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Science/Technology › AI Data Centres V Public Power Grids: Who Should Pay For The Electricity Needed? by Technalia(op): 11:53am On Oct 19
AI is growing fast, but there is a problem that many people may not think about when using ChatGPT, generating images, or watching AI-powered videos: all that AI needs electricity, and lots of it.

Behind every AI service are data centres filled with powerful servers, networking equipment, and cooling systems. As technology companies race to build bigger AI infrastructure, electricity demand is becoming a serious challenge.

And now, the big question is: who should pay for the extra power infrastructure?

Why AI data centres need so much electricity

Traditional data centres already consume substantial amounts of power, but AI workloads can make the demand even more intense. Training and running advanced AI models requires specialised chips operating across large server clusters. Those machines also generate heat, so cooling systems need electricity too.

When a company wants to build a hyperscale data centre, the existing electricity network may not have enough capacity to serve it. Utilities may need to upgrade substations, transformers, transmission lines, or other infrastructure before the facility can operate at full capacity.

These upgrades cost money, and they raise questions about who should carry the bill.

Governments and regulators are stepping in

In the United States, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission announced new proceedings in June 2026 requiring six regional grid operators to justify or reform rules for connecting large electricity users, including data centres.

One key concern is protecting ordinary electricity customers. If infrastructure is built for a major data centre that later delays or abandons its plans, households should not automatically be left paying for unused capacity.

The issue is not simply about stopping AI development. It is about making sure the costs and risks are shared fairly.

Microsoft's UK project shows that power is also a bottleneck

The challenge is not limited to America. On October 18, 2026, reports said Microsoft had withdrawn from a major data-centre project in Loughton, Essex, after the project faced significant electricity connection delays. Reports indicated that sufficient grid power might not be available until the 2030s.

That is a serious problem for an industry trying to expand AI infrastructure quickly. Having the money, land, and computing equipment is not enough if the electricity cannot be delivered on time.

So, should tech companies pay for grid upgrades?

There are arguments on both sides.

Technology companies can argue that data centres bring investment, jobs, computing capacity, and economic opportunities. They also need reliable electricity to deliver the services businesses and consumers increasingly depend on.

On the other hand, residents should not have to shoulder unreasonable costs or face affordability problems because a private company needs more electricity for its AI operations.

A reasonable approach would require companies to make credible power commitments, contribute fairly to infrastructure built specifically for them, and work with utilities on long-term capacity planning. Regulators must also distinguish dedicated connection costs from broader grid investments that benefit many customers.

What does this mean for the technology industry?

AI is not just a software story anymore. Its future depends on physical infrastructure: electricity generation, transmission networks, cooling systems, chips, and data centres.

For anyone learning about software, AI, cloud computing, or cybersecurity, this is a reminder that digital products depend on real-world systems. At [TEKHUB Nigeria](https://www.tekhub.ng/), technology learning and practical digital skills provide a starting point for exploring the wider ecosystem behind today's digital services.

Let's discuss: Should AI companies pay the full cost of grid upgrades required specifically for their data centres, or should some of those costs be shared with the wider electricity network? And how can regulators prevent ordinary consumers from being unfairly charged?

Science/Technology › Apple Launches Homeview: A New Smart Home Display Powered By Siri AI by Technalia(op): 12:55pm On Oct 15
Apple is entering the smart display market with a new device called Apple HomeView, and it looks like the company wants to make controlling your home as easy as talking to your phone.

Announced on October 13, 2026, HomeView is a 7-inch smart display designed to serve as a central hub for home management, communication, entertainment, and Apple's upgraded Siri AI.

What can Apple HomeView do?

HomeView is more than a screen sitting on your table. According to Apple, users can interact with it by touch or voice to control compatible smart home devices, including lights, thermostats, locks, blinds, and security cameras.

Here are some of its key features:

- Siri AI integration: Ask questions and use voice commands to manage supported devices.
- Personalized experience: The device can recognize up to six people and provide individual home screens.
- Home monitoring: View compatible camera feeds and monitor activity around the home.
- Communication: Make FaceTime calls, access messages, and keep up with reminders and calendars.
- Flexible placement: It can sit on a table or be mounted on a wall.

Apple says HomeView is designed with privacy and security in mind, with features intended to keep personal information protected.

Can it compete with Amazon and Google?

That is the big question.

Amazon already has its Echo Show range, while Google offers the Nest Hub. Both companies have spent years building smart home ecosystems, so Apple will need to show that its combination of Siri AI, personalized experiences, and integration with Apple devices offers something compelling.

HomeView's biggest appeal may be its ability to make the connected home feel more personal. Instead of simply responding to generic voice commands, the device is designed to provide different experiences for different members of a household.

However, the real test will be how well the AI works in everyday situations, how many devices it supports, and whether its features justify the price.

Price and availability

Apple lists the HomeView at $299 in the United States, with pre-orders beginning on October 13 and availability scheduled for November 13, 2026, in selected markets. Availability and pricing may vary by country.

For people following developments in AI, smart devices, and software engineering, HomeView is another example of how artificial intelligence is moving beyond phones and computers into everyday environments.

At [TEKHUB Nigeria](https://www.tekhub.ng/), where technology education and practical digital skills are part of the conversation, products like this offer an interesting look at how AI, hardware, and connected systems are coming together.

What do you think? Would you prefer Apple's HomeView, Amazon's Echo Show, or Google's Nest Hub for your home?

Science/Technology › Hackers Target French Supermarket Fridges — What This Means For Cybersecurity by Technalia(op): 12:38pm On Oct 14
Imagine going to work in the morning and discovering that your supermarket's refrigerators have become so hot that food has spoiled and equipment has been damaged. Now imagine finding out that a cyberattack caused it.

That is what happened in France, where hackers targeted connected refrigeration systems in hundreds of supermarket locations. Some temperatures reportedly reached 50°C, causing significant food losses and fires.

At almost the same time, British fashion retailers Phase Eight, Hobbs and Whistles were dealing with a separate cybersecurity incident that affected their websites and IT systems.

These incidents are a reminder that cyberattacks can cause damage far beyond a website going offline.

How can hackers control a refrigerator?

Modern businesses increasingly use connected devices to monitor and control equipment. Supermarket refrigeration systems, for example, may use digital controllers and software to manage temperatures, defrosting cycles and other functions.

These systems make operations easier to monitor, but they also introduce cybersecurity risks.

If attackers gain unauthorised access to a poorly secured or outdated control system, they may be able to change settings that affect the physical equipment.

In the French incident, connected refrigeration systems were manipulated, causing temperatures to rise dramatically. The resulting damage included spoiled goods and fires.

The lesson is not that every smart device is unsafe. It is that any connected system capable of affecting real-world operations must be properly secured.

The fashion retailers faced a different problem

Separately, TFG London, the company behind Phase Eight, Hobbs and Whistles, reported a cyber incident affecting some of its IT systems and online services.

Online orders were paused as a precaution while the company investigated the incident. The retailer also said it was assessing whether customer information had been compromised.

This case highlights another common business risk: a cyberattack can interrupt sales, affect customer confidence and create uncertainty about personal data.

The two incidents involved different systems and businesses. There is no confirmed evidence that they were connected.

Why should Nigerian businesses care?

Cybersecurity is relevant to far more than banks and large technology companies.

A supermarket may depend on connected refrigeration equipment. A hotel may rely on digital access controls. A factory may use automated machinery. A small business may depend on its website, payment systems and customer database.

If these systems are compromised, the consequences can include financial losses, disrupted services, damaged equipment and harm to customers.

Businesses should take practical steps such as:

- Updating software and firmware regularly.
- Replacing or isolating unsupported equipment.
- Changing default passwords and using strong authentication.
- Restricting remote access to authorised users.
- Separating operational equipment from ordinary office networks.
- Monitoring systems for unusual activity.
- Maintaining backups and a tested incident-response plan.

Security should be considered when purchasing and installing technology, not only after something goes wrong.

What does this mean for people learning tech?

As more businesses connect their operations to digital systems, cybersecurity skills become increasingly important. Professionals need to understand networks, access control, software vulnerabilities, incident response and the relationship between digital systems and physical equipment.

For aspiring technology professionals in Nigeria, [TEKHUB](https://www.tekhub.ng/) is one place to explore practical technology learning pathways and build foundational digital skills.

Final thoughts

The French supermarket incident shows how a cyberattack can affect something as ordinary as keeping food cold. The separate fashion-retail incident demonstrates how quickly digital disruption can affect online business operations.

Cybersecurity is not simply an IT department's responsibility. It is part of protecting business continuity, customer trust and the systems people depend on every day.

If a business near you depends on connected devices, do you think most owners take cybersecurity seriously enough?

Science/Technology › Microsoft, Nvidia And Samsung Are Making Devices More Powerful For AI by Technalia(op): 1:50pm On Oct 13
Technology companies are no longer competing only on how slim a laptop is, how clear a tablet's screen looks, or how long its battery lasts. Increasingly, they are competing on how much AI work a device can handle.

Recent hardware announcements from Microsoft, Nvidia, Samsung and MediaTek show how this shift is taking shape.

Microsoft has introduced the Surface Laptop Ultra, designed around Nvidia's RTX Spark platform for demanding AI and creative workloads. Meanwhile, Samsung has launched its Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S12+, powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 9500 processor.

These devices are part of a wider move towards hardware that can handle more advanced computing and AI tasks.

What is special about the Surface Laptop Ultra?

The Surface Laptop Ultra is designed for people who need substantial computing power, including developers, creators and AI builders.

Its Nvidia RTX Spark platform combines CPU and GPU capabilities with unified memory, allowing supported AI models and demanding workloads to run locally on the device.

Why does that matter?

Today, many AI tools depend on cloud servers. When you send a request to an online AI service, the processing often happens in a remote data centre before the result returns to your device.

With capable local hardware, some AI tasks can run directly on the computer. This may reduce reliance on cloud connectivity, improve responsiveness and give users more control over where certain data is processed.

However, local processing does not eliminate the need for cloud services. Larger workloads may still require remote computing resources.

What about Samsung's new tablets?

Samsung's Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and S12+ focus on combining portable hardware with powerful performance.

Both use MediaTek's Dimensity 9500, which includes processing capabilities for AI, graphics and demanding applications.

This could be useful for people who edit content, multitask, take notes, use AI assistants or work with creative applications while on the move.

The larger Ultra model is especially suited to users who prefer a spacious screen for productivity and creative work, while the S12+ offers a slightly smaller alternative.

Does this mean every device will become an AI computer?

Not necessarily.

Hardware is only one part of the equation. The software must be designed to take advantage of the available processors, and developers must consider memory, power consumption, heat management and performance.

A device with powerful AI hardware will not automatically make every application faster or every AI feature better. The results depend on the software, model and task involved.

Price is another consideration. High-performance devices can be expensive, making them inaccessible to many students and early-career professionals.

What does this mean for aspiring tech professionals?

As devices become more capable, opportunities will grow around AI application development, software engineering, cloud computing, cybersecurity and hardware optimisation.

Developers will need to understand how applications interact with device resources and when a task should run locally or in the cloud.

For learners in Nigeria, building a solid foundation in technology is a practical first step. [TEKHUB](https://www.tekhub.ng/) offers technology learning pathways for people looking to develop practical digital skills and understand the industry's direction.

Final thoughts

Microsoft, Nvidia, Samsung and MediaTek are contributing to a future where AI capabilities are becoming an increasingly important part of everyday computing.

The real competition is not simply about having the most powerful device. It is about making technology useful, efficient and accessible to the people who need it.

Would you prefer a laptop that can run powerful AI models locally, or a tablet that combines AI capabilities with portability?

Science/Technology › Amazon May Buy AI Startup Decart For $7 Billion by Technalia(op): 12:03pm On Oct 12
The AI industry is moving fast, and the latest reported deal involving Amazon shows just how valuable AI technology has become.

Amazon is reportedly in talks to acquire Decart, an artificial intelligence startup, in a deal worth around **$7 billion**. The discussions were reported by The Wall Street Journal and Reuters, but no final agreement has been announced.

So, what exactly does Decart do, and why would a company like Amazon be interested in spending billions on it?

## What is Decart?

Decart is an AI startup working on generative video and technology that helps AI systems run more efficiently across different computer chips.

One of its models, Lucy, supports real-time video editing. Imagine being able to transform video as it is happening rather than waiting for a lengthy rendering process. That kind of capability could be useful in content creation, interactive media and other applications.

The company has also developed Oasis, which can generate simulated environments. Technologies like these could have applications in gaming, robotics research and the testing of autonomous systems.

But video generation is only part of the story.

Decart also develops software that helps AI workloads operate across different types of processors. That matters because companies are looking for ways to get more value from the expensive computing hardware used to power AI.

## Why would Amazon want to buy it?

Amazon is investing heavily in artificial intelligence through Amazon Web Services (AWS), its cloud-computing business, and its own AI chips, including Trainium.

Nvidia currently dominates much of the market for specialised AI processors. However, companies such as Amazon have been developing their own chips to offer more options and improve the economics of AI computing.

Owning software that makes AI workloads easier to run across different chips could help Amazon make its infrastructure more attractive to developers and businesses.

