The training, held at the Staff Clinic Hall, Alausa, Ikeja, was themed “Cybersecurity in 2026: Defending Against Modern Threats in a Digital Workplace.”

It brought together personnel from multiple MDAs to improve their understanding of emerging cyber risks and modern security best practices.

The programme focused on key cybersecurity threats expected to shape the digital landscape in 2026. These included artificial intelligence-driven attacks, deepfake-enabled fraud, advanced phishing schemes, ransomware, identity theft, cloud security risks, and supply chain compromises.

Participants were taken through interactive lectures, scenario-based discussions, case studies, and practical sessions aimed at improving their ability to identify, prevent, and respond to cyber threats in the workplace.

Speaking during one of the sessions, Mr Olabanji Soledayo, Strategic Partnership manager and Cybersecurity Awareness evangelist at ESET Nigeria highlighted the growing importance of human awareness in combating sophisticated cyberattacks and safeguarding digital work environments.

He noted that individuals within organisations are a critical line of defence as attackers rely more on social engineering and identity-based tactics.

He also commended the Lagos State Government for its continued collaboration with ESET in strengthening cybersecurity capacity across its institutions.

Technical sessions at the training covered areas including email security, endpoint protection, ransomware defence, threat detection, and modern cybersecurity practices relevant to government institutions.

Speaking at the event, Mr Kadri Shamusideen, deputy director, Ministry of Science and Technology emphasized the importance of cybersecurity awareness as government services continue to undergo digital transformation.

He added that as government operations become increasingly digitised, cybersecurity awareness has become a critical component of public service delivery.

While technology provides the necessary security controls, our employees remain the first line of defence against cyber threats. Continuous education and awareness are therefore essential in ensuring that staff can identify emerging threats and respond appropriately.

Mr Kadri described the training as timely and relevant, noting that cyber threats continue to evolve in complexity and sophistication, commending the impressive turnout of participants and the support received from various MDAs across Lagos State.

According to him, strategic collaboration between government institutions and cybersecurity industry leaders remains critical to strengthening national cyber resilience.

ESET Nigeria noted that the programme forms part of its broader commitment to helping organisations across Nigeria improve cyber resilience through awareness, education, and advanced cybersecurity solutions.

The company noted that as cybercriminals increasingly adopt artificial intelligence, social engineering techniques, and identity-based attacks, employee awareness remains one of the most effective defences against modern cyber threats.

Against this backdrop, Arista Networks, a global cloud networking company, in partnership with MART Networks and Resourcery Plc, hosted “Efficiency Meets Performance – The Arista Advantage” on Tuesday at the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel.

The event brought together telecom operators, financial institutions, and other technology experts, to discuss how to build faster, more reliable networks while keeping costs under control, with particular attention on reducing energy use in a power-constrained market.

Speaking at the event, Arista’s Territory Account Manager for West Africa, Jide Olagbenro, said demand for efficient infrastructure is increasing as organisations look to balance performance with the cost of operation.

“Power is a real issue here,” he said. “You don’t want devices that consume too much energy. That is one of the reasons customers are turning to Arista.”

He added that the company’s solutions are already in use across key sectors in Nigeria, including financial services and large-scale industrial operations, emphasising the growing acceptance in the region.

“We are seeing strong adoption in this market,” he said. “But we need to keep working closely with our partners to expand that reach.”

Arista’s Regional Sales Director for sub-Saharan Africa, Marius Keown, pointed to the company’s global footprint, noting that its technology underpins some of the world’s largest cloud and content platforms.

“Some of the biggest platforms in the world run on our network,” he said. “They would not invest at that level if the technology did not perform.”

He further noted that the company’s growth has been driven largely by engineering focus rather than aggressive marketing. “We focus on building solid technology and letting the results speak.”

Ify Chukwuma, head of Business Development, sub-Saharan Africa at Resourcery Plc Group, highlighted the importance of aligning technology with business needs, drawing on the company’s long-standing presence in Nigeria.

“We’ve been in business for 40 years. That tells you we understand this market,” she said. “What we do is align technology with business needs and deliver solutions that are cost-effective and intelligent.”

She added that partnerships are essential to delivering large-scale infrastructure projects. “We can’t do this alone. That is why we partner with global players like Arista, to bring value to customers and give them peace of mind.”

Esther Oyedokun, country manager at MART Networks, said distribution, training and local support are key to successful deployment across African markets.

“Our goal is simple, to empower businesses with the right technology,” she said. “We don’t just supply products, we provide training, pre-sales and post-sales support, and ensure our partners are fully equipped.”

She noted that access to local stock and technical expertise helps reduce delays and improve service delivery.

On the technical side, Faith Oladapo, product manager for Enterprise Networking at MART Networks, a distributor for Arista Networks, said energy efficiency is becoming a practical concern for operators managing Nigeria’s data centres.

“Our switches can reduce power consumption by up to 30%,” she said. “At first, that may not seem like much, but in a data centre environment, over time, it becomes significant.”

She added that a unified software system across Arista’s products simplifies deployment and reduces licensing complexity.

“We use a single operating system across our products. That makes deployment easier and reduces costs.”

Oladapo also pointed to adequate distribution management as a way to reduce the circulation of unsupported products in the market.

“One of the problems in the market is the spread of unsupported or counterfeit products,” she said. “We manage distribution carefully to ensure customers get genuine, fully supported solutions.”

