Dr Chimezie Amadi

Master Successful Lead Optimization with Facebook Ads: Tips for Digital Entrepreneurs

Leave a Comment / Dr Chimezie Amadi, Human Development, Social media / IMDEEG

One of the largest platforms—with over 2.98 billion active users—Facebook ads are becoming a staple in digital marketing because of their power. Many brands have turned to using Facebook ads to reach a vast audience. However, while many digital entrepreneurs focus on optimizing these ads for leads, not all are successful in this field, and that is because they lack awareness of the common pitfalls that can hinder success when optimizing Facebook ads. This article aims to address the downfalls of optimizing Facebook ads for leads, with insights tailored for B2B and C2C contexts. Facebook Lead Ads are created to make lead generation easier. By understanding the downfalls, digital entrepreneurs can refine their strategies and achieve better results. Understanding Facebook Ads and Lead Optimization For over a decade, Facebook Ads have been an avenue through which businesses can reach the needed population and accomplish more marketing objectives. The social site’s large population base and even more concrete targeting features provide the perfect ground for reaching out to populations of specific demographics and interests. Facebook Ads refer to paid marketing on the Facebook social platform, where businesses post their commercials to be marketed. The platform’s functions assist in conveying any message concerning a brand or business to desired audiences based on demographic factors, interests, behaviours, or any other known factors. Facebook ads can be effectively used to drive traffic, generate leads, and boost sales—from e-commerce to digital products to services. On the other hand, lead optimization is the process of maximizing the number and quality of leads generated by marketing efforts. It refers to the techniques employed to attract potential customers through Facebook advertisements, effectively capture their information, and finally nurture them into paying customers. B2B and B2C Lead Generation on Facebook The technique of producing leads from Facebook is entirely different for B2B and B2C. Quite often, the goal and strategy of marketing in B2B environments mainly concentrate on decision-making personas of specific fields, and the main target is to gain trust. That is why lead generation is often done by sharing materials, such as white papers or webinars, for contact details. It also often involves capturing email addresses for future marketing campaigns or encouraging direct purchases.On the other hand, B2C businesses tend to focus on broader audience segments and emphasize product or service benefits. The Lead Generation Funnel and Facebook Ads A lead generation funnel showcases one’s customer journey all the way from being unaware to ultimately becoming a paying customer. Thus, at the top of the funnel, Facebook ads are precious for setting up awareness and collecting potential leads. Businesses can develop very effective advertisement strategies whereby they set criteria to favour and display advertisements only to those people or groups that are likely to have an interest in those advertisements. As the situation stands, once a user has clicked on the ad and gets to the landing page, the user will input his contact details to get a useful offer. This marks the transition from the top of the funnel to the middle stage, where nurturing those leads through email marketing or other channels becomes a must. The way of lead generation on Facebook differs considerably between B2B and B2C businesses. Usually, B2B businesses go after the decision-makers within particular industries or job titles and place their attention on relationship building and credibility. For digital entrepreneurs, this process often seems like a direct path to growing their business. However, it comes with its own set of challenges. Common Downfalls of Facebook Ad Lead Optimization The way of lead generation on Facebook differs considerably between B2B and B2C businesses. Normally, B2B businesses go after the decision-makers within particular industries or job titles and focus on relationship building and credibility. Normally, lead generation involves dispensing helpful content, like whitepapers or webinars, in exchange for contact information. It typically also comprises capturing email addresses for further email marketing campaigns or provoking a direct purchase. In contrast, B2C businesses tend to focus on wider audience segments and concentrate on the benefits that will be derived from such a product or service. How Facebook Ads Optimization Functions You need a thorough understanding of the mechanics of Facebook ad optimization for you to foresee potential pitfalls. When setting up an ad campaign, you initially define a “pool” audience. Facebook’s algorithm then targets individuals within this audience who are most likely to perform the desired action, while avoiding those who are less likely to engage. The key here is the “desired action.” Different people within your audience are more likely to engage in different ways—some might click on links, others might watch videos, and some might complete a purchase. These variations are critical to effective optimization. At the bottom of your ad set configuration, you specify the action you want Facebook to optimize for. Facebook Ad Optimization Process Facebook’s system is designed to optimize ad delivery based on the event you select. According to Facebook: Choose the event you want to optimize for in your ad set. Your selection affects who sees your ads to get you the desired outcome. For example, if you choose to optimize for link clicks, we’ll show your ad to the people most likely to click your link. Facebook This means the audience targeted by your ads will vary depending on the optimization event you choose. Ideally, if optimized correctly, this should result in more desired actions and reduced wasted spending. Facebook’s Focus on Quantity Over Quanlity One major drawback of Facebook’s automated systems is their tendency to prioritize quantity over quality. Facebook aims to achieve the highest number of desired actions for the lowest cost without necessarily ensuring the quality of those actions. For instance, some users frequently click on ads, while others might engage by commenting or liking. These interactions can vary greatly in value. If you observe your ad engagement closely, you might notice negative reactions, complaints about ad frequency, or spammy comments. All of these are considered “engagement” by Facebook. If you optimize for

