Tech news update

1. Nigeria\’s Internet Service Disruption: Causes and Consequence Nigeria\’s internet service disruption has had a significant impact on the country\’s economy and citizens. The outage has caused frustration and inconvenience for individuals who rely on internet services for communication, entertainment, and other purposes. Businesses that rely on internet services have also lost revenue due to the outage. The disruption has also affected the country\’s ability to attract foreign investment, as a reliable internet connection is essential for businesses to operate effectively. The Nigerian government has acknowledged the importance of internet services to the country\’s economy and has taken steps to address the issue. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been working with network providers to identify and fix the cause of the outage. The NCC has also implemented measures to prevent future outages, including the deployment of backup systems and the upgrading of fiber optic cables.   Despite these efforts, the outage has highlighted the need for Nigeria to invest in improving its internet infrastructure. The country\’s internet infrastructure is still developing, and outages can occur due to technical issues or maintenance. To prevent future outages, Nigeria needs to increase its investment in internet infrastructure, including the deployment of more fiber optic cables and the upgrading of network capacity. The outage has also highlighted the importance of having a reliable internet connection for businesses and individuals. Many businesses in Nigeria rely on Internet services to operate effectively, and the outage has caused significant losses for these businesses. Individuals also rely on internet services for communication, entertainment, and other purposes, and the outage has caused frustration and inconvenience for these individuals.   2. Nintendo\’s Quarterly Loss: A Sign of Trouble for the Gaming Giant? Nintendo, the Japanese gaming giant, has reported a significant decline in its first-quarter net profit, with sales of its seven-year-old Switch console slowing down. The company\’s net profit more than halved, sparking concerns about the future of the iconic gaming brand. Nintendo faces increased competition from rival gaming companies, such as Sony and Microsoft, and struggles to maintain momentum for its aging console. The decline in sales is attributed to various factors, including the lack of new games and the console\’s aging hardware. The Switch, which was released in 2017, has been a massive success for Nintendo, but its sales have been declining steadily over the past year. The company has tried to revamp the console with new models, such as the Switch Lite and the Switch OLED, but these efforts have not been enough to boost sales. Nintendo\’s struggles are also attributed to the rise of cloud gaming and the increasing popularity of rival consoles, such as the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X. Cloud gaming allows users to play high-quality games on various devices without the need for a dedicated console, which could potentially disrupt Nintendo\’s business model. Despite these challenges, Nintendo remains optimistic about its future prospects. The company is working on new games and hardware, including a rumored new console, which could help to revitalize its sales. However, the gaming industry is highly competitive, and Nintendo faces significant challenges in maintaining its position as a leading gaming brand. Click here to read previous latest news update Tech news update for the first week of June, 2024   3. MTN Nigeria\’s Declared loos of N519.1 billion after Tax MTN Nigeria Communications Plc has declared a loss after tax of N519.1 billion for the first half of 2024, citing record-high inflation and the naira\’s devaluation as major factors. The loss highlights the challenges facing the telecom industry in Nigeria, where economic uncertainty and regulatory hurdles have impacted businesses. The devaluation of the naira has increased the cost of imported equipment and services, affecting MTN Nigeria\’s bottom line. Additionally, the company faces intense competition in the telecom market, with several other operators vying for market share. The regulatory environment also poses challenges, with frequent changes in policies and regulations affecting the industry. Despite these challenges, MTN Nigeria remains committed to investing in its network and services. The company has announced plans to spend billions of naira on network upgrades and expansion, aimed at improving service quality and coverage. However, the economic challenges facing the country may impact the company\’s ability to implement these plans. The loss reported by MTN Nigeria is a reflection of the broader economic challenges facing the country. Nigeria is struggling with high inflation, a devalued currency, and a decline in economic growth. These challenges affect businesses across various sectors, including telecoms, and highlight the need for policymakers to address the underlying issues.   