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LEAP Africa has appointed six new directors to its Board as the organisation seeks to strengthen youth development and expand opportunities for young Africans in leadership, entrepreneurship and employability.

The appointments come amid growing concerns over youth unemployment and the need to equip young people with practical skills, professional guidance and opportunities to participate meaningfully in Africa’s economic development.

According to the organisation, the appointments will strengthen its governance and bring expertise from telecommunications, finance, investment, technology and international development to support its pan-African mission.

Clare Omatseye, Board Chair of LEAP Africa, said strong governance was central to the organisation’s ability to deliver lasting impact, adding that the new directors’ professional accomplishments, leadership experience and commitment to Africa’s development would enrich the board’s deliberations and strengthen its strategic oversight.

She said the appointments reflected LEAP Africa’s commitment to building a resilient institution capable of responding to the challenges and opportunities facing young Africans.

Kehinde Ayeni, Executive Director of LEAP Africa, said the organisation was at an important stage in its development, noting that the new directors’ experience, networks and strategic insights would create opportunities for collaboration and innovation as it expands its programmes.

She added that their contributions would be valuable in improving the reach and quality of the organisation’s interventions.

The newly appointed directors are Toyin Akinniyi, Regional Portfolio Director at Luminate; Bella Disu, Executive Vice Chairman of Globacom; Ifeoma Finnih, Director, Infrastructure and Climate at Chapel Hill Denham; Remilekun Soyannwo, Chief Executive Officer of Shell Pension Fund; Sobel Ngom, Chief Executive Officer of Tostan International; and Victor Onyenkpa, former Chief Operating Officer of KPMG Africa.

With programmes covering education, entrepreneurship, employability, active citizenship, health and wellbeing, LEAP Africa focuses on preparing young people to become ethical leaders capable of driving positive change in their communities.

The organisation said it had reached more than 12 million indirect beneficiaries across Nigeria and 48 African countries.

The appointments also highlight the importance of combining private-sector expertise with youth development initiatives, particularly as African countries seek ways to address unemployment, strengthen entrepreneurship and prepare younger generations for an increasingly competitive economy.

However, the broader challenge remains how leadership and employability programmes can translate into measurable opportunities, including decent jobs, sustainable businesses, professional development and greater participation in economic growth.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said his administration was committed to the Lagos State Development Plan 2052 to promote sustainable growth and attract investment, adding that the state aims to grow its economy to nearly one trillion dollars by 2052.

He said the Lagos 2052 Development Plan, a long-term blueprint comprising 447 initiatives across 21 strategic sectors, aims to position the state as Africa’s model megacity and a globally competitive economic and financial hub; focuses on four major pillars: a thriving economy, a human-centred city, modern infrastructure and effective governance.

The governor spoke as a guest speaker at the Lagos Executive Business Breakfast Meeting, organised by the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), held in Lekki, Lagos, under the theme, ‘The Future of Lagos: Business, Investment and Global Competitiveness.’

Sanwo-Olu, who called for sustained investment in infrastructure, technology, human capital and business-friendly policies, said improved port efficiency, technological innovation and increased investment in Lagos had significantly boosted manufacturing, created job opportunities and strengthened economic activity nationwide.

He said his administration had, since May 29, 2019, created opportunities and positively impacted the lives of millions of Lagosians through the delivery of good governance and the dividends of democracy.

Sanwo-Olu said he would like to be remembered as a Governor who touched the lives of Lagos residents based on their individual needs in different areas such as transportation, health, education, economic empowerment, security and infrastructure.

Speaking about his administration’s achievements, Governor Sanwo-Olu pointed to the development of the Blue and Red rail lines, improvements in electricity regulation, expanded digital connectivity, and investment in healthcare and education as critical to Lagos’ long-term competitiveness.

He also identified the Lekki Deep Sea Port, industrial developments, and the State’s growing technology and creative sectors as important drivers of economic growth and regional trade.

The governor disclosed that Lagos was strengthening support for small and medium-sized enterprises through financing and grants, while promoting innovation and developing a skilled workforce to meet the needs of emerging industries.

Governor Sanwo-Olu disclosed that Lagos State’s budget had grown from about N700 billion in 2019 to N4.2 trillion in 2026, reflecting expanding investment needs and the importance of improving revenue generation to sustain development.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to building an economy capable of attracting global investment, creating jobs and improving residents’ quality of life.

