Category: Science and Technology

In a recent development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has summoned the Minister of Education, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN) regarding the proposed discontinuation of the Higher National Diploma (HND) in Pharmaceutical Technology. This action comes in response to a request from several holders of the HND Pharmaceutical Technology certificate who are opposed to the change.

Justice Peter Lifu issued the summons while ruling on an urgent application filed by the affected individuals. The court has ordered the three defendants to appear before it on Friday, August 16, 2024, to explain why a restraining order against their decision should not be issued.

According to a circular from the NBTE dated April 7, 2024, the board decided to end the issuance of HND certificates in Pharmaceutical Technology across all institutions under its authority. The circular, signed by NBTE Executive Secretary Prof. Idris Bugaje, announced that while existing students would be permitted to complete their studies, no new admissions would be allowed from April 2024 onward. The NBTE will continue to approve and accredit National Diploma programs in Pharmacy Technology.

The circular also noted that while graduates of the HND program might face challenges finding positions in clinical settings according to the PCN, they could pursue employment in other sectors.

Discontented with this decision, six plaintiffs, represented by lawyer Wumi Adebayo, initiated legal proceedings last month against the NBTE and the PCN. They have requested an interim injunction to prevent the implementation of the circular and to safeguard the employment opportunities for current graduates.

The court has highlighted the omission of the Minister of Education from the lawsuit, given that the minister was central to the decision to discontinue the HND program. Justice Lifu has directed the plaintiffs to revise their application to include the minister and ensure all necessary parties are properly notified.

The plaintiffs are Abdul Aziz Bello, AbdulRasheed Tanimu, Osaro Odeh, Comrade Olufemi Adebisi, the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, and the National Association of Pharmaceutical Technologists and Pharmacy Technicians of Nigeria. The defendants are the NBTE and PCN.

By Milcah Tanimu

In a significant boost to Nigeria’s space ambitions, the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has teamed up with Proforce Ltd. to develop a series of cutting-edge satellites. The project will include NigeriaSAT 3, 4, 5, and a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite.

During a recent visit to Proforce Ltd., NASRDA’s Director-General, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, shared details of the collaboration with the company’s Group Managing Director, Mr. Ade Ogundeyin. This initiative is set to advance national security, enhance agricultural practices, facilitate technology transfer, and generate new employment opportunities within the aerospace sector.

Proforce Ltd., renowned for its expertise in security solutions, will play a pivotal role in the success of these satellite projects.

Dr. Adepoju emphasized the transformative impact of these satellites, stating, “These satellites will support precision agriculture, comprehensive monitoring, and data collection, leading to increased food security and enhanced defense capabilities. They will also benefit maritime operations and the oil and gas industry, positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global aerospace arena.”

Mr. Ogundeyin expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, noting, “This collaboration will drive forward satellite technology advancements and deliver substantial benefits to the nation. The results will stand as a significant achievement under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

Dr. Adepoju also encouraged private investors to explore opportunities in the space sector, reflecting the global trend of private sector leadership in space development.

In related developments, the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) is working on replacing its aging satellite, NIGCOMSAT-1R, which is nearing the end of its operational life. Managing Director Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen has called for global investment to support the launch of NIGCOMSAT 2 and 3, following previous unsuccessful attempts to secure funding and launch new satellites.

The Federal Government remains committed to leveraging satellite technology to promote efficient aviation, with Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Technology, Mr. Festus Keyamo, highlighting its potential to enhance air traffic management, weather forecasting, and overall aviation safety.

By Milcah Tanimu

Rust, the programming language, is transforming the landscape of software development much like how iron ore reshaped human history. Just as ancient processes turned dissolved iron into usable minerals, Rust is turning outdated C code into secure, efficient, and future-ready material. This transformation is being propelled by modern entities like DARPA, which aims to refine the vast amounts of existing C code using machine learning tools, creating a secure foundation for future technological advancements.

The idea is simple yet powerful: using large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Gemini, which already perform impressively in general tasks, to develop specialized tools that convert C code into Rust. Despite the known quirks of LLMs, such as hallucination, this approach could be promising, especially given the focused scope and training data involved.

One of the challenges is dealing with cases where the original source code isn’t available. However, this isn’t a dead end. Decompilation, the process of reconstructing source code from an executable binary, offers a way forward. Although this process is complex and requires substantial expertise, it is well-suited to LLM-driven tools that can identify patterns rather than depend on labels or comments.

The potential of a C-to-Rust tool with a decompilation front end is intriguing, and the concept could extend to other programming languages. By incorporating Just In Time (JIT) compilation—where code is compiled on the user’s machine rather than pre-distributed—this tool could act as a security amplifier. It would allow users to open, rebuild, and secure any code, regardless of its origin, age, or obscurity.

