Heartfelt farewell to my dear friend, Solomon Arase by Sir Folu Olamiti - ITREALMS

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The passing of Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, CFR has left me profoundly shaken. He departed far too soon, leaving behind not only a towering legacy but also cherished memories that continue to stir my heart.

Only days before his transition, he had read a profile piece about himself on Newspot Online Newspaper published on 16 August 2025. Almost immediately, he rang me, curious to know the author.

How to ensure AI doesn’t overlook your brand by Reuben Kalu - ITREALMS

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Marketing is changing fast. The way people search, ask questions, and discover brands is no longer confined to search engines and typed queries.

The future of marketing is not typed — it’s AI-powered and conversational.

WAIFEM DG, Baba Musa, emerges 45th President of Nigerian Economic Society - ITREALMS

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The Director General of the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM), Dr. Baba Yusuf Musa, has been elected as the 45th President of the Nigerian Economic Society (NES), reports ITREALMS.

Dr. Musa, who until his election was Vice President and Council Member of the Society, succeeds Professor Adeola Adenikinju at the close of the NES 66th Annual Conference in Abuja on Thursday. His election is seen as one of the high points of the gathering which brought together top policymakers, academics, and global thought leaders.

Oyo launches AfCFTA implementation strategy Friday - ITREALMS

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... Says move will accelerate economic growth, boost livelihoods

The Oyo State Government will on Friday, September 12, 2025, launch its African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Implementation Strategy, marking a historic milestone in Nigeria’s sub-national economic integration drive, reports ITREALMS.

Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’s administration said the strategy reflects its commitment to expanding Oyo State’s economy, boosting trade opportunities, and improving livelihoods.

TETFund chair, Aminu Bello Masari to keynote GOCOP’s 9th annual confab - ITREALMS

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A former Speaker of the House of Representatives and immediate past Governor of Katsina State, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, will deliver the keynote address at the 2025 Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) annual conference, reports ITREALMS.

The confab is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

Dangote Cement pays over N3.3trn in dividends to shareholders in 15 years - ITREALMS

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... Vows to transform Africa by making it self-sufficient in cement, clinker

Shareholders of Dangote Cement Plc have received over N3.3 trillion in dividends over the last 15 years. Aside from this impressive dividend payout, the shareholders have also significantly benefited from the capital appreciation of the cement stock.

The benefits to the shareholders were disclosed on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange last Wednesday during the “Facts Behind the Figure” presentation, by the Management and Board of Dangote Cement, which was ably led by the new Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Ikazoboh.

NITMA 2025 to celebrate people power in Nigeria’s digital transformation - NITMA

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The 2025 National Information Technology Merit Awards (NITMA), billed for November 20 at MUSON Centre, Lagos, will not only be another award night but also a celebration of people driving Nigeria’s digital transformation story.

According to the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), this year’s award categories were carefully crafted to spotlight individuals and institutions making a tangible difference in the lives of Nigerians through technology.

Anambra’s November Election: Decency, not desperation, must prevail by Chuka Nnabuife - ITREALMS

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Preparations for Anambra State’s gubernatorial election on 8 November are in full swing, raising hope that the state may once again find itself under leadership capable of steering her towards progress and stability.

Yet such optimism could easily sour if the victor emerges through fraud, violence or manipulation. A candidate propelled by forged qualifications, bribed officials or shady political dealings may win office, but Anambra will lose. Victory achieved by “any means necessary” would not only undermine governance but poison the moral fabric of society.

NASENI, NiDCOM team up to harness diaspora tech power - ITREALMS

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The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at leveraging the expertise, creativity, and skills of Nigerians in the diaspora to drive homegrown innovation and technological advancement.

During a working visit to NiDCOM headquarters in Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, and the Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the collaboration as a timely intervention designed to bridge Nigeria’s innovators at home with professionals abroad, including scientists, engineers, technologists, and entrepreneurs.

Ezekwesili slams Senate over suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan - ITREALMS

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Renowned public policy advocate and founder of the School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG), Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, has issued a strongly worded memo to the Nigerian Senate, judiciary and citizens, describing the prolonged suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as a grave constitutional breach and existential threat to democracy, reports ITREALMS.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was suspended on March 6, 2025, following allegations of sexual harassment she made against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. 

CBN unveils Payments System Vision 2028 - ITREALMS

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…sets blueprint for inclusive, innovative, and secure financial ecosystem

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has launched the Nigeria Payments System Vision 2028 (PSV 2028), a new strategic framework designed to shape the future of the country’s digital financial ecosystem and position Nigeria as a global leader in payments innovation.

Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the PSV 2028 Project Committee in Lagos on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, the Director of the Payments System Policy Department (PSPD), Mr. Musa Itopa Jimoh, described the initiative as a “national assignment” capable of transforming the way individuals, businesses, and government interact within the financial system.

Lagos Mainland Trade Fair: Entrepreneurs gain export skills - ITREALMS

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The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) played a pivotal role at the maiden edition of the Lagos Mainland Trade Fair, held on September 6 and 7 at Yard 158, Kudirat Abiola Way, Ikeja, by equipping entrepreneurs with vital skills for international trade.

At the two-day fair, Senior Trade Officers from NEPC, Nancy Okpa and Olamide Olatunde, provided step-by-step guidance on export procedures, stressing the importance of compliance with international standards. 

TD Africa, IBM unveil innovation strategies @GITEX Nigeria 2025 - ITREALMS

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Africa’s leading technology distributor, TD Africa, proudly participated in the just-concluded GITEX Nigeria 2025, held for the first time in the country from September 1st to 4th. The exhibition, hosted at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre, brought together global tech leaders, professionals, and exhibitors showcasing innovations in AI, IoT, cybersecurity, fintech, and more.

In collaboration with IBM operated by MIBB, TD Africa demonstrated its commitment to empowering individuals and businesses across Africa through technology and innovation. Their joint presence at the exhibition drew significant attention from industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators alike.

Natasha: Memo to the Nigerian Senate, judiciary and fellow citizens by Obiageli Oby Ezekwesili - ITREALMS

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The Senate’s Constitutional Overreach in the Case of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Democracy Dies When Laws Become Weapons and Lawmakers Become Serial Lawbreakers.

Six months have passed since the unconstitutional suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on March 6, 2025. The Senator, representing the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District, was suspended following her allegation of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

May, Obioma, Olugbile emerge finalists @The Nigeria Prize for Literature 2025 - ITREALMS

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The race for Africa’s most prestigious literary honour, The Nigeria Prize for Literature, has reached its climax as the Advisory Board on Thursday announced the three finalists for the 2025 edition of the competition.

In contention for the $100,000 prize, sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), are Oyin Olugbile, with her novel Sanya; Chigozie Obioma, with The Road to the Country; and Nikki May, with This Motherless Land. The eventual winner will be unveiled at a grand award ceremony scheduled for October 10, 2025.

NUPENG suspends strike after nationwide fuel loading paralysis, Dangote agrees to unionisation - ITREALMS

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The Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has suspended its two-day strike following a breakthrough agreement with the Dangote Group, brokered on Tuesday by the Department of State Services (DSS).

The industrial action, which began Monday despite federal appeals, had paralyzed fuel loading nationwide. 

End-User Billing adoption: Telecoms gain, banks lose by Remmy Nweke - ITREALMS

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The shift to End-User Billing (EUB) for USSD in Nigeria signals a turning point in digital finance. Telecoms secure direct revenues, banks lose billing control, and customers confront new realities. In this week’s Telecoms Clinic@ITREALMS, REMMY NWEKE, unpacks the winners, losers, and implications for financial inclusion.

Preamble:
The introduction of the End-User Billing (EUB) framework for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) in Nigeria represents one of the most significant policy shifts in the country’s digital finance ecosystem.

ADITOP accuses NUPENG of extortion, excessive levies on tanker owners - ITREALMS

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The Association of Distributors and Transporters of Petroleum Products (ADITOP) has accused the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) of extortion and excessive levies collection within the downstream sector.

This accusation came on the heels of a vote of no confidence passed on the leadership of NUPENG by the Lagos Zone of Petroleum Tanker Drivers Branch of the union (PTD). 

Official! Sujimoto CEO defrauds Enugu State govt N5.7bn - ITREALMS

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The Enugu State Government has accused the CEO of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, Olasijibomi Ogundele, of defrauding the state of nearly N6bn, noting that Ogundele vanished into thin air after he was paid the said sum for the construction of 22 Smart Green Schools in different parts of the state.

The government also accused Ogundele of premeditated fraud, explaining that while he presented a bond issued by Jaiz Bank to secure the contract, he used the company’s Zenith Bank account registered with the state’s Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to receive the said payment, making it impossible for the state to hold Jaiz Bank liable.

