By Winifred Bosa
In a bid to foster stronger industry partnerships and promote the upcoming annual conference, BJAN executive members paid a courtesy visit to Stanbic IBTC. The meeting focused on enhancing collaboration, expanding market outreach, and reinforcing mutual interests within the financial sector. The photo captures the warm exchange between BJAN leaders and Stanbic IBTC representatives.
By Winifred Bosa
Amid Africa’s growing wave of infrastructure investment and innovation, the Project Management Institute (PMI) is convening the continent’s most influential voices at the Global Summit Series Africa, driving urgent, collective action to redefine how projects deliver impact and value. Hosted at the Kigali Convention Centre in Rwanda between 19 to 21 August, the Summit is designed for senior project professionals, C-suite executives, government officials, development partners, and emerging project talent committed to driving transformation across Africa.
As Africa contends with intersecting challenges, from climate change and infrastructure gaps to job creation, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence, there is a critical need to recalibrate how projects are initiated, managed, and delivered across the continent. Project success can no longer be measured solely by timelines or budgets met. In today’s context, success must also be evaluated by how well a project enhances resilience, drives inclusive growth, unlocks sustainable innovation, and creates lasting social value.
“Africa’s project economy remains vibrant yet vulnerable,” says George Asamani, MD, PMI Sub-Saharan Africa. “The African Development Bank estimates the continent needs up to $170 billion annually to close its infrastructure gap, with a financing shortfall of as much as $108 billion. With so much at stake, project management can’t be an afterthought; it’s key to delivery. As countries advance infrastructure, digital, and social programmes, the demand for skilled professionals is more urgent than ever.”
“The Global Summit Series Africa responds to this urgency. This is not just a moment to gather, it’s a moment to grow and guide. It is where knowledge meets practice and where bold voices converge to ask and answer: How can Africa execute differently?”
This year’s lineup showcases the strength of pan-African leadership, from the corridors of government to the frontlines of innovation. These voices are not only driving transformation within their own countries but also offering continental perspectives with global relevance.
A highlight of the Summit will be a special message from Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, who has long championed the role of project execution in unlocking Africa’s prosperity.
This call for purposeful execution resonates across sectors. Senior executives from utilities, banking, education, and telecommunications, as well as influential voices from sports and music, will take the stage to share hard-won insights on building future-fit institutions, creative industries, and systems that deliver lasting impact.
Taking the stage across the three days of the Summit are Armand Nzeyimana, Director of the Development Impact and Results Department, African Development Bank; Olajumoke Akinwunmi, MD, Real Estate at Alitheia Capital Ltd; Kusobile Kamwambi, Head of the Presidential Delivery Unit, Government of Zambia; and Samuel Dubik Masubir Mahama, ex-MD of the Electricity Company of Ghana, alongside influential cultural voices such as Nigerian-American singer, actor, and entrepreneur Olubankole Wellington (Banky W), and chess champion and Guinness World Record holder Tunde Onakoya.
Joining them are leading project professionals from across the continent, including Stanley Iringe-Koko, Senior Manager of IT Projects and Portfolio at MTN Nigeria; Grace Johnson, Founding Partner and Strategic Advisor at the Framework for AI Transformation (FAIT); Ancicalia Matizha, Group Head PMO at Old Mutual Zimbabwe; Emily Mutaga, Head of PMO at Bank of Kigali, and Nozibele Ntshokontsha, Head of PMO at Rand Water.
“In Africa, the stakes are high; projects must deliver tangible outcomes, often under complex conditions. That’s why the Summit matters. It brings together professionals who understand our realities and are focused on delivery that works in our context. Having spoken at this Summit before, I’m returning because these conversations are not only relevant, they drive the kind of collaboration and clarity we need to move Africa forward and make Agenda 2063 more than a vision, but a lived reality,” adds Billy Mwape, CIO of FNB Zambia, one of the main speakers.
PMI Chapter Presidents from Ghana, Kenya, Angola, Togo, and Namibia will join PMI Rwanda Chapter President Innocent Kayigamba in contributing to the dialogue. Their participation is a powerful reminder that transformation in Africa is not only top-down but also bottom-up: peer-driven and locally grounded.
