Adeleye sated this in his address during the recent WorldStage Nigeria’s Macro-economic Outlook 2026 presentation in Lagos.

In the speech, the WorldStage boss explored how nurturing the synergy between local media and corporate organizations can ensure steady flows of business and investment information.

President Bola Tinubu said recently that his government will cut tariffs on media equipment coming to the country, hoping to provide some relief for the media industry.

“But with media houses now transforming to offer online products and services, the extent to which they will benefit from such tariffs cut may be very minimal,” Adeleye said.

According to him, the only reasonable revenue source in the industry is advertising, whose window has been closing over the years.

He offered another look into the Federal Government’s “Nigeria First” policy through the lens of the media sector and the local advertisers he said make profits in Nigeria but spend the bulk of their ad dollars on foreign media to look good.

“The policy can be explored to compel local businesses to prioritize the local media. This is important because many Nigeria’s blue chips spend millions of dollars to promote their businesses in foreign media with little regards for the local players,” he said.

“The way forward, I think, should be for President Bola Tinubu to issue an Executive Order mandating local firms to commit nothing less than 80 percent of their advertising budget to local media.”

He commended sponsors of the outlook, which include the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), Zenith Bank, NLNG, CBN, NNPC Limited, Linkage Assurance, and Fidelity Bank.

“I believe if most Nigerian firms can emulate NLNG in terms of social responsibility and commitment to local media, there will be no need of seeking for an Executive Order for them to do the needful,” he said.

The outlook reflected hopes, projections, optimism for Nigeria’s economy, with caution, according to its reviewer, Lagos Commissioner for Information Gbenga Omotoso.

Adeleye said a sequel to the outlook, Q1 2026 Report, will provide actionable insights for policymakers, businesses, and investors, informing strategies for growth and development.

Speaking at the 2025 ITREALMS E-Waste Dialogue organised by ITREALMS Media group, with the theme “Nigeria: Recycle Your E-Waste It’s Critical” Ugbechie described e-waste as a “crucial national emergency,” stressing that Nigerians must be made to understand the economic value hidden in discarded electronic devices.

“The global value of e-waste is about $58 billion. Every piece of e-waste is cash. This thing you are throwing away, this thing you see as refuse, has value. And when you put value to something, you don’t trash it,” he said.

Ken Ugbechie criticised Nigeria’s deepening “show-off” and disposable consumption habits, pointing out that many consumers replace devices not out of necessity but to appear trendy.

“We are stupendously extravagant as a people. You buy a phone today, two months later you throw it away to buy another just to show you are in town. Manufacturers exploit this behaviour and know exactly where to dump inferior products,” he noted.

He warned that this behavioural pattern not only encourages reckless disposal but also incentivises the importation of substandard electronics into the Nigerian market.

Ugbechie further highlighted the severe health dangers associated with unmanaged e-waste, noting that toxic substances such as mercury and lead seep into the soil and water systems.

“E-waste is carcinogenic. When these substances wash into our environment, they enter our lungs and skin. That is why cancer and related diseases are rising, especially among the younger population,” he said.

He called on government agencies to professionalise e-waste handling and ensure harmful materials do not continue to contaminate the environment.

While acknowledging NESREA’s regulatory mandate, Ugbechie insisted that the agency must expand its public awareness efforts and create a structured ecosystem of collectors and recyclers.

“NESREA has to create different layers of people who can pick up e-waste. But most importantly, there must be continuous enlightenment. The behavioural pattern of the people is what drives this crisis,” he said.

Ugbechie ended with a call: “NESREA needs to increase its budget for media and publicity. Without massive enlightenment, this crisis will continue.”

The 2025 ITREALMS E-Waste Dialogue continued to spotlight the urgent need for coordinated national action, stronger regulation, and sustained environmental education to curb Nigeria’s fast-worsening e-waste problem.

This year’s dialogue was supported by the ALTON, NCC, IXPN, NLNG, NESREA and EPRON while students from several schools were in attendance including ReapVille Schools, St Joachim College, Upland College and Stigal Int’l Schools among other stakeholders.

