The ceremony, which was held at Stanbic IBTC’s Head Office in Lagos, brought together programme graduates, incoming cohort members and senior executives of the organisation.

Chuma Nwokocha, chief executive, Stanbic IBTC Holdings presented certificates to the DiSEP 4.0 graduates, commending their dedication and the transformative journey during the ceremony; emphasising the impact that the programme will have on their professional development and career opportunities.

DiSEP, a flagship corporate social responsibility initiative of Stanbic IBTC, equips young Nigerians with relevant digital and employability skills, bridging the gap between academic training and the requirements of the modern workplace.

The newly inducted DiSEP 5.0 cohort will run until March 2026 and places greater emphasis on gender inclusion by actively bringing more women into the programme, while also encouraging stronger participation from Northern Nigeria to ensure broader national impact.

Successful participants will gain advanced, industry-relevant competencies in high-demand technical areas including Kubernetes, .NET Core, C#, Software Testing and Automation, DevOps, and Java.

These skills provide direct pathways to rewarding careers in software engineering, cloud infrastructure, quality assurance, and modern application development both within Stanbic IBTC and across the wider technology and financial services sectors.

During the event, Ezinne Chidi Anosike, country head, People & Culture, Stanbic IBTC Holdings, announced the establishment of the DiSEP Alumni Network, a structured platform designed to foster continuous engagement, mentorship, and career support for all current and former participants of the programme.

A highlight of the event was the inspiring speech delivered by Hannah Ochim, a DiSEP 2.0 alumna, now an employee of Stanbic IBTC. Sharing her personal journey from participant to professional, Hannah spoke passionately about how the programme equipped her with practical digital skills, boosted her confidence, and ultimately opened the door to a rewarding career in financial services.

“DiSEP did not just teach me technical skills; it transformed the way I see opportunities and my own potential,” Hannah said. “Today, I stand here as proof that this programme changes lives. To the new cohort, embrace every moment; your future starts now.”

The Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Holdings, reaffirmed the organisation’s long-term commitment to youth development and digital inclusion, stating:

“At Stanbic IBTC, we believe that empowering the next generation with relevant skills is fundamental to Nigeria’s growth. DiSEP is more than a training programme; it is a movement that creates sustainable careers and drives innovation. We are proud of every graduate and excited to welcome the DiSEP 5.0 participants into this life-changing journey.”

Since its inception, DiSEP has successfully trained and empowered over 800 Nigerian youths, with many alumni securing employment in leading organisations, including Stanbic IBTC. The programme continues to attract strong commendation for its hands-on curriculum, expert facilitation, and clear focus on employability.

With the commencement of DiSEP 5.0, Stanbic IBTC reinforces its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s digital future by empowering young people with the skills, networks and opportunities needed to thrive in our economy.

Focusing on foundational knowledge and skills in Kubernetes and the wider cloud-native ecosystem, the collaboration aims to train 20,000 to 30,000 individuals over the next two to three years. 

Participants of the free training will have the opportunity to prepare for the Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) and Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD) certifications, which are recognized industry credentials.

“This partnership showcases the global impact of CNCF’s education programs. By standardizing cloud native knowledge, developers across the globe can confidently work toward certifications that will enable them to land developer positions both within their own countries and globally,” said Chris Aniszczyk, CTO at the CNCF. 

“By partnering with Andela, which has a long history of training technologists in Africa, we see great opportunity in providing our training to communities that may otherwise not have access. Together, we can create a win-win for companies that need workers and workers that need opportunities.”

According to Google’s Africa Developer Ecosystem Report 2021, the increased global demand for remote tech talent, which was accelerated by the pandemic, created more remote employment opportunities for African developers.

Now, 38% of African software developers work for at least one company based outside the continent.

”We are excited to partner with CNCF to extend training and, ultimately, enhance job opportunities for African workers. The continent is emerging as one of the most important markets in the world. It has the fastest-growing population of developers, and its young workforce will be key to solving the tech talent shortage,” said Carrol Chang, Andela CEO. 

“Organizations are looking for talent with advanced skill sets like AI and cloud-native, and this particular skill set is a perfect addition to the Andela marketplace.”

Training participants will take six to nine months to achieve the KCNA and CKAD certifications and will be selected from Andela’s talent marketplace, which includes 150,000 technology professionals globally, with a large percentage from Africa. 

Andela’s talent marketplace in Africa spans 49 countries, including Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana. 

The company fosters an active community for marketplace participants and has worked with numerous companies, including Google, Meta, Microsoft, AWS, and Nvidia, to train talent in technologies that offer vast workplace opportunities.