4. TikTok\’s Visionary Voices List for Africa: Celebrating Creativity and Innovation TikTok has announced its inaugural Visionary Voices List for Africa, recognizing 15 individuals driving innovation and cultural representation across the continent. The list celebrates African creators, artists, and activists making a positive impact on the platform. The Visionary Voices List highlights TikTok\’s commitment to empowering and amplifying African voices. The platform has become a hub for creative expression and storytelling, with many African creators using TikTok to showcase their talents, share their experiences, and connect with a global audience. The list features a diverse range of individuals, including musicians, artists, comedians, and activists. These visionaries are using TikTok to push boundaries, challenge norms, and inspire others. By recognizing their contributions, TikTok aims to further amplify their voices and provide a platform for them to reach a wider audience. TikTok\’s Visionary Voices List for Africa is part of the platform\’s broader efforts to support and celebrate African creativity. The initiative demonstrates TikTok\’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and highlights the importance of representation and cultural exchange in the digital age.   5. Remini AI App surpasses ChatGPT as the most Downloaded AI in the world Remini, an AI photo enhancer app, has become the most downloaded AI app, surpassing ChatGPT with a 10 million download gap. The app\’s popularity highlights the growing demand for AI-powered tools in the tech industry. Remini\’s success demonstrates the potential for

FG Set to Launch Cutting-Edge Data Center by May 29th The Federal Government has announced plans to launch a state-of-the-art data center capable of storing up to 1.4 petabytes of data by May 29, 2024. This move is aimed at enhancing the country\’s data management capabilities and promoting digital transformation. The new data center will provide a secure and efficient platform for storing and processing large volumes of data, supporting the government\’s digital agenda and driving economic growth. The data center, which is expected to be one of the most advanced in the region, will play a critical role in supporting the country\’s digital economy. It will provide a robust and reliable infrastructure for data storage and management, enabling businesses, organizations, and individuals to store and process large amounts of data efficiently and securely. This will help to drive innovation, improve productivity, and support economic growth. The launch of the data center is a significant milestone in the government\’s digital transformation journey and demonstrates its commitment to leveraging technology to drive economic growth and development.   Lagos Establishes Cybersecurity Operations Centre (CSOC) The Lagos State Government has taken a significant step forward in protecting its digital infrastructure by establishing a Cybersecurity Operations Centre (CSOC). This cutting-edge facility will serve as the hub for monitoring, detecting, and responding to cyber threats in real time, ensuring the state\’s online assets are safe and secure. The CSOC will employ advanced technologies and a team of expert cybersecurity professionals to identify and mitigate potential threats, reducing the risk of cyber-attacks and data breaches. This proactive approach will help safeguard the state\’s critical infrastructure, protect citizen data, and foster a secure environment for businesses and individuals to thrive.   Nigerian Copyright Commission Sues MTN Nigeria for Copyright Infringement The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has filed a lawsuit against MTN Nigeria Communications Ltd. and four others for alleged copyright infringement. The commission\’s legal team has requested permission from the Federal High Court in Abuja to serve court processes on Karl Toriola, MTN Nigeria\’s Chief Executive Officer, through his legal representatives. The lawsuit alleges that MTN Nigeria used musical works and sound recordings of artiste Maleke as Caller Ring Back Tunes without obtaining the necessary authorization. Additionally, the company is accused of distributing the musical works to its subscribers without permission, thereby infringing on the artiste\’s rights. The NCC also claims that MTN Nigeria possessed other copyrighted materials without permission, which is a violation of the Copyright Act. The alleged offenses are punishable under section 20 (2) (a) (b) and (c) of the Copyright Act, Cap. C28, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The NCC is seeking legal action to protect the rights of creators and owners of intellectual property in Nigeria.   