Tech

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has criticised renowned Hausa musician Dauda Kahutu Rarara over comments made regarding his decision to highlight Nigeria’s security challenges on the international stage.

The disagreement followed Davido’s appearance at the FIFA 2026 World Cup Countdown Concert in Los Angeles, where he drew attention to the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. During the event, the singer wore a jacket bearing the inscription “BRING THEM HOME” alongside the names of the victims.

Rarara, a prominent supporter of President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC), faulted the move and accused Davido of portraying Nigeria negatively before a global audience.

Reacting through his official X account on Wednesday, Davido defended his actions and argued that citizens should not remain silent about insecurity and other national challenges.

According to him, “First of all, anyone who truly loves Nigeria will not remain silent about the insecurity problems troubling the country, nor will they try to stop others from expressing their concerns about it.

“A lack of compassion, putting personal interests first, acting as a political stooge, and prioritising selfish motives over the welfare of the people are not things to be proud of.

“Be patriotic and loyal to your country. Stop placing politics above the truth, and fear God in everything you do. @kahuturarara.”

Davido maintained that speaking about insecurity should not be interpreted as an attack on Nigeria. He said drawing attention to the suffering of citizens is part of the responsibility of patriotic Nigerians who want solutions to the country’s problems.

Before Davido’s response, Rarara had criticised the singer for discussing Nigeria’s security situation before an international audience. The musician described the move as harmful to the country’s image abroad.

In a video circulated online, Rarara said, “People of the world, friends near and far, especially Nigerians, I greet you all. I wish you all the best. Ladies and gentlemen, please be patient with me today. I have come with something I have never said or done before. I am not someone who usually makes statements like this.”

He explained that he decided to speak out because of Davido’s handling of the issue surrounding the abduction of schoolchildren in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The exchange has generated widespread reactions on social media, where many users continue to debate whether public figures should openly discuss Nigeria’s challenges before international audiences or focus on promoting a positive image of the country.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commenced a fresh review of interconnection rates for telecommunications operators across the country, a move that could lead to higher costs for voice calls and SMS services if approved.

Interconnection rates, also known as Mobile Termination Rates (MTR), are charges paid by one telecom operator to another when a customer places a call to a subscriber on a different network. The current rates stand at between ₦3.90 and ₦4.70 per minute.

Industry stakeholders discussed the planned review during a consultative meeting on mobile termination rates held in Lagos on Tuesday.

Speaking at the event, KPMG partner, Wole Adenekan, said interconnection rates should reflect the actual cost of providing services. According to him, rates that are set too low may discourage investment in telecommunications infrastructure.

“A mis-set MTR can enable dominant operators to foreclose smaller competitors through high termination barriers. A cost-reflective rate supports a level competitive playing field,” he said.

Adenekan also noted that consumers could eventually bear the burden of excessive termination charges through higher retail service costs.

He explained that economic realities have changed significantly since the last review in 2018. He cited the depreciation of the naira, rising inflation, higher energy expenses and increasing equipment costs as factors that have altered operators’ cost structures.

The KPMG official further stated that the expansion of 5G technology and the growing adoption of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) services have transformed network usage patterns and service delivery models. He added that messaging and voice services provided by Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms have reduced dependence on traditional telecom interconnection services.

According to him, the local interconnection rates established in 2018 have not been revised, while the 2022 review focused only on international termination rates.

In her remarks, the Head of Competition and Tariff Unit at the NCC’s Policy Department, Omotayo Mohammed, described the review as an important economic measure aimed at ensuring the commission’s regulatory framework keeps pace with developments in the telecommunications sector.

She said: “Our existing national interconnection rate regime was set out in the Commission’s Interconnection Rate Determination of June 1, 2018, and was subsequently adjusted through an amendment to the Mobile International Termination Rate (ITR) in September 2022.

“The Commission has historically maintained a regular cycle of periodic reviews to keep its frameworks relevant.

“However, the years since our 2018 determination have been marked by unprecedented and rapid change. The Nigerian telecommunications market has undergone considerable transformation, reflected in swift expansion, shifting market dynamics, the commercial deployment of advanced technologies such as 5G, and the emergence of new ecosystem players including Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs).