The need for cloud-native developers continues to increase and a recent study by CNCF revealed that almost 55% of developers landed a new job as a result of training and certification courses. 

Almost 7 in 10 (67%) said it made them feel more engaged and fulfilled in their work. However, 8 in 10 (81%) also said cost prevented them from completing certifications. 

“As a non-profit focused on growing open source and cultivating the IT talent needed to sustain it, partnerships – like this one with Andela – help us train and certify underrepresented groups, which is crucial to both our long-term success and amplify our impact,” said Clyde Seepersad, senior vice president and general manager of Linux Foundation Education.

The success of fintech is hugely linked to the growing digitalisation. Several fintechs offer software products as their main or complementary services.

Therefore, it is vital to have a strong backend technology to provide the necessary infrastructure for fintech platform functionality.

The backend handles the server-side operations of web applications that are not visible to the user.

This is crucial for app functionality, encompassing server setup and maintenance, database management, API integration and strict data security.

Given the complexity of functions of the backend development, it is obvious that securely and competently handling and storing financial data should be core in any fintech company.

Some common backend frameworks include Express.js (Node.js), Django (Python), Flask (Python), Ruby on Rails (Ruby), Laravel (PHP), Spring Boot (Java),  and ASP.NET Core (C).

While there are several backend frameworks, fintech needs to analyse the challenges and difficulties of their backend before choosing one that best suits them.

This article will guide you on which framework, between Django, Spring Boot, and Express.js, is best for setting up your fintech backend technologies.

Table of Content

1. Django, Spring Boot and Express.js Frameworks: A Closer Look
2. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Backend Framework
3. Final Note

Django, Spring Boot and Express.js Frameworks: A Closer Look

Django

Django is a high-level Python web framework released in 2005. It is the most popular backend framework and an open-source framework that is scalable and customisable. It contains everything that a developer may require. The framework excels in rapid development and clean and pragmatic design. This makes it a popular choice for building scalable, secure web applications.

Features:

• Scalability: Django is designed to grow with your project. It allows you to scale up your app as required.
• Ease of Use: Dajngo is designed to make developers’ lives easier through several built-in tools for common tasks such as creating admin panels, managing website layouts, and handling databases.
• Performance: Django is quick to start with and can keep your app running fast, especially when it gets big.
• Compatibility: Django works closely with Python tools and cloud services. It prefers SQL databases like PostgreSQL. Django is not suitable for languages like Javascript.

Advantages

• Offers extensive ecosystem and community support
• Django features strong security that helps prevent web vulnerabilities and handle sensitive data.
• It offers a built-in, user-friendly admin interface for easy content management.
• It is versatile and can be used to build various types of applications.

Disadvantages

• The monolithic design structure makes it unsuitable for microservices-based projects.

Spring Boot

Spring Boot is an open-source and lightweight Java-based framework released in 2014. It contains a spring core container, which is a module providing containers., It is used for creating stand-alone applications.

Spring Boot offers extensions for creating web applications and renders configurable security methods. Its useful functionalities include transaction management, monitoring, caching and security.  Unlike Django, Spring Boot offers microservices.

Features:

• Scalability: Spring Boot is a great option for making apps that grow. It uses Java, which makes it easier to break apps into smaller parts that can be improved separately.
• Ease of Use: Spring Boot sets up a lot of things, making starting a project a lot easier. It offers a lot of guides and help that makes it easier to use.
• Performance: Spring Boot includes several features that make working with it better. With the right adjustment, it handles a lot of work efficiently.
• Compatibility: Spring Boot needs Java 8 or newer to work with main servers and databases like MySQL and MongoDB. It is great for building apps that run on cloud platforms like AWS and Azure.

Advantages

• Spring Boot allows developers to create applications quickly with fewer configurations.
• Offers support for microservices architecture
• It is ideal for enterprise-grade applications

Disadvantages

• It requires knowledge of Java and the Spring ecosystem
• It has a steeper learning curve
• As an enterprise-level framework, it may add some overhead in the interim of file size.

Express.js

Express.js is a minimalistic and flexible Node.js framework. Released in 2010, Express is written in JavaScript, which supports REST API applications.  It is known for its speed and simplicity and is used for building interactive mobile and web applications. Express.js allows for the creation of single-page, multi-page and hybrid pages. It integrates with NoSQL, MongoDB and Node.js.

