Category: Science and Technology

By   Milcah   Tanimu

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, will introduce advertisements on Threads, its new social media platform, in January 2025. This move marks a significant step in Meta’s plans to monetize Threads, which launched in July 2023 as a competitor to X (formerly Twitter).

According to sources cited by Reuters, Meta plans to start with a small group of advertisers to test ads on Threads. The initiative will be overseen by Instagram’s advertising division, though Meta has stated that monetization isn’t an immediate priority for the platform’s development.

Revenue Strategy and Growth Plans

While ads will begin appearing on Threads, Meta CFO Susan Li has indicated that Threads is not expected to contribute significantly to revenue in 2025. Instead, Meta aims to focus on building consumer value on the platform before heavily monetizing it.

Li also noted that new features will gradually be added to Threads, potentially enhancing its revenue potential over time. Threads has grown rapidly, now reaching 275 million monthly active users as of November 2024, reflecting a 57% increase since July 2024.

Competitive Landscape

Introducing ads on Threads could provide Meta an edge over X, which has faced advertiser concerns about brand safety since Elon Musk acquired it. X has also experienced a drop in ad revenue, and its recent lawsuit against major brands like Mars and CVS Health highlights the platform’s struggles to maintain advertiser support.

With Threads’ advertising strategy set to launch, Meta aims to leverage its rapidly growing user base and attract advertisers seeking an alternative to X. Adam Mosseri, Head of Threads and Instagram, disclosed that Threads now boasts 275 million monthly active users—a clear sign of its expanding popularity and Meta’s success in competing with other social media platforms.

By   Milcah   Tanimu

The United States Embassy in Abuja has called on the Nigerian government to leverage technology to enhance its national security framework. During the 2024 Annual General Meeting of ASIS International, Senior Regional Security Officer Bradley Markwald emphasized the potential of technology to address Nigeria’s security challenges, such as vast geography and population.

Markwald suggested using satellite-based imagery, drones with AI-powered tracking, and sensor networks to monitor critical areas like borders and infrastructure. He also advocated for modernizing Nigeria’s border control systems with biometric technologies and smart border management systems, which would improve efficiency and security.

Additionally, he highlighted the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s cybersecurity by adopting advanced encryption protocols and AI-driven anomaly detection tools to protect vital infrastructure and sensitive data. Markwald concluded by urging Nigeria to invest in intelligence-sharing and crisis management to ensure a safer future.

The embassy’s recommendations aim to help Nigeria safeguard its citizens, secure critical assets, and improve its overall resilience.

By   Milcah  Tanimu

Telecommunications provider 9mobile reported a significant loss of subscribers in September, as 7,127 users switched to competing networks. Data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) reveals that 9mobile accounted for 90% of the total 7,886 outgoing porting requests, with the remaining 10% shared among MTN, Airtel, and Globacom. This customer loss follows 9mobile’s recent acquisition by LH Telecommunications Limited, which appointed a new board and leadership team to stabilize the company.

Incoming Porting Trends

While 9mobile faced high outgoing porting, MTN gained the majority of incoming porting, adding 4,987 new subscribers from other networks, making up 63% of total incoming porting. Airtel followed with 2,205 new users, and Globacom gained 664. In contrast, 9mobile recorded just 30 incoming subscribers during the month.

Current Subscriber Base and Industry Position

As of September, 9mobile’s subscriber base dropped to 3.6 million, reflecting a consistent decline in market share. Meanwhile, MTN maintained its lead with 78 million active subscriptions, followed by Airtel’s 53.7 million and Globacom’s 19 million.

Reasons for Subscriber Porting

NCC cites multiple reasons for subscriber porting, including service quality and competitive promotional rates offered by other networks.

What to Know about 9mobile’s Recent Acquisition

In July, LH Telecommunications Limited acquired a majority stake in 9mobile, with approval from the NCC, FCCPC, and AFREXIM. The new board, led by Chairman Thomas Etuh, aims to revitalize the company’s market position and attract more customers back to the network.

The integration of technology in education is no longer optional—it has become essential for preparing students for the rapidly changing global workforce. For Nigeria, this shift is not just about improving speed but about transforming the educational system to equip students with the skills they need to thrive anywhere in the world.

As an educational technology strategist, I envision Nigeria’s classrooms as hubs of innovation. By integrating robots, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and advanced technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), we can prepare Nigerian children for the challenges and opportunities they will face in the future.

Harnessing IoT for a Dynamic Learning Environment

The Internet of Things (IoT) offers the potential to revolutionize the learning experience in Nigerian classrooms. This technology can create a more interactive and responsive educational environment by connecting devices, data, and students.

