By Dahiru M. Lawal

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recently made headlines by imposing a hefty fine of ₦150 million on several banks for failing to adhere to its cash distribution guidelines. This decisive action, no doubt is a necessary deterrent against lapses that inconvenience millions of Nigerians, particularly during periods of high demand. It underscores the CBN’s commitment to ensuring that banks fulfill their obligation to provide seamless financial services while also highlighting the urgent need to transition Nigeria towards a more cashless economy.

The fines come on the heels of widespread complaints during the festive season, when many Nigerians struggled to access cash due to understocked ATMs. Such inefficiencies exacerbate public frustration and undermine trust in the banking system. By holding banks accountable, the CBN has sent a clear message: financial institutions must prioritise the needs of their customers. This action aligns with similar interventions in the past, such as the crackdown on the illegal sale of mint naira notes, demonstrating the CBN’s resolve to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s financial system.

While these measures are commendable, they are ultimately reactive, addressing symptoms rather than the root causes of cash-related challenges. Nigeria’s reliance on physical cash remains a significant barrier to achieving a more efficient and inclusive financial system. This is where the push for cashless policies becomes critical. By reducing dependency on cash, the country can mitigate issues like ATM shortages, improve transparency in financial transactions, and enhance economic resilience.

The CBN has already made strides in promoting cashless initiatives, such as the introduction of the eNaira and the expansion of digital payment platforms. However, more needs to be done to ensure widespread adoption. For many Nigerians, especially those in rural areas, cash remains king due to limited access to digital infrastructure and low levels of financial literacy. Bridging this gap requires a multi-faceted approach that combines infrastructure development, public awareness campaigns, and incentives for digital transactions.

Emerging technologies like Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) and swipe cards offer additional avenues for fostering a cashless society. NFTs, while primarily associated with the digital art market, have broader applications as secure, transparent tools for transferring value and ownership. For instance, they could be used to digitise land titles or trade assets, reducing the need for physical cash in high-value transactions. Similarly, swipe cards and mobile payment systems can streamline everyday transactions, making it easier for Nigerians to adopt cashless practices. These tools not only enhance convenience but also provide a secure and traceable alternative to cash, which is often exploited for illegal activities.

A shift towards cashless policies has implications far beyond convenience. One of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria is insecurity, particularly the financing of terrorism and other criminal activities. Physical cash is the preferred medium for such transactions due to its anonymity. By transitioning to digital payment systems, the CBN can disrupt these illicit financial flows, enhancing national security. Digital transactions leave an audit trail, making it easier for law enforcement agencies to track and combat financial crimes.

However, the journey to a cashless Nigeria is not without its challenges. Infrastructure deficits, such as unreliable power supply and limited internet connectivity, remain significant hurdles. Moreover, trust in digital systems must be cultivated to overcome skepticism among the populace. The CBN, in collaboration with financial institutions and technology providers, must invest in building a robust and inclusive digital ecosystem. This includes expanding access to mobile networks, ensuring the reliability of digital platforms, and protecting users against cyber threats.

Another critical aspect is financial education. Many Nigerians are unaware of the benefits of cashless transactions or how to use digital tools effectively. Public awareness campaigns, community outreach programs, and partnerships with educational institutions can play a pivotal role in demystifying digital finance and encouraging its adoption. Financial literacy must become a cornerstone of the CBN’s strategy, empowering citizens to make informed choices and embrace the opportunities offered by a cashless economy.

The fines levied against non-compliant banks should serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders in Nigeria’s financial system. While punitive measures are necessary to enforce compliance, they must be complemented by proactive policies that address the systemic issues underlying cash shortages and inefficiencies. The CBN’s leadership in this regard is crucial, and its recent actions should be seen as part of a broader strategy to modernise the country’s financial landscape.

