New Post Africa

Category: Technology

  • OAU wins 2026 University Duel Competition, receives N3m prize as participants earn scholarships

    OAU wins 2026 University Duel Competition, receives N3m prize as participants earn scholarships

    LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has emerged winner of the 2026 University Duel Competition, defeating contestants from 61 other universities in a nationwide contest designed to promote excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

    The competition, which lasted 11 weeks, featured 186 students drawn from 62 universities across Nigeria and tested participants in Applied Mathematics, Data Analysis, Verbal Reasoning, and General Knowledge.

    The University Duel is regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading academic competitions aimed at identifying and nurturing the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and technology leaders.

    Speaking during the award presentation ceremony at the OAU campus, founder of the STEM Africa Initiative, Mr. Oladapo Ojo, called on African countries, particularly Nigeria, to transition from being consumers of technology to becoming creators and developers of homegrown solutions.

    According to him, sustainable development on the continent will depend largely on the ability of young people to harness science, innovation, and technology to solve local challenges.

    “If Africa and Nigeria are to move forward, we must go beyond consuming technology to developing our own,” Ojo said.

    He noted that the competition was established to inspire students to appreciate the practical value of STEM education and its role in driving economic transformation.

    Ojo also commended telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria for supporting the initiative, describing the company as a key partner in efforts to promote STEM learning and innovation among Nigerian youths.

    “MTN Nigeria identified with this initiative and supported it as a proud sponsor. The goal is to drive change across Africa by enabling young people to see the benefits of STEM and its transformative potential in their lives,” he added.

    Also speaking at the event, OAU’s Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. John Odedire, described the victory as a significant milestone for the institution.

    He recalled that OAU finished third in the inaugural edition of the competition in 2025 but returned this year to claim the overall title.

    According to him, the university achieved a rare feat by winning both the University Duel Competition and the Smart Challenge competition in the same year.

    “What we are celebrating today is a double victory. This is the first time an institution has won both the University Duel and the Smart Challenge competitions in one sweep,” Odedire said.

    Participants who benefited from the competition also praised the initiative for providing a platform that rewards academic excellence and encourages innovation.

    One of the award recipients, Quayum Alli, said the programme demonstrated the importance of private sector investment in education and skills development.

    He noted that beyond financial rewards, the competition offered students an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to practical challenges and prepare for future careers in science and technology.

    “It is encouraging to see a company like MTN genuinely invest in students, not only by providing digital skills for the future but also by helping bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application,” he said.

    Another recipient, Adesina Lekan, called for increased awareness and publicity for future editions of the competition to encourage broader participation from students across the country.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that MTN Nigeria awarded N3 million to the winners of the University Duel Competition and N1 million to the champions of the Smart Challenge competition.

    In addition to the cash prizes, winners also received scholarship opportunities and other academic support packages aimed at advancing their educational and professional development.

    Organisers expressed optimism that the competition would continue to inspire excellence in STEM education and contribute to building a highly skilled workforce capable of driving Nigeria’s digital and technological future.

  • JUST IN: Starmer warns tech firms over children’s online safety, threatens regulatory action

    JUST IN: Starmer warns tech firms over children’s online safety, threatens regulatory action

    LONDON, United Kingdom (NPA) — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has issued a strong warning to technology companies, saying his government will not stand by while children are exposed to harmful content and risks online.

    In a statement released on Monday, Starmer called on technology firms to introduce stronger device-level safeguards to prevent children from creating, sharing or viewing nude images.

    “Today I am calling on the tech companies to introduce device-level controls to prevent children from taking, sharing or viewing nude images,” the prime minister said.

    “And if they don’t act, we will.”

    Starmer has placed children’s online safety at the centre of his government’s digital policy agenda, arguing that rapid technological advancements must not come at the expense of young people’s wellbeing.

    The British leader has pledged to strengthen protections for minors online through tougher regulations on social media platforms, artificial intelligence tools and other digital services.

    Among the measures under consideration are restrictions on harmful social media platforms for users under the age of 16, tighter oversight of AI chatbots and stronger compliance obligations for technology companies.

    According to Starmer, concerns over mental health challenges, online exploitation, sextortion and addictive platform features such as infinite scrolling have reinforced the need for urgent action.

    He stressed that no technology company should be exempt from accountability.

    “No platform gets a free pass,” Starmer has repeatedly stated, insisting that existing laws must evolve to keep pace with emerging technologies and online threats.

    The prime minister’s proposals also include consultations on age limits for social media access, digital curfews for young users and clearer guidance to help parents manage online risks.