In other words, the potential acquisition may be about much more than making videos with AI. It could also be about controlling important technology beneath the applications people use.

## Is $7 billion too much for an AI startup?

That is where things get interesting.

A deal of this size raises questions about how investors value AI companies. Are they paying for current revenue, future growth, specialised technology, engineering talent, or the strategic advantage of keeping a competitor from acquiring the company?

The answer may involve all of these factors.

Still, a high valuation does not automatically mean a successful business. The technology must deliver real value, attract customers and justify the cost of developing and operating it.

## What does this mean for aspiring tech professionals?

The growing competition for AI startups shows that the technology industry needs more than people who know how to use AI tools. It also needs software developers, cloud engineers, data specialists, AI researchers and cybersecurity professionals who understand how these systems work.

For young Nigerians interested in technology, keeping up with developments like this can help identify where the industry is heading. Platforms such as [TEKHUB](https://www.tekhub.ng/) provide opportunities to explore practical technology skills and build a foundation for participating in the digital economy.

## Final thoughts

Amazon's reported interest in Decart is another sign that AI competition is expanding beyond chatbots. Generative video, AI infrastructure and software that improves computing efficiency are becoming important strategic assets.

The potential $7 billion deal remains unconfirmed, but the bigger trend is clear: major technology companies are willing to invest heavily in capabilities they believe will shape the next stage of AI.

**What do you think? Is a $7 billion price tag justified for an AI startup, or has the AI industry started overvaluing companies based on future possibilities?**

Science/Technology › Spacex Wants $40B In Nvidia AI Chips. What's Next For Tech? by Technalia(op): 1:39pm On Oct 09
When people talk about Artificial Intelligence, the conversation usually revolves around chatbots, AI-generated pictures, coding assistants and other tools we can use on our phones and computers.

But behind all these applications is something much bigger: the infrastructure that makes AI possible.

Recent reports indicate that SpaceX is seeking about **$40 billion in financing to purchase Nvidia AI chips**. The proposed package reportedly includes around $10 billion in bank loans and $30 billion in investment-grade debt, with Apollo Global Management expected to help lead the financing effort.

The deal has not been confirmed as completed, but the reported plan has already raised an important question: just how much computing power will the next generation of AI require?

## Why does SpaceX need so many chips?

AI systems need powerful processors to train models, process information and deliver responses at scale. These processors are commonly installed in large data centres packed with servers.

SpaceX has been expanding beyond rockets and satellite internet into AI computing through its wider business ecosystem, including xAI and its Colossus data-centre operations.

Nvidia's specialised AI processors are important because they help handle the enormous calculations required by modern AI systems.

For a company operating across space technology, connectivity and AI, access to computing capacity could become a major competitive advantage.

## Is AI becoming too expensive?

The reported $40 billion financing plan also highlights the financial risks of the AI boom.

Building AI infrastructure requires more than developing software. Companies need chips, servers, data centres, electricity, cooling systems and reliable networks. These investments can cost billions before the full business returns become clear.

Borrowing money to fund expansion can accelerate growth, but it also creates obligations that must eventually be repaid. Investors will want to know whether the computing capacity generates enough revenue to justify the cost.

That is why this story is not only about Nvidia chips. It is also about the economics of AI.

## What does this mean for people learning technology?

As major companies invest heavily in AI infrastructure, opportunities may emerge across several areas of technology: software development, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data engineering, networking and AI development.

For young Nigerians interested in entering tech, the lesson is to look beyond the latest AI application and understand the systems that power it.

At **TEKHUB**, learners can explore technology pathways and practical skills through [tekhub.ng](https://www.tekhub.ng/), while building a stronger understanding of the digital industry.

## The bigger picture

SpaceX's reported financing plan reflects a wider shift: computing power is becoming a strategic resource for companies competing in AI.

The important question is no longer simply who can build the smartest AI tool. It is also who can afford to build, power and operate the infrastructure behind it.

**What do you think? Is spending billions on AI chips a smart long-term investment, or are tech companies taking on too much financial risk?**

Science/Technology › TSMC Hits $46.7bn On AI Demand, Wolfspeed Gets $1.5bn Boost. by Technalia(op): 1:22pm On Oct 08
The AI boom is no longer just a story about chatbots and software.

There is a huge hardware industry underneath it and two recent developments involving TSMC and Wolfspeed show just how important semiconductor manufacturing has become.

TSMC, the world's largest contract chipmaker, has reported record third-quarter revenue of NT$1.49 trillion, equivalent to about $46.71 billion.

That represents a 50% increase from the same period last year, with strong demand for AI applications helping drive the growth.

At almost the same time, Wolfspeed announced a conditional commitment for up to $1.5 billion in long-term financing from the U.S. Department of War to support domestic production of silicon carbide and other wide-bandgap semiconductor technologies.

So what exactly is going on?

AI needs a lot more than software

Whenever people talk about artificial intelligence, the conversation usually centres around models.

ChatGPT.

AI agents.

Computer vision.

Generative AI.

But none of these systems run on magic.

They require enormous amounts of computing power, and that means chips, advanced manufacturing, data centres, networking equipment and power infrastructure.

TSMC sits at a critical point in this supply chain.

The company manufactures advanced processors for major technology companies, including Nvidia and Apple. Its latest revenue numbers therefore provide another indication of just how strong demand for AI computing infrastructure has become.

Then there is silicon carbide

Wolfspeed's announcement is about a different but equally important part of the semiconductor ecosystem.

Silicon carbide (SiC) is a wide-bandgap semiconductor material used in power electronics.

It is particularly valuable in areas such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, power systems and other applications where efficiency and high-power performance matter.

The proposed financing would support Wolfspeed's domestic silicon-carbide materials and power-device capabilities, as well as other wide-bandgap technologies.

So while TSMC's story is being driven heavily by AI computing demand, Wolfspeed's story is about strengthening semiconductor manufacturing capacity for strategic and power-related applications.

Why should Nigeria care?

Because semiconductors are becoming strategic infrastructure.

Countries are increasingly concerned about where critical chips are designed, manufactured and supplied from.

AI is increasing demand for advanced processors.

Electric vehicles are increasing demand for efficient power electronics.

Data centres require increasingly sophisticated hardware.

Defence systems require specialised semiconductor technologies.

This means semiconductor manufacturing is becoming both an economic and strategic issue.

Nigeria may not currently have a semiconductor manufacturing industry on the scale of Taiwan or the United States, but the lesson is still relevant.

A modern technology ecosystem requires more than people who know how to use technology.

It also needs engineers, researchers, chip designers, embedded-systems developers, AI specialists, cloud engineers and other technical professionals who understand the infrastructure underneath digital products.

That is part of the reason practical technology education matters. At TEKHUB [www.tekhub.ng], for example, learners can develop skills across software development, AI-related disciplines, data, cybersecurity and other areas of technology.

The bigger picture:

TSMC's $46.71 billion quarter and Wolfspeed's potential $1.5 billion financing commitment may look like two separate corporate stories.

They aren't entirely separate.

Both reflect the growing strategic importance of semiconductors.

One is responding to the explosive demand for AI computing.

The other is strengthening the supply chain for silicon carbide and wide-bandgap technologies.

And together, they highlight a simple reality:

The future of AI, energy, mobility and advanced technology depends heavily on the chips underneath them.

Phones › MTN Nigeria Crosses 100 Million Subscribers: What Does This Mean For Nigeria? by Technalia(op): 12:22pm On Sep 30
MTN Nigeria has crossed a major milestone that would have sounded almost unimaginable when GSM services first launched in Nigeria.

The telecom operator recorded 100,859,587 active subscriptions in July 2026, making it the first Nigerian telecom operator to cross the 100-million-subscriber mark. The figure came from the latest subscriber statistics released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

Nigeria's entire active mobile subscriber base stood at about 195.11 million at the time, meaning MTN alone accounted for roughly 51.76% of active mobile subscriptions. Airtel had 66.76 million, Globacom 23.63 million and T2 had 3.61 million.

But beyond the headline, there is a bigger question:

What does having 100 million subscribers actually mean for Nigeria's technology ecosystem?

From phone calls to digital infrastructure

Nigeria's telecom industry is no longer just about making calls and sending SMS.

People now depend on mobile networks for:

Online banking
Mobile payments
Social media
Streaming
Remote work
Online learning
E-commerce
Cloud applications
Business communication
Digital services

That means telecom infrastructure has become part of the foundation on which Nigeria's digital economy operates.

And the more people connect, the more infrastructure is required to support them.

100 million subscribers means 100 million potential digital users

Not every subscriber uses mobile data in the same way, of course.

But a network serving more than 100 million active subscriptions has enormous potential reach for digital products and services.

For technology startups, fintech companies, online businesses, developers and digital educators, mobile connectivity determines how easily people can access what they build.

Someone learning coding from an online platform, running a WhatsApp business, making a digital payment or joining a Zoom meeting is ultimately depending on connectivity.

This is one reason the growth of telecoms matters beyond the telecom industry.

But the milestone also creates pressure

More subscribers also mean more traffic.

BusinessDay reports that MTN invested ₦620.5 billion in capital expenditure during the first half of 2026, with investment going into areas including spectrum, fibre backhaul and network infrastructure.

MTN's data business is also becoming increasingly significant. The company reported about 55.7 million active data users in the first half of 2026, while its average monthly data consumption reached 14.8GB per user according to reporting based on the company's results.

So the challenge isn't simply getting people connected.

It is keeping them connected reliably as their digital needs become more demanding.

The technology opportunity

For Nigeria, the 100-million milestone is another indication of how deeply technology has entered everyday life.

But connectivity alone isn't enough.

Nigeria also needs people who can build the websites, applications, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity systems, data platforms and digital products that people will use through these networks.

That is why digital-skills development remains important alongside infrastructure development. Platforms such as TEKHUB[www.tekhub.ng] are part of the wider ecosystem helping people build practical technology skills in areas ranging from software development and cybersecurity to data and digital technologies.

MTN reaching 100 million subscribers is therefore more than a telecom headline.

It is a reminder of the enormous digital audience that already exists in Nigeria.

The next question is:

What are we going to build for them?

Science/Technology › Why Cybersecurity Is Now About More Than Just Finding Hackers.. by Technalia(op): 2:01pm On Sep 29
When most people hear ethical hacking, they probably think about penetration testing, Kali Linux, passwords, vulnerable websites and someone sitting behind a laptop trying to break into a system.

That is certainly part of it.

But cybersecurity is becoming much bigger than simply finding vulnerabilities.

Recent cybersecurity workshops and industry discussions in Nigeria are increasingly putting topics such as data protection, cyber resilience, cloud security, compliance and digital sovereignty alongside traditional cybersecurity practices. For example, a recent Nigeria Computer Society workshop focused on health data protection, digital governance and cyber resilience, including access control, breach prevention, third-party and cloud security risks, and compliance with Nigeria's data protection framework.

At the same time, Nigeria's National Digital Cloud Policy is placing greater attention on how the country stores, processes and governs digital information as cloud infrastructure expands.

So what does this mean for someone learning ethical hacking?

Ethical hacking is only one part of the bigger picture

A security professional may be able to identify a vulnerable application, but that's only the beginning.

The next questions are:

What data could be exposed?
Who has access to that data?
Where is the data stored?
What happens if the system is compromised?
Are cloud permissions configured correctly?
Can the organisation detect and respond to an attack?
Does the organisation meet its regulatory obligations?
Who is responsible when a third-party service is breached?

These questions move cybersecurity from simply “Can I break into this system?” to “Can this organisation protect, govern and recover its digital assets?”

Cloud has changed the security conversation

Businesses are increasingly moving applications, databases and infrastructure into cloud environments.

That creates flexibility, but it also creates new security responsibilities.

A poorly configured cloud storage bucket, excessive user permissions or exposed credentials can become just as serious as a traditional network vulnerability.

That is why modern cybersecurity education increasingly needs to cover areas such as penetration testing, network security, identity and access management, cloud security, incident response and security governance.

And this is where ethical hacking becomes valuable.

Ethical hackers are trained to think like attackers so organisations can identify weaknesses before malicious actors exploit them.

But the objective isn't simply to “hack.”

The objective is to understand risk and strengthen the system.

For anyone looking to develop these skills in Nigeria, programmes such as the Ethical Hacking + Cyber-Security track at TEKHUB [www.tekhub.ng] combine areas such as penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, OWASP, Kali Linux and security operations.

The cybersecurity conversation is getting broader.

And perhaps the biggest lesson from these recent workshops and policy discussions is this:

Securing a digital system isn't only about stopping hackers. It's also about protecting data, controlling access, governing infrastructure and being prepared when something goes wrong.

For Nigerian businesses moving deeper into cloud and digital services, those are becoming business issues, not just IT issues.

What cybersecurity skill do you think Nigerian businesses need to pay more attention to: ethical hacking, cloud security, data protection or incident response?

Business › Nigerian Smes And AI: Why Are So Many Businesses Still Stuck? by Technalia(op): 11:43am On Sep 28
AI has become one of the biggest conversations in business.

