highest standards of registration practices across all their touch-points so that the subscriber data they are collecting continues to serve the national security and other interests for which subscriber registration was mandated”, Professor Danbatta further said.

Stressing that everything NCC is doing is in accordance with global best practice – verification and audits are continuous exercises which the Commission has been engaging in since 2011 when subscriber registration formally commenced in Nigeria.

“Our objectives are to carry our quality assurance on the integrity of all aspects of the subscriber registration process and to demonstrate zero tolerance for any deviation from laid-down processes by any industry player, no matter how seemingly minor. Our expectations are very high indeed, considering the national security and socio-economic implications of the Subscriber Registration Database”. Prof. Danbatta said.

The EVC used the opportunity to allay the fears of consumers, saying that “during this audit, there will be no disruption of service to law abiding consumers who have genuinely registered their SIMs - we have made sure of that by designing the exercise in such a way that we can gauge compliance at measured intervals using very professional tools and standards”.

He nonetheless stressed that the NCC determined to aggressively pursue the national interest objectives of delivering a credible database of telecoms subscribers in Nigeria: “this is why we are working with NIMC and other stakeholders to tighten all loose ends. We are determined deliver one single, credible national citizens identity database which is sorely required to fast-track the attainment of the Federal Government’s national security and reform agenda.”

Remmy Nweke/DoP

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ABEF urges African businesses on Blue Economy - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Africa Blue Economy Forum (ABEF) comes to Tunis on June 25-26 with some confirmed speakers include Government ministers and officials from Gabon, Ghana, Morocco, Somaliland, Tunisia and Seychelles; Aims to raise awareness of the economic, social and environmental benefits of the Blue Economy.

African businesses are being challenged to wake up to the economic, social and environmental power of the Blue Economy. Momentum is gathering for companies based in Africa’s coastal nations to fully recognise and understand the benefits of backing a Blue Economy, which covers a wide range of productive sectors that are crucial for the continent’s sustainable development, including fisheries, aquaculture, transport, energy, trade and tourism as well as extractive industries.

Research indicates that the Blue Economy has the potential to be a major source of wealth and prosperity for the continent and help advance the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the UN Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development.

Businesses interested in learning how they can be part of the rising tide involved in the Blue Economy are invited to attend the second Africa Blue Economy Forum (ABEF), which is being held in Tunisia on 25-26 June.

This year’s ABEF2019 builds on the inaugural event in London last year which explored what the Blue Economy was. This year’s forum aims to take it a stage further and explore how business and government can implement actions that will proactively boost the economic, social and environmental welfare of the continent.

Ayo Midele/editor

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U.S-Nigeria team successfully extradicted Muhammad Khalid KHAN - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The United States (U.S.) Department of Justice has confirmed the successful team work that led to the extradition of drug baron, Muhammad Khalid KHAN to the states in collaboration with Nigeria officials, reports ITREALMS.

The exercise was put to bed on April 28, 2019, according to our US sources, with the resounding assistance of the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Justice - Attorney General Abubakar Malami, prosecutors from the Central Authority Unit (CAU), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) under the leadership of Chairman Chief Executive Col. Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah (rtd).

ITREALMS, recalls that KHAN was arrested at the request of the U.S. Justice Department in Nigeria pursuant to a federal arrest warrant issued in the Southern District of New York. The United States Department of Justice heavily depended and relied on the support and professionalism of Nigerian law enforcement in coordinating  the successful arrest and extradition of KHAN, who is charged with attempted narcotics importation, conspiracy to import a controlled substance into the U.S., and international money laundering.

Muhammad Khalid KHAN controlled an international drug trafficking and money laundering network responsible for trafficking narcotics to the U.S., Australia, Africa and Europe.  His money-laundering network was widespread throughout the U.S. Australia, Canada, Africa, Europe and Asia.  Muhammad Khalid KHAN has been the target of multiple DEA investigations including those conducted by international DEA Offices in Lagos, Nigeria, Islamabad, Pakistan, and Sydney, Australia, and domestic offices in New York and the DEA Special Operations Division, as well international partnerships with the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Beginning in October 2017, KHAN, DEA began investigating this Southwest Asia-based drug trafficker. Over the course of several investigations, KHAN was found to be responsible for trafficking multi-kilogram quantities of heroin and the importation of said heroin into the United States and Australia.  NDLEA investigators in conjunction with the DEA Lagos Office ran a parallel investigation into KHAN’s utilization of a Lagos-based Nigerian narcotics transportation network, in furtherance of distribution of southwest-Asian heroin to global markets. 

The U.S. Federal indictment out of the Southern District of New York charges KHAN, 31, a citizen of Pakistan, on three counts: (1) attempting to import heroin into the United States, (2) international promotional money laundering, and (3) international concealment money laundering. If convicted, KHAN faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison on Count One, and a maximum sentence of 20 years on each of Counts Two and Three. The statutory minimum and maximum sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge. 

