Meta to halt Political Ads in EU over new transparency law

Meta has announced it will stop selling and displaying political ads across the European Union starting this October, citing difficulties in complying with new EU regulations.

The tech giant made the announcement on Friday in response to the EU’s upcoming Transparency and Targeting of Political Advertising (TTPA) law. In a blog post, Meta described the legislation as “unworkable,” saying it introduces excessive obligations that create “an untenable level of complexity and legal uncertainty” for platforms and advertisers operating in the EU.

The TTPA, adopted by the European Commission in 2024, requires all political advertisements to be clearly labeled with details about the sponsor, the related election or referendum, the cost of the ad, and the targeting criteria used. The law also mandates that user data can only be used for political advertising with explicit consent and bans the use of sensitive data like political opinions or racial and ethnic information for profiling.

Read Also: Apple updates App Store age ratings for child safety

Meta said it had held extensive consultations with EU officials but ultimately determined that complying with the law would force it to provide a political ad service that “doesn’t work for advertisers or users” or exit the space altogether.

“Once again, we’re seeing regulatory obligations effectively remove popular products and services from the market, reducing choice and competition,” Meta wrote in the blog post.

Meta is not alone in this stance. Google has also stated it will halt political advertising in the EU by October, echoing similar concerns about operational challenges and legal ambiguity under the new law.

The move is the latest development in a growing series of clashes between the European Union and major tech firms. The EU has been actively tightening rules around data privacy, AI governance, ad tracking, and digital competition to curb Big Tech’s influence across the region.

With political campaigns increasingly moving online, the impact of Meta and Google pulling political ads could reshape digital campaigning strategies ahead of future EU elections.

Apple updates App Store age ratings for child safety

Apple has announced a significant overhaul of its App Store age-rating system, expanding its classifications and introducing new requirements for developers as part of a broader push to enhance child safety online.

The tech giant revealed on Thursday that it is replacing its previous 12+ and 17+ age categories with new 13+, 16+, and 18+ ratings, while maintaining the existing 4+ and 9+ options. The changes are already live in the public beta versions of Apple’s latest operating systems — iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, tvOS 26, visionOS 26, and watchOS 26 — and will roll out to all users this September.

In addition to the revised age tiers, developers are now required to answer an updated set of content-related questions when submitting or updating apps on the App Store. These questions cover topics such as violence, medical and wellness themes, in-app capabilities, and parental control features. Apple will then use the responses to calculate an appropriate age rating for each app, which developers can review and adjust via App Store Connect.

Read Also: OpenAI unveils ChatGPT Agent Mode that can Think and Act

Apple says it has already applied the updated rating system to all existing apps and games in the App Store. The goal is to provide more accurate and transparent guidance for parents while preventing children from accessing content deemed inappropriate for their age.

To further enforce age-appropriate experiences, the App Store will limit where certain apps appear. For instance, apps with higher age ratings will not be featured in editorial content, or in the “Today,” “Games,” or “Apps” tabs for child users.

This update forms part of Apple’s broader child safety initiative, first announced earlier this year. Alongside the new age ratings, Apple is simplifying the process of setting up child accounts and encouraging parents to share their child’s age information — which will be relayed to developers to tailor content appropriately.

Importantly, Apple has created a new developer API that allows app makers to access age-range data without collecting a child’s actual birth date, helping preserve user privacy. This data, entered by parents during device setup, is expected to be more reliable than information entered directly by children within apps.

Developers must opt into this API to access age-range data for customization purposes. Those who fail to adopt the new system may see reduced visibility and distribution of their apps, especially if the content isn’t aligned with the revised age guidelines.

The move comes as lawmakers across the U.S. intensify efforts to regulate children’s online experiences, with several states proposing legislation that would require parental consent before minors can download certain apps. While companies like Apple and Google have generally argued that age verification should be handled by app developers, some lawmakers and rival tech firms are pushing for app store operators to take more direct responsibility.

