Business
Technology has become the new backbone of statecraft – Governor Lawal
Technology has become the new backbone of statecraft – Governor Lawal
Governor of Zamfara State, His Excellency, Governor Dauda Lawal led an high powered delegation to the three day ongoing Digital Government Africa Summit in Lusaka, Zambia, where he delivered a compelling keynote address emphasizing the critical role of digitization in enhancing governance. During his opening remarks at the Ciela Resort Hotel, Dr Lawal was joined by notable leaders, including His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, along with several key government figures such as Hon. JJ Mwiimbu, the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Percy Chinyama, the National Coordinator of the SMART Zambia Institute, Hon. Felix Mutati (MP), Minister of Technology and Science, and Hon. Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Minister of Finance and National Planning.
In his address, Governor Lawal outlined Zamfara’s impressive journey towards digital transformation, detailing the establishment of a robust digital governance ecosystem that fosters innovative public service platforms aimed at increasing transparency, operational efficiency and active citizen engagement. He articulated the vision of Zamfara State as a pioneer in digital innovation across Africa, highlighting the state’s commitment to creating an inclusive development model.
During his keynote, Governor Lawal stated, “Across the continent, the digital revolution is steadily dismantling archaic methods of operation and forging new pathways for e-governance, trade, and investment opportunities.” He underscored that technology has become integral to modern governance, serving as the infrastructure that underpins institutions, enhances educational systems, optimizes security frameworks, and drives economic productivity. He illustrated how every sector now hinges on the dual foundations of data and connectivity, which are essential for effective governance in today’s digital age.
The governor further informed the audience that the Federal Republic of Nigeria has made significant strides toward this digital evolution through the implementation of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, overseen by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). He noted that this policy is pivotal in informing how technology interweaves with governance, industry, and innovation across the country. He shared that Zamfara State has aligned its strategic vision with this national directive by adopting a bold, homegrown reform agenda that prioritizes technology-centered governance and public service delivery. “For us in Zamfara State,” he emphasized, “digital transformation redefines how our government interacts with and serves its citizens. We envision governance that is present, intelligent, responsive, and guided by data.”
Highlighting tangible advancements, Governor Lawal showcased the innovative e-GovConnect platform, developed by the Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency. This platform automates numerous internal processes, reduces bureaucratic red tape, and facilitates faster policy execution. He noted that e-GovConnect has significantly streamlined decision-making, enhanced inter-agency cooperation, and bolstered financial accountability across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
In addition, Governor Lawal discussed the state’s digital literacy initiative, outlining its commitment to nurturing a digitally literate populace. He elaborated on diverse programs aimed at equipping young students with coding skills in schools, training public servants in data management, and empowering entrepreneurs with knowledge in e-commerce and financial technology. He stated, “By democratizing access to digital skills, we are fostering an environment where every citizen can actively contribute to the emerging economy.” To further this mission, the state has established the Zamfara Institute of Information Technology (ZIIT), a specialized institution dedicated to advanced studies in disciplines such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Blockchain, Game Development, and Data Analytics.
In recognition of these initiatives, President Hichilema congratulated Governor Dauda Lawal for spearheading Nigeria’s first state-level digital literacy program, the Zamfara Digital Literacy Framework (ZDLF), which positions Zamfara as a beacon of digital transformation. He expressed his eagerness to foster partnerships with Nigeria to leverage its abundant resources in harnessing a digital revolution that enhances governance delivery and functionality across the region.
Nigeria’s Inflation Drops to 15.10% as NBS Reports Deflationary Trend
Nigeria’s headline inflation rate declined to 15.10 per cent in January 2026, marking a significant drop from 27.61 per cent recorded in January 2025, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report released by the National Bureau of Statistics.
The report also showed that month-on-month inflation recorded a deflationary trend of –2.88 per cent, representing a 3.42 percentage-point decrease compared to December 2025. Analysts say the development signals easing price pressures across key sectors of the economy.
Food inflation stood at 8.89 per cent year-on-year, down from 29.63 per cent in January 2025. On a month-on-month basis, food prices declined by 6.02 per cent, reflecting lower costs in several staple commodities.
The data suggests a sustained downward trajectory in inflation over the past 12 months, pointing to improving macroeconomic stability.
The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has consistently attributed recent economic adjustments to ongoing fiscal and monetary reforms aimed at stabilising prices, boosting agricultural output, and strengthening domestic supply chains.
Economic analysts note that while the latest figures indicate progress, sustaining the downward trend will depend on continued policy discipline, exchange rate stability, and improvements in food production and distribution.
The January report provides one of the clearest indications yet that inflationary pressures, which surged in early 2025, may be moderating.
Nigeria’s headline inflation rate declined to 15.10 per cent in January 2026, marking a significant drop from 27.61 per cent recorded in January 2025, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report released by the National Bureau of Statistics.