“At the same time, both global and domestic macroeconomic conditions have shifted considerably. Changes in exchange rate regimes, and inflation rates have substantially altered the cost structures associated with providing communications services in Nigeria.

“For regulation to remain effective in a fast-moving market, our frameworks must evolve in step with it. Pursuant to Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, the Commission is therefore acting on its mandate to ensure that telecommunications tariffs and charges remain reasonable, cost-reflective, and non-discriminatory”.

Mohammed added that the exercise will also assess existing retail pricing controls and asymmetry arrangements to ensure that consumer interests remain protected while maintaining fair competition within the sector.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Katsina State Government has announced the rescue of four kidnap victims by Nigerian Army troops during ongoing operations against wanted bandit leader Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani and his criminal network.

The rescued individuals identified as Musa Yakuba, 62; Alhaji Sa’adu Dayi, 68; Mukhtar Danja, 36; and Salisu Danja, 50—were freed during sustained military operations in areas where the gang is believed to be operating.

According to a statement released Wednesday by the state’s Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, all four victims sustained gunshot wounds during their captivity and received immediate medical attention upon rescue.

The operation comes weeks after troops successfully rescued the wife of late Major General Rabe Abubakar. Officials noted that the newly rescued victims had previously appeared in a photograph with the late general.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda praised the professionalism and bravery of the security forces, stating that their relentless efforts continue to yield results in the fight against banditry and kidnapping across the state.

Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, assured citizens that security forces remain on the trail of Fulani and other criminal elements, vowing that operations will persist until all perpetrators of terror against innocent citizens face justice.

“We remain fully committed to protecting lives and property,” Mu’azu said, adding that the government will continue collaborating closely with security agencies to deny criminals any safe haven in the state.

By Anas Abbas

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approached the Court of Appeal in Abuja, seeking an order to suspend the implementation of a Federal High Court judgment that directed the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties.

At a hearing before a three-member panel of the appellate court on Tuesday, INEC expressed support for applications filed by the affected parties challenging the lower court’s decision.

The electoral body argued that it was unaware the judgment would be delivered, insisting that an earlier order of the Court of Appeal had halted the planned delivery of the ruling.

Counsel representing INEC told the court that the commission only became aware of the judgment through media reports, maintaining that no formal notice was issued regarding its delivery.

The commission therefore backed requests for a stay of execution pending the determination of the appeal.

Lawyers representing the ADC also faulted the ruling, describing it as a threat to judicial order and urging the appellate court to intervene. The party’s legal team argued that the lower court proceeded despite being aware of an order suspending the judgment, and called on the Court of Appeal to take urgent steps to preserve the integrity of the judicial process.

Other affected parties warned that enforcing the judgment could create uncertainty ahead of upcoming by-elections scheduled in several states. They urged the appellate court to prevent possible disruptions by suspending the implementation of the ruling while the appeal is being considered.

The Court of Appeal was still receiving submissions from parties involved in the matter at the time of filing this report. The case follows a Federal High Court judgment ordering INEC to deregister the ADC and four other political parties over alleged failure to meet constitutional electoral performance requirements.

By Anas Abbas

A court in Katsina State has sentenced a woman to death after finding her guilty of aiding bandits operating in parts of the state.

The convict was prosecuted for providing assistance to armed criminal groups, an offence the court ruled contributed to insecurity and violence affecting communities across the region. After reviewing the evidence presented during the trial, the court held that the prosecution had established its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Delivering judgment, the presiding judge stated that anyone who supports criminal groups, either directly or indirectly, bears responsibility for the consequences of their actions. The court consequently imposed the death penalty on the defendant in accordance with the relevant provisions of the law.

The case is one of several ongoing efforts by authorities to tackle banditry and related crimes in Katsina and other northwestern states. Security agencies have intensified operations against armed groups blamed for killings, kidnappings, and attacks on rural communities.

Officials say the judgment sends a strong message that individuals who provide logistical, financial, or other forms of support to criminal networks will face severe legal consequences.