Microsoft and G42 to Build $1 Billion Geothermal-Powered Data Center in Kenya Microsoft Corporation and G42, a leading artificial intelligence company in the United Arab Emirates, have announced a partnership to build a $1 billion geothermal-powered data center in Kenya. The facility will be located in Olkaria, an area rich in geothermal resources, making it an ideal location for Microsoft\’s climate goals. The data center will have a capacity of 100 megawatts in its first phase and is expected to be operational in two years. The project aims to boost cloud-computing capacity in East Africa, where power outages are common. The partnership demonstrates Microsoft\’s commitment to deepening and embedding digital technology in Kenya\’s future. The project will require up to one gigawatt of electricity from the grid, and the full project is expected to be completed in phases. The collaboration is a significant milestone in the growth of digital infrastructure in East Africa and will provide a reliable and sustainable source of power for cloud computing in the region. The signing of the letter of intent, facilitated by the US and UAE governments, marks a significant step forward in the project\’s development. The partnership between Microsoft, G42, and the Kenyan government is expected to drive economic growth and promote digital transformation in the region.   Google Announces Umoja, a New Fiber Optic Cable to Connect Africa to Australia Tech giant Google has announced plans to build a new fiber optic cable called Umoja, which will connect Africa to Australia, improving internet connectivity on the continent. The cable will be anchored in Kenya and pass through several African countries, including Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, before crossing the Indian Ocean to Australia. The Umoja cable is part of Google\’s Africa Connect initiative, which aims to improve internet connectivity and reliability in the region. The new cable will provide a highly scalable route through Africa, with access points that will allow other countries to take advantage of the network. This will enable African countries to more reliably connect with each other and the rest of the world. The Umoja cable will also incorporate the Google Cloud region in South Africa, ensuring robust cloud service connectivity. Google has partnered with Liquid Technologies to build the terrestrial path of the cable, which will provide a resilient network for a region that has historically experienced high-impact outages. The Umoja cable is a significant investment in Africa\’s digital infrastructure and will help to drive economic growth and development in the region.   Maëlle Gavet Steps Down as TechStars CEO Due to Health Reasons Maëlle Gavet, the Chief Executive Officer of TechStars, has announced her departure from the company, citing health reasons. Gavet\’s tenure will officially end at the end of May 2024. David Cohen, co-founder of TechStars, will return as CEO. During Gavet\’s leadership, TechStars made significant strides, investing in over 2,000 startups and raising $2.4 billion in funding for its portfolio companies in 2023 alone. However, the company faced challenges in balancing growth with profitability and experienced strained relationships with corporate partners, resulting in a loss of clients. Gavet\’s health issues are a recurrence of a previous condition, having undergone thyroid surgery 11 years ago to remove cancerous nodules.

TikTok Users Sue US Government, Citing First Amendment Violations Over Biden\’s Statute A group of eight TikTok users has taken legal action against the US federal government, alleging that a statute signed by President Joe Biden violates their First Amendment rights. The users claim that the statute, aimed at regulating online content, unfairly restricts their freedom of speech and expression. They argue that the statute\’s vague language and broad scope could lead to censorship and suppression of legitimate online activities, including their own creative content on TikTok. The lawsuit contends that the statute\’s ambiguity and overreach could chill online expression, as users may self-censor to avoid potential legal repercussions. The plaintiffs seek a declaratory judgment that the statute is unconstitutional and an injunction to prevent its enforcement. This legal challenge raises important questions about the balance between online regulation and individual liberties in the digital age, and its outcome may have significant implications for online speech and creativity. Google Unveils AI-Powered Features on Android Phones for Enhanced User Experience Tech giant Google is revolutionizing the Android experience with a suite of AI-driven features, designed to enhance user safety, productivity, and overall interaction. The latest rollout includes Gemini Nano, a cutting-edge live scam detection system, utilizes machine learning algorithms to identify and alert users to potential threats in real time. The update also introduces the Gemini 1.5 language model, an upgraded language processing AI, enabling more accurate and context-aware interactions with Google Assistant. Additionally, a brand-new voice assistant, leveraging advanced AI capabilities to provide more personalized and intuitive support, is being launched. Furthermore, Circle to Search, an innovative homework assistance tool, uses AI to help users find relevant information and answers. The update also includes AI scam protection, a comprehensive safeguard against various types of scams, including phishing, fraud, and more. Lastly, the role of Gemini on Android phones has been enhanced, integrating AI-driven features seamlessly into the user interface. These AI-powered features aim to transform the Android experience, providing users with a safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable mobile experience.   