AGROVESTO, a fast-rising agritech startup and graduate of the iHatch Incubation Programme’s second cohort, has released findings from a groundbreaking survey centered on the digitization of agricultural supply chains in Nigeria. The survey, conducted in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS), explores the transformative potential of digital tools for smallholder farmers across the country.

The initiative aims to address longstanding challenges in Nigeria’s agricultural sector chief among them inefficient logistics, post-harvest losses, and market inaccessibility by empowering farmers through technology-driven supply chain solutions.

Speaking at the launch of AGROVESTO’s digital agriculture platform, the Director General of NITDA, Mr. Kashifu Inuwa, who was represented by Dr. Amina Sambo-Magaji, reiterated NITDA’s strategic mission to accelerate Nigeria’s digital future. “Collaboration with partners like JICA is key to driving capacity building, startup incubation, and vital resource access for innovators nationwide,” she said.

The event, which spotlighted AGROVESTO as a prime success story, also reaffirmed the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI)’s commitment to building an inclusive digital economy. Dr. Sambo-Magaji highlighted that such platforms exemplify NITDA’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and enabling environment where government backed innovation becomes a launchpad for digital excellence across all sectors.

She further stressed that digitizing agricultural supply chains presents a sustainable solution to food security and economic empowerment. “Our survey findings show that digital interventions are reducing bottlenecks in farm-to-market logistics, expanding access to finance, and improving the livelihood of small-scale farmers,” she noted.

Dr. Sambo-Magaji also highlighted the broader context of Nigeria’s tech-driven growth. “The country’s startup ecosystem is among the most vibrant in Africa, driven by youth-led innovation in sectors such as fintech, agritech, and health tech,” she stated.

Nigeria’s fintech sector, home to over 200 active startups including global names like Paystack, Flutterwave, and Paga, serves as a blueprint for success in other sectors. These companies have not only attracted global investment but also transformed access to financial services for millions. The acquisition of Paystack by Stripe for over $200 million was cited as a testament to the global competitiveness of Nigerian innovation.

Central to the country’s innovation agenda is the *iHatch programme* a joint initiative between NITDA and JICA. This incubation programme equips startups with training, mentorship, seed funding, and access to key networks and innovation hubs.

As Nigeria continues to embrace digital transformation, AGROVESTO’s efforts backed by robust institutional support are paving the way for a more resilient, efficient, and inclusive agricultural sector. The survey marks a critical step in shaping policy, investment, and innovation strategies that will benefit Nigeria’s smallholder farmers and the nation’s economy at large.

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The Ray-Ban Meta Display glasses, launched at the Connect 2025 conference in California, feature cameras, microphones, speakers, and a small display that provides notifications, translations, and navigation. The glasses are controlled using a wristband that tracks hand gestures.

Priced at $799, the Ray-Ban Meta Display will be available in the US from September 30, with an international rollout expected in 2026.

Meta also announced the Oakley Meta Vanguard, a performance-focused smart glasses line for athletes, priced from $499. The glasses feature a 12MP action camera, fitness app integration, and nine hours of battery life.

In addition, the company revealed a second generation of Ray-Ban AI glasses, offering longer battery life, Ultra HD video recording, and new frame options. The updated model starts at $379 and will launch in select global markets later this year.

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The updates include “Edit with AI,” which allows creators to transform raw footage into Shorts with transitions, background music, and AI-generated voiceovers available in English and Hindi. The feature, still experimental, will initially roll out in India and select markets.

Google said all AI-edited Shorts will carry SynthID watermarks and labels to indicate they were generated using artificial intelligence.

Other announcements included tools to convert podcasts into video and Shorts, a new rewards system for music fans, and upgrades to YouTube Studio such as an AI-powered support chatbot, title A/B testing, and likeness-detection tools.

Since its launch in 2005, YouTube has hosted more than 20 billion uploads. The company revealed it has paid over $100 billion to creators, artists, and media companies since 2021, with the number of channels earning above $100,000 annually from connected TVs rising 45% year-on-year.

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Lagos, Nigeria – June 5, 2025; In a bold reaffirmation of its mission to bridge the gender and economic divide through financial inclusion and promoting literacy, HerVest, an inclusive fintech platform, convened a diverse audience of professionals, entrepreneurs, and young changemakers for the third edition of its flagship event, ValueUp 3.0. Held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the Shell Hall, Muson Centre in Lagos, the event was themed ‘Financial Wellness: Adapt, Grow & Thrive’, and explored practical strategies for building financial resilience and achieving long-term economic stability.