Apple’s revised age-rating system is positioned as a middle-ground solution, aiming to support regulatory goals while protecting user privacy and enhancing safety for younger users across its platforms.

Google unveils $37m investment, opens new AI Community Center in Accra

Google has outlined a wave of AI support across Africa, representing $37 million in cumulative funding — including previously committed but unannounced funding — to research, talent development, and infrastructure. The funding package includes funding and partnerships that aim to strengthen AI research, support African languages, improve food systems, expand digital skills, and build research capacity.

The AI Collaborative for Food Security, a multi-partner initiative launched with $25 million in funding from Google.org will bring together researchers, and nonprofit organizations to co-develop AI tools for early hunger forecasting, crop resilience, and tailored guidance for smallholder farmers. The goal is to help make food systems across Africa more adaptive, equitable, and resilient in the face of increasing climate and economic shocks.

Google also announced $3 million in funding to the Masakhane Research Foundation, the open research collective advancing AI tools in over 40 African languages. The funding will support the development of high-quality datasets, machine translation models, and speech tools that make digital content more accessible to millions of Africans in their native languages.

To further empower innovation, Google is launching a catalytic funding initiative to support AI-driven startups tackling real-world challenges. This platform will combine philanthropic capital, venture investment, and Google’s technical expertise to help more than 100 early-stage ventures scale AI-based solutions in agriculture, healthcare, education, and other vital sectors. Startups will also receive mentorship, access to tools, and technical guidance to support responsible development.

Africa’s AI talent is growing rapidly, but the infrastructure to support it must grow in tandem. That’s why a cornerstone of this announcement is the launch of the AI Community Center in Accra — a first-of-its-kind space for AI learning, experimentation, and collaboration in Africa. The Center will host training sessions, community events, and workshops focused on responsible AI development. Its programming will span four pillars: AI literacy, community technology, social impact, and arts and culture — providing a platform for a diverse ecosystem of developers, students, and creators to engage with AI in ways that are grounded in African priorities.

To help meet the rising demand for AI and digital skills, Google is rolling out 100,000 Google Career Certificate scholarships for students in higher learning institutions across Ghana. These fully funded, self-paced programs will focus on AI Essentials, Prompting Essentials, and other high-growth fields like IT Support, Data Analytics, and Cybersecurity — enabling more learners to access job-ready training and build careers in AI and the digital economy.

Read Also: Google launches Hustle Academy 2025 for African SMBs

Beyond Ghana, Google.org is committing an additional $7 million to support AI education across Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Ghana. The funding will support academic institutions and nonprofits building localized AI curricula, online safety training, and cybersecurity programs.

Additionally, two new $1 million grants from Google.org aim to bolster AI research capacity across the continent. One grant goes to the African Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AfriDSAI) at the University of Pretoria to support applied AI research and training. The other supports the Wits Machine Intelligence and Neural Discovery (MIND) Institute in South Africa, which will fund MSc and PhD students to conduct foundational AI research and help shape Africa’s role in the global AI landscape.

Speaking about the announcements, James Manyika, Senior Vice President for Research, Labs, and Technology & Society at Google, said: “Africa is home to some of the most important and inspiring work in AI today. We are committed to supporting the next wave of innovation through long-term investment, local partnerships, and platforms that help researchers and entrepreneurs build solutions that matter.”

Yossi Matias, Vice President of Engineering and Research at Google, added: “This new wave of support reflects our belief in the talent, creativity, and ingenuity across the continent. By building with local communities and institutions, we’re supporting solutions that are rooted in Africa’s realities and built for global impact.”

These new initiatives build on Google’s ongoing work across the continent. Past efforts have included partnerships to support AI-powered maternal health dashboards in Ghana and Nigeria, wildfire alerts in East Africa, and regional language models developed by teams in Accra and Nairobi. They also reflect Google’s continued focus on shared infrastructure, open research, and inclusive innovation that ensures AI works for everyone.