Reserve your place at Africa’s leading conversation on purposeful project delivery. This is your final chance to secure tickets at standard rates. visit https://pmiglobalsummitafrica.gcs-web.com/
By Winifred Bosa
Cavista Holdings has announced the promotion of Olumide Olayomi to the position of Executive Director/Vice President, Government and External Affairs. According to the management of the company, the strategic appointment reflects the firm’s unwavering commitment to deepening institutional partnerships and reinforcing its leadership with experienced professionals who share its mission of creating value and transforming lives across Africa.
Olayomi, who previously served as Cavista’s Director of Government and External Affairs, is a highly respected governance advisor and institutional strategist with over three decades of experience across Nigeria’s public and private sectors. He is known for his ability to navigate complex policy environments and for aligning government, business, and community interests.
With academic grounding in Geography and Planning and executive education from institutions such as the Lagos Business School, Mr. Olayomi has held pivotal roles throughout his career. These include serving as Head of Government and Community Relations at Etisalat (now 9mobile), leading Corporate Services at Churchgate Group, and advising on policy as Special Assistant to the Secretary to the Lagos State Government.
In 2016, he was appointed Sole Administrator of Apapa Iganmu LCDA, where he provided leadership for over one million residents, emphasizing transparency, service delivery, and institutional reform.
His private sector expertise also extends to his role as Head of Strategy and Operations at Olivestrength Nigeria Ltd., and as a long-standing advisor on governance, intergovernmental coordination, and public sector performance.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Mr. Olayomi chairs Omonide Farms Ltd., and is a Fellow of LEAD International (a Rockefeller Foundation initiative), a Justice of the Peace, and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered). He has made notable contributions to Lagos State’s tax reform and has participated in several global leadership forums.
“Olumide is a consummate professional who works tirelessly to lead our Government and External Affairs team at Cavista Holdings,” said John Olajide, Chairman of Cavista Holdings. “His promotion is a testament to his strategic leadership and the respect he commands across our organization. I have full confidence in his continued impact.”
Cavista Holdings congratulates Mr. Olayomi on this well-earned advancement and looks forward to his ongoing contributions as the organization strengthens its pan-African footprint and global partnerships.
By Winifred Bosa
Polaris Bank is set to host the 2025 edition of its Annual Media Capacity Seminar on July 17, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This year’s seminar is themed: “Empowering Journalists in the Digital Age: Storytelling, Tools & Transformation”, and will feature two distinguished facilitators: Taiwo Obe, Founder and Director of Journalism Clinic, and Abayomi Adisa, a Senior Journalist with the BBC.
Now in its 11th year, Polaris Bank’s Media Capacity Seminar has grown into a flagship media education initiative supporting journalism excellence and professional development across Nigeria. Since its inception in 2015, the program has trained over 5,500 journalists, equipping them with the contemporary knowledge and tools needed to thrive in an evolving media landscape and AI era.
The 2024 edition, held in a hybrid format, recorded over 500 participants and focused on “Integrating AI Tools in Contemporary Media Practices for Innovation and Excellence.” Participants gained insights into data journalism, fact-checking, multimedia storytelling, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in the newsroom.
Building on last year’s success, the 2025 edition will explore critical aspects of modern journalism, including digital storytelling, transformative newsroom practices, and emerging tools that can help journalists remain relevant in practice and impactful in today’s information age.
Attendance at the seminar is free, but registration is mandatory. Interested participants can still register via bit.ly/PAMC2025.
Polaris Bank remains committed to promoting responsible journalism through robust, consistent and premium media education and investing in initiatives that foster a more informed and progressive society.
Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ (Coral Tides)
Infinix Nigeria today unveiled its latest HOT 60 Series lineup, including the HOT 60 Pro+, HOT 60 Pro, and HOT 60i. Leading the series, the Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ redefines slim smartphone design with a groundbreaking 5.95mm ultra-slim body, setting a new global benchmark as the world’s slimmest 3D-curved screen phone.
The HOT 60 Pro+ goes beyond ultra-slim aesthetics, delivering comprehensive upgrades in functionality, performance, thermal efficiency, and durability. As the latest achievement of Infinix’s continuous innovation, the HOT Series represents a next-generation tech-fashion icon designed to meet the needs of young consumers worldwide.
Measuring just 5.95mm, the HOT 60 Pro+ redefines global standards for 3D-curved screen smartphones. Infinix’s proprietary ultra-slim engineering overcomes conventional structural and battery limitations. Compared to the previous generation, thickness is reduced by 12.5% and weight by 4.3%, while integrating a higher-capacity fast-charging battery—all within a lightweight 155g body.