In conclusion, the CBN’s intervention in penalising banks for failing to meet cash distribution standards is a commendable step towards accountability and customer-centric banking. However, it also highlights the need for a paradigm shift towards cashless policies that can address the root causes of such issues. By leveraging emerging technologies like NFTs and swipe cards, and by investing in digital infrastructure and education, Nigeria can build a financial system that is not only efficient but also secure and inclusive. A cashless future is not just an economic imperative; it is a pathway to national stability and progress. The CBN has laid the groundwork; it is now up to all stakeholders to collaborate in realising this vision.

Lawal is head of Innovation and Special Projects at PRNigeria and Executive Secretary, Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR) 

The post CBN’s N150mn Penalty: A Step Towards a Cashless Nigeria? By Dahiru M. Lawal appeared first on Tech Digest News.

The Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR) and PRNigeria has enjoined media practitioners on the need to incorporate the application of artificial intelligence (AI tools in order to boost efficiency and improve performance across their newsroom.

The Executive Secretary of NADIR and head of Innovation at PRNigeria, Mohammed Dahiru Lawal, who is the convener disclosed this during a one-day roundtable discussion with journalists in Kano State.

The maiden dialogue with the theme “Localising Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Newsrooms and Digital Media” was aimed at bringing together local journalists, media professionals, and AI experts to explore the potential and challenges of localising AI in the media landscape.

He emphasised that AI tools have the capacity to enhance the journalism profession when deployed appropriately, especially in today’s media landscape where digitization and automation are taking the lead.

“The time is ripe for journalists and reporters to embrace and learn how to manipulate AI tools effectively in order to enhance their job and improve performance towards achieving the targeted organisational goals.” Mr. Lawal added.

While making a presentation, an AI and communication expert, Malam Isah Ali Muhammad, noted that the need to incorporate AI tools across various work landscapes can never be overemphasised.

The facilitator harped on the need to localise AI tools across the newsroom while still paying attention to the conceptof ethics and responsible journalism.

On the other hand, the participants described this kind of discussion as timely and very apt, especially when there is concern about AI having the potential to displace many people from their jobs due to its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reduced time consumption.

Having judiciously analysed the challenges and prospects of AI tools, the participants strongly advocated for their application and sought a series of capacity-building trainings in order to equip journalists with the requisite knowledge of their proper application.

The post PRNigeria, NADIR Sensitises Journalists on Localising AI in Newsrooms appeared first on Tech Digest News.

In a move to bolster the cybersecurity landscape in West Africa, a leading digital literacy organization, the Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR), has called on Nigerian youths to apply for the Economic Community of West Africa’s (ECOWAS) cybersecurity hackathon.

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) recently announced that the Capture the Flag (CTF) competition, organized by ECOWAS and hosted by Nigeria, is a collaborative effort involving the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.

The “Capture the Flag” (CTF) competition presents a phenomenal opportunity for young Nigerians to develop in-demand cybersecurity skills, network with regional professionals, and contribute to a safer digital landscape for West Africa.

In a press statement, the Executive Secretary of NADIR, Mohammed Dahiru Lawal, urged all eligible Nigerian youths, from beginners to seasoned professionals, to seize this chance to sharpen their cybersecurity skills through the CTF, which provides a fun and engaging vista and allows for continuous learning through valuable insights into the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity.

He said the event would equip participants to stay ahead of the curve and network with other talented individuals from across the region, fostering a vibrant cybersecurity community. “Participating in the ECOWAS Cybersecurity Hackathon is an investment in the nation, the future of our youth, and the upcoming generation, which hold the potential to open doors towards excellent job prospects and collaborative projects,” Lawal emphasized.

NADIR is committed to empowering Nigerians with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the digital age. The organization advocates for responsible digital practices, promotes digital inclusion, and bridges the digital divide. “We therefore encourage all eligible Nigerians to register for the ECOWAS Cybersecurity Hackathon so that together, we can build a more secure and prosperous digital future for our nation and continent,” Lawal added.

NITDA highlighted the event as an excellent opportunity for both beginners and seasoned professionals to immerse themselves in the world of cybersecurity, acquire new skills, and network with fellow enthusiasts.