Governor Sanwo-Olu urged members of the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce to see Lagos as more than a large consumer market, but as a platform for production, innovation, regional trade and international investment.

In his speech, the President and Chairman of the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Abimbola Olashore, called for a stronger collaboration between government, businesses and investors to improve the business environment, attract investment and strengthen Lagos’ global competitiveness.

Olashore reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to promoting Nigeria-United Kingdom trade and investment relations.

The welfare cost of debt servicing lies not simply in the payments governments make to creditors, but in the development opportunities that competing public expenditure demands may leave unfunded. In Nigeria, the scale of that trade-off is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. The Federal Government has allocated N15.8tn to debt servicing in its 2026 budget, approximately N3.16tn more than the combined allocations for agriculture, health, works, defence, and education.

The comparison, contained in an October 2026 assessment by CFG Advisory, highlights the growing weight of debt obligations on public finances. At 23.1 percent of the N68.32tn federal budget, debt servicing takes up almost one-quarter of total government expenditure, making it the single largest spending item in the appropriation.

The five sectors have a combined allocation of approximately N12.64tn: N1.45tn for agriculture and food security, N2.15tn for health, N3.49tn for works, N3.15tn for defence and N2.40tn for education. Individually, their allocations are between 4.5 and 10.9 times smaller than the debt-service provision.

The imbalance extends beyond these sectors. Debt servicing is also larger than the N12.95tn allocated to capital expenditure across the federal government. This means the government has committed more resources to meeting existing debt obligations than to financing its entire capital investment programme.

The comparison does not mean that funds allocated to these sectors have been transferred to creditors. Debt obligations are contractual, while budget allocations reflect competing government priorities. Rather, it illustrates the opportunity cost of servicing accumulated liabilities and the increasingly limited room available for other public expenditure.

The pressure on fiscal space

In public finance, fiscal space refers to the government’s ability to raise and deploy additional resources without undermining its financial stability or ability to meet existing obligations. When debt servicing absorbs a growing proportion of revenue, that space becomes narrower.

The implications extend to the economy’s productive capacity. Greater investment in roads could reduce transport costs and improve access to markets, while healthcare and education spending can strengthen human capital and labour productivity. Agricultural investment can improve food production, storage and distribution.

These investments can generate economic and social returns over time. But when a substantial share of public resources is committed to debt repayments, governments have less flexibility to expand them without increasing revenue, cutting other expenditure or borrowing further.

The distinction between debt servicing and other spending is also important. Debt servicing includes interest payments and principal repayments, while capital expenditure finances the acquisition or construction of assets. Although both are legitimate budgetary obligations, their economic implications differ. Capital investment can create infrastructure that supports future production, whereas debt servicing fulfils obligations arising from previous financing decisions.

CFG Advisory’s assessment also places debt servicing alongside other major expenditure commitments. Recurrent non-debt expenditure is allocated N11.5tn, while statutory transfers receive N4.8tn. The figures show how much of the federal budget is already committed before additional development demands are considered.

The concern is not that debt servicing is inherently unproductive. Nigeria must honour its obligations to maintain access to domestic and international capital markets. The problem arises when the cost of meeting those obligations grows faster than the government’s capacity to generate revenue and finance new investments.

When borrowing becomes a constraint

The composition and purpose of public borrowing are central to determining whether debt strengthens or weakens economic growth. Borrowing to finance infrastructure such as power plants, railways and roads can create productive assets whose benefits extend beyond the repayment period. Such projects can reduce business costs, improve connectivity and expand economic activity, potentially strengthening future government revenue.

Borrowing to meet recurrent obligations presents a different challenge. Salaries and administrative expenditure are necessary for public services, but financing routine obligations through repeated borrowing does not automatically create assets or additional revenue streams. Where new loans are used to meet existing financial commitments, governments risk accumulating further repayment obligations without a corresponding expansion in productive capacity.

The resulting cycle can become self-reinforcing: higher borrowing creates additional interest and principal repayments, which narrow future budgets and increase pressure to borrow again. The risks are compounded by the structure of Nigeria’s debt. Domestic borrowing exposes the government to interest costs in the local financial market, while external borrowing creates foreign-currency obligations. Depreciation of the naira increases the domestic cost of servicing dollar-denominated debt, even when the amount owed in foreign currency remains unchanged.

High government borrowing can also affect private-sector financing. Where government securities offer attractive returns, financial institutions may prefer them to lending to businesses perceived as carrying greater risks. This can raise financing costs for companies seeking to expand production, invest in equipment and create jobs.