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Paper presentation by Dr Chimezie Amadi on Fair and Responsible Use of A.I For Consumers

Leave a Comment / Dr Chimezie Amadi / IMDEEG

PROTOCOL I thank the Director, Consumer Protection Council, of Imo state, Honorable Mrs. Obioma Okafor, for considering me worthy as the Guest Speaker for this year’s edition of the World Consumers Rights Day Celebration with the theme: Fair and Responsible Artificial Intelligence for Consumers. This theme is, indeed, topical and relevant within the context of our current socio-economy reality, where AI is already walking its way into the fabric of our daily lives. Wielding its transformative influence across diverse domains, including healthcare, finance, education, and entertainment. Its evolution from mere concept to practical application has heralded a new era of innovation and opportunity, promising unparalleled efficiencies and advancements. Artificial Intelligence (AI), defined as the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, AI encompasses a broad spectrum of capabilities, from problem-solving and learning to perception and decision-making. Its genesis can be traced back to the mid-20th century when pioneers like Alan Turing laid the theoretical groundwork, envisioning machines capable of intelligent behavior. We are already seeing the next generation of AI as more and more objects we interface with become imbued with some form of AI-related functionality. Eg Alexa, Siri, Cortana, and Google Assistant are AI-powered digital assistants mainstreaming voice as the next interface over touch. Instead of typing a search query using your favorite connected device screen or keyboard, you can simply speak it. According to recent reports by PwC and Accenture, AI will usher in a new era of technological and economic transformation over the next 2 decades. The global AI technologies market is vast and promising amounting to around 200 billion U.S. dollars in 2023 and is expected to grow well beyond that to over 1.8 trillion U.S. dollars by 2030. Everything from supply chain, marketing, product marketing, research, analysis, and more are fields that in some aspect adopt artificial intelligence within their business structure. Chatbots, image-generating AI, and mobile applications are all among the major trends improving AI in the coming years. Where is Nigeria in the Global AI discussion? Are they on the dining table or on the Menu? To avoid FOMO (Fear of missing out), Nigeria has formulated a strategic policy to harness the potential of AI inclusively and responsibly. According to the Nigeria Strategic Plan titled “Accelerating our Collective Prosperity through Technical Efficiency,” the goal of the AI Strategy is to elevate Nigeria as a top 10 location for AI model training and talents globally besides positioning Nigeria as a global leader in accelerating inclusivity in AI dataset. Going by this Strategic Plan, Nigeria wants to achieve the top 50 global rankings (currently 96) in AI readiness and adoption across metrics (Computing Power, Skills, Data Availability, Ethics, and Governance) by 2030. In addition, create over 50,000 jobs in Nigeria’s AI industry by 2030. However, as AI continues its relentless march forward, the imperative of ensuring its fair and responsible deployment becomes increasingly paramount. This paper looks comprehensively at AI ethics, elucidating the critical roles played by Innovators, Regulators, and Users in shaping the ethical landscape of AI adoption. From the drawing board to the boardroom, from policymaking chambers to the fingertips of end-users, each stakeholder bears a distinct responsibility in fostering an ecosystem where AI thrives equitably and ethically. Today we can see AI that can mimic human speech patterns, tones, moods, personalities, and behaviors. This next generation of AI will also have the ability to mimic subtle human emotions, by communicating empathy, sympathy, humor, and care to users when they most need them Google’s Duplex project in 2016 was to develop an AI that sounds life out with the capability of analyzing a User’s mood and state of mind in real-time, remembering previous conversations in order to reference them in the future, remembering where a previous conversation stopped so it can pick it up where it left off at a later time, just like a human being can do. AI-Powered CRM (Customer relationship management) systems are used to drive customer loyalty, purchases, and recommendations among customers. This algorithm can identify opportunities for companies to optimize their signal-to-noise ratio by engaging their customers with the right offer at the right time. AI can identify which customer is losing interest in a product or service and target them with special offers or rewards before they are too far gone. AI can play what Daniel Newman and Olivier Blanchard described as the Big Butler/Big Mother role in their book called Human/Machine-The Future of our partnership with Machines by suggesting certain products and services, and providing unprompted advice when the occasion presents itself. AI-powered CRM can build or optimize non-transactional relationships with customers eg. In Aviation industry, AI may send you text with friendly packing and travel tips once an Airline knows that you are 48 hours from a trip, 24 hours away from departure, an AI may send you reminders about what documentss to bring with you and links to useful information about your departure Airport and terminal. While in transit, AI can text you your next gate number and boarding information. How could AI be used irresponsibly and unfairly in Different Sectors and the likely unintended consequences? 1. Education: Cognitive Dependence: (impedes critical thinking and cognatic skills development) In some educational settings, overreliance on AI tools can lead to students losing essential cognitive reasoning skills. If AI becomes the primary source of information and problem-solving, students may struggle to develop critical thinking abilities, hindering their overall cognitive development. 2. Finance: Algorithmic Bias: (especially in the loan approval process by excluding a certain group and reinforcing societal inequality) The financial sector has witnessed instances where AI algorithms perpetuated biases, leading to unfair outcomes. For instance, biased algorithms in loan approval processes can result in certain demographic groups facing discrimination, reinforcing societal inequalities rather than mitigating them. 3. Healthcare: Misdiagnosis and Lack of Human Oversight: (Over-reliance on AI tools may lead to wrong diagnosis and incorrect treatment Plan if not properly monitored by qualified medical professionals). Overemphasis on AI in healthcare diagnostic tools, without adequate human