The U.S. Justice Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the DEA Lagos Country Office looks forward to continuing a collaborative effort between the Nigerian Ministry of Justice and their Nigerian law enforcement partners in furtherance of identifying and bringing to justice transnational criminal organizations whom are determined to saturate our communities with illegal, and dangerous controlled substances around the world.   
Remmy Nweke/DoP
 

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Fayemi to labour leaders: Work for overall interest of Ekiti people - ITREALMS

ITREALMS: Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi. has advised Labour leaders in the state to go beyond union matters and work in the overall best interest of the people of the state, reports
ITREALMS.
 
Dr Fayemi, who promised to ensure a good relationship with labour movement in the state, said he was passionate about democracy within and outside labour union.

The Governor gave the advice, Wednesday while receiving the newly elected executive members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) led by their leaders Comrade Kolapo Olatunde and Comrade Sola Adigun respectively.

While urging the labour leaders to use their positions in the best interest of workers, the governor said he deliberately decided not to show interest in the choice of labour leaders in the state in order to enable workers choose the leaders they can truly trust.

“It’s your job to defend workers’ rights, but your job in my view should not stop at just exclusively workers defence because you are here in the overall interest of Ekiti State and of good governance that you would benefit out of, but that the larger majority of our people would also benefit from .

“ I believe all of us have a duty to continue to work to achieve better governance in the interest of our people while also conducting yourself in a manner that you don’t loose the confidence of your constituency because that is important in a quest for good governance and sustainable development in Ekiti state.

”There is always a temptation that every politician would want to poke nose in the business of who becomes what or the other in the labour movement, I chose not to be involved in that because I believe it is in your own best interest to decide who your leaders would be. At least whoever you choose will not face the immediate attack of being the government agent and would be free to conduct himself or herself in the best interest of the movement.

“For us, we are passionate about democracy within the union and democracy outside the union and we cannot have democracy without Democrats, so as democrats yourselves, I can only commend you who have emerged as the representatives of workers in the state, you should use your position responsibly, in the interest of the workers, I have no doubt in my mind knowing your track record that both of you would work in the overall best interest not just of NLC and TUC as labour centres, but also our people in Ekiti state as a whole.

“We want a state that is known for harmonious labour relations and that can only happen if we are also able to meet the demands that you placed before us and where we are not able to do so, to explain our situation transparent and honest a manner as you can see yourself, s there will be no notion of hanky-panky that government is involved in. for me it’s a pleasure and a privilege to work with you as the new leaders and my doors will be opened, you can always get in touch with me as leaders in addition to working with those who would be primarily responsible for labour relations.” Dr Fayemi stated.

Earlier, the Chairmen of NLC and TUC, Comrades Kolapo Olatunde and Sola Adigun had assured government of robust relationship and cooperation during their tenure adding that their major objectives was to ensure the welfare and development of Ekiti state in general.

The labour leaders jointly presented some documents containing their demands to the governor to look into and address appropriately.

Also at the event were the Head of Service, Mr Deji Ajayi, the Chief of Staff, Mr Biodun Omoleye and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Labour and Productivity, Comrade Oluyemi Esan.

Ayo Midele/Editor

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Cameroonian journalist Monica Nkodo wins APO invitation to 2019 EurAfrican Forum - ITREALMS

ITREALMS: The leading media relations consultancy and press release distribution service in Africa and the Middle East, APO Group, has named Monica Nkodo (@mimiost) from Cameroon the winner of its invitation to attend the 2019 EurAfrican Forum which will take place in Cascais, Portugal, from 4-5 July, 2019, reports ITREALMS
 
APO Group, will offer one round trip ticket and accommodation in Cascais (Portugal) for Monica Nkodo to attend the EurAfrican Forum.

The EurAfrican Forum is an annual event designed to encourage greater collaboration between Europe and Africa. Last year’s forum was attended by African government ministers from Angola, Algeria, Benin, Cape Verde, Egypt, Senegal, Kenya and Tunisia. Entrepreneurs, investors, NGOs, activists, social influencers and international media were also in attendance sharing their views on how Africa and Europe can work together towards prosperity.

Monica Nkodo (31) was born and raised in Cameroon. She made her journalism studies at the Advanced School of Mass Communication (ASMAC) of the University of Yaoundé II, in Cameroon. In 2010, she obtained her Professional Postgraduate Diploma in Communication. On February 1, 2019, Monica celebrated her 10th year at Cameroon Tribune, the national bilingual daily newspaper where she has written articles for a number of desks – society, culture, sports, politics and economics; amongst other contents. Monica is particularly interested on agriculture and new technologies. In 2011, she won the prize of the best journalist in print press thanks to an investigation about children living with diabetes. Monica is also one of the African contributors for Contemporary And, an online magazine focused on contemporary art.