For instance, imagine classrooms that are equipped with IoT-enabled tools, which allow students to learn coding and engineering through hands-on experiences. Moreover, smart boards can adapt in real time to student feedback, making the learning process more dynamic. Furthermore, IoT enables remote learning, helping to bridge the educational gap in rural areas by providing access to resources that might otherwise be unavailable.

Using Robotics to Foster Critical Thinking

In addition to teaching machine-building, robotics in education plays a crucial role in promoting critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving—skills that are indispensable in today’s digital landscape. By introducing robotics early in Nigerian schools, we can foster creativity and curiosity in young minds.

As students design and program robots, they not only learn to approach problems logically but also think innovatively and communicate effectively. These are the very skills that are highly sought after in the modern workplace. Countries like South Korea and Finland have already embraced robotics in their classrooms. Therefore, Nigeria must follow suit to prepare its youth for the age of automation and industry.

AI and Machine Learning: Personalizing Education for High-Skilled Jobs

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) present a unique opportunity to personalize education for every student. These technologies enable educators to adjust courses according to each student’s learning style, ensuring that no Nigerian student, regardless of their background or location, is left behind.

Moreover, by understanding AI and ML, students will be better equipped to pursue high-skilled jobs in rapidly growing sectors such as data science, cybersecurity, and automation. These fields are integral to the future workforce, and students who master these technologies will be well-prepared for these opportunities.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the tremendous potential of integrating these technologies into Nigerian classrooms, several challenges must be addressed. Issues such as inadequate funding, poor internet access, and a shortage of trained teachers pose significant barriers. However, these obstacles are not insurmountable.

Government initiatives, along with public-private partnerships, will be crucial in overcoming these challenges. The Nigerian government should prioritize tech-focused education, invest in teacher training, and improve educational infrastructure to ensure that a future-ready workforce is created.

Conclusion

Integrating IoT, robotics, and AI/ML into Nigerian education is not merely a visionary move—it is a necessary step to align the nation’s educational system with the demands of the global labor market. These technologies will equip Nigerian students with the skills they need to succeed both at home and internationally.

Ultimately, our goal should be to provide Nigerian students with the tools they need to create, lead, and thrive in a technologically advanced world. Embracing educational technology will drive Nigeria’s development, positioning it as a global hub of knowledge, innovation, and progress.

By   Milcah    Tanimu

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has cleared Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) of blame for data depletion and billing issues, attributing these concerns instead to the impact of advanced technology and high-resolution devices on data usage. Speaking at the Telecoms Consumer Parliament in Abuja, Dr. Aminu Wada Maida, NCC Executive Vice Chairman, explained that an audit confirmed no wrongdoing by telecom operators regarding billing practices.

Dr. Maida noted that Nigeria’s daily data usage surged by 39% in 2024, driven by increased social media activity and high-definition streaming. He explained that advanced devices now consume significantly more data, with an hour on social media or streaming requiring up to 5GB. To promote transparency, NCC plans to publish detailed tariff tables and coverage maps to help consumers make informed decisions.

The NCC also assured subscribers that ongoing campaigns on fair billing and data use will continue, addressing the challenges in Nigeria’s telecom sector. Additionally, the Commission is collaborating with stakeholders to address rising operational costs and infrastructure security issues.

By Muhammad Ibrahim, Goronyo

The Sokoto State Government has approved the creation of the Sokoto ICT Development Agency, as announced by Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto during the launch of a digital and technical skills training program aimed at empowering 10,000 youths. The event took place at the Command Guest Inn’s conference hall in Sokoto.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu disclosed that the state Attorney General has been instructed to submit a draft law for the establishment of the agency. A statement by Garba Muhammad, Director of Press for the Deputy Governor, mentioned that the governor also urged the State House of Assembly to expedite consideration of the draft.

Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to fostering ICT development, the governor noted that the program is part of a broader initiative to integrate all ministries, departments, and agencies into ICT-driven initiatives. Represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Idris Mohammed Director Gobir, Governor Aliyu highlighted Sokoto’s pioneering role as the first state to establish a Ministry for Innovation and Digital Economy, aimed at ensuring the state remains at the forefront of ICT advancements.

In his welcoming remarks, the State Commissioner for Innovation and Digital Economy, Alhaji Bashir Ummarun Kwabo, explained that the training program, supported by the state government, will be conducted in batches, both physically and virtually. He emphasized that the program includes significant representation of women and will provide participants with technical skills, support, and mentorship.

Alhaji Kwabo expressed gratitude for the state government’s commitment and political will in advancing the digital economy.

By   Milcah   Tanimu

OpenAI is exploring a significant shift from its non-profit origins to a for-profit model. This change follows a recent $6.6 billion funding round. The company has begun discussions with regulators in California and Delaware.

