Fidelity Bank recommits to digital technology, adopts open banking - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

As part of its re-commitment, Fidelity Bank has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Open Technology Foundation (OTF) for the adoption of a standard Application Programming Interface (API) for its operations as a financial institution.

Open Banking is a system that provides a user with a network of financial institutions’ data through the use of application programming interfaces (APIs). The Open Banking Nigeria Standard defines how financial data and services should be created, shared and accessed. By relying on networks instead of centralisation, open banking helps customers to securely share their financial data with other financial institutions.

The bank recently took a bold step to further provide its consumers with improved services and solutions that meet their needs by leveraging the collaborative model of Open Banking. Through this partnership, Fidelity Bank would deepen its financial services delivery through appropriate and time sensitive channels whilst collaborating with other stakeholders within the ecosystem.

Open Banking has been seen as the most transformational financial technology over the next decade which has seen about 47 countries at various stage of implementation. Recently, the Central Bank of Nigeria signaled its intention to lead Africa in digital payments innovation with the request for information about the National Payments System Vision 2030 for which Open Banking is a strategic priority.

Additionally, Fidelity Bank has by this development, joined other leading banking and financial services industry players, who have not only adopted but are also promoting this mode of operation, which among other benefits would drastically consolidate customer satisfaction, grow revenue across diverse streams, promote financial inclusion, as well as assure a smooth but controlled data flow.

“As a digitally innovative and forward-thinking bank, we believe in the importance of investing in digital technologies and its significant contributions to shaping the future of banking globally” said Fidelity Bank CEO, Nnamdi Okonkwo.

“Therefore, this partnership with the Open Technology Foundation for the adoption of a standard, industry-wide API is a step in the right direction and is in alignment with our commitment to digital innovation, for the satisfaction of our customers” he explained further.

The Open Technology Foundation was established to analyse the need of the industry for a common API standard among banks and other financial institutions, develop the common API standards, provide a sandbox and other testing tools for certification, promote the adoption of an Open Banking standard with stakeholders across Nigeria, and to enable further innovation in the financial services industry.

“At Open Technology Foundation, it is our utmost delight to collaborate with players across the banking and services ecosystems for the introduction, adoption and promotion of Open Technology practices. We are convinced that this is one great move that would transform the financial space in Nigeria, with ripple effects across other industries in the country and by extension Africa,” said Ope Adeoye, a trustee of Open Technology Foundation.

Focused on select niche corporate banking sectors as well as Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Fidelity Bank is rapidly implementing a digital based retail banking strategy which has resulted in exponential growth with savings deposits tripling over the last five years and over 40 percent of customers enrolled on the Bank’s flagship mobile/internet banking products.

Chuks Egbune/Editor

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Ekweremadu opens up on IPOB attack in Germany, says its collective shame - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The immediate deputy Senate President, Chief Ike Ekweremadu has described his attack by some suspected members of Independent Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) in Germany as collective shame on Nigeria, reports ITREALMS.

Confirming his attack in Germany, Ekweremadu said  he attended the Second Annual Cultural Festival and Convention organised by Ndi-Igbo Germany in Nurnberg on Saturday, where he was billed to give a keynote address along with the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, who, however could not make it eventually.

"I was given a resounding welcome by Ndigbo in Germany and everything went smoothly until some men, who identified themselves as IPOB members stormed the venue and began to complain about the killings in the South East, stressing that there would be no Igbo event at the venue.

"I tried to engage them, but when they became unruly, I had to leave the venue. The organisers also invited the police and I was accompanied out of the venue.

"Much as I am disappointed in their conduct, especially as I am one of the persons, who have spoken up on justice for Ndigbo, the Python Dance, judicial killings in Igbo land and elsewhere both on the floor of the Senate and in my written and personal engagements with the Presidency as well as rallied the South East Senate Caucus to secure Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s release with Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe taking him on bail to douse tension in the South East, I nevertheless do not hold this to heart against them, for they know not what they do," he said.

Further, he revealed receiving thousands of solidarity calls and messages from well meaning Ndigbo and Nigerians, assuring of his safety.

"I want to assure them that I am hale and hearty. I have also spoken with the Nigerian Ambassador to Germany, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar," he said.

Remmy Nweke/DoP

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Why El-Zakzaky was deported from India - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Federal Government has revealed the reasons behind the deportation of the leader of Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), Ibraheem El-zakzaky from India over controversial medical trip, reports ITREALMS.

The Government, ITREALMS gathred had noted with dismay the acts of misconduct exhibited by El-zakzaky that necessitated his repatriation. .

The earlier statement of 14th August 2019 by the Government addressed the issues that would have raised some questions with the latest occurrences and particularly the uncelebrated return of El-zakzaky from India. The public may note that El-Zakzaky’s actions in India demonstrated malicious intents that were capable of embarrassing the Governments of Nigeria and India.

With total disrespect and complete loss of decorum for international procedures while in India, he initiated contacts with a team of lawyers led by Ali Zia Kabir Chaudary and Gunjan Singh in that country. He also contacted some Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), such as the Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC) and other Shiite groups. His aim was to seek asylum and eventually relocate to another country.

It is important to note that if an Indian court had granted El-zakzaky asylum or leave to travel to another country, it would have violated the Nigerian court order that granted him permission to travel for medical treatment. However, he used the opportunity of being in India to attempt to internationalise his cause by mobilising the Rights groups. Even most unfortunate and rather embarrassing as earlier stated, was his quest to be relocated to a 5-Star hotel to receive visitors instead of being admitted in the hospital as a sick person he claimed to be.

In spite of his misconduct, El-zakzaky’s spouse went further to antagonize the Indian and Nigerian security agents and accused the latter of killing her children. These acts were aimed at winning international sympathy as well as disparaging the Nigerian Government. Having subordinated the quest for medical treatment to other ulterior motives, it became obvious that El-zakzaky was focused on realising some sinister motives thus the decision to return him to Nigeria.