Delivering her opening remarks, the event convener and Chief Executive Officer of HerVest, Solape Akinpelu said; “The journey to an equitable and prosperous society is not an isolated one. It starts with me and you and to everyone in the room whose presence embodies the possibility of equal opportunities.Financial inclusion for us is not just about access to money. Rather, it is about access to knowledge, networks, and long-term growth.”

“This year’s theme challenges us all to not just pursue success, but to be financially and emotionally prepared for the future. When I started HerVest, it wasn’t just an ambition. It was out of a quiet conviction that women’s financial growth should be normal, not extraordinary. It was born out of a desire that access, and capital should be available, woven around women’s realities and peculiarities such as the unpaid labour, biological functions leading to career and business pauses amongst others.”

Akinpelu stated further that “financial literacy and inclusion are catalysts for change. We are building an ecosystem where women are equipped with the skills and resources needed to lead financially empowered lives. We will continue to create spaces where people can learn, grow, and build a prosperous future.”

In her keynote address, the Founder of Beyond Limits Global and Former Director at Google West Africa, Dr. Juliet Ehimuan, stressed the critical need for individuals to recalibrate their understanding of wealth beyond income or status, particularly in today’s evolving economic landscape and the need to have the courage to make informed financial decisions. “We must embrace change, harness the power of technology, and take bold steps toward economic independence. The goal is no longer just financial access, but financial adaptability,” Dr. Ehimuan said.

This year, the ValueUp 3.0 event featured three deeply engaging panel sessions that addressed entrepreneurship, career development in the digital age, and strategic wealth building. The entrepreneurship panel, titled ‘From Side Hustle to Scalable Venture: What It Takes,’ had respected voices like popular Costume designer, Film & Television Yolanda Okereke, Guinness World-record Chef, Food Entrepreneur & Television Personality, Hilda Baci, and Founder, Caladium Consulting, Ayo-Bankole Akintujoye, share personal insights into the discipline, systems, and support structures needed to grow informal businesses into scalable ventures. Usman Imanah moderated the session, steering conversations around opportunity identification, resilience, and fundraising.

In the second panel, ‘Thriving in the Age of AI and Remote Work,’ the panel speakers including Partner, Alan and GrantGbenga Totoyi; Head of People Strategy & Operations, Flutterwave, Victoria Vodunnu; Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer, TRACE, Ego Obiegbunam, and the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, explored how the modern workforce must evolve to meet the demands of technology-driven economies. The speakers delved into how the lines between work, purpose, and wellness are increasingly blurred, emphasising the importance of emotional intelligence, upskilling, and flexible career trajectories. The session was moderated by Tobi Alaka of Empowher NG.

The third session, ‘Wealth for the Next Generation: Investing with Purpose,’ examined the strategies for building intergenerational wealth and using money as a tool for impact. The panelists Head, Youth Banking, Wema Bank, Bunmi Ayodele; Head, Investment Banking, Meristem Capital Limited, Rasaki Salawu; the Kwara State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hon. Oloruntoyosi Adebayo-Thomas, and Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, TVC Communications, Victoria Abiola Ajayi, unpacked the principles of financial literacy, intentional investing, and long-term financial planning. The Group Treasurer, OANDO Plc, Peju Faloye moderated the dialogue, which reinforced the idea that wealth creation should be deeply personal and purpose-driven.

A standout moment from the event was the fireside chat with popular chess advocate and Guiness World record holder, Tunde Onakoya, and celebrated leadership coach and Chief Executive Officer of IMMERSE Coaching Company, Debola Deji-Kurunmi (DDK), moderated by Solape Akinpelu. The conversation was anchored on personal transformation and community impact, with both speakers highlighting how mastery, mentorship, and value-based leadership can serve as a compass for economic and personal growth.

Beyond the knowledge-sharing sessions, the event highlighted HerVest’s ongoing commitment to democratising financial access to women across Nigeria, particularly those in underserved communities. Having impacted over more than 10,000 female farmers and entrepreneurs across states including Borno, Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Niger, Oyo, Kwara, and Ogunamong others, the inclusive fintech platform remains at the forefront of promoting financial inclusion through its competitive savings returns, easy to access credit facilities, agro-investments, and various gender-driven financial literacy resources.

While it continues to create opportunities for financial wellness through its inclusive digital platform for its growing 80,000 members, HerVest has processed more than N3,000,000,000billion worth of transactions on its innovative platform, providing adequate support for women farmers, entrepreneurs and those on the fringes of financial services across rural, urban, and peri-urban areas access credit, help them save, get the required literacy and other tools that foster sustainable growthand the desired financial stability.