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UZODINMA COMMENDS THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT FOR THE 3MTT PROJECT.

Leave a Comment / Dr Chimezie Amadi, Technology / IMDEEG

The federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy in a bid to empower Nigerian youths with digital skills has announced its ambitious plan to train youths in Imo State through the 3MTT (Three Million Technical Talent) program. 3MTT, a critical part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, is aimed at building Nigeria’s technical talent backbone and positioning Nigeria as a net talent exporter. To ensure the successful implementation of the 3MTT program, the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Communication, and Digital Economy is set to collaborate with the Imo State Ministry of Digital Economy and E-Government The Governor speaking through the State Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government, Dr. Chimezie Amadi Commended the Federal government on the laudable project. He expressed delight at the giant stride being made toward the actualization of the objectives of the nation’s digital economy plan and strategy. Amadi elucidated that the 3MTTT goals align with the Skillupimo project, the premier human capacity development initiative of H.E Dist. Senator Hope Uzodinma designed to equip 300,000 Imolites with 4IR (fourth industrial revolution) skill set, connecting 60 percent of them to job opportunities while empowering 40 percent to become tech-preneurs. With 20,000 trained and equipped and another 40,000 imolites set to undergo training, he expressed optimism that Skillupimo will stand as a feeder to 3MTT. Dr. Chimezie Amadi gave the commendation on behalf of his principal when he received in audience the Community Manager 3 Million Technical Talents, Mr. King Henry Ize at the Ministry’s headquarters at 28 Egbu Road Owerri ‘’I will do my best to ensure that Imo youths benefit from the 3MTT initiatives as it compliments the SkillupImo programme and shares mutual goals of fostering innovation, enhancing digital Skills acquisition and equipping our youths with future proof and self reliant skills” “ The 3MTT and SkillUpImo programme are strategic d guideline that are hinged on achieving a common goal of making Nigeria a global tech talent hub” he said. He said. Amadi expressed his gratitude to Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Honourable Minister for Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, for his efforts in making technical skills training a national priority. This action has validated Hope Uzodinma’s visionary leadership in spearheading the Skillupimo program, which aims to empower Nigerians with digital skills. Amadi commended the Minister for his exemplary approach in promoting collaboration among sub-national entities to achieve the goals of the 3MTT initiative. Mr. King Henry Ize, Praised H.E, Dist. Senator Hope Uzodinma for his visionary efforts in placing Imo on the digital world map while thanking the Honourable Commissioner for hosting him, expressing optimism that the collaboration will yield transformative mutual benefits in tackling unemployment and driving economic growth through digital skills development initiatives both in Imo and the Nigerian youth population at large. The 3MTT program, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Communication, and Digital Economy, aims to create two million jobs by 2025. The first phase of the program will be executed as a fellowship model in collaboration with NITDA and will train 30,000 technical skills in focus areas, including; software development, UI/UX , Data analysis& visualization, quality assurance, product management, data science, Animation, AI/Machine learning, cybersecurity, Game development, cloud computing and Dev Ops. Sandra Opara