In its post on the hackathon’s website, ECOWAS invited talented individuals and teams to join the exhilarating competition to demonstrate their expertise, collaborate with peers, and push the boundaries of cybersecurity. “Be part of the talent pool driving the security of cyberspace for your country and West Africa as a whole,” ECOWAS stated.

The Cybersecurity Hackathon aims to foster a platform for young technology enthusiasts, ultimately enhancing the cyber workforce in the region. ECOWAS has urged member states to participate and showcase their brightest minds in this competition.

The registration for the competition opened on July 18 and is expected to close on August 5, 2024. ECOWAS has outlined the following eligibility criteria for participants:

Participants are expected to be citizens of ECOWAS member countries, while travel tickets would be provided for those residing within the region.

Each team must consist of a minimum of three and a maximum of four members, with at least one (1) female participant. They must be between seventeen (17) and thirty-five (35) years of age.

Despite the steady increase in cyberattacks, Nigeria currently has one of the lowest numbers of cybersecurity experts in the world. According to a recent report by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2), there is now a global gap of four million cybersecurity jobs to be filled, with Nigeria and South Africa having more gaps compared to other countries.

To address this talent shortage, the Nigerian government has launched the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, which aims to train 3 million Nigerians in technical skills, including cybersecurity.

The ECOWAS Cybersecurity Hackathon presents an opportunity for Nigerian youths to showcase their skills, network with industry professionals, and contribute to strengthening the cybersecurity landscape in West Africa.

By participating in this competition, young Nigerians can not only enhance their own capabilities but also play a crucial role in securing the digital future of their country and the region.

The post Nigerian Youths Urged to Participate in ECOWAS Cybersecurity Hackathon appeared first on Tech Digest News.

The Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mallam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), on being honored with the Award of Excellence in Public Service for Digital Innovation at the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS) Ceremony.

Mr. Abdullahi’s receipt of this prestigious national award, presented by His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, underscores his exemplary leadership and transformative impact in driving digital innovation within Nigeria. His visionary stewardship has not only elevated the NITDA brand but has also significantly contributed to the sustainability and growth of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

This recognition adds to Mr. Abdullahi’s distinguished portfolio of accolades both local and internationally including the Most Valuable Personality in Nigeria’s digital economy award, the Forbes’ Africa Outstanding Corporate Governance CEO Award and Golden world Award Finalist of International Public Relations Association (IPRA) among numerous others.

These accolades reflect his status as a multi-award-winning corporate governance CEO, affirming his commitment to excellence and innovation in the digital technology sector.

Under Mr. Abdullahi’s leadership, NITDA has consistently pioneered initiatives that promote capacity building, empowerment, and technological intervention, thereby catalysing a digital revolution across various sectors of the economy. His unwavering dedication and strategic initiatives have set a benchmark for public service excellence and corporate governance in Nigeria.

As NADIR celebrates Mr. Abdullahi’s well-deserved recognition, we urge him to maintain the momentum and continue to raise the bar in advancing digital innovation for the betterment of our nation. His leadership remains pivotal in steering Nigeria towards a digitally inclusive future.

Signed

Mohammed Dahiru Lawal
Executive Secretary,
Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR)

The post NADIR Hails NITDA DG on Award of Excellence in Public Service for Digital Innovation appeared first on Tech Digest News.

TECHDIGEST – After an endorsement by the Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR), another group has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for nominating an Ondo State Federal Lawmaker, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo (BTO) as a minister of the Federal Republic.

The group, Defenders of Constitutional Democracy (DCD) also congratulated the nominee for being among the first batch of ministerial nominees sent to the Senate for screening for the well deserved nomination

Hon Tunji-Ojo, a serving member of the House of Representatives representing Akoko North East/Akoko North West federal Constituencyf of Ondo state was the Chairman of the Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in the 9th Assembly.

The DCD’s commendation, issued in Abuja was signed by its National Convener, Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi and the Director of Contact and Mobilisation, Dr. Chukwuma Okoro.