The report also showed that month-on-month inflation recorded a deflationary trend of –2.88 per cent, representing a 3.42 percentage-point decrease compared to December 2025. Analysts say the development signals easing price pressures across key sectors of the economy.
Food inflation stood at 8.89 per cent year-on-year, down from 29.63 per cent in January 2025. On a month-on-month basis, food prices declined by 6.02 per cent, reflecting lower costs in several staple commodities.
The data suggests a sustained downward trajectory in inflation over the past 12 months, pointing to improving macroeconomic stability.
The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has consistently attributed recent economic adjustments to ongoing fiscal and monetary reforms aimed at stabilising prices, boosting agricultural output, and strengthening domestic supply chains.
Economic analysts note that while the latest figures indicate progress, sustaining the downward trend will depend on continued policy discipline, exchange rate stability, and improvements in food production and distribution.
The January report provides one of the clearest indications yet that inflationary pressures, which surged in early 2025, may be moderating.
Alpha Morgan to Host 19th Economic Review Webinar
In an economy shaped by constant shifts, the edge often belongs to those with the right information.
On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Alpha Morgan Bank will host the 19th edition of its Economic Review Webinar, a high-level thought leadership session designed to equip businesses, investors, and individuals with timely financial and economic insight.
The session, which will hold live on Zoom at 10:00am WAT and will feature economist Bismarck Rewane, who will examine the key signals influencing Nigeria’s economic direction in 2026, including policy trends, market movements, and global developments shaping the local landscape.
With a consistent track record of delivering clarity in uncertain times, the Alpha Morgan Economic Review continues to provide practical context for decision-making in a dynamic environment.
Registration for the 19th Alpha Morgan Economic Review is free and can be completed via https://bit.ly/registeramerseries19
It is a bi-monthly platform that is open to the public and is held virtually.
Visit www.alphamorganbank to know more.
GTBank Launches Quick Airtime Loan at 2.95%
Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (GTBank), the flagship banking franchise of GTCO Plc, Africa’s leading financial services group, today announced the launch of Quick Airtime Loan, an innovative digital solution that gives customers instant access to airtime when they run out of call credit and have limited funds in their bank accounts, ensuring customers can stay connected when it matters most.
In today’s always-on world, running out of airtime is more than a minor inconvenience. It can mean missed opportunities, disrupted plans, and lost connections, often at the very moment when funds are tight, and options are limited. Quick Airtime Loan was created to solve this problem, offering customers instant access to airtime on credit, directly from their bank. With Quick Airtime Loan, eligible GTBank customers can access from ₦100 and up to ₦10,000 by dialing *737*90#. Available across all major mobile networks in Nigeria, the service will soon expand to include data loans, further strengthening its proposition as a reliable on-demand platform.
For years, the airtime credit market has been dominated by Telcos, where charges for this service are at 15%. GTBank is now changing the narrative by offering a customer-centric, bank-led digital alternative priced at 2.95%. Built on transparency, convenience and affordability, Quick Airtime Loan has the potential to broaden access to airtime, deliver meaningful cost savings for millions of Nigerians, and redefine how financial services show up in everyday life, not just in banking moments.
Commenting on the product launch, Miriam Olusanya, Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd, said: “Quick Airtime Loan reflects GTBank’s continued focus on delivering digital solutions that are relevant, accessible, and built around real customer needs. The solution underscores the power of a connected financial ecosystem, combining GTBank’s digital reach and lending expertise with the capabilities of HabariPay to deliver a smooth, end-to-end experience. By leveraging unique strengths across the Group, we are able to accelerate innovation, strengthen execution, and deliver a more integrated customer experience across all our service channels.”
Importantly, Quick Airtime Loan highlights GTCO’s evolution as a fully diversified financial services group. Leveraging HabariPay’s Squad, the solution reinforces the Group’s ecosystem proposition by bringing together banking, payment technology, and digital channels to deliver intuitive, one-stop experiences for customers.
With this new product launch, Guaranty Trust Bank is extending its legacy of pioneering digital-first solutions that have redefined customer access to financial services across the industry, building on the proven strength of its widely adopted QuickCredit offering and the convenience of the Bank’s iconic *737# USSD Banking platform.
About Guaranty Trust Bank
Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) is the flagship banking franchise of GTCO Plc, a leading financial services group with a strong presence across Africa and the United Kingdom. The Bank is widely recognized for its leadership in digital banking, customer experience, and innovative financial solutions that deliver value to individuals, businesses, and communities.
About HabariPay
HabariPay is the payments fintech subsidiary of GTCO Plc, focused on enabling fast, secure, and accessible digital payments for individuals and businesses. By integrating payments and digital technology, HabariPay supports innovative services that make everyday financial interactions simpler and more seamless.
Enquiries:
GTCO
Group Corporate Communication
[email protected]
+234-1-2715227
www.gtcoplc.com
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