    His government is also seeking to strengthen the implementation of the Online Safety Act by closing regulatory loopholes and enforcing stricter compliance standards across the technology sector.

    As a father of two teenagers, Starmer said the issue is both a personal concern and a national priority.

    According to him, the United Kingdom must take a leading role in developing effective measures to protect children in the digital age.

    The government’s position reflects a growing international trend toward tighter regulation of online platforms, with countries including Australia, France and Denmark also pursuing stronger protections for children and young internet users.

  • Mutfwang reaffirms commitment to youth innovation at Plateau Technology Festival

    Mutfwang reaffirms commitment to youth innovation at Plateau Technology Festival

    JOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in young people through science, technology and innovation.

    Mutfwang made the pledge while declaring open the Plateau State Science, Technology and Innovation Festival (PLASSTIFEST), describing innovation as a key driver of job creation, economic growth and sustainable development.

    The governor said the state government had concluded arrangements to connect skilled youths in Plateau to global outsourcing opportunities, adding that hundreds of young people were already undergoing screening for the programme.

    According to him, the initiative forms part of the state’s Year of Technology Advancement agenda aimed at creating pathways for innovation and employment.

    Mutfwang also highlighted the achievements of a young innovator from Bokkos Local Government Area who designed and built a prototype vehicle.

    He disclosed that the government had engaged the innovator to produce 200 hand tillers to support agricultural mechanisation and boost productivity across the state.

    “The future belongs to innovators, and Plateau State will continue to support young people with the ideas, talent and determination to transform our society,” the governor said.

    He reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for innovation-driven development and empowering youths to compete in the global economy.

    Development experts concur with Governor Mutfwang that technology remains one of the most powerful drivers of economic empowerment. They note its capacity to generate jobs, broaden access to global opportunities, and lift people out of poverty—particularly in underserved and rural communities. By investing in innovation and digital skills, the state government is equipping more young people to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to Enugu’s economic growth.

  • NIMR unveils N300M solar power system to tackle electricity challenges

    NIMR unveils N300M solar power system to tackle electricity challenges

    LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) has unveiled a N300 million solar power system aimed at addressing persistent electricity challenges and strengthening critical research and diagnostic services at the institute.

    The 100 KVA solar facility, donated by the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS), is expected to provide an uninterrupted power supply to key laboratories and research units.

    Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Lagos, the Director-General of NIMR, Prof. John Obafunwa, said the project would improve operational efficiency, reduce dependence on fossil fuel-powered electricity and support environmental sustainability.

    Represented by the Director of Administration, Mr Bitrus Nelson, Obafunwa described the intervention as timely and strategic.

    “Today’s event represents much more than the commissioning of a 100 KVA facility.

    “It signifies a shared commitment to sustainable development, resilient research systems and stronger partnerships in advancing public health outcomes,” he said.

    According to the NIMR chief, reliable electricity remains essential to the institute’s mandate of generating scientific evidence to support national health policies and interventions.

    He said the solar system would provide power to critical facilities, including the COBAS laboratory for HIV viral load testing, molecular laboratories conducting PCR-based analysis, the Biobank facility housing ultra-low temperature freezers, seminar and training centres, and other support units.

    Obafunwa noted that uninterrupted electricity was crucial for laboratory research, cold chain management, emergency preparedness and data management systems.

    He added that the new installation would help preserve valuable research specimens and ensure continuity of critical health services.

    The Managing Director of ECEWS, Dr Andy Eyo, described NIMR as a key institution in Nigeria’s public health and health security architecture.

    He said the project formed part of ECEWS’ broader efforts to strengthen healthcare and research infrastructure across the country.

    “NIMR has played a significant role in Nigeria’s public health history and in responding to emerging health threats,” Eyo said.

    He disclosed that the N300 million facility consists of 312 solar panels rated at 705 watts each, two 209 KVA lithium battery units and two 50 KVA inverters for power conversion.

    According to him, the system was designed based on lessons from previous renewable energy projects in the health sector and was extensively tested in collaboration with NIMR engineers before deployment.

    “This is the most sophisticated solar facility we have deployed in the health sector.

    “It is designed not only to provide stable power but also to reduce energy costs, allowing more resources to be channelled into research and healthcare delivery,” he said.

    Representing the Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, Obafunwa commended ECEWS for its continued support to Nigeria’s health and research sector.

    He said investments in renewable energy solutions were essential for improving efficiency, reducing operational costs and ensuring uninterrupted service delivery in health institutions.

