Technology
Drone, AI Training Boosts Nigeria Security Efforts as Officers Seek Government Support
A multi-agency security training programme focused on drones and artificial intelligence has drawn praise from participants in Lagos, as officers call for urgent government support to modernise Nigeria’s security operations.
The two-day “Drone & Intelligence Training for Security Personnel,” held at the Police Training College Ikeja, brought together security agencies, experts and stakeholders to explore how emerging technologies can improve crime prevention.
Organised by Societal Concerns Organization in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, the programme aimed to strengthen intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation.
Why it matters
Nigeria continues to face complex security challenges, from banditry to urban crime, pushing authorities to explore technology-driven solutions.
Participants said the training highlights a shift from reactive policing to proactive strategies using drones and AI to detect threats before they escalate.
“Prevention is cheaper and easier than cure,” one participant said, stressing the need to stay ahead of increasingly tech-savvy criminals.
‘Beautiful and fantastic’ training but gaps remain
Speaking to journalists, DC Adewale Adedola Adeleke of the Lagos State Special Task Force for the Nigeria Forest Security Service described the programme as impactful.
“This training is beautiful and fantastic. It will help us carry out our duties both in the forest and in the cities,” he said.
However, he raised concerns about operational challenges.
He cited lack of mobility, absence of official patrol vehicles, and insufficient equipment including drones as major setbacks.
“We don’t have operational vehicles. Officers use their personal cars for patrols. We need drones and support to perform better,” he added.
He also highlighted regional disparities, noting that some northern states are better equipped with rifles and dozens of operational vehicles.
Technology reshaping policing strategy
ACP Barrister Ajanaku Ibrahim Kayode of the Advanced Training Wing at the college said the programme reflects a shift in policing philosophy.
“We are moving from reactive policing to proactive policing — preventing crimes before they occur,” he said.
He explained that participants were trained in drone operations, intelligence gathering, and community policing strategies.
The programme also emphasised collaboration among agencies.
“All security agencies share the same goal — protecting lives and property,” he added.
Call for wider adoption and support
Prince Hammed Adeyinka Yusuf, Secretary to Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA Chairman, described the initiative as timely and necessary.
“This programme is apt and applaudable. It is essential for building the capacity of our security personnel,” he said.
He urged wider publicity and adoption, noting that its benefits extend beyond participants to society at large.
Rare inter-agency collaboration
Ambassador Samuel, representing the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), said the programme marked a rare moment of unity across Nigeria’s security architecture.
According to him, more than 15 enforcement agencies participated.
“This is unprecedented. Bringing agencies together to learn intelligence and drone operations will help save lives,” he said.
He warned that criminals are increasingly using advanced technologies, making it critical for security forces to adapt.
Government, private sector urged to act
Speakers repeatedly called on federal and state governments to prioritise funding for security technology.
They also urged corporate organisations to support such initiatives through corporate social responsibility programmes.
“We need government and even presidential support to scale this initiative nationwide,” Ambassador Samuel added.
What’s next
Organisers say they plan to expand the programme and engage international partners, including UN bodies, to deepen capacity building across Nigeria.
Participants also pledged to apply the knowledge gained to improve intelligence-led operations in their respective agencies.
Technology
BOCA Convertible Laptop Launches in Nigeria, Targeting Durability and Everyday Productivity
A Nigerian tech company, Boca IT Ltd., has launched a new 2-in-1 device, the BOCA Convertible Laptop, aimed at professionals, students and remote workers seeking durability and flexibility.
The company says the device is designed to function both as a laptop and a tablet, offering multiple usage modes for work, study and entertainment.
It enters a competitive market where affordability, battery life and resilience are key concerns for many users.
Why it matters
Nigeria’s growing digital economy has increased demand for reliable devices, particularly as more people work remotely or study online.
However, users often face challenges such as unstable electricity, harsh weather conditions and the physical strain of daily commuting.
Boca IT Ltd. says the new device is built with these realities in mind.
“We didn’t just want to create another laptop. We wanted to create a tool that empowers Nigerians without fear of breakdown,” the company’s product team said.
“The BOCA Convertible Laptop is tough, versatile, and affordable. It is the smartest investment for anyone serious about productivity.”
Key features
The company highlights several features intended to differentiate the device:
A 360-degree hinge designed for multiple usage modes, including tablet and presentation formats
A shock-absorbent, scratch-resistant body aimed at reducing damage from drops and daily wear
A 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen with anti-glare protection
A 10,000mAh battery, offering up to 10 hours of use
8GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage, with support for multitasking
Multiple ports including USB, HDMI and microSD for connectivity
Built for local conditions
The company says the device has undergone testing for heat, dust and impact, reflecting environmental challenges common across Nigeria.
Industry analysts say such localisation could be a key selling point.
Tech market observers note that while international brands dominate Nigeria’s laptop space, locally positioned products that address real-life usage conditions may gain traction.
Industry and consumer perspective
For students and remote workers, the ability to switch between tablet and laptop modes could offer added convenience.