The non-governmental organisation said Tunji-Ojo as a minister “Would add value to the administration of President Bola Tinubu, especially in the communication and IT sector having being an accomplished business and management executive with a flourishing career in ICT, becoming the CEO of a leading indigenous ICT consultant company in Nigeria, Matrix IT Solutions Limited, at the age of 24”.

READ ALSO:NADIR lauds Tunji-Ojo as ministerial pick, condemns attack on NITDA Boss

The group noted that “As a professional, he holds a certification in Ethical Hacking and Counter Measures and is also a certified CompTIA Network Plus Engineer and a Britannia Hardware A+ Management Certificate Holder”.

According to them, “With certifications in eighteen professional qualifications in ICT including the prestigious title of being one of the first set of certified ethical hackers from Royal Britannia IT Training Academy in the United Kingdom before he turned 24 years, Rt. Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo possesses the requisite qualifications, experience and character to contribute meaningfully and immensely to the President Tinubu’s APC-led government.

“Mr. President, we deeply appreciate you for nominating this rare talent and resourceful young man to be part of your administration. We have no doubt in our minds that Hon. Tunji-Ojo, being a round peg in a round hole will be an invaluable asset to your administration and the country at large.

“This particular nomination and indeed the other 27 have clearly shown that the Renewed Hope Agenda will be a huge success because intellectuals, bureaucrats and experienced professionals such as Hon. Tunji-Ojo are given an opportunity to ventilate their skills, the nation will certainly be a better place.

“We commend Mr. President for this wonderful pick for it has proven that the youths who are leaders of tomorrow have a place in the current administration as those who are prepared for service would definitely be accorded due recognition.

” Hence, we pray that God will give them the strength and excellent health to deliver dividends of democracy to Nigerians”, the statement stated.

The DCD further stated that “As a member of the House of Representatives from 2019 to date, Hon. Tunji-Ojo has given a good account of himself by offering purposeful representation and service to his constituents.

” His Federal constituency has enjoyed a wholesome transformation, which has successfully changed the condition of the people.

“It is on record that Hon. Tunji-Ojo has changed his federal constituency into a construction site with an array of projects executed by him in the last four years. Presently, there is no community in his constituency that has not benefited from BTO as hardwork and benevolence.

The post Another Group Hails President Tinubu for Nominating Hon Tunji-Ojo as Minister appeared first on Tech Digest News.

TECHDIGEST – The Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the nomination of renowned tech expert, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, as minister.

Tunji-Ojo, a lawmaker from the Akoko North East/Akoko North West Federal Constituency of Ondo State, is among the first batch of 28 ministerial nominees whose names were read out by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during plenary on Thursday.

NADIR, a formidable network of digital-savvy editors, publishers and other practitioners and registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), in a statement by it Executive Director, Dahiru Lawal said that President Tinubu’s choice of Tunji-Ojo shows his desire to put round pegs in round holes as part of measures to advance the country’s digital economy.

“Born in 1982, Tunji-Ojo studied Electronics and Communication Engineering at the University of North London (now London Metropolitan University) and graduated in 2005. He obtained a master’s degree in Digital Communication and Networking from the same institution in 2006.

“He holds certifications in eighteen professional qualifications in ICT including the prestigious title of being one of the first set of certified ethical hackers from Royal Britannia IT Training Academy in the United Kingdom before he turned 24 years.

“NADIR is therefore not only proud of Tunji-Ojo’s achievements in the global digital space, we are also grateful to Mr President for finding one of Nigeria’s best youngsters worthy of appointment into his cabinet,” the statement read in part.

The Network described his nomination as a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to choose the best for Nigeria on the basis of competence, merit and pedigree, and not ethno-relugious sentiments.

“It is on this note that we condemn the call by Computer Guild of Nigeria (CGN) that the next Minister of Communication and Digital Economy must be a Christian.

“We condemn in totality the resort to religious propaganda by a group of political jobbers who are seeking to blackmail the Tinubu administration to do their narrow and selfish bidding.