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#RevolutionNow: Preliminary notes by Edwin Madunagu - ITREALMS

Commentary@ITREALMS:

*Sowore and Prof Edwin Madunagu @ITREALMS

For the Nigerian Left, the strongest lesson of what may now be called Nigeria’s #RevolutionNow—that is, the August 5 mass protests organized by some young fragments of the movement—may be formulated as a warning: If Nigeria survives long enough from the current battering of the country’s ruling class, variants of what was attempted on August 5 may be attempted again and again until a spark leads to a national conflagration or a successful popular revolution resulting from a better conceived, planned and executed strategy.

Tinubu: KAB Olowu, foremost athlete gave Nigeria his all - ITREALMS

Tribute@ITREALMS Sports:

All Progressives Congress National Stalwart, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has described Alhaji Karim Ayinla Babalola ‘KAB’ Olowu who died on Wednesday in Lagos as a foremost athlete and Nigeria’s nationalist who gave his all to the country.

He said Papa Olowu represented Nigeria in many international sporting tournaments and brought back many important laurels, noting that the late KAB Olowu was that “Nigerian sprinter and long jumper who was part of Nigeria’s first delegation to the 1950 British Empire Games in Auckland, New Zealand (now Commonwealth Games).”

In a tribute on Thursday to the late Oloriebi (patriarch) of the Tinubu family he personally signed, Asiwaju Tinubu also said the late KAB Olowu’s life exemplified the goodness in the Tinubu family name.

“Many of us in the family grew up under his watch and mentoring for which we remain eternally grateful. I particularly drank from his fountain of knowledge and wisdom,” Tinubu said.

The emotional tribute titled “Alhaji Karim Ayinla Babalola ‘KAB’ Olowu (OON) Foremost Athlete, Philanthropist and Nigeria’s Nationalist,” reads: “Alhaji Karim Ayinla Babalola (KAB) Olowu (OON) gave his all to Lagos, to Nigeria and to humanity. He was a foremost athlete who represented the country in many international sporting competitions and came back home with many important laurels. On Wednesday August 14 when he passed on to eternal glory, he was one of Africa’s oldest, if not the oldest Olympians.

“Baba KAB was a philanthropist, committed nationalist and devout Muslim. He worshipped Allah with all his heart. From what he had, he pleasurably gave to mankind. He was the (Oloriebi) patriarch of the Tinubu family, taking over from his parents B.M.S. Olowu and R.A. Olowu (nee Tinubu). He was the first grandson of Madam Tinubu and Saka Tinubu. As the Oloriebe of the family, Alhaji KAB’s life exemplified the goodness in the Tinubu family name. He appreciably lived that name. Many of us in the family grew up under his watch and mentoring for which we remain eternally grateful. I particularly drank from his fountain of knowledge and wisdom.

“KAB made immense contributions to Lagos. He served as the Chairman, Lagos State Sports Council. He was also the Chief Starter at the 1973 All-Africa Games held in Lagos, Nigeria. Papa served the country through athletics and in many other capacities. His sporting career began at St Paul’s Primary School, Breadfruit, Lagos where in 1936 he represented the school at the Empire Day Athletics in commemoration of the British Empire Day celebrated in Britain and her colonies before Nigeria’s independence in 1960. At CMS Grammar School in Lagos, he was the Sports Prefect during his time.

“After his athletics career, he worked in the Nigerian Prisons Service. But he never left his love for sports. He was already working as a civil servant before he won a Federal Government scholarship to study Physical Education in Loughborough College Leicestershire, England in 1952 from where he graduated in 1955. To give back to society, he set up the sports complex at the Nigerian Prison in Kirikiri, Lagos where he worked for some years. He also set up the then Prisons Athletics club, which produced many athletes for Nigeria. He was for several years a prominent member of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).

“He believed in Nigeria and was irrevocably committed to her greatness. Even in his old age, he spoke and dreamt of Nigeria’s enduring greatness. The many laurels he won for the country and the honours he brought to Nigeria from many international tournaments are apt testimony to this immutable commitment to Nigeria.

“Papa’s laudable contributions in sports are worth recalling.  He was that Nigerian sprinter and long jumper who was part of Nigeria’s first delegation to the 1950 British Empire Games in Auckland, New Zealand (now Commonwealth Games). He was among the first group of Nigerians to participate in the Olympic Games and was particularly at the 1952 Summer Olympics Games. At the 1954 British Empire and Commonwealth Games held in Canada, he won silver medals in long jump and the 4 x 110 yards relay, becoming the first Nigerian athlete to win two medals at the Commonwealth Games.

“It was no surprise that as a result of these international sporting accomplishments, he became the first Nigerian to officiate at the 1966 Commonwealth Games in Kingston, Jamaica. He was Nigerian team manager to the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Canada. Later in 1992 at the Barcelona Olympics, he emerged the first Nigerian Olympic torch-bearer.

“Baba KAB would be sorely missed by family, friends, associates and all those who encountered him. My prayer is that Almighty Allah accept his soul and grant him Aljanna Fridaus. May He also imbue all of us in the Tinubu and Olowu families and indeed all those he left behind the strength to continue in his absence.”

Banji Boye/Editor

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Broadband too important for US to be disconnected - ITREALMS

Commentary@ITREALMS:

For the vast majority of us, broadband has become so commonplace in our professional, personal, and social lives that we rarely think about how much we depend on it. Yet without broadband, our lives would be radically upended: Our work days would look different, we would spend our leisure time differently, and even our personal relationships would exist differently.

But if broadband is an essential part of daily American life in the 21st century, how can we be comfortable with the fact that over 19 million households do not have a mobile or in-home subscription? Imagine if an electricity outage like the 2003 Northeast blackoutoccurred every day. Or if the Flint water crisis impacted the entire states of Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. That’s the scale of broadband disconnect this country experiences.

Simply put, the country needs to make an aggressive case to reach universal broadband adoption. But what does that even mean? Compared to electricity and water, do we understand all the ways broadband impacts individual and community wellbeing? Based on an initial scan of academic and applied research, the short answer is no.