The conviction comes amid renewed calls for stronger collaboration between security agencies, local communities, and the judiciary to address the persistent security challenges facing the region.

By Ishaka Mohammed

The Arewa Business Support Fund (Arewa BSF) has announced its website accessibility ahead of the official launch of the investment initiative set for June 1, 2026.

The announcement was made through the official X handle of the Fund @ArewaBSF. Part of it reads, “We are excited to officially announce that the portal for Arewa Business Support Fund is now LIVE!”

Arewa BSF is a private-sector initiative aimed at supporting youth-led businesses in northern Nigeria, regardless of the ownersʼ origins.

THE DAILY REALITY earlier reported how Aliko Dangoteʼs son-in-law, Captain Jamil Abubakar, raised 100 million naira to support entrepreneurs in northern Nigeria.

This Paper also gathered that beneficiaries would enjoy free mentorship and consultancy in addition to interest-free business loans, which, when repaid, would be used to support more businesses. By implication, every financial contribution is a donation. At the time of filing this report, there are 12 financial contributors.

The website https://arewabusinessfund.com/ has more information for interested entrepreneurs and contributors.

By Ismail Bello Darazo 

The technological landscape is rapidly evolving, changing how we live and work. The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) presents numerous opportunities, particularly when it is fully explored and effectively utilised. 

AI can simplify complex concepts and deliver more concise, efficient solutions. Its growing application across various aspects of life continues to enhance convenience and productivity in everyday activities.

However, the core objective of AI development is to support and simplify human efforts, not to replace human intelligence. In practice, the way AI is used is gradually shifting from collaboration to dependence.

AI is now deeply embedded in our daily routines, often substituting rather than complementing our cognitive abilities. It is increasingly common to observe individuals who struggle to articulate even simple communications, such as WhatsApp group messages, without relying on AI tools. Likewise, some managers no longer trust their own analytical capabilities for basic business decision-making, preferring instead to depend on AI-generated outputs.

One of the most significant consequences of this overreliance is the gradual erosion of human cognitive capacity. When individuals consistently delegate thinking and decision-making to AI systems, they risk weakening their natural abilities to reason, analyse, and make sound judgments. Over time, this dependency can reduce confidence in independent thinking and limit the development of critical problem-solving skills.

Hybrid intelligence systems, which integrate human expertise with artificial intelligence, are increasingly recognized as essential for addressing complex and multifaceted challenges. By combining human intuition, ethical reasoning, and contextual awareness with the computational strength of AI, more balanced and effective outcomes can be achieved.

However, placing AI at the forefront without adequate human oversight may lead to inhuman or ethically flawed decisions, as AI systems remain limited in their ability to fully replicate human judgment, values, and nuanced understanding.

In conclusion, AI, as a defining technology of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is here to stay. The responsibility lies with us to utilise and fully explore its potential without undermining our natural cognitive abilities. 

Rather than allowing AI to dominate human processes, it should be positioned as a centre of collaboration where human intelligence and machine capabilities complement each other to produce more balanced and effective outcomes. In this context, AI is not a replacement for human thinking, but a strategic partner that enhances our capacity to reason, make informed decisions, and drive innovation.

Ismail Bello Darazo wrote from Bauchi State via Ismailbello054@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

An initiative aimed at improving governance participation and digital access for women and girls took centre stage in Bauchi as the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) organised an event to commemorate the International Girls in ICT Day.

The programme formed part of the Agenda Winning Project, a CITAD initiative designed to strengthen governance engagement and expand opportunities for women and girls, with a strong focus on digital inclusion.

The event brought together students from eight schools. Teachers, panelists, and stakeholders from government, academia, civil society, and the ICT sector also attended.

Organisers said the programme focused on building digital literacy, promoting online safety, and creating awareness about opportunities in the digital economy for girls. It also sought to reduce the gender gap in access to digital tools through mentorship and stakeholder collaboration.

The session opened with remarks by the Programme Officer of CITAD Bauchi Office, Mujahid Ibrahim, who spoke on behalf of the Executive Director. He outlined the objectives of the project and its key thematic areas.