“Religion should never serve as a criterion for appointing individuals into offices and we find it shocking that rabble rousers and religious bigots choose to push through their divisive agenda under a name that should naturally evoke professionalism and decency.

“Even more ridiculous is the claim by the CGN that Nigerian Christians have a huge number of competent hands that can take the Communications Ministry to greater heights. Who told them that Nigerian Muslims, traditional worshippers, free thinkers and aethists do not also have some of the best brains among them who can fit perfectly as Minister in the Communications Ministry?

“We are surprised that groups of political hustlers who campaigned vigorously against the election of President Tinubu are now seeking to blackmail the President to do their bidding.

READ ALSO: NITDA Boss Tasks Youth On Technological Disruption 

NADIR similarly condemned the call by a similar group for the removal of the ‘hardworking’ Director-General of the National Information Technological Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa.

The group argued that NITDA’s contributions to the global tech space have been commendable under the guidance of Inuwa as the agency’s strides in promoting technological innovation and digitalisation have been remarkable.

According to the Network, interrupting the progress being made by NITDA at the moment will not serve the interest of the country’s digital economy.

The Network mentioned the achievements of NITDA under Inuwa as follows:

“In 2021, the NITDA under Inuwa unveiled its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2021 – 2024), which is anchored on seven strategic pillars to support the achievement of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) objectives. The ongoing implementation of the 64 strategic initiatives of SRAP has significantly contributed to the impact of ICT on the economy. In addition, the Agency’s strategic engagement with critical stakeholders in the ecosystem and implementation of the SRAP initiatives have made Nigeria the leading destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to startups in Africa, attracting about US$3.8billion which constitutes about 35% of all FDI into African startups from 2019.

“Through the Agency’s implementation of strategic initiatives and interventions, many jobs were created for Nigerians. For instance, the Agency set up the Tech4COVID Committee, which developed strategies to cushion the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative led to the retention of over 100,000 ICT jobs and created additional 30,000 jobs in the post-COVID-19 era. Similarly, the NDPR compliance drive created 7,680 jobs and a market valued at ₦1.2 billion.

“Furthermore, the implementation of the Agency’s National Adopted Village for Smart Agriculture (NAVSA) initiative has thus far engaged nine hundred (900) farmers and created over five thousand (5,000) direct and indirect jobs. The initiative targets the engagement of ten (10) million farmers across the agricultural value chain by 2030. The Agency developed the National Outsourcing Strategy to deliver one (1) million jobs by 2025, contributing to the employment of 16,540 Nigerians. The Business Process Outsourcing market is estimated at US$286.8 million, as reported by Africa Global Business Services (GBS).

“To promote emerging technologies in Nigeria, the Agency under Inuwa established the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR). The NCAIR has trained 1,250 youths across Nigeria on high-end cutting-edge technologies. The Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI) was created as a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to help incubate ideas and develop an enabling environment for startups to thrive.

“Through the ONDI, the Agency supported 143 startups through; Facilitation of ₦50 million grant each to 6 startups’; Facilitation of US$15,000 each to 3 startups; Seed funding support to 12 startups; Sponsorship of 51 startups to GITEX global event, LEAP Tech Conference, Intra-African Trade Fair, and 40 Nigerian startups to local events; Acceleration of 30 startups through the Bridge to MassChallenge (B2MC) Nigeria programme; Incubation of 16 startups through the iHatch Incubation programme; Training of 20 startups through the North-East Start-up Training (NEST) programme; Training of 74 innovators to build viable tech businesses through the Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Support (TIES) Scheme; Acceleration of 3 Nigerian startups through the NINJA Acceleration Programme in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA); and Training of 300 secondary school students on digital innovation and entrepreneurship.

“In terms of digital talent development, Inuwa’s NITDA has committed to the conduct of an IT Talent Gap Assessment among Nigeria’s youth population for tech talent acceleration and position Nigeria as a global IT Talent Factory. In line with the FG’s initiative on social investment, the Agency launched the one (1) million software developer initiative, and thus far, 215,524 Nigerians have completed or are undergoing related capacity-building programmes. In addition, various multi-sectorial capacity-building programmes were launched to promote digital literacy, and 823,814 Nigerians have been trained so far.”