Sources familiar with the situation say that OpenAI is talking with the California attorney general’s office about the complexities of changing its corporate structure. The attorney general of Delaware also engages with OpenAI and requests detailed plans for the potential restructuring. These discussions will focus on valuing OpenAI’s lucrative intellectual property, including its proprietary ChatGPT technology.

OpenAI was established in 2015 as a non-profit organization with a mission to develop AI for the greater good. Its shift to a for-profit model raises questions about its commitment to societal benefit. Bret Taylor, chairman of the nonprofit board, assured that the nonprofit will continue to play a role in any restructured entity. He stated that any potential restructuring would ensure the nonprofit continues to exist and thrive.

This transition follows OpenAI’s 2019 decision to create a capped for-profit subsidiary to address the high costs of AI development. This change has created tensions within the organization. Concerns exist about balancing AI safety with commercial goals. This tension became public in 2023 when CEO Sam Altman faced a brief ousting amid a dispute over commercialization.

Legal experts warn that the regulatory process could become complicated. California law requires organizations to properly value their nonprofit assets. The law also mandates that these assets serve a charitable purpose. Given OpenAI’s substantial intellectual property portfolio, compliance with these requirements will prove crucial.

Jason Kwon, OpenAI’s Chief Strategy Officer, informed staff during a September meeting about the restructuring. He stated that it would aim to preserve a nonprofit entity with a meaningful stake in the for-profit company. Determining the exact percentage of this stake and valuing the assets will be vital for securing regulatory approval.

Earlier this year, billionaire Elon Musk filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and its co-founders. Musk, a co-founder and early backer of the company, argued that OpenAI should remain a non-profit focused on developing AI for humanity. He claimed that the founding agreement required OpenAI to make its technology “freely available” to the public.

By  Milcah   Tanimu

The Federal Government has launched an advanced surveillance control room to boost security on the Third Mainland Bridge and surrounding areas. Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, announced this during a visit to Lagos to review infrastructure projects. Staffed by the Army, Navy, Police, and local security, the control room operates rapid-response vehicles and boats, ensuring incidents are addressed within five minutes.

Senator Umahi plans to expand these security measures to major highways. This includes the Lagos-Calabar, Sokoto-Badagry, Trans-Sahara, Abuja-Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe, Keffi-Makurdi, Lagos-Ibadan, and Abuja-Kano roads. Additionally, solar lighting will be installed along these routes to improve night visibility and support local economies.

Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Peter Nwebonyi, praised the initiative, noting the CCTV control room’s potential to reduce crime and protect infrastructure. He encouraged road users to follow traffic rules to support overall safety.

Senate Minority Whip, Senator Osita Ngwu, highlighted the government’s commitment to infrastructure safety. He praised the recent start of the coastal road project in Ondo, emphasizing the Senate’s support for these initiatives.

Senator Mpigi Barinada from Rivers South East also commended the measures. He called for fair project implementation across all regions, including the South-East and South-South. He stressed that transparency and accountability are essential for effective project oversight.

Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Akin Alabi, confirmed the importance of parliamentary oversight for these initiatives. He supported the minister’s efforts to address infrastructure challenges and praised Umahi’s assertive approach to ensuring contractors meet government standards.

Earlier, the Ministry of Works began construction on the Ondo section of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway. This step demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to expanding road infrastructure.

By   Milcah   Tanimu

Kenyan cleantech startup Octavia Carbon has raised $5 million in seed funding. The funds will help scale its carbon capture operations and build a Direct Air Capture (DAC) storage plant. Lateral Frontier and E4E Africa led the round, with support from Catalyst Fund, Launch Africa, Fondation Botnar, and Renew Capital.

Founded in 2022 by Martin Freimüller and Duncan Kariuki, Octavia Carbon focuses on removing CO2 from the atmosphere. It uses DAC technology, which draws air into machines, filters out CO2, and stores it underground. In Kenya, the CO2 is injected into the Rift Valley’s porous basalt, where it solidifies over time.

Freimüller and Kariuki initially built their first carbon capture machine on a kitchen table. Now, with this new funding, they plan to launch the first phase of the plant later this year.

Freimüller emphasized that Octavia stands out by using Kenya’s geothermal energy, especially waste heat. This significantly reduces DAC costs. In fact, 80% of the company’s electricity needs are powered by geothermal waste.

Octavia generates revenue by selling carbon credits to offset emissions for companies and individuals. So far, it has pre-sold 2,000 tons of CO2, potentially earning over $1 million in revenue. The current cost of extracting a ton of CO2 ranges from $680 to $820. However, Octavia aims to reduce this to $100 as it scales up to capture 1,000 tons annually.

Globally, Octavia is one of only 18 DAC companies, including Climeworks and Carbon Engineering. These firms are critical to achieving the United Nations’ carbon removal goals. Octavia also plans to become an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for DAC machines, allowing it to sell technology to developers worldwide.