A Maximized Structured Space Design, achieved through a distributed flat architecture, enhances internal efficiency and supports precision structural engineering. Ten critical components — including the SIM tray, speakers, and Type-C port, are custom-engineered to maintain full functionality without compromising the device’s ultra-slim profile.
The battery cover features one of the industry’s first ultra-thin NanoFiber Backshields, enhanced by Infinix’s pioneering OMR (Out-Mold Decoration) process. This advanced multi-layer structure reduces thickness by 20% compared to conventional 0.45mm solutions, while offering superior hardness and exceptional flex resistance.
Durability is further strengthened by an Aerospace-Grade Aluminum mid-frame with reinforced structural corners. The 3D-curved display is protected by ultra-thin Corning® Gorilla® Glass 7i, offering improved scratch resistance and drop protection.
These innovations deliver 1.4 times better bend resistance than the previous generation. The HOT 60 Pro+ has successfully passed Infinix’s most rigorous 1.5-meter directional drop tests, achieving an unprecedented balance of slimness, strength, and reliability.
Color-Pop Design with Refined Attention to Detail
The Scent Weave Leather Special Edition features four variants blending premium textures with infused fragrance, offering a surprising, multisensory experience for style-focused young users.
Building on the HOT Series’ signature sugar-cube inspired camera design, the HOT 60 Pro+ introduces a floating camera module that visually separates from the back panel, creating a refined, three-dimensional effect. Seamlessly integrated Active Halo Lighting adds minimalist, futuristic flair.
The HOT 60 Pro and HOT 60 5G further elevate design precision with metallic accent rings and bold contrasting trims, reflecting the vibrant One-Tap AI buttons for a cohesive visual experience.
Infinix’s attention to detail extends to the device’s overall form. The HOT 60 Series adopts smooth R-curved corner design precisely matched to the camera arc, creating a more harmonious silhouette and enhanced in-hand comfort. These refinements reimagine the HOT design DNA with bold aesthetics and youthful vitality.
5160mAh High-Capacity Battery with 45W FastCharge
The HOT 60 Series introduces a next-generation 5160mAh ultra-thin, high-capacity battery using advanced non-silicon doping technology. With a record energy density of 810Wh/L, battery capacity increases by 1.08 times compared to previous models while maintaining an ultra-thin profile.
Battery lifespan extends by 20%, retaining over 80% health after 1800 charging cycles to ensure reliable daily use for years to come. All three models support 45W super-fast charging. The HOT 60 Pro+ charges from 1% to 50% in 23 minutes under Hyper Mode[1] and achieves a full charge in 55 minutes, representing a 12.7% speed improvement over the previous generation.
Intelligent power management optimizes energy consumption for social media, video streaming, and gaming. Brightness adjustments alone save approximately 50mAh per hour, which can extend usage by up to 15 minutes on TikTok, or 15 minutes of Free Fire gaming, or up to 40 minutes of messaging, depending on the activity.
Hardware and software integration delivers exceptional all-around performance, overcoming typical trade-offs between slimness and battery life.
Slim Yet Powerful: Comprehensive Performance Upgrades
Despite its ultra-slim profile, the HOT 60 Pro+ delivers significant upgrades in imaging, performance, and thermal management.
The rear camera features a 50MP SONY IMX882 ultra-sensitive sensor, delivering exceptional clarity and significantly improved low-light performance. Infinix’s latest AI RAW image processing enhances detail, color accuracy, and night photography. Full-pixel autofocus and 2X lossless zoom provide professional-grade shooting versatility.
The Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ and HOT 60 Pro are the first to debut the MediaTek Helio G200 chipset, combining MediaTek’s advanced technology with exclusive Infinix optimizations to ensure high-speed, smooth, and long-lasting performance.
HOT 60 Pro+ also features Infinix’s most advanced cooling system to date, with 11 layers of thermal materials and a further 220mm² increase in industry-leading ultra-conductive crystal graphite.
The device features ultra-slim 0.88mm bottom bezels for immersive visuals. The AMOLED display supports a 144Hz refresh rate, 1.5K physical resolution, in-display fingerprint unlock, and peak brightness of 4500 nits for clarity even under direct sunlight.