Small business owners are using ChatGPT to write captions, generate ideas, analyse information and respond to customers. But there seems to be a difference between using AI occasionally and actually building AI into the way a business operates.

That gap is what a new programme from HP and UpSkill Universe is trying to address.

The two organisations launched the AI Skills for Business Programme in September 2026, with the aim of giving 55,000 SMEs across Nigeria and South Africa access to free, practical AI training. The programme is powered by HP LIFE and delivered by UpSkill Universe.

And one statistic attached to the programme stands out:

Nearly 70% of SMEs are still at the early stages of AI adoption, while only 9% have embedded AI into their day-to-day operations, strategy and decision-making.

Those figures are from a study cited by UpSkill Universe in announcing the programme, so they should be understood in that context rather than as a universal measurement of every SME in Nigeria.

There is a difference between using AI and adopting AI

Think about a small business owner who uses ChatGPT once in a while to write an Instagram caption.

That's AI usage.

Now imagine that same business has AI-assisted systems for:

Customer support
Sales reporting
Marketing
Inventory analysis
Business research
Risk assessment
Internal documentation
Decision-making

That's much closer to AI adoption.

The challenge is that many businesses appear to be somewhere between the two.

They know AI exists.

They have experimented with it.

But they haven't necessarily figured out where it fits into their actual business processes.

What is HP and UpSkill Universe doing about it?

The programme will start with 55,000 SMEs being onboarded onto HP LIFE, where participants are expected to complete at least three AI courses.

From there, 5,000 SMEs will participate in live, 90-minute facilitator-led sessions focused on applying AI to real business challenges.

The programme will then select 50 top-performing SMEs for a more intensive “Build Your Business with AI” bootcamp involving business audits, mentorship and a 90-day action plan.

There is also a focus on youth and women-led businesses, with a target of 40% participation.

Why training is becoming important

The problem with AI isn't necessarily that businesses don't know about it anymore.

Most business owners have heard about AI.

The harder question is:

“What exactly should I use it for in my business?”

A fashion business might use AI differently from a logistics company.

A restaurant might use it differently from a construction company.

A technology company might use AI for coding assistance, while a small retailer might use it for customer analysis or marketing.

That is why practical training matters.

Nigeria's SMEs don't necessarily need more AI hype

They need examples.

Show a business owner how AI can reduce two hours of repetitive work to 30 minutes.

Show a retailer how to analyse customer patterns.

Show a service provider how to automate part of customer communication.

Show a small company how to turn its existing data into useful business insights.

That's where AI starts becoming a business tool rather than just another technology trend.

For Nigerians looking to build the skills needed to work with technology and AI, the wider training ecosystem is also expanding. TEKHUB's technology training resources are one example of the broader digital-skills landscape developing in Nigeria. Visit www.tekhub.ng for more info.

The interesting part of this programme

The programme isn't only measuring how many people attend training.

According to UpSkill Universe, every SME participating in the initial stage will be expected to identify an AI tool to test in its business within 30 days, while the bootcamp participants will develop 90-day implementation plans.

That focus on application is important.

Because the real question isn't:

“How many Nigerian businesses have tried AI?”

It is:

“How many are actually using it to solve business problems?”

And that may be where the next phase of AI adoption in Nigeria gets interesting.

#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #SMEs #DigitalSkillsNigeria #NigeriaTech

Crime › Six Nigerians Extradited From South Africa To The US Over Alleged Cyber Crime by Technalia(op): 1:50pm On Sep 25
A recent international cybercrime case involving six Nigerian nationals has put romance scams, cyberfraud and cross-border law enforcement back in the spotlight.

On September 11, 2026, South African authorities handed six Nigerian nationals over to US authorities for extradition to the United States. South Africa's Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, said the men were allegedly linked to the organised criminal network and were wanted in the US on wire-fraud and money-laundering charges.

The case is particularly notable because the alleged fraud was not simply about stealing someone's password or hacking into a bank account.

It reportedly involved something much more personal:

online relationships.

How did the alleged scam work?

According to the US Department of Justice, the defendants are accused of participating in internet-fraud schemes from Cape Town between 2011 and 2021.

The alleged schemes included romance scams, advance-fee fraud and business email compromise.

In the romance scams, prosecutors allege that members of the group used social media and online dating platforms to establish relationships with victims in the United States.

Some allegedly used false identities and stories involving travel to South Africa, construction work and supposed emergencies that required victims to send money or valuable items.

South African authorities said the six allegedly targeted more than 100 women in the US and that the reported losses exceeded R100 million, equivalent to more than $6 million at the exchange rate reported by Reuters. Some alleged victims were pensioners and businesspeople.

They were arrested in 2021.

This isn't a case where the six suspects were arrested and extradited within a few days.

South African authorities said they were arrested in South Africa in 2021 following a major operation.

The extradition process subsequently led to their transfer to US custody on September 11, 2026.

The handover involved the Hawks, INTERPOL South Africa, the FBI and the US Secret Service.

Why does this matter for cybersecurity?

One interesting aspect of the case is that the alleged criminals didn't necessarily need sophisticated malware or a highly technical hacking operation to target their victims.

Instead, the alleged schemes relied heavily on social engineering.

Social engineering is basically the use of psychological manipulation to persuade someone to reveal information, transfer money, click something, or take another action.

A romance scam is an example.

The criminal creates a believable identity, establishes trust and eventually introduces a financial request.

That makes cybersecurity more than just a programming or technical problem.

It also involves understanding human behaviour, identity verification, digital communication and fraud prevention.

Cross-border cybercrime requires cross-border cooperation

The case also demonstrates how complicated cyber-enabled financial crime can become when people, victims, money and digital infrastructure are spread across different countries.

The alleged activity involved people operating in South Africa, victims in the United States and Nigerian nationals, while investigators from several international agencies became involved.

The US Department of Justice credited the FBI, Secret Service, South African authorities and INTERPOL with supporting the investigation and extradition.

And there's an important legal distinction

The allegations should not be treated as convictions.

The US Department of Justice explicitly states that the charges are accusations and that the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

That distinction is especially important when discussing cybercrime cases involving identifiable individuals.

What can ordinary internet users learn from this?

You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to protect yourself from romance scams.

Be cautious when an online relationship quickly turns into:

Requests for money
Emergency financial stories
Requests for gift cards or cryptocurrency
Requests to receive or transfer money
Investment opportunities introduced by an online romantic partner
Pressure to keep the relationship secret
Refusal to meet or verify identity

A convincing online identity is still only an online identity until independently verified.

As Nigeria continues to develop its cybersecurity and digital-skills ecosystem, understanding these threats is becoming increasingly important. Organisations such as TEKHUB are also contributing to technology education and skills development in Nigeria through programmes and resources available at http://www.tekhub.ng.

The South Africa-US case is therefore bigger than one extradition.

It shows how online fraud can cross borders and why fighting it increasingly requires international cooperation, digital awareness and cybersecurity skills.

Education › Ncc’s New Zero-rated Education Initiative: Does It Mean Free Data For Courses? by Technalia(op): 12:55pm On Sep 24
Nigeria is taking another step toward making online learning more accessible, and this time the issue being tackled is one almost every Nigerian learner understands: data cost.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, has launched the Zero-Rated Data Access to Educational Platforms and Content Initiative.

But there is already an important question around the announcement:

Does this mean Nigerians can now take online courses without paying for data?

The short answer is: not every online course or educational website will automatically become free.

So, what exactly is zero-rated?

Zero-rating means that when you access an approved website or platform, the data used for that particular access is not deducted from your normal data balance.

Under the new programme, eligible users will initially receive up to 100MB of educational data per day for accessing designated educational platforms.

The programme is scheduled to begin on October 1, 2026. The initial target includes students in public senior secondary schools and public tertiary institutions.

That distinction is important.

It does not mean:

“You now have free internet for anything educational.”

Instead, it means:

“You can access participating and approved educational platforms without the data used for that access being deducted from your regular balance.”

What platforms qualify?

The NCC says the programme will cover approved platforms such as:

Learning Management Systems (LMS)
Digital libraries
Educational repositories
Teacher-development platforms
Technical and vocational training platforms

The NCC and Federal Ministry of Education will jointly approve and whitelist participating platforms. More platforms can be added as the programme develops.

So if you're taking a course on a random international learning website, you shouldn't assume the course will automatically be covered.

The key word is approved.

What about tech courses?

This is where things get interesting.

The framework specifically mentions technical and vocational training platforms, which means digital skills and technical education can potentially form part of the programme.

That could be significant for Nigerians learning areas such as software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, digital skills and other technology-related fields.

But again, the platform itself has to be approved and included in the programme.

For someone exploring digital skills or technology training, resources from organisations such as TEKHUB and other Nigerian training providers are worth watching as the programme's approved-platform ecosystem develops. TEKHUB, for example, provides technology training and digital-skills programmes through its platform at http://www.tekhub.ng.

Why 100MB?

The NCC says the initial 100MB daily cap is partly intended to keep the programme sustainable while usage patterns are evaluated.

The Commission estimates that 100MB can support different amounts of learning depending on what you're doing. Reading text and PDFs generally uses much less data than streaming video, for example.

So a learner reading course materials may get considerably more study time from 100MB than someone watching high-resolution video lectures.

This isn't unlimited free internet

This may be the biggest thing Nigerians need to understand.

The initiative is not an unlimited free-data programme.

It is targeted at educational access, and the zero-rating applies to approved educational websites and platforms.

If you leave an approved learning platform and start watching YouTube entertainment videos, scrolling Instagram or browsing unrelated websites, that isn't what the zero-rated allowance is designed to cover.

What could this change?

The bigger issue isn't really the 100MB itself.

It's what happens when the cost of connectivity stops being the first thing a student has to think about before opening a learning platform.

Nigeria has millions of young people interested in acquiring digital skills, but having a smartphone or computer doesn't automatically mean having affordable, reliable access to learning resources.

If properly implemented, the initiative could make it easier for students to access digital libraries, course materials, vocational resources and other educational content.

It will also be interesting to see which private and public learning platforms eventually make it onto the approved list.

So, will online courses become free?

Not all of them.

The current programme is about data-free access to approved educational platforms, not free access to every online course on the internet.

And that distinction could make a huge difference in how Nigerians understand the announcement.

#CyberSecurityNigeria #DigitalSkillsNigeria #NITDA #NCC

Science/Technology › What Does Compute Power Actually Mean, And Why Are People Calling It The New Oil by Technalia(op): 2:19pm On Sep 23
There is a phrase that keeps appearing in conversations about AI, cloud computing and digital infrastructure:

“Compute is the new oil.”

But what exactly does that mean?

If you are not deeply involved in technology, “compute power” can sound like another complicated tech buzzword.

It really isn't.

So, What Is Compute Power?

In simple terms, compute power is the amount of computing capacity available to process tasks.

Every time you:

Generate an AI image
Ask ChatGPT a question
Train an AI model
Analyse millions of records
Stream a video
Run a large website
Process a bank transaction
Simulate a scientific problem

Computers somewhere are doing the work.

That work requires processors, memory, storage, networking, electricity and cooling.

For ordinary applications, a regular computer may provide enough computing power.

But modern AI is different.

Training and running large AI models can require thousands of specialised processors, particularly GPUs, operating inside data centres.

So when people talk about a country's compute capacity, they are essentially talking about how much computing infrastructure that country can access and operate.

Why Compare Compute to Oil?

The comparison is a metaphor, not a literal equivalence.

Oil powered much of the industrial economy because it was an essential input for transportation, manufacturing and energy.

Compute is becoming an increasingly important input for the digital economy.

AI companies need it.

Banks need it.

Cloud providers need it.

Research institutions need it.

Healthcare applications need it.

Governments need it.

Businesses building AI-powered products need it.

The more computationally demanding technology becomes, the more access to reliable compute matters.

The World Economic Forum recently described the AI infrastructure race as increasingly becoming a competition for access to electricity and data-centre capacity.

NVIDIA has also described compute infrastructure as productive infrastructure that can generate revenue as organisations use it to build and operate AI applications.

Why Should Nigeria Care?

This is where the conversation becomes particularly important.

Nigeria can have brilliant AI researchers and software developers, but if they have to rely entirely on expensive or distant foreign infrastructure to train and run their systems, there is still an infrastructure gap.

Nigeria's own National AI Strategy identified the need for affordable, localised AI infrastructure and compute capacity.

The strategy specifically proposes high-performance computing resources that researchers, startups and businesses can access, while also seeking to reduce dependence on foreign technology.

The Federal Government has also moved further in this direction.

Its National Digital Cloud Policy, unveiled in August 2026, explicitly identifies AI compute capacity as part of the infrastructure Nigeria needs to attract investment and develop its digital economy.

Nigeria Has Already Started Thinking About Compute

This isn't a completely new conversation.

In 2024, the Federal Government announced a computing infrastructure pilot involving Galaxy Backbone and 21st Century Technologies, with the stated aim of making compute available to Nigerian researchers, startups and government entities working on AI projects of national interest.

The same announcement discussed a pilot investment of more than $2 million in GPUs.

That tells us something important:

Compute is becoming infrastructure.