Flutterwave Assures Customers of Fund Safety Amid Security Breach Concerns Flutterwave, a leading Nigerian fintech company, has recently addressed concerns about a security breach on its system, reassuring customers that their funds remain safe and secure. The company detected unusual activities on one of its platforms in April 2024, which led to the discovery of the breach. Although the incident allegedly resulted in the loss of ₦11 billion (approximately $7.2 million), Flutterwave maintains that customers\’ funds were not compromised. Flutterwave promptly informed law enforcement agencies and provided them with the IP address and details of the offenders, ensuring swift action to mitigate the situation. Additionally, the company notified its regulator, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), about the incident, demonstrating its commitment to transparency and accountability. In response to the breach, Flutterwave has taken decisive steps to enhance security features on the affected platform, safeguarding customers\’ interests. As an extra precaution, the company is migrating some customers to another platform to ensure their continued safety and peace of mind. While this incident is not the first security challenge Flutterwave has faced – having experienced an unauthorized transfer incident in March 2023, resulting in the loss of over ₦2.9 billion – the company\’s proactive response and commitment to customer security are reassuring. Flutterwave\’s swift action and transparency have helped maintain customer trust and confidence in the company\’s services.   NCC Suspends Issuance of Licenses in Three Categories, Citing Market Review The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced the temporary suspension of issuing communication licenses in three categories, effective May 17, 2024. The affected categories are: – Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) – Interconnect Exchange – Value Added Service Aggregator   This suspension is a proactive measure to allow the Commission to conduct a comprehensive review of the current market dynamics, competition level, and saturation in these categories. The NCC aims to assess the existing landscape, identify potential issues, and develop strategies to promote a healthier and more competitive market environment. During the suspension period, the NCC will not accept new applications for these licenses. However, pending applications will be evaluated on their merits, and decisions will be made accordingly. This temporary suspension demonstrates the NCC\’s commitment to ensuring a robust and sustainable telecommunications industry in Nigeria. The review process will involve stakeholder engagement, market analysis, and assessments to determine the best course of action for the industry\’s growth and development. The NCC will provide updates and guidance as necessary, and the public is encouraged to stay informed about developments in this regard.   EU Commission Launches Investigation into Facebook and Instagram over Child Safety Concerns The European Union Commission has initiated an investigation into the operations of two Meta platforms, Facebook and Instagram, citing concerns about the safety of children using the platforms. This move comes as part of the EU\’s efforts to ensure that tech companies comply with its stringent regulations on child protection and online safety. The investigation will focus on whether Facebook and Instagram have taken adequate measures to protect children from harmful content, including hate speech, cyberbullying, and online predators. The EU Commission will also assess whether the platforms have implemented sufficient safeguards to prevent children from accessing inappropriate content and to address concerns about addiction and mental health. This probe is part of the EU\’s broader efforts to hold tech companies accountable for their impact on society, particularly when it comes to the well-being of children and young people. The EU\’s new Digital Services Act, which came into effect in 2024, gives the Commission increased powers to investigate and sanction tech companies that fail to comply with its rules. Meta faces potential fines and other penalties if found to be in violation of EU regulations. The company will need to demonstrate that it has taken concrete steps to address child safety concerns and ensure that its platforms are safe and secure for all users, including children and young people.   Nigeria to Establish Nigerian