“APO Group congratulates Monica and is proud to offer this opportunity to an experienced reporter with a rich background. Each year, APO Group offers invitations to major events as part of our commitment to supporting journalism in Africa and creating opportunities for journalists to learn and grow across Africa,” says Lionel Reina, CEO of APO Group.

APO Group is the leading media relations consultancy in Africa and the Middle East, offering organizations a range of advisory services alongside its press release distribution and media monitoring solutions. Each year APO Group offers journalists the opportunity to attend major events as a part of its commitment to supporting journalism in Africa.

For instance, the three previous recipients of the AfricaCom invitation were science journalist Aimable Twahirwa from Rwanda (www.bit.ly/2y42xAe), journalist John Churu from Botswana (www.bit.ly/2NVy4PP) and journalist Lilian Murugi Mutegi from Kenya (www.bit.ly/2y7EuAi). 

In September 2016, reporter Aggrey Mutambo from Kenya (www.bit.ly/2RdhgSe) has won APO’s invitation to attend the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), the leading hotel investment conference in Africa. In October 2018, Online News Editor Frank Eleanya from Nigeria (https://bit.ly/2YBnTBI) has won APO’s invitation to attend the Web Summit, the Largest Tech Conference in the World.

APO also sponsors the APO Energy Media Award and the APO Media Award where a journalist wins $500 a month for one year, one laptop and one intercontinental flight ticket to a destination of his or her choice as well as one year of access to over 600 airport VIP lounges.

The founder and chairman of APO Group, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard is a member of the Advisory Board of the EurAfrican Forum.

Until May 13, African journalists can also apply to win an invitation to attend the African Development Bank’s 2019 Annual Meetings, which will take place in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, from 11th to 14th June, 2019.

Nenye Dom/Editor

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Airtel unveils 4G in Coal City, gains Ugwuanyi commendations - ITREALMS

ITREALMS: The Executive Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, has commended leading telecommunications services provider, Airtel Nigeria, for upgrading and modernizing its network infrastructure in Enugu as well as rolling out its 4G services, reports
ITREALMS.

Ugwuanyi spoke while a team of Airtel employees led by its Regional Operations Director, South Region, Dapo Dosunmu, paid him a courtesy visit at the State House.

He thanked Airtel for modernizing its network, noting that the initiative will help boost personal productivity, trade and commerce as well as provide solid platforms for people to become successful in their respective endeavours.

The governor later attended a consumer launch event at the Airtel Regional Office on Tuesday, 7th May, in Enugu, where he formally launched Airtel’s network 4G services in the State.

While thanking the Governor for his support and for creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, Dapo Dosunmu, Regional Operations Director, South Region, who represented the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Airtel Nigeria, said Airtel is committed to the State “and will continue to connect much more towns to our 4G network.

“This is not just the launch of 4G in Enugu but a total modernization of the Airtel Network Infrastructure in Enugu with new and innovative offerings that will empower and offer real value to the great people of this State,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the Odezuligbo III, Nike Kingdom and Igwe of Enugu, Dr. (Barr) J.U Nnaji, said he is impressed by Airtel’s commitment to Enugu state. “Airtel has been a good friend of the palace. I am happy about the strides Airtel has made with the launch of 4G services in Enugu.

“I usually watch your adverts and I enjoy them so much. I am glad to associate with whatever you are doing in Enugu and I give you my full blessings on the unveiling of your 4G network.”

To connect to the Airtel 4G network in Enugu, a telephone consumer would need a 4G enabled device and also expected to upgrade his or her SIM to a 4G SIM to enjoy the service. The upgrade of one’s SIM to a 4G SIM is free and can be done in any Airtel’s retail outlet nationwide.

Uzoh Amaka/editor

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Trump honours Tiger Woods with highest US civilian prize - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

 

President Donald Trump of the United States has honoured sports icon, Tiger Woods with the highest civilian prize in the land, reports ITREALMS.

 

Tiger Woods, ITREALMS recalled, won the Masters on April 14, and President Trump had declared he would award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and ordered his aides to schedule the event as soon as possible.

 

On Monday, Trump got what he asked for. At a ceremony in the sun-splashed White House Rose Garden, Trump made the 43-year-old Woods the fourth, and youngest, professional golfer to receive the nation’s highest civilian honor, after Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Charlie Sifford.With 81 PGA Tour victories, Woods is one shy of Sam Snead’s all-time record, and with 15 major tournament victories, he trails only Nicklaus, who has 18.But it was his dramatic Masters victory at Augusta National Golf Club last month, ending an 11-year major championship drought, that capped a years-long comeback from injuries and drama in his personal life, including an arrest two years ago for driving under the influence.Trump eagerly leapt onto the Tiger bandwagon.

 

The two have played golf a number of times, most recently with Nicklaus in February at Trump’s course in Jupiter, Florida.At a ceremony attended by several U.S. lawmakers, Trump called Woods “a true legend. He’s a great guy,” said Trump. 