The company’s near-term focus in Nigeria will be on building local capacity. “We are investing in training partners and engineers, because they are the ones driving adoption on the ground,” Oladapo said.

Efficiency has become an indispensable factor as demand for digital services grows, and organisations place greater emphasis on infrastructure that delivers performance without increasing operational stress.

Arista and its partners are therefore placing priority on delivering networks that combine speed, reliability and lower energy use, across data centres and other sectors, while supporting the scale required by Nigeria’s expanding digital economy.

Peak brightness figures are now going over 3,000 nits on premium sets and refresh rates of 165–180Hz becoming standard on mid-to-high-end models. 

RGB Mini LED in particular is being commended for colour precision and brightness across multiple brands. 

If you decide to purchase a television right now, you shouldn’t limit your judgement to screen size or brand name. 

The evolution of display technology means buyers must weigh brightness, colour accuracy, gaming performance, smart features and long-term software support. In Nigeria, where value for money is paramount, this decision is super important.

Even before 2026, Samsung has mostly been seen as the benchmark for picture quality and reliability when it comes to TVs, and Hisense, historically a value-oriented brand, has closed the gap with its latest RGB Mini LED technology. 

This comparison looks at the latest 2026 TVs from Samsung and Hisense, and what you should prioritise before buying.

Latest 2026 TV Lineups, What’s New This Year

Samsung’s 2026 Lineup

This year, Samsung launched new Mini LED models (M70H, M80H) aimed at entry and mid-range buyers, alongside refreshed Neo QLED and OLED sets. 

The discontinuation of some older models like the QN90F shows something interesting, with Micro RGB technology emerging as a new premium option above traditional Neo QLED. 

Samsung’s OLEDs (such as the S95H and S99H) are reported to be up to 30–35% brighter than previous models, which directly improves HDR performance and overall picture quality. 

Features across the lineup include high refresh rates (up to 144Hz on some Mini LED models), AI-based picture and sound optimisation, and a strong smart platform with extended update support. 

Hisense’s 2026 Lineup

Hisense has doubled down on RGB Mini LED technology for 2026, especially in its premium UR9S and UR8S models. 

These sets come with peak brightness up to 4,000 nits, advanced Hi-View AI processors and high refresh rates (up to 180Hz), making them competitive with more expensive brands. 

Beyond that, Hisense has expanded its use of RGB Mini LED across larger screens and introduced family-friendly features such as the KiDoodle remote, which provides curated content access.

The range also includes solid mid-tier models like the U7S Pro and U7S, which provides strong performance for their price points. 

Technology Breakdown What is Most Important

Display Technology

Samsung’s premium models include Neo QLED and OLED technologies, with the former using Mini LED backlighting enhanced by quantum dots and the latter providing deep blacks and excellent contrast. 

The introduction of Micro RGB on flagship models points to even greater colour precision and brightness potential. 

Hisense’s focus on RGB Mini LED means each pixel’s backlight can produce richer, more accurate colours compared with traditional Mini LED sets. The use of additional primary colours (cyan or yellow sub-pixels in some models) further expands colour reproduction and visual depth. 

Brightness and Picture Quality

Brightness is a key metric for viewing in bright rooms, a common scenario in many Nigerian homes. Hisense’s flagship peak brightness figures of up to 4,000 nits are among the highest in the industry for LCD-based TVs. 

Samsung’s OLEDs are not far behind in performance, and the brand’s constant improvements in HDR handling and anti-reflection coatings help maintain clarity even in challenging lighting. 

Gaming Performance

In 2026, both Samsung and Hisense TVs now support high refresh rates and HDMI 2.1 features. Hisense models like the UR9S and UR8S push 180Hz, which can ensure smoother motion for fast-paced games. 

Samsung’s mid-range Mini LED models also offer 144Hz refresh and AMD FreeSync Premium, which improves responsiveness and reduces tearing during gameplay. 

Smart Features and Platform

Samsung’s Tizen platform is one of the most polished smart TV interfaces, with broad app support and long-term software updates. Hisense’s smart OS (often Google TV or Vidaa depending on region) is also strong, though update frequency can vary by model.

Feature and Performance Comparison

Price and Value: What We Should Expect

Globally, Samsung’s new Mini LED models start in the mid-range price bands, while flagship OLED and Micro RGB sets sit at the premium end. 

Hisense’s RGB Mini LED models are built to provide comparable performance at lower prices, making them attractive where budget is a deciding factor.

In Nigeria, where import duties and exchange rates significantly impact retail prices, this dynamic means Hisense gives more performance per naira, while Samsung maintains an edge in brand trust and resale value.

Use Cases

Gamers:
If you play fast-paced games or use your TV as a large monitor, the higher refresh rates on Hisense premium models are great. Samsung’s 144Hz models still perform well and provide a more polished interface.

Movie Lovers:
OLED models from Samsung provide deeper blacks and smoother gradation, which benefits cinematic content. Hisense’s RGB Mini LED shines in brightness and colour volume, which can make HDR scenes pop.

Everyday Viewing:
For general TV watching, news, sports, soaps, both brands provide excellent quality. Hisense may edge out on sheer brightness and motion clarity, while Samsung’s ecosystem and UI fluidity are harder to match.

Pros and Cons

Samsung
Pros: Trusted brand, strong software support, excellent picture quality.
Cons: Higher prices, some mid-range models drop key features.