Features:

• Scalability: js can handle growing pretty well because it’s built on Node.js. Adding Redis, for instance, can enhance Express by taking the pressure off your database.
• Ease of Use: Express is easy to use for developers familiar with Node.js. This makes setting up the basics, like routes and templates, really simple.
• Performance: js handles tasks efficiently due to Node.js and can be used to keep things speedy due to its simple design. Quick and efficient apps can be built right from the start.
• Compatibility: js works on Node.js, which makes it run on any database that Node.js works with, such as MongoDB and PostgreSQL. It works well with cloud platforms like AWS and Azure.

Advantages

• It is fast and lightweight, making it ideal for building high-performance applications.
• It offers an extensive ecosystem of middleware and Node.js packages for added functionality like handling HTTP requests and parsing data.

Disadvantages

• The asynchronous programming with callbacks can lead to complex code structures.
• Express is lightweight and requires additional packages for certain functionalities.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Backend Framework

It is essential to know what tasks are attributed to backend technologies, the project requirements, the complexity of the application, the development expertise, programming language familiarity, and team skills. This understanding forms your decision-making processes.

The major areas of backend technologies in fintech include data management, security, API development, server-side logic, integration, deployment and CI/CO, monitoring and maintenance, error handling and logging, performance optimization,  and compliance and regulations.

Therefore, to achieve the above efficiently, you must assess:

• Project requirement and complexity: A robust and scalable backend framework is required for complex business logic, high traffic and intricate data manipulation. For small projects or minimum viable projects (MVPs), lightweight frameworks such as Express.js (Node.js) are ideal. At the same time, Django (Python) or Spring Boot (Java) are best for more extensive and large-scale applications.
• Performance, Speed and Scalability: Frameworks that can scale to accommodate many users and offer real-time features without bogging down include Django. A framework like Express.js is known for high performance, and it is ideal for heavy use without slowing down.
• Language Familiarity and Team Skills: Your team’s familiarity with a particular framework should be considered. If your team is familiar with Javascript, you should consider Express.js, which allows full-stack Javascript development. If Java is your team’s language, Spring Boot offers a robust framework. While Django is a go-to framework if your team prefers Python.
• Security Features: Security remains a key part of fintech and backend development. For instance, Django is known for its robust security features, making it a top choice for security-focused projects.
• Regulatory compliance: Choose a framework that is relevant to financial regulations.
• Compatibility: Any chosen framework must work well with other tools and technology you are already using. Node.js framework (Express.js) works well with Lambda.

Final note…

Choosing a backend technology for fintech is a crucial part and should be made through careful consideration. The project requirements should form the decision-making process, including other significant factors. Any chosen framework must align with the business objectives and needs for both the short and long term.

About Olufemi Titlayo Samuel

[Featured Image Credit: Emile-perron/Unsplash]

In today’s technology world, the reliance on open-source has become a mixed blessing. While these components enable innovation and mitigate development costs, they also allow potential vulnerabilities that can jeopardise the security and integrity of software solutions.

As a Senior Software Developer renowned for my role in this domain, I have been at the forefront of addressing these difficulties.

With over years of experience, I have seen the intricacies of the software supply chain directly. I understand that the integration of open-source libraries and frameworks is indispensable for modern software development. However, she also recognizes that this convenience comes with significant risks. Patricia’s approach to securing the software supply chain is multifaceted, combining rigorous security practices with innovative solutions.

One of my favourite techniques entails conducting robust audits of open source dependencies.

By meticulously examining the source code of these components, she identifies potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors. This proactive technique allows me to identify security issues before they can be leveraged in attacks.

My audits are not subjected to the initial integration of open-source components; I ensure continuous monitoring and periodic reviews to keep up with new vulnerabilities and updates.

I  advocate for the integration of advanced technologies to promote security of the software supply chain. I led the development and implementation of advanced dependency management tools that automatically detect and remediate vulnerabilities.

These tools leverage machine learning algorithms to analyse vast repositories of open-source code, providing real-time alerts and suggestions for secure alternatives. By automating these processes, I have significantly reduced the burden on developers, allowing them to focus on building robust and innovative software.

Another aspect I specialise in is promoting a culture of awareness within the development teams. I discussed further about the importance of training developers to notice and address security issues in open source dependencies. Through mediums such as seminars, and hands-on experience, I have equipped her colleagues with the knowledge and skills necessary to secure their code effectively. Her efforts have led to a noticeable improvement in the security posture of the projects she has been involved in, with fewer vulnerabilities making their way into production environments.

Beyond my technical contributions, I support  increased collaboration and transparency within the open source community. I am deeply committed to open source projects, offering not only codes but also security enhancement and best practices.