 

“He introduced countless new people to the sport of golf, from every background and walk of life. … Tiger Woods is a global symbol of American excellence, devotion and drive.”

 

Woods, accompanied by his mother, Kultida, his two children, Sam and Charlie, his girlfriend, Erica Herman, and his caddie, Joe LaCava. 

 

Reacting, Wood said to his relatives, ”You’ve seen the good and the bad the highs and the lows, and I wouldn’t be here without your help. You guys have meant so much to me in my life. I’ve battled and I’ve tried to hang in there and I’ve tried to come back and play a great game of golf again.”

Nenye Dom/Editor

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Facebook celebrates national Small Business Week with solutions - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

As part of celebration of the National Small Business Week, Facebook has unveiled new products that will help the over 90 million small businesses on the its platform globally, reports ITREALMS.

In addition to its small business training program which comes up in Washington DC annually, Boost with Facebook, Facebook has added new solutions to help small businesses save time and resources so they can focus on growth.

Among the new tools being introduced by Facebook is the Automated Ads feature which takes the guesswork out of buying ads on Facebook, creating the right advertising plan for each business in a few easy steps. Based on the businesses’ goals, this tool uses the existing images from their business page and let’s business owners “set it and forget it” to make it even more simple for them to advertise and focus on other aspects of their business.

The new additions also include Appointment Bookings, a new tool which expands Facebook's free tools for small businesses to effectively manage their time. With this new tool, service-based businesses on Facebook and Instagram can now accept and manage appointments, customer information and send appointment reminders — all from their phone.

The latest addition also includes video creative tools that help small businesses build eye-catching video for mobile in just minutes.

A statement from Facebook reads; “We believe in empowering small businesses through our free and paid solutions to help more people launch and grow businesses, which translates to real impact for their communities and local economies. According to the SBA, 98.2% of businesses in Washington, D.C. are small businesses and together they employ more than 240,000 people.

“Beyond adding more tools, we also want to help make sure business owners in the District -- and around the country -- have the digital skills they need to take their businesses to the next level. That’s why all of the sessions at our D.C. Boost with Facebook event, hosted at Union Market, are free and open to anyone who wants to join.”

Attendees will hear from local business leaders making a difference through the use of digital tools while getting the opportunity to attend classes on everything from getting started on Facebook and Instagram to optimizing their content for mobile and the audiences they want to reach across platforms.

“Through events like this one, we’re making progress towards our goal of training one million people in the US in digital skills by 2020. We hope these new tools and training programs make it easier for small businesses on our platform to focus on what’s most important: growing their businesses,” the statement adds.

Nenye Dom/Editor

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HMD Global reassures partners, customers of unwavering commitment - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Home of Nokia phones, the HMD Global, has reassured its partners and customers in Nigeria that it remains committed to quality craftsmanship that has become the hallmark of the Nokia phone brand over the years, reports ITREALMS .

This was stated at a partners and customers event organized by the firm to engage and reward outstanding trade partners.

The General Manager, West, East and Central Africa at HMD Global, Joseph Umunakwe, in his opening remarks appreciated the partners and customers for their unwavering support and trust in the brand. “Your commitment to the Nokia phone brand has brought us where we are today and we do not take this support for granted. We are already top 10 smartphone player globally and are top 5 in more than 30 countries, in barely two and a half years of our existence,” he said.

Mr. Umunakwe highlighted the key differentiators which have kept consumers all over the country interested in the Nokia phones. According to him “At HMD Global, we continue to innovate in ways that our consumers are beginning to benefit from the advancement of technology in their daily lives. Some of the key differentiators that have kept us ahead of the game, include our commitment to quality craftsmanship; our European/Finnish heritage; our partnership with ZEISS and our pure, secure and up-to-date Android offering which gives you access to the innovations from Google and ensure that your Nokia smartphones keep getting better with time.”

The Market Access Manager, HMD Global, Adetayo Obinaike, took attendees through the newly introduced Nokia phones – Nokia 1 Plus, Nokia 4.2 and Nokia 9 PureView- stating that the phones have started selling in the country.

“For us, it is no longer just about specs, but about the experience throughout the life of a device. We believe that your phone should get better with time which explains why our Nokia smartphones have an unmatched track record of keeping your smartphones up to date with latest innovations from Google,” Obinaike said.

Two Master Dealers, Trust Island Global and Rewjido Nigeria Limited, were rewarded for their outstanding performances in the first quarter of 2019. Commending HMD Global on this kind gesture, the Managing Director of Trust Island Global, Renee Aganmwonyi, said “We appreciate HMD Global for your support. This recognition is a reward of our dedication to driving the brand and a motivation to do more with you going forward.”