OpenAI unveils ChatGPT Agent Mode that can Think and Act

OpenAI has introduced a powerful new feature for ChatGPT that allows the AI chatbot to not only generate responses, but also carry out complex tasks and actions on a user’s behalf. The update, announced Thursday, marks a significant step toward turning ChatGPT into a full-fledged AI assistant capable of managing everyday digital tasks.

The newly launched agent mode, which is now rolling out to users on the Pro, Plus, and Team plans, allows ChatGPT to “think” and “act” using a virtual computer. According to OpenAI, this means users can now issue detailed instructions like, “check my calendar and brief me on upcoming meetings,” or “plan and order groceries to make Japanese breakfast for four.”

In a demonstration video, OpenAI showed the AI handling a multifaceted request to prepare for a wedding — including selecting appropriate outfits, finding hotel accommodations, and considering schedule buffers.

The agent mode is powered by a combination of existing OpenAI tools: ChatGPT Operator, which enables real-time web browsing, and Deep Research, which analyzes and compiles information from various online sources.

Read Also: Google launches Hustle Academy 2025 for African SMBs

This upgrade intensifies the ongoing competition in the AI space, particularly between OpenAI and Google, which is developing similar assistant capabilities under its Gemini project. Apple is also working on an enhanced version of Siri that can interact with apps, though its release timeline remains uncertain.

Despite the innovation, OpenAI acknowledged the new tool’s limitations and potential risks. In a blog post, the company stated that the agent mode has restricted access to user data and will not perform sensitive tasks—such as sending emails or handling bank transfers—without explicit user approval.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman also weighed in on the release, calling it “cutting edge and experimental.” In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Altman urged users to remain cautious when giving the AI access to personal data, suggesting it might be suitable for tasks like scheduling group dinners but not yet for high-stakes or deeply personal activities.

The rollout reflects a broader push among tech giants to reshape how users interact with technology. Instead of switching between apps or manually searching the web, AI agents could one day serve as all-in-one digital assistants capable of navigating the digital world with minimal user input.

As companies race to expand AI capabilities, issues of data privacy, bias, and unpredictable behavior continue to be pressing concerns. Just last week, xAI’s chatbot Grok faced backlash after producing antisemitic content when prompted—a reminder of the ethical challenges that come with deploying powerful AI tools in real-world scenarios.

With the introduction of ChatGPT’s agent mode, OpenAI is taking a bold step toward the future of productivity—albeit one that comes with a call for careful testing and responsible use.

Google unveils two Gemini’s new AI-powered features

Google has introduced two groundbreaking features to its advanced AI model, Gemini: Canvas and Audio Overview. 

These innovations aim to transform the way users collaborate, create, and engage with digital content, reinforcing Gemini’s role as a powerful tool for productivity and creativity.

Dave Citron, Senior Director of Product Management for Gemini Apps, highlighted the significance of the update, stating that Gemini is evolving into an even more powerful partner for creativity and productivity. 

With Canvas and Audio Overview, users now have intuitive tools to refine their work, learn more effectively, and bring their ideas to life.

Canvas is an interactive workspace designed to streamline document and code creation. It offers real-time writing, editing, and refining capabilities, allowing users to work more efficiently with AI-driven feedback and intelligent editing suggestions. 

The feature enables seamless document refinement, allowing users to generate high-quality drafts, adjust tone and style, and export their work directly to Google Docs for enhanced collaboration. 

It also enhances the coding experience by helping developers and learners transform ideas into working prototypes for web apps, Python scripts, and more. 

The platform supports HTML and React previews, enabling seamless iterative development. Canvas is now available to Gemini and Gemini Advanced subscribers in all supported languages.

Audio Overview introduces a revolutionary way to consume information by converting documents, slides, and research reports into AI-generated, podcast-style discussions. 

It generates conversations between AI hosts who summarize, analyze, and provide unique insights on uploaded content. This feature enhances accessibility by catering to multitasking professionals and students, allowing them to absorb complex information effortlessly via the web or the Gemini mobile app. 