Speaking at the GASTECH 2025 Conference in Milan, the company made it clear that AI is no longer a future promise, it’s a key enabler for delivering on its sustainability and safety goals.

At a panel session titled “Operational Excellence through the Application of Artificial Intelligence Technologies,” Olakunle Osobu, NLNG’s deputy managing director, emphasized how the technology is already boosting reliability and performance across the company’s value chain.

He noted that NLNG’s Goal Zero safety policy and its operational-efficiency targets are seeing tangible improvements through AI.

Some of the ways NLNG is applying AI include:

• Using virtual reality tools and AI agents to accelerate staff onboarding and improve retention of critical operational knowledge.
• Employing smart cameras and satellite technology to enhance visual analytics for better safety monitoring and operational compliance.
• Implementing predictive maintenance and automation to ensure high asset reliability and reduce downtime.
• Strengthening emissions monitoring through AI-driven optimisation, supporting NLNG’s commitments to energy transition and cleaner operations. Osobu underscored the importance of starting with integrating AI into existing platforms. This approach, he said, unlocks predictive, preventive, and corrective maintenance strategies, keeping NLNG’s plants operating at or near peak performance.

To ensure that the benefits of AI translate into real value, NLNG is also investing in upskilling its workforce.

Its Centre of Excellence is helping align employee capabilities with the demands of AI-infused processes.

NLNG’s showcase at GASTECH 2025 reflects its ambition to lead by example in the energy sector.

The company is signaling that sustainable, secure, and efficient energy production increasingly depends on harnessing smart technologies. As NLNG puts it, its vision is to be “a globally competitive energy company, improving lives sustainably.”

This call was made by Dr. Jimson Olufuye, principal consultant at Kontemporary Konsulting Ltd and Chairman of the 2025 Nigeria DigitalSENSE Africa Forum on Internet Governance for Development.

The call was made during the forum held at the Welcome Centre Hotels, MM International Airport Road, Lagos, on Thursday, June 19.

The Nigeria DigitalSENSE Forum series, hosted by the internet corporation for assigned names and numbers (ICANN) certified At-Large Structure (ALS), DigitalSENSE Africa, under the Africa Regional At-Large Organization (AFRALO), is powered by ITREALMS Media.

The WSIS review aims to assess progress made since the summit’s initial outcomes in 2003 and 2005, focusing on key areas such as digital divides, internet governance, and sustainable development.

Olufuye also encouraged Nigeria’s ICT stakeholders to participate in the review process, sharing their experiences and insights to shape the country’s digital future.

By engaging in the WSIS review process, Olufuye who is member of the United Nations’ Multistakeholder Advisory Group, said, Nigeria’s ICT stakeholders could contribute to shaping the country’s digital landscape and ensuring that the benefits of technology are equitably distributed.

The stakeholders have also been urged to explore opportunities for collaboration and partnership to drive technological development and economic growth.

The WSIS review process, he underscored, is expected to culminate in future high-level events, where world leaders and ICT stakeholders will gather to review progress and outline future directions.

This event will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss key issues, such as digital divide, Internet Governance, cyber security among others.

In addition to fostering the Sustainable Development by leveraging digital technologies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He recalls that some countries have already conducted WSIS reviews, providing valuable lessons and insights for Nigeria.

In 2015, he recalled that there was  a WSIS+10 Review by the UN General Assembly to conduct a ten-year review of the WSIS outcomes, which reaffirmed the WSIS principles and called for a further review by the Assembly in 2025, hence countries like Nigeria should take the review seriously.

Olufuye further pointed out that by participating in the WSIS review process, Nigeria’s ICT stakeholders could help shape the country’s digital future and ensure that the benefits of technology are equitably distributed.

Welcoming participants earlier, the Lead Consulting Strategist, DigitalSENSE Africa and Group of ITREALMS Media group, Ogbuefi Remmy Nweke noted that the 16th annual forum began since 2009, which has continued to rally Internet stakeholders to address challenges in Internet Governance, security, and socio-economic impact, focusing on students, youth, women, and community-based organizations.