The broader concern is that the government may be spending more on servicing existing debt while businesses continue to face high financing costs and infrastructure constraints. That combination can weaken private investment and economic expansion needed to broaden the tax base.

CFG Advisory projects that Nigeria’s external debt could approach $60bn and domestic debt exceed N100tn by the end of 2026. These are projections rather than confirmed year-end figures, but they reinforce concerns about the future cost of public borrowing.

The accountability tests

The fiscal implications become more significant as the Federal Government pursues additional external financing exceeding $21bn. While new borrowing could help address infrastructure deficits and development needs, its justification depends on the economic returns of the projects financed and the government’s ability to meet the resulting obligations.

CFG Advisory has called for an urgent compliance audit of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 and the publication of outstanding budget performance reports to provide a clearer picture of the Federal Government’s fiscal position.

The recommendations point to a fundamental requirement of responsible borrowing: governments must demonstrate how much they earn, how much they spend, what they owe and what they have achieved with borrowed funds.

Budget performance reports are particularly important because approved allocations do not necessarily translate into actual expenditure or completed projects. A government may appropriate funds for a road, hospital or school without releasing the full amount, completing construction or making the facility operational. Without timely reporting, it becomes difficult to determine whether borrowing has generated productive assets or simply increased future repayment obligations.

The government should therefore provide regular information on debt-service payments, outstanding liabilities, new borrowing and capital budget implementation. It should also demonstrate how loans are linked to projects with measurable economic and social benefits.

Ultimately, Nigeria’s debt challenge is not simply about the volume of money owed. It is about the balance between meeting obligations accumulated in the past and financing the investments needed to improve living standards and sustain economic growth.

Debt servicing protects the government’s credibility with creditors, but fiscal credibility must also be supported by the capacity to generate revenue and deliver development. If repayment obligations continue to absorb a growing share of public resources without a corresponding expansion in productive capacity, the cost will extend beyond government accounts to the infrastructure, public services and economic opportunities the country struggles to provide.

Educators from more than 350 schools across Lagos and Ogun states have been empowered with skills required to meet the demands of 21st-century learning.

This move was championed by Dufil Prima Foods Ltd, makers of Indomie Instant Noodles, as part of its sustained investment in the people shaping Nigeria’s next generation at its 17th Annual Indomie Teachers Seminar held in Lagos

The seminar focused on practical approaches to classroom engagement, technology adoption and inclusive education. It also highlighted how engagement with school communities extends beyond pupils to include the educators who shape their everyday learning experiences.

Themed ’21st Century Teaching Essentials: Engagement, Technology and Inclusion for Nigerian Educators,’ the seminar explored ways to make lessons more interactive, encourage pupil participation and respond to different learning needs.

Facilitating the seminar, Professor Mojisola Manuel, an early childhood education specialist at the University of Lagos and Acting Director of its Career Development Centre, examined how teachers could move beyond teacher-centred lectures and rote memorisation towards methods that promote critical thinking, problem-solving and active learner participation. She encouraged educators to consider how engagement, technology and inclusion could be applied in their classrooms.

Speaking at the event, Faith Ogechukwu Joshua, National Coordinator of the Indomie Fan Club, highlighted the relationship between the Indomie Fan Club and teachers within the school community. Through its school-based activities, the Fan Club engages pupils in an environment where teachers guide their learning and daily experiences.

She noted that the connection through a pep talk to participating teachers and interactive activities helps boost the grooming of a well-rounded child who would contribute to Nigeria’s economy in the future.

In a goodwill message, Oluwakemi Olusaanu, Director, Ministry of Education, Lagos State, urged participants to apply the lessons gained rather than allow the seminar to become an annual routine. She emphasised that its value would be reflected in how teachers translated their learning into better classroom experiences for pupils. She commended Dufil for maintaining the programme and encouraged the company to continue.

Welcoming participants earlier, Temitope Ashiwaju, General Manager, Corporate Communications and Events at Dufil Prima Foods Ltd, highlighted the importance of teachers to the programme and their influence on children’s enduring affection for the brand.

Ashiwaju said that Dufil’s broader social investment cuts across education, health and community development, including scholarships for financially disadvantaged students, provision of books and support for school programmes spanning more than two decades.

Now in its 17th edition, the seminar reflects Dufil’s engagement with the wider school community, bringing educators into the conversation alongside its school-based activities with pupils and encouraging the application of approaches that can enrich classroom learning.