The Network urged the President to ignore the call for Inuwa’s removal from office.

“Yet, this is the same action man some unpatriotic elements want President Tinubu to remove from office.

“There has to be a limit to political charlatanism. We are calling on President Tinubu to ignore these group of individuals who do not mean well for his administration and Nigeria in general,” the statement concluded.

The post NADIR lauds Tunji-Ojo as ministerial pick, condemns attack on NITDA Boss appeared first on Tech Digest News.

TECHDIGEST – Most organisations backing the NITDA Bill at the National Assembly are registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC. This was the conclusion of a fact-check done by PRNigeria.

In a report, it dubbed as “fact check,” an online platform, ITREALMS, claimed that its “investigation” unraveled 12 fictitious stakeholders supporting the National Information Technology Development (NITDA) Bill 2022.

However, PRNigeria reached out to the respective organisations mentioned by ITREALMS to confirm if they are truly not operational and not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as claimed by the self acclaimed digital news blog. In response, most of the organisations sent their CAC Certificates as proof of legal standing. https://prnigeria.com/2023/05/24/fictitious-organisations-nitda-bill/

Based on the documents screened by PRNigeria fact-check desk, the Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR) was officially incorporated in February 2023 with registration number 6880172 as against the claim by ITREALMS that it was an unregistered entity.

Further checks revealed that NADIR, a non-political organisation that counters misinformation and fake news and promotes digital inclusion and fact-checking to enhance positive narratives and digital literacy, has been active and existence since 2021 before it was officially registered with the CAC.

A simple online check revealed that in April this year, a serial award-winning journalist and fact-checker, Mohammed Dahiru Lawal, was appointed as Executive Secretary of the Network.

Also, Mansurah M Abdullah, the Chief Executive Officer of Heroic Discovery and Community Development Centre told PRNigeria fact-check desk that the organisation was incorporated in February 2014 with registration Number CAC/IT/NO 67586.

Besides the document she shared to support her claim, a simple online keyword check revealed a site map for the organisation, its registered presence with NG-Check and its affiliation with other NGOs like the Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN).

Furthermore, findings revealed that the North East ICT Development Initiatives was incorporated on the 11th day of November, 2021 as limited by guarantee with registration number 1859972 with Abdulrahman Barkindo Alkali as the Project Lead. It also has a registered domain http://www.neicti.com.ng but a click visit indicates that the site is currently under renovation.

Similarly, documents obtained from Zainab Abdulkadir, the Senior Program Officer, Digital African Youth Forum revealed that it was incorporated in March 2023 with registration number 68720162. An inquiry by PRNigeria into the record of the CAC corroborated the legal registration status and corresponding documents to be genuine.

Based on facts unravelled by PRNigeria and documents accessed in both the CAC record and founders of the affected organisations, the claim by ITREALMS that some stakeholder organisations supporting NITDA Bill 2022 are unregistered, is unreliable.

PRNigeria therefore concludes that the claim by ITREALMS that its “investigation” unraveled 12 fictitious stakeholders supporting the NITDA Bill 2022 is not only FALSE but also MISLEADING.

The post Registered Organisations Back NITDA Bill, Says Fact-Check appeared first on Tech Digest News.

TECHDIGEST– The Head of Special Investigations and Fact-checking at PRNigeria, Mohammed Dahiru Lawal has been appointed as the executive secretary of the Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR).
His appointment which takes immediate effect was contained in a statement on Monday signed by NADIR’s head of Information and ICT, Fom Gyem.

According to the statement, Dahiru a serial award-winning development investigative journalist and fact-checker who was overall Campus Journalist of the year 2020 in Nigeria is expected to bring his wealth of experience to bear in the discharge of his new role.