Focus, this year, he said, was on the Global Digital Compact (GDC), a globally significant UN initiative that demands global effort and urged Nigeria to take lead in this transformation, at least from the African continent.

“The GDC calls us to commit to bridging digital divides, inclusive digital economy, open, safe, and secure digital space; international data governance and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to name a few,” he said.

Nweke also appreciated participation of esteemed speakers, including Dr. Jimson Olufuye, Mr. Muhammed Rudman, Mr. Gbenga Sesan and Mrs. Tinuade Oguntuyi, among others.

NDSF 2025, he said, was hosted in partnership with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) via the African At-Large Regional Organisation (AFRALO), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), Internet Society Nigeria chapter, NLNG, NNPCL, Digital Realty, and Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), among others.

The visit, aimed at establishing a robust partnership, highlights Seplat’s commitment to equipping its workforce with cutting-edge technology solutions.

The Seplat team, led by Iniabasi Ekpo, IT Site Lead, and Oyebola Chukwunyem, IT Customer Experience Lead, was warmly received by Kelechi Eze-Okonta, managing director of Zinox Technologies, and her team.

During the visit, the Seplat delegation toured Zinox’s state-of-the-art facility, gaining firsthand insight into the company’s innovative solutions and cutting-edge technology offerings.

At the heart of this visit is Seplat’s objective to provide its workforce with high-performance laptops, desktops, and other technological devices designed specifically for performance, security, and efficiency.

This initiative aligns with Seplat’s ongoing efforts to maintain operational excellence in Nigeria’s competitive energy sector.

For over two decades, Zinox Technologies has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s digital transformation. As an indigenous IT powerhouse, Zinox has consistently delivered cutting-edge technology solutions tailored to the unique needs of businesses, government agencies, and multinational corporations. Needless to say, it emerged as a natural choice for this collaboration.

Zinox’s reputation as a technology titan is well-established. It has successfully partnered with global energy giants, including Chevron, Shell, and NLNG.

These collaborations have empowered major energy corporations with secure, high-performance computing solutions, reinforcing Nigeria’s ability to compete in the global digital economy.

“We are excited about the partnership with Seplat Energy,” said Kelechi Eze-Okonta, managing director of Zinox Technologies. “This collaboration represents the coming together of two industry leaders committed to driving technological advancement in Nigeria. At Zinox, we understand the unique technological needs of the energy sector, and we are positioned to deliver solutions that will enhance Seplat’s operational capabilities.”

With Seplat’s investment in Zinox’s high-end computing solutions, the future of Nigeria’s technology independence looks even brighter. This partnership is a testament to the fact that world-class technology can also be built here in Nigeria.

As more corporations follow in Seplat’s footsteps, Nigeria is well on its way to becoming a self-reliant technology powerhouse, driven by indigenous innovation, cutting-edge solutions, and a commitment to excellence on a global scale.

opined that for Nigeria to have a stable economy and prevent a bankruptcy situation, it will need to borrow in the region of N21 trillion in 2024.

He said despite the low optimism in the country, the economy is going to ex­perience a turnaround if the necessary steps are taken.

He added that the major challenge facing the country is the lack of interest in the economy by foreign inves­tors and that with all measures currently being put in place, these investors will come naturally.

Foreign portfolio investors are likely to get interested in Nigeria and this is based on seeing that our position is good enough and we can raise money through the Euro bond.

He said, “To foreign portfolio investors, the biggest worry is the lack of ease of entry and exit. And that is because the price in the market does not necessarily tell us why the prices should be traded.

“So, recently we’ve seen the FMDQ begin to publish prices that are fairly reflective of where parallel market rates are.

“What this does is to open the doors for foreign portfolio in­vestors to bring in their money, because they are likely to have market rate.