In addition, HerVest has facilitated the farming of more than 1,235 acres of farmland to smallholder women farmers in local communities across different states in Nigeria to further bridge the financial dependence gap and light a path toward economic empowerment where no one regardless of gender or background, is left behind.

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced the inaugural meeting of the Startup Consultative Forum, scheduled to hold on Monday, April 28, 2025. The event marks a major milestone in the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s burgeoning startup ecosystem through inclusive policy dialogue and strategic engagement.

According to a statement signed by Mrs. Hadiza Umar, Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations at NITDA, the Forum will provide an interactive platform for startup founders, innovators, ecosystem enablers, and intermediaries to actively contribute to shaping national policies that encourage growth, attract investment, and promote digital innovation.

The meeting is being convened under the Nigeria Startup Act (NSA), a legislative framework designed to drive sustainable growth in the tech and innovation sectors. Through this initiative, the government seeks to make startups not just beneficiaries, but central contributors to national development efforts in the digital space.

A key highlight of the forum will be the nomination and selection of representatives to the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship—commonly referred to as the Startup Council. As Nigeria’s highest advisory body for the startup ecosystem, the Council will play a critical role in influencing decisions that affect the future of innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.

NITDA is calling on all Labelled Startups, Verified Entrepreneurial and Innovation Support Organisations, Angel Investors, Venture Capitalists, and other key stakeholders to participate in the forum and take part in the nomination and voting process.

“This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of digital innovation in Nigeria,” the statement read. “Together, we can build a thriving ecosystem that supports and celebrates the pioneering spirit of Nigerian startups.”

For further details, stakeholders are encouraged to contact NITDA via email at info@nitda.gov.ng or visit www.nitda.gov.ng. Updates are also available through NITDA’s official social media handles: @nitdanigeria.

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The PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship has officially commenced its third batch in Kano City, featuring 10 enthusiastic participants eager to enhance their communication skills. This mentorship initiative is organized by Image Merchants Promotion (IMPR), the parent company of PRNigeria, Economic Confidential, and various other publications, following successful segments held in Abuja and Ilorin.

In a welcome address delivered via Zoom, Alhaji Yushau Shuaib, Editor-in-Chief of PRNigeria and Economic Confidential, warmly welcomed the new cohort of fellows. He articulated the program’s primary goal: to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical expertise in journalism and public relations.

“Over the years, PRNigeria has served as a vital platform for young, aspiring communicators, particularly undergraduates, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, and recent graduates, especially at our centers in Abuja and Kano,” he noted. “We have dedicated ourselves to honing their skills in journalism, public relations, and strategic communication, transforming them into well-rounded professionals.”

Shuaib further emphasized the organization’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering growth opportunities. “Our centers in Abuja, Kano, and Ilorin function as incubators for emerging professionals in communication and public relations. Many of our former interns have transitioned into valuable team members,” he said.

The fellowship promises to delve into contemporary issues shaping the digital communication landscape. Participants will explore topics such as social media strategies, crisis communication, artificial intelligence, and multimedia journalism, all under the guidance of seasoned industry veterans who will share their insights and experiences with the fellows.

Dr. Sule Ya’u, Board Chairman of Image Merchants Promotion Limited, also addressed the participants. He urged them to seize this unique opportunity for professional growth. Drawing from his own journey as a Mass Communication student at Bayero University, Kano, Dr. Ya’u emphasized the significance of such fellowships in preparing young professionals for their future careers.

“With the older generation gradually retiring, it is essential for young, talented individuals to be ready to take the reins. This fellowship provides an invaluable platform to acquire the essential skills and knowledge required for success in the field of communication,” he asserted.

The two-week fellowship aims to deliver a robust learning experience, equipping participants with the tools and expertise necessary to thrive in the dynamic realms of journalism and public relations.

By PRNigeria

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Abuja set to host a landmark event celebrating ethical leadership and moral excellence!

In a bold step toward promoting ethical leadership and moral excellence across Nigeria, the African Young Leaders Empowerment Initiative (AFRIYOLEI), in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the Office of the Honourable Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory, and with active support from the Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD), is set to organize the National Ethics and Values Awards (NEVA).

The prestigious event, themed “Upholding Integrity: Celebrating Champions of Ethical Leadership and Values,” will take place on 29th November 2024 at the esteemed Rockview Hotel Royale, Abuja. This event marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s journey towards promoting integrity, accountability, and transparency in all sectors of society.

