News
Our 3MTT scheme has launched 3m Nigerians into global hub-Engr Yabo+Photos
The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Engr Faruk Yusuf Yabo has said the 3MTT is justifiably launching three million Nigerians into the global hub.
Speaking at the ongoing 12th National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, NCCDE holding from 2nd To 6th December in Makurdi, Benue State, Engr Yabo said:
“Looking at this eminent gathering today, I am proud to inform you that the Ministry has a dedicated National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), set up as a digital innovation and research facility focused on AI, Robotics and Drones, Internet of Things (IOT), and other emerging technologies, aimed at transforming the Nigerian digital economy, in line with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020-2030.
“Also, the ongoing nationwide talent development 3MTT, aimed to train three million digital talents, is justifiably positioning Nigeria as a global hub for the application of AI.
” Also, the recent effort of the Ministry to drive home-grown research through the provision of research grants to forty-five Artificial Intelligence starts-ups and researchers through the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme (NAIRS) in critical sectors of the country is evident of emerging Nigeria’s talent and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
” Additionally, the boundaries of Nigeria’s AI efforts extend beyond domestic lines. In 2023, Nigeria signed the Bletch-ley Declaration on AI, along with 28 other nations, including the UK and France, committing to AI development that mitigates risk.
” Similarly, Nigeria joined 18 different countries that adopted the United State-led coalition to ensure AI is secured by design.
“The acceleration and enhancement of AI in Nigeria, the Ministry has ensured the provision of adequate infrastructure through the Right-of-Way (RoW) Policy where telecommunication operators pay to state governments to lay fiber optic cables that carry internet traffic on state roads.
“In 2013 the National Economic Council (NEC) agreed on a maximum RoW charge of N145 per linear meter, a policy meant to streamline the costs for telecommunication charges.
” January 2020 was a step in the right direction when the Nigerian Governors Forum accordingly resolved that telecommunication operators were to pay N145 in line with NEC’s approval.
“More than 10 states have either crashed RoW Charges to N145 per linear meter of fiber optic or completely eliminated the charges to zero. This year 2024, the Executive Vice-Chairman NCC stated that discussion with other state governments were ongoing to secure additional waivers on RoW Charges.
“Also there have been calls from well-meaning Nigerians on states to implement the harmonized RoW Charges for obvious benefits for the sector.
“The National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) will always begin with you as the technical session of experts and industry stakeholders.
“At this session, you are expected to review the implementation of resolutions reached at the 11th Council meeting and how they have contributed to the development of the Nigeria Digital Economy sector within the period.
” You will also be involved in the consideration of memoranda submitted for the 12th NCCIDE meeting given them the desired content that would meet the standard for council approval for the development of the Digital Economy sector.
“I wish on behalf of the Hon. Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Dr. Bosun Tijani, management and staff of the ministry thank our Chief Host, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr Hyacinth Iormen Alia, His Excellency the Deputy Governor and members of the State Executive Council for accepting to host the 12th Council meeting and providing the necessary support for the success of this event even when the economy is affecting governments at all levels.
“The reception we have received since our arrival in this beautiful ancient city has been heartwarming.
“A dedicated National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), set up as a digital innovation and research facility focused on AI, Robotics and Drones, Internet of Things (IOT), and other emerging technologies, aimed at transforming the Nigerian digital economy, in line with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020-2030.
“The session has been sub-divided into 5 syndicate groups to handle memos that fall under each specific category of ;
a. Knowledge;
b. policy;
c. Infrastructure;
d. Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Capital and
e. Trade
“Distinguished participants, ladies and gentlemen, this crucial interaction represents our collective efforts towards re-positioning our country in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration of Renewed Hope Agenda.
“It’s therefore calls for the dedication of everybody engaged in this assignment to chat a path towards the formulation of policies and new strategies for the realization of a new Nigeria.
“I wish to encourage our distinguished participants to take advantage of the many sessions at this meeting to come up to speed on the sub-themes in line with the present-day realities and also, take advantage of the networking opportunities available during the Council meeting to forge strategic partnerships that will further enhance developments in the digital technology sector.
“Once again, on behalf of the Hon. Minister, I most sincerely welcome you all to the 12th National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and implore you to maximize your participation by contributing fully to all the discussions with a view to moving the digital economy sector and the country’s economy to the next level.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has stepped in to call for immediate action in the case of Segun Olowookere, an indigene who was sentenced to death for stealing a fowl.
Recall Segun’s mother, Folashade Olowookere, emotionally shared the story of her son, who is currently imprisoned, during an interview on Nollywood actress Biola Adebayo’s YouTube podcast. The video gained significant attention, including from Governor Adeleke.
