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Intel unveils technology plans to turn around African fortunes

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Intel unveils technology plans to turn around African fortunes

Intel unveils technology plans to turn around African fortunes

By: Michael Mike

Intel and AfriLabs have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to bring artificial Intelligence (AI) into Africa to turn around the continent’s fortunes.

Speaking at a ceremony in Abuja during the week where the MOU was signed, the CEO of Intel, Pat Gelsinger said it is investing in four “superpowers”: Cloud, 5G and Broadband Connectivity, AI, and the intelligent and autonomous edge, on the continent.

Director Government Affairs Africa and EMEA CTO Liaison, Intel Corporation Dr. Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo, speaking while delivering a closing remarks after the signing of collaboration agreement said, the high technology ‘superpowers’ are coming in an era where all the data that are generated by retail stores, hospitals, manufacturing plants, and even cars must be moved, stored, and processed faster and more securely than ever.

“As Intel looks ahead to the next decade, our ambitions and opportunities have never been greater to unleash the power of data and help advance integrated corporate responsibility strategies in which companies use collaborative models  to drive increased value creation and societal impact. 

He said: “Technology will play a critical role in building a digital future that is equitable, accessible, and inclusive for all. That is why Intel launched its new RISE strategy and 2030 goals.”

He said through the strategy Intel is striving to create a more responsible, inclusive, and sustainable future, enabled through its technology and the expertise and passion of its employees. 

He further explained that the RISE strategy, is aimed at making technology fully inclusive and expanding digital readiness which is a new concept in the context of rapid digitalization of the global economy. 

He said: “Digital Readiness encompasses the technical and social skills to use emerging technology, a deep trust in these technologies, and the ability of people to use technologies responsibly and effectively for broader socio-economic benefits.

“Intel is committed to taking the program to 30 countries, enabling access to 30 thousand institution partners, and training 30 million people for current and future jobs by 2030 with the support of government and academia.

“Intel has rolled out the Intel Digital Readiness Program, which aims to empower the wider non-techie audiences with the appropriate digital skillsets, mindsets, toolsets, and opportunity to use technology responsibly in the AI-fueled world.”

Soglo said the purpose of Intel is to create world-changing technology that improves the life  of every person on the planet, revealing that the programme includes, Digital Readiness For Leaders which is to empower government leaders on emerging technologies such as AI, Cloud, 5G connectivity and Intelligent Edge including IOT and Cybersecurity to drive informed policymaking, AI For Citizens to develop awareness and understanding of AI among the public.

He added that also includes is AI For Youth Programme which is to empower school students to learn and apply AI tech and social skills for real world problem solving; AI For Future Workforce is aimed at empowering future workforce from technical /vocational schools with necessary AI skills for employability in the digital economy; AI For Current Workforce is to upskill and reskill members of the current workforce such as that of SMEs for immediate work impact.

He said: “In addition, Intel has developed several other programmes and initiatives to accelerate digitization globally in the areathe Intel’s Skills For Innovation programme supports educators in leading the transformation of education and preparing students for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. 

Also Read: There are many tangible achievements under President…

Other programmes, according to Soglo include the Intel Partner Alliance programme which offers exclusive resources for AI, cloud, high performance computing, and other solution areas to help plan, build, and deliver more customer value.

“And the Intel Developer Zone provides the official source for developing on Intel Hardware and software where you will be able to explore our most popular development areas and resources.

“Intel Ignite, which is our Intel’s Startup Growth Program; and the Intel Ignite OneAPI for Startups program which is targeting the global start-up ecosystem.

He said Intel looks forward to contributing to the development of the deep tech startups ecosystem as well as working with the entire African Startups ecosystem and all the stakeholders.

“It is an honour for Intel to have the opportunity to contribute to AfriLabs effort in supporting the innovation ecosystem in Africa as well as provide soft landings to international partners.

“At Intel our purpose is to create world-changing technology that improves the life of every person on the planet. 

“Intel put silicon in Silicon Valley and for more than 50 years, Intel and our people have had a profound influence on the world, driving business and society forward by creating radical innovation that Revolutionizes the way we live.

Intel unveils technology plans to turn around African fortunes

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Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

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Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

By: Our Reporter

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other African leaders in Daura, Katsina State, for the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, 13 July 2025, in a London hospital.

Earlier in the day, President Tinubu received the remains of the former President at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina, where he inspected a military guard of honour before the Nigerian Air Force jet conveying the casket arrived at 1:51 p.m.

The casket, draped in the Nigerian flag, was conveyed by a senior military pallbearer team led by Major General Mike Alechenu, and wheeled in a solemn procession to the hymn “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” flanked by a full military guard of honour.

Vice President Shettima had accompanied the body of the late President from London, alongside the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the late President’s widow, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, and close family members.

