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 organisers of the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards are proud to announce that Mr. Udeme Ufot, MFR, Group Chief Executive Officer of SO&U Limited, will serve as Chairman of the 2025 edition of the highly anticipated summit and awards ceremony.

The event is scheduled to take place on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Regency Hall, 1 Otunba Jobi-Fele Way, Central Business District, Alausa-Ikeja, Lagos. The theme for the event is, “Advancing Nigeria’s Marketing Ecosystem to Drive Brand Growth.”

With a legacy spanning over three decades, Mr. Ufot is one of the most revered figures in Africa’s advertising and branding landscape. He has led numerous groundbreaking campaigns and helped shape industry standards through visionary leadership and purpose-driven innovation. His role as Chairman further underscores the summit’s dedication to advancing thought leadership and brand excellence in Nigeria and across the continent.

Speaking on the appointment, Lukman Ishau, Publisher of Marketing Space Magazine and Convener of the Brand Handlers Summit, highlighted the deep symbolic and strategic significance of Mr. Ufot’s leadership.

“When we envisioned that the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards has to be steered by someone whose journey reflects the core of what branding truly is; values, vision, and voice, Mr. Udeme Ufot immediately came to mind. He is not only a leader; he is a legacy. His works have shaped how brands are perceived, how stories are told, and how agencies align with purpose. He represents the gold standard, and having him as Chair for the event is both an honour and a symbol of what this platform stands for.”

“Bringing Mr. Udeme Ufot on board as Chairman for the 2025 Summit was not just a strategic decision, but a statement. A statement about excellence, depth, and industry evolution. Mr. Ufot’s career is a textbook of leadership, innovation, and commitment to African excellence in branding,” Ishau added.

He noted that, ‘’The summit will spotlight the urgent need to strengthen Nigeria’s marketing value chain, from education to execution, from strategy to storytelling. The focus will be on empowering professionals, inspiring fresh thinking, and bridging the gap between global trends and local relevance.’’

The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards is designed to be one of Nigeria’s foremost gatherings of marketing minds and brand custodians, offering networking opportunities, knowledge exchange, and a platform for spotlighting excellence in the marketing and communications industry.

As the countdown to August 29 begins, anticipation is building across the marketing, media, and creative landscapes. The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards 2025 promises to be more than an event, it will be a transformational experience that sets the tone for the future of brand development in Nigeria.

The organisers have extended a warm invitation to brand custodians, agency leaders, marketing professionals, aspiring students, policymakers, and visionary entrepreneurs to participate in this landmark event. It will be a dynamic gathering where industry players unite to ignite bold conversations, unlock new opportunities, and collectively shape a marketing ecosystem that drives lasting brand growth and national impact.

 

When we began the Repression of Widowhood campaign, it wasn’t about awards, it was about dignity. About restoring voices that have been silenced, about standing for widows in society, often forgotten, and left behind.

 

In Nigeria, over 15 million women are widows, with a huge proportion classified as underprivileged / disadvantaged widows. Many face abuse, exclusion, neglected or accused of killing their husbands. Some are thrown out of their homes, whereas most are left to survive alone with children to care for and no one to care for them.

 

That’s where we stepped in.

 

What started as a podcast to educate widows on their legal rights became a national movement. From online awareness to real-life action, we mobilized a Walkathon that inspired everyday Nigerians to walk in solidarity. We weren’t just raising voices—we were raising support to echo the pain of disadvantaged widows.

 

But awareness was never enough. We listened to the cries behind the silence. And we acted.

 

With the help of five FMCG brands, we delivered:

 

Food relief and healthcare to 412 widows across Lagos, Ogun, and Anambra

Seed funding and financial empowerment for over 20 women to start their own businesses

Free healthcare for 202 widows

169 children back in school

Seven impactful podcast episodes reaching over 51,000 listeners

A sustainable skill-building initiative, Art Piece of Hope, teaching widows tie & dye fabric making for long-term income

 

These are not just numbers, they are stories of resilience

 

This campaign gave them more than resources gave them back hope, dignity, and a future.

 

And then came the win.

 

At the Pitcher Awards 2025, The Repression of Widowhood was honored with:

 

🏆 Silver for Societal Impact in Effectiveness Category – This category celebrates the measurable impact of creative work. Entries in the Societal Impact subcategory demonstrate how the campaign drove tangible results, was instrumental to cultural change, social change, environmental change or was integral to achieving a brand’s purpose.

 

🏆 Bronze for Non-Profit Organizations in Pitcher for Good Category – This subcategory recognizes communication or initiative that addresses social or environmental issues created by non-profit organizations or a partnership between a for-profit organization and non-profit organization.

 

A proud moment for the CBA Foundation, digitXplus, and for every widow whose life was touched.

“This recognition is for every woman who thought her story had ended. It’s a reminder that we see you, we hear you, and we will keep fighting for you.”