With communities all across the country exploring ways to overcome the digital divide, and with Congress sending clear signals about the importance to address rural disconnect, now is an opportune time to help policymakers and practitioners understand the benefits of pursuing new infrastructure, public policies, and training programs. For us, that process begins with understanding where the current state of knowledge is clear and where it falls short.
What is broadband?

First, definitions matter. When we refer to broadband, we are referring to three distinct but interrelated parts of the sector. The first is the digital telecommunications infrastructure, whether wireless or wireline technologies, that enable high-speed exchanges of data. The second refers to actual use of broadband technologies, including data plan subscriptions and the digital skills it takes to use a physical broadband connection. The third encompasses the federalist policy frameworks that govern physical infrastructure and related programming. Though broadband’s colloquial definition tends to focus strictly on the transfer speed of the underlying technology, broadband infrastructure can only reach its potential if every individual can use the service, and if policy frameworks are in place to support ubiquitous adoption.
Broadband benefits: What we know

Since the advent of the internet, academics and practitioners have studied how broadband will transform the economy and society. As a result, it’s not hard to find research confirming the benefits broadband delivers to individuals and the communities where they live. Even better, much of this research now has given way to everyday wisdom.

Consider the labor market. It’s now routinely expected that job seekers will use the internet to more easily identify and apply for jobs that match their skill sets and interests. Research even suggests that the lower cognitive lift associated with online job searches could reduce instances of labor market discouragement. In turn, businesses reap benefits from e-recruiting by decreasing labor market search costs and achieving productivity gainsthrough increased efficiencies. Similar productivity gains can even be passed onto employees through higher wages and to consumers through lower prices. Broadband also helps employees increase their wages by sharpening their online and digital skill sets.

Broadband also has the potential to create happier, healthier, and more resilient societies. First, as an educational tool, broadband enables people to learn new skills to solve challenges or to develop new hobbies; it allows them to learn more about their health to better manage conditions and symptoms from home; and it can inform them about local issues, helping create tighter-knit communities. As a recreational tool, broadband increases and democratizes entertainment options, giving people more choice and freedom in how they spend their time. But it also democratizes information, allowing people to access new ideas, information, and resources from a variety of platforms. And as a social networking/communication tool, broadband makes it easier to maintain and connect with loose or physically distant social ties, helping people maintain a broader sense of community.

Lastly, broadband adoption has been shown to increase civic engagement. Since broadband reduces barriers to attaining information and interacting with local representatives, it increases the likelihood of voters voting, contributing to campaigns, and contacting their local representatives.

Broadband benefits: What we don’t know

Though there is a lot of excitement around broadband’s potential to reshape the economy, save the planet, or increase life expectancy, the technology is still in its early days and there is so much we don’t yet know. For one, we’re eager to see what effect the technology has on wealth generation and inequality. Though there’s early evidence that home values are higher in broadband-connected neighborhoods, there haven’t been enough robust studies on the topic for us to really understand how and to what extent wealth creation is happening. And since broadband helps raise incomes and build wealth for those with access, broadband is also likely to leave behind those without access. For that reason, it’s imperative researchers continue to study whether the digital divide is another contributing factor to the rising income inequality seen all across the country.

Given the wide range of technologies qualifying as broadband, we also don’t yet have standards around what universal broadband adoption would even look like. We’re left to wonder: Does broadband adoption at different speeds result in radically different outcomes? What is the minimum speed that should count in setting a universal standard? Do wireless and wireline adoption result in the same outcomes? And will the benefits look different across different geographies and socioeconomic groups?

Over the coming months, we’ll be exploring these questions in more detail. Relying on interviews with experts, number-crunching, and as much reading as we can handle, we hope to make clear the case for equitable broadband access across the United States so that everyone can enjoy its benefits.

We know how important broadband is to people’s physical, social, and economic health. With that knowledge, we need to keep building a narrative that reflects broadband’s essential status.

*Contributed by Lara Fishbane Senior Research Assistant -Metropolitan Policy Program and  Adie Tomer Fellow - Metropolitan Policy ProgramFellow - Metropolitan Policy Program from the Brookings Institute.

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Zinox, EdVigor partner to revolutionise education in Nigeria - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Sub-Saharan Africa’s technology giant, Zinox Technologies Ltd. has underlined its commitment towards improving the standard of education in the country. To this end, Zinox has partnered with EdVigor, an outreach of Harvard-trained resource experts versed in the development of learning curriculum to host a teacher empowerment workshop for beneficiaries in the education sector, reports ITREALMS.

The workshop is scheduled for the Alvan Ikoku College of Education (AICOE) on Friday August 16th, 2019 by 10am.

Already, anticipation is sky-high for the landmark event which is expected to better equip participants with the skills required for imparting knowledge in a technology-mediated, fast-evolving 21st Century. The event is expected to feature teachers from the host institution and others drawn from Imo State and other states in the South-East. Also expected is a team of Harvard-trained master teachers and curriculum developers from EdVigor as well as Management executives from Zinox.

Among the dignitaries and other guests expected to grace the event are the Governor of Imo State, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha; the Rector, AICOE; Heads of Schools and Institutions; CEOs, Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Organizations, Agencies, Parastatals and representatives of various MDAs, among others.

Participants at the event will be exposed to cutting-edge contents that will equip them to stimulate positive change in Nigeria, beginning from their classrooms.

Managing Director, Zinox Technologies Ltd., Mrs. Kelechi Eze-Okonta, affirms the determination of the company to play a leading role in revolutionizing education in Nigeria by empowering teachers with the right skills to create positive change.

“There is no gain-saying the fact that education is the bedrock of any modern society. Teachers remain arguably the most important component of any decent educational system. This underscores our partnership with EdVigor. Through this landmark initiative, we intend to reach and empower over 1000 teachers, beginning right here from Owerri, in South-East Nigeria.