AI Eye Comfort includes both Gaming Eye Comfort to reduce eye strain during gameplay and Sleep Aid Mode to ease visual fatigue in daily use, helping provide a more comfortable and healthier viewing experience throughout the day.
Smarter AI Designed for Young Users, with Refreshed XOS System
All HOT 60 Series models feature Folax—Infinix’s intelligent cross-app AI assistant—accessible via a dedicated AI key for smart, seamless interactions.
Exclusive AI features include AI Vogue Portraits for the HOT 60 Pro+, HOT 60 Pro, and HOT 60 5G, combining user photos with dynamic visual effects across lock screens and always-on displays. AI Image Extender and upgraded AI Eraser tools offer high-quality, effortless editing.
The latest XOS 15.1.1 system delivers a refreshed user interface, including updated icons, wallpapers, and always-on displays designed for youthful, trend-conscious users.
System-wide optimizations enhance interaction fluidity and long-term device performance. The HOT 60 Pro+, HOT 60 Pro, and HOT 60 5G are certified by TÜV SÜD for 60 months of sustained fluency.
Effortless NFC Touch Transfer with UltraLink Free Call: Expanding Everyday Possibilities
The HOT 60 Series supports effortless file transfers via NFC, enabling seamless cross-device collaboration. With NFC Touch Transfer[2], users can instantly share content with a simple tap, significantly enhancing the speed and convenience of data sharing between compatible devices.
The HOT 60 Pro+ introduces UltraLink Free Call, allowing two-way calling and messaging over bluetooth at distances of up to 1.5km in open environments. Ideal for outdoor adventures, fieldwork, or emergencies, it ensures reliable communication even without conventional network coverage.
All models in the HOT 60 Series are rated IP64 for dust and water resistance, while the HOT 60 Pro+ achieves an enhanced IP65 rating for superior protection. The HOT 60 Pro+ also features JBL-certified dual stereo speakers, delivering rich, immersive audio with precise tuning across bass, mid, and treble frequencies for an exceptional listening experience.
Pricing and Availability
Through relentless technical breakthroughs, the HOT 60 Pro+ achieves the perfect balance of ultra-slim design, powerful functionality, and elevated aesthetics—once again reflecting Infinix’s solid foundation of technological strength and its brand vision of bold, cutting-edge innovation.
The HOT 60 Pro+, an ultra-slim 3D-curved screen smartphone that exceeds expectations, is now available in authorized retail stores across Nigeria. Pricing starts from N143,900 for the HOT 60i (128+4GB), N229,300 for the HOT 60 Pro(128+8GB), and N269,600 for the HOT 60 Pro+ (128+8GB).
Media Contacts:
Infinix Global PR – Global.PR@infinixmobility.com
About Infinix
Established in 2013, Infinix is an innovation-driven brand dedicated to delivering cutting-edge technology, bold design, and outstanding performance. The brand provides smart, enjoyable mobile experiences that enhance everyday life. Beyond smartphones, Infinix has expanded its portfolio to include TWS earbuds, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and more—building a comprehensive ecosystem of smart devices. Currently, Infinix products are available in over 70 countries and regions worldwide, including Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
Source : Channels TV
By Winifred Bosa
As preparations intensify for the maiden edition of the Brand Handlers Summit 2025, Marketing Space magazine has unveiled some of Nigeria’s brightest minds in marketing, branding, and communications, who will come together to chart a path forward in advancing brand and marketing excellence in Nigeria.
The event, themed “Advancing Nigeria’s Marketing Ecosystem to Drive Brand Growth,” is scheduled to hold at the prestigious Regency Hall, Alausa, Lagos.
This year’s summit, powered by Marketing Space, is designed to celebrate the visionaries behind Nigeria’s most impactful brands and to explore how organisations can elevate their strategic marketing efforts amid a rapidly evolving consumer landscape. With a thoughtfully curated lineup of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, the summit promises to serve as a pivotal moment of reflection and strategy for marketing professionals across various sectors.
According to Lukman Ishau, Publisher of Marketing Space and Convener of the Brand Handlers Summit, “The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards is more than just an event, it is a platform for discourse and a stage for recognising those who shape perception, influence consumer choice, and build enduring brands. We are intentional about creating a space where top-level executives and brand custodians can share insights and collaboratively redefine the future of marketing in Nigeria.”