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CPN to dwell on Digital Infrastructure @2019 IT Assembly - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Computer Professionals (Registration) Council of Nigeria (CPN) has concluded plans to dwell on the ‘Digital Infrastructure: Defining the Next Step’ at its 2019 edition of Information Technology (IT) Assembly slated for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja next month, reports ITREALMS.

Registrar and Secretary to the Council, Mr. Allwell C. Achumba revealed this to ITREALMS at CPN Media Executive Forum.

He also said that the two-day event has been slated between Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 June, 2019 at NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja, noting that Nigeria needs to create wealth and sustain the prosperity through digital infrastructure by giving more people the knowledge and skills to compete, collaborate and connect so as to move the country forward.

Digital knowledge and skills, he said have become the global currency of the 21st century economies.

“In this digital economy, there is no central bank that prints this currency. The thing that will keep you moving forward is always what you bring to the table yourself.

Achumba who was in the company of the CPN President, Prof. Charles Uwadia, said that the council has chosen to focus on this invaluable tool that will propel the economy and prepare industries for global competitiveness.

“CPN as an agency of government that regulates and controls the practice of information technology practice in Nigeria is taking the bull by the horn by convoking yet another forum,” he declared.

Other members of the Council present at the media executive forum includes the vice president and vice chairman in council, Chief Kole Jagun, Chief Charles Onyeukwu, Olorogun James Emadoye, and Mr. Jide Awe, among others.

CPN, ITREALMS recalled that CPN was established through Act No. 49 of 1993 and charged with the regulation, control and supervision of the computing profession and practice in Nigeria in line with Section 1 (2) of the Act under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Education, with the National Assembly having the oversight functions over it.

Remmy Nweke/DoP

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Pix: CPN President, Prof. Uwadia and Registrar, Mr. Allwell Achumba and NITRA chairman, Emma Okonji at CPN Media Executive Forum

SIM swap fraud on the rise in Africa - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The kinds of frauds associated with Subscribers Identification Module (SIM) swap have been on the rise on the continent of Africa, reports ITREALMS.

This was revealed at Kaspersky Lab’s annual Cyber Security Weekend that took place in Cape Town, South Africa, reports ITREALMS.

Kaspersky Lab experts, ITREALMS reports, disclosed that a wide spread growth of mobile payments across the globe and the many cyber risks that surround such technologies, especially the recent SIM swap fraud wave, which have become very common in Africa and the wider region. 

ITREALMS also gathered that in South Africa this type of fraud more than double in the last year, according a report of South African Banking Risk Information Centre (SABRIC).

A SIM swap fraud happens when someone convinces your carrier to switch your phone number over to a SIM card that a criminal possesses. In some cases, there are carrier’s employees working together with criminals. By diverting your incoming SMS messages, scammers can easily complete the text-based two-factor authentication checks that protect your most sensitive accounts in financial services, social networks, webmail services and instant messengers.

Many African countries are suited to mobile payment methods. In fact, research notes that at the end of 2017, there were 135 live mobile money services across the Sub-Saharan African region, with 122 million active accounts. While payment methods through mobiles offer a convenience that is hard to debate, Kaspersky Lab research shows that mobile payments and the banking system are suffering a wave of attack – mostly powered by SIM swap fraud - and people are losing their money as a result. This type of attack is used to not only steal credentials and capture one-time passwords (OTPs) sent via an SMS, but also to cause financial damage to victims, resetting the accounts on financial services, allowing to the fraudsters access to currency accounts not only in banks but also in fintechs and credit unions. Fraudsters are also using it as way to steal money using WhatsApp, loading the messages in a new phone, contacting the victim’s contacts asking for money, simulating an emergency situation.

“Despite financial inclusion services prospering, the flip side to this is that it opens up a world of opportunities to cybercriminals and fraudsters who are using the convenience a mobile phone offers to exploit and poke holes in a two-factor authentication processes. Frauds using SIM swap are becoming common in Africa and Middle East, affecting countries like South Africa, Turkey and UAE. Countries like Mozambique have experienced this firsthand. The implemented solution, by banks and mobile operators in Mozambique, as a result, is something I believe we must learn from and encourage other regions to investigate and apply, among other aspects, to mobile payment methods of the future – as a way to ensure that mobile phones do not become an enemy in our pockets,” said Fabio Assolini, Senior Security Researcher of Kaspersky Lab.

The total money lost in the attacks varies by country: there are extreme cases, such as one in the United Arab Emirates, where one victim lost $ 1 million, while in South Africa one victim reported losing $ 20,000. “In average fraudsters can steal $2,500 to $3,000 per victim, while the cost to perform the SIM swap starts with $10 to $40,” conclude Assolini.