“It is not going to happen as quickly as we want it to happen. But this is a good development, in which case there is a likelihood that we’ll begin to see a few of them coming.

“The moment the market con­tinues to adjust and it is perceived to be positive, it begins to open the door for us to go do a Euro bond issuance and I say this because we need to then connect the dots.

“The monetary policy at this current time is trying to make sure they’re doing everything possible in the orthodox way.

“So they want to be able to mop up liquidity the way they should. They want to ensure banks are capitalised properly.

“They want to have a trans­parent forex market, clear the backlog of foreign exchange and in doing what is right based on what we have spoken about, in 2024 N21 trillion, at least must be borrowed”.

He added that while the coun­try is able to do this, it must also be aware of the prevalent high interest rate.

“So if you have to borrow that amount of money, and the infla­tion is at 28.9 percent, it is only log­ical that rates must rise. At least to make sure that your return is positive.

“There’s going to be inflation targeting. So, any rates that you see now, where the interbank rate or the OMO rate or the NI­BOR rates are at about 14, or 15 percent, we are only just getting ready to get to where we are go­ing.

“This reason is simple, for the Federal Government to borrow, they must pay up and for also con­tain inflation which is also partly fed from the exchange rate.

“We must pay the right kind of interest rate if we’re going to attract foreign portfolio investors. So, you have to be able to put all of that together to say we want for­eign portfolio investors to come.”

On inflation, the MD of Standard Chartered Bank said the Federal Government and the CBN must mop up at the right level and these simply suggest that in 2024, rates will rise.

While explaining the roles of both fiscal and monetary agen­cies, Adelagun said, “The inter­esting part of what is happening in 2024 is that there is a clear dis­tinction between the monetary and fiscal. Fiscal wants lower rates, monetary is saying we are just going to do what is right and that is a big development in 2024.

“Several policies have come in from the beginning of this week in particular, and I’m sure that by the time we’re all leaving here there’ll probably be a few more circulars coming in, suggesting one or two things.”

Painting a positive scenario, Adelagun said, “On the back of some policies, FMDQ has done their part. They have told banks to sell their long positions. Some will argue that we have seen this before, but the difference now is that unlike the time when we published our financials and did a few things, there seems to be a very tight sequencing.

“So they’re doing everything right in the right direction. So circulars are coming at the right pace.

“Having said to banks, you that must sell down your posi­tions, what is likely to happen is the chance that FPIs begin to get interested, so, that brings in a bit of liquidity.

“If that begins to happen, then our pricing of Eurobond then resets and begins to give us an avenue to raise some more money.

“Also, production continues to ramp up and they then have the firepower to defend the currency a bit more. Auctions will not be the same kind of auctions we are used to. But as production contin­ues, and NNPC and CBN begin to get their act together, they then can begin to intervene in the mar­ket in the way they should once in a while.

“N1,400 to a dollar has happened, we have fastened our seat­belts but very soon, what is likely to happen is the impact of this initial push of the liquidity that has been sitting on banks books, pushes the rates a bit lower”, the Standard Chartered Bank boss added.

Continuing, he said, “It catches on with FDI flows, catches on the Eurobond issu­ance. It catches up with the pro­duction ramping up and NNPC catches on also with the securi­tisation of the NLNG and a few more flows coming in from differ­ent sources.

“And most importantly, the CBN has now decided we are go­ing to make sure we only sell FX to legitimate demands.

“So of the $5 billion outstand­ing forwards, they have been able to trim that down to a smaller number and the reason why that has happened is because most of the demands don’t follow due process. So if you are able to trim down that demand, ultimately what you’re able to achieve is to have just enough liquidity to meet legitimate demands.

“If you take out all the de­mand that are illegitimate, and confidence builds up, people then begin to speculate less on the currency.

“So, interest rates are going to rise and it is time for us to build up cash and wait for the right time to invest in TBs or bonds, it’s going to happen”. (Independent)

He specializes in analyzing workflows, assessing performance metrics, and implementing strategic improvements that drive productivity.