Hisense
Pros: Outstanding brightness and colour tech, strong value.
Cons: Software updates can be inconsistent, build quality varies.

If budget is your top concern but you still want cutting-edge performance, Hisense’s 2026 RGB Mini LED lineup is a serious competitor. If you prioritise long-term support, ecosystem polish and proven quality, Samsung is the safer choice.

So…

Tell us your budget and what you watch most, sports, movies or games, and we’ll recommend the best specific models for your needs.

At the same time, the country recorded over 182 million active mobile subscriptions and about 53% broadband penetration as of early 2026.

These statistics are rarely spotlighted in discussions about Nigeria’s tech sector, though they point to the main driver in the field.

While attention is placed on startups, funding rounds and new apps, influence is consolidating around the companies that run the networks.

These include MTN Group and Airtel Africa, not simply as telecom operators, but as companies expanding into digital platforms.

The scale advantage nobody can replicate

Start with distribution. Nigeria has more than 182 million active mobile lines, with stable monthly growth. In January 2026 alone, over 2.5 million new subscriptions were added.

Market share is heavily concentrated, with MTN and Airtel together accounting for close to 86% of mobile connections in the country.

This is not a fragmented market, a small number of operators control access at scale, limiting how far smaller competitors can reach.

That control affects how people come online, how data is used, and how digital services reach users.

Startups build applications, but telcos are in control of the networks on which those applications depend.

From connectivity to control

For years, telecom companies relied on voice calls and SMS for revenue, but that model has changed.

Data now drives earnings, alongside enterprise services and digital offerings.

The transition is measurable and revenue is moving towards:

• mobile data
• business connectivity
• digital service layers

At the same time, telecom operators are expanding into:

• financial services
• developer platforms
• enterprise solutions
• identity and verification systems

This is a change in structure, not just product expansion.

Once a company controls connectivity, expanding into adjacent services becomes a natural progression.

MTN’s reset

Recent changes at MTN Group align with the new direction. A few days ago, the company announced the appointment of five new independent non-executive directors, alongside the planned retirement of long-serving board members. The changes take effect from March 31 and are tied to its Ambition 2030 strategy.

This is part of a governance adjustment. As operations expand across markets and services, oversight structures are being strengthened to match that scale and complexity.

Board composition influences strategic direction, capital allocation and risk management. Changes at that level usually show where a company is heading.

In this case, the direction points beyond traditional telecom operations.

Airtel is focusing on a different future

Airtel Africa is taking a different approach. The company is testing satellite-to-mobile connectivity, working with low-earth orbit systems to extend coverage.

Nigeria still faces infrastructure challenges, including uneven fibre deployment and high rollout costs in rural areas.

Satellite connectivity provides a way around these limits. Coverage is no longer tied entirely to physical infrastructure such as towers and fibre routes.

If scaled, this approach could change how network expansion is done, particularly in underserved areas.

The fintech convergence is inevitable

Telecom operators already have:

• large, verified user bases
• frequent customer interaction through airtime and data
• wide physical and digital distribution

These factors support expansion into:

• payments
• wallets
• remittance services
• credit products

This brings them into direct competition with fintech firms, with the difference lying in the starting point.

Startups build products and then acquire users. Telcos already have users and are building services around them.

The result of this overlap is still unfolding, but the direction is too simple not to understand.

Data flows, and telcos sit at the centre

Nigeria’s digital activity is growing really fast. Monthly data consumption has crossed 1.3 million terabytes, driven by streaming, social media and financial services.

All of that traffic runs through telecom networks.

Operators influence:

• connection speed
• pricing
• reliability

These factors affect how digital services perform and how widely they are adopted.

This places telecom companies in a foremost position within the digital economy.

There is Growth, but access is still uneven

Infrastructure investment is increasing even as the network keeps expanding, with more sites, wider fibre coverage and gradual 5G rollout. MTN alone invested over $1 billion in 2025, targeting wider broadband access.

However, there is still a huge gap.

Broadband penetration is just above 53%, and access is uneven across regions. Again, we can’t leave out the high expenses that limit many users.

Expansion is ongoing, but inclusion is not yet complete.

Regulation will follow power

With telecom companies expanding their role, regulatory attention is increasing.

Issues under focus include:

• data protection
• competition
• infrastructure security

Telecom networks now support financial systems, communication and economic activity at scale.

As their influence grows, so does the need for oversight.

The endgame is already visible

As it stands, telcos across Africa, in a bid to become tech platforms, are expanding into multiple layers of the digital economy.

Their roles are expanding to include:

• financial services
• cloud distribution
• identity systems
• infrastructure platforms

This places them in a position to support and influence a wide range of digital services.

Startups will continue to innovate just as regulators will continue to respond.

But telecom operators will always be indispensable to how digital access is provided and scaled.

So…

Much of the conversation around Nigeria’s tech sector focuses on applications, founders and funding.

That view leaves out the underlying systems that make those services possible.

The more fundamental changes are happening in network expansion, infrastructure investment and corporate strategy.

They are less visible, but they carry long-term weight, and they are steadily changing how the digital economy operates.

Nigeria, home to over 200 million people and one of the youngest populations in the world, has a focus point for technology companies looking to build artificial intelligence skills.

AI is projected to contribute trillions of dollars to the global economy over the next decade, pushing governments and technology firms to invest more in digital skills and workforce training.