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Ministry Of Digital Economy/ E-Government In Imo: Dr.Chimezie Amadi’s Reappointment By Governor Uzodimma Extolled

Leave a Comment / Dr Chimezie Amadi, Senator Hope Uzodinma / IMDEEG

The Executive Governor of Imo State, Sen.Hope Uzodimma, has earned widespread commendation for his astute decision to reappoint Hon.Dr.Chimezie Paulinus Amadi, as the Commissioner for Digital Economy & E-Government. Imo residents have lauded the governor’s wisdom in extending Dr.Amadi’s service until the conclusion of his second term. ThePressman Newspaper and various news outlets in Owerri closely observed Dr.Chimezie’s noteworthy accomplishments during his tenure as the Digital Commissioner. Governor Uzodimma’s creation of the Ministry and the subsequent appointment of Dr.Amadi as the Pioneer Commissioner were driven by the latter’s extensive expertise in the digital realm. Dr.Amadi’s unwavering commitment and focused leadership have brought immense benefits to the people of Imo State, particularly the youth. The “SkillUpImoProject,” under Dr.Paulinus’s guidance, stands as a digital empowerment initiative, providing valuable skills and knowledge to the state’s young population. Imo residents express their satisfaction with Dr.Amadi’s pioneering role in the Ministry, setting a high standard for the overall progress of the state. There is optimism among Imolites that Dr.Amadi, with his wisdom and understanding, will continue to deliver positive outcomes for the state. The impact of Dr.Amadi’s initiatives is evident, with numerous youth actively engaging in online opportunities and capitalizing on the digital skills acquired through SkillUpImoProject. As one set of youths benefits from the training, another batch is eagerly partaking in skill-building activities, highlighting the ongoing success and growth of the program under Dr.Amadi’s stewardship.

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Senator Hope Uzodinma and Dr Chimezie Anadi