READALSO: The Gender Bias Breaker- Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE

With several well-researched fact-checks and investigative reports across various platforms to his credit, Dahiru has won several awards, including the 2021 Best West African Fellow on the Kwame Kari Kari, Premium Times Center for Investigative Journalism (PTCIJ) Research and Fact-checking Fellowship and Professor Ali Pantami Prize for the Best Graduating Student in Digital Journalism at Bayero University Kano.

An author, his award-winning “101 Fake News on EndSARS” bagged the SABRE African PR Award in Tanzania as well as IPRA Golden World Award 2022

He is a 2023 Mandela Washington Fellow and will be undertaking his Fellowship in June this year at the Presidential Precinct, Charlottesville, Virginia in the United States of America (USA).

PRNigeria reports that NADIR is a non-profit, non-political organization that serves as a journalism for digital inclusion and fact-checking platform that promotes positive digital narratives and enhances digital literacy for guaranteed national growth.

Its aim, among others, is to counter-influence operations that bring about misinformation and fake news, promote digital programmes, champion digital awareness creation, advance internet freedom, and promote digital inclusion.

According to Miss Gyem, NADIR’s Board of Trustees/Directors express excitement about his appointment and are confident that he would discharge his duties diligently.

Dahiru’s appointment as the executive secretary of NADIR is expected to further enhance the organization’s efforts in promoting digital inclusion, fact-checking, and enhancing digital literacy.

By PRNigeria

The post NADIR Appoints PRNigeria’s Head of Fact-Check, Dahiru Lawal as Executive Secretary appeared first on Tech Digest News.

TECHDIGEST – The Management of Ahmadu Bello University, ABU Zaria, has refuted a claim that it threatened to withdraw the degree certificate of the Director-General of National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, over comments on the integrity tests for UTAS, a platform developed by Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU.

In a statement by the university’s spokesperson, Auwalu Umar, the university said Mr Kashifu never attended ABU for any academic program.

Kashifu Inuwa holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Computer Science from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi State, (ATBU) and is a recipient of multiple executive certifications in leadership, innovation, telecommunications, service management, networking and solutions design. Some of certification were obtained from top-notch universities, including Harvard University, University of Cambridge and Oxford University. He is also an MIT-Sloan strategist trained at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Meanwhile in clearing the misconception, the statement from ABU spokesperson reads: “The attention of Management of Ahmadu Bello University has been drawn to a media report alleging that the institution had in March 2022 threatened to withdraw the Bachelor degree of Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director-General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), over comments on the integrity tests for UTAS, a payment platform developed by Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

READ ALSO: Pantami, Kashifu Among International Guests at GITEX 2022 in Dubai

“Accordingly, the University Management wishes to state categorically that at no time did ABU issue such a threat. After all, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, from records available, never attended Ahmadu Bello University for any academic programme, be it undergraduate, graduate or sub-degree.

It would be recalled that a group of people claiming to speak on behalf of ATBU Management had threatened to withdraw the Kashifu’s degree certificate.

It was later discovered that the threat was actually issued by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), ATBU Branch and signed by one Ibrahim Inuwa and Muhammad Muhammad over UTAS platform.

In their statement, ASUU members threatened that unless the DG NITDA retracted his comments on the UTAS they would be forced to initiate the process of withdrawing his degree certificate as an alumnus of the university.

They said they were embarrassed that after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on March 9th, 2022, Kashifu had implied that the UTAS had failed integrity test, vulnerability test (security integrity), User Acceptance Test (UAT) and stress load test, as well as the hardware requirements.

While the management of ATBU distanced itself from the threat, other groups lambasted ASUU for overstepping it boundary.

Speaking on the issue the spokesperson of the Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR), Bello Shehu had described the ASUU’s move as “laughable and ill-advised”, wondering why the official was being targeted “for discharging his duties”

“In a desperate bid to blackmail a public official into lowering the bars of his mandate and succumbing to selfish inclinations, ASUU have resorted to threats.

“Has the union now usurped the mandate of University Senate in awarding degree certificates?

“Is there a legally recognised marriage of convenience between labour unionism and award of degree certificates in ATBU?