Currently available in English for Gemini and Gemini Advanced subscribers, additional language support is expected soon.

Read Also: Google launches first cloud region in Africa, accelerating digital transformation

Google’s latest enhancements to Gemini reinforce its commitment to advancing AI-driven collaboration and content engagement. 

With Canvas and Audio Overview, users can work smarter, refine content more efficiently, and consume information in a more interactive and engaging way.

As Citron noted, there has been tremendous excitement around Audio Overview in NotebookLM, and Google is thrilled to bring this innovative feature to Gemini. 

The technology transforms how people engage with complex information, making learning more accessible and enjoyable.

These updates expand Gemini’s capabilities in AI-powered productivity. Canvas provides real-time collaboration and intelligent editing for documents and code, while Audio Overview delivers AI-generated podcast-style discussions for content summarization. 

By streamlining workflows for content creation, coding, and learning, Google continues to push the boundaries of AI-driven creativity and efficiency. Canvas is available in all languages, while Audio Overview is launching in English first, with more languages to follow.

With these updates, Gemini continues to evolve as a leading AI tool for creativity and efficiency. Users can explore these new features at gemini.google.com.

Google launches first cloud region in Africa, accelerating digital transformation

Google Cloud has officially celebrated the launch of its first African cloud region in Johannesburg, marking a major step in the company’s $1 billion commitment to accelerating Africa’s digital transformation.

Having been operational since January 2024, the Johannesburg cloud region provides businesses and organizations with advanced AI, machine learning, and data analytics tools, enhancing operational efficiency and driving innovation across various sectors. The initiative aims to empower African enterprises and multinational corporations by offering improved security solutions and fostering economic growth.

The Johannesburg cloud region is part of Google’s broader investment in Africa’s digital infrastructure. In May 2024, Google Cloud unveiled Umoja, a new fiber optic cable connecting Kenya to Australia. Along with the Equiano cable and the newly launched cloud region, these projects form Africa Connect, a strategic initiative designed to enhance network speed, reliability, and affordability across the continent.

Speaking at the launch, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa lauded the development, stating, “The Google Cloud region in Johannesburg is a valuable investment in South Africa, fostering innovation across our economy. Google’s growing presence will benefit the people of South Africa and the rest of Africa by allowing firms and entrepreneurs to access the powerful potential of AI, transforming nearly every part of the economy.”

Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Google’s commitment to Africa’s digital future. “By bringing cutting-edge cloud and AI technologies closer to the businesses and developers fueling the local economy, we hope to accelerate African innovation and drive sustainable growth,” he said.

The launch event at Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg featured keynote speeches from industry and government leaders, including Tara Brady, President of Google Cloud for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa; Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Sub-Saharan Africa; and South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi. The event included business and technical discussions, a partner expo, and live demonstrations of Google Cloud’s capabilities.

Premier sponsors of the event included Accenture, ADG, Deimos, Deloitte, Digicloud, and Liquid C2, alongside over 20 exhibitors. Attendees also heard customer success stories from prominent organizations such as 4G Capital, FNB, Government of Benin, Healthbridge, Jaguar Land Rover, Moniepoint, Openserve, Pepkor, Salus, Smollan, Syft, Travelstart, and Vodacom.

Read Also: Google axes pledge not to use AI for weapons

Google Cloud has been instrumental in equipping Africans with critical digital skills through training programs such as Cloud OnBoard, Cloud Hero, and Google Hustle Academy. Since 2022, the Hustle Academy has trained over 15,000 small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, with the 2025 edition set to focus on AI-powered business training.

The company is also fostering Africa’s startup ecosystem through initiatives like Google for Startups Accelerator Africa. Over 260 startups across 17 African countries have benefited from this program, collectively raising more than $600 million in follow-on funding. These startups have seen a 31% increase in employment and a 25% rise in monthly recurring revenue.