Just like roads, electricity and telecommunications infrastructure affect what businesses can build, computing infrastructure increasingly affects what digital businesses and researchers can develop.

But Compute Isn't Just About Having GPUs

This is another important point.

You cannot simply buy a warehouse full of GPUs and declare that you have solved the problem.

AI infrastructure also requires:

Electricity.

Cooling.

Data centres.

High-speed networks.

Storage.

Cybersecurity.

Skilled engineers.

Cloud platforms.

Maintenance.

The World Economic Forum notes that AI data centres have significant power and cooling requirements.

So the compute conversation is actually a conversation about an entire infrastructure ecosystem.

What Happens If Nigeria Doesn't Build Enough?

Nigerian companies can still use foreign cloud platforms, of course.

Cloud computing has made it possible for startups to rent computing resources without owning their own data centres.

But relying heavily on infrastructure located elsewhere can create questions around cost, availability, strategic control, data governance and long-term digital sovereignty.

This is part of why NITDA has described computing power and digital infrastructure as important to Nigeria's ability to determine its own digital future.

It is also why the Federal Government's current cloud policy focuses on attracting investment into Nigerian cloud and data-centre infrastructure rather than simply telling organisations to stop using foreign technology.

And There Is a Human Side to Compute

Infrastructure without people doesn't accomplish much.

Nigeria needs people who can actually build and operate what sits on top of that infrastructure.

That means:

AI engineers
Cloud engineers
Data scientists
Software developers
Cybersecurity professionals
DevOps engineers
Data-centre specialists
Machine-learning researchers

This is where technology education becomes important.

At organisations such as TEKHUB, practical technology education can help develop some of the technical skills required to participate in this growing digital infrastructure ecosystem. You can explore more at www.tekhub.ng.

So, Is Compute Really the “New Oil”?

It is better understood as a metaphor for strategic importance.

Compute isn't a natural resource that Nigeria can simply extract from the ground.

But access to computing capacity can increasingly determine who can develop AI, run large digital services, conduct advanced research and compete in the technology economy.

And that leads to a much more useful question than whether compute is literally the new oil:

Can Nigeria build enough of the computing infrastructure it will need to become a producer of AI and digital technology rather than primarily a consumer?

That is where the real conversation begins.

Science/Technology › Why Are Nigerian Tech Companies Still Afraid Of Gaming? by Technalia(op): 1:06pm On Sep 22
Nigeria has built a reputation for producing fintech startups, payment platforms, e-commerce businesses, logistics companies and increasingly, AI and deep-tech ventures.

But there is one part of the technology industry that still doesn't receive nearly enough attention:

Gaming.

And the question is becoming harder to ignore:

Why are Nigerian tech companies still so cautious about gaming?

This is not because Nigerians don't play games.

Quite the opposite.

Gaming is already deeply embedded in Nigerian culture. From football games and mobile games to esports, console communities and PC gaming, there is clearly an audience.

The problem is that playing games and building a sustainable game industry are two very different things.

Nigeria Has the Players

A September 2026 report by Analytics for Africa estimates that Nigerians spend approximately ₦41.3 billion annually on game consoles, accessories and physical games.

But there is an uncomfortable part of that number.

The study found that essentially all of the consoles, accessories and physical games covered in its marketplace research were imported, meaning much of that consumer spending does not flow back to Nigerian game developers.

That tells us something important.

Nigeria has a market.

What Nigeria still needs is a stronger local production ecosystem.

The Industry Is Not Starting From Zero

There are already companies trying to change this.

Lagos-based Maliyo Games, for example, has built mobile games aimed at African and global audiences and has worked on projects including Disney Iwájú: Rising Chef. The company also runs initiatives aimed at developing Africa's game-development ecosystem.

Nigeria also recently made its debut at Gamescom 2026 with a "Games from Nigeria" pavilion, bringing Nigerian developers, studios and publishers to one of the world's biggest gaming events.

So the question isn't whether Nigerian gaming talent exists.

It does.

The question is whether the wider technology ecosystem is prepared to support it.

So Why Are Companies Still Cautious?
1. Gaming is often seen as entertainment rather than technology

This may be the biggest perception problem.

When someone says:

"I want to build a fintech company."

People immediately think about payments, financial inclusion and billion-dollar markets.

When someone says:

"I want to build a game."

The response can still be:

"Is that really a business?"

That mindset needs to change.

Modern games require software engineering, 3D modelling, animation, artificial intelligence, networking, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, sound design, product design, storytelling, data analytics and complex monetisation systems.

Gaming is not the absence of technology.

Gaming is an intersection of technology and creativity.

2. Funding is difficult

Game development can require significant upfront investment before a product generates meaningful revenue.

And African studios already operate within a difficult funding environment.

The 2025 Africa Games Industry Report found that only 3% of surveyed African game developers had received government funding, while access to specialised support programmes remains limited.

This creates a difficult cycle:

Limited funding → small teams → smaller projects → limited market reach → limited revenue → difficulty attracting larger investment.

Breaking that cycle requires investors who understand gaming as an industry rather than treating it simply as a hobby.

3. Infrastructure matters

A game studio needs more than talented developers.

It needs reliable electricity, internet connectivity, suitable hardware, storage, cloud services and sometimes expensive GPUs and development equipment.

The African game developer survey identified power and affordable high-speed internet as major infrastructure requirements.

For esports, the problem becomes even more obvious.

If players cannot reliably access low-latency servers, consistent electricity or affordable high-speed internet, competitive gaming becomes significantly harder.

4. There isn't enough specialised training

Nigeria has plenty of coding bootcamps.

But how many specifically teach:

Game development
Game design
Unity
Unreal Engine
3D modelling
Character design
Game animation
Game audio
Interactive storytelling
Game monetisation
Esports management

That's an ecosystem gap.

And it presents an opportunity for Nigerian technology academies to expand beyond the traditional "learn web development and get a remote job" model.

Technology education providers such as TEKHUB can play a role here by exposing learners to a broader technology ecosystem and helping young people understand that software skills can be applied to industries beyond fintech and conventional web development.

You can explore TEKHUB's technology ecosystem at www.tekhub.ng.

What Nigerian Tech Companies Could Do Differently

Gaming doesn't necessarily have to start with a ₦500 million studio.

Companies could begin with:

Small mobile games.

Educational games.

African mythology and storytelling.

Local multiplayer experiences.

Gamification products for businesses.

Esports platforms.

Game development tools.

Animation and interactive media.

Gaming communities and infrastructure.

The goal should be to build sustainable businesses rather than simply producing games because they look cool.

And There Is a Bigger Opportunity

Nigeria has something many international studios cannot manufacture:

Nigerian culture.

Our languages.

Our music.

Our mythology.

Our cities.

Our humour.

Our football culture.

Our history.

Our stories.

These can become intellectual property.

The same way African music and film have become global exports, Nigerian games can potentially turn local stories into global interactive experiences.

And Nigeria is beginning to show more ambition in this direction. Industry events such as Lagos Games Week are bringing developers, educators, investors, policymakers and international partners together around the games economy.

The Real Question

Perhaps the question isn't:

"Why are Nigerian tech companies afraid of gaming?"

Maybe it is:

"What would happen if Nigerian technology companies finally took gaming as seriously as fintech?"

The country already has players.

It has developers.

It has designers.

It has storytellers.

It has a massive youth population.

What is still missing is a stronger bridge between those ingredients.

Nigeria doesn't need to become the next Silicon Valley of gaming overnight.

It simply needs to start building.

Because if Nigerians are already spending money on games, the next question should be: why shouldn't more of that value be created here too?

Science/Technology › NDPC Warns Nigerian Content Creators: Stop Filming People Without Consent by Technalia(op): 12:59pm On Sep 21
Content creation is growing rapidly in Nigeria. With a smartphone, microphone, and internet connection, almost anyone can create videos for TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, or other platforms.

However, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has reminded content creators that entertainment and online engagement should not come at the expense of people’s privacy.

In a warning issued on March 13, 2026, the Commission cautioned creators against photographing or recording unsuspecting members of the public and publishing the footage online without consent. The warning referenced concerns about roadside “reality show” content involving people who did not knowingly agree to be filmed.
Voice of Nigeria
+1

Is Filming in a Public Place Automatically Illegal?

This is where creators need to pay attention.

Being in a public space does not automatically mean that someone has agreed to be recorded, identified, or displayed to a large online audience.

The NDPC stated that processing people’s images in such circumstances requires consent unless the creator can justify the activity under another lawful basis for processing.

This means creators should avoid assuming that:

“The person was outside, so I could film them.”

“It was just a joke.”

“The video did not intend to harm anyone.”

“Everyone records people for content.”

The purpose, circumstances, use of the footage, and applicable legal basis matter.

What the NDPC Is Saying

The Commission connected unauthorised filming to citizens’ rights to informational self-determination under Section 37 of the Nigerian Constitution and the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023.

It also directed platforms such as TikTok, X, and Meta to strengthen enforcement of their community guidelines. The NDPC warned that creators may be held accountable for their actions, while platforms that fail to respond appropriately to harm could face sanctions.
Voice of Nigeria
+1

What Should Content Creators Do?

Before filming someone for a skit, interview, prank, street reaction, or reality-style video:

Ask for permission where appropriate.

Explain how the footage will be used.

Avoid humiliating or exposing unsuspecting individuals.

Blur identifiable people who have not consented, where necessary.

Do not assume that going viral makes the content acceptable.

Content creation is a legitimate career, but creators also need digital ethics and data privacy awareness.
As technology education continues to expand in Nigeria, platforms such as TEKHUB can help promote responsible digital skills. Learn more at www.tekhub.ng

What do you think? Should content creators always ask for permission before recording people in public, or are there situations where filming can be justified?

Business › Whatsapp Business Fees In Nigeria: Meta To Begin Charging Per Message - October by Technalia(op): 4:16pm On Sep 18
Nigerian businesses that use the WhatsApp Business Platform need to prepare for a new pricing change from Meta starting October 1, 2026.

Under the reported pricing structure:

Service messages: ₦14 per message

Marketing messages: ₦84 per message

Payment method deadline: September 30, 2026

The changes are expected to affect businesses that use the WhatsApp Business Platform for large-scale customer communication, automation, and integrations.

Is Every WhatsApp Business User Affected?

Not necessarily.

There is an important difference between the regular WhatsApp Business application used by many small businesses and the WhatsApp Business Platform, which allows companies to connect WhatsApp with customer relationship management systems, chatbots, and other business software.

Reports indicate that the new charges are primarily directed at businesses using the platform for large-volume messaging. A business owner replying manually to customers through the regular app should not automatically assume that every message will cost ₦14.

What Does This Mean for Nigerian Businesses?

Businesses that send thousands of messages may need to review their communication budgets.

For example, a business sending 10,000 chargeable service messages at ₦14 per message would incur ₦140,000, while 10,000 marketing messages at ₦84 each would amount to ₦840,000.

Actual costs will depend on the message category, eligibility, delivery, and Meta’s applicable pricing rules.

What Should Businesses Do Before October 1?

Business owners should:

Review their WhatsApp Business Platform account.

Confirm which message categories are chargeable.

Add or verify their payment method before September 30.

Review automated messages and marketing campaigns.

Reduce unnecessary or repetitive messages.

Check Meta’s official pricing documentation for updates.

This is also a reminder that businesses relying heavily on digital platforms should understand the policies and costs behind the tools they use.

As more Nigerian businesses adopt digital marketing, customer support automation, and technology solutions, practical digital knowledge becomes increasingly important. Organisations such as TEKHUB contribute to technology skills development in Nigeria. Learn more at www.tekhub.ng
.

What do you think about Meta’s new WhatsApp Business charges? Will they affect how Nigerian businesses communicate with customers?

Science/Technology › What Is Stopping Nigeria From Building More Of Its Own Technology? by Technalia(op): 1:33pm On Sep 17
Nigeria has no shortage of talented developers, engineers, researchers, designers, and innovators. From fintech platforms to agricultural technology and artificial intelligence, Nigerians continue to demonstrate the ability to create solutions.

Yet, one important question remains:

Why does Nigeria still depend so heavily on imported technology instead of building and scaling more of its own?

The answer is not simply a lack of talent.

1. Limited Funding for Research and Development

Many Nigerian innovators have ideas but struggle to access the funding required to transform those ideas into working products.

Building hardware, testing prototypes, conducting research, hiring technical experts, and achieving commercial scale require significant investment. Without consistent funding, many promising ideas remain at the prototype stage.

2. The Gap Between Research and Industry

Universities and research institutions produce valuable ideas, but these ideas do not always reach the market.

Nigeria needs stronger connections between researchers, technology companies, investors, manufacturers, and government institutions. Initiatives such as the NCDMB Tech Innovation Challenge and the Federal Government’s Energise Commercialisation Now programme are examples of efforts focused on moving research towards commercial products.

3. Infrastructure Challenges

Technology development requires reliable electricity, internet access, computing resources, laboratories, manufacturing facilities, and testing environments.

When these resources are expensive or unreliable, local businesses may find it cheaper and faster to import an existing solution than to develop one locally.