The restoration of Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo’s name on the list of candidates cleared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to contest the 2027 Kano governorship election could provide a political boost to the National Democratic Congress (NDC), although the controversy surrounding his initial exclusion may also present challenges for his electoral ambition.

The NDC believes the episode has increased public sympathy for its candidate, expanded its support base and given the party greater visibility in Kano’s increasingly competitive political environment ahead of the 2027 election.

However, political observers may also view the controversy as an early test of the party’s organisational strength, electoral preparedness and ability to sustain public interest beyond the dispute over its candidate’s eligibility.

Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu, spokesperson to Gwarzo, said the party was convinced from the beginning that the omission would eventually be reversed because it had complied with all the electoral requirements, including party membership registration, nomination procedures and submission of the candidate’s particulars to INEC.

He said the party was therefore not frightened by the commission’s initial decision, which it regarded as a temporary setback rather than a threat to its participation in the election.

The controversy followed the omission of Gwarzo and his running mate, Mustapha Kwankwaso, from the INEC’s list of candidates cleared to contest the 2027 Kano governorship election.

The development prompted the NDC to challenge the omission at the FCT High Court in Abuja, while members of the Kwankwasiyya political movement protested against the exclusion and demanded the restoration of the candidates’ names.

INEC subsequently restored Gwarzo’s name to the list, allowing him to continue his preparations for the governorship contest.

Shuaibu said the development had ultimately worked in the party’s favour, attracting attention and supporters who might otherwise not have identified with the NDC.

‘We were not frightened because we followed all the laid-down procedures, from party membership to the nomination process and submission of our candidate’s details,’ he said.

He added: ‘What the electoral commission intended as a setback has actually worked in our favour. It has increased our supporters, strengthened our popularity and made more people identify with us.’

Potential political gains

The reinstatement could offer Gwarzo an opportunity to turn the controversy into a political advantage, particularly by presenting himself as a candidate who stood his ground in the face of an electoral challenge.

First, the dispute has given the NDC and its governorship candidate publicity that would ordinarily require considerable resources and sustained political activities to generate.

For a party seeking to establish itself as a serious contender in Kano, the attention could help introduce its platform and leadership to voters beyond its existing support base.

Second, the controversy could strengthen Gwarzo’s relationship with supporters of the Kwankwasiyya movement, whose protests against the omission demonstrated their willingness to defend his candidacy.

Such solidarity could become an important political asset if the NDC succeeds in converting the sympathy generated by the dispute into organised grassroots support.

Third, the eventual restoration of his name could help Gwarzo portray the episode as a victory for due process and electoral participation, strengthening his argument that his candidacy is legitimate.

The development may also provide an opportunity for the NDC to position itself as an alternative political platform for voters dissatisfied with the established political parties in the state.

In an election environment where political visibility, party structures and voter mobilisation are important determinants of electoral performance, the additional attention could give the NDC an opportunity to expand its presence.

Possible political setbacks

Despite these potential advantages, the controversy could also expose weaknesses that may affect Gwarzo’s chances if the party fails to manage its political implications.

One possible disadvantage is that the dispute may have shifted attention from the candidate’s policy agenda to the question of his eligibility.

While the controversy has generated publicity, electoral visibility does not automatically translate into votes. Gwarzo would still need to convince voters that he has practical solutions to Kano’s challenges, including unemployment, insecurity, education, healthcare, infrastructure and the rising cost of living.

Another challenge is the possibility that the party could become overly dependent on the sympathy generated by the INEC controversy rather than building a sustainable political structure.

The NDC would need to demonstrate that the supporters attracted by the dispute are committed voters who can be mobilised across the state’s 44 local government areas, rather than people whose interest may diminish once the controversy fades.

The party also faces the challenge of competing against established political organisations with deeper grassroots structures, stronger financial resources and extensive networks across Kano.

The political influence of the major parties, particularly the APC and NNPP, means that increased publicity alone may not be sufficient to translate into a strong electoral challenge.

Furthermore, the initial omission could leave questions among some voters about the party’s internal administrative processes and preparedness, even though INEC subsequently restored the candidate’s name.

The NDC would therefore need to sustain public confidence by demonstrating organisational discipline, electoral preparedness and a clear understanding of the requirements for the forthcoming election.

The bigger 2027 challenge

Beyond the immediate controversy, Gwarzo’s prospects will depend largely on his ability to convert the publicity surrounding his reinstatement into a broader political movement.