A recent Public First digital impact study highlighted the economic benefits of Google’s digital investments in Africa. In 2023 alone, Google Cloud, along with Google Search, Google Play, YouTube, and Google advertising tools, contributed $16 billion in additional economic activity across Sub-Saharan Africa. The report predicts that for every $1 invested in digital technology in the region, over $2 in economic value will be generated by 2030, with even higher returns in leading nations.

As Google Cloud continues to expand its presence on the continent, the Johannesburg cloud region is expected to serve as a cornerstone for Africa’s digital revolution, bridging the digital divide and driving long-term economic growth.

NIMC warns against unauthorised websites for NIN services

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has warned Nigerians against modifying their National Identification Number (NIN) data on unauthorised websites.

The Head, Cooperate Communications, Dr Kayode Adegoke, gave the warning in a statement on Monday.

Adegoke said that modifications to NIN data could only be done on the official NIMC self-service portal.

He therefore warned that attempting to modify NIN data on unauthorised websites could compromise personal information and put individuals at risk of identity theft.

Read Also: Why Nigerians must pay to obtain new national ID card – NIMC

According to him, by using the official NIMC self service portal, Nigerians can ensure that their data is secured and protected.

‘’By using the self service portal, one could also enjoy the convenience of updating their information from anywhere, at any time.

“NIMC, therefore, advises Nigerians to use only the official portal for all NIN modification needs and to avoid unauthorised websites to prevent any potential risks,” he said.
(NAN)

Nigerians decry low net surfing amid telecom tariff hike

Net suffers have expressed concern over sharp decline in web browsing occasioned by the telecom tariff hikes in the country. 

The users including students, traders and business operators, who spoke in Bauchi and Gombe, decried frequent call drops, poor connectivity and low data speed since the introduction of the new telecom tarrifs.

They said the trend added a burden on their strained finances and exposed them to losses. 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), recently approved a 50 per cent rise in telecom tariffs for mobile telecommunication service providers.

The increase applied to the average cost of calls and data usage. 

NCC said the measure would support operators to invest in infrastructure and innovations in line with ongoing industry reforms. 

According to the new tariff regime, 1.5GB monthly plan is up to N1,500 from N1,000; 15GB will cost N6,500 as against its old price of N4,500 while  20GB plan costs N7,500 as against N5,500.

Also, 1.5 terabyte 90-day plan shot up to N240,000 from N150,000; and 600GB 90-day plan increased from N75,000 to N120,000 

While the voice call tariff increased from N11 to N16 per minute, representing about 45 per cent rise.  

Some of the consumers decried poor quality services by the telecom providers  in spite of the tariff hike.

Akanji Adeyemi, a journalist in Bauchi, said the telecom tariff hike has made his work more challenging as it relied on data and airtime.

He said that mobile communication was now a necessity rather than a luxury, which required proactive technical and financial measures to make it affordable and accessible to the users.

“I use data to write reports, monitor events and conduct research daily. Previously, 1-GB cost N350 as against N800.

“And it barely lasts for ew hours when doing serious work. Journalists are now spending up to N10,000 monthly on data alone,” he said.

Charles Agwan, an activist, expressed concern over the short duration of airtime, as it easily ran out while making verification calls.

“As a journalist, I need to call sources to confirm facts. If I recharge N1,000, it will be exhausted within a few minutes, and I often have to call multiple sources in a day. The cost is becoming unbearable,” he said.

However, Ismail Raji, a poultry farmer, said the tariff hike did not affect him significantly.

“I make my money, so the tariff hike hasn’t changed how often I make calls. But the government should step in to help those who are struggling,” he said.

Read Also: FULL LIST: Telcos to disconnect Nine banks USSD codes January 27

Also, David Adenuga, advised consumers to accept the tariff hike in view of the high cost of operating telecom services and economic realities in the country. 

He also called for user friendly policies to enhance telecom operations in the country. 