Zinox shakes GITEX Nigeria'25 with ₦15m donation to NCS, CPN, boosts digital education - ITREALMS

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The 2025 edition of GITEX Nigeria ended on a remarkable note with a strong show of corporate philanthropy from Zinox Technologies, Nigeria’s foremost indigenous ICT company and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), reports ITREALMS.

At the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos, Zinox Chairman, Leo Stan Ekeh, stunned stakeholders when he announced a combined ₦15 million donation to two key professional bodies driving Nigeria’s digital ecosystem; the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) and the Computer Professionals (Registration) Council of Nigeria (CPN).

AfriTECH 5.0: Experts set to debate AI & Sovereign Tech for Africa’s digital independence - ITREALMS

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The Africa Tech Alliance Forum (AfriTECH 5.0), one of the continent’s foremost technology gatherings, is set to hold its fifth edition on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos.

Now in its fifth year, AfriTECH has established itself as a premier annual convergence for thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, investors, startups, academics, and civil society to shape Africa’s digital future.

Telecom, fintech leaders push for strategic partnerships, inclusive policies @WATISE 2025

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The 2025 edition of the West Africa Telecommunications Infrastructure Summit & Exhibition (WATISE) concluded in Lagos with a resounding call for governments, regulators, and industry players to deepen collaboration, protect telecom infrastructure, and accelerate inclusive digital access across the region.

Held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Lagos, the summit convened key stakeholders from the telecommunications, technology, and financial services sectors under the theme: “Digitalising the West African Economy: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities for Critical Stakeholders.”

1m laptops: Zinox partners KongaCares to computerise schools - ITREALMS

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GITEX Nigeria 2025 was not only a great success but also a landmark event that showcased Nigeria’s rising stature in the global technology space, attracting thousands of technology professionals and stakeholders from across the continent. 

Among the most astounding highlights was the official unveiling of the Computerise Nigeria Initiative by Nigeria’s integrated ICT solution company and OEM Zinox Technologies, in partnership with KongaCares, at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos.

Violent Extremism: PAVE Network petition NHRC over incendiary comments by politicians, clerics, monarchs - ITREALMS

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•Inaugurates FCT chapter

The Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) Network (PCVE-KIRH) has announced plans to petition the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to investigate politicians, clerics, monarchs, and other influential citizens who use their platforms to incite violence.

According to the Network, the outcome of such an inquiry could serve as the basis for legal action against perpetrators, as part of wider efforts to counter violent extremism in Nigeria.

NCS fixes November 20 for NITMA 2025, set to honour IT trailblazers - ITREALMS

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The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) has officially announced that the 2025 National Information Technology Merit Awards (NITMA) will hold on November 20, at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, reports ITREALMS.

NCS President, Dr. Muhammad Sirajo Aliyu, disclosed this during a press briefing, last weekend in Lagos, noting that the event would recognize and reward outstanding individuals, institutions, and governments that have contributed to advancing Information Technology (IT) development in Nigeria and beyond.

CBN Governor Cardoso reaffirms commitment to macroeconomic stability, stronger banking sector - ITREALMS

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The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, has reiterated the Bank’s commitment to restoring macroeconomic stability, strengthening the banking sector, and positioning Nigeria as a leading investment destination.

Speaking at a fireside chat with Andreas Voss, Chief Country Representative of Deutsche Bank Nigeria, during the European Business Chamber (Eurocham Nigeria) C-Level Forum in Lagos on Saturday, September 6, 2025, Cardoso said the ongoing bank recapitalisation exercise is “making good progress” and will produce stronger institutions capable of withstanding shocks and financing growth.

Bama massacre: Families mourn as UN decries killing of over 50 civilians - ITREALMS

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Shock and grief have gripped Darajamal village in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State after suspected non-state armed groups launched a deadly night attack that left more than 50 people dead, homes reduced to ashes, and families torn apart, reports ITREALMS.

Eyewitness accounts describe panic as villagers fled into the darkness, some carrying children, others abandoning belongings as gunmen swept through their community. 

PTD mocks NUPENG over threats to Dangote, tells drivers 'Ignore strike notice on Monday' - ITREALMS

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The Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) has ridiculed the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) over its escalating leadership crisis, and for its lack of coordination and wisdom to peacefully mitigate the cold war between the union and the management of Dangote refinery.

The tanker drivers also called for the immediate arrest of the leaders of NUPENG by law enforcement agents especially the Inspector General of Police and the Director-General of DSS so as to allow peace in the country and make Nigerians embark on their daily and legitimate businesses without any fear or molestation.