Google Maps marks 20 years, unveils top Nigerian locations

Tech Giant, Google today marked the 20th anniversary of Google Maps, a service that has helped over 2 billion monthly users explore and navigate the world.

In a statement on Thursday, February 6, the company noted that Google Maps has become an essential tool that empowers users to confidently navigate, wherever their journey takes them.

“Over the past two decades, it’s become an essential tool for more than 2 billion monthly users, providing both comprehensive information and a vibrant community for sharing knowledge.

“Google Maps isn’t simply a map; it’s a dynamic platform shaping users’ understanding of the world. Its rich and up-to-date information empowers users to confidently navigate, wherever their journey takes them.

“Its evolution has brought a wealth of features to enhance every journey. Need a little inspiration? Ask Maps, powered by Gemini, for curated ideas on where to go. Travelling? The “Directory” tab helps you explore what’s available in airports.

“Want to get your bearings quickly? Augmented reality allows you to understand an area at a glance. Even everyday tasks, like finding the cheapest petrol station nearby, are made easier with Google Maps,” the company stated.

Read Also: Google axes pledge not to use AI for weapons

In Nigeria, Google Maps has been instrumental in helping people discover new places and navigate with confidence.

To mark this 20th anniversary, Google also unveiled the top reviewed places in Nigeria, showcasing the locations that have captured the hearts of Nigerian users.

According to Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Communications and Public Affairs Manager, Google West Africa, “Google Maps has evolved from a basic mapping tool to a dynamic platform that helps people explore, navigate, and discover new experiences. The top reviewed locations in Nigeria highlight the places that have captured the interest and attention of our users.”

These lists offer fascinating insights into popular choices for restaurants, cafes, visitor attractions, parks, and museums across the country.

Here is a list of most searched places in Nigeria: 

1. Most Reviewed  Restaurants

Mega Chicken

Farmcity Lekki lounge

Crush Cafe

Hard Rock Cafe

Domino’s Pizza, Wuse

Jevinik Restaurant

Cactus Restaurant

The Junkyard Grills

BluCabana Restaurant & Cafe

Domino’s Pizza, Yaba

2. Most Reviewed Cafe

Flowershop Cafe

Oliver’s Café

Salamander Cafe

Café de vie

Wood House Cafe

TOP BEANS. Coffee & more

Creamslices Cafe

Café Flour

Ketchup

Ark City Cafe And Grill

3. Most Reviewed Visitor Attractions

Dimplediva_scent

Oniru Private Beach

The Good Beach

New Berger Roundabout Ojodu Ikeja

Emir’s Palace Kano City

Rumuokoro Flyover

Railway Compound Ebute Meta Lagos

Abia Tower Round about Umuahia

Fela’s Shrine Ikeja

Idumagbo Junction Eyo Statue

4. Most Reviewed Park

City Park Abuja

Muri Okunola Park

Tinubu Square

Ndubuisi Kanu Park

Freedom Park Lagos

Johnson Jakande Tinubu (JJT) Park

Millennium Park

Shitta Roundabout Park

JD Leisure park

Trans-Amusement Park

5. Most Reviewed Museum

National Museum Benin City

kalakuta museum

National Museum Lagos

Open Heavens International Centre

OOPL

National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Kaduna.

AREWA House

Gidan Makama Museum

Sculpture Garden

National Museum of Unity

Google axes pledge not to use AI for weapons

Google on Wednesday said it has removed a pledge from its artificial intelligence (AI) principles that had said the company would not use the technology to develop weapons.

The technology giant had rewritten the principles that guide its development and use of AI which is published online, but a section pledging not to develop tech that cause or are likely to cause harm has now been removed.

That section said the firm would not pursue applications in the areas of weapons or “that gather or use information for surveillance violating internationally accepted norms”.

Instead, the new principles feature a section on responsible development and deployment which implement “appropriate human oversight, due diligence,feedback mechanisms to align