Parents and educators may also see appeal in more durable devices for e-learning, particularly in households with younger users.
However, pricing and long-term performance will likely determine how well the product competes with established global brands.
What’s next
Boca IT Ltd. says the device is now available for purchase, with plans to target bulk buyers, including schools, businesses and institutions.
The company is also seeking partnerships to expand distribution across Nigeria.
Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) has launched the third edition of its “Take on Squad” Hackathon, inviting developers, designers and entrepreneurs across Nigeria to create technology solutions for real-world challenges.
The initiative, announced on 2 April 2026 in Lagos, is part of the group’s broader strategy to support innovation and digital transformation across Africa.
Now in its third year, the hackathon will focus on the theme “Smart Systems: The Intelligent Economy,” challenging participants to design data-driven tools that improve how people and businesses interact with money.
Applications are currently open via the official portal: https://squadco.com/hackathon
Why it matters
Africa’s digital economy is expanding rapidly, with fintech innovation reshaping how people access financial services.
By bringing together tech talent to build solutions in sectors such as financial services, healthcare, commerce and digital inclusion, GTCO aims to bridge gaps in access and efficiency.
The programme also highlights the growing role of private sector-led innovation in addressing systemic challenges in emerging markets.
Driving innovation through collaboration
Participants in the hackathon will work in teams, using Squad’s application programming interfaces (APIs) to develop scalable tools for businesses and individuals.
The event is organised by HabariPay, GTCO’s fintech subsidiary, which focuses on enabling digital payments and supporting businesses in an evolving economy.
Speaking on the initiative, Eduophon Japhet, Managing Director of HabariPay, said:
“Today’s dynamic, digitally driven world demands continuous innovation, which is shaping how economies grow, how businesses scale, and how societies evolve.”
He added:
“Through ‘Take on Squad’ Hackathon, we are deliberately investing in the ideas and talent that will define the future.”
“Our objective is not simply to encourage innovation, but to enable its translation into scalable solutions that deliver real and measurable impact.”
Industry and ecosystem impact
Hackathons like this are increasingly seen as pipelines for startup growth and digital talent development in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.
Experts say such initiatives provide young innovators with exposure, mentorship and tools needed to turn ideas into viable products.
They also help financial institutions like GTCO stay competitive by tapping into grassroots innovation and emerging trends.
About HabariPay and Squad
HabariPay Ltd, a subsidiary of GTCO, is licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria and provides digital payment solutions to businesses of all sizes.
Its offerings include Squad, a payment platform that enables seamless in-person and online transactions.
The company has received industry recognition, including Mastercard’s Innovative Mobile Payment Solution Award at the Technology Innovation Awards (TIA) 2022 for its SquadPOS solution.
More details about Squad can be found at: http://www.squadco.com
What’s next
Successful participants are expected to develop solutions that could scale beyond the hackathon, potentially contributing to Africa’s broader digital transformation.
With applications now open, attention will turn to the ideas generated and whether they can translate into practical tools that reshape everyday financial interactions.
Nigeria has signalled its ambition to play a bigger role in shaping global data governance, as the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Joseph Tegbe, attended the inaugural World Data Organization (WDO) assembly in Beijing.
Why it matters
The high-level meeting brought together more than 500 participants, including government officials, multilateral institutions, and technology experts, to discuss the future of data governance and the digital economy.
For Nigeria, the event highlights growing efforts to position itself as a key player in global conversations around data access, security, and cross-border data flows.
Nigeria’s growing digital ambitions
Mr Tegbe, accompanied by NCSP Head of International Relations Ms Judy Melifonwu, represented Nigeria at the gathering, signalling the country’s increasing interest in global digital cooperation—particularly with China.
His participation reflects ongoing moves to align Nigeria’s digital policies with international standards and opportunities.
“Participation at this level presents significant opportunities to engage in global standard-setting discussions on data governance and cross-border data flows.”
Global push for coordinated data governance
The assembly featured a keynote address by Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, who spoke on behalf of President Xi Jinping.
He emphasised the need for coordinated global action to unlock the value of data while ensuring security, inclusiveness, and trust in the digital economy.
Experts at the event highlighted how data is increasingly seen as a strategic asset, driving innovation, trade, and economic growth worldwide.
Opportunities for Nigeria
Nigeria’s presence at the assembly could open several doors, including:
Stronger bilateral cooperation with China on digital infrastructure
Increased investment and innovation in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem
Greater participation in global data policy frameworks
Access to knowledge exchange and emerging digital markets
Analysts say such engagements are critical as African economies seek to compete in a data-driven global landscape.
Industry and public perspective
Digital economy observers note that Nigeria’s involvement in global data discussions comes at a time when countries are racing to regulate artificial intelligence, data privacy, and cross-border data shari
They say active participation could help Nigeria influence policies that affect its growing tech sector and protect local interests.
What’s next
The creation of the World Data Organization marks a new phase in international collaboration on digital transformation.
With continued engagement, Nigeria is expected to deepen its role in shaping global data frameworks while leveraging partnerships to boost its digital economy.
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