“We expect to see the multiplier effect of this intervention on the performances and fortunes of students and other graduates. Indeed, our intention is to take this outreach to other parts of the country, even as we call on well-meaning Nigerians and other corporate bodies to join us.”

Founder, EdVigor, Nneamaka Enechi on her part, disclosed that schools remain a powerful platform for change. Therefore, she expressed confidence in the overwhelming benefits to be derived from the participants at the workshop.

“Through properly developed systems, schools can provide a powerful platform to prepare students for responsible citizenship. Therefore, in addition to content development, EdVigor equips teachers to use education as a tool for sustainable social change.

“Our sessions will deliver in-service teacher training to deepen teaching content, knowledge and skills. Furthermore, it will empower teachers to deeply reach out to their students and drive home knowledge in a seamless and better-understood manner.

“The long term plan is to groom local volunteer teachers. The workshop on Friday will also encourage participants to share best practices and to reflect critically on their craft,” she concluded.

Nenye Dom/Editor

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Makinde promises return of 3SC next league season - ITREALMS

ITREALMS Sports:

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, said on Wednesday that his government would transform the Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) and return it to the Nigerian Premier League, reports ITREALMS Sports.

Governor Makinde, who spoke at the Stakeholders Forum he hosted in the State of the Football Club at the Executive Council Chambers, Governor’s office, Agodi Ibadan, restated his government’s commitment to transform the 3SC and ensure that it reclaims its lost glory.

According to the Governor, the government was ready to motivate and properly fund the club so that it could achieve the objective of gaining promotion to the premier league.

This was as stakeholders of the club, including the General Manager, Rasheed Balogun; Team Manager, Dimeji Lawal and Supporters’ Club chairman, Oluwafemi Olaniyi, among others, commended Governor Makinde for his uncommon support to the 3SC in less than three months in office.

They noted that the club had not only been underfunded by the last administration, it was also not given enough moral support even when it gained promotion to the NPFL.

A statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, quoted the Governor as saying that that the club should be playing in the Nigerian Premier League, in view of its rich history and dedicated fan base across Nigeria and even Africa.

He maintained that the state government would “do whatever is necessary at this point; pick up the pieces and face the future to ensure that the club reclaims its lost glory.”

The Governor assured the stakeholders, including the management and the players of the club, that his government would properly motivate and fund the club by giving it the required resources.

He directed the management of the club to forward a proposal to his office on any areas where it needed to fortify.

The Governor stated that his utmost concern was how the management would work hard to achieve desired goals, adding that he would make changes that would give desired result.

He, however, urged them to remember that to who much is given, much is expected, noting that if it would take a miracle for the team to gain promotion, then that miracle would happen, because his becoming the Governor of Oyo state was also a miracle.

“What happened at your last match in Asaba, you know when people start saying maybe it was by some uncommon means that we lost the match…, then I will tell you that my sitting here is a miracle. So, I say that 3SC will be promoted this season. If it will take a miracle, we will make it happen.

“We will make changes that can give us the desired result, what is important is that the management and the players should do their own bit, we will motivate you and properly fund the club. But to whom much is given, much is expected.

“We will give you the required resources and attention because of the importance we attach to the club. When 3SC is not doing well, you are not the only one feeling the pain; the generality of our people also feel the pain.

“We will look for ways and means to make things happen fast within the limit imposed by the governance structure. I have listened to you, and we will take into consideration what you have said,” the Governor stated.

The Governor stressed that some of the problems identified by the stakeholders will be resolved by the Government, saying that “some of the challenges of 3SC are surmountable. I was in this state in the early 80s when Leventis United got promoted from Division 3 to Division 1 and in one season, won the Challenge Cup from Division 3.

“What 3SC mean to me is that it is a club that the generations of Makindes have been supporting. I am a die-hard Supporter of 3SC.

“3SC will definitely get promoted this season, if it will take a miracle, it won’t be anything new because you have a miracle Governor in the State. We have to make it happen and plan for it.”

Makinde declared that a Special Assistant would be appointed in the office of the governor in order to give the 3SC and Crown Football Club effective attention.

He also promised to attend some of the club’s matches.

The Governor asserted that his Government would not mix politics with sport administration in the state, saying that the only thing he cared about was to take 3SC to where it belonged in the country.

“We are not going to mix the sport administration with politics. I don't care where you belong politically, what I care about is that we will make 3SC sit where it belongs in Nigeria football. Nobody should be afraid of their job because of how you came.

Earlier the Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youths and Sports, Mrs. Olubisi Adegoke, attributed some of the challenges facing the club to lack of policy direction.

Adegoke also advocated for the establishment of Football Academy for the 3SC, where she said young players would be nurtured for future use.

On their part, the 3SC coach, Edith Agoye; the General Manager, Rasheed Balogun; Team Manager, Dimeji Lawal; the FA chairman, ObaJames Odeniran; the chairman of the Supporters’ Club, Oluwafemi Oyeniyi and the team captain, apologised to the governor over the failure of the club to secure promotion to the NPFL.

Agoye assured the governor that the club has competent players that could secure promotion to NPFL this season, asking, however, that the state looked in the direction of improving the funding of the club.

Lawal and Balogun also implored the governor to fund the club adequately and timely, even as they urged the governor to occasionally visit the players during training, as such would motivate the morale of the players.

The meeting was attended by the Chief of Staff, Chief Bisi Ilaka; Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Olubanwo Adeosun; and Head of Service, Mrs Ololade Agboola; Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Olawale Mogbonjubola, among others.

Banji Boye/Editor

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Data War: ALTON insists on NCC clarification, petition not intended to lock horns - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), has insisted on clarifications from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) over the looming data war influenced by the alleged several attempts by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to regulate telecommunications in the country, reports ITREALMS.

In an earlier response, NITDA had detailed a three-page statement over the allegations, outlining its legality under the NITDA Act and Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) among others, assuring stakeholders of ongoing synergy between NITDA and other regulatory agencies of government.