Chinwe Bode Akinwande, Founder – CBA Foundation

 

“It’s not every day you get to be in the forefront of a vision that truly changes lives. We’re proud of this win, but even prouder of the impact.”

Damilola Popoola, Head of Strategy – digitXplus

This wasn’t just a campaign, it was a commitment to justice. to humanity. to lasting change. And we’re not stopping here. We’re walking for hope—until every widow stands tall again.

 

 

 

By Winifred Bosa

Seasoned marketing professional and CEO, Managing Partner, Open Squares Africa, Feyi Olubodun, will deliver the keynote address at the 3rd edition of MediaConsortium Conference (MCCA) on Thursday, September 18, 2025.

The conference with the theme: “DEFINING VALUE IN THE MODERN MARKET: BEYOND PRICE, QUALITY, EXPERIENCE AND ETHICS”, will hold at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos by 10am.

Olubodun, is a sought after speaker and experienced brand builder with several years of experience of building and managing top brands. He was the former Chief Executive at InsightPublicis, and will be bringing his experience to bear in his paper on the theme.

According to the organiser, MediaConsortium Conference, the concept of “value” is no longer confined to the traditional pillars of price, quality, experience, and ethics, in the ever-evolving global marketplace. While these elements remain essential, today’s discerning consumers, investors, and stakeholders demand a more nuanced and multidimensional interpretation of value. To stay relevant and competitive, brands must redefine what value truly means in the modern age.

The event will pull industry stakeholders and allied sectors in an engaging and impactful sections with the aim to stimulate consumer/brand engagement.

A list of marketing communications experts have confirmed their participation to discuss Olubodun’s paper. Among them are Obinna Ojekwe, Marketing Lead, Hydrogen, Yinka Femi Opadere, Head, Online Media, Globacom and Samuel Akinrimisi, New Product Development Lead, EKo Supreme Resources Nig. Limited.

The MediaConsortium Conference, hosted by MediaConsortium, a leading brands, business, and marketing publication, aims to facilitate engagement among stakeholders in the IMC and related sectors to address pertinent issues.

This year’s event follows the successful maiden edition held in 2023 at the Sheraton Hotels and Suites, Ikeja and a second edition held at the LCCI, Ikeja.

 

To flag off its 20th anniversary celebrations, Nitro 121 took a creative drive outside the boardroom and into the classroom, sparking inspiration in the next generation of creators.

 

On May 29, 2025, the marketing communications company hosted a one-day creative immersion for students of Victory Grammar School and Victory High School, Ikeja, with the theme “Fuelling Future Creatives.”

 

The CSR initiative was designed to equip senior secondary students with relevant, real-world creative skills such as Graphics Designing, Video editing, as well as AI for content creation.

 

The sessions were hands-on and led by Nitro121 talents- Creative Director,

Chamberlin Ukenedo; Digital content writer, Faith Ekekwe; Copywriter, Kedonojo Williams, and Brand Strategist- Favour Alilu.

 

In his opening remarks, Managing Director/CEO of Nitro 121 Ltd., Lampe Omoyele encouraged the students to make good use of the opportunity as creativity is needed in every facet of life. He noted that every human being has the gift of creativity which is why Nitro 121, in celebration of its 20th Anniversary organized the event to fuel their creativity as future leaders.

 

Moderated by Nitro 121’s CSR Lead, Kehinde Adollo, the event excellently delivered on what it was set out to achieve- Fuelling future creatives.

 

At the end, each student received a certificate of participation, signalling the commencement of their creative journey.

 

In response, Principal of Victory Grammar School, Mrs Adeyinka Afolayan, applauded Nitro 121 for putting together such an excellent training, while emphasizing the uniqueness of the training modules as well as the stationery provided for the students and teachers.

 

‘Fuelling Future Creatives’ is one of many activities lined up to mark Nitro 121’s 20 years of igniting ideas and shaping brands.

Leading telecommunications provider, Airtel Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability with a nationwide campaign to combat plastic pollution in commemoration of World Environment Day 2025. Themed “Ending Plastic Pollution”, this year’s events demonstrated the corporate mission of Airtel to champion environmental stewardship.

Tagged #UnPlasticAfrica, the company’s campaign began on June 3, mobilizing employees across six operating regions for a week of education, advocacy, and cleanup activities aimed at promoting sustainable living, in alignment with global efforts to reduce plastic pollution.

The activities kicked off with a Sustainability Seminar, led by Dr Hassan A. Sanuth, Director of Sanitation Services at the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, and focused on the role of the individual in reducing plastic waste while promoting practical recycling habits.

Following this educational session, all Airtel Nigeria employees took the “Eco Pledge” to commit to reusable containers.

In his remarks at the seminar, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, reaffirmed Airtel`s dedication to sustainability.