“All networks have increased their charges, so there’s no way to escape it. I’ve had to cut down on my internet usage and call time just to manage the costs,” he said.

Similarly; Rebecca Mu’azu and Najib Sani, said the tariff hike was causing heavy drain in their pockets as they now spent more on data and airtime. 

Sani said the situation forced him to reduce his call time or data usage to enable him to stay online.

“I used to spend N8,000 on data monthly, but with the new tariff, I spend N5,000 weekly, and about N20,000 monthly,” he said.

On his part, Attah Williams said the tariff hike has affected his social life.

“With this increase, I only make calls when absolutely necessary. I now have to think carefully before making a call,” he said

Meanwhile, some residents of Dutse in Jigawa have expressed joy over the improved power supply in the past three weeks in the area.

It will be recalled that the Federal Government had approved a new electricity tariff aimed at encouraging investment and infrastructure development in the power sector. 

The development attracted public outcry over the erratic power supply occasioned by frequent grid failure and blackouts across the country. 

Ms Safiya Muazu, a business owner in Dutse, alleged that the prepaid meter has been fraught with malfunctioning, over deductions and irregularities since the introduction of the new tariff.

“There is no light in my shop, the prepaid meter yanks off without notice as the N5,000 worth of electricity credit could barely lasts 7 days.

“People need chill drinks to quench their thirst in this weather condition, but lack of light is negatively affecting the trade.

“I’m not making a good sale, the condition is so pathetic,” she said.

Also, Aisha Abdullahi, a student, said the frequent power outage was making studying difficult.

She said that power outage often disrupted lectures during the day, and the accompanying darkness prevented students from studying during the night hours.

However, Zainab Babangida and Ahmad Abdullahi lauded the improved power supply in the area.

Abdullahi said the improved power supply had encouraged growth of trading activities and enabled the Muslim to observe the Ramadan fast in a more conducive environment. 

“We are happy over the stable power supply, it is a good development and commendable.

“With uninterrupted power supply, consumers will be happy to pay their bills because they are paying for the services rendered,”  he said.
(NAN)

Google launches Hustle Academy 2025 for African SMBs

Google today announced the opening of applications for the 2025 edition of its Hustle Academy program, designed to empower small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) across Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. Building on the success of previous years, the program will continue to emphasize AI-powered business training, alongside the launch of a new season of the popular “Hustle Academy Brings You” speaker series.

Despite their critical role in driving Africa’s economic growth, SMBs across the continent often face significant hurdles. Limited access to funding, inadequate business resources, and a lack of specialized skills hinder their ability to scale and thrive. Google’s Hustle Academy directly addresses these challenges by providing practical training, expert mentorship, and a robust entrepreneurial network, enabling SMBs to overcome obstacles and unlock their full potential.

Since 2022, Google’s Hustle Academy has provided critical support to over 15,000 SMBs who have completed the bootcamp. The 2025 program will further equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to scale their businesses in today’s digital landscape.

“We are thrilled to launch the 2025 Hustle Academy, continuing our commitment to empowering African entrepreneurs,” said Kristy Grant, Head of B2B Marketing, SSA at Google. “This year, we are reinforcing our focus on AI-powered business training, enabling SMBs to leverage cutting-edge technology for growth. We are also excited to bring back ‘Hustle Academy Brings You’, featuring inspiring stories from successful African business leaders.”

Read Also: Google Maps marks 20 years, unveils top Nigerian locations

The free, virtual Hustle Academy 2025 bootcamp will provide participants with in-depth training on: AI Integration: Learning how to incorporate AI into operations, marketing, and customer engagement; Core Business Fundamentals: Covering business strategy, financial management, digital marketing, and leadership development.

To be eligible, SMBs must have been operating for at least one year in Kenya, Nigeria, or South Africa and be seeking to expand their business. Participants will benefit from expert mentorship, practical case studies, and networking opportunities.