The National Ethics and Values Awards (NEVA) is a groundbreaking initiative designed to recognize and honor individuals, businesses, public figures, and organizations that have demonstrated exemplary leadership and ethical practices in their respective domains. These honorees have consistently contributed to nation-building and inspired others to uphold integrity and values in their personal and professional lives.

The NEVA event promises to be a momentous occasion, featuring:

– Award Presentations: Honoring distinguished leaders, public servants, businesses, and MSMEs who have championed ethics and values in governance, commerce, and social impact.

– Keynote Address: Delivered by a prominent speaker on the importance of ethical leadership in driving national progress.

– Dignitary Attendance: The event will host top government officials, industry leaders, policymakers, and international stakeholders.

– Networking Opportunities: An occasion for meaningful connections, fostering partnerships that promote ethical practices.

The National Ethics and Values Awards (NEVA) isn’t just an event; it’s a movement to inspire change and reinforce the importance of ethical leadership in our nation. Don’t miss the chance to witness history as we celebrate Nigeria’s champions of values and integrity on 29th November 2024, at Rockview Hotel Royale, Abuja.

Stay tuned for more updates on this landmark event!

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The Lagos State Government is set to showcase its technology and innovation sector at the 2024 Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX), held from October 13 to 18 at the Dubai World Trade Center in the United Arab Emirates.

Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat will lead the state’s delegation, which includes a mix of startups and established tech companies.

GITEX, the world’s largest technology expo, draws industry leaders from global tech firms, government entities, startups, investors, and corporate buyers.

The event highlights technology-driven transformations that shape the economies of the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, making it an essential platform for connecting innovators and attracting investments.

Lagos’ contingent this year features companies involved in organizational ERP management, robotics, and software development, all of which are contributing to the state and national economy. Past GITEX events have been beneficial for Lagos, providing investment opportunities and fostering the growth of local tech startups.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Science, Technology, and Innovation, Mr. Tunbosun Alake, emphasized the importance of these engagements, stating, “Lagos State has begun to reap some benefits from its attendance and collaborations at past editions of GITEX. We are looking to secure over $3 million in investments through partnerships for startups and existing companies.”

Alake also highlighted the dividends of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s investments in the technology sector. He noted that since 2022, startups from Lagos have successfully gained grants and global partnerships through GITEX, with several startups achieving high rankings in competitions like the Supanova contest.

He said, “This is Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s vision for the ecosystem.”

Additionally, the Commissioner expressed a desire to expand government-to-government partnerships between Lagos and the UAE, as well as increase Lagos’ visibility in the tech ecosystem.

The state’s participation at GITEX has already attracted interest from the Dubai World Trade Center in potentially hosting a similar global technology event in Lagos, which would further bolster the local economy.

Dr. Hamzat is scheduled to participate in high-profile activities, including fireside chats and meetings with investors and government leaders, aimed at bringing further investment into Lagos.

GITEX 2024 promises to be a pivotal event for Lagos State as it seeks to position itself as a leading technology hub, drawing global partnerships and investments into its vibrant tech ecosystem.

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By Aliyu Umar, Fnipr

As the world shifts deeper into the digital era, Nigeria stands ready to harness the power of technology to transform how its government delivers services to its people. The upcoming “2024 Nigeria GovTech Conference and Awards Ceremony” is a critical moment in this journey.

Set to be held from October 10 to 11, 2024, at the Nicon Luxury in Abuja, the event aims to push Nigeria’s digital governance agenda further, making public service delivery more efficient and inclusive. The theme of this year’s event, “Digital Innovations as a Catalyst for the Renewed Hope Agenda,” reflects the important role of digitalization in advancing the Federal Government’s vision for a more transparent, efficient, and responsive public service.

Additionally, the event will recognize influential figures who have demonstrated leadership in using technology to advance public service, together with key contributors to Nigeria’s digital transformation through the 2024 GovTech Public Service Awards, with prominent figures like the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani; Peter Mbah of Enugu State; Mohammed Bago of Niger; Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe; and others set to receive these honors.

Stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, tech experts, policymakers, civil society groups, and international partners will converge to discuss how digital tools can be used to enhance governance, drive inclusion, and ensure that no Nigerian is left behind in the evolving digital landscape.

Across the globe, technology has become a critical tool for improving governance. From streamlining bureaucratic processes to increasing transparency and accountability, governments everywhere are turning to digital solutions. Nigeria is no exception, and this conference will serve as a crucial platform for discussions on how the country can accelerate its own digital transformation.

At the heart of GovTech is the use of technology to create more transparent, efficient, and accessible public services. This includes innovations like e-governance systems, digital identity platforms, and cybersecurity measures, all of which help streamline government operations and make them more responsive to citizens’ needs.

For Nigerians, the 2024 GovTech Conference offers a unique opportunity to see how digital innovations can transform critical services, from healthcare and education to transportation and financial management. The adoption of GovTech promises to cut down bureaucracy, reduce corruption, and make access to government services quicker and more straightforward.

Furthermore, individuals and organizations that have contributed immensely to the digitalization of public services will be honored with awards, a process that involved nominations and voting on various media platforms, aiming to celebrate excellence in innovation and governance reforms.

This year’s conference will delve into key areas of digital governance, including service delivery, transparency, data governance, and capacity building. It will explore how digital platforms can simplify public services, making it easier for Nigerians to access essential services like healthcare, education, and permits online.

A major focus will be on how digital technologies can foster accountability in governance. Tools like blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) have the potential to radically improve transparency in public operations, cutting down on corruption and inefficiencies. The importance of data governance will also take center stage, with discussions on how to safeguard personal and government data in the face of rising cyber threats.

As Nigeria moves forward with its digital transformation, building the capacity of public servants to navigate this new terrain will be critical. The conference will emphasize training and capacity-building efforts to ensure that the public sector workforce is equipped to handle the digital tools necessary to serve citizens more efficiently.

But beyond the policy discussions, the impact of this event will be felt in the everyday lives of Nigerians. The move toward e-governance will reduce long wait times at government offices and make essential services more accessible to citizens across the country, no matter where they live.

Furthermore, the adoption of digital tools will create new opportunities for tech-savvy Nigerians and foster economic growth, particularly in the innovation-driven tech industry. The 2024 GovTech Conference is more than just another event – it’s a moment for Nigerians to engage with the future of governance in their country.

It offers a chance for citizens, innovators, and public servants to come together and discuss how technology can reshape governance for the better. The awards ceremony, which will take place during the conference, highlights the success of leaders and organizations in integrating digital tools to improve service delivery.

As Nigeria embarks on this path, every citizen stands to benefit from a more responsive, transparent, and efficient government. To stay up to date with the latest developments regarding the conference, follow the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) on social media or visit the official event website.

Participating in this national conversation is key to ensuring that Nigeria’s public service becomes more transparent, accountable, and effective in meeting the needs of its people.

Aliyu Umar is the spokesperson of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, BPSR.

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced the upcoming Digital Nigeria International Conference & Exhibition (DNICE) 2024, set to take place from October 22 to 24, 2024. Held in partnership with Brevity Anderson, the event aims to gather global leaders, industry experts, and policymakers under the theme “Empowering a Digital Future.”

This significant conference will serve as a platform for dialogue and collaboration as Nigeria continues its advancement towards becoming a prominent digital economy. Attendees can expect a packed agenda featuring keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions, all designed to promote the growth of Nigeria’s digital landscape.

The Spokesperson of NITDA, Mrs Hadiza Umar said the key highlights include high-level sessions led by esteemed speakers in government and academia, where they will discuss digital transformation and emerging technologies.

Additionally, panel discussions will tackle vital issues such as the Nigerian Startup Act, cybersecurity, fintech innovations, and the implications of AI and blockchain for economic development.

The event will also provide workshops and masterclasses focusing on hands-on experiences in areas such as coding, data analytics, and digital entrepreneurship. Exhibitions will showcase the latest technologies and innovations, reflecting Nigeria’s vibrant tech ecosystem.

The theme “Empowering a Digital Future” aligns with the Nigerian government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing the critical role of digital technologies in fostering economic growth and improving citizens’ lives.

As part of the conference, NITDA plans to introduce initiatives aimed at boosting digital literacy and innovation, as well as recognizing outstanding startups from the Digital Nigeria Hackathon 2024.

Attendees will have the opportunity to network with industry leaders and explore partnerships that could further advance Nigeria’s digital economy. The conference is open to stakeholders worldwide who wish to participate in shaping the nation’s digital future.

For registration and further details about the Digital Nigeria International Conference 2024, interested parties can visit [digitalnigeria.gov.ng/register](https://digitalnigeria.gov.ng/register) or contact representatives Joy Bashua and Michael Abiola for bookings and inquiries.

This conference marks a significant step forward for Nigeria as it seeks to empower a digital future that fosters inclusivity and sustainable development.

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