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The Digital Divide: Why Journalists Struggle With Laptops in Developing Regions, By Emmanuel Ajibulu

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Journalists across the globe increasingly rely on laptops as their primary tool for reporting, editing, and publishing. Yet, for many, especially those working in developing regions, this reliance comes with formidable challenges that hinder productivity and compromise press freedom.

One of the most pressing obstacles is the high cost of modern laptops. Advanced devices capable of handling multimedia editing, data visualization, and investigative research remain financially inaccessible to many professionals, leaving them dependent on outdated or underpowered machines.

Even when equipment is available, limited digital literacy poses another barrier. Skills such as video editing, graphic design, and secure data management are increasingly essential in modern journalism, yet many practitioners lack adequate training to fully leverage these tools.

Security risks further compound the problem. Journalists are highly vulnerable to malware, phishing attacks, and pervasive digital surveillance.

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These threats not only endanger personal safety but also jeopardize the confidentiality of sources, an issue particularly critical in regions where press freedom is fragile and protective infrastructure is minimal.

Beyond technical and security concerns, systemic issues severely restrict productivity. In many developing regions, inadequate power supply leads to frequent interruptions, forcing journalists to work under unpredictable conditions.

The absence of reliable corporate internet access further limits their ability to conduct timely research, publish stories, and collaborate with colleagues across borders.

Together, these challenges illustrate a stark digital divide.

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While laptops have become indispensable tools for journalism worldwide, their effectiveness is undermined by financial, technical, and infrastructural barriers.

Successfully addressing the challenges faced by journalists in developing regions requires a multi-pronged strategy that tackles cost, skills, safety, and systemic barriers. Affordable device programs, targeted digital literacy training, stronger cybersecurity measures, and infrastructure improvements such as reliable electricity and internet connectivity are essential to empowering journalists and safeguarding the free flow of information.

Affordable device initiatives can play a transformative role. Governments, NGOs, and media organizations should consider subsidizing or bulk-purchasing laptops for journalists.

Refurbished devices and low-cost alternatives, such as Chromebooks, offer practical solutions without prohibitive costs. Strategic partnerships with technology companies can further ensure access to modern tools at reduced prices, bridging the gap between resource limitations and professional needs.

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Equally important is digital literacy training. Journalists must be equipped with the skills to navigate multimedia editing, data visualization, and investigative reporting tools.

Structured training programs, online modules, and peer-led workshops can help practitioners adapt to evolving digital demands, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly changing media landscape.

Cybersecurity remains a critical concern.

Providing journalists with cybersecurity support, including training on safe digital practices, access to VPNs, secure communication platforms, and reliable antivirus software, protects both their personal safety and the confidentiality of their sources. Advocacy for stronger legal protections against surveillance and harassment further reinforces this safety net.

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Beyond technology, systemic improvements are vital. Expanding infrastructure support, such as reliable electricity grids, backup power solutions, and affordable broadband, directly enhances productivity. Community-based internet hubs or co-working spaces can provide shared access to stable connectivity, enabling journalists to conduct timely research, publish stories, and collaborate across borders.

More pointedly is the fact that, the human dimension must not be overlooked. Addressing stress from digital insecurity and unstable working conditions through mental health support, counseling, and peer-support networks is crucial. Flexible work arrangements and orientation manuals for digital journalists can ease transitions into modern reporting environments, reducing anxiety and fostering resilience.

*Emmanuel Ajibulu is an infoprenuer, publisher of Veracity Desk (www.veracitydesk.com), writer, communication consultant and social media influencer. He wrote via emmanuelajbulu@gmail.com*

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BREAKING: Senate snubs motion to probe Presidential Council scam

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The Senate on Wednesday dumped a motion seeking a comprehensive investigation into the budgetary allocation, operations and controversy surrounding the alleged Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC).

The motion was sponsored by the senator representing Kano South, Senator Suleiman Kawu, who raised it under a point of order during plenary.

Relying on Order 9 and Rule 9(c) of the Senate Standing Orders (2026), Kawu presented a motion titled, “Urgent Need to Investigate the Budgetary Allocation, Operations and Controversy Surrounding the Purported Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) to Safeguard the Integrity of the Senate and the Federal Government.” While presenting the motion, the lawmaker expressed concern over the growing public controversy surrounding the council, saying the issue had generated widespread allegations and conflicting claims.