4. Skills Beyond Coding

Creating technology involves more than writing code. It also requires product design, hardware engineering, cybersecurity, research, business development, manufacturing, intellectual property protection, and project management.

This is why technology education must increasingly focus on practical projects and problem-solving, not just certificates.

Training communities such as TEKHUB [www.tekhub.ng] can contribute by helping learners develop practical digital skills and build solutions around real-world needs. You can explore its technology training and innovation ecosystem at www.tekhub.ng
.

5. Weak Support for Local Products

A Nigerian company may develop a useful product but struggle to find customers, procurement opportunities, technical partnerships, or long-term institutional support.

Local innovation cannot survive on encouragement alone. It needs customers, investment, standards, mentorship, and access to markets.

Nigeria Does Not Need to Build Everything From Scratch

Technology independence does not mean refusing all foreign technology. Nigeria can adopt, adapt, and improve existing technologies while gradually developing its own intellectual property and production capacity.

The bigger goal should be to move from being primarily technology consumers to technology creators, owners, and exporters.

What do you think is Nigeria’s biggest obstacle: funding, infrastructure, government policies, education, or lack of support for local products?

Science/Technology › What Is Agentic AI And Why Is Huawei Launching It In Nigeria? by Technalia(op): 3:20pm On Sep 16
Artificial Intelligence is no longer just about asking ChatGPT questions, generating images, or summarising documents. The next stage is Agentic AI: systems that can understand a goal, plan tasks, use digital tools, make decisions within defined limits, and take action with less human supervision.

This is why companies such as Huawei are investing heavily in agentic AI infrastructure and launching related solutions in markets like Nigeria.

What Exactly Is Agentic AI?

Traditional AI usually responds to a prompt. For example:

“Write a report about customer complaints.”

An agentic AI system can go further. It may:

Collect customer complaints from a database.

Categorise the complaints.

Identify recurring problems.

Generate a report.

Send the report to the appropriate department.

Track whether the issue has been resolved.

The system is not simply producing an answer. It is helping to complete a multi-step objective using connected tools and workflows.

However, agentic AI does not mean that the system should have unlimited freedom. Companies still need human oversight, access controls, data protection, monitoring and clear boundaries.

Why Is Huawei Launching Agentic AI in Nigeria?

Huawei reportedly unveiled its Agentic AI Cloud and related AI solutions at the Huawei Nigeria AI and Cloud Summit in Lagos on August 27, 2026. The initiative positions cloud infrastructure as a way to help organisations move beyond storing data towards deploying intelligent systems that can support business operations.

There are several reasons why Nigeria is an important market:

1. Nigerian businesses are looking for greater efficiency

Banks, telecom companies, hospitals, government agencies and other organisations handle large volumes of information and repetitive processes. AI agents could support customer service, fraud monitoring, document processing, IT support and internal operations.

2. Local cloud infrastructure matters

Hosting and processing data closer to users can potentially improve latency, operational control and compliance planning. However, organisations still need to assess where data is stored, who can access it and how the provider handles privacy and security.

3. Huawei is competing in the next phase of cloud computing

Agentic AI is becoming a strategic area for cloud providers. Instead of only offering computing, storage and software services, companies are increasingly providing the infrastructure needed to build, deploy and manage AI-powered agents.

4. Nigeria has a large technology and business ecosystem

Nigeria’s financial technology, telecommunications, public-sector and startup communities create potential use cases for intelligent automation. The real impact, however, will depend on affordability, skills, connectivity, reliable data and responsible implementation.

What Should Nigerians Be Paying Attention To?

Agentic AI could create opportunities for developers, cloud engineers, cybersecurity professionals, data analysts and business process specialists.

At the same time, organisations should not deploy AI agents simply because the technology is popular. They need to define the problem first, evaluate the quality of their data and determine which decisions require human approval.

For Nigerians who want to understand the technologies behind this shift, practical learning platforms such as TEKHUB[www.tekhub.ng] can serve as part of the wider ecosystem developing digital and AI skills.

Final Thoughts:

Huawei’s investment shows that the conversation around AI is moving from chatbots and content generation to systems that can perform tasks and support real-world operations.

The important question is not just whether Nigeria will use agentic AI. It is whether Nigerian businesses, developers and institutions will also gain the knowledge and infrastructure required to build, customise and govern these systems.

Do you think agentic AI will improve productivity in Nigeria, or could it create new security and employment challenges?

Science/Technology › Africa Can't Just Consume AI Forever, At Some Point We Need To Start Building It by Technalia(op): 2:24pm On Sep 15
For years, Africa has largely been positioned as a consumer of technology.

We use the apps.

We subscribe to the platforms.

We license the software.

We adopt AI tools created somewhere else.

But that narrative is beginning to change.

One of the strongest messages coming out of recent conversations around Nigeria's technology ecosystem is that Africa needs to move from simply using technology to producing and owning technology.

This was one of the key themes discussed at the recent Techeconomy Business Series, where technology and business leaders examined what it will take for Nigerian professionals and businesses to remain relevant in an AI-driven economy.

The Four Cs

One point from the discussion particularly stood out.

Kamal Dandina identified four human competencies that will remain important as AI and automation become more common:

Critical thinking.
Creativity.
Communication.
Character.

These may sound like ordinary soft skills, but they could become some of the most valuable skills in the AI era.

AI can generate an answer.

But can you determine whether the answer is actually correct?

AI can create content.

But can you come up with an original idea worth creating in the first place?

AI can automate communication.

But can you understand people, negotiate, collaborate and build trust?

And when technology gives you more power, character determines how you use it.

Africa needs more than AI users

Another important point from the discussion was Africa's position in the global AI economy.

Robert B. Duke challenged the idea that Africa should remain primarily a market for imported AI tools. Instead, African businesses should increasingly develop and own AI technologies that address local problems.

That is a major shift in thinking.

Imagine more African companies building AI solutions specifically for:

Agriculture
Healthcare
Education
Security
Finance
Manufacturing
Local languages
Public services

The opportunity isn't simply to ask, "How can Nigerians use ChatGPT?"

It is also to ask:

"What AI systems can Nigerians build?"

But innovation needs boundaries

There is another side to AI adoption.

Chinwe Azike stressed that organisations cannot deploy AI outside legal and ethical frameworks. Human oversight remains important, particularly where data protection, confidentiality and automated decision-making are involved.

In other words, becoming an AI-producing continent shouldn't mean becoming a careless one.

We need innovation and responsibility.

The talent question

This is where skills development becomes important.

If Nigeria wants to produce more AI products rather than simply consume them, we need people who understand software development, data, cybersecurity, AI and the human side of technology.

Technology-learning ecosystems such as TEKHUB [www.tekhub.ng] are part of that wider effort to help Nigerians build practical technology skills.

The future shouldn't be Africa waiting for the next foreign technology product to arrive.

The future should include Africans building the products themselves.

And perhaps that is one of the biggest questions Nigeria's AI ecosystem needs to answer:

Are we ready to move from being technology users to technology builders?

#GITEXNigeria2026 #NigerianAI #TechInNigeria #AIforGood

Business › TEKHUB Startup Mentee, Osinachi Nwatu, Selected Among Only 2 Southeast Startups by Technalia(op): 9:03am On Sep 15
Big win for Anambra and the Southeast.

Osinachi Nwatu, Founder of MediChat and a TEKHUB startup incubation mentee, has qualified at the regional level to represent Anambra State at the NITDA ONDI iHatch Cohort 5 National Demo Day.

He emerged as one of only two startups selected from the entire Southeast region.

About MediChat:
MediChat is building digital-clinic infrastructure that helps doctors professionally manage, monetize, and maintain continuous patient relationships beyond the hospital.

Osinachi was not a TEKHUB student. He was part of our startup incubation and mentorship ecosystem, where we worked with him to strengthen his idea, refine his startup direction, and prepare for national opportunities.

Why this matters:
This is another strong signal that Anambra and the Southeast are producing tech founders capable of building solutions that compete on the national stage.

Congratulations to Osinachi and the MediChat team.

From Anambra to the national stage. Southeast innovation is rising.

Learn more: www.tekhub.ng

Hashtags:

#TEKHUB #MediChat #AnambraTech #SoutheastTech #StartupIncubation #NITDA #iHatch #HealthTech #NigerianStartups #TechNigeria

Science/Technology › Beyond Fintech: Nigeria’s Terra Industries Raises $18M, Takes Seed Funding To... by Technalia(op): 2:50pm On Sep 14
For years, whenever Nigeria’s technology sector makes international headlines, the conversation usually comes back to fintech.

Payments. Digital banks. Lending. Remittances.

But that narrative is slowly becoming too narrow.

A good example is Terra Industries, an Abuja-based defence-technology company building autonomous security and surveillance systems for critical infrastructure.

The company recently raised an additional $18 million, bringing its total seed funding to $52 million. The latest funding involved existing investors including 8VC, Silent Ventures, Nova Global, Belief Capital and SV Angel, alongside new investors Norleo Space Investments and angel investor Grant Gordon.

So, what exactly is Terra Industries building?

Terra isn't simply another software startup.

The company designs and manufactures autonomous systems intended to monitor and protect critical infrastructure across land, air and maritime environments.

Its portfolio includes autonomous drones, surveillance systems, unmanned ground vehicles and other security technologies. These systems are connected through ArtemisOS, Terra's proprietary software platform for data intelligence, threat detection and autonomous mission planning.

The company says its technology is already deployed around critical assets, including power plants and mines, with approximately $11 billion worth of infrastructure being protected across multiple African countries.

The manufacturing angle is just as interesting

One thing that makes this story different is that Terra isn't positioning itself purely as a software company.

It is building manufacturing capacity in Africa.

Its existing Pax-1 facility is in Abuja, while the company plans to open a much larger Pax-2 facility in Ghana in Q4 2026. Terra says the 34,000-square-foot facility is expected to become Africa's largest drone factory once fully operational, with a targeted capacity of up to 50,000 aerial systems annually by 2028.

That brings the conversation back to something Nigeria and Africa need more of: building technology, not just using it.

A wider opportunity for Nigerian tech talent

Terra's story also shows how wide the technology industry is becoming.

Artificial intelligence, robotics, autonomous systems, embedded systems, software engineering, cybersecurity, data science and advanced manufacturing are increasingly overlapping.

That means the next generation of Nigerian technology professionals may not necessarily be working only on payment platforms or consumer apps.

Some could be building systems that operate drones.

Others could develop AI models, robotics software, computer-vision systems, cybersecurity infrastructure or the data platforms connecting all of them.

For anyone looking to develop practical technology skills in Nigeria, institutions such as TEKHUB NG [www.tekhub.ng] are part of the wider ecosystem helping students and young professionals build foundations in areas such as software development, AI, cybersecurity, data and other emerging technologies.

The bigger picture

Terra's $52 million seed round doesn't mean Nigeria's fintech story is ending.

It simply shows that the Nigerian technology story is becoming much bigger than fintech.

From payments to artificial intelligence, from software to autonomous systems and from digital services to hardware manufacturing, African startups are beginning to tackle increasingly complex problems.

The question now is:

Could defence tech, robotics and autonomous systems become the next major chapter in Nigeria's startup story?

What do you think?

Phones › Apple Enters The Foldable Phone Era With The New Iphone Duo by Technalia(op): 1:58pm On Sep 11
Apple has finally entered the foldable smartphone market.

At its September 9, 2026 event, the company unveiled the iPhone Duo, its first-ever foldable iPhone and one of the biggest changes to the iPhone design in years.

The launch also marked the first major Apple product event under new CEO John Ternus, who took over from Tim Cook on September 1.

And Apple didn't exactly enter the market quietly.

The iPhone Duo starts at $1,999.

So what exactly is the iPhone Duo?

The basic idea is simple.

When folded, the Duo has a 5.4-inch outer display that works like a conventional smartphone.

Open it up and you get a much larger 7.6-inch inner display.

That gives the phone a tablet-like experience while still allowing it to fit into a relatively compact form factor when closed.

Apple is also promoting the device around multitasking.

Users can have multiple apps running across the expanded screen, making the larger display useful for things like work, entertainment and productivity.

The Duo also supports Apple Pencil, which pushes it further into territory traditionally associated with the iPad.

Why is Apple joining the foldable market now?

This is probably the biggest question.

Samsung, Google and other manufacturers have already spent years developing foldable phones.

Apple has taken its time.

Rather than being the first company to introduce a foldable smartphone, Apple appears to be betting on entering the category once the technology is mature enough to fit its expectations for design and usability.

That strategy is very Apple.

The company isn't necessarily trying to invent the category.

It wants to redefine what consumers expect from it.

The price is another story

At $1,999, the iPhone Duo is clearly positioned as a premium device.

The top configuration can reach $3,199, making it significantly more expensive than Apple's conventional iPhone models.

That raises an obvious question:

Who is this phone actually for?

For some people, the appeal will be the novelty.

For others, the larger display could make it useful for productivity, multitasking and content consumption.

But the price means the Duo is unlikely to immediately become a mainstream smartphone for everyone.

The bigger story is Apple itself

The iPhone Duo isn't just another iPhone.

It signals the beginning of a new phase for Apple under John Ternus.