In a global world where cyber threats are becoming increasingly solid, my efforts to secure software supply chains are more crucial than ever.

My approach consists of intense audit. Automated tools, community partnership and developer training has set a new yardstick in addressing vulnerabilities in open source dependencies. As a Senior software developer, I am at the front role of making sure security and integrity of software products leaves an enduring legacy in the industry, motivating others to emulate my journey.

Meet Patricia Akinkuade: 

Patricia Akinkuade is a seasoned software engineering specialist with a demonstrated history of impactful contributions in the manufacturing, oil, and fintech industries. Her technical proficiency spans an impressive array of technologies, including C#, VB, Microsoft SQL, TFS, Azure, Jira, Confluence, Blazor, Docker, Kubernetes, .Net,  amongst others. Patricia’s expertise in software engineering has consistently driven innovative solutions and enhanced operational efficiencies across various sectors. Her leadership in implementing data-driven strategies and cutting-edge technologies has positioned her as a pivotal force in digital transformation, ensuring robust and scalable software solutions that meet the dynamic needs of modern enterprises.

In today’s digital landscape, systems and applications are the backbone of businesses. Hence, ensuring uninterrupted service availability and minimal downtime is paramount. 

This is where the role of a DevOps engineer becomes crucial. With their expertise in system architecture, automation, and continuous monitoring, DevOps engineers play a vital role in building resilient systems that can withstand faults and recover quickly in the face of disasters. 

This article, therefore, explores the key principles and strategies that DevOps engineers employ to achieve fault tolerance and disaster recovery in their systems.

Designing for Fault Tolerance:

DevOps engineers approach system design with fault tolerance in mind, aiming to eliminate single points of failure and minimise the impact of potential faults. They employ various techniques such as redundancy, failover mechanisms, and load balancing to distribute the workload and ensure system availability. By designing systems that can automatically adapt to failures, DevOps engineers enable applications to continue running seamlessly even when specific components experience issues.

Implementing Automated Monitoring and Alerting:

To maintain resilience, DevOps engineers rely on robust monitoring and alerting systems. By implementing automated monitoring tools, they can proactively detect anomalies, performance bottlenecks, and potential failures. These tools enable them to track system health metrics, identify critical thresholds, and trigger alerts to address issues before they escalate. By leveraging real-time insights, DevOps engineers can swiftly respond to incidents, minimize downtime, and ensure the reliability of their systems.

Building Scalable Infrastructure:

Scalability is a fundamental aspect of building resilient systems. DevOps engineers focus on designing and implementing infrastructure that can handle varying workloads and accommodate sudden spikes in traffic. They leverage cloud technologies, containerization, and auto-scaling mechanisms to dynamically adjust resources based on demand. This approach enables systems to scale horizontally or vertically, ensuring smooth operation even during peak periods and preventing performance degradation.

Creating Robust Backup and Recovery Mechanisms:

Disasters can strike at any time, ranging from hardware failures to natural disasters. DevOps engineers implement robust backup and recovery mechanisms to safeguard critical data and facilitate swift recovery. They employ strategies such as regular data backups, replication, and distributed storage systems to ensure data integrity and availability. Furthermore, they conduct frequent disaster recovery drills and test their recovery processes to guarantee the effectiveness of their contingency plans.

Embracing Continuous Integration and Deployment:

DevOps engineers advocate for continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD) practices, which enable rapid and iterative development while maintaining system stability. By automating the build, testing, and deployment processes, they reduce the risk of introducing faults and enhance the speed of delivering updates. With the ability to roll back changes quickly, DevOps engineers can address issues promptly and ensure minimal disruption to users.

Building resilient systems is an essential aspect of modern software engineering, and DevOps engineers play a crucial role in achieving fault tolerance and disaster recovery. Through careful system design, automated monitoring, scalability, robust backup mechanisms, and embracing CI/CD practices, DevOps engineers empower organisations to maintain uninterrupted service and recover swiftly from potential disasters. 

By adopting these principles and strategies, businesses can enhance their resilience, protect their reputation, and ensure customer satisfaction in an increasingly interconnected and fast-paced digital world.

About the writer:

Toluwaleke Ariyo is a highly skilled DevOps and Backend Engineer with a strong track record of building scalable applications. With expertise in technologies such as Kubernetes, Ansible, Terraform, AWS, Python, Django, and Flask, Toluwaleke possesses a comprehensive understanding of the tools and frameworks necessary for modern software development. Having worked on diverse projects across different industries and continents, Toluwaleke brings a global perspective and a wealth of experience to every endeavor