Complementing the bootcamp, the new season of “Hustle Academy Brings You” will feature candid conversations with prominent African entrepreneurs, including: Adenike Ogunlesi, Founder and Chief Responsibility Officer, Ruff ‘n’ Tumble; Brian Jura, Founder & CEO, Home 254 Apparel; Foluso Ogunwale, Founder of i-Fitness Gym and Wellness Center; Nobukhosi Mukwevho, Founder and CEO of Khosi Nkhosi Fashion House and Yolanda Odida, Founder of  Pure Purple

These episodes, available on the Google Africa YouTube channel, will offer valuable insights into the challenges and successes of building businesses in Africa.

“By combining practical training with inspiring stories, we aim to provide SMBs with the tools and motivation they need to succeed,” added Grant.

Applications for Hustle Academy 2025 are now open at g.co/hustleacademy.

Watch the new season of “Hustle Academy Brings You” on the Google Africa YouTube channel.

NITDA, UK Explore collaboration for stronger national cybersecurity

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the United Kingdom are partnering on the UK/Nigeria Inward CyberTrade Mission to build a National Cybersecurity Architecture.

Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of NITDA, at the meeting with some UK delegates on Monday in Abuja, said that President Bola Tinubu was committed to economic reforms and transformation, which digitisation could drive.

Inuwa noted that their Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2.0, would enhance the digitisation of the country by ensuring a digitally literate populace who are abreast of cybersecurity concerns.

He said the Federal Government was working towards embedding cybersecurity in every aspect of general activities, adding that 95 per cent of cyber breaches were as a result of human errors.

“We need to educate both the users and operators on cybersecurity, which is part of what we do and we have a target of achieving 95 per cent digital literacy level now.

“We are looking at building expertise and we are working on training our people on how to safeguard our digital space,” he said.

He added that they were conducting some research on emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Blockchain, Robotics and additive manufacturing.

Inuwa explained that as emerging technologies evolved, there was need for cybersecurity to also evolve.

“We need to evolve in the way we talk about cybersecurity and the way we secure the system we are building,” he said.

He added that in the past the use of AI never posed a threat but presently it required explainability to avoid misuse of the technology.

Inuwa added that issues about cybersecurity was a global concern and addressing it would require strategic partnerships and working as a global ecosystem to gain cyber diplomacy.

He added that it was collaborating with other countries who would be working with local businesses to build security systems according to Nigeria’s cyber landscape.

Read Also: Five must have Cybersecurity tools for 2024

Mr Mark Smithson, Country Director, Department of Business and Trade (DBT), UK, said the relationship between Nigeria and the UK was valued at 7.5 billion pounds and it was committed to continue strengthening it through building safe cyber spaces.

“The UK remains firmly committed to supporting Nigeria in tackling cyber security challenges and harnessing the opportunities of the digital age as global threads evolve.

“Our partnership is more crucial than ever in ensuring a safe and resilient cyberspace for businesses, governments and citizens alike.

“The UK is proud to bring world class expertise in cyber security to Nigeria, from cutting-edge technology, to capacity building initiatives because our strong track record in cyber resilience, threat intelligence and innovation presents valuable opportunity.

“We look forward to expanding our cooperation, sharing knowledge, deepening our bilateral trade and building a secure digital future together,” Smithson said.

Dr Lawan Mohammed, Director, Cybersecurity, said the country would need expertise collaboration to build a strong cybersecurity infrastructure, especially on the effective implementation of cybersecurity frameworks.

Other areas of expertise intervention, he mentioned were in building capacity of cybersecurity experts, which, he said, were about 8,300 and were insufficient to address cyber threats across the country.

He added that the Federal Government would require expertise to develop threat intelligence, identify vulnerabilities, preserve Public Key Infrastructure and a resilient National Cybersecurity Architecture, among other areas.

Mr Ross Gill, another member of the delegation, recognised that there are growing threats across the globe, saying that partnerships and sharing best practices could help build better defenses.

(NAN)