“As we invest in Nigeria’s digital future, we are equally committed to protecting the environment that sustains us. From AI-powered services that reduce paper use to partnerships that connect rural areas without environmental disruption, we are embedding sustainability into every layer of our operations,” he said.

Speaking at the workshop, Dr. Sanuth emphasized the urgency of addressing the plastic pollution crisis, particularly in urban centers like Lagos.

“Plastic waste is choking our drains, polluting our water bodies, and threatening public health. Every little action counts, from individuals making conscious choices to organizations taking bold steps and together, our collective efforts can make a significant impact in ending plastic pollution,” he noted.

He also highlighted the dangers of plastic waste, noting that microplastics have been traced in food, water, and even human blood and called for stronger policies and corporate accountability.

The highlight of the week was a market clean-up and sensitization drive held by Airtel employees in Abuja, Oyo, Benin, Enugu, and Kano. Airtel staff volunteers, in collaboration with local partners, led plastic collection efforts, conducted environmental hygiene training, and distributed over 3,000 branded reusable bags and parasols to market vendors and shoppers.

The World Environment Day campaign, nicknamed Earth Fest 2025, is part of Airtel Nigeria’s broader CSR Strategy, which continues to integrate environmental stewardship into its organizational practices.

 

 

 

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited recently in Port Harcourt inaugurated 140 trainees for an intensive three-month Advanced Nigerian Content Human Capital Development (NC-HCD) Programme for the US$5 billion NLNG Train 7 Project on Bonny Island, Rivers State.

 

The trainees, who are graduates in different academic disciplines, had completed a 12-month Basic Training Programme in diverse oil-and-gas-industry-related skill sets and are now for the on-the-job phase which includes active hands-on participation in operational areas such as Turn Around Maintenance (TAM), Commissioning, and Desktop Programmes, among others.

In November 2024, a set of 331 trainees under Batch A of the NLNG T7 HCD Training Programme had begun capacity development in facility management, engineering, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Health Safety and Environment (HSE), Quality Assurance and Quality Control, as well as welding and fabrication.

Another set of 77 trainees under Batch B of the same Training Programme began capacity development in data analytics and supply chain management among several other fields relevant to the operations of the oil and gas industry.

Addressing the trainees and trainers drawn from the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN) as well as Management personnel of the NCDMB and NLNG, the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, said the Advanced NC-HCD training is more than a milestone, but an expression of the collective commitment of the Board and the NLNG “to nurturing world-class Nigerian professionals who will shape the future of our oil and gas industry.”

He said the Board has remained steadfast in its conviction that Human Capital Development is “a critical investment in the sustainability and competiveness” of Nigeria’s oil and gas value chain, pointing out that over 400 Nigerians have undergone basic training in diverse technical, vocational, and specialized areas and are equipped with practical skills directly aligned with industry needs.

According to the NCDMB boss, who was represented by the Manager, Human Capital Development, Mrs. Tarilate Teide-Bribena, the Board and NLNG are “advancing even further by formally launching the on-the-job component of the NLNG Train 7 NC-HCD Programme,” which would see 140 bright and promising Nigerians gain practical exposure and real-time experience across technical domains within the NLNG operational plants in Bonny Island.

He commended the NLNG, which he described as “a trusted and forward-looking partner in the development of [Nigeria’s] human capital base,” for its unwavering partnership, noting that the company has not only complied with Nigerian Content requirements but “has consistently shown leadership in embracing the spirit of national capacity building.”

Engr. Ogbe also acknowledged the critical role of OGTAN for being instrumental in aligning training content, delivery standards, and capacity development frameworks with the actual needs of the industry. The trainers, he noted, have helped to bridge the gap between training and employability – ensuring that trainees do not just learn but are ready to add value from day one.

In her own remarks, the General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development of the NLNG, Dr. Sophia Horsfall, expressed profound appreciation to the NCDMB for productive collaboration on the HCD Programme, which she described as “a reaffirmation of NLNG’s unwavering commitment to human capital development.”

She said the support of the NCDMB has enabled the NLNG to effectively carry out its programme for the development of a strong, skilled and highly professional workforce for the country’s oil and gas industry. The trainings, she noted, are particularly significant as the NLNG Train 7 Project, which involves very advanced technology, has reached 80 per cent completion, and highly skilled technical manpower would be required. Final Investment Decision on the project was signed in December 2019.

On what she described as “robust, advanced … on-the-job training programme,” Dr. Hosfall disclosed that the trainees would work within the facilities of the NLNG on Bonny Island.

 

In closing remarks, the Nigerian Content Manager of NLNG, Engr. Dagogo Buowari, thanked the NCDMB for the partnership between the two organisations, and expressed his belief that the industry would continue to benefit from their collective endeavours.

He advised trainees to get themselves organised for their three-month programme on Bonny Island, which begins on June 16, 2025, and to ensure they do not become distracted in the course of their training.