Digital language for Imo youths – MDEEG

Leave a Comment / Dr Chimezie Amadi, Senator Hope Uzodinma, Skillup Imo / IMDEEG

When I was much younger, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the late political sage, in a moment of political flamboyance and philosophical exactitude, had said life was a “continuum.” It was the time when children still rushed to their dictionaries searching for words that could build up their vocabularies. Oh, could he be talking about life stretching into the future indeterminately and without any break or what some may call interregnum? Vocabulary! Young men of yore liked to acquire them and throw them around like bullets by way of demonstrating their bombastic grammatical acquisition. Growing up, sustainability has joined my little collection. In language, there is always something for the age. Sustainable development goals could be appropriated now by the United Nations, but my little flirtation with the word is more of project, programme or policy development, nurtured or supported to endure the vicissitudes of a fragile state. Unlike in politics where the winner takes all and everything comes to a screeching, shameful halt once he exits office. Or in moments of interregnum! Could this be the reason I was excited last week seeing some images coming out of Imo State? It was quite exciting for me to see that the SkillUpImo project has not been subjected to the opprobrium of an interregnum or endured a crushing hiatus that could have a telling effect on a well-thought-out programme with which Governor Hope Uzodinma hopes to lure some youths away from the streets and crime and imbue them with tech skills for a better future, even for a better state and country. In Imo State, interregnum has lost meaning or relevance. While yet to form a cabinet after an election victory, Governor Uzodinma, secured the partnership of global tech giant, Meta Incorporated, formerly Facebook, to train 5000 tech graduates on digital marketing on Meta social platforms of Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram, still using the enthusiastic commitment of former Commissioner of Digital Economy and E-Governance, Dr Chimezie Amadi. That is sustainability, that the importance of a cardinal programme of the State government was not allowed to flag. An official of the Nigerian tech partner of Meta, Innovation Growth (IG) Hub, Daniel Chinagozi, told reporters that the training was one of the series lined up to support the government in its audacious effort to decongest the streets of restless youths and give them a meaningful living. The governor in his first tenure promoted an ambitious Imo Digital Economy Agenda (IDEA) 2022 – 2026, with one of its primary pillars being Digital Literacy and Skills Acquisition. Under the programme, the government planned to train 100,000 youths, women and people living with disabilities in core 21st-century skills in software development, blockchain, game development and other technical vocational skills. A smart move by the governor was to enlist Dr Amadi, a hard-core technocrat at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), to champion his vision for a new Imo. It was like hitting the bullseye. Perhaps for the visible achievements of the programme and even more for the love of his people, the governor has encouraged Amadi to pursue his state’s tech vision even in an ordinary capacity. The efforts of the state in this respect are measurable. The training programme provided Amadi with an auspicious opportunity to give a situation report. Speaking on Channels Television, last week, Amadi informed viewers that through the SkillUpImo project which is about a year old, the governor has trained exactly 20,000 youths in Cohorts 1 and 2 in different genres of tech application, out of which 5,000 were picked for further training by tech partners, IG Hub, representing Meta in Nigeria. On the choice of Meta, Amadi explained that the company builds its innovation around people and some of these technologies are specially suited for the promotion of MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises), the sort of small businesses sprouting in different parts of the state, a number of them promoted by tech graduates of the ImoSkillUp project. “Meta through IG Hub is working with us to train digital marketing graduates from Cohort 1 and 2 by sharpening their knowledge and deepening their skills in using the Meta family of Apps to promote small businesses. Some of them have opted to set up their ventures instead of searching for paid employment,” he said. Some benefits are already very noticeable, according to the former Commissioner. “The good thing happening in Imo is the sporadic growth of small businesses. Some companies come to Imo State in search of tech talents to employ. Imo State is becoming a net exporter of tech talents to other parts of the country and even to the global community,” Amadi said. Until recently, Imo State resonated mostly in ugly situations, either insecurity or mugging of Labour leaders. The governor has said his tech training drive for the youths is to stir them away from being cheap recruits for troublemakers. And Amadi would tell this writer that there is nobody who is gainfully employed that will want to spill his blood on the street. Does Uzodinma’s tech plan have the fuel boosters to accelerate to 2026 and achieve its goals without political distractions? Will it achieve its training target of 100,000 and make Imo a digitally driven state – E-Government, connected ministries, connected cities, driven on e-commerce that is powered by a state-supported broadband buildout? Time, they say, will tell. From afar, one can say Governor Uzodinma has got something good going in Imo State. On tech training for Imo youths, he has scaled the rubicon while shaming a discouraging interregnum offered by the absence of a cabinet, to press the accelerator of his best offering to the Imo people.

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Skillupimo Cohort 3 pre-admission mock exam update

Leave a Comment / Dr Chimezie Amadi, Skillup Imo / IMDEEG

Dear Skillup Imo Cohort 3 Prospects, Congratulations on your successful completion of the Pre-Admission mock exam. However there were a few crucial observations we made: Due to these observations, there have been an update in the main Pre-Admission exam schedule and guidelines. Exam Schedule 1) Friday 24, November by 10am – Only those who chose any of these advanced courses: -Front End Development-Back End Development-Cybersecurity-Mobile App Development-Project Management-Into to Fintech (New)-Intro to Cloud Engineering (New)-Intro to Blockchain Technology (New)-Intro to Artificial Intelligence (New)-Intro to Internet of Things (New)-Intro to Gamification & Simulation (New)-Fibre Network Implementation and Splicing (New ) 2) Saturday 25th, November by 10am – Only those who chose any of these Intermediate courses: -UI/UX-Intro to Programming-Video/Photo editing-Graphics-Digital Marketing-Virtual Assistance-Repair of Computer Hardwares (New) 3) Friday 24, November by 10am – Only those who chose any of these beginner courses. -LAN Networking-Computer Appreciation-Phone Repair-CCTV-Car Tracking Links to exams for each day will be posted across our Facebook channels. Exam Guidelines Please visit all our channels regularly to get more information on available learning centres, courses, exam link and any other information. We wish you well and look forward to welcoming you to class. Cheers!!