The company is simultaneously dealing with the growing importance of artificial intelligence, changing smartphone economics and increasing competition in premium devices.

The Duo therefore has something to prove.

Apple needs to demonstrate that a foldable iPhone isn't simply a more expensive iPhone.

It needs to show why folding actually makes the device better.

For Nigerians following technology and building careers around software, AI, product design and other digital fields, developments like this are reminders of how quickly the technology landscape keeps changing. Communities and training platforms such as TEKHUB [www.tekhub.ng] are part of the ecosystem helping people build the digital skills needed to participate in that changing landscape.

A new iPhone era?

The original iPhone changed the mobile industry by redefining what a smartphone could be.

The Duo probably won't have that same historical impact.

But it could still mark an important transition.

Apple has finally said:

Foldable iPhones are here.

Now the real question is whether consumers will decide that they actually need one.

What do you think? Is the iPhone Duo worth $1,999, or is Apple asking too much for a foldable phone?

Science/Technology › Meta Introduces Muse: The AI Personal Assistant That Can Do Things For You by Technalia(op): 2:04pm On Sep 10
Artificial intelligence is gradually moving beyond the stage of simply answering questions.

Meta has now introduced Muse, a new personal AI agent designed to do more than chat with users. Instead of simply telling you how to complete a task, Muse is designed to actually carry out many tasks on your behalf.

Meta announced Muse on September 8, 2026, describing it as a step toward what the company calls personal superintelligence.

So, what exactly makes Muse different?

Muse can connect to your apps

One of the interesting parts of Muse is its ability to work with the apps and services people already use.

According to Meta, users can connect services such as email, calendars, Instagram and other applications. Muse can then use these connections to help complete tasks.

For example, instead of simply asking an AI to suggest a travel itinerary, a user could ask Muse to help plan the trip, browse options, fill out forms and continue working on the task.

Muse can also work with information it has learned about the user's preferences.

Meta gives an example of Muse turning a recipe a person saved on Instagram into a grocery list and helping plan a dinner around the user's preferences.

It can keep working in the background

This is another major difference between Muse and a conventional chatbot.

A normal chatbot usually waits for your next prompt.

Muse is designed to continue working after you leave the app. It can monitor things, track goals and return when something changes or when it needs your approval.

That could eventually change how people think about personal productivity.

Imagine telling your AI assistant:

“Help me keep track of flights for this trip.”

Instead of asking you to return every few hours and check prices, an agent could monitor the situation and notify you when something important happens.

But should we trust AI with this much access?

This is where the conversation gets more complicated.

An AI that can read information, interact with websites, access applications and potentially make purchases has much more power than a chatbot that only generates text.

Meta says Muse operates inside a dedicated Muse Secure VM, with a separate security agent called Sentinel monitoring its activities. Users can control which applications Muse connects to and what permissions it receives. Muse is also designed to ask for approval before sensitive actions such as sending emails or making purchases.

Even with those safeguards, the larger question remains:

How much control are people willing to give an AI agent?

That question will become increasingly important as AI moves from generating information to taking actions.

For Nigerians learning AI, software development and cybersecurity, this is also an interesting development to watch. Understanding how AI agents interact with applications, APIs, security systems and user data could become an increasingly valuable technical skill. Platforms such as TEKHUB[www.tekhub.ng] are part of the growing ecosystem helping people develop practical technology skills in areas such as AI, software development and cybersecurity.

The beginning of a new AI era?

Muse represents a significant shift in the AI conversation.

The question is no longer just:

“What can AI tell me?”

It is becoming:

“What can AI do for me?”

And as AI agents become more capable, the biggest challenge may not be making them smarter.

It may be making them trustworthy enough for people to let them act.

Would you give an AI access to your email, calendar and other apps if it could genuinely save you hours every week?

#muse #meta #ai #news #aiassisstant

Science/Technology › SBTS Launches Aegis360ai As Nigerian Businesses Face Growing Cybersecurity Risks by Technalia(op): 2:36pm On Sep 09
Nigeria's digital economy is growing rapidly. Businesses are moving more operations online, adopting cloud services, digital payments, APIs and third-party technology platforms.

But as organisations become more digital, they also become exposed to more cybersecurity and compliance risks.

A vulnerability in an application can become a data-protection problem. A third-party vendor can create a security risk. A poorly configured cloud environment can expose sensitive information.

This is the environment in which SBTS Group has launched Aegis360AI, an AI-native enterprise platform designed to bring cybersecurity, compliance, risk management and threat intelligence together.

What is Aegis360AI?

Aegis360AI is designed to help organisations manage several areas of digital risk from one environment.

The platform focuses on things such as:

Compliance monitoring
Risk management
Threat intelligence
Vendor and third-party risk
Automated evidence collection
Security-control monitoring
Audit readiness
Compliance reporting

It also supports frameworks including ISO 27001, SOC 2, NIST CSF, PCI DSS and Nigerian data-protection requirements.

The idea is fairly straightforward: instead of having cybersecurity, compliance and risk teams working with completely separate information, organisations can have a more connected view of their security posture.

Why continuous compliance matters

One of the biggest problems with compliance is the tendency to treat it as an "audit season" activity.

An audit is approaching, so employees begin looking for policies, screenshots, security records, vendor documents and other evidence.

But an organisation's technology environment doesn't wait for the next audit.

New employees are added.

Cloud configurations change.

Software is deployed.

Vendors are onboarded.

New vulnerabilities appear.

That is why the concept of continuous compliance is becoming increasingly important.

Aegis360AI is designed to automate evidence collection and continuously monitor controls rather than waiting until an audit is around the corner.

Cybersecurity and data protection are becoming connected

For Nigerian organisations, this conversation is particularly important because cybersecurity and data protection increasingly overlap.

If a company loses customer information because of a security incident, it isn't simply a technical problem anymore.

It could also become a data-protection, regulatory, financial and reputational problem.

This is why Nigerian businesses need professionals who understand both technology and responsible data management.

For people looking to build those skills, technology training platforms such as TEKHUB provide opportunities to learn areas including cybersecurity, software development, data science, cloud computing and other technology skills.

AI doesn't mean humans disappear

Another interesting part of Aegis360AI is its human-in-the-loop approach.

AI can automate repetitive work and process large amounts of information, but cybersecurity professionals still need to validate important findings and make decisions.

That distinction is important.

Cybersecurity isn't simply about finding a vulnerability.

Someone still needs to understand the business context, determine the potential impact and decide what should be done.

What this means for Nigerian businesses

The launch of Aegis360AI reflects a larger change in the cybersecurity industry.

Businesses are moving from asking:

"Are we compliant?"

to asking:

"Can we continuously understand and demonstrate our security and compliance posture?"

As Nigeria's digital economy expands, that question will become increasingly important.

The organisations that take cybersecurity, data protection and compliance seriously today will be better positioned to build trust tomorrow.

Do you think Nigerian businesses are prepared for continuous cybersecurity and compliance monitoring, or are most still operating in an audit-driven environment?

#AIinEducation #DataProtectionNigeria #NDPC #GenZAI #Cybersecurity #NigeriaTech

Science/Technology › AI Adoption Is Moving Faster Than Governance - Cybersecurity Expert Warns! by Technalia(op): 3:09pm On Sep 07
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how businesses operate, how governments deliver services and how technology executives make decisions. But as organisations rush to integrate AI into their operations, an important question is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore: Who is responsible for governing these systems?

Cybersecurity and AI governance expert Toluwani Akinniyi has urged business leaders, policymakers and technology executives to make AI governance a priority, warning that the speed at which organisations are adopting AI is outpacing the frameworks required to ensure accountability and responsible use.

The warning comes at a time when AI is moving beyond experimentation. Organisations are increasingly using intelligent systems for customer service, data analysis, recruitment, risk assessment, automation, decision-making and other business-critical functions.

The challenge, however, is not simply whether an organisation can deploy AI.

The bigger question is whether it has the policies, controls and leadership structures necessary to manage what happens when AI makes mistakes, produces biased results, exposes sensitive information or influences an important decision.

AI cannot be allowed to operate without accountability.

One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding artificial intelligence is that responsibility can be transferred to the technology itself.

It cannot.

An AI system may generate a recommendation, identify a risk or make a prediction, but organisations still need people who understand how these systems are being used, what data they rely on and what risks they introduce.

This makes AI governance a leadership issue, not merely an IT issue.

Boards and executives need to understand where AI is being deployed across their organisations, establish acceptable boundaries for its use and ensure that employees understand their responsibilities when interacting with AI systems.

Why Nigerian businesses should pay attention

For Nigerian organisations, responsible AI adoption is particularly important as businesses continue to embrace digital transformation.

Speed is valuable, but speed without governance can create new forms of organisational risk.

A company that introduces an AI system without considering privacy, cybersecurity, transparency, human oversight and accountability could eventually discover that its biggest AI problem is not the technology itself, but the absence of a framework for controlling it.

AI governance therefore needs to become part of broader conversations around cybersecurity, risk management, compliance and digital transformation.

The goal should not be to slow innovation.

It should be to make innovation sustainable.

Building a more responsible technology ecosystem

As Nigeria develops its technology ecosystem and more businesses adopt emerging technologies, institutions that understand both innovation and responsible technology use will become increasingly important.

Technology training organisations such as [TEKHUB](https://www.tekhub.ng) have a role to play in developing a technology workforce that understands not only how to build and deploy digital solutions, but also the responsibility that comes with them.

The future of AI will not be determined solely by how powerful these systems become.

It will also depend on whether organisations build the governance structures necessary to use that power responsibly.

Akinniyi's warning should therefore be viewed as a call to action: AI adoption should not move faster than our ability to govern it.

The organisations that get this balance right will be better positioned to innovate while maintaining trust, accountability and security.

Science/Technology › Nigeria’s Digital Encode Launches DEPAS AI As Cybercrime Gets Smarter by Technalia(op): 2:01pm On Sep 04
Cybercrime is changing.

Attackers are increasingly using artificial intelligence to automate tasks, discover vulnerabilities faster, generate malicious code and scale attacks beyond what traditional human-led methods could achieve.

That raises an important question:

If attackers are using AI, shouldn't cybersecurity teams also be using AI to fight back?

This is where a new development from Nigeria's cybersecurity industry becomes interesting.

Digital Encode launches DEPAS AI

Digital Encode Limited, a Nigerian cybersecurity professional services firm, has announced the launch of DEPAS AI — Digital Encode Penetration Autonomous System, an enterprise penetration-testing platform built around autonomous artificial intelligence.

The platform is designed to move organisations beyond occasional security assessments towards more continuous security validation.

Rather than relying entirely on a single manual penetration tester working through an environment, DEPAS AI uses specialised AI security agents to examine different parts of an organisation's technology infrastructure.

These include:

Web applications
APIs
Mobile applications
Backend systems
Cloud infrastructure
Enterprise networks
Bespoke applications

The platform also uses an agentic coordinator to analyse results and launch additional agents when deeper investigation is required.

One particularly interesting component is its verification layer. Findings are independently reproduced before being presented, with the goal of reducing false positives. DEPAS AI can also connect individual vulnerabilities into potential attack chains, helping security teams understand how seemingly separate weaknesses could combine into a more serious risk.

Why does this matter now?

The timing is important.

IBM's 2026 Cost of a Data Breach research reports a 56% increase in AI-driven attacks, while the global average cost of a data breach reached $4.99 million. IBM also highlights how AI is allowing attackers to accelerate vulnerability discovery, exploitation and other parts of the attack lifecycle.

In other words, organisations are dealing with threats that can move at machine speed.

Traditional penetration testing remains valuable, but businesses increasingly need security processes capable of testing systems more frequently and responding to rapidly changing attack surfaces.

What about Nigerian organisations?

This development is particularly relevant as Nigerian businesses continue to move more services online.

Banks, fintechs, hospitals, schools, government agencies, e-commerce platforms and startups all depend on digital infrastructure.

More digital infrastructure means more potential attack surfaces.

And as organisations collect more personal and financial information, cybersecurity becomes closely connected to data protection and regulatory compliance.
You can learn more about cybersecurity here - www.tekhub.ng

The rise of AI-powered cybersecurity also creates another opportunity: Nigerian cybersecurity professionals and students need to understand both sides of the technology.

It is no longer enough to understand how AI works.

Cybersecurity professionals increasingly need to understand how attackers can use AI — and how defenders can use it responsibly.

The bigger lesson

DEPAS AI is more than another cybersecurity product launch.

It reflects a broader shift from:

Periodic security testing → Continuous security validation

and from:

Human-only security workflows → AI-assisted and autonomous security workflows.

The human cybersecurity professional isn't necessarily becoming irrelevant. Instead, AI can take on repetitive and computationally intensive work while experienced professionals focus on interpreting risk, making decisions and designing stronger security strategies.

For Nigeria's growing technology ecosystem, this is an important direction to watch.

What do you think?

Should Nigerian companies begin adopting AI-powered penetration testing alongside traditional cybersecurity teams, or is human-led penetration testing still the better approach?