Experts say Nigeria has the talent base to become a commendable AI hub if skills development keeps pace with the rapid adoption of technology across sectors such as finance, telecommunications and public services.

TeKnowledge believes there are opportunities, but only if training programmes move beyond awareness and start producing job-ready talent.

The company helped deliver the first phase of Microsoft’s AI National Skilling Initiative in Nigeria last year. That programme introduced more than 50,000 Nigerians to foundational and intermediate AI skills, while over 3,000 participants completed advanced training and earned Microsoft AI certifications.

About 1,700 of those certified trainees were developers drawn from 40 technology companies already working within the Microsoft ecosystem.

Many went on to build working tools during a developer hackathon organised under the programme. The teams produced nine applied AI solutions designed for financial services, including systems for document verification, fraud detection and automated risk analysis.

A career fair held alongside the training connected participants with employers and technology partners. Some secured roles during the event, while others entered job placement pathways with companies looking to expand their AI capabilities.

The next phase aims to expand the pipeline.

TeKnowledge and Microsoft say the AI programme will now focus heavily on students, developers, entrepreneurs and members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), one of Nigeria’s largest graduate mobilisation platforms.

Universities are also an important part of the rollout, with physical engagements planned at institutions including the University of Lagos, Lagos State University and Covenant University, where undergraduates will work on applied AI projects.

The initiative also aligns with national capacity building efforts such as the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme, part of the federal government’s plan to expand Nigeria’s digital workforce.

Olugbolahan Olusanya, territory director for Africa at TeKnowledge, said the Microsoft programme is moving from broad AI awareness to deeper alignment.

“Nigeria stands at a defining moment in its digital journey. AI is no longer a future concept, it is a present opportunity. This next phase is about scale, depth, and measurable impact. We are committing to directly train 10,000 participants in Phase 2, with deliberate focus on youth, women, developers, and decision makers who will drive AI adoption across sectors. 

“The Career Fair ensures this initiative goes beyond training, creating direct pathways from learning to livelihood. We are not simply delivering programmes; we are strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to compete in an AI-powered global economy.”

The training will combine online learning with hands-on projects and in-person workshops. Cybersecurity awareness and responsible AI use will also be included in the curriculum, reiterating data protection as organisations deploy AI systems.

For Microsoft, the initiative aligns with its goal to expand digital skills across Africa. The company has already trained millions of Nigerians in different technology programmes over the past five years, with AI now becoming the central focus of its workforce strategy.

Olatomiwa Williams, chief growth and AI officer for Microsoft Middle East and Africa, said Africa has the chance to move from technology consumption to innovation.

“Africa has an incredible opportunity to become not only a participant, but a builder and co-creator in the global AI economy, but much of this promise depends on building the right skills for this exciting new era. Microsoft’s AI Skilling Initiative plays a critical role in enabling Nigeria’s national digital skilling efforts. 

“Already we have seen wonderful innovation and globally relevant local solutions coming from the talent here in Nigeria. By deepening AI skills and diffusing AI adoption throughout the economy, Nigeria and the African continent stand to benefit.”

TeKnowledge has operated in Nigeria since 2018 and now employs more than 2,000 engineers and technology specialists in the country, supporting global customers from its Lagos hub and delivering services to organisations in more than 90 countries.

Aileen Allkins, the company’s chief executive and president, said the countries that invest early in AI will set the pace for the next phase of economic competition.

“Around the world, nations that invest in AI literacy and responsible adoption today will define tomorrow’s economic leadership. Nigeria has the talent, the ambition, and the entrepreneurial energy to lead in Africa’s AI transformation.

“Our focus is to combine global expertise with strong local execution, ensuring AI skills are accessible, inclusive, and impactful at scale.”

In Nigeria, AI will definitely transform industries, and the process has already begun with TeKnowledge, Microsoft and many other innovators.

The cover began in November 2024 with every active rider on the platform automatically enrolled. The policy covers accidental medical expenses, temporary disability and income support if a rider cannot work after an accident.

For a sector built on speed, this is an outstanding initiative. Riders keep Nigeria’s delivery apps running, but most operate as self-employed workers with limited protection.

Chowdeck, founded in October 2021, has grown and expanded across cities. It serves over two million customers and works with thousands of food and hospitality businesses. But like many platforms in the gig economy, its riders shoulder daily risks on busy roads.

Across Nigeria, riders working for platforms such as Bolt, Uber, Jumia Food and Chowdeck typically earn between ₦80,000 and ₦120,000 a week. Most are classified as independent workers. That means no paid leave, no pensions and, until recently, little structured insurance.

A 2026 survey found that 64% of location-based gig workers said income from platforms made a good difference to their household finances. The work is important, so is the risk.

Umar Nasir, head of Operations at Chowdeck, said: “riders are a critical part of everything we do at Chowdeck. This partnership with MyCoverGenius is about more than just insurance – it’s about setting a new benchmark for how delivery platforms in Africa should protect and support their people.

“We want every Chowdeck rider to feel secure knowing that their wellbeing is just as important as the meals and packages they deliver every day.”

Adebowale Banjo, chief executive officer at MyCoverGenius, said the company’s mission has always been to make insurance accessible, relevant, and impactful for everyday Africans and partnering with Chowdeck ensures “we’re not only extending protection to thousands of hardworking riders, but also demonstrating how digital platforms can integrate insurance in ways that directly improve lives.”