There are, of course, concerns about the practicality of this vision. The reliability of LLMs in security-critical contexts and the resource demands of decompilation and recompilation are significant hurdles. However, the specificity of the task and advancements in AI and hardware could mitigate these challenges.

Beyond the technical and logistical issues, two major questions arise: legality and the broader implications of such a tool. The legal question is particularly thorny, as this technology blurs the line between closed and open-source software, potentially disrupting the current intellectual property landscape. Big Tech is unlikely to welcome a tool that converts proprietary code into open-source material, yet it might struggle to stop it.

The broader implications are even more profound. If this technology becomes a reality, it could democratize software development, allowing anyone—not just skilled programmers—to modify and improve software. This could range from customizing user interfaces to removing unwanted features, fundamentally altering the relationship between users and the software they rely on.

In conclusion, while still in the realm of speculation, the idea of an LLM-driven C-to-Rust tool represents a potentially revolutionary shift in software development. It challenges existing power structures in technology and could grant unprecedented control to ordinary users. If realized, this tool could disrupt not just the software industry but the very way we interact with technology.

By   Milcah   Tanimu

MTN’s MoMo service in Ghana, a crucial tool for mobile transactions, is currently under scrutiny due to increasing reports of fraud. Users are expressing significant concerns about the security of their funds on the platform, following a series of alarming incidents.

A viral thread on X drew attention to the issue when a user, @_Jay_Sterling_, warned that fraudsters could now access cash from MoMo accounts without needing the user’s PIN. This warning sparked widespread anxiety among users, many of whom shared their troubling experiences online.

One user recounted a near-fraudulent incident where they received an unexpected MoMo authorization request and a call from someone pretending to correct a mistaken transaction. The fraudster attempted to guide the user through a fake PIN change process, but the user recognized the scam and avoided sharing their PIN.

Another user described a more elaborate scheme involving fraudulent calls and unauthorized transactions. After initially being deceived into providing personal information, the user received calls from individuals posing as MTN staff, further attempting to extract sensitive details. Despite reporting the incident to MTN, the user felt the response was inadequate.

These experiences reflect a growing frustration among MoMo users who feel that MTN Ghana is not doing enough to prevent and address fraud. Complaints include difficulties in reaching customer service and slow resolution of fraud cases. Some users are calling for improved security measures and better responsiveness from MTN.

While MTN Ghana has previously advised users to safeguard their PINs and be cautious of sharing personal information, recent reports suggest that fraudsters may now be bypassing PIN requirements altogether. Attempts to get an official comment from MTN Ghana on these latest issues have so far been unsuccessful.

By   Milcah    Tanimu

The global artificial intelligence (AI) sector has been on an unprecedented growth trajectory, with the number of AI startups more than doubling over the past five years. In 2023 alone, AI startups secured over $50 billion in venture capital funding, according to PitchBook, highlighting the sector’s immense potential. By 2024, the global AI market is anticipated to reach $500 billion, supported by over 10,000 startups and annual investments surpassing $100 billion. This rapid expansion underscores AI’s transformative influence, which is set to become a cornerstone of future economic development and innovation across industries.

AI is reshaping startups globally, driving innovation and enhancing efficiency across a myriad of sectors. In healthcare, AI-powered tools are revolutionizing diagnostics and predictive analytics, leading to improved patient outcomes. In fintech, AI is key to detecting fraud, personalizing banking experiences, and crafting sophisticated investment strategies. Retail and e-commerce sectors are harnessing AI for inventory management, customer service automation, and targeted marketing. The transportation industry benefits from AI innovations in autonomous vehicles and logistics optimization. Success stories from startups like OpenAI, DeepMind, and UiPath highlight AI’s profound impact on industries worldwide.

In Africa, particularly Nigeria, the AI revolution has been slower compared to other regions but is gaining momentum. Governments, tech hubs, and incubators are increasingly fostering AI innovation, laying the foundation for a thriving startup ecosystem. Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and other government bodies are championing AI research and development, recently launching an AI research program that offers grants to startups and researchers. Meanwhile, tech hubs like CCHub in Lagos and AI labs in Nairobi are nurturing local talent and providing platforms for AI-driven entrepreneurship, setting the stage for a robust AI ecosystem in the region.

AI presents transformative opportunities for startups across Africa, especially in sectors with unique challenges:

**Agriculture**: As a cornerstone of African economies, agriculture stands to benefit immensely from AI. Startups are developing AI-driven solutions to optimize crop yields, enhance precision farming, and improve pest and disease management. By analyzing weather patterns, soil conditions, and crop health, AI helps farmers make informed decisions, increasing productivity and sustainability.