#AIinEducation #DataProtectionNigeria #NDPC #GenZAI

Science/Technology › Nigeria Launches Digital Cloud Policy, Targets $750M Investment. by Technalia(op): 11:27am On Sep 03
Nigeria's digital economy may be entering a new phase as the Federal Government unveils a National Digital Cloud Policy aimed at attracting up to $750 million in private investment into the country's cloud and data infrastructure within 24 months.

The policy was unveiled by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria's digital infrastructure and position the country as a regional hub for cloud computing, data hosting and digital services.

The government has set an initial target of $250 million in private investment during the first 12 months, with the ambition of reaching $750 million by the end of the 24-month implementation period.

But what exactly does this mean?

What is Nigeria trying to achieve?

Cloud infrastructure is increasingly becoming the backbone of modern technology.

Artificial intelligence applications, fintech platforms, e-commerce businesses, digital government services, healthcare systems and educational platforms all depend on reliable computing and data infrastructure.

The new policy is built around four major priorities:

Investment and market development
Regional digital services exports
Government cloud transformation
Digital sovereignty and security

The government wants Nigeria to move beyond simply consuming cloud services provided from outside the country and become a place where cloud infrastructure, data centres, computing capacity and digital services can be developed and exported across West Africa.

Government cloud adoption

One interesting aspect of the policy is the plan to aggregate cloud demand across Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

Instead of every government institution independently procuring cloud services, government plans to coordinate demand and create shared cloud services.

A National Digital Marketplace is also expected to support coordinated procurement of cloud and digital infrastructure services.

According to the Federal Government, this could create more predictable demand and encourage private-sector investment in Nigerian infrastructure.

What does this mean for young Nigerians?

The conversation shouldn't only be about data centres and investors.

A bigger cloud ecosystem will require people who can build, deploy, secure and manage technology infrastructure.

That means skills such as:

Cloud computing
DevOps
Cybersecurity
Networking
Software engineering
Data engineering
Artificial intelligence
Database administration
Cloud security

could become increasingly relevant as Nigeria expands its digital infrastructure.
At TEKHUB [www.tekhub.ng], we're preparing Nigerians for exactly these roles.

This is also where initiatives such as AI education and technical training become important. Building infrastructure without developing the people capable of operating it would limit the impact of the investment.

And what about data protection?

The policy also introduces safeguards around the protection, residency and control of defined categories of government and regulated data.

Interestingly, the government says the policy does not impose blanket data-localisation requirements on all commercial data. Sovereignty requirements are focused on defined categories of government and regulated information.

That makes data protection and regulatory compliance an important part of the conversation as Nigeria expands its cloud ecosystem.

The bigger picture:

The Federal Government is implementing the policy through a 24-month roadmap, with the first six months focused on activation, assessments and investment facilitation.

The next phase is expected to include the National Digital Marketplace, priority government migrations and onboarding of providers, followed by broader migration, infrastructure expansion and regional digital-service development.

Nigeria is therefore not simply talking about "moving to the cloud."

It is trying to build a larger ecosystem around cloud infrastructure, AI, data, cybersecurity, investment and digital talent.

The big question now is:

Can Nigeria turn the $750 million target into actual investment, infrastructure and jobs?

What do you think this policy could mean for Nigeria's tech ecosystem?

#AIinEducation #DataProtectionNigeria #NDPC #GenZAI

Certification And Training Adverts › AI Is Now Behind 55% Of Reported Cybercrime In Africa, What Does This Mean? by Technalia(op): 3:08pm On Sep 02
The rise of Artificial Intelligence has brought enormous opportunities to Africa's technology ecosystem.

But there is another side to the story.

AI is increasingly being used by cybercriminals to make attacks faster, more convincing and easier to scale.

According to INTERPOL's African Cyberthreat Assessment Report 2026, artificial intelligence is enabling 55% of reported cybercrimes across Africa. The report, released in August 2026, highlights how cybercriminals are increasingly using AI across different stages of attacks.

This is a major development for a continent experiencing rapid digital transformation.

How are criminals using AI?

AI is changing traditional cybercrime in several ways.

Criminals can use AI to:

Create more convincing phishing messages
Automate social-engineering campaigns
Produce highly convincing business emails
Create synthetic identities
Generate deepfakes and manipulated media
Assist with reconnaissance and other stages of cyberattacks
Scale scams to reach more potential victims

INTERPOL also reports that online scams remained one of the most commonly reported forms of cybercrime in Africa in 2025, with criminals exploiting mobile money platforms, social media and AI.

The financial impact is also becoming increasingly serious. INTERPOL says cybercrime-related losses in Africa more than doubled from $192 million in 2024 to $484 million, driven largely by AI-facilitated scams, credential harvesting and automated social engineering.

What does this mean for Nigeria?

Nigeria's rapidly growing digital economy means cybersecurity cannot be treated as an optional skill.

More businesses are moving their operations online. More Nigerians are using digital banking, fintech platforms, e-commerce services, social media and cloud-based tools.

That creates more opportunities but also more points of attack.

The response therefore cannot be limited to buying security software.

Africa needs more people who understand cybersecurity, ethical hacking, digital forensics, network security, threat detection and responsible AI.

This is where technology education becomes important.

AI vs cybersecurity: the battle is changing

AI isn't necessarily the enemy.

The same technology being used to automate attacks can also help cybersecurity professionals detect suspicious activity, analyse threats and respond more quickly.

The difference is who knows how to use the technology responsibly.

This is why cybersecurity education needs to evolve alongside AI.

At TEKHUB [www.tekhub.ng] in Awka, cybersecurity and ethical hacking are part of its technology training ecosystem, alongside AI, software development, data science and other digital skills. Its cybersecurity track covers areas such as penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, OWASP and network security.

For students, graduates, developers and professionals looking to enter cybersecurity, the lesson from the INTERPOL report is simple:

The cybersecurity workforce needs to grow as quickly as the threat landscape.

And with AI accelerating both sides, the professionals who understand AI + cybersecurity could become increasingly valuable.

Final thought

Africa's digital future is expanding rapidly.

But digital growth without cybersecurity creates vulnerability.

The question is no longer whether AI will influence cybercrime. It already is.

The bigger question is:

Are we developing enough skilled professionals to defend the systems, businesses and people that make up Africa's digital future?

#CyberSecurityAfrica #RoboticsNigeria #AICybercrime #EthicalHacking

Educational Services › Google And AI Are Becoming 24/7 Tutors For Nigerians Learning Tech Skills by Technalia(op): 1:24pm On Sep 01
The way Nigerians learn technology is changing.

A few years ago, someone interested in software development, cybersecurity, data analysis or digital marketing might have needed to attend a physical training centre, buy expensive books or wait for a scheduled class before getting answers to difficult questions.

Today, a laptop or smartphone and an internet connection can provide access to an enormous amount of learning material.

More Nigerians are turning to Google Search, YouTube and AI tools such as ChatGPT as personal learning assistants to understand high-demand technology skills.

Instead of waiting until the next class to ask a question, a learner can search for an explanation, ask an AI tool to simplify a concept, request examples, troubleshoot an error and continue practising immediately.

Why this is becoming important?

Technology changes extremely quickly.

Programming languages, AI tools, cybersecurity practices, cloud platforms and digital marketing strategies are constantly evolving. This makes the ability to learn independently increasingly valuable.

For example, a beginner learning web development can encounter a confusing piece of HTML or JavaScript code and immediately search for an explanation.

A cybersecurity learner can use AI to understand a technical concept in simpler language.

A digital marketer can ask AI to generate ideas, analyse a campaign concept or explain SEO terminology.

A data science learner can use AI as a study companion while working through Python, statistics or data visualisation.

The technology does not replace learning. It changes how learning happens.

But there is a catch

Having access to Google and AI does not automatically make someone skilled.

There is a major difference between searching for an answer and understanding the answer.

AI can explain a programming concept, but the learner still needs to practise.

It can generate code, but the learner needs to understand what the code does.

It can provide an answer to a cybersecurity question, but the learner needs the foundational knowledge to determine whether that answer is accurate.

This is why structured learning remains important.

AI + human mentorship + practice

The most effective approach may not be choosing between self-learning and formal training.

It can be a combination of both.

A learner can attend classes, receive guidance from instructors, work on practical projects and then use Google and AI tools to continue learning outside the classroom.

This is one reason technology hubs and training centres remain relevant.

At TEKHUB(www.tekhub.ng), for example, technology education is built around practical learning, mentorship and developing skills that can be applied to real projects.

The classroom becomes the starting point, while tools such as Google and AI can help learners continue exploring long after the class ends.

The future learner will need to know how to learn

As AI becomes increasingly integrated into education and work, one of the most valuable skills may be the ability to teach yourself.

Knowing how to:

Search effectively
Ask better questions
Write useful AI prompts
Verify information
Practise what you learn
Build real projects
Learn from mistakes
Seek guidance when necessary

can make a significant difference.

Google may help you find the information.

AI may help explain it.

But you still have to do the learning.

For Nigerians looking to enter the technology industry, this combination of self-learning, structured training, practical experience and AI-assisted learning could become one of the most powerful ways to build digital skills.

The internet is already a classroom. The next step is learning how to use it well.

#DigitalSkillsNigeria #AIforGood #TechInNigeria #WomenInTech

Science/Technology › GITEX Nigeria 2026: What “beyond Connectivity” Means For Nigeria's Tech Future by Technalia(op): 11:15am On Aug 31
Nigeria's technology ecosystem is entering another important moment.

The second edition of GITEX Nigeria officially begins today, 31 August 2026, bringing government leaders, technology companies, startups, investors, innovators and other stakeholders together around one major question:

What should Nigeria's digital future look like beyond simply being connected?

GITEX Nigeria 2026 is taking place from 31 August to 3 September 2026, across Abuja and Lagos, under the patronage of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This year's theme is:

“Beyond Connectivity: The Bridge to Sovereign AI and Innovation.”

The event is supported by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), with the Lagos State Government also endorsing the event.

What is happening at GITEX Nigeria 2026?

The programme is structured across two major locations.

31 August – Abuja

The Government Leadership & AI Summit is taking place at the Abuja Continental Hotel.

The summit brings together government officials, regulators, technology leaders and other stakeholders to discuss areas including:

Artificial intelligence
Digital public infrastructure
Digital identity
Cybersecurity
Digital governance
Connectivity
Digital public services

The official programme says the summit brings together more than 150 federal and state agencies alongside national ICT leaders.

2–3 September – Lagos

The Landmark Centre in Lagos will host the GITEX Nigeria Tech Expo and Startup Festival.

The Tech Expo will showcase technologies across areas such as:

Artificial intelligence
Cloud computing
Cybersecurity
Enterprise software
Telecommunications
Data centres
Digital infrastructure
Smart cities
IoT
Emerging technologies

The Startup Festival will also bring startups, founders, investors and ecosystem builders together.

Why “Beyond Connectivity”?

For years, much of Africa's digital transformation conversation has focused on getting people connected.

Internet access matters.

Mobile connectivity matters.

Digital infrastructure matters.

But connectivity alone does not automatically create economic transformation.

The next question is:

What are we going to build with that connectivity?

That is where AI, digital skills, innovation, entrepreneurship and locally developed technology become increasingly important.

Nigeria needs people who can build software.

People who understand data.

Cybersecurity professionals who can protect digital infrastructure.

AI engineers and researchers.

Product designers.

Cloud and DevOps professionals.

Digital entrepreneurs.

And technology educators capable of preparing the next generation.

The AI Question

Artificial intelligence is clearly one of the major themes surrounding GITEX Nigeria 2026.

The official event positioning describes the programme as a bridge toward sovereign AI and innovation, while the organisers say the event is intended to support responsible AI adoption and strengthen Nigeria's digital ecosystem.

This raises an important question for Nigerian education:

Are we preparing enough people to participate in the AI economy, rather than simply consume AI products?

That question goes beyond universities and government.

It also concerns technology academies, bootcamps, innovation hubs and community organisations.

Where Does Anambra Fit In?

Nigeria's technology conversation is often dominated by Lagos and Abuja.

But the country's digital future cannot be built by two cities alone.

States such as Anambra need strong local technology ecosystems where young people can acquire practical digital skills without necessarily having to relocate.

This is where technology hubs and training centres can play an important role.

Organisations such as TEKHUB Nigeria (www.tekhub.ng) in Anambra are part of this growing ecosystem, providing technology education across areas including software development, Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, cloud computing and other digital skills.

Beyond classroom training, TEKHUB has also built community and innovation programmes around technology, including Awka Tech Meetup, AI-Vantage, Tech Unleashed, Kids Code Camp and JSS3 Junior Developers Camp.

The bigger lesson is that Nigeria needs more local ecosystems capable of connecting:

Education → Skills → Projects → Innovation → Opportunities.

GITEX Should Not Just Be a Show

There is always a temptation to judge major technology events by the number of companies exhibiting or the number of people attending.

But the real value should be measured by what happens afterwards.

Do startups find investment?

Do businesses adopt useful technologies?

Do policymakers develop better digital policies?

Do young Nigerians discover new career opportunities?

Do technology communities form new partnerships?

Do more Nigerians acquire skills that are relevant to the emerging economy?