The timing is another important aspect. Nigeria’s 2026 tax reforms are drawing gig workers into the formal tax net. Riders and freelancers now face compliance obligations that did not apply to many of them before. However, most still lack the benefits tied to traditional employment.

That gap has led to issues about fairness in the fast-growing gig economy. Platforms depend on riders, but riders usually absorb the shocks when accidents happen or demand drops.

Globally, delivery and ride-hailing firms have begun to use welfare benefits to attract and retain workers. Insurance, in particular, is becoming a point of difference.

This brings an end to a period that saw commendable growth in the company’s West African operations.

In a personal statement shared on LinkedIn, the Regional Executive for West Africa confirmed he would be leaving the business, shedding light on what he described as a defining chapter in his career and the company’s development across the region.

“After 5+ incredible years, it’s time for me to sign off from Africa Data Centres (ADC).

What started as a bold experiment-stepping into a new market as a challenger-has evolved into a definitive chapter of growth, resilience, and success.

We didn’t just build data centres; we built the infrastructure for the future.

The journey was far from linear. It was defined by:

The Steep Curves: Navigating the complexities of a new market and turning challenges into competitive advantages.

The Milestones: Moving from our first rack to becoming a well-established, trusted partner in the colocation space.

The Culture: Building an organisation from the ground up that prioritises both operational excellence and a bit of fun along the way.

To my team and colleagues: You are the heartbeat of this success. Thank you for the late nights, the strategic breakthroughs, and the countless cups of coffee that fueled our progress. I am immensely proud of the “well-established” powerhouse we’ve become.

I’m walking away with great memories and a sharp focus on what’s next.

To my network: Stay tuned-I’m excited to share my next chapter with you soon.”

Dr Krish served most recently as Regional Executive for West Africa, a role he assumed in September 2022 after previously working as Chief Technology Officer at the company.

During his tenure, ADC expanded its regional and edge data centre footprint, becoming a key infrastructure provider that supports cloud adoption and local data hosting across several African markets.

Africa Data Centres, part of Cassava Technologies, operates one of the continent’s largest networks of carrier- and cloud-neutral data centre facilities. The company has been important in supporting digital transformation efforts, particularly as businesses shift workloads to the cloud and governments push for stronger data localisation.

Demand for data centres across Africa is increasing fast, driven by fintech growth, increasing internet usage and tough regulatory expectations around where data is stored.

In Nigeria especially, Dr Krish consistently argued that local data infrastructure is critical for digital sovereignty, improved security and long-term economic value.

Before joining ADC, he held senior leadership roles across Nigeria’s connectivity and data infrastructure sector, including positions at Medallion Communications Limited and Century Data Integrated Services Ltd. His career spans more than three decades across data centres, cloud services, connectivity and managed IT operations.

His exit comes at a time of strong competition in Africa’s digital infrastructure space, as global hyperscale cloud providers such as Amazon Web Services, Microsoft and Google strengthen their presence on the continent, increasing pressure on regional operators to scale quickly and maintain local relevance.

ADC has not yet announced a successor or provided details on leadership changes following his departure.

Dubbed a “miracle device”, the S26 series, comprising the S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra, comes with AI that anticipates your needs, a first-of-its-kind Privacy Display, and tools that completely enhance photography and daily life.

Samsung said the Galaxy S26 series is powered by “the most proactive and adaptive Galaxy AI experiences yet” and is designed to simplify the tasks people do on their phones every day.

Samsung’s third-generation AI phones, Galaxy S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra handle complex tasks in the background, allowing users to focus on results rather than how the technology works.

From the moment the briefing began, it was evident that Samsung is shifting the smartphone from a passive tool into a proactive assistant.

Senior executives including Lucas Lee, CEO of Samsung Electronics West Africa; Joy Tim-Ayoola, group head, Mobile Experience, Samsung Electronics West Africa; and Stephen Okpara, Product and Quality Assurance manager for Samsung Electronics stressed that the Galaxy S26 now acts as a personal agent, handling tasks in the background so users can focus on other aspects of their days.

The company added that the Galaxy S26 series was engineered with Samsung’s most advanced features working together as one, including performance, an intuitive camera system and Galaxy AI, giving users the confidence to depend on their phone throughout the day without compromising security or privacy.

AI That Runs Your Day

The Galaxy S26’s AI assistant can manage calls, schedule appointments, control smart home devices, and even book rides, all without touching the phone.

In Lagos, the demo showed how the device could take a spoken address, open Google Maps, and send the location to WhatsApp automatically. It can also decide which calls to accept or reject based on importance, making busy meetings distraction-free.

Samsung said the series integrates a choice of agents, including Bixby, Gemini and Perplexity. Once set up, tasks can be completed with a single button press or voice prompt.

The upgraded Bixby now works as a conversational device agent and can handle multi-step tasks in the background.

For example, with Gemini, booking a taxi is as simple as asking, reviewing the details and tapping confirm.

Samsung emphasised personalisation, explaining that the AI adapts to each user’s habits, learning routines and preferences to anticipate tasks. From managing plans and finding information to capturing and refining content, Galaxy S26 reduces the effort and number of steps required to get things done.

From waking up and adjusting home appliances to sending location updates and scheduling errands, the device essentially becomes a mobile concierge in your pocket.