Speaking at the event, Mujahid Ibrahim said, “This initiative is about equipping young girls with the knowledge and confidence to participate safely and meaningfully in the digital space. We want them to see technology not just as users, but as creators and leaders in the digital economy.”

A technical session followed. It addressed digital literacy and online safety. Speakers highlighted the need for responsible use of digital platforms, improved cybersecurity awareness, and the importance of equipping young girls with safe digital skills.

The event also featured a panel discussion with key experts. They included Dr. Khadija, Director of Research and Innovation at the Bauchi State Bureau for ICT; Muhammad Qaim Aliyu, a lecturer in cybersecurity at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU); and Hauwa Jidda, a representative of Z-Tech.

The discussion, moderated by Dr. Muhammad Qaim Aliyu, examined mentorship, opportunities in the digital space, and career pathways for girls in ICT. Dr. Khadija Aliyu Yahya expressed readiness to support interested participants through mentorship and inclusion in her ICT programmes.

Participants described the event as engaging and impactful. There was strong participation from stakeholders and enthusiasm among the students.

By Aminu Babayo Shehu

Nigeria is entering a period where technology is no longer optional for national development. Around the world, countries that once depended on natural resources are rapidly transforming their economies through innovation, high-tech manufacturing and knowledge-driven industries. Nigeria’s long-term plan, Nigeria Agenda 2050, recognises this reality. One of its key policy directions is to accelerate technology development across all sectors to increase the production of high-technology products. This policy is not simply aspirational. It is urgent, practical and necessary for economic survival.

For decades, crude oil has dominated Nigeria’s revenue base. Yet oil is a finite resource, prone to global price shocks and increasingly less attractive as the world shifts to renewable energy. Technology products, on the other hand, are expanding at a scale that dwarfs resource-based industries. The global tech market is projected to exceed $10 trillion over the next decade. Nations that embrace high-tech production are generating new wealth, attracting investment, and creating jobs at a pace unimaginable under traditional economies.

Countries such as South Korea, Singapore, India, and China were once struggling nations with limited natural resources. South Korea transformed from poverty to a top global economy by investing in electronics, telecommunications, robotics and semiconductors. Today, companies like Samsung contribute more to South Korea’s GDP than the entire oil sector contributes to Nigeria.

China shifted from low-wage manufacturing to high-tech dominance in areas such as electric vehicles, drones, AI, and telecommunications. Its tech exports now reshape global markets. India invested heavily in its tech talent, building the world’s largest IT outsourcing industry and becoming a leading hub for software engineering, fintech, and space technology. These countries show that consistent investment in research, innovation, and human capital produces national transformation.

Nigeria has the potential to make similar progress, but time is not on our side. The world will not wait for us. If we continue to rely on crude oil as our primary revenue source, we will fall even further behind. Our young population, one of the largest in Africa, is an asset only if it is empowered with digital skills, research opportunities, and innovative platforms. Otherwise, it becomes a liability.

High-technology production can reshape Nigeria’s economy in several ways. First, it will diversify national revenue and reduce the need for excessive borrowing. Countries with strong technology sectors generate significant income from intellectual property, digital services, hardware production, and global tech partnerships. Nigeria can do the same by promoting local manufacturing of electronics, renewable energy components, agri-tech equipment, medical devices, cybersecurity solutions, and AI-powered tools.

Second, investment in technology drives innovation across all sectors. Agriculture can be transformed through agri-drones, smart irrigation and data-driven farm management. Healthcare can be strengthened through telemedicine, diagnostic tools and biotechnology research. Security agencies can rely on surveillance drones, satellite imaging and digital intelligence rather than outdated methods. Education can be improved through digital learning platforms, simulation labs and computing infrastructure. These are the kinds of advancements that lift entire nations.

Third, high-tech development creates high-quality jobs. Instead of exporting raw materials, Nigeria can export advanced products and services. Instead of depending on foreign technology, we can build our own solutions. Instead of losing talented youth to migration, we can build an economy that retains and rewards them.

