BY: Apansile Tiyinloluwa
In a grand celebration of technological innovation, the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) held its Annual National Information Technology Merit Awards [NITMA]. The prestigious event served as a platform to recognize, celebrate, and reward the exceptional excellence and contributions of individuals, state governments, and institutions in
propelling IT development in Nigeria and the Diaspora.
Dr. Muhammed Sirajo Aliyu, FNCS, President of the Nigeria Computer Society, delivered the welcome address, stating,
”The Nigeria Computer Society remains the umbrella body for all Information Technology Practitioners. We have shifted our efforts towards bringing other related IT associations or groups under the umbrella of NCS. Our goal is to ensure that NCS remains the foremost and number one IT professional association in Nigeria and the largest IT society in Africa. NCS has been the voice of Information Technology professionals for the past four decades, expanding and growing in might and relevance. The current National Executive Council is determined to
be strategic, innovative, and forward-looking in running the affairs of our great society”
”In 2020, we introduced another prestigious award, the Digital Governor Award, to recognize outstanding Governors making significant investments in IT”
The past president of the Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN), Mr. Ibrahim Tizhe, gave the opening remarks, commending the organizers and congratulating inaugural members. He outlined the purpose of the gathering, emphasizing the recognition of faithful and deserving members through various awards, including the
Digital Governor Award, IT Personality, IT Company of the Year, and the newly introduced Tech Innovation Award.
Mr. Kole Jagun, the President/Chairman of the Council of CPN, stressed the importance of the National Information Technology Awards in encouraging and supporting individuals to achieve more in the high-tech sector. He highlighted the role of mentors in fostering growth in the tech industry and commended the NCS for its advocacy efforts. Mr. Jagun pledged CPN’s support to NCS in achieving sustainable development in Nigeria.
The highlight of the event was the award session where The ceremony featured various award categories, including Digital Governor won by His Excellency Sen. Uba Sani Executive Governor of Kaduna State, IT Personality won by Mr Gafar [MD/CEO, Xpress Payment Solution Limited], IT Company of the Year won by INLACKS Nigeria Limited,
and the newly introduced Tech Innovation Award won by First Bank of Nigeria] and others. Mr. Jagun extended congratulations to all awardees, recognizing their outstanding achievements and contributions to technology.
Among the notable attendees are the Governor of Edo State represented by his Head of Service Anthony Osas Okungbowa, the Senior Special Assistant to the Kaduna State Governor on ICT Engr Shuaibu Bello , the Managing Director of Information Communication Agency, Edo State Government Mr. Goodluck Igbinedion, Mr. Richard Amafonye IT resource Access Bank, Mr. Oludare Ogunlade of Oracle Corporation, the First Lady of Bauchi State Government, Hajiya (Dr.) Aishatu Bala Muhammad, accompanied by other dignitaries.
The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) is the umbrella body of all Information Technology Professionals, Interest Groups, and Stakeholders in Nigeria, a position as the sole representative of members of the Society in all negotiations and consultations with the Federal, State, and Local governments and their agencies on matters of policy affecting the conduct and practice of computing and information technology & systems profession and industry, therefore, Collaborating with relevant governments, institutions, and organizations in proffering solutions to the
issues of the “Digital Divide’’.