According to him, the Senate needed to examine the matter to protect the credibility of both the National Assembly and the Federal Government. However, the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, who presided over the plenary, ruled that the motion should not be debated.

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Jibrin explained that the Executive had already initiated action on the matter, noting that President Bola Tinubu had directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission to investigate the controversy. He urged lawmakers to allow the anti-corruption agency to complete its investigation before the Senate considers any further legislative action.

The ruling effectively halted debate on the motion, leaving the ongoing ICPC investigation as the primary official inquiry into the alleged activities of the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council.

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Just in: Fear as Iran threatens to paralyse global oil flow if US attacks again

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Iran has vowed to paralyse global oil flow and expand the war to the Red Sea if the US launches new attacks.

After Donald Trump declared an end to the ceasefire, Iran laid out the steps it would take if strikes on the Islamic Republic continued.

The first step of its response would be stopping all oil leaving the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb strait, the choke point linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

Iran also said it would destroy neighbouring countries’ oil infrastructure.

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“Any renewed aggression on the part of the enemy must be met with a response that directly targets the vital interests of the United States and its allies,” said the plan, which was published by the Fars news agency.

The threats came after Donald Trump declared an end to the ceasefire with Iran.

The US president launched overnight strikes on Tehran and said attempts to negotiate with the regime were “a waste of time”.

In an angry address at the Nato summit in Ankara, Mr Trump told reporters: “These are evil, sick people,” and described them as scum and a cancer that needs to be cut out.

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Asked specifically about the peace deal, Mr Trump said: “To me, I think it’s over. I don’t want to deal with them any more.”

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Sad: Kola Olawuyi’s widow, Abimbola, is dead

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Abimbola, the widow of the late investigative broadcaster and storyteller Kola Olawuyi, has died.

She passed away 19 years after her husband, who was famed for his programme ‘Nnkan Nbe’ a show that explored eerie and captivating topics, including the supernatural.

Olawuyi, who served as Managing Director of Kolbims Communications, died in March 2007 at a Lagos hospital.

Yomi Ayano, a former colleague of the late broadcaster, confirmed the death of his late boss’s widow in a statement posted on his Facebook page on Tuesday. Mr Ayano, who did not disclose the cause of Abimbola’s death, confirmed she passed away on Monday.

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He writes: “Yes, it is true. The wife of my late boss, Akolawole Olawuyi, Pastor (Mrs) Taiwo Abimbola Olawuyi, joined her husband on 6 July 2026.

“Thanks to all the friends and followers of Nkan Nla, and all the associates of our former Kolbim Communication Ltd and Irinkerindo Arole Akolawole Olawuyi programmes, who have been calling me for confirmation.

“May her soul rest in peace.
” Please await further genuine information from us.”

PM News reported on Tuesday that a family source described Abimbola as the pillar of the household. The source said she assumed the responsibilities left behind following her husband’s death.

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According to the source, the late Abimbola, a pastor, was a dedicated mother whose resilience, calm strength, and steadfast commitment held the family together throughout the difficult years that followed the veteran journalist’s passing. The source added that her death has left relatives, friends and well-wishers grieving, noting that funeral arrangements would be announced later.

“Her death is truly painful. She had been taking care of the family and the four children left by her husband, Kola Olawuyi, and now the children are orphans. Only God knows what lies ahead for them. I am deeply pained,” PM News quoted the source as saying.

In a 2018 interview with Asabe Afrika TV, the late Abimbola reflected that life had not been easy since the death of her husband. She said she remained grateful to God for giving her the strength to persevere and continue the ministry established by the late broadcaster.

Olawuyi, who grew up in Ibadan, Oyo State, was born to Williams Inaolaji Olawuyi and Alhaja Olawuyi. He built a distinguished career at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, where he introduced the influential programme ‘Ìrírí Ayé’ in 1992. The programme created a distinct identity in Nigerian broadcasting and soon attracted a large audience.

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Before his death, Olawuyi was nearing the completion of a Master’s degree in Communication Arts at the University of Ibadan. She is survived by their four children.

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