However, none of this will happen by accident. Nigeria must deliberately invest in research and development, strengthen universities and technical institutions, build innovation hubs, support local manufacturing, and fund STEM programs from primary school through postgraduate level. Policies must be consistent, leadership must be committed, and institutions must have the resources needed to produce world-class results.

If Nigeria takes the Nigeria Agenda 2050 technology policy seriously, we can transition from a raw-material exporter to a high-tech producer within a generation. But if we continue to postpone action, the cost will be grave. Nations that invest early in technology win the future. Nations that delay are left behind.

Nigeria has the talent, the population and the potential. What we need now is the political will and the investment to match our ambition. High-technology production is not just an economic option. It is the pathway to sovereignty, prosperity and long-term stability.

Aminu Babayo Shehu is a Software Engineer, Mobile Developer, and Technology Advocate. He can be reached at absheikhone@gmail.com.

By Aminu Babayo Shehu

Nigeria is facing one of its toughest internal security battles in decades. From the kidnapping of schoolchildren in Kebbi and Niger states to the killing of senior military officers, including a Brigadier General, criminal groups continue to operate with increasing boldness. Bandits, kidnappers and terror cells now openly upload videos on platforms like TikTok and WhatsApp, displaying weapons, hostages and propaganda with little fear of consequences.

This is no longer an era where outdated tactics can secure the nation. Criminal groups are becoming more technologically aware, while the state still relies heavily on manual intelligence and slow-response systems. Countries facing similar threats have adopted advanced tools and strategies. Nigeria must follow the same path.

The United States and Israel use drones, satellite intelligence and geolocation trackers to disrupt hostile organisations long before they strike. Rwanda has established a modern drone command system to enhance surveillance and national security. India employs mobile tracing, SIM mapping and digital pattern analysis to dismantle kidnapping networks. These examples show that even in challenging environments, technology can expose criminal movements, reduce their operational freedom and strengthen national response.

Nigeria can apply the same approach effectively.

Real-time aerial surveillance remains one of the most critical gaps in Nigeria’s security architecture. High-altitude drones equipped with night-vision cameras and thermal sensors can monitor large forest areas where bandits hide. Such drones transmit live data to command centres, enabling tracking of movements and coordination of precision strikes. In many cases, soldiers need not be deployed on foot into ambush-prone areas; operations can be guided or executed remotely.

Mobile intelligence is another powerful asset. Every phone, even when switched off, leaves digital traces. With firm collaboration between telecom operators and security agencies, criminals can be located through cell-site analysis, call patterns and movement anomalies. India has successfully used these tools to reduce large-scale kidnapping syndicates.

Satellite imaging, when paired with artificial intelligence, can detect camps, vehicles, and human movement in remote areas. Modern software can analyse thousands of images within minutes and flag suspicious activity such as heat signatures, makeshift shelters, or recently cleared land. This drastically improves early detection and reduces operational delays.

State governments can also invest in early-warning technologies. Community CCTV networks, automated alarm systems and remote-sensor alerts can shorten response times. Local initiatives that once existed in a few states need consistent funding and national integration.

At the federal level, the Presidency should coordinate a national security technology blueprint. This would bring together drones, cyber-intelligence tools, biometric systems, satellite monitoring, and geospatial-analysis platforms into a single central command. Strategic partnerships with technologically advanced nations can reduce costs and strengthen capacity.

Nigeria’s security forces have courage and dedication, but courage alone cannot defeat modern criminals who rely on speed, shock and terrain mastery. Technology is the equaliser. It exposes hideouts, cuts communication lines and allows the state to strike before criminals mobilise.

The tools exist. They are affordable. They have worked in other nations. What Nigeria needs now is clear political will, long-term investment and an understanding that 21st-century threats demand 21st-century solutions.

If embraced, technology can save lives, disrupt kidnappers and terrorists, and restore the confidence of millions of Nigerians who deserve safety.

Aminu Babayo Shehu is a Software Engineer and Mobile Developer with experience building technology-driven solutions, including systems for logistics, telecommunications, e-commerce, and security-focused applications. He writes on technology, national development and digital transformation.