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UZODINMA’S DIGITAL CORONETS

Leave a Comment / Dr Chimezie Amadi, Imo Sate, Senator Hope Uzodinma / IMDEEG

Last month, Imo took an enviable throttlehold on the nation’s digital and e-government space. It fantastically won the best state award on Information Communication Technology human capacity development instituted by the Presidency through its Bureau of Public Service Reforms. Besides, the State Commissioner in charge of the Ministry of Digital Economy and e-Government, Dr Chimezie Amadi was also honoured with Distinguished Govtech Trailblazers Award for his pioneering role in developing human capital in the digital economy The two awards, the first of their kind, having just made their debut were essentially initiated to motivate state goverments, other public institutions and public servants to advance the reform and remake of the public service for enhanced service delivery through digital transformation. The far-reaching and distinctive success recorded by SkillupImo, Governor Hope Uzodinma’s pet project attracted the awards. Apart from the two awards bagged last month in Abuja, the SkillupImo project has over the months eminently shown to be a signature award spinner. Only in July this year both Governor Uzodinma and Dr Amadi were adored in Lagos with awards on account of the huge success that has trailed the high-tech pet scheme Many believe that these awards are revolutionary in many ways. One, they have manifestly redrafted Imo into the national hall of fame as one of the key successful states in the country especially in the area of globalized digital sector. Two, the awards have in no small way put the administration of Senator Hope Uzodinma on a profoundly positive national burner thereby reinforcing the government’s success story. Three, the awards have potentially and largely brightened the Imo narratives, government reputation and public perception Dr Amadi, Imo Commissioner for Digital Economy and e-Government who is on the driver’s seat of the scheme corroborates: “These remarkable achievements are testaments to the unwavering dedication, innovations and passion that flow through the veins of our great state. Imo is shinning bright on the national stage and it’s an incredible moment of pride for all of us”. Dr. Amadi is right. These awards are vivid manifestations of the achievements of Governor Uzodinma in the state. They not only boost the government’s positive image but essentially reinforce its pride at the national front However, SkillupImo which provided the basis for the awards is one of Governor Uzodinma’s major strides to domesticate digital economy in Imo in order to develop human capital options. The framework according to the Commissioner is to create digital enterpreneurs and impresarios desired to scale down unemployment rate and improve the state economy. In concept, strategic plan, content and management shrewdness, the scheme is evidently well-resourced and results oriented. This perhaps accounts for the chain of attainments, awards and honours the scheme has inherently attracted to the state. Describing the scheme as pillar of strength, Governor Uzodinma’s vision is to use the scheme to transform the state digitally by harnessing the power of technology to drive the economy, service, progress and development In Quantifiable and concrete terms, the mission of Governor Uzodinma noted Dr Amadi is to use the scheme to “upskill, reskill and train 300,000 Imo youths to acquire the 4th Industrial Revolution expertise needed to fit into the evolving digital world”. The intrinsic goal apparently is to make Imo youths and indeed Imolites the centre-point of digitalization towards stimulating all-inclusive and proactive approach in the use of technology in the state. Experts believe that this innovative approach will not only make Imo the technology hub of the nation but provoke wealth creation desirable for Imo economic growth The Indian and Silicon Valley in Northern California, US experiences are germane here. Both are the known centres of digitalization and innovation in the world. They achieved it through well-planned high-tech and innovation roadmap as Governor Uzodinma has currently set out in the state. India, for instance commenced its digital program in 2015. Akin to Imo India focused on transforming the country into a digitally empowered society and a knowledge-based economy. Today, it’s a huge success story Silicon Valley however has a longer history than India. But then government’s vision, roadmap and positive regulations as being witnessed at present in Imo made Silicon Valley world’s largest high-tech destination. It’s reputed to have the leading start-up ecosystem in digital ventures and innovations globally and employed about a million information technology workers With proper planning, robust navigation and functional execution the Indian and Silicon Valley examples can ultimately be replicated in Imo. Interestingly, the Commissioner noted that the digital scheme would be undertaken in phases for efficiency and enhanced results. No fewer than 20,000 Imo youths according to him have so far passed through the programme designed to empower the participants and Imolites digitally for greater wealth creation and improved livelihoods

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Imo Commissioner, Chimezie Amadi, receives Leadership Excellence Award