    “The deployment of renewable energy solutions such as this solar system aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening health systems while promoting sustainable development,” he said.

    Obafunwa recalled that NIMR’s monthly electricity bill exceeded N48 million when he assumed office in August 2024 and later rose to between N49 million and N52 million despite limited government funding.

    He said management had since introduced energy-saving measures, including the installation of prepaid meters and stricter energy management practices.

    The NIMR Director-General expressed appreciation to ECEWS and its partners for the intervention, noting that the project would strengthen the institute’s research capacity, improve diagnostic services and contribute to Nigeria’s renewable energy goals.

    (NAN)

  • Mahama commissions ICT centre, Ghana deploys 100 new buses

    Mahama commissions ICT centre, Ghana deploys 100 new buses

    ACCRA, Ghana (NPA) — President John Dramani Mahama has commissioned the Mahama ICT Centre in Damongo, describing the facility as a major boost to the government’s BSTEM programme aimed at strengthening science and technology education in the country.

    Speaking during the inauguration, Mahama said the centre would support practical learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, particularly in information and communications technology, following the rollout of the BSTEM initiative in the region.

    The president expressed satisfaction that the ICT facility is powered entirely by solar energy, describing it as a “green lab” aligned with global sustainable development goals.

    According to him, the centre would help equip young people with digital and technical skills needed to compete in a rapidly evolving global economy.

    Meanwhile, Newpost Africa earlier reported that Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has commissioned 100 new buses on behalf of President Mahama as part of efforts to revitalise Ghana’s public transportation system.

    The ceremony, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Metro Mass Transit Limited, forms part of a broader government initiative to deploy 300 buses nationwide to improve transportation accessibility and ease commuter challenges across the country.

    Opoku-Agyemang commended the management of Metro Mass Transit Limited, led by Managing Director Kale Caesar, alongside partners including MAC Ghana, for their roles in delivering the intervention.

    She stressed that an efficient and reliable transportation system remains critical to national development, noting that the initiative was designed to improve safety, affordability, and convenience for commuters while restoring confidence in public transport.

    The vice president also highlighted the importance of proper maintenance and disciplined operations to ensure value for public investment.

    According to her, the government remains committed to increasing local participation in the manufacturing and assembly of transportation components as part of its long-term industrialisation strategy.

  • Osun residents to enjoy free unlimited internet access on Saturdays

    Osun residents to enjoy free unlimited internet access on Saturdays

    OSHOGBO, Nigeria (NPA) — Residents of Osun State are set to enjoy another weekend of free unlimited internet access as the Osun State Library Board announced complimentary Wi-Fi services at the Osun State Library in Osogbo.

    In a public service announcement issued on Friday, the Board encouraged residents to take advantage of the initiative to study, conduct research, work remotely, learn digital skills, and stay connected in a conducive learning environment.

    The initiative is being provided by the Osun State Government under the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke as part of efforts to promote digital access and educational development in the state.

    “Enjoy FREE unlimited Wi-Fi every Saturday at the Osun State Library, Osogbo. Study, research, work remotely, learn digital skills, and stay connected in a conducive environment, courtesy of the Osun State Government,” the public service announcement read in part.

    The programme is expected to benefit students, researchers, entrepreneurs, remote workers, and other residents seeking affordable internet access and digital learning opportunities.

  • Africa losing billions annually over poor logistics, connectivity — CILT

    Africa losing billions annually over poor logistics, connectivity — CILT

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Nigeria has warned that Africa is losing billions of dollars annually due to poor connectivity, weak transport infrastructure and inefficient logistics systems across the continent.

    The National President of the institute, Dr Boboye Oyeyemi, disclosed this on Thursday during the 2026 CILT Annual Lecture Series held in Abuja.

    Oyeyemi said inadequate road networks, underdeveloped rail systems, congested ports and limited innovation infrastructure continue to slow trade, discourage investment and hinder economic growth across Africa.

    According to him, despite Africa’s enormous natural resources, growing population, agricultural strength and entrepreneurial potential, poor connectivity remains a major obstacle to development.

    “The roads that should connect farmers to markets are inadequate. The railways that should move cargo across national borders are underbuilt or completely non-existent.

    “The ports that should serve as gateways to the continent are too expensive and congested, while innovation networks that should connect African cities remain too limited and costly,” he said.

    He further lamented that the continent’s logistics systems remain fragmented, underdeveloped and inefficient, making the movement of goods and people difficult and expensive.

    Oyeyemi warned that the connectivity deficit is costing Africa billions of dollars yearly in lost trade, investment opportunities, productivity and human potential.

