This is in furtherance of the Commission’s determination to fast-track the achievement of the National Digital transformation agenda of President Muhammadu Buhari’s government.

Professor Umar Garba Danbatta, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO), NCC, revealed this at the TechTV, Digital Agenda Forum which held in Lagos last week.

The session, which had the theme “Looking Forward 2023 – Convergence of 5G, AI, IoT & Blockchain.” was a platform to review the activities and progress in the nation’s ICT industry in 2022 and an insight into expectations for 2023.

Prof Danbatta, speaking through Dr. Chudi Diugwu, Deputy Director, New Media and Information Security at the Commission, “the NCC is working to ensure a comprehensive Digital Transformation as a key driver by converging and harnessing the successes of various emerging technologies at our disposal for the common good of our nation’s transformation agenda.”

He explained that artificial intelligence (AI) programs are necessary for a fully functional and efficient 5G network as conventional 4G networks with all-IP (Internet Protocol) broadband connectivity are reactive, which results in low spectrum utilization.

The field of Al and its subcategories such as machine learning and deep learning has advanced to the point where 5G wireless networks can now be proactive and predictive, which is crucial for realizing the 5G vision of high spectrum utilization by enabling new advanced services based on its support for Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communication (URLLC).

In addition, he added, that the 5G network will be critical to fully implementing the Internet of Things (loTs) that connects computing resources such as sensors, automobiles, and wearable gadgets with people.

Prof Danbatta remarked that to enhance economic transformation, the NCC is making efforts to continually drive initiatives that accelerate the deployment of digital infrastructure in Nigeria. It is through this effort that the Commission had in December 2021 awarded two telecommunication companies the bid for the 5G spectrum licenses in one of the most remarkable and successful auctions in Africa.

Ghanaian Consul General in Lagos, her Excellency, Samata Gifty Bukari, thanked the Nigerian Communications Commission for providing an uncommon regulatory prowess that other African telecom regulator are emulating as the NCC continues to create an enabling Telecom environment for investors.

She called on leaders across the continent to be committed to digital economy agenda as it has the potential to transform nations noting that digital education is a panacea not an option in this age.

Rita Ndidi Amuchienwa, Country Executive Leader, West Africa Intel Corporation, who delivered the keynote address stated that the firm is investing in education, especially skills for innovation and artificial intelligence. It is working with state governments to expand access to digital knowledge and skills.

She revealed that Intel is empowering universities noting that it has a project with Baze University to build a platform to enable them to take the know-how to the grassroots.

Pius Okigbo Jnr, CEO, InfoSoft Nigeria Limited, and the Chairman of the Digital Agenda Forum 2022, noted that education is critical to creating the future we desire.

He called on governments at all levels to make education a priority.

The first welfare initiative christened ‘The Arit Project’ was hatched in February 2021 by a think-tank group under the leadership of the UCTAAA Care Chairman, Mr. Segun Ojalatan and endorsed by UCTAAA Global President, Mrs. Rita Ndidi Amuchienwa.   The Arit Project came at a time when people were asking the buzz question, ‘what are the benefits of joining the Association?’

The Arit Project was simple and focused; Education. 

According to the Global President, it was a test run to gauge the capacity and readiness of the Association to initiate and fund people centric welfare programmes in the midst of the economic challenges in the country.

Arit’s choice for the premier programme was spontaneous and impromptu. During UCTAAA general meeting, Miss Arit Edem of the Calabar Chapter had expressed her frustration in getting a good job citing poor skills that will enable her get a good job and lack of funds to acquire technical skill or even further her education. Her brave confession coupled with her willingness to commit herself was immediately interpreted as a cry for help and the Global President Mrs Rita Ndidi Amuchienwa triggered action through UCTAAA Care. 

The next few days saw Arit and the team experimenting on viable options and a WhatsApp group was created tagged ‘Arit Progress Tracking’ made up of handpicked but willing members who raised funds for the identified project – personal development through further education.

The project, like other projects of this nature, suffered several challenges but the team had built its resilience structure woven round the Calabar/UK Chapters and the Global office. Importantly, the team was encouraged by Arit’s commitment to forge ahead.  

We are happy to announce today that the project was a huge success and Arit Edem is in the UK pursuing her Master’s Degree. Miss Arit’s success story provides a tailored response to the buzz question regarding the benefits of joining the University of Calabar Theatre Arts Alumni Association.

The Arit story has not only shown that Alumni Associations are an amazing way to stay connected to mates/colleagues long after you graduation, but it presents an opportunity for us to see that the Association also offers awesome perks for members. 

The question begging for answers now is ‘who’s next?’ It is worth noting that even as members are encouraged to be active and socialize, the Global Exco will continue to pursue and champion projects geared towards improving the lives of its members. This will be done through consultation with key stakeholders, UCTAAA Care scheme as well as well-meaning individuals with capacity to partner with the Association towards improving the lives of its members. 

While briefing the Chapters and thanking the donors on the Association’s social media platform, the Global President assured the members that based on the success of the Arit’s Project, members should brace up and be committed to the ideals of the Association because, UCTAAA Care will do it again.

One of the reputable personalities pushing for the mentorship scheme is Mrs. Rita Ndidi Amuchienwa.

She delivered the keynote address and mentored fresh technology graduates from the university.

This event was a collaboration with the American Embassy in Nigeria under the chairmanship of Ms. Claire Pierrangelo, the consular general.

The event cantered on – Empowerment and Confidence, Career Advancement, Networking Opportunities, Skills development, role models and, support and encouragement

In her address, Mrs Rita Ndidi Amuchienwa talked about empowerment and confidence which she stated that mentoring helps women build confidence and empowers them to take on leadership roles.

“It provides a safe space for women to discuss their challenges and receive guidance on how to overcome them”, she said.

On career advancement, she explained that mentorship is a powerful tool for career acceleration.

“It provides women with the guidance and advocacy they need to navigate their professional journey, helping them set and achieve their career goals”, Mrs. Amuchienwa said.

Further in her address she elaborated on Networking Opportunities, stressing that “mentoring opens doors to new opportunities and expands professional networks. It allows women to connect with influential leaders and peers who can support their career growth.”

“Skill Development: Mentors share their expertise and knowledge, helping mentees develop new skills and improve existing ones. This continuous learning process is crucial for personal and professional growth.

“Support and Encouragement: Mentors provide emotional support and encouragement, helping women overcome self-doubt and workplace biases. This support is essential for women to thrive in their careers.

“Role Models: Having a mentor who has successfully navigated similar challenges can be incredibly inspiring. It shows women that it is possible to achieve their goals and provides a roadmap for success.

Other speaker agreed with the keynote speaker that mentoring programs promote diversity and inclusion by supporting women from different backgrounds and experiences which leads to a more inclusive and equitable workplace.