“Isn’t ASUU overstepping its boundaries and arrogating to itself an authority outside its jurisdiction?” NADIR spokesperson concluded.

The post ABU Denies Threat to Withdraw Kashifu’s Certificate Over UTAS Comment appeared first on Tech Digest News.

…. Cites Similar Codes in Europe and USA

TECHDIGEST – The Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR) has lauded the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) for drafting a ‘Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries’.

NADIR, at a press conference in Kano State, said that the Code of Practice formulated by NITDA will not only strengthen press freedom and maintain the dignity of information but will also curtail fake News and Hate speech in the forthcoming general elections in 2023.

Its Coordinator, Dahiru Mohammed Lawal, while speaking at the conference, noted that online space needs to be made comfortable for everyone to address issues that cause panic in society and infringe on laws.

“This wouldn’t have come at a better time than in the wake of the 2023 general elections when information disorder and illegal contents will have a field day, when businesses are fully transforming into the digital space without paying necessary dues, where indiscretion is premium in virtually all online interactive habits, and online connectivity.

“An unregulated online space remains a recipe for civil unrest and the need for an instrumental that will ensure that our unity in diversity is not exploited for pecuniary gains, while guaranteeing freedom of speech and expression as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution is incumbent upon all citizens with the interest and love of our nation at heart.

“Certainly, incitements, ethnocentric behaviours that increase tension along with ethnic biases, interreligious incitements, and blasphemy and even secessionist tendencies that threaten security and lead to violence and wanton attacks thrive fatally in an unregulated media space.”

The NADIR Coordinator pointed out that while the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) regulates broadcast stations, the Nigerian Press Council (NPC) ensures the maintenance of the highest ethical professional standards in print media. He, therefore, asked “Why should the online platforms, especially social media be free from regulatory scrutiny?

The group also disclosed that other countries have taken stricter and more stringent measures to curtail excesses on online platforms.

“World over, rules and regulations exist to moderate indiscretion to avert recipes for descending into anarchic existence. Very recently, precisely on Thursday, June 16th, 2022, Meta, Google, Twitter and Microsoft agreed to take a tougher line against disinformation including deep fakes and fake accounts under an updated “European Union (EU) code of practice” or face hefty fines – key word being “code of practice.

“More than 30 signatories including advertising bodies have signed up for the updated Code of Practice on Disinformation, as disclosed by the European Commission.

“Curiously, even the United States Government – the self-righteous custodians of free speech – has announced that it was establishing an interagency task force to fight harassment and abuse online.

“The move by the White House came barely four days (on Thursday) after NITDA released its draft ‘Code of Practice’ for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries and Conditions for Operating in Nigeria.

On the socio-economic benefits of the code of practice, Dahiru said that with the digital space already contributing about 18% to the nation’s GDP, compelling big techs to abide by local laws and pay the requisite tax would amount to increased revenue which could contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s economy.

READ ALSO:Finally, NITDA Issues Code of Practice for Online Platforms Operating in Nigeria

“Regulations will promote more local content which in turn translates into massive job creation.
It will ensure the breeding of more corporate and law-abiding citizens who are mindful of our collective sensitivities as a people united in diversity.

“We have been living with regulations in schools, homes, offices etcetera, why must the case of the digital space remain different?

“We must all bear in mind that this commendable move will not only aid the strength of press freedom but will ensure sanity and integrity of information dignity which is fast waning due to activities of influence operations.

“While NITDA has clarified that the code of ethics is a draft, subject to inputs, we wish to urge stakeholders to take advantage and intervene appropriately to have a mutually accepted code of regulations without recourse to the fear of tackling freedom of speech.

“We also urge NITDA to work assiduously in building confidence and trust around what it is doing by continuously involving all stakeholders.

“We therefore wish to unequivocally place on record our unreserved support for NITDA’s Code of Practice,” he concluded.

The post 2023 Elections: NITDA’s ‘Code of Practice’ ‘ll Tackle Fake News, Hate Speech – NADIR appeared first on Tech Digest News.