    He called for stronger collaboration among African governments, institutions and stakeholders to improve transport infrastructure and unlock greater continental trade opportunities.

    Delivering a lecture at the event, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said no continent could achieve true economic integration while remaining physically disconnected.

    Represented by the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, the minister described aviation as a critical economic infrastructure for Africa due to the continent’s vast geographical size and transport limitations.

    According to Keyamo, aviation remains essential because roads and rail systems alone cannot effectively connect many parts of Africa.

    He stressed the need for African countries to prioritise integrated transport infrastructure, policy harmonisation and strategic partnerships to address barriers limiting connectivity.

    “When connectivity improves, investment flows. When investment grows, jobs are created, poverty declines and prosperity expands,” he said.

    The minister urged African nations to transform the Single African Air Transport Market into a practical reality through more flight routes, affordable tickets, modern fleets, efficient airports and stronger regional cooperation.

    “Let us make the African sky a true space of opportunity — open, safe, connected, sustainable and prosperous for all,” he added.

    Keyamo also emphasised that Africa must collectively harmonise legal standards and improve judicial efficiency to build a competitive continental aviation market capable of attracting global investment.

    Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Transportation, Daura, Prof Umar Katsayal, said research, innovation and manpower development remain critical to advancing Africa’s transport sector.

    He urged governments and institutions to invest in technology-driven transport solutions and human capacity development to achieve sustainable growth.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that highlights of the annual lecture included awards presented to distinguished guests for their contributions to the institute and the transportation sector.

  • Abia launches biogas pilot project to boost renewable energy innovation

    Abia launches biogas pilot project to boost renewable energy innovation

    UMUAHIA, Nigeria (Agency Report) — Abia State Government has launched a pilot biogas project at a secondary school in Owerrinta, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, as part of efforts to promote renewable energy, research and technological innovation across the state.

    The Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, David Kalu, disclosed this during a news conference in Umuahia following the State Executive Council meeting.

    Kalu described the initiative as a locally-driven renewable energy project aimed at testing the viability, affordability and adaptability of biogas technology in schools and public institutions.

    According to him, the project, which was recently deployed at the school, is expected to begin gas production within four weeks.

    “The idea is to determine whether it is easy to implement, cost-effective and acceptable to the school community. If successful, it can be replicated in other schools and institutions across the state,” he said.

    He added that the government would assess feedback from the pilot programme before considering a broader rollout across Abia State.

    The commissioner also spoke on the Federal Government’s “Energised Commercialisation Now” initiative, which seeks to promote research, innovation and commercialisation of viable projects nationwide.

    According to Kalu, Abia State has been directed to establish a committee comprising representatives from government, academia and industry to coordinate the initiative within the state.

    He disclosed that the committee would include members from Abia State University, Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic and Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, alongside private sector stakeholders.

    The committee, he said, would identify commercially viable research projects and innovations for presentation at the federal level.

    Kalu further revealed that the state government plans to use the committee to develop a comprehensive research and innovation policy focused on solving local challenges, utilising local resources and supporting commercially sustainable innovations.

    Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, said the biogas project was designed to demonstrate how renewable energy can be generated from organic waste within schools and institutions.

    According to him, the initiative would also generate research data capable of supporting large-scale deployment of biogas technology across the state.

    Kanu noted that the project aligns with the state’s science, technology and innovation framework aimed at strengthening research and development.

    He also confirmed that the state had approved the establishment of a committee to drive the Federal Government-backed “Energised Commercialisation Now” programme.

    According to him, the committee would comprise innovators, startups and researchers, while also facilitating the development and presentation of market-ready innovations and research outputs.

    Kanu added that the initiative would strengthen collaboration between academia, industry and government stakeholders, with special emphasis on youth and women participation.

  • Northrop Grumman unveils major upgrades to E-2D advanced Hawkeye Surveillance Aircraft

    Northrop Grumman unveils major upgrades to E-2D advanced Hawkeye Surveillance Aircraft

    WASHINGTON, United States (NPA) — Northrop Grumman has announced major modernisation upgrades to the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, as the United States military moves to strengthen airborne surveillance, command and control capabilities against evolving global threats.

    The company said the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, the latest aircraft in the E-2 series with a history spanning more than 65 years, is being upgraded with advanced digital systems, automation technologies and expanded operational capabilities designed to keep the platform combat-ready into the 2040s and beyond.

    According to Northrop Grumman, the E-2D has become one of the most heavily tasked aircraft in the U.S. military inventory, with every United States Navy carrier strike group deploying alongside a Hawkeye squadron.