Upon arrival in Daura, the remains of President Buhari were received by a large crowd of mourners chanting praises of Allah and offering prayers for his soul. The body was later interred at his private residence in a ceremony attended by a cross-section of dignitaries and ordinary citizens alike.

President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima were joined at the burial by former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, Prime Minister of Niger Republic Ali Lamine Zeine, and former President of Niger Issoufou Mahamadou. Also in attendance were governors, ministers, service chiefs, former governors, captains of industry, Islamic clerics, and representatives from across the continent, including an envoy of the President of Chad.

Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

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Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

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Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

By: Michael Michael

Nigeria’s leading microfinance institution, Accion Microfinance Bank (MfB) has launched AccionMonie, a transformative digital financial services platform designed to empower individuals, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and low-income households.

A statement on Tuesday said through AccionMonie, the microfinance bank is expanding digital capabilities for financial
access and empowerment across the spectrum of underserved individuals and businesses. The user-friendly platform offers instant access to essential services, including loans, savings, capital,
and other forms of support.

It started that the launch of AccionMonie is a key part of the bank’s “Always there to lend you a hand” campaign, which reinforces its long-standing commitment to small business growth and the
welfare of low-income households. The campaign positions Accion MFB not just as a financial provider but as a trusted partner in its customers’ journey towards business success and economic empowerment.

In Nigeria, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are one of the key growth drivers of the economy. Estimated at about 37 million, MSMEs currently account for 86 per cent of employment and 48 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

However, despite their strong
potential, the MSMEs continue to be impacted by existential challenges, notably access to capital and finance, infrastructure and an enabling business environment.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Accion MfB, Taiwo Joda, described the launch of
AccionMonie as an important milestone and a testament to the bank’s culture of innovation; one that ensures its products and offerings continue to reflect the evolving needs of its customers.

He said: “At Accion Microfinance Bank, we believe in the potential of every MSME to drive inclusive economic growth. That is why we are committed to empowering them with the financial support they need to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.”

On his part, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of the bank, Stephen Olalere, stated that AccionMonie and the combination of the bank’s extensive network of over 74 branches in 12 states will address the persistent challenge of limited access to financial services faced by many small businesses in Nigeria. He added that the platform’s user-friendly features will simplify payments and offer much-needed support for both businesses and individuals.

The Chief Digital Officer of the bank,
Paul Ehiagbonare, said this is a bold move towards digital leadership, maturity and excellence. He stated that: “For us, AccionMonie is a reflection of the much needed customer empowerment through digital tools and technologies. We are not only providing access to finance but standing beside our customers as partners, supporting their ambitions when others
may not and doing so timely and more efficiently. Our goal is to be a reliable ally on their journey toward growth, stability, and long-term success.”

He stated that AccionMonie offers a range of customer-focused features designed to promote financial inclusion and empower users. One of its unique offerings is Save2Loan, which allows customers
to save between N50,000 and N250,000 over 90 days and qualify for a loan worth twice their savings. He noted that this feature is expected to encourage a stronger culture of saving while expanding access to credit.

He explained that customers can also fund their AccionMonie accounts directly using any debit card, which is an easy, seamless process that eliminates the need for long queues at banking halls. Another key
feature is the targeted saving option and locked savings, which helps users plan and save for long-term goals such as tuition, rent, or investment while earning competitive interest.

He noted that customers can also earn for referring others, adding that account management features include on demand
bank statement, account upgrade features, secure access, transfer limit management amongst others.

The AccionMonie app is now available for download on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or directly via this link: https://onelink.to/57z27p.

Accion Microfinance Bank has been in operation for over 16 years and is a pioneer in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, providing innovative financial solutions. The bank’s long history of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses has greatly contributed to economic growth and
development.

The bank has solid shareholder investments from three major banks – Ecobank, Zenith Bank and Citi Bank – as well as International Finance Corporation, a World Bank member, and Accion Investments, all of which contribute to its strong financial base and allow it to serve an ever-increasing number of customers.

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

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Buhari’s Passing: FG Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Honour Deceased Ex-President

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Buhari’s Passing: FG Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Honour Deceased Ex-President

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, 15 July, 2025, as a Public Holiday in honour of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

This is in futherance to the seven days of National mourning declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on Monday on behalf of the Federal Government, following the approval of President Bola Tinubu.

The Minister, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, stated that the holiday is a mark of respect for the late President’s service to the nation, his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, and his enduring legacy in governance and national development.

He said: “President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation. This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld.”

He urged citizens to use the day to honour the late President’s memory by promoting peace, patriotism, and national cohesion, in line with his vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria.

He noted that as earlier announced, the National flags are to fly at half mast for the seven days of mourning period from Sunday 13th July, 2025.

The Federal Government extends deepest condolences to the family of the late President, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
End

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