Airtel Nigeria\’s SmartCash Payment Service Bank Achieves Milestone   Airtel Nigeria\’s SmartCash Payment Service Bank (PSB) has reached a significant milestone, recording 1.5 million active users as of March 31, 2024. This achievement marks a substantial growth in the company\’s mobile money business, demonstrating its commitment to expanding financial inclusion in Nigeria. Annualized Transaction Valued at 15% growth in Q1 2024 compared to the previous quarter and added almost 39,000 agents in Q1 2024, reaching a total of 205,000 agents Airtel Nigeria\’s active mobile subscriptions stood at 63.4 million as of March 2024, indicating vast potential for mobile money services. This expansion highlights Airtel Nigeria\’s dedication to providing innovative financial solutions and promoting digital payments in the country. The growth of SmartCash PSB is expected to continue, fostering financial inclusion and bridging the gap for underserved communities. NCC Partners with Nokia to Empower Young Nigerians with 4G/5G Technologies The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nokia Solutions and Networks Nigeria to equip young Nigerians with the latest 4G and 5G radio and transmission technologies. This collaboration aims to promote digital literacy and develop a skilled workforce in the telecommunications sector. The training program will be held across the country at the Commission\’s Digital Parks, ensuring widespread reach and accessibility. Nokia Nigeria will establish a fully functional 5G/4G test lab, utilizing cutting-edge radio and transmission technologies andwill implement an Entrepreneur Learning Program, providing high-quality vocational training to 200 Nigerian students from diverse regions. This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy\’s objective to achieve 90% digital literacy by 2030, promoting inclusive economic growth and development by building a pipeline of technical talents, this partnership will empower young Nigerians to drive innovation and contribute to the country\’s digital transformation. This partnership demonstrates the NCC\’s commitment to fostering a digitally skilled workforce, enhancing Nigeria\’s telecommunications sector, and promoting economic growth through strategic collaborations.   United States to Deploy Cybercrime Advisor in Nigeria The United States has announced plans to deploy a cybercrime advisor in Nigeria to strengthen cooperation between the two nations in combating cyber threats. This move aims to enhance Nigeria\’s capacity to address cybercrimes, including fraud scams and sextortion, and reinforce efforts against cyber-enabled money laundering and fraud. The cybercrime advisor will provide training, equipment, and technical assistance to Nigerian law enforcement agencies to enhance their capabilities in investigating and prosecuting cybercrimes and this deployment is part of a broader effort to foster international cooperation in combating cyber threats, including fraud scams and sextortion, which often have transnational dimensions. The joint effort will focus on disrupting cyber-enabled money laundering and fraud schemes, which pose significant threats to financial stability and security. The deployment is funded by the US Department of State\’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), which supports global efforts to combat cybercrime and promote cybersecurity. The cybercrime advisor will facilitate closer collaboration between US and Nigerian law enforcement agencies, enabling them to share expertise, best practices, and intelligence to combat cyber threats more effectively.   Apple to Integrate OpenAI\’s Technology into iPhones, Marking a Significant AI Milestone Apple Inc. is reportedly finalizing a groundbreaking agreement with OpenAI, a leading artificial intelligence (AI) startup, to incorporate the latter\’s technology into the iPhone. This move marks a significant step forward in Apple\’s AI strategy, aiming to revolutionize the user experience with cutting-edge AI features. The deal is expected to integrate ChatGPT features into iOS 18, the upcoming iPhone operating system, enabling users to interact with their devices in a more conversational and intuitive way. Apple\’s CEO, Tim Cook, has emphasized the company\’s commitment to AI, highlighting its potential to transform the user experience and create new opportunities for innovation and also plans  to leverage its proprietary data centers, equipped with custom processors, to support the upcoming AI features, ensuring a seamless and secure experience. Apple\’s unique advantage lies in its ability to integrate AI across its ecosystem, creating a cohesive and user-friendly experience across devices and services and with Google and other tech giants also investing in AI, Apple\’s partnership with OpenAI signals its determination to remain at the forefront of AI innovation and user experience. The deal is expected to be announced at Apple\’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, where the company will unveil its latest AI initiatives and advancements.   