Privacy That Protects You

The Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces the mobile industry’s first built-in Privacy Display, which dims pixels to block side-angle viewing without affecting screen quality. Samsung described it as privacy at the pixel level, built directly into the display rather than added as an accessory.

Designed for everyday situations like transit, cafés and shared environments, the feature limits what others can see from the side while keeping content clear for the user.

Unlike traditional stick-on privacy films, the integrated Privacy Display preserves full viewing quality when turned off and restricts visibility only when activated.

Users can activate it with a tap and customise privacy per app, ensuring sensitive information stays private, even in public spaces. It can also be set to turn on automatically when entering PINs, passwords or opening selected apps.

Partial Screen Privacy limits visibility for notification pop-ups, while Maximum Privacy Protection further obscures side views.

This feature takes away the need for third-party screen protectors while maintaining full colour and clarity for the user.

Beyond the display, Samsung said it builds protection into every layer of Galaxy S26. AI-powered Call Screening identifies unknown callers and summarises intent. Privacy Alerts notify users in real time when apps with device admin privileges attempt to access sensitive data such as precise location, call logs or contacts.

Private Album, built directly into Gallery, allows users to hide selected photos and videos without creating a separate folder or signing into a Samsung Account.

The company also confirmed it has extended post-quantum cryptography to critical system processes, including software verification and firmware protection.

Updates to Knox Matrix add end-to-end encryption for direct transfers like eSIM migrations and clearer visibility into firmware update status across connected devices.

Photography and Creativity Reimagined

The S26 series comes with Photo Assist and AI-powered editing tools that allow users to edit images simply by describing changes in natural language.

With the upgraded Photo Assist suite, users can describe what they want to change in their own words. Changing the scene from day to night is just a matter of asking. It can add to images and restore missing parts of objects like a bite taken out of a cake.

Personal details, such as a spill on clothing, can also be cleaned up with Galaxy AI’s ability to change outfits in photos. Edits can be made continuously, reviewed step by step, and adjusted or undone along the way.

Nightography Video keeps footage clearer and more vibrant in dim scenes, whether indoors or outdoors at night. Enhanced Super Steady now includes a horizontal lock option for more stable framing during movement.

On the Galaxy S26 Ultra, wider camera apertures allow more light to reach the sensor, delivering clearer photos with richer details in low-light conditions, even when zoomed in. Improvements to the AI ISP now extend to the selfie camera, capturing more natural skin tones and finer detail in mixed lighting.

For advanced creators, the device supports APV, a professional-grade video codec designed to deliver efficient compression for high-quality production workflows. Samsung said it ensures visually lossless video quality that stays true even after repeated editing.

Creative Studio brings sketches, photos and prompts into one integrated space, allowing users to create stickers, invitations and personalised wallpapers without switching tools. The AI-powered Document Scanner removes distortions such as creases or fingers and can organise multiple images automatically into a single PDF.

Power and Performance

Powered by a customised Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform for Galaxy processor, the Galaxy S26 Ultra delivers faster, smoother performance across multitasking, gaming and content creation.

Samsung said the chipset delivers up to a 19% CPU performance increase, a 39% improvement in NPU performance to power always-on Galaxy AI features, and a 24% boost in GPU performance for richer visuals and more fluid gameplay.

Across the line-up, the Galaxy S26 series is engineered for AI performance, power efficiency and thermal management, ensuring demanding tasks run smoothly and consistently. The Ultra model is also described as the slimmest Ultra yet.

Thermal management ensures consistent performance, while Super-Fast Charging 3.0 reaches up to 75% charge in just 30 minutes. Wireless charging is also supported, keeping the device ready for demanding daily use.

Taken together, Samsung noted that these advancements deliver dependable all-day performance.

Sustainability at the Core

The innovative giant is well focused on its environmental commitment. About 19% of materials across the S26 series come from recycled sources, packaging is 100% paper, and six years of software upgrades extend device lifespans, reducing e-waste while keeping users updated.

Everyday Automation in Action

What makes the Galaxy S26 indispensable?

• Scheduling smart home appliances automatically when you wake.
• Sending directions to friends via WhatsApp with only a voice command.
• Booking rides or appointments without opening an app.
• Editing photos or videos on the fly with AI-generated suggestions.

Galaxy S26’s ease of use continues even when the phone is out of reach. When paired with the new Galaxy Buds4 series, users can activate AI agents with their voices and manage calls through simple head gestures on Buds4 Pro.

Joy Tim-Ayoola, said, “Think about the device as an extension of yourself, it’s your personal assistant, securely grounded in our privacy networks.”

Availability

The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is available for pre-order in Nigeria starting February 25. Colours include Cobalt Violet, White, Black, Sky Blue, and Samsung.com exclusives in Pink Gold and Silver Shadow.

For added peace of mind, Samsung Care+ offers comprehensive coverage including fast repairs for accidental damage, extended warranty, and certified expert support available both at home and abroad.

The system checks news, images, videos, audio and social posts within seconds, scanning sources, detecting manipulation and flagging synthetic material before users engage or share. 

The company says the tool was built around live verification rather than the static datasets used by most existing solutions.

Chief Executive Kayode Aladesuyi said the platform was created to restore confidence online. “Truth has never been harder to find. Curation AI puts verification at everyone’s fingertips, empowering people to navigate the internet with confidence,” he said.

Eighty percent of the engineering team is Nigerian, with development, testing and deployment carried out mainly in Lagos and Abuja. The company sees the launch as evidence that Africa can move from consuming technology to building it.