In order to protect the growing mobile digital life and payment methods, Kaspersky Lab recommends the following key considerations:

• Voice and SMS methods avoided as authentication methods for payments - OTPs in mobile apps like Google Authenticator or the use of physical tokens should be used.
• Biometrics - there is no better authentication than that of a physical characteristic. Voice authentication is an option that can be investigated further.
• An automated ‘Your number will be deactivated’ message – to be shared upon SIM swap request. This will support the user to report the activity, if it is not legitimate, faster.
• Activate 2FA on WhatsApp – in an attempt to minimize WhatsApp hijacking, activating Two-factor authentication using a six-digit PIN on your device is critical. This supports the user in having an additional layer of security on the device.

Remmy Nweke/DoP

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African FinTech dangles $10,000 on startups - ITREALMS

ITREALMS: 

The African FinTech Foundry (AFF) is dangling the sum of $10,000, about N3,616,903.83, for the best of the top-five startup finalists at the 2019 Disrupt conference, reports ITREALMS.

The organisers of the conference, disclosed this to ITREALMS in Lagos at a press conference on Tuesday, saying that earlier in the month, some 20 startups attended its Startups Challenge where the top five emerged.

“The startup with the best initiative will receive a prize of $10,000,” the organisers said.

AFF is an Access Bank Initiative aimed at nurture, fund and accelerate the growth of tech startups in Africa through its mentorship and accelerator programmes, fast-tracking their growth and maturity to deliver relevant solutions to the market, providing greater access to financial services to the financial excluded across the continent.

ITREALMS also reports that this is coming as the Managing Director of Access Bank, Mr. Hubert Nwigwe will be part of the key speakers at the 2019 edition of Disrupt Conference, slated for May 16 at Landmark Events Centre in Lagos.

The Head of AFF, Segun Adeniyi disclosed this to ITREALMS, saying the startups will be representing fields in the areas of Artificial Intelligence (AI), big data, robotics and blockchain technology.

''AFF is focused on Technology startups in the growth phase of their business lifecycle. This includes but not limited to eduTech, healthTech, insureTech, FinTech, AgriTech and RegTech.

''AFF leverages on its extensive partner networks and relationships to offer startup cohorts access to markets, customers, funding, educational and mentorship opportunities.

''Successful startups are exposed to a plethora of networking opportunities to meet venture capital firms, angel investors, corporates and other qualified investors.

''Startup cohorts from the AFF continue to receive ongoing support post Demo-Day, as well networking opportunities with the extensive AFF partner network.

''Startups also receive formal and informal referrals, voluntary quarterly check-ins and invitations to mentor current cohorts in the accelerator programme, and most importantly, continued access to funding,'' he said.

Adeniyi said that AFF aimed to nurture, fund and accelerate the growth of Technology startups in Africa through its mentorship and accelerator programmes.

He said that the foundry fast-tracked the growth and maturity of startups to deliver relevant solutions to the market, providing greater access to financial services to the financial excluded across the continent.

As said by him, the growth of technology startups in Africa is very instrumental to the survival of the continent on a larger scale.

''New ideas translate into new businesses, which inevitably drive employment opportunities and become an enabler of both social and economic development. 'In addition, these key players help ensure that the economy is diversified, as there is less concentration on one sector.

''Another important benefit is the increase in investments obtained by these startups from both local and international organisations. All of these have led to more structured economic infrastructure, creation of more jobs and a lift in income for the average earner,'' he said.

The Executive Director, Information Technology (IT) and Operations, Access Bank, Adeolu Bajomo, said that through the 'Disrupt 2019 Conference'', the bank wanted to position Nigeria as a melting point for innovation in Africa.

Bajomo said that the conference was to build awareness around AFF and position Access Bank as the most innovative African bank.

He said that the programme would provide platform for strategic partnership and collaboration between Access Bank and investors, experts, regulators, innovators and technology companies to create a new era of technological disruption in the banking industry.

According to him, collaboration between technology start-ups and large corporates is key for fostering innovation in Africa.

''This kind of relationship is extremely beneficial to all parties within the ecosystem. In the long run, this helps corporates enter and create new markets, while start-ups are able to develop feasible and scalable products,'' he said.

Bajomo said that technology provides opportunities for businesses to continually expand, stressing that technology equally serves almost as an extra factor of production that facilitates new ways of service delivery.

Remmy Nweke/DoP

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Pix: L- R: Partner, Aluko and Oyebode, Olubunmi Fayokun; Head of Marketing, Kia Motors, Jimoh Olawale; Team member, Africa Fintech Foundry(AFF), Anita Odiete; Executive Director, Operations and IT, Access Bank Plc, Ade Bajomo; Head, Africa Fintech Foundry, Olusegun Adeniyi and Co-founder, Bluechip Technologies Limited, Olumide Soyombo at the AFF Disrupt 2019 Press conference held in Lagos.

Ransomware: Sophos raises alarm over MegaCortex threats - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:  

Global leader in endpoint and network security, Sophos, has raised alarm over new ransomware threats by MegaCortex, reports ITREALMS.

