The Acting Director-General, Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), Ms Wofai Samuel, says that Nigeria is yet to fully explore its potential in technology, in spite of the sector’s vast opportunities.Speaking in an interview on Monday, Samuel said that stable power and technology, which are crucial drivers of Nigeria’s economic growth and diversification, were still lacking.

She noted that, as long as Nigeria remained unable to ensure stable power and technology, its growth would be hindered. The NACC boss said that the rapid global pace of technological advancement with everything interconnected was through the internet and data.Emphasising the role of collaborations, both local and international, she cited U.S. collaborations with other regions and countries to advance its tech sector, though it was the biggest tech sector in the world.“An example of America’s collaborative efforts is the recent investment of approximately $600 billion by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince in the U.S. technology sector to advance its technological capabilities.“If America is collaborating with other regions and countries on advancing the tech sector, whereas America is the biggest tech sector, then who are we in Africa not to follow suit?” she queried.Samuel highlighted the global dominance of U.S. tech giants like Meta, Google, Tesla, and X, along with advancements in Artificial Intelligence like ChatGPT and Meta AI, as evidence of the transformative power of technology.Connecting technology and power, Samuel emphasised that consistent power supply was fundamental for technological progress, especially as Nigeria sought to diversify its revenue away from oil.“Without power, how do we even drive technology? So power is correlated to technology. Technology is correlated to power.‘’Given the current global trade landscape, particularly with tariffs imposed by America on various countries and the potential limitations of the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA) for African exports, technology is a key avenue for diversification.“One of the easiest ways, one of the easiest platforms West Africa can diversify into is the technology sector,” she said.The acting director general noted further that the banking sector was an example of how technology had driven growth and improvement, with online banking and mobile banking methods enhancing financial transactions.Samuel referenced the World Bank’s projection of the banking and financial technology sectors as among Nigeria’s fastest-growing in 2025.According to her, the growth can be attributed to technological innovations that enable online and mobile banking.Samuel called on technology-focused platforms in Africa to leverage conferences within and outside the country to drive their growth.She also stressed the importance of government involvement, particularly ministers of communication and commissioners of science and technology, in shaping policies that supported the growth of the sector. (NAN)

By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike has urged Abuja residents to be more committed to peace, tolerance and mutual respect for one another.This was contained in a statement by the FCT Minister in commemoration of Eid-El-Kabir celebration in Abuja.

He assured the residents of their safety during this festive period, because the security agencies are working around the clock to ensure the safety of lives and property. .He said the rapid development of the FCT is because of the unalloyed support of the President Bola Tinubu.He therefore urged them to pray that the Almighty grants President Bola Tinubu good health and more guidance to take the nation to greater heights.The statement reads, “On the occasion of this year’s Eid-El-Kabir celebration, I am delighted to convey the greetings of the Federal Capital Territory Administration to all residents as we celebrate, once more, the joyous occasion. Warmest felicitations to our esteemed Muslim brothers and sisters across the Federal Capital Territory!”As you join millions around the world to celebrate this sacred occasion, we are reminded of the profound values embodied in Eid-el-Kabir—sacrifice, obedience and unwavering faith, as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). It is a time to reflect on the deeper meaning of submission to the will of Allah, and to recommit ourselves to compassion, generosity, and unity. “This celebration is not only a spiritual milestone but also a time to renew our collective commitment to peace, tolerance, and mutual respect. I commend the Muslim community in the FCT for their enduring contributions to the growth and peaceful coexistence within our Territory. Your values and sense of community are integral to our shared progress. “Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, our administration has been working tirelessly to ease the burdens faced by our people. We have made commendable progress in infrastructure development, security enhancement, and social welfare interventions. These efforts are all aimed at improving the quality of life for every resident of the FCT.”We owe the rapid development of the FCT to the unalloyed support the President has given to the FCT Administration. Therefore, I urge you to use this occasion to pray that the Almighty grants President Bola Ahmed Tinubu good health and more guidance to take the nation to greater heights. “In the coming days, we will begin commissioning a plethora of completed projects across the Territory, in celebration of Mr. President’s second year in office. These are critical projects aimed at opening up the healthcare, education, agriculture, transportation and more sectors of the FCT. They stand as visible proof of our commitment to delivering tangible, impactful change and building a capital city that reflects the hopes and aspirations of all Nigerians. “Regarding security, I want to reassure all residents that our security agencies are working around the clock to ensure the safety of lives and property during the holidays and beyond. The FCTA continues to maintain close collaboration with all security operatives to keep Abuja safe and secure. I am proud to say that Abuja remains the safest city in the country, and we are doing everything possible to keep it that way. “Recently, there was a quarry explosion that caused understandable public anxiety and was initially mistaken for a suicide bombing. I want to emphasize that this incident was industrial in nature, not an act of terrorism. Immediate investigations were conducted, and appropriate safety measures are being reinforced to prevent any recurrence. We are committed to transparent communication and proactive management of public safety concerns.”As we gather with family and friends in celebration, let us not forget the less privileged among us. Let the spirit of Eid inspire us to share, to uplift, and to show kindness to those in need”.

By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

In the spirit of the sallah festivities, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Emergency Management Department (FEMD) has provided 3 kilograms of meat each to 150 displaced vulnerable in Abuja.The gesture is in collaboration with a Non-governmental Organization, NEAR Foundation.

This was contained in a statement by FEMD Head of Public Affairs, Nkechi Isa in Abuja. The beneficiaries were selected from Waru and Yimuthu Camps in the FCT. The Head, Relief and Rehabilitation of FEMD, Hajia Fatima Ibrahim said the distribution was to enable the displaced vulnerable to celebrate Eid.She commended NEAR Foundation for their commitment to reaching out to the less privileged in the society.Similarly, the Project Manager NEAR Foundation, Aliyu Harande informed that the Sallah package was part of giving back to the society.Noting that the collaboration with FEMD, begun two years ago, Harande appealed to public spirited individuals to give to the poor.Representatives of both the Waru and Yimuthu Camps Lailatu Abubakar and Christy Dauda respectively appreciated the gesture adding that most families in both Camps could not afford to buy meat.