INTERESTING READ: Data war: NITDA reacts to ALTON allegation, assure...

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But in a follow up, ALTON insisted that despite all NITDA said, the organizational membership has been thrown into confusion and must get guidance from NCC more so since it has been petitioned.

“We wrote to the NCC for clarity because we are confused with the new regulations,” the Executive Secretary, Gbolahan Awonuga told ITREALMS.

Stressing that communication sector can no longer be at the receiving end all the time and their petition was for clarity from NCC and not setting agencies against each other.

He decried that the industry already have enough running battle on data and local content with NCC then comes NITDA, which majority of ALTON members know the end result.

“SANCTIONS! Already there are huge interconnect debts to be settled. Issue of multiple taxation is there. We want to connect the unconnected without affordable right of way and dependable infrastructure. We must face these challenges first if we need seamless broadband and internet of things. Power issues are there. Power batteries being stolen on daily basis, security men manning BTS sites killed before yanking off powered generator sets (not l better pass my neighbour) but massive one with hayabb truck,” he bemoaned.

Pointing out that ALTON has no short term benefit to gain in its initial letter to NCC as far as this issue is concerned, but rather a long and enduring benefits for it members.

“We are not political nor any of our members seeking government appointments but the interest of our members. We have worked with NITDA where necessary before and will continue to work with the agency,” ALTON Executive Secretary maintained.

INTERESTING READ: Data war looms: ALTON petitions NCC over NITDA’s a...

He contended that they wrote to the NCC for clarity because they were confused with the new regulations.

“Our members are responsible corporate citizens of Nigeria and natural partners in progress. We await our regulator response,” ALTON submitted.

Chuks Egbune/Editor

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India to deport El-Zakzaky over ulterior behaviour - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

The Indian government has insisted on deporting the leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), Sheikh Ibraheem EL-Zakzaky, who was in the country on medical tourism, reports ITREALMS. 

This, ITREALMS gathered may have been influenced by the ulterior behaviour of El-Zakzaky after departing Nigeria and even on arrival in India for the said medical tourism which is alleged to be turned into tourist visit.

Sources close to presidency, informed ITREALMS that Indian authorities have been frustrated by the antics of El-Zakzaky since arriving there a few days ago.

"Frustrated by his antics, the Indian authorities have expressed willingness to return him to Nigeria with immediate effect. This is on the account that they will not allow him use their country to internationalize his group’s activities," our sources declared.

Confirming the position of the Nigerian government, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Culture, Deacon Grace Isu Gekpe, noted that against this background, the Nigerian government has commended the stand of the Indian Government as well as apologized to her for the unruly behaviour of El-Zakzaky.

Further, she said, that similarly, the attention of the public and indeed the international community is hereby drawn to these unfortunate developments.

"The government also wishes to use this opportunity to affirm its readiness to undertake the prosecution of El-Zakzaky through due process if and when he is returned to the country. On this note, his foul cry that he is being held in circumstances worse than he was in Nigeria should be disregarded," she said.

ITREALMS recalls that the Court on 5th August, 2019 granted Sheikh Ibraheem EL-Zakzaky leave to travel to India for medical treatment. Consequently, the Government and its relevant agencies took steps to comply with the Order.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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Access to Finance: SEED, EdFin Microfinance partner to empower private schools - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Affordable private schools in Nigeria are providing a critical service to educate millions of our nation’s children, reports ITREALMS.

Unfortunately, these schools are often on the margins and do not have the resources to improve their infrastructure, teaching, and learning outcomes. 

To help overcome these obstacles, a groundbreaking partnership signing agreement took place on Wednesday, 14 August 2019 between Sustainable Education and Enterprise Development (SEED) and EdFin Microfinance Bank. Affordable private schools in Lagos can now benefit from SEED’s quality assessment and training as well as benefit from EdFin’s credit products for schools, teachers and parents.

Since 2016, SEED has provided development support services to over 700 affordable private schools in the six (6) Education Districts of Lagos State towards building lasting pathways to education quality. SEED will be deploying its proprietary tool SQAT (SEED Quality Assessment Tool), an innovative school development and continuous improvement tool, to catalyze transformation within these schools. The founder, Olanrewaju Oniyitan, was recently recognized by the Obama Foundation for her work with SEED & was selected as a 2019 Obama Africa Leader to further develop SEED’s impact on the continent.

Launched in 2019, Edfin Microfinance Bank is a pioneering institution dedicated exclusively to financing the education eco-space towards positively disrupting the standard and quality of education in Nigeria. Edfin MFB was founded in collaboration with Gray Matter Capital (GMC) USA; a US-based impact investor concerned with improving the quality of education for underserved children in developing countries. EdFin is focused on facilitating a more enabling environment for private schools in order for them to be able to offer quality education.

“Now that SEED and EdFin MFB have joined forces to increase access to quality education, parents and children in Nigeria can count on a dynamic collaboration to improve learning outcomes at our nation’s affordable private schools” says Olanrewaju Oniyitan. “We are thrilled that these schools can begin their transformational journey with SEED’s quality assessment and training as well as EdFin’s credit products for schools, teachers and parents!”

Uj. N. Dominic/Editor

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US shows appetite to develop industrial dialogue with Africa on LNG - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

With record-breaking US gas production this year, and the promotion of gas as a “cleaner, cheaper” energy source a continued priority for the current White House, the US Department of Energy is now looking towards Africa to develop opportunities in the exploration, production and monetization of LNG, reports ITREALMS.

In the words of Energy Secretary Rick Perry, “increased amounts of US LNG on the world market benefit the American economy, American workers, and consumers and help make the air cleaner around the globe.”

Appetite for imported gas is growing steadily across the African continent. Just recently, South Africa announced plans to open its first LNG import terminal in 2024. Meanwhile, US gas production is skyrocketing. Currently at 6 billion cubic feet (bcf) per day, production is forecast to grow to 10 bcf by the end of 2020. This confluence of circumstance makes Africa a common-sense partner for the US as it sets out to cement its position as an Energy superpower.