    The company explained that the aircraft now supports a wide range of missions beyond airborne early warning operations, including integrated air and missile defence, electronic warfare, air traffic control, humanitarian assistance, combat search and rescue, border security and counter-drug missions.

    Officials disclosed that the aircraft provides a 360-degree surveillance capability capable of tracking thousands of targets simultaneously across land and sea environments.

    Northrop Grumman also highlighted improvements in automation, noting that tasks such as radar fine-tuning, target tracking and reporting are now largely automated, allowing crews to focus on mission-critical operations.

    The aircraft has additionally been upgraded with aerial refuelling capability, extending flight endurance to more than eight hours and improving operational flexibility.

    Vice President of Northrop Grumman, Janice Zilch, said the modernisation programme was developed in partnership with the U.S. Navy to ensure the platform remains ahead of future threats.

    “Northrop Grumman collaborated with the U.S. Navy on the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye programme to ensure, with this fleet modernisation, that we continue to outpace evolving threats into the 2040s and beyond,” she said.

    The company revealed that the next Block II upgrade will focus on improving software resiliency, operational availability, cybersecurity and interoperability.

    New mission computers and cockpit displays are also expected to support rapid integration of emerging technologies through an open mission systems architecture.

    Northrop Grumman further disclosed that artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies are being integrated into the aircraft’s maintenance and sustainment systems to improve readiness and reduce downtime.

    The company said augmented reality and virtual reality tools are also being introduced to accelerate maintenance procedures and enhance training for sustainment personnel.

    The E-2D programme has reportedly been recognised among the U.S. Navy’s top acquisition programmes for 2023, 2024 and 2025 by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition.

  • FG pushes digital literacy, inclusion, child protection ahead of 2026 Children’s Day celebration

    FG pushes digital literacy, inclusion, child protection ahead of 2026 Children’s Day celebration

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusion, digital literacy and social protection for Nigerian children as part of activities marking the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration.

    Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, disclosed this during a media briefing held on Friday in Abuja ahead of the celebration themed: “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child.”

    According to the minister, the theme reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian child is included regardless of gender, disability, socio-economic background, religion, ethnicity or geographical location.

    “The Nigerian child is no longer viewed merely as a passive recipient of welfare interventions, but as an active participant in national transformation, innovation, leadership and sustainable development,” she said.

    Sulaiman-Ibrahim revealed that the ministry had intensified implementation of the “Future Now Initiative” aimed at equipping children with digital literacy, STEM education, innovation exposure, artificial intelligence awareness and other future-ready skills needed to compete in the global digital economy.

    She added that through the National Children’s Parliament, the ministry has continued to strengthen child participation and child-friendly programmes to ensure children contribute to discussions and decisions affecting their wellbeing.

    “This will ensure that children are not merely beneficiaries of policies, but active contributors to discussions and decisions affecting their lives and wellbeing,” she added.

    Also speaking, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Muyi Aina, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accessible and affordable healthcare for all Nigerians.

    “We must recommit ourselves to building a healthier, safer and more inclusive Nigeria where no child is left behind,” he stated.

    He further called on parents, caregivers, teachers, traditional rulers, faith leaders, the media and other stakeholders to continue supporting immunisation, adolescent health, nutrition, maternal and child healthcare as well as child protection initiatives.

    Director of Programme Operations at Save the Children Nigeria, Mr Joshua Anar, stressed the need for stakeholders to move beyond commitments and take concrete actions toward strengthening child protection, education and inclusive services for every Nigerian child.

    “Today’s event is not only a celebration of children, but also a reminder of our collective responsibility to create an inclusive Nigeria where every child has equal opportunity to thrive,” he said.

    Acting Chief Child Protection Officer at UNICEF, Mona Aika, also reaffirmed commitment to strengthening child protection systems, preventing violence and harmful practices, and ensuring children’s rights are protected in every environment.

    Country Director of Girl Effect Nigeria, Mrs Boladale Akin-Kolapo, urged stakeholders to continue building inclusive, safe and responsive systems that address the needs of every child.

    “Let us continue to amplify children’s voices, protect their rights and create opportunities that allow them to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.

    Deputy Speaker of the Nigeria Children’s Parliament, Ibrahim Zanna-Sunoma, emphasised the need to invest in equitable opportunities, break barriers of exclusion and create a Nigeria where every child is seen, protected and empowered.

    “Anything for us without us is not truly for us. Let them not fail in their responsibility to protect, nurture and empower every child,” he stated.