Kano’s political landscape is characterised by strong party loyalties, influential political figures and intense competition for grassroots support. Consequently, the NDC will need more than public sympathy to establish itself as a credible alternative.

The candidate’s ability to build alliances, attract influential political stakeholders, mobilise young voters and present a convincing development agenda will be important in determining whether the current attention translates into electoral gains.

The party will also have to ensure that its campaign focuses on issues affecting ordinary residents rather than allowing the INEC controversy to dominate its political message.

Shuaibu said the party would continue to mobilise voters and promote its programmes across the state, expressing confidence that the development had strengthened Gwarzo’s chances in the forthcoming election.

Ultimately, INEC’s reversal could become an important turning point in Gwarzo’s political journey. But whether it becomes an electoral advantage or merely a temporary publicity boost will depend on how effectively the NDC consolidates the goodwill generated by the controversy into a credible campaign, a strong grassroots organisation and measurable voter support.

For years, examination malpractice has cast a long shadow over the credibility of Nigeria’s secondary school education system, raising concerns about academic standards, student integrity and the value of certificates.

In 2022, the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), had a 22.83 percent exam malpractice record; the following year, WAEC recorded 16.29 percent malpractice out of over 1.6 million candidates who sat the examination.

The decline was also noticed in 2024, with 11.92 percent involved in exam malpractice, which is a 4.37 percent decline compared to the previous year.

The trend continued in 2025, with a 9.75 percent exam malpractice rate out of the over 1.9 million candidates registered. In 2026, the exam malpractice incidents amounted to 8.59 percent of the about two million candidates who sat the exam.

When compared to the previous year, that is a 1.16 percent drop.

In the National Examinations Council (NECO), there was 0.13 percent exam malpractice in 2022, with 13,594 people involved, while in 2023, the record dropped to 0.07 percent.

In 2024, 8,437 people, as against 12,030 in 2023, were involved in exam malpractice (0.0061percent), which amounts to a 30.1 percent drop, while 3,878 candidates were involved in malpractice in 2025, and 1,496 candidates in 2026.

Behind the numbers is a story of changing examination practices, increased use of technology, tougher monitoring and sanctions, and efforts by schools to rebuild a culture in which academic achievement is valued over shortcuts.

What is driving Nigeria’s exam malpractice decline?

Moyo Adesina, the WAEC spokesperson, told BusinessDay that the council, in addition to serialisation and digitalisation of examinations, embarked on sensitisation on the negative impacts of examination malpractice across many schools.

Besides, she said that WAEC has in place a cyber-team that monitors its examinations and is taking punitive actions against roadside operators and individuals aiding examination malpractice in Nigeria.

According to Adesina, WAEC has an increased focus on improving invigilator training to ensure proper supervision, which entails enhanced supervision and monitoring, identified as a key strategy, supported by a significant percentage of respondents.

‘WAEC has intensified its collaboration with security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, to track down and prosecute individuals involved in malpractice, as well as rogue website operators who falsely claim access to leaked examination materials.

‘Nationwide sensitisation campaigns through seminars, flyers, posters, and banners are also being deployed to educate candidates, school authorities, and parents on the dangers and consequences of examination malpractice,’ she stated.

Moreover, she said the council embarked on the use of different examination centres, rather than allowing schools to write exams in their own facilities, to reduce malpractice; besides, changing questions for each geopolitical zone and randomising the objective questions.

Dantani Wushishi, the NECO registrar, attributed the exam malpractice decline to the vigilance and support of security agencies, particularly the NSCDC and DSS.

Tech as an unseen enabler

Some stakeholders believe that the apparent decline must be carefully examined, as technology may also be giving malpractice new and less visible forms.

Akintunde Opawole, a data-AI product expert, emphasised that technology has made exam malpractice quieter, smaller and harder to spot.

He noted that the old image of a student copying from a neighbour or hiding a sheet of paper in a sleeve is outdated. Multiple-choice exams such as WAEC and NECO are especially exposed, because each answer is a single letter.

‘A student only needs to receive one letter per question, and that can be done with very little tech, such as AI smart glasses, miniature earpieces, smartwatches, and other wearables, and paid online solvers and AI tools, among others.

‘AI smart glasses with a built-in camera and AI assistant can capture a question, process it, and return the answer through a tiny speaker near the ear or a display in the lens. They look like ordinary eyewear, which makes them very hard for an invigilator to question,’ he said.