Leave a Comment / Dr Chimezie Amadi / IMDEEG

The Imo State Commissioner for Digital Economy and e-Government, Dr Chimezie Amadi, has been honoured with the prestigious “Leadership Excellence” Award at the 2023 edition of the Arise Africa Achievers Award. The Award was bestowed on Amadi in recognition of his outstanding leadership exploits as he leads the team responsibility for transforming the State’s economy into a fully-digitised one and drives the implementation of the SkillUpImo initiative, among other spin-off projects aimed at empowering the youths in the State with digital skills and tools. While conferring the award on Amadi recently in Owerri, attended by over 250 change makers, with thousands more online, the President, Arise Africa Network of Nigeria and publisher of Arise Africa Magazine, Mr Ikechukwu Anyanwu, said the award to Amadi was well deserved. According to Anyanwu, “In the world of business, great leaders are like beacons that guide their organizations towards success and growth. They possess an uncanny ability to inspire, motivate, and bring out the best in their teams and Dr Amadi stands as one of those beacons in the Imo State cabinet driving implementation of strategic youth-centric digital empowerment project.” He said the panel of assessors for the award adjudged Amadi as the recipient of the prestigious award, based on his “exceptional and exemplary leadership quality and outstanding performance as the commissioner for Imo State Ministry of Digital Economy and e-Government.” Anyanwu said the award was to celebrate Amadi’s unwavering commitment to empowering the youths through the SkillupImo programme and other initiatives of his ministry. “Through these digital skill empowerment project, the government, through the Ministry which Amadi supervises, is unlocking the potential of individuals, supporting their innovative ideas, and equipping them with skills to harness their talents and shape their destinies.” “We, therefore, congratulate Dr. Chimezie Amadi on this well-deserved award. We are filled with optimism for the future. We stand united in supporting his vision and look forward to witnessing the continued growth and positive impact of his ministry’s programmes on the lives of countless individuals in Imo state, as we stride forward, empowering lives and shaping a better, digitally-inclusive tomorrow,” concluded Anyanwu. Responding, the Commissioner appreciated the Management and Panel of Assessors at the Arise Africa Achievers Award for the recognition, stating that “I consider this recognition as a call to do greater service, a call to do more for the State in our journey to achieving the digital transformation agenda of our Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma.” “I consider myself lucky for being given the privilege by our Digital Governor to oversee the Ministry of Digital Economy & E-Government where we continue to make our modest efforts to actualise the agenda of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, the Digital Governor of Imo State,” he said. He dedicated the award to the dynamic members of staff at the Ministry, who he said, have continued to give him the necessary support, working tool and nail, towards advancing the course of digital empowerment of the youths for the overall economic transformation in the state. It would be recalled that, among other recognitions, Imo State was in May, 2023, ranked top (#Number 1) above all other states in the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in terms of digital innovation and entrepreneurship development in the country in the 2022 State of Entrepreneurship Index Report for Nigeria Report by the FATE Institute of the popular FATE Foundation. Now in its ninth year, Arise Achievers Award is an annual accolade event established to celebrate people, places and values that contribute towards significant impact on the African continent. It’s the largest annual gathering hosted to engage with young people of Africa and addresses the most pressing developmental issues facing current generation. Signed: Sandra OparaPublic Relations OfficerMinistry of Digital Economy& E-Government, Imo State

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NCC BACKS IMO STATE GOVERNMENT’S DIGITAL ECONOMY AGENDA

Leave a Comment / Dr Chimezie Amadi, Skillup Imo / IMDEEG

MINISTRY OF DIGITAL ECONOMY AND E- GOVERNMENT. The Nigeria Office For Developing Indigenous Telecom Sector( NODITS), established by the National Policy for the promotion of Indigenous Content in the Nigerian Telecommunications Sector( NPPIC) under the purview of the Nigerian Communications Communications( NCC) has expressed its readiness to partner with the Imo State Ministry of Digital Economy and E-Government in its digital economy initiative drive. Receiving the NCC team from Abuja who paid him a courtesy visit at the Ministry’s Headquarters, the Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government, Dr.Chimezie Amadi conveyed his pleasure at their visit while stating that in order to achieve synergy as stakeholders in the digital transformation agenda of Nigeria, collaborative partnership is needed to allign their efforts both at the national and sub- national levels. In furtherance to explore opportunities of partnership with NODITS and NCC at large, Dr. Amadi outlined four key areas; Strategic alliance in teaching and learning facility support, Facilitation of exchange programmes and exposure to international conferences, Start- up funding and support for Imo startups as well as the provision of Internship opportunities for SkillUpImo graduates. Earlier in her speech, Engr. Biaduo Tanana Uchechi Ph.d, Principal Manager Nigeria Office for Developing Indigenous Telecom Sector NCC feted Dr.Amadi on his achievements despite the short period in office, and commended His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma for selecting one of the best brains in NCC to pilot the affairs of the State’s digital economy. Amadi revealed that the reason why National policies and agendas are short- lived is because State Governments often fail to key into Federal Government policies and agendas and as such do not lend credence to the efforts of the Federal government. He maintained that collaborative partnership is a sine qua non for building blocks of connectivity between States and the Federal Government. Responding, Mr.Frank Uzochukwu Oli Principal Manager Finance & Stakeholder Engagement (NODIT/NCC) stated that the Imo State Ministry of Digital Economy and E-Government had structured all their operations in line with the objectives of the Nation’s digital agenda. Voicing his satisfaction he remarked that Dr. Amadi in his presentation, covered the four key focus area of NODITS; Manufacturing, People, Services and software as well as research and development. Affirming their unflinching partnership, Mr Oli acceded to the proposed partnership opportunities elaborated upon by Imo Government. He disclosed that NODITS andNCC’s collaborative efforts will see Imo startups participating in GITEX 2023, the biggest Tech expo scheduled for October in Dubai, the Nigerian Indigenous Content scheduled for August in Lagos, Hackathon Shows etc.He reiterated the incorporation of. teaching and learning support especially in E- governance in order to encourage digital and economic diffusion in all sectors, while adding that opportunities for exchange programmes which will promote knowledge and skills transfer will be made avaliable for SkillUpImo graduates .Further, pledging guidance on ways to access funding and support for Imo startups. Acting as a recipient, the soon to be launched Tech -Talent -To- job (TT2J) initiative of His Excellency Dist.Senator Hope Uzodinma, will see the NCC, Imo Government collaboration mainstream and facilitate SkillUpImo graduates entry into high tech employment opportunities both within Nigeria and around the globe Sandra Opara.P.R.O