The platform responds to the high digital risks across the continent, including fake political content, manipulated videos and AI-generated materials influencing public opinion. 

With most users struggling to tell genuine content from fabricated posts, the tool is designed for everyday use, from checking viral clips to confirming election-related claims and helping parents ensure children view authentic material.

Beyond verification, users can search live public opinion and monitor online conversations in real time. According to the firm, organisations in insurance, media, communications, elections and regulatory compliance are already testing the platform to authenticate content and track narratives before misinformation spreads.

MYai Robotics says the ability to run instant opinion polls, monitor brand activity and confirm the legitimacy of any digital file makes the system a strategic tool for institutions working to protect public trust.

The launch aligns with Nigeria’s goal, where government and private-sector experts are targeting 50,000 jobs in the AI sector by 2030 and aiming for a top-50 global ranking in readiness across computing power, skills, data, ethics and governance.

Curation AI is now available for public testing, where users can upload content, run checks and explore features at no cost.

Meanwhile, WhatsApp already has over 3 billion MAUs in 2025, with projections heading to ~3.14 billion by year-end. 

For any small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) thinking about customer engagement and brand storytelling, that’s opportunity.

Every day your customers open apps, swap messages, and watch updates. If your brand isn’t in the right channel, you might just be invisible. 

Today on brand comparison, we’re looking at two well-known competitors, WhatsApp and Telegram. We’ll compare them from the standpoint of customer engagement and brand storytelling, with a goal to help you decide which platform fits your brand’s voice, your community and your vision.

WhatsApp

Owned by Meta Platforms, WhatsApp is everywhere. With over 3 billion users in 2025, it is the most used global messaging app. 

In business mode, its dedicated apps (WhatsApp Business & Business API) have over 1.2 billion lifetime downloads.

Telegram

Telegram, founded in 2013, once niche and privacy-focused, has exploded. It hit ~1 billion MAUs in early 2025. It provides public channels, large communities and automation via bots.

Why this “quiet competition”?

Because these tools are evolving into platforms where brands tell stories, not just chat. SMEs usually treat messaging apps as one-more channel for support. But with these tools, you can build community, broadcast, and engage directly. Where you place your brand does matter.

Core Capacity & Feature Comparison for SMEs

Here’s how they stack up in terms of a brand that wants engagement + storytelling.

1. Reach & Audience

• WhatsApp: Huge global footprint; available in 180+ countries. Because many customers already “live” there, using WhatsApp may require less effort to reach them.
• Telegram: Smaller than WhatsApp in raw numbers, but quickly growing and especially strong among tech-savvy or globally dispersed communities. Some markets show very high penetration. For a brand looking to build a new community beyond its immediate locale, Telegram provides interesting reach.

If your brand’s community is primarily local, familiar with WhatsApp, that may be the safe option. If you’re aiming for global, cross-region, open-community storytelling, Telegram gives you more scope.

2. Engagement & Interaction

• WhatsApp: Primarily one-to-one or small group messaging. Business version supports quick replies, catalogues, broadcast lists. Because users open WhatsApp often (3–4 times per day) in many markets. 
• Telegram: Supports large-scale one-to-many “channels”, huge public groups, file sharing, bots for automation, no heavy algorithm filtering of content.
  For storytelling: Telegram lets you publish posts, updates, content that stays accessible; WhatsApp is more intimate, direct, conversational.

3. Storytelling & Brand Content

Storytelling means narrative, rich media, sustained engagement.

• On WhatsApp, you might run weekly updates, share behind-the-scenes via Status, respond personally to customers. But broadcast reach is limited (you rely on contact lists or groups).
• On Telegram you can build a channel of thousands, even tens of thousands, post multimedia updates, pin content, create bots or automated sequences. Because your messages go directly to subscribers, you avoid feed algorithms that bury your content.

So if your brand story is: “We’re a local crafts business, we want to talk personally to each customer, answer questions, build trust” → WhatsApp makes sense. If your story is: “We’re a thought-leader brand, we want to publish content, build a large audience, run community events” → Telegram has the edge.

4. Automation, Scale & Community Management

• Telegram: Very strong here. Bots, open API, large group sizes, flexible administration. Ideal if you want to scale to big audiences and automate. 
• WhatsApp: Also provides Business API integrations, but with more limitations (device number, message templates, opt-in rules). Excellent for customer service, personal outreach. So if your brand wants to scale quickly with automation, Telegram might win. If you want high-touch personalised engagement, WhatsApp may serve better.

5. Privacy, Trust & Compliance

Trust is important for SMEs.

• WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption by default in chats; its global scale and association with Meta raise regulatory questions. In the EU it has been classed as a “Very Large Online Platform.”
• Telegram offers encryption too, though not always default for all chats, and its business tools are still evolving.
  From an SME perspective: if your customers care about privacy, both platforms are acceptable, but WhatsApp’s ubiquity may give you more trust on the ground.

6. Costs, Monetisation & Business Model

• WhatsApp generated estimated revenue of approximately $1.785 billion in 2024, mostly via WhatsApp for Business. Also spending on WhatsApp Business is projected to hit ~$3.6 billion by 2025.
• Telegram revenue in 2023 was ~$342 million, growing quickly.
  For SMEs: WhatsApp has mature business tools but cost/messaging templates are important. Telegram offers lower barrier and greater freedom for broadcasting, but monetisation is less structured. Consider implementation effort, cost of maintenance, and whether you’ll need paid messaging or automation.