The event will be chaired by Udeme Ufot, MFR, Group CEO of SO&U Limited, while the keynote address will be delivered by Stephen Onaivi, Managing Director of mediaReach OMD, and renowned media executive Clara Okoro, COO of BrandWorld Media, will moderate the panel session.
The panel will feature strategic insights from respected industry leaders, including Kayode Olagesin, Managing Director of Towncriers Limited; Kayode Ebatamehi, Managing Director of Bluebird Communications; Victoria Uwadoka, Head of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs at Nestlé Nigeria; and Roseline Abaraonye, Marketing Director of Imperio Nigeria Ltd. Together, they will examine the roles of leadership, storytelling, and technology in shaping marketing outcomes for brands operating in Nigeria’s competitive landscape.
Speaking further on the summit’s goals, Micheal Efengbe, Project Coordinator of the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards, remarked, “We have designed this summit to be a high-level conversation where marketing leaders and decision-makers can come together to share real solutions, not just ideas. It’s about bridging knowledge gaps, sparking collaboration, and unlocking new growth opportunities for brands.”
Beyond the engaging sessions, the summit will also serve as a platform to honor individuals and institutions whose contributions continue to elevate Nigeria’s marketing industry, setting benchmarks for professionalism, creativity, and impact.
The event will kick off at 3:00 PM at Regency Hall, 1 Otunba Jobi-Fele Way, CBD, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos. For participation or sponsorship inquiries, interested stakeholders are encouraged to contact 07030909516 or 08073102434.
Join the conversation online using the hashtags #BrandHandlers2025, #MarketingSpace, and #BrandExcellence, and be part of a defining moment in Nigeria’s marketing evolution.
As preparations intensify for the maiden edition of the Brand Handlers Summit 2025, Marketing Space magazine has unveiled some of Nigeria’s brightest minds in marketing, branding, and communications, who will come together to chart a path forward in advancing brand and marketing excellence in Nigeria.
The event, themed “Advancing Nigeria’s Marketing Ecosystem to Drive Brand Growth,” is scheduled to hold at the prestigious Regency Hall, Alausa, Lagos.
This year’s summit, powered by Marketing Space, is designed to celebrate the visionaries behind Nigeria’s most impactful brands and to explore how organisations can elevate their strategic marketing efforts amid a rapidly evolving consumer landscape. With a thoughtfully curated lineup of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, the summit promises to serve as a pivotal moment of reflection and strategy for marketing professionals across various sectors.
According to Lukman Ishau, Publisher of Marketing Space and Convener of the Brand Handlers Summit, “The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards is more than just an event, it is a platform for discourse and a stage for recognising those who shape perception, influence consumer choice, and build enduring brands. We are intentional about creating a space where top-level executives and brand custodians can share insights and collaboratively redefine the future of marketing in Nigeria.”
The event will be chaired by Udeme Ufot, MFR, Group CEO of SO&U Limited, while the keynote address will be delivered by Stephen Onaivi, Managing Director of mediaReach OMD, and renowned media executive Clara Okoro, COO of BrandWorld Media, will moderate the panel session.
The panel will feature strategic insights from respected industry leaders, including Kayode Olagesin, Managing Director of Towncriers Limited; Kayode Ebatamehi, Managing Director of Bluebird Communications; Victoria Uwadoka, Head of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs at Nestlé Nigeria; and Roseline Abaraonye, Marketing Director of Imperio Nigeria Ltd. Together, they will examine the roles of leadership, storytelling, and technology in shaping marketing outcomes for brands operating in Nigeria’s competitive landscape.
Speaking further on the summit’s goals, Micheal Efengbe, Project Coordinator of the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards, remarked, “We have designed this summit to be a high-level conversation where marketing leaders and decision-makers can come together to share real solutions, not just ideas. It’s about bridging knowledge gaps, sparking collaboration, and unlocking new growth opportunities for brands.”
Beyond the engaging sessions, the summit will also serve as a platform to honor individuals and institutions whose contributions continue to elevate Nigeria’s marketing industry, setting benchmarks for professionalism, creativity, and impact.
The event will kick off at 3:00 PM at Regency Hall, 1 Otunba Jobi-Fele Way, CBD, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos. For participation or sponsorship inquiries, interested stakeholders are encouraged to contact 07030909516 or 08073102434.
Join the conversation online using the hashtags #BrandHandlers2025, #MarketingSpace, and #BrandExcellence, and be part of a defining moment in Nigeria’s marketing evolution.