As part of this mission, Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy, Steven Winberg, will join 22 Pan-African ministers at the Africa Oil Week summit in Cape Town this November. He will use the event to share US energy policy points with the continent and outline a vision for deeper US commitment to Africa in the oil, gas and power sectors. This vision looks set to encompass increased two-way trade and investment between the US and Africa, with the US making potential capital available on joint-ventures and to part-finance LNG infrastructure for energy-lacking African countries.

The announcement of Secretary Winberg’s attendance to the summit comes alongside several major US private-sector investments into the African energy sector. ExxonMobil are making progress in Mozambique with their Rovuma LNG project in deepwater Area 4 block which contains more than 85 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. Particularly notable though is Anadarko’s recent announcement of its Final Investment Decision (FID) to construct a $20 billion gas liquefaction and export terminal in Mozambique, the largest single LNG project approved in Africa. A representative from ExxonMobil will be covering the Rovuma LNG project in Mozambique at Africa Oil Week and there will be strong presence from ENH and INP at the conference. Africa Oil Week is putting a renewed focus on the place of gas, with 5 dedicated sessions dedicated solely to LNG in the event programme.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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Something has happened to the Yorubas - ITREALMS

Commentary@ITREALMS:

Something has happened to the Yorubas. I don’t know precisely what it is. However, it is not a good thing. Of this I am sure, writes Moses Oludele Idowu. Excerpts:

Now a brief voyage into history.

In 1967 Nigeria was in a dire situation similar to what she is in now. Many have written about the similarities and seen the parallels between the two periods. But even in the midst of that chaos in 1967 the collective voice of the Yoruba’s rang out. As a matter of fact the Yoruba voice was the soundest, boldest and clearest in the midst of that cacophony of confusion, when even the government at the centre was in turmoil.

“If by any act of omission or commission the East is forced or allowed to secede from Nigeria, the West will also secede.”

That was Obafemi Awolowo, rising from the meeting of the Yoruba Delegates and reading the position paper collectively agreed by all the leaders of Yoruba. It was a clear statement, it was coherent and unambiguous. The whole speech itself is very short. Because it is when you don’t know what you are doing or saying that you ramble and perambulate.
That clarion voice from the Yoruba in unison roused the Military government and Gowon out of their slumber. In 1967 when Yoruba’s spoke Nigeria listens and came at attention. Africa listened and even the world took notice.
It was not an idle boast or an empty threat. They had the means to end Nigeria if they so desired. And the Yoruba’s warned Gowon that if they ever frustrated IBO’s out of Nigeria then they should not count on it that Yoruba’s would remain. If Nigeria was lopsided even with the East in Nigeria, then it would be more lopsided with only two regions left and Yoruba’s too would have to leave.
That was 1967. The statement was made loud and clear when a military government was in place, without any fear.
As a matter of fact only among the Yoruba’s was there a clarion voice of definite statement and demand. Which the military had to meet immediately. That was 1967.

Fifty two years after, you know something terrible has happened to this once- marvellous race.
How do I know that?

It can be seen in the discordant voices, staccato tunes and contradictory speeches emanating from kings, leaders and elites of Yoruba’s. You know there is trouble when you cannot decipher what is being said. You know there is a problem when leaders speak in parables at a time when plain language is required. In 1967 the leaders of the Yoruba’s spoke in clear, concise and coherent language, Awo was only reading what they agreed on. In 2019 i have not heard any such clear and unambiguous statement.

First it was the Ooni of Ife, with his statement which is so notable not so much for what it said as much as what it left unsaid. That statement is notable for its self- contradiction. First it says Yorubas would defend themselves. Then again, in another breadth, it was asking Buhari to help Yorubas to defend themselves. How will Buhari help you to defend yourself? Either he defends you or you defend yourself. That statement will remain a model of linguistic obscurity so common in Yoruba religion and metaphysics.

Then the Alaafin released his own Open Letter to Buhari and immediately reading that speech you could see the disagreement between his own position and that of the Ooni. Infact, the crux of the age- long feud was thinly veiled in that letter for those who can discern.

Then Obasanjo’s letter, which is more as a statesman rather than as a Yoruba man.

Within days of meeting Buhari, the Ooni was in Aso Rock again to meet Osinbajo, the Vice President.

Then all the notable Obas in Yoruba land went to Aso Rock to meet Buhari. And days after their meetings the Fulani herdsmen continued with their killings and kidnapping, without let and hindrance. Even two Wednesdays ago they still attacked motorists at Ogere, on the Expressway and last week the whole world heard the kidnapping of 5 RCCG pastors.

So nothing has changed and nothing is likely to change.
It is time our traditional rulers give themselves the honour and respect deserving of their offices. They are talking too much for their own good. Yoruba leaders are talking too much and it is not helping them. Perhaps they have not realized it.

Noise is a sign of weakness, not strength. It is a proof of how weak and weakened Yorubas now are. If Yorubas have not seen this, their antagonists can see it and they take notice.
When last did you see the Sultan in Aso Rock, or talking to the press? When was the last time you saw the Oba of Benin talking to the press?

In 1967 the Obas did not speak, they left that to their illustrious sons to do that. And that is how it should be.
In 1967 when Yorubas spoke a military government trembled and began to woo the Yoruba’s. In 2019 Yoruba leaders and kings have spoken and a civilian government does not even bat an eyelid. That is the proof that Yoruba have lost power, they have ceded ground to the enemy by a series of actions that are beyond the scope of my present investigation.
That is why I warn the Yoruba to be extra careful at this time and quickly do the right thing to regain what they have lost.

” Remember where thou has fallen and repent and do the first works…”, Jesus sent to a church in Ephesus but I think it is the best message to Yorubas at this time.
Today times have changed. 1967 is similar to 2019 but the dramatis personae are different. Will Yorubas incur defeat without war?