**Healthcare**: AI is transforming healthcare by improving diagnostics, medical imaging, and personalized treatment plans. Startups are leveraging AI to develop tools for early disease detection, telemedicine, and drug discovery, enhancing healthcare access and outcomes, particularly in regions with limited medical resources.

**Education**: AI-powered educational tools are personalizing learning experiences, adapting to individual student needs. Startups are using AI to create adaptive learning tools, online courses, and skill development programs, equipping students for the modern job market. AI also aids in teacher training and curriculum development, improving educational quality.

**Finance**: Fintech startups are utilizing AI to enhance financial services through personalized financial advice, fraud detection, and credit scoring. AI-driven solutions in fintech promote financial inclusion, providing accessible banking services to underserved populations and empowering them with credit, insurance, and other essential financial services.

Several African AI startups are already making significant progress:

– **Kudi.ai (Nigeria)**: An AI-powered fintech startup simplifying banking through conversational AI, enabling seamless transactions and financial management via chatbots.
– **Zindi (South Africa)**: A platform that leverages AI to address African challenges by connecting data scientists with organizations to solve issues in healthcare, agriculture, and energy.
– **4G Capital (Kenya)**: An AI-driven fintech company offering microloans to small businesses, using AI to assess creditworthiness and manage risk, fostering economic growth.

Other companies, such as Terragon, though not exclusively AI-focused, are leveraging AI to enhance their services, optimize marketing strategies, and analyze consumer data, thereby contributing to Africa’s AI ecosystem.

Despite the promising landscape, AI adoption in Nigeria and Africa faces challenges, including limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, and a skills gap. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach:

– **Education and Skill Development**: Investing in STEM education and fostering a culture of continuous learning to build a skilled workforce capable of driving AI innovation.
– **Collaboration**: Encouraging partnerships between governments, private companies, and international organizations to provide the necessary resources and support for AI initiatives.
– **Infrastructure Development**: Building robust digital infrastructure, including reliable internet connectivity and data storage facilities, to facilitate AI deployment.

The future of AI-driven startups in Nigeria and Africa holds immense potential. Embracing AI can drive growth, create jobs, and spur economic development across the continent. It is crucial for stakeholders to collaborate in creating an environment that supports AI innovation, ensuring that Nigeria and Africa can fully harness the benefits of this transformative technology. As AI continues to revolutionize the startup landscape, it becomes clear that leveraging this technology is essential for staying competitive and achieving long-term success in the global market.

By   Milcah  Tanimu

Google is bringing its Gemini AI, which was previously available only to Workspace users, to personal Gmail accounts on Android devices. This expansion introduces several advanced features designed to enhance email management.

The integration adds a new Gemini button in the Gmail app, which offers tools such as email summarization, suggested replies, drafting assistance, and improved search functionality. Users can now quickly grasp the main points of lengthy email threads, receive AI-generated response options, get help composing new emails, and find specific emails or information more efficiently.

Though the rollout is gradual, this development aims to make email interactions smoother and more intuitive for Gmail users.

By  Milcah   Tanimu

The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) has recommended that the Nigerian government streamline the regulatory roles of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to address overlapping regulations in the digital sector.

In its report titled “Collaborative Regulation: Accelerating Nigeria’s Digital Transformation,” launched recently in Abuja, the ITU highlighted the need for clarity in the functions of these agencies, particularly in areas such as ICT policy development, data protection, and content regulation.

The report underscores the importance of clear delineation of roles between NITDA and NCC, especially given the increasing convergence between telecommunications, IT, and ICTs. It noted that the overlap in mandates could lead to regulatory inefficiencies and confusion in the sector.

The ITU pointed out that the NITDA Amendment Bill currently before the National Assembly should clarify NITDA’s mandate, emphasizing the need to define whether NITDA is a standards body, a regulatory authority, or a policy-making institution. It warned that without such clarification, there could be conflicts between NITDA and other sector regulators, including NCC, leading to duplicated roles, licences, and fees.

The report also highlighted concerns raised by stakeholders in the Nigerian ICT industry regarding the NITDA Amendment Bill. Organizations such as the Computer Professionals Council of Nigeria (CPN), Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), and Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) have criticized the bill, fearing it could make NITDA a ‘super regulator’ in the industry.

Ayoola Oke, CEO of ICT Derivatives Ltd., noted that the NITDA Act of 2007 was primarily aimed at facilitating ICT adoption across the nation, supporting infrastructure and connectivity. He argued that the new bill seeks to transform NITDA into a regulatory body, which could create overlaps with existing agencies already performing regulatory functions in the ICT sector.