You might also want to see the Tech news update for the first week of April, 2024   Neuralink\’s First Brain Implant Malfunctions, Company Scrambles to Fix Issues Neuralink, Elon Musk\’s neurotechnology company, has revealed that its first brain implant device malfunctioned weeks after being surgically implanted in a human patient. The device, designed to read and write neural signals, experienced a technical issue that reduced its signal-capturing capabilities. The implant\’s connective threads, responsible for reading brain signals, retracted from the brain, causing a decline in signal detection. The issue arose weeks after the surgery, prompting Neuralink to investigate and develop a solution. The patient Noland Arbaugh, 29, was the first human patient to receive the Neuralink implant. Arbaugh suffered a spinal cord injury in a diving accident in 2016, resulting in quadriplegia. The Neuralink\’s N1 device is a small, quarter-sized implant that is fully implanted on the skull. It features 64 ultra-thin threads with tiny electrodes that detect neural signals from the brain\’s motor cortex. The company is working to refine its technology and address any issues that arise during its clinical trials. Neuralink modified an algorithm to improve signal detection and translation Neuralink\’s ultimate goal is to enable people, including those with severe paralysis, to control devices with their thoughts. This development highlights the challenges and complexities of developing brain-computer interface technology. Neuralink\’s prompt response to addressing the issue demonstrates its commitment to improving its technology and ensuring the safety and efficacy of its devices.   Microsoft and OpenAI Launch $2 Million Societal Resilience Fund to Combat AI Misinformation Microsoft and OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, have announced a joint initiative

MTN Nigeria\’s Fintech Business Sees Modest Growth in Q1, Reaching N22.8 Billion MTN Nigeria, the leading telecommunications company in the country, has announced a marginal increase in its fintech business revenue for the first quarter (Q1) of this year. The fintech arm of the company recorded a revenue of N22.8 billion, representing a modest growth from the previous quarter. This increase is a positive sign for the company, which has been investing heavily in its fintech services, including mobile money, digital payments, and other financial solutions. The growth in fintech revenue is likely driven by the increasing adoption of digital financial services in Nigeria, as well as MTN\’s expanding user base and improving network coverage. The fintech business of MTN Nigeria has been a key area of focus for the company in recent years, as it seeks to leverage its vast customer base and extensive network to provide innovative financial solutions to individuals and businesses. With this modest growth in Q1, MTN Nigeria is well-positioned to continue its momentum in the fintech space and potentially explore new opportunities for expansion and innovation.   As the Nigerian fintech landscape continues to evolve, MTN Nigeria\’s fintech business is likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping the country\’s digital financial ecosystem. With its extensive resources and expertise, the company is well-equipped to drive growth and innovation in the fintech sector, and its Q1 results are a promising sign of things to come. NAEC and ABU Collaborate to Harness Nuclear Power for Enhanced Electricity Generation in Nigeria The Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) has embarked on a groundbreaking partnership with the Centre for Energy Research and Training (CERT) at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, to explore the potential of nuclear science and technology in strengthening electric power generation in Nigeria. This collaborative effort aims to leverage the vast capabilities of nuclear technology to address the country\’s pressing energy needs. The joint initiative seeks to develop innovative applications of nuclear technology in various sectors, including medical and human health, food and agriculture, water resources management, and energy sector applications. By harnessing the power of nuclear science, NAEC and ABU aim to create sustainable solutions for Nigeria\’s energy challenges, promoting economic growth, and improving the quality of life for citizens. Through this partnership, NAEC and ABU will combine their expertise and resources to conduct research, develop new technologies, and provide training and capacity-building programs for professionals in the energy sector. This collaboration has the potential to position Nigeria at the forefront of nuclear technology adoption in Africa, driving progress and innovation in the energy landscape. Tech News Update For The Fourth Week Of February Chowdeck Raises $2.5M Seed Funding to Optimize Operations & Expansion Efforts in Nigeria Chowdeck, Nigeria\’s innovative on-demand delivery service, has announced a significant milestone in its growth journey, securing $2.5 million in seed funding. This investment will be instrumental in optimizing the company\’s operations, enhancing its technology infrastructure, and supporting its expansion into more cities across Nigeria. The funding, led by a