In 1967 Yoruba’s were the strongest and most united of all the regions, in 2019 it is the weakest and most disunited of all the regions.

The Southeast governors forum have spoken in unison and with one voice that they would have nothing to do with RUGA – so the Rugayats and the Rugacats can take notice. The Middle belt have spoken against great odds. Likewise the Nigerdelta have spoken. What of the Yoruba? Where is the Southwest?

They are meeting, summit upon summit with no head or tail, with no communiqué nor verdict.

David Thoreau was indeed right: “O consistency, thou art a virtue”.

Is it any wonder that Miyetti Allah is threatening all the governors in Yoruba land that they would be held responsible if anything happen to the Fulani’s in their midst. How about that? Did you see what I am saying? What power do they have to hold elected governor responsible in a civilian dispensation? But they can see the weakness and the disunity. That is the state we are now in.

I want to now move to the second part of this article: why Yorubas are divided at this time and why they are the weakest and most endangered.
There are now 3 divisions among the Yorubas. Yorubas can now be grouped into three separate and diametrically opposed groups. Let us look at each:

1. BOURDILLON TRAIN OR 2023 PROJECT

The first division among Yorubas now is what I call the Bourdillon Train or the 2023 project. These are the politicians, leaders, elites and officials who are angling for the return of power to Yoruba in 2023 and want to use the Southwest as a launching pad for that ambition. And their followers, hangers on, ruffians, coat hangers, touts etc. They have many government officials, legislators, ministers etc in this group and they control the Press, the Lagos- Ibadan axial press, the traditional power of the Yorubas. Because of their ambition nothing the Buhari administration does is wrong and Yoruba welfare and collective destiny are subordinated to the whims and the fulfilment of the ambition of one man. The good and welfare of future generations are sacrificed on the altar of one man’s ambition.
This group is further divided into three:

1. The 2023 proper whose ambition is rooted in the ambition of their leader and what they stand to benefit from it.

2. The Islamists

Make no mistake there are islamists among the Yorubas. They are not interested in democracy as in Sharia. It is real.
Remember that a former governor of Lagos state once confessed that some people have been putting pressure on him to go for Sharia? It was Bola Ahmed Tinubu who said it when Samson Ayorinde visited him.
Was it not an Alhaji, a Yoruba man who insisted a church must not stay around him during Raji Rasaq era for which cause Christ Chapel was demolished and uprooted? Was it not a Yoruba man who declared the birthday of Mohammed as public holiday, which is not even a public holiday in Saudi Arabia? Need I go on?
So make no mistake there are islamists among Yorubas and they would support anything Buhari government does whether good or bad.

3. The Religionists.
These are not islamists but they are committed Muslims. They know that Christianity is so entrenched in Yoruba land and will never be displaced by evangelism or whatever. So if RUGA will bring the Fulani’s and other people of their faiths that may graphically alter the religious demographic of Yoruba land then it is okay with them. Say what you like, this group will never move against Buhari nor protest his actions even if it is against the strategic interests of Yoruba land.
This is why Yoruba is divided today and cannot speak with one voice. These would subvert anything that appears to be mildly critical of Buhari, who they see as champion of Islam at this hour.

2. The OPPOSITION

The second group consists of those who are opposed to any move that may endanger the Yoruba and their interests. They are ready for anything to redeem the honour of the Yorubas come what may.

3. THE USEFUL IDIOTS

The third group among the Yoruba at this time is what I call, borrowing Marx’s expression, the “useful idiots.”
They are divided into two:

1. The Hallelujah chorus of Buhari and APC. As far as these are concerned Buhari is the best thing to happen to Nigeria. Mr. Integrity can do no wrong or see no wrong. Everything is okay. And woe betides you if you criticize Buhari.
Among these are educated and educated illiterates or certificated illiterates, who have gone through schools without learning anything. They are incapable of coherent, logical and independent thinking. They include the army of paid media men and women who recycle the lies and worn out rhetorics of nonsense of this ghastly government. They include the army of yes men, sycophants and jobbers eating from this government and thus cannot see anything wrong with its policies.

At the same time when the Nigerian Christian Elders Forum was writing the British Parliament about the dire situations going on in Nigeria, a Yoruba man was there countering them with lies and half truths.

At the same time when kidnapping and killings were still going on in Yoruba land it was another Yoruba man leading Buhari Campaign Organization in a solidarity visit to Buhari; and another Yoruba, the Vice President was busy telling those in the Diaspora that the kidnapping and terrorism issue are exaggerated beyond proportion.

Yoruba’s used to be known for plain speaking. Now they have become the masters of double speak. That is why you know that something has happened to this once- noble, regal race.

Then there is the army of know- nothings who due to no fault of theirs do not know the issues on ground. And do not understand them.

With all these divisions how will Yoruba ever speak with one voice?

What then is to be done?

The military is now to implement RUGA and 2019 budget has already provided for it according to what newspaper reports say. It is coming “by fire and by force.” At my lecture on The New World Order on Friday I mentioned the larger political and religious backgrounds driving this and as an angle of international manipulation.

So what then is yo be done?

Hear this from me: the Fulani herdsmen are already in the forests surrounding Yotubaland and they will not leave. Also Buhari is not going to do anything against them. Take it or leave it.

Kidnapping will continue and terrorism from herdsmen will not abate. The experience of the 5 RCCG pastors is fresh. Even two Wednesdays ago they still killed people at Ogere, based on what I heard.

So what is to be done?

Let every town and village in Yoruba land raise its own militia yo defend its territory and police as ts forests. It is allowed under the law. It is logical.

The law allowed citizens to apprehend anyone breaking the law. It is not only police that can arrest under the law. Any citizen can arrest a law breaker and kidnapping is law- breaking.

They should be trained by ex- servicemen in their midst and armed with every weapon they can lay their hands on. After all the herdsmen carry weapons and it is illegal and no one is disarming them. If a group can carry weapons to do evil another group too can carry them to do good, to enforce the law and assert the Constitution. ” The law is not made for the righteous man but for the lawless “- St. Paul.