Opawole pointed out that some earpieces are small enough to sit deep in the ear canal and are nearly invisible.

‘A helper outside the hall, or someone with the answers, can read them out in real time,’ he noted.

Moreover, he revealed that a tech-enabled impersonation such as deepfakes, edited photos and forged identity documents can be used to have someone else sit the exam, especially where identity checks are weak.

‘These methods work mostly because our exam systems still rely on a model built for a pre-smartphone era,’ he said.

What can be done

Opawole calls for a ban on all wearables, including watches and glasses, in exam halls, and train invigilators to recognise smart eyewear.

‘The examiners should use metal and signal detectors at entry points, as is done in several other countries. Print different versions of the same paper, with shuffled question and option order, so that shared answers become useless.

‘Move gradually towards computer-based testing in secure centres, with randomised questions for each candidate. Over time, redesign assessments to test reasoning and application, so that a single letter answer carries less weight,’ he said.

In addition, he said, ‘Technology created this problem, and technology can also help solve it. But the biggest fix is a mix of better systems, stronger enforcement and a culture that rewards honest effort.’

Boye Ogundele, a parent, believes the exam bodies have started blocking the loopholes in the area of exam leaks.

‘If they can tackle the issue of cyber malpractice, definitely they will achieve more,’ he noted.

Susan Olarenwaju, a teacher, said that the notable reduction in examination malpractice recorded by national examination agencies in recent years is due to a combination of enhanced technological measures, stricter enforcement of penalties, and increased collaboration with security agencies.

Kylian Mbappe continued his impressive scoring form, converting a penalty as Real Madrid secured a 3-0 victory away to Racing Santander on Sunday.

Jude Bellingham and Yan Diomande were also on target as third-placed Madrid stayed within three points of La Liga leaders Barcelona, who thrashed Alaves 6-1 on Saturday.

Jose Mourinho’s side have now won six consecutive matches across all competitions and remain one point behind city rivals Atletico Madrid, who defeated Levante 2-0.

‘In the first half we were very strong; we came out to play well,’ Mourinho told reporters.

‘The team is growing and playing well; I think we should have scored even more goals with the chances we had.’

Mbappe put Real Madrid ahead in the 11th minute after winning a penalty following contact from Matteo Prati. The French forward made no mistake from the spot, sending his effort past the goalkeeper at the Sardinero Stadium.

It was the 27-year-old’s 12th league goal of the season, leaving him behind Barcelona’s Raphinha, who leads the scoring charts with 15.

Madrid controlled proceedings and doubled their advantage through Bellingham, who was sent through on goal by an excellent pass from Arda Guler.

The England international rounded the goalkeeper before calmly rolling the ball into the net for his 50th goal since joining the Spanish giants in 2023.

Guler missed a good opportunity to make it three after being set up by Mbappe, but Real Madrid eventually extended their lead when record signing Diomande unleashed a powerful effort from the edge of the penalty area.

The defeat handed 16th-placed Racing their first home defeat of the campaign.

Racing manager Jose Alberto expressed his frustration with the penalty awarded to Madrid.

‘Real Madrid’s penalty award annoys me,’ he told DAZN.

‘Evidently we came across a great Madrid, who put us under a lot of pressure in the first half hour and were much better than us.’

The digital age is no longer a distant future that societies anticipate with curiosity; it is the living reality that now shapes how people learn, worship, work, communicate, govern, trade and imagine the future. Technology has moved from being a specialised tool used by a select community of experts to becoming a defining force that influences nearly every aspect of human existence. Yet, amidst the excitement surrounding innovation, artificial intelligence, automation, cybersecurity and digital transformation, a critical question remains: are we merely looking at technology, or are we looking through it to understand its deeper implications for humanity?

My own engagement with technology has increasingly been shaped by what may be described as the interaction between the outer eyes and the inner eyes. The outer eyes observe technological developments, emerging platforms, changing digital behaviours, evolving cyber threats and groundbreaking innovations. The inner eyes, however, reflect on the meaning of these developments, their long-term consequences and the opportunities they create for individuals, institutions and nations. The future belongs not merely to those who see technology, but to those who understand what technology is doing to society and what society must do in response.

The digital revolution beyond devices

Many people still define technology in terms of devices, applications and machines. While these components remain important, technology today represents far more than hardware and software. It has become an ecosystem of ideas, relationships, data and influence. Smartphones, cloud platforms, artificial intelligence tools and digital networks are merely the visible expressions of a much deeper transformation.