consortium of investors, is a testament to Chowdeck\’s potential to revolutionize the logistics and delivery landscape in Nigeria. The company\’s user-friendly platform and efficient delivery services have already resonated with customers, and this investment will enable Chowdeck to further improve its offerings and reach a wider audience. With this funding, Chowdeck plans to enhance its technology infrastructure, expand its team, and enter new markets, bringing its innovative delivery solutions to more customers and businesses across Nigeria. This development is poised to have a positive impact on the country\’s e-commerce ecosystem, supporting the growth of local businesses and improving the overall shopping experience for consumers. As Chowdeck continues to innovate and expand, it is well-positioned to play a leading role in shaping the future of logistics and delivery services in Nigeria, and this seed funding marks an exciting new chapter in the company\’s journey Google Opens Applications for 8th Cohort of Google for Startups Accelerator Africa Program Tech giant Google has announced the opening of applications for the 8th cohort of its prestigious Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. This esteemed program is designed to support and empower innovative startups across the African continent, providing them with the resources and expertise needed to succeed in the competitive tech landscape. The Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program is a 10-week equity-free accelerator program tailored for Seed to Series A startups based in Africa or developing Africa-centered solutions. The program offers a comprehensive package of support, including access to Google\’s global network, mentorship from industry experts, and training on cutting-edge technologies like AI, machine learning, and cloud computing. Startups from 17 African countries, including Algeria, Botswana, Cameroon, Côte D\’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, are eligible to apply. The program has already made a significant impact on the African startup ecosystem, with alumni companies going on to raise millions of dollars in funding and create thousands of jobs across the continent. By opening applications for the 8th cohort, Google is reaffirming its commitment to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa and providing opportunities for startups to grow and thrive in the region. If you\’re a startup founder with a vision for changing the world, this could be your chance to take your business to the next level with the support of Google for Startups Accelerator Africa. OpenAI and Financial Times Announce Groundbreaking Partnership to Advance AI Capabilities OpenAI, the pioneering artificial intelligence research laboratory, has entered into a significant partnership with the esteemed Financial Times (FT), a leading global financial news organization. This collaboration marks a major milestone in the development of AI technology, as OpenAI will leverage FT\’s vast content archive to train its AI models and co-create innovative AI products and features. Under the terms of the partnership, FT will license its extensive library of articles, analysis, and data to OpenAI, enabling the AI company to enhance its language processing capabilities and generate more accurate and informative text,

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1. NDPC Investigates 17 Data Breach Cases across Diverse Sectors The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) is the supervisory and regulatory authority for data protection in Nigeria, established under the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 (NDPA). The NDPA replaced the Nigerian Data Protection Regulations 2019 and the NDPB, which were the previous legal frameworks for data protection in Nigeria. The NDPA aims to protect the rights and privacy of data subjects, ensure compliance with data protection principles and obligations, and promote trust in the digital economy. The NDPC has the power to investigate, monitor, and enforce data protection matters, as well as issue guidance, codes of conduct, and sanctions for data breaches. In February 2024, the NDPC announced that it was actively investigating 17 major cases of data breaches across various sectors, including finance, technology, education, consulting, government, logistics, and gaming/lottery. The NDPC stated that it was committed to holding data controllers and processors accountable for their data protection responsibilities, and urged them to implement adequate security measures and policies to prevent unauthorized access, disclosure, or loss of personal data.   2. Government Announces Plan to Digitize Public Services and Protect Data According to a press conference held on January 29, 2024, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, announced that the Federal Government plans to digitize all public services to improve efficiency, transparency, and security. He said that President Bola Tinubu has given the Ministry the mandate to transform public services with technology. The