Those are the outcomes that matter.

What Should Nigerians Be Watching?

For students and young professionals, GITEX Nigeria is an opportunity to pay attention to where the industry is moving.

AI is becoming more important.

Cybersecurity is becoming more important.

Cloud infrastructure is becoming more important.

Data is becoming more important.

Digital public infrastructure is becoming more important.

And perhaps most importantly, digital skills are becoming increasingly connected to economic opportunity.

Nigeria's next technology challenge may therefore not be simply:

“How do we connect more people?”

It may be:

“How do we equip connected Nigerians to create value?”

That is the conversation that makes this year's “Beyond Connectivity” theme particularly relevant.

GITEX Nigeria 2026 runs from 31 August to 3 September, with Abuja hosting the Government Leadership & AI Summit on 31 August and Lagos hosting the Tech Expo and Startup Festival on 2–3 September.

For Nigeria's technology ecosystem, the real work begins when the event ends.

#GITEXNigeria2026 #DigitalSkillsNigeria #3MTT #AnambraTech #TVETNigeria #InclusiveTech #AI

Technology Market › Benefits Of Joining A Tech Hub:why Learning In A Community Can Give You A Leg Up by Technalia(op): 2:12pm On Aug 28
Technology is one of the fastest-changing industries in the world.

Every year, new programming frameworks, AI tools, cybersecurity threats, cloud platforms and digital products emerge.

This creates an interesting challenge for anyone trying to build a career in technology.

You can learn from YouTube.

You can take online courses.

You can read documentation.

You can even use AI to teach yourself.

So, why should anyone join a physical tech hub?

The answer is simple:

Learning technology is not only about acquiring information. It's also about building, connecting, getting feedback and finding opportunities.

That is where a good tech hub can make a difference.

What Exactly Is a Tech Hub?

A tech hub is more than a building where people come to use computers.

A properly structured technology hub can bring together:

Students
Developers
Entrepreneurs
Designers
Mentors
Instructors
Startup founders
Technology enthusiasts
Industry professionals

The goal is to create an environment where people can learn, collaborate, experiment and build.

And for someone just starting a technology career, that environment can be extremely valuable.

1. You Learn With Other People

One of the biggest advantages of joining a tech hub is community.

Learning alone can sometimes become frustrating.

You get stuck on a programming problem.

Your project isn't working.

You don't understand a concept.

You search Google for hours.

A learning community gives you people who may have encountered the same problem.

Instead of struggling alone, you can discuss the problem, compare approaches and learn from other people's experiences.

2. Access to Mentors

Courses can teach concepts.

Mentors can help you understand how those concepts are actually applied.

A good mentor can look at your project and tell you:

"This works, but here's how you could make it better."

That kind of feedback can be difficult to get when learning entirely on your own.

3. You Get to Work on Real Projects

There is a huge difference between watching someone build an application and actually building one yourself.

Tech hubs can provide project-based learning environments where learners are encouraged to turn knowledge into something tangible.

For example, instead of simply learning HTML and CSS, you could build a complete website.

Instead of learning about databases theoretically, you could build an application that uses one.

Instead of studying entrepreneurship from slides, you could work on an actual product idea.

Projects give you something important:

evidence of what you can do.

4. You Build a Portfolio.

Certificates can demonstrate that you completed a course.

A portfolio demonstrates what you can actually build.

This is especially important when applying for:

Internships
Junior developer positions
Freelance work
Remote opportunities
Startup roles

A tech hub that encourages learners to build projects can therefore help students move beyond simply collecting certificates.

5. Networking Opportunities

Your next opportunity may not come from a job website.

It could come from someone you meet.

A fellow developer might need a designer.

A founder might need a developer.

A company might be looking for an intern.

A mentor might know about an opportunity.

Being part of a technology community increases the number of people you interact with.

And networking isn't simply about asking people for jobs.

It's about building relationships.

6. Exposure to the Wider Tech Ecosystem

A good technology hub should connect learning to what is happening outside the classroom.

That could include:

Tech meetups
Workshops
Hackathons
Demo days
Startup events
Industry talks
Community projects

These activities expose learners to technologies, people and ideas they may not encounter through a traditional course.

7. A Professional Learning Environment

Your environment can influence your consistency.

Studying at home can work.

But sometimes distractions make it difficult to maintain momentum.

A dedicated technology environment gives learners a place where the expectation is:

learn, build and improve.

This can be especially useful for beginners trying to establish a routine.

8. Collaboration

Technology is rarely built by one person.

A real product may require:

Developers
Designers
Data professionals
Project managers
Marketers
Cybersecurity specialists

Working alongside people from different backgrounds teaches you how technology projects actually happen.

9. Exposure to Emerging Technology

Technology doesn't stop at web development.

Today's technology ecosystem includes:

Artificial intelligence
Machine learning
Cloud computing
Cybersecurity
Data science
Robotics
Automation
Spatial computing

Tech hubs can give learners opportunities to explore these emerging areas and understand where the industry is heading.

10. Career Guidance

One of the biggest challenges beginners face is simply not knowing what to do next.

Should I learn frontend or backend?

Should I specialise in cybersecurity?

How do I build a portfolio?

When should I start applying for internships?

What should I put on my CV?

A strong tech ecosystem can help learners answer these questions through mentorship and career guidance.

TEKHUB as an Example

In Anambra State, TEKHUB Nigeria (www.tekhub.ng) provides an example of the ecosystem approach to technology education.

Rather than positioning technology learning solely around classroom instruction, TEKHUB combines training with practical projects, mentorship, community activities, technology events and innovation-focused programmes.

Its programmes cover areas including software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, cloud computing, digital marketing, UI/UX and other technology skills.

The hub also organises initiatives and events designed to bring learners and technology enthusiasts together, including Awka Tech Meetup, AI-Vantage, Kids Code Camp, JSS3 Junior Developers Camp and Tech Unleashed.

That ecosystem model is important because technology careers require more than technical knowledge.

They require practice, community, exposure and continuous learning.

Is Joining a Tech Hub Necessary?

Not necessarily.

You can absolutely learn technology independently.

There are excellent online resources available today.

But joining the right tech hub can potentially shorten the distance between:

Learning → Practising → Building → Networking → Finding opportunities.

The important thing is choosing the right environment.

Before joining a tech hub, ask:

Do they have experienced instructors?

Will I build real projects?

Is there mentorship?

Is there an active community?

Are there practical workshops?

Do they expose learners to emerging technologies?

Can I access career guidance?

Does the environment encourage collaboration?

Final Thoughts

Technology is not an industry where learning ever really ends.

The tools change.

The frameworks change.

The job requirements change.

The best learning environment is therefore one that encourages you to keep adapting.

A good tech hub can provide something that an online course cannot always provide easily:

a community of people learning, building and growing alongside you.

For anyone considering a technology career in Nigeria, joining the right tech hub could be more than a decision about where to take a course.

It could be a decision about which ecosystem you want to grow in.

#3MTT #DigitalSkillsNigeria #TechInNigeria #NigerianTech #GITEXNigeria #LearnToCode #FutureSkills

Educational Services › Will AI Take Over Tech Jobs? Nigeria Is Already Updating For The AI Era by Technalia(op): 12:34pm On Aug 27
Every few months, Artificial Intelligence seems to do something new.

AI can now generate images.

Write articles.

Analyse documents.

Create presentations.

Assist with programming.

Generate code.

Design interfaces.

Automate repetitive tasks.

And increasingly, many people learning highly sought-after digital skills are asking the same question:

"Will AI eventually take over my job?"

It's a valid concern.

If you're currently learning software development, UI/UX design, digital marketing, data analysis, content creation or project management, the speed at which AI is evolving can feel almost frightening.

You spend months learning a skill.

Then a new AI tool appears and performs part of that work in seconds.

But perhaps the bigger question is not:
Will AI take over tech skills?

Maybe it is:
Which tech skills will change, and are we learning how to adapt quickly enough?

Interestingly, Nigeria's technical education system is already beginning to respond to this new reality.

The National Board for Technical Education has moved towards formally integrating Artificial Intelligence into technical and vocational education. NITDA has also publicly described the unveiling of an ND curriculum in Artificial Intelligence for Nigerian polytechnics as a landmark development, while NBTE has outlined broader plans for integrating AI into teaching, learning, assessment, curriculum development and quality assurance.

This is significant.

It means AI is increasingly being treated not simply as a trendy online course, but as an area of formal technical education.

AI Is Not Waiting for Nigerian Schools to Catch Up

This is the reality.

Technology education has traditionally taken time to change.

A new technology emerges.

Industry starts using it.

People begin demanding new skills.

Then, eventually, schools and regulatory bodies update their curricula.

But AI is evolving unusually quickly.

The tools people use today may look significantly different in a few years.

That creates pressure on everyone:

Students
Teachers
Universities
Polytechnics
Tech bootcamps
Employers
Regulatory bodies

The challenge is no longer simply teaching people digital skills.

It is teaching them skills that can continue evolving.

Will AI Replace Software Developers?

Probably not in the simple way people imagine.

AI can already help developers:

Generate code
Explain code
Find bugs
Write documentation
Create test cases
Suggest solutions

But software development is more than typing code.

A developer still needs to understand:

What problem is being solved
How a system should work
How different technologies connect
Security
Performance
Databases
User needs
System architecture

AI can generate code.

But someone still needs to understand whether that code is useful, secure and appropriate.

The role may change.

Developers who know how to work effectively with AI may become more productive.

Developers who refuse to adapt may struggle more.

What About UI/UX Designers?

AI can now generate interfaces.

It can suggest layouts.

It can create images and assets.

It can even transform simple descriptions into designs.

But a good product designer does more than arrange buttons on a screen.

Design involves understanding:

Users
Problems
Behaviour
Accessibility
Business goals
User journeys

AI can assist with the design process.

But understanding people remains an important human skill.

The future Product Designer may simply need to become an AI-assisted Product Designer.

What About Digital Marketers?

This is another area where AI is already making a major impact.

AI can help create:

Content ideas
Draft captions
Email copy
Images
Videos
Reports

But if everyone has access to the same AI tools, then simply generating content is no longer enough.

The people who will stand out may be those who understand:

Strategy
Audience behaviour
Brand positioning
Distribution
Analytics
Creativity
Business objectives

AI can generate a hundred posts.

It doesn't automatically know which one will genuinely connect with your audience.

The Skills That May Become More Valuable

As AI becomes more capable, some skills may become even more important.

Critical thinking

AI can give an answer.

Can you determine whether it is correct?

Problem-solving

Can you identify what problem actually needs to be solved?

AI literacy

Can you use AI tools effectively and understand their limitations?

Domain knowledge

Do you understand the industry or field where you're applying technology?

Creativity

Can you think beyond predictable outputs?

Communication

Can you clearly explain ideas to people and systems?

The future may favour people who combine technical knowledge with these abilities.

Why the New AI Curriculum Matters

Nigeria cannot afford to treat AI as something only people in Silicon Valley need to understand.

The world of work is changing.

Technical education must change too.

According to NITDA, the AI curriculum initiative sits within a broader recognition that technologies such as AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, robotics, data science, the Internet of Things and intelligent automation are transforming industries.

NBTE has also established work around a national strategy for integrating AI into technical and vocational education, covering areas such as teaching and learning, curriculum development, quality assurance, labour-market alignment, governance and data protection.

That is a much bigger conversation than simply teaching students how to use ChatGPT.

But Curriculum Updates Alone Are Not Enough

This is where Nigeria must be careful.

Creating a curriculum is an important first step.

Implementing it properly is another challenge entirely.

Schools and training institutions will need:

Updated learning resources
AI infrastructure
Internet access
Qualified instructors
Practical projects
Access to relevant tools
Industry partnerships

Students should not spend two years memorising definitions of AI.

They should understand how to build with it.

How to evaluate it.

How to apply it.

How to use it responsibly.

How to solve real problems with it.

What Does This Mean for Tech Bootcamps?

Tech bootcamps will also have to evolve.

A curriculum that was enough two years ago may no longer be enough today.

Teaching only HTML and CSS, for example, without exposing learners to modern AI-assisted workflows may eventually leave learners behind.

The same applies to:

Design
Data
Cybersecurity
Digital marketing
Software development
Project management

This doesn't mean traditional fundamentals should disappear.

Actually, the fundamentals may become even more important.

You need enough knowledge to know when AI is wrong.

At TEKHUB (www.tekhub.ng), the opportunity is to continue building practical training around both core digital skills and emerging technologies.

The goal should not be:

"AI is here, so stop learning everything else."

The goal should be:

"AI is here, so learn your core skill and learn how AI is changing it."

My Final Take

I don't think AI will simply wake up one morning and make every developer, designer or digital marketer irrelevant.

But I do think this:

People who understand how their industries are changing may replace people who refuse to adapt.

The future may not belong to:

AI vs Humans.

It may be:

Humans using AI effectively vs humans who don't.

And with Nigeria now taking steps towards formally integrating AI into technical education, students and professionals should probably take that signal seriously.

Don't panic about AI.

Learn it. Question it. Test it. Build with it.

Because whether we are ready or not, the future of work is already changing.

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