The true revolution lies in the way technology reshapes human behaviour. It changes how decisions are made, how information is consumed and how opportunities are created. Organisations no longer compete solely on physical assets; they compete on knowledge, innovation and digital capability. Governments are increasingly evaluated by their ability to provide digital services. Educational institutions are redefining learning through virtual platforms, while businesses are reimagining value creation through data-driven strategies.

To understand this revolution, one must look beyond the screen. The most important technological developments are not always the devices we hold in our hands but the invisible changes occurring within our minds, cultures and institutions.

Why the inner eye matters

In a fast-paced technological environment, there is often an obsession with keeping up with trends. Every day introduces new systems, applications and digital conversations. However, the constant pursuit of novelty can sometimes distract society from deeper reflection.

The inner eye asks questions that technology itself cannot answer. It asks whether innovation is serving humanity or humanity is becoming subordinate to innovation. It asks whether efficiency is being achieved without sacrificing ethics. It examines whether technological growth is producing inclusion or deepening inequality.

Every significant technological breakthrough brings new opportunities and new responsibilities. Artificial intelligence can improve productivity, research and decision-making. Yet it also raises concerns about privacy, accountability and bias. Digital platforms can connect people globally, but they can also spread misinformation at unprecedented speed. Cybersecurity technologies can protect critical infrastructure, yet cybercriminals continuously seek new ways to exploit vulnerabilities.

The inner eye therefore performs a vital role. It enables leaders, professionals and citizens to move beyond excitement and engage in thoughtful stewardship of technological progress.

The challenge of digital discernment

One of the defining skills of the modern era is digital discernment. Information has become abundant, but wisdom remains scarce. The internet provides access to extraordinary quantities of knowledge, yet individuals still face the challenge of determining what is accurate, trustworthy and useful.

Digital discernment involves the ability to evaluate information critically, recognise manipulation, identify risks and make informed decisions. It requires intellectual discipline in an age characterised by information overload.

The consequences of poor discernment can be significant. Individuals may become victims of misinformation, fraud or cybercrime.

Organisations may make decisions based on inaccurate data. Nations may experience social tension driven by digital falsehoods.

For this reason, digital literacy must extend beyond technical competence. Citizens must learn how to think critically, verify sources and understand the broader context within which digital information is produced and consumed.

Cybersecurity as a human responsibility

Much of the public conversation around cybersecurity focuses on technology. Firewalls, encryption systems and security software are undoubtedly important. However, cybersecurity is fundamentally a human issue.

The majority of cyber incidents involve some form of human interaction. A deceptive email, an insecure password or an unverified link can create opportunities for attackers. Consequently, the strongest cybersecurity strategy is one that combines technological safeguards with human awareness.

In the years ahead, cybersecurity will become even more central to economic development, national security and institutional resilience. Digital trust will increasingly determine whether organisations succeed or fail in a connected world.

Building this trust requires continuous education, ethical leadership and proactive investment in digital resilience. Security should not be viewed as an afterthought but as a foundational element of digital transformation.

Innovation as a culture rather than an event

Another lesson emerging from the digital age is that innovation should not be treated as a single event. Rather, it must become a culture.

Many organisations admire innovation but struggle to cultivate environments where creativity can flourish. Sustainable innovation emerges when curiosity, experimentation and continuous learning become embedded within organisational culture.

Future-ready institutions encourage individuals to explore new ideas, challenge assumptions and adapt to changing realities. They understand that innovation is not confined to technology departments. It exists wherever people identify problems and develop better ways of solving them.

The nations that thrive in the coming decades will be those that nurture ecosystems of innovation, invest in education and empower future generations with relevant skills.

Preparing for the future before it arrives

One of the most dangerous assumptions in any era is the belief that tomorrow will resemble today. History repeatedly demonstrates that transformative change often arrives faster than expected.

Future readiness requires proactive thinking. Individuals must commit to lifelong learning. Organisations must anticipate disruption rather than react to it. Governments must create policies that encourage innovation while protecting public interests.

The future workplace will increasingly value adaptability, creativity, emotional intelligence, critical thinking and digital competence. Technical expertise will remain important, but the ability to learn, unlearn and relearn may become even more valuable.

Preparing for the future therefore involves more than acquiring new tools. It requires developing new mindsets capable of navigating uncertainty with confidence and purpose.