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Ministry for digital economy and e-governace.

Imo State to Connect Youths to Global Tech Job Opportunities

Leave a Comment / Dr Chimezie Amadi, Human Development, Opportunity / IMDEEG

MINISTRY OF DIGITAL ECONOMY AND E GOVERNMENT PRESS RELEASE The Imo State Government has said it is ready to decisively connect trainees from its youth-centric digital empowerment project, the SkillUpImo Initiative, to job opportunities in Nigeria and globally, in countries such as Canada, the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and other European countries, among others. The Imo State Commissioner for Digital Economist and E-Government, Dr. Chimezie Amadi, disclosed this recently at a training session with participants in the ongoing Cohort 2 of the State’s SkillUpImo Project in the state, where he said the next phase of its youth empowerment programme will be implemented under the ‘Tech Talent to Jobs’ (TT2J) initiative, aimed at creating local and international job opportunities for Imo youths. Amadi said that Governor Uzodimma, having continuously trained many Imo youths on various digital skills and equipping them with necessary tools required for them to become ‘complete Techprenuers’ under the SkillUpImo Project, where many are still being trained, the next level for the State government is to see how the beneficiaries can tap into local and global tech job opportunities. According to the Commissioner, under the guidance and through the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, the Ministry of Digital Economy and E-Government in Imo State created the SkillUpImo Project. He said through the Project, many youths have gone through digital training programmes where they have been equipped with digital skills and tools. “However, as the SkillUpImo Project progresses, towards achieving our target of training 300,000 Imolites in cutting-edge digital skills, connecting 60 per cent of the graduands to high-paying jobs as well as empowering 40 per cent of the graduands to be their own bosses, a new initiative tagged: ‘Tech Talent to Jobs (TT2J)” initiative is being birthed. “The TT2J will naturally mainstream the graduates of the SkillUpImo Project, where they will now be matched with top level employment opportunities both locally and internationally in countries such as Canada, United States, United Kingdom, other European countries, among others. I am happy to inform you that HIS Excellency, Distinguished Senator has directed the Ministry to workout the modalities for immediate implementation of the new programme, Amadi said. Meanwhile, having seen the great potential in the two initiatives of the Digital Governor – the SkillUpImo Project and the TT2J – , a non-governmental organisation, Youth Off The Streets Initiatives (YOTSI), has identified with Imo State on its youth development vision and expressed its readiness to partner with the State. President of YOTSI, Comrade Kennedy Nyere, who was on a fact-finding tour to the State recently, said his NGO had extensively understudied the Imo State initiatives in the area of youth empowerment and got convinced that a partnership between the Imo State and its NGO has become necessary for accelerating development in the state. “Our vision to, among others, support and empower young people to build a positive future aligns with the great work which the Imo State is doing in the area of youth empowerment initiatives and we are seeking to collaborate with the State’s Ministry of Digital Economy and E-Government through signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in this regard,” Nyere said. The NGO used the opportunity of its visit to the state to actively interact with the participants of the ongoing Cohort 2 of the State’s SkillUpImo Project during which Nyere extended financial support to some trainees and their family members with a view of motivating them and igniting their entrepreneurial drive. Signed: Sandra OparaPublic Relations OfficerMinistry of Digital Economy & E-Government,Imo State

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