Minister also emphasized the importance of data protection in a digitalized economy and said that the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) would be responsible for ensuring compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 (NDPA). The NDPA is the legal framework for data protection in Nigeria, which replaced the previous regulations in 2023. The NDPA aims to protect the rights and privacy of data subjects and promote trust in the digital economy. The Minister also urged data controllers and processors to implement adequate security measures and policies to prevent unauthorized access, disclosure, or loss of personal data. He said that the NDPC was actively investigating 17 major cases of data breaches across various sectors, including finance, technology, education, consulting, government, logistics, and gaming/lottery.   3. Tech4Dev Launches DigitalForAll Challenge with N150 Million Reward The DigitalForAll Challenge is a platform designed to reward self-development and encourage the acquisition and use of digital skills. The challenge is open to Nigerians who are 18 years or older, and who want to learn and apply digital skills in various categories such as web development, data science, graphic design, digital marketing, and more. The challenge will run for 12 weeks, starting from February 5, 2024, and will offer up to N150 million in cash and consolation prizes for the top performers in each category. The DigitalForAll Challenge is an initiative of Tech4Dev, a non-profit social enterprise that creates access to decent work and entrepreneurship opportunities for Africans through digital skills development. Tech4Dev partners with Microsoft, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and other stakeholders to deliver the challenge and promote digital literacy and inclusion in Nigeria.   Click here to read through the tech news update for last week   4. Meet the 10 Startups Selected for 4IRTA in Agriculture Grants  The Fourth Industrial Revolution Technology Application (4IRTA) in Agriculture is a program initiated by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to support market-ready innovations that leverage 4IR technologies (UAVs, IoT, AI, and Blockchain) to enhance productivity in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The program aims to support President Bola Tinubu’s mandate to cultivate 500,000 hectares of land across Nigeria to boost food security. The Ministry announced the 10 shortlisted startups for the program on January 26, 2024, after receiving 2,329 applications and conducting two rounds of reviews. The selected startups will receive up to N10 million in funding to deepen the application of 4IR technologies in their work. The Ministry of Agriculture is expected to provide support to the selected pilot farms and navigate a path to scale and sustainability. The 10 selected startups are: Aerial Precision: It proposes a solution for smallholder maize farming utilizing drone technology throughout the maize farming cycle to collect real-time data and provide tailored recommendations. It will also use UAVs for fertilizing and applying crop protection products, aiming to address challenges such as pest outbreaks, labor scarcity, and health risks, with a focus on stakeholder engagement for widespread adoption and scalability in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Ranch.ID LivestockPro: This is a farm management tool that utilizes loT technology and the National Animal Identification and Traceability system, providing real-time data on livestock activities, location, health, and vaccinations to enhance productivity and decision-making processes, with sophisticated devices ensuring continuous monitoring and prompt medical intervention for optimal livestock management. Agri-Wing Project: This is a drone-based solution that uses AI and computer vision to monitor and detect crop diseases, pests, and weeds, and provide timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations. It also uses UAVs for precision spraying of pesticides and herbicides, reducing costs and environmental impacts. Precision Farm Management: This is a web-based platform that uses IoT and AI to provide farmers with real-time data and insights on soil moisture, temperature, humidity, rainfall, and crop growth, and enable smart irrigation and fertilization based on crop needs and weather forecasts. It also uses blockchain technology to provide traceability and transparency of the agricultural value chain. Automated loT-Based Irrigation System: This is a solution that uses IoT sensors and actuators to monitor and control the water level and flow rate of irrigation systems, and optimize water usage and crop yield. It also uses AI and cloud computing to analyze the data and provide feedback and recommendations to the farmers. Geospatial Intelligence model for enhanced prediction of crop yield and crop stress assessment: This is a solution that uses satellite imagery and AI to estimate crop yield and detect crop stress such as drought, flood, and disease, and provide early warning and