By Winifred Bosa
As part of ongoing efforts to ensure safer water for all Nigerians, Nestlé Nigeria is partnering with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation to launch a National Water Quality Advocacy Campaign aimed at raising awareness, educating communities, and mobilizing multi-stakeholder action around water safety and sustainable water practices.
The collaboration, announced in Abuja during a courtesy visit by Nestlé and members of the Organized Private Sector in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (OPS-WASH), reinforces the government’s commitment to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda through improved access to clean water and sanitation.
At the meeting, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, welcomed the partnership, noting its importance in tackling persistent public health threats such as cholera and diarrhea while also addressing challenges related to flooding and climate resilience.
He assured the Ministry’s full support for Nestlé’s campaign and pledged timely collaboration to deliver impactful results. “The Ministry is committed to working with Nestlé Nigeria to improve water quality across the country. This partnership is in line with our mission to ensure safe water access and support the health and wellbeing of all Nigerians.”
Speaking on the company’s role, Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead at Nestlé Nigeria, said:
“Water is essential to life, yet millions of Nigerians remain at risk due to unsafe water sources. Our campaign is not just about raising awareness, it’s about shifting behaviors and building partnerships that deliver lasting impact. We’re working across communities, industries, and institutions to help close the knowledge gap, improve water safety, and support national health outcomes.”
She emphasized that the campaign rests on three pillars: building awareness and knowledge, engaging stakeholders at all levels, and driving long-term, sustainable action.
Providing additional perspective, Dr. Nicholas Igwe, National Coordinator of OPS-WASH, shared details of the initiative’s community reach:
“We are taking a long-term, impact-led approach. In Abaji Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, 16 communities will benefit from water quality interventions, while 8 communities in Agbara, Ogun State, are also included. In addition, two agricultural communities will receive water harvesting systems to support irrigation and food production.”
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Ministry and OPS-WASH, reaffirming cross-sector commitment to accelerating access to clean, safe water for all Nigerians.
By Winifred Bosa
L–R: Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo; Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; and Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo, at the commissioning of the restored Kano Digital Industrial Park, refurbished in collaboration with IHS Nigeria, on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.
The Federal Government has commissioned the fully refurbished and restored Kano Digital Industrial Park, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive digital growth, youth empowerment, and strong private sector collaboration. The facility, which suffered significant damage during the August 2024 protests, has now been fully restored through a generous intervention by IHS Nigeria.
The commissioning ceremony, which took place on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, was led by the President of Nigeria, ably represented by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani. The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Kano State (representing the Governor) Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo; the Emir of Kano, represented by His Highness, Jarman Kano, Amb. Ahmed Umar OON; the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission Dr Aminu Maida; the Minister of State for Youth Development; representatives from IHS Nigeria; and other senior government officials.
Delivering his opening remarks, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the strategic importance of the park and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to enabling Nigeria’s digital future.
“The recommissioning of the NCC Digital Industrial Park in Kano is a landmark moment in our journey to accelerate ICT innovation and empower the next generation of digital pioneers. This facility will serve as a catalyst for digital inclusion, economic transformation, and youth empowerment not just in Kano, but across the entire Northwest region. We remain committed to creating a thriving digital ecosystem where innovation can flourish and no one is left behind in Nigeria’s digital revolution.” He said.
Speaking on behalf of the Executive Governor of Kano State, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, reaffirmed the state’s digital ambition and expressed deep appreciation for the partnership that made the park’s restoration possible.
“This commissioning marks more than the unveiling of a refurbished structure, it represents Kano’s bold vision to lead Northern Nigeria’s digital transformation. “We are grateful to IHS Nigeria for their swift response and unwavering support following the vandalization of this facility. Their commitment goes beyond corporate responsibility, it reflects a shared vision for a digitally inclusive Nigeria. He said
Also speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo, who represented the CEO of IHS Nigeria, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s digital future.
“Our decision to sponsor the refurbishment of the Kano Digital Park is rooted in our commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital economy and empowering young Nigerians with the skills to thrive in the digital age,” he said.
“This partnership with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy is a clear demonstration of the power of public-private collaboration in addressing national challenges. We are proud to contribute to the 3MTT program and help restore this park as a hub of innovation and opportunity for the Kano community. Supporting initiatives like this and others such as the Ilorin Innovation Hub is how we aim to foster long-term digital growth, create jobs, and drive inclusive development across Nigeria.” He added.