Ransomware, ITREALMS gathered, is a type of malicious software or malware, designed to deny access to a computer system or data until a ransom is paid. Ransomware typically spreads through phishing emails or by unknowingly visiting an infected website.

Raising the alarm at the weekend, SophosLabs Uncut release made available to ITREALMS, gave detailed malware analysis of the new ransomware called MegaCortex.

Explaining this, Sophos research team noted that MegaCortex was a relatively little-seen malware that suddenly spiked in volume on May 1.

"Sophos has seen MegaCortex detections in the US, Canada, Argentina, Italy, the Netherlands, France, Ireland, Hong Kong, Indonesia, and Australia.

“The ransomware has manual components similar to Ryuk and BitPaymer, but the adversaries behind MegaCortex use more automated tools to carry out the attack – this is unique.

“Up until now, Sophos has seen automated attacks, manual attacks and blended attacks, which typically lean more towards using manual hacking techniques to move laterally; with MegaCortex, Sophos is seeing heavier use of automation coupled with the manual component.

“This new formula is designed to spread the infection to more victims, more quickly.

As indicated in the SophosLabs Uncut article, MegaCortex Ransomware Wants to be TheOne, there is no explicit value for the ransom demand in the ransom note.

The attackers invite victims to email them on either of two free mail.com email addresses and send along a file that the ransomware drops on the victim’s hard drive to request decryption “services.”
The ransom note also promises the cybercriminals “will include a guarantee that your company will never be inconvenienced by us,” if the victims pay the ransom, and continues, “You will also receive a consultation on how to improve your companies cyber security.”

Also, Sophos made some recommendations to businesses:

“It appears that there's a strong correlation between the presence of MegaCortex, and a pre-existing, ongoing infection on the victims' networks with both Emotet and Qbot. If IT managers are seeing alerts about Emotet or Qbot infections, those should take a high priority. Both of those bots can be used to distribute other malware, and it's possible that's how the MegaCortex infections got their start.

“Sophos has not seen any indication so far that Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) has been abused to break into networks, but we know that holes in enterprise firewalls that allow people to connect to RDP remain relatively common. We strongly discourage this practice and suggest that any IT admin who wishes to do this put the RDP machine behind a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

“As the attack seems to indicate that an administrative password was abused by the criminals, we also recommend the widespread adoption of two-factor authentication wherever possible

“Keeping regular backups of your most important and current data on an offline storage device is the best way to avoid having to pay a ransom.

“Use anti-ransomware protection, such as Sophos Intercept X, to block MegaCortex and future ransomware

Sophos' Senior Security Advisor, John Shier, said they suspect this script kiddie/living-off-the-land ‘mega bundle’ and a good example of what we've lately been calling cybercriminal pen-testing.

“The MegaCortex attackers have taken the blended threat approach and turned it up to 11, by increasing the automated component to target more victims. Once they have your admin credentials, there's no stopping them. Launching the attack from your own domain controller is a great way for the attackers to inherit all the authority they need to impact everything in an organization.

“Organizations need to pay attention to basic security controls and perform security assessments, before the criminals do, to prevent attackers like these from slipping through” he said.

Remmy Nweke/DoP

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Pix: Sophos' Senior Security Advisor, John Shier.

Thumb up for FBN Holdings by shareholders with bright future - ITREALMS

ITREALMS: The shareholders of FBN Holdings Plc have been assured of brighter future and enhanced dividend at the 7th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos, reports ITREALMS.

Speaking at the meeting in Lagos, Dr Oba Otudeko, FBN Holdings Group Chairman, assured the shareholders that the company had mapped out strategies aimed at ensuring enhanced value creation for the future.

Otudeko said that the board and management would work together to create shareholder value and build strong foundation for the future.

"We are not resting on our laurels, and our renewed approach to synergy and innovation will be major drivers to unlocking earnings potential for our group.

"We believe that our efforts to integrate our offerings and provide end-to-end solutions for our customers will create a competitive advantage in our markets," he said.

Also speaking, Mr Urum Kalu Eke, Group Managing Director FBN Holdings, said that the company was committed to greater exploits in the future in its drive to deliver value to its shareholders.

" I would like to reiterate our promise to you and the entire market that 2019 represents for us the year of inflection.

"All leading indicators, derived from our numbers, point to the commencement of growth across businesses, markets and indices.

"As we transition to a new strategic planning cycle post-2019, we are confident that the focused execution of our strategy, investment in future-enabling technologies, development of our talents and our re-engineered processes to repositioning the group for ultimate benefit of the shareholders," Eke said.

He also commended the shareholders for their unwavering support to the group over the years.

The company for the period under review posted a profit after tax of N59.7 billion compared with N45. 5 billiin achieved in the comparative period of 2017, an increase of 31.4 per cent.

Profit before tax stood at N65. 3 billion against N54.5 billion recorded in 2017, representing a growth of 19.7 per cent.