Naijablitznews reports this was contained in a statement from the Governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke directed a swift investigation and ordered that steps be taken for a potential pardon in Segun’s case. The Governor further instructed the Attorney General to ensure Segun is considered for the prerogative of mercy before the year ends.
The statement read, “I have reviewed the case and acknowledge the importance of the separation of powers in our democracy. In this instance, I have instructed the Commissioner for Justice to begin the process of granting mercy to this young man.
“Osun is a state of justice and fairness. We must uphold the protection of lives and ensure equity.
“I want to assure the public that this matter is receiving my personal attention, and we are acting with urgency as a responsible government.”
The Delta State House of Assembly, on Tuesday, recalled two of its members that were suspended in November over alleged gross misconduct.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the recall was announced during plenary in Asaba by the Speaker, Mr Dennis Guwor.
Recall that the Assembly had on November 6 suspended Mr Dafe Chukudi (PDP-Ukwuani) for 14 legislative days over alleged gross misconduct, while Mr Oboro Preyor (PDP-Bomadi) was also suspended for 14 legislative days for the same offense on November 12.
“Dear colleagues, following the allegation of gross misconduct against our suspended members and subsequently, a committee on investigation headed by the Deputy Speaker, Mr Arthur Akpowowo, was set up.
“The committee has commenced investigation. However, the 14 days that they were suspended has elapsed. And by the confidence you all reposed in me as the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, and now that the 14 days of their suspension has elapsed, there is need to recall Mr Dafe Chukudi and Mr Oboro Preyor to resume their duties as members going forward.
“The suspended members are hereby recalled pending on the outcome of their investigative committee.”
Meanwhile, the Deputy Speaker, Mr Arthur Akpowowo, expressed joy over the recall of the lawmakers, saying, “I am very happy that we have lifted their suspension.
“The Speaker has recalled them so that they can celebrate the Christmas with joy and even enter the New Year with some relief of happiness. For me, this is a party gift for me even though I’m not affected.”
By Gloria Ikibah
Ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill to a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives at 12 noon today, there is tight security at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
As early as 6.00 a.m., operatives of the Department of State Security (DSS) and other security agencies, including the Police, Civil Defence, Federal Road Safety Corps, and Sergeant-at-Arms, were stationed at the gates and within the premises to ensure order and safety during the event.
Naijablitznews.com reports that staff of the National Assembly were directed to stay home, except those required for the event, who were instructed to report before 8.00 a.m., according to a memo issued by the Director of Human Resources and Staff Development.
Senators and House members were seen arriving at the Green Chamber, where the joint session is scheduled to take place. On Tuesday, during a closed-door plenary, the House of Representatives followed the tradition of moving a motion to allow non-members into the chamber for the session.
Naijablitznews.com recalled that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved an estimated expenditure of N47.96 trillion for the 2025 fiscal year during its meeting on Monday.
Meanwhile, business activities within the National Assembly complex, including banking and food services, have been suspended following directives from the Assembly’s management. Only those on an approved list, including staff, media personnel, and members of the press corps, are allowed access after identification at the gate.
The joint session will be presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas.
SEE Black Market Dollar (USD) To Naira (NGN) Rate As Of December 18, 2024
Gov Adeleke Speaks On Death Sentence For Chicken Thief
Delta Assembly pardons two suspended members
Just in: Terrorists ambush military truck, kill all soldiers on board
Nigerian Dancer, Korra Obidi Attacked with acid, stabbed on stage In UK
Meet Rare Gem 16 Years Old Chiaza, CEO of ‘RUN MARKET PLACE’
-
Metro23 hours agoPolice barred From Arbitrary Arrests, Detention Of Youths, Collection, Checking Of Phones
-
News21 hours agoN141bn Agreements: Reps to Probe Non-Delivery of Tractors, Harvesters
-
News23 hours agoCJN: Lack of conferencing cause of conflicting Court verdicts
-
Entertainment23 hours agoSinger Portable cries like a baby during prayer session
-
News24 hours agoNoise pollution:Govt Seals The Lord’s Chosen, Celestial Churches, Hotel, Restaurants
-
News23 hours agoDrama At Nigerian Code Of Conduct Tribunal As Two Chairman Lay Claim To Office
-
News17 hours agoFG endorses N30 billion for 30 Fed Universities of Agric to begin mechanized farming
-
News22 hours agoFormer Ughelli/Udu Federal HoR Aspirant, Akpodiete Enrolled Over 120 Beneficiaries Into Health Insurance Scheme