Capping off the event, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, highlighted the significance of public-private collaboration in shaping Nigeria’s digital future.
“The recommissioning of the Kano Digital Industrial Park is a powerful demonstration of what is possible when public and private sector actors unite behind a shared vision. This facility is more than just infrastructure, it is a beacon of innovation, resilience, and opportunity for Northern Nigeria. IHS Nigeria’s swift intervention following the vandalism of this park reflects true partnership and corporate citizenship. Together, we are laying the foundation for a future where young Nigerians, especially those in underserved communities, have the tools and training to thrive in a digital economy.” He highlighted.
The Kano Digital Industrial Park forms a key part of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative, a flagship government program aimed at equipping Nigerians with globally competitive digital skills. The renovation includes fully equipped training labs, power and connectivity infrastructure, upgraded learning spaces, and restored digital equipment to support thousands of learners across Northern Nigeria.
The commissioning of the Kano Digital Industrial Park comes just weeks after Ilorin Innovation Hub, the largest innovation hub of its kind in West Africa, which is also sponsored by IHS Nigeria, kicked off its incubation and acceleration programs. These interventions highlight IHS Nigeria’s continued commitment to fostering innovation, creating jobs, and driving the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy. By bringing the Kano Digital Industrial Park back on stream, IHS is reinforcing its pledge to support impactful initiatives at both the federal and sub-national levels, particularly those that provide opportunities for young Nigerians, who represent the future of the nation.
By Winifred Bosa
The 25th anniversary edition of the MILO Basketball Championship came to an exciting close at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, with Father O’Connell Science College, Niger State, and Government Secondary School (GSS) Karu, FCT, emerging as national champions in the male and female categories, respectively.
The national finals brought together the best secondary school basketball teams from across Nigeria in a thrilling celebration of sporting excellence and youth empowerment. This milestone edition highlighted the impact of the championship, which has helped shape the lives of students in over 13,000 schools this year.
In a hard-fought match in the male category, Father O’Connell Science College clinched their third championship title, defeating Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, Yenagoa, Bayelsa, with a final score of 66–64. This latest victory cements their position as one of the most successful teams in the tournament’s history.
In the female category, Government Secondary School, Karu, FCT, delivered a commanding performance, defeating Lanreleke Sports Academy, Ile-Ogbo, Osun State, with a 55–42 win to claim their first-ever national championship title. The victory is especially significant, as the team had previously finished in second place on three separate occasions, making this long-awaited triumph a defining milestone in their journey.
Speaking on behalf of Wassim El-Husseini, Managing Director and CEO of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Boladale Odunlami, Commercial Manager, commended the athletes and applauded the coaches for their dedication to nurturing young talent. He also reaffirmed Nestlé’s purpose behind the MILO Basketball Championship.
“For 25 years, we’ve stayed true to our belief in growing champions through sport.
The MILO Basketball Championship has supported hundreds of thousands of young athletes, some of whom have gone on to play on the international stage and earn scholarships.
Take Rueben Abuchi, now at the University of Florida, an NCAA National Champion with the Florida Gators, or Murjanatu Musa, recently drafted into the WNBA and currently playing for the Phoenix Mercury. They started with MILO, and they soared. But this isn’t just about creating stars on the court, it’s about building champions in life. That’s why we remain committed, not just as sponsors, but as partners in purpose,” he said.
Ifeanyichukwu Orabuche, Category Manager, Beverages, added “This championship has become a powerful symbol of the MILO basketball championship empowering boys and girls across Nigeria to discover their strength, showcase their talent, and unlock their full potential. We’re not just crowning new champions; we’re marking 25 years of transformation, purpose, and impact. Because every child who steps onto a MILO basketball court isn’t just playing a game, they are building the mindset, discipline, and resilience to win in life”
This year’s tournament included an inclusive match for young individuals with disabilities, highlighting the championship’s commitment to inclusivity and Nestlé’s dedication to ensuring that everyone can participate and thrive.
Both winning teams received trophies, cash prizes, full basketball kits, and MILO products. Their victory at this landmark 25th edition makes them part of the long history of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots youth basketball platform.
Now celebrating 25 years of impact, the MILO Basketball Championship continues to be a key youth program, showing Nestlé Nigeria’s commitment to building talent, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and developing future champions, both on and off the court.