Use-Case Scenarios: Which Platform for What Type of SME/Brand Story

Let’s pick practical scenarios.

• Local service business in Lagos (e.g., an artisan workshop)
  Needs to build personal trust, answer queries, send reminders, and share pictures of finished work. WhatsApp Business suits perfectly. Direct, familiar, high open-rate.
• Creator brand/online education brand (global audience)
  Wants to publish weekly content, build community, run live sessions, and sell subscriptions. Telegram Channel + bots is the stronger fit. You can send broadcast content, automate sign-ups, and manage large audience.
• Hybrid approach
  Why pick one? Use WhatsApp for customer support, one-to-one conversations. Use Telegram for broadcast storytelling (company updates, insider content, community events). Each platform handles a different job.

Regional & Market Considerations (with focus on Nigeria/Africa)

In Nigeria and Africa at large, Many users already use WhatsApp daily for personal communication. Using WhatsApp means you meet customers where they are. 

Telegram is growing but may lag local adoption depending on segment. According to research, Telegram has strong uptake in countries like Nigeria, Malaysia, Indonesia. For a Lagos-based SME, the choice may depend on your target audience: if they’re urban, tech-savvy, globally oriented, Telegram works. If they’re local, mobile-first, WhatsApp might be better.

Also consider data costs, phone compatibility, and feature familiarity. If you assume your audience might not download and consistently engage with a new platform, going with WhatsApp is safer.

Challenges, Risks & Pitfalls

No platform is perfect.

• WhatsApp: Broadcast reach is limited; heavy reliance on contact lists; group size and broadcast list size constraints. Also, because everyone uses it, noise is high and users may ignore brand messages if they feel spammy. Being “just chat” may limit narrative depth.
• Telegram: Community building demands content discipline. Having a large channel is one thing; keeping subscribers engaged is another. Also, in some markets, Telegram may have lesser penetration, so your reach could be weaker. Automation requires skill; if mishandled you risk disengagement.
• Spam & trust risk: Both platforms have misuse potential. For example, WhatsApp has been used for fraudulent message campaigns. If your brand uses messaging badly, you risk being ignored or marked as spam.
• Compliance/regulation: WhatsApp’s size means it is under regulatory eyes (e.g., EU rules). Telegram, with less centralised control, may raise questions about moderation. SMEs must ensure opt-in, respect privacy laws, manage data properly.
• Content fatigue: Sending too many messages, poor quality content, or irrelevant updates can kill engagement fast. On Telegram you may publish to large numbers, but if you publish too irregularly or too often without value, people unsubscribe.
  Mitigation: treat each channel, both WhatsApp and Telegram, like media, plan schedule, content calendar, varied formats, monitor metrics, adapt.

Recommendations & Strategy Framework

Here’s a roadmap for SMEs to decide and act.

Step 1: Audit your audience and communication needs

• Where are your customers now? WhatsApp? Telegram? Both?
• Do you want direct support (one-to-one) or community building/broadcast (one-to-many)?
• What resources do you have (time, content, automation ability)?

Step 2: Choose your platform(s)

• If your brand’s priority = direct interaction, local service, WhatsApp is priority.
• If priority = broader narrative, content publishing, community growth, Telegram is strong.
• Consider using both: each for a distinct role.

Step 3: Content strategy

• For WhatsApp: set up a Business profile, define broadcast list strategy, schedule updates, use rich media (images, short videos), keep it conversational.
• For Telegram: establish a channel name, content themes (story arcs, behind-the-scenes, exclusive updates), schedule posts, possibly integrate a bot for registrations/feedback.

Step 4: Engagement/automation plan

• Use automation where sensible (quick replies, FAQs) but avoid losing human touch.
• On Telegram you can use bots for subscriptions, polls, and user-generated content.
• On WhatsApp, you may keep direct responses for high-value queries, and broadcast for regular updates.

Step 5: Measurement & refinement
Track metrics like: open/view rate (on Telegram channel posts you can see views), reply rate, unsubscribe/leave rate, conversion rate (e.g., from message to sale or booking).
Refine: If a broadcast sees low views, tweak time or content. If you see unsubscribes, review frequency. Over time you’ll know which platform is giving better ROI.

Example: A fictional Lagos‐based boutique “Elegance Lagos”

• Use WhatsApp Business to send appointment reminders, new arrival photos, one-to-one styles advice.
• Launch a Telegram Channel “Elegance Community” where you post weekly style stories, behind-the-scenes, customer spotlight, teaser previews, create a poll for next collection.
• Measure: WhatsApp replies and bookings; Telegram channel growth and click-through to website.

So, both WhatsApp and Telegram are solid, but they serve different purposes for the SME brand. If I had to pick one, I’d say: for immediate, direct customer engagement and trust building, go with WhatsApp. 

For building a larger scale brand narrative, community and broadcast capability, go with Telegram. But the smartest brands will use both, with clear roles for each.

Don’t treat either as just “chat” platforms. Treat them as storytelling platforms. Because your customers are not just messaging, they’re expecting experience, community and value. 

And in this competition of channels, WhatsApp and Telegram, the winner will be the brand that sells where its audience already lives.

Now: you are ready. Pick your platform, set your plan, start telling your story.