Gross earnings stood at N583.5 billion compared with N595. 4 billion in 2017, a decrease of two per cent.

Its total assets rose by 6.3 per cent from N5.2 trillion in 2017 to N5.6 trillion during the review period.

Similarly, customers deposits expanded by 10.9 per cent from N3.1 trillion in 2017 to N3.5 trillion in 2018.

The year also recorded reduction in impairment charges which declined to N87. 3 billion from N150.4 billion, representing 42 per cent drop and a proof to the improving loan book of the commercial bank.

He assured the shareholders that the board and management had restructured the entire group for more sustainable growth.

"For liquidity perspective, you have a strong institution that would pay dividend on a regular basis.

"We have built capital buffet at the commercial bank and the other entities are well capitalised also.

"2019 promises to be a much better year than 2018; all operating entities are in safe hands with good management teams.

"NPL ratio should be at single digit by end of 2019, we will pursue recovery and when it happens the commercial bank will contribute to dividend payment," he stated.

Eke noted that significant growth in the bottom line was due to several factors including the improved risk management processes which endured that impairment changes dropped year-on-year.

He , also, attributed the growth to implementation of servers cost containment initiatives during the period.

Also speaking, Dr Adesola Adeduntan, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Chief Executive Officer, said that recovery efforts on all accounts provisioned were in progress.

Adeduntan said that the bank would ensure that no kobo would be left in the hands of third party, noting that, they bank would work harder to resolve all the legacy NPL.

He said that the number of banking agents had increased to 20,000, adding that the figure processed through agency banking platform reached N1 trillion as at last week.

The shareholders at the meeting approved a total dividend of N9.3 billion, which translated to 26k per share.

Chuks Egbune/Editor

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Fayemi optimistic on appointees performance - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has expressed optimism that the just concluded three-day retreat of top government functionaries in the state has fired up members of his cabinet and the leadership of the public service in the state for optimum service delivery, reports ITREALMS.

The state, according to him, would be better for it, as the commissioners, advisers, permanent secretaries and other heads of agencies resume work fully this week with renewed vigour and a well-articulated work ethics ready to meet set goals.

The Governor stated this on Saturday at the closing session of the retreat in Iloko Ijesa, adding that the appointees have been "fired up" to deliver the goods to Ekiti people as promised during the electioneering period.

Governor Fayemi spoke, just as the over 100 top government functionaries that participated in the retreat signed the code of conduct that was specifically designed as a guide to all the appointees, while the commissioners were given a week to sign and return the performance agreement document.

Fayemi stated that there was no doubt that the appointees “now know their mandate and what the deliverables are", adding that the vision would be shared with Directors and other senior government officials that did not attend the retreat.

He urged them to align the mandate with the budget of their ministries and translate same to concrete deliverables for the people.

Fayemi expressed optimism that with the readiness of the participants, there are exciting times ahead for the State.

" I am excited that all the appointees and the Permanent Secretaries are fired up now. They are very clear about what the mandate is; they are clear about what the deliverables are. They will now escalate this to their Directors and their own officials in order to align the mandate with the budget of their ministries and then communicate this to the various publics that we have to deal with", he said.

Also speaking, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon Biodun Omoleye, said the retreat signals the beginning of "the transformational governance" promised by Fayemi; adding that participants have been given a mandate charter which contains what is expected to be done and the timeline.

Omoleye said there are penalties for any appointee who fails to comply with the mandate charter.

The Head of Service, Mr. Deji Ajayi equally expressed the readiness of the leadership of the State Public Service to collaborate with the Fayemi-led administration in delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.

Ajayi said he had a meeting with all Permanent Secretaries at the retreat where they all agreed to work out the modalities for achieving set goals. He added that the service would give all to ensure the success of the Fayemi-led administration.

Highlights of the three –day retreat themed: “Restoring Ekiti Values: From Promise to Reality”, include technical sessions, side meetings and team building sessions as well as a comprehensive review of the first tenure of the Dr Kayode Fayemi administration and a projection for the 2018- 2022 administration.

Speakers at the retreat include renowned Public Administration Scholar and World Bank Consultant, Prof Ladipo Adamolekun; the first civilian Governor of the State, Otunba Niyi Adebayo; a former Sierra Leone Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Richard Konteh; Wife of the Governor, Erelu Bisi Fayemi; renowned Economist, Dr Ayo Teriba; Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi, Dr Otive Igbuzor; Prof Bolaji Aluko, Mr Jaiye Opayemi and Dr Goke Adegoroye , Dr Tayo Aduloju and Mr Muyiwa Ogunmilade.

Meanwhile, a committee headed by the Governor has been constituted to monitor implementation of the outcome of the retreat.  Members of the committee include: Secretary to the State Government, Head of Service ,  Director General, Office of Transformation, Strategy and Delivery (OTSD), and Director General  Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP). The Permanent Secretary,  Ministry of Budget and Planning will serve as secretary.

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