From observation to solution

Seeing problems without proposing solutions rarely changes realities. The digital age demands active engagement rather than passive observation. Whether addressing cybersecurity challenges, digital inequality, educational transformation or technological ethics, meaningful progress depends upon practical action.

Solutions emerge when insight is combined with responsibility. They emerge when researchers collaborate with policymakers, when educators engage with industry, when innovators consider social impact and when leaders place human wellbeing at the centre of technological advancement.

Technology should not be viewed as an end in itself. Its greatest value lies in its ability to improve lives, expand opportunities and create pathways towards sustainable development.

Conclusion: Seeing through technology

As humanity advances deeper into the digital era, the challenge is no longer simply to keep pace with technological change. The greater challenge is to understand it, shape it and direct it towards the common good.

The outer eyes will continue to observe emerging technologies, digital disruptions and global trends. The inner eyes must continue to ask deeper questions about ethics, purpose, human dignity and societal transformation. Together, they create a balanced perspective capable of turning innovation into meaningful progress.

My eyes, both inner and outer, remain fixed on technology and the tech-minded communities shaping our world. Yet they are looking beyond devices and platforms towards something greater: the possibility of using technology wisely, responsibly and creatively to solve today’s problems while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities.

The future will belong to those who can see beyond the screen, think beyond the moment and build beyond the present.

. Ademola is first African Professor of Cybersecurity and Information Technology Management; Global Education Advocate; Chartered Manager; UK Digital Journalist; Strategic Advisor and Prophetic Mobiliser for National Transformation; Public Intellectual; African Governance Thinker; General Evangelist, CAC Nigeria and Overseas.

Arsenal ended their 14-year wait for a Premier League victory at Anfield with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Liverpool on Sunday, moving three points clear at the top of the table.

Kai Havertz’s early strike secured all three points for Mikel Arteta’s side, who took advantage of Manchester City’s back-to-back defeats to strengthen their position in the title race.

The result gives Arsenal a three-point lead over second-placed Manchester City and leaves the Gunners nine points clear of Liverpool, who occupy fifth place.

The defending champions had to withstand sustained pressure after Havertz’s 16th-minute opener but held on for a potentially significant result in their bid to retain the title.

Liverpool produced an impressive response after falling behind, enjoying a dominant spell for much of the first half. However, they failed to convert their chances as manager Andoni Iraola suffered just his second defeat in 14 games since arriving from Bournemouth.

Arteta had been critical of his players following their shock League Cup exit to fourth-tier Fleetwood Town on Tuesday. The Arsenal manager demanded a response, and his side delivered with a strong opening spell at Anfield.

Havertz, who had missed several opportunities in the midweek defeat, made amends by turning home Declan Rice’s precise low cross in the 16th minute.

The goal sparked an entertaining first half as Liverpool pushed forward in search of an equaliser.

Iraola and Arteta were teammates as youngsters at Basque club Antiguoko Kirol Elkartea, but their friendship was put aside as the Liverpool manager sought to unsettle his former colleague’s side.

The defeat leaves fifth-placed Liverpool nine points behind the leaders, with their hopes of mounting a sustained title challenge facing an early setback.

Nigeria’s Flamingos have booked their place in the semi-finals of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after edging Venezuela 1-0 in a tense quarter-final on Sunday night, with Azeezat Oduntan converting a late penalty in the 89th minute.

The closely contested encounter saw Nigeria create several scoring opportunities but struggle to find a way past Venezuela goalkeeper Valeria Rebanales, who produced a series of saves to keep her side in the game.

The Flamingos enjoyed much of the attacking play in the first half, but Rebanales stood firm as Nigeria pushed for an opener. Midfielder Favour Nkwocha was booked as the contest grew increasingly tense.

Head coach Hakeem Busari made his first substitution by bringing on Precious Oscar for Oluwakemi Adegbuyi as Nigeria searched for a breakthrough.

The deadlock remained unbroken until the 88th minute, when the referee awarded Nigeria a penalty before being called to the pitchside monitor to review the decision.

After consulting the video assistant referee (VAR), the referee upheld the penalty. Oduntan stepped up and converted from the spot in the 89th minute to give Nigeria the decisive goal.

Top scorer Oluebube Umejiaku won the penalty, creating the opportunity for Oduntan to settle the contest.

The victory sends the Flamingos into the semi-finals, where they will face Brazil, who advanced with a 2-1 win over China in their quarter-final match.