The ITU’s recommendations call for a clear and streamlined regulatory framework to foster Nigeria’s digital transformation and ensure effective governance in the rapidly evolving digital economy.

By Milcah Tanimu

Recent speculations about WhatsApp possibly suspending its operations in Nigeria have sparked a response from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). The FCCPC has characterized these reports as a strategic maneuver by the tech giant to sway public opinion amid an ongoing dispute over regulatory compliance.

WhatsApp, owned by Meta, is facing a hefty $220 million fine imposed by the FCCPC. This fine is a result of alleged violations concerning data privacy and consumer protection laws. The commission accuses WhatsApp of exploiting Nigerian users’ data without proper consent, violating both the FCCPC Act 2018 and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation 2019 (NDPR).

The FCCPC has demanded that WhatsApp cease sharing Nigerian user data with other Meta companies and third parties without explicit authorization. This penalty follows a three-year investigation into the company’s practices.

In response to these claims, WhatsApp has denied the allegations, describing the FCCPC’s accusations as inaccurate. The company stated that it relies on minimal data to operate and maintain user safety, and any claims to the contrary misrepresent their data handling practices. WhatsApp has announced its intention to appeal the decision to prevent any potential impact on Nigerian users.

The FCCPC, however, stands firm on its position. In a statement, the commission emphasized that the $220 million fine is intended to prevent future violations and ensure compliance with Nigerian laws. The FCCPC asserts that similar penalties in other jurisdictions have not led to companies threatening to exit those markets.

Tunde Irukera, the former Vice Chairman of the FCCPC, dismissed WhatsApp’s threat to leave Nigeria as mere “rhetoric.” He criticized the company’s attempt to use such threats to avoid regulatory scrutiny, suggesting it reflects poorly on the company’s governance and compliance culture.

Irukera urged Nigerians not to be swayed by these threats and to focus on whether WhatsApp’s practices were indeed in violation of the law. He also questioned why the company does not make similar threats in response to regulatory actions in other countries where Meta faces penalties.

By Milcah Tanimu

Mr. Olayimika Oyebanji, a Web 3 policy expert and award-winning crypto journalist, discusses how blockchain technology can enhance transparency in Nigeria’s oil industry. He explains that blockchain can disrupt and improve any industry, including the oil sector, by promoting high standards of accountability and transparency. Oyebanji highlights that blockchain can automate testing processes via smart contracts, ensuring data integrity and reducing fraudulent manipulation. Nigeria has already made significant strides with a national blockchain roadmap outlining adoption strategies. However, the implementation may face resistance from those opposed to increased probity, though strong government support can overcome these challenges. Oyebanji references Olinga Taeed, an advisor to the Chinese government, who supports the use of blockchain in the petroleum industry, underscoring the technology’s potential to revolutionize the sector.

By Milcah Tanimu

Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Instagram, is launching a groundbreaking feature that allows users to create custom AI-powered chatbots for their profiles. This new tool, AI Studio, is designed to empower creators by integrating advanced artificial intelligence directly into Instagram.

The AI Studio feature enables users with professional accounts to design chatbots that can answer specific questions and avoid certain topics. This initiative aims to enhance user engagement and provide a more personalized experience. Creators can customize their AI chatbots based on their Instagram content, topics to avoid, and preferred links to share. These AI characters can be created at ai.meta.com/ai-studio or within the Instagram app and shared with followers across Instagram, Messenger, WhatsApp, and the web.

AI chatbots can share facts about creators, link to favorite brands, and reference past videos, helping creators engage with a broader audience and provide faster responses to fans. This feature is not limited to professional creators; all Instagram users can develop themed chatbots tailored to their interests, such as Nigerian cuisine, Nollywood movies, or local football.

Through the professional dashboard in the Instagram app, creators can manage their AI responses, turning auto-replies on and off and deciding who their AI interacts with. Responses from AI chatbots are clearly labeled for transparency. These features will be rolled out more broadly in the coming weeks, offering enhanced engagement opportunities for all Instagram users.

Meta has heavily invested in AI, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg aiming to develop world-leading chatbots. The company recently released Llama 3.1, an AI model designed to enhance chatbot capabilities, featuring improved reasoning, text synthesis, and generative AI that can create images based on text prompts.

Meta has expanded its AI services to seven Sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. This expansion aims to improve connectivity and provide advanced tools for creativity, expression, and productivity across the continent. Users can access Meta AI through various apps to perform tasks, learn, create, and connect seamlessly.

Mark Zuckerberg highlighted the company’s ambition to build the world’s leading AI, stating that Meta AI is “the most intelligent AI assistant that you can freely use.” Stay tuned for the upcoming rollout and experience the next level of engagement on Instagram with custom AI chatbots.