With a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of industry best practices, Jerry collaborates with teams across various departments to streamline operations and deliver measurable results, ultimately helping organizations achieve their goals and maintain a competitive edge in the market. In this interview, he shares his experience leading a full-cycle SAP SuccessFactors implementation project and other sundry issues…excerpt:

Hi Jerry, Can you walk us through your experience leading a full-cycle SAP SuccessFactors implementation project?

Jerry Egboh (JE):

I’ve led multiple full-cycle implementations of SAP SuccessFactors, including a recent project for Africa’s largest liquified natural gas provider, NLNG. I was responsible for stakeholder communication, defining organizational structures, conducting requirement workshops, and managing post-go-live support. My role ensured that the project was delivered on time and within budget, meeting all client expectations and providing measurable improvements in HR management.

How do you ensure successful stakeholder engagement during complex projects?

JE: My approach involves clear, consistent communication and active involvement of all stakeholders from the planning phase through to project execution.

By facilitating regular workshops and maintaining transparency, I ensure that stakeholders are aligned with the project goals, fostering trust and collaboration. This method was particularly effective in my work with NLNG and Craneburg Construction.

What challenges did you face while implementing Sage X3 ERP, and how did you overcome them?

JE: One challenge during the Sage X3 ERP implementation for RAR Holding was integrating the system with third-party applications like payroll, across five plant sites. We faced compatibility issues, but by customizing workflows and conducting thorough super-user training, we successfully ensured a seamless integration, improving operational efficiency across all sites.

Can you describe your approach to time evaluation and management in SAP SuccessFactors? 

JE: Time evaluation plays a crucial role in workforce management. For the projects at NLNG and Craneburg Construction, I developed functional specifications and data interfaces for time reservation, ensuring accurate time sheet evaluations. This contributed to better resource management, improved payroll accuracy, and overall operational efficiency.

How do you utilize your expertise in financial systems like Sage and Microsoft Dynamics to drive business efficiency?

JE: My deep knowledge of ERP systems like Sage and Microsoft Dynamics enables me to customize and configure these platforms according to specific business needs. At Sage, I worked extensively on presales and implementation, helping clients optimize their operations through well-tailored financial solutions, ultimately boosting productivity and cost savings.

What key factors contributed to your success in leading six full-cycle implementations?

JE: Success in leading full-cycle implementations comes down to thorough planning, stakeholder engagement, and adaptability. Each project is unique, but my ability to gather precise requirements, provide effective training, and configure systems to client needs has been pivotal. Additionally, my use of Agile methodology ensures flexibility, allowing projects to adapt to any changes or challenges that arise.

How do you manage the complexity of integrating ERP systems with other software? 

JE: I’ve managed several complex integrations, including SAP-to-SAP and Sage-to-Sage integrations. The key to successful integration is mapping out all processes and workflows clearly before implementation, ensuring compatibility between systems. For instance, during the Sage X3 ERP project, we developed custom data interfaces and reports to ensure seamless integration with existing payroll systems.

Can you share an example where your leadership directly contributed to a project’s success?

JE: As the project lead for NLNG’s SAP SuccessFactors implementation, I provided oversight for the entire project, from stakeholder engagement to UAT workshops and post-go-live support. My leadership ensured the project was completed ahead of schedule and under budget, significantly enhancing the company’s HR operations.

What is your approach to data analytics in business process improvements?

JE: I leverage tools like Microsoft Power BI and SQL to analyze data, providing actionable insights that drive process improvements. For instance, during my tenure at Sage, I used data analytics to evaluate client needs and refine our product offerings, resulting in more effective ERP solutions and higher client satisfaction.

How do you stay up to date with emerging technologies and trends in ERP and business analysis?

JE: Continuous learning is vital in my field. I regularly attend training programs, and I’m certified in key systems such as SAP SuccessFactors and Sage.

Additionally, my membership in professional organizations like the IIBA and PMP ensures I stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in business analysis and ERP systems.

Thank you for your time and for sharing this much of your expertise with us.