” In a state if lawlessness it is criminal yo be law abiding “.- Fidel Castro.
Many will condemn me for saying this. Yoruba do- gooders, lizards, trying to play safe and engage in double speak… Yoruba vacillation. But this is time for truth- speaking. Something is not right. You can fight now or fight later with a diminished strength.

This is the last time I will write or say this. But remember time is running out. Soon we shall know who is right.

The most dangerous place for a nation or tribe to be is not to be defeated in war or lose in battle. The worst humiliation is to procure a “defeat without war.” Something is telling me that Yoruba’s especially by their vacillation and disunity are about to make this gamble.

A word for the wise is enough.

Copyright©️ Moses Oludele Idowu ( August 6, 2019) courtesy: ScanNews.

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Finchglow Travels Train Trade Partners In Abuja - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Nigeria’s leading Travel Management Company (TMC), the Finchglow Travels, has trained trade partners in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, reports ITREALMS.

The training which focused on the theme 'Collaboration to Achieving Results, the organisers said came at the time when technology is predicted to take over businesses in the coming years, the essence of the training was to educate trade partners on the latest trends and technologies in the business, as well as how to maximize these opportunities into profitability.

The Group Chief Operating Officer (GCOO), Finchglow Travels, Mr. Ezekiel Ikotun, in his opening remark says: “Finchglow Travels has been in existence since 2006, we have seen the ups and downs of this business without forgetting the days of BSP, yet we are thankful that we are here today. 

"We understand that it takes courage to remain in this business starting from the operating environment to many other areas which has unfortunately led to the extinction of many renowned travel agencies,” he said.

“Based on this reason, at Finchglow Travels we decided to show our trade partners what we know. The purpose for organizing today’s trade partners’ forum is to foster business sustainability for our trade partners. We recognize your influence in our businesses and we can’t deny that your efforts have been remarkable. We want this to continue; hence we set up this forum to educate you,” he submitted.

While delivering a lecture on the latest trends in the industry, Mr. Ikotun spoke of the New Distribution Capability (NDC), a travel industry-supported program launched by IATA for the development and market adoption of a new, XML-based data transmission standard (NDC Standard). He urged agencies to embrace it the moment the NDC is activated in Nigeria as it will enhance communications between airlines and travel agents.

Remarkably, Mr. Ikotun also announced the launch of Finch Trade PartnerPlus, a platform that allows the trade partners to be able to enjoy feature-rich tailored travel products and services to help trade partners enhance existing product and service portfolio and achieve incremental growth.

Uboshe Uboshe/Editor

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Pix: Mr. Ezekiel Ikotun, Group Chief Operating Officer (GCOO), Finchglow Group flanked by representatives from Emirate Airline, RwandAir, Amadeus and some travel agencies who participated in the Finchglow Travels Trade Partners Forum in Abuja.

Verve Global Card launches 1st international transaction in New York - ITREALMS

ITREALMS:

Leading payments technology and card business in Africa, Verve and Discover Global Network have launched Verve Global Card, reports ITREALMS.

Cardholders, ITREALMS gathered, will now have the ability to use their Verve Global Cards on the Discover Global Network which provides acceptance in more than 190 countries and territories. This will expand Verve’s existing suite of tailored payment products and solutions for its customers.

The first transaction occurred today at Swarovski in New York City. Senior executives from First Bank, Access Bank and Fidelity Bank purchased various items from Swarovski using their Verve Global Card on the Discover Global Network.

The agreement with Discover Global Network will facilitate new international and cross border transaction capabilities for Verve Global Card customers, meeting the needs of its increasingly global customer base. Holders of the new card can make payments outside Africa on the Discover Global Network which includes anywhere Discover, Diners Club International and Pulse and affiliate network cards are accepted. Verve Global Card also delivers additional benefits to cardholders including broad reward and loyalty schemes; benefits that are available both locally and internationally.

Mitchell Elegbe, Interswitch Group Managing Director, commented on the announcement: “The agreement with Discover Global Network will enable Verve to compete with other global card offerings, providing cardholders with an enhanced customer experience when transacting globally outside Nigeria. Creating a solution which facilitates international payments for our consumers will help to eliminate existing barriers and simplify the process when transacting abroad.”

“It is important to us that we are working with groups around the world to extend acceptance for their cardholders,” said Ricardo Leite, senior vice president of international markets at Discover. “At Discover, we recognize the importance of being able to use your card of choice no matter where you are traveling.”

Mike Ogbalu III, Verve International Divisional Chief Executive Officer, also commented on the announcement saying, “The launch of the Verve Global Card, provides consumers with the ability to transact globally across the US and other countries, addressing challenges that many Nigerians have experienced while travelling abroad. Our partnership with Discover Global Network will help us to optimize the overall experience of every Verve Global card holder by guaranteeing consistent and efficient payment solutions regardless of where they are in the world”.

ITREALMS recalls that Verve is Interswitch Group’s innovative card scheme, offering products and solutions that enable consumers to transact all over Nigeria and across international markets. As the first African card scheme to be recognized as a valid, globally accepted e-payment gateway, we have built a world-class value chain ecosystem that benefit from the services that we provide.







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Pix: VERVE CARD GOES GLOBAL! L-R: Mitchell Elegbe, Founder/GMD, Interswitch Group, Joseph Hurley, Snr. Vice President, Payment Services, Discover Financial Services, Francis Gbenga Shobo, Deputy Managing Director, First Bank, Olubusola Osilaja, Divisional head, eBusiness, Access Bank, Martins Izuogbe, Divisional Head, Operations, Fidelity Bank, Diane Offereins, Executive Vice President, Payment Services, Discover, Chuma Ezirim, Group Executive, Retail, E-Business, First Bank, and Mike Ogbalu III, Divisional CEO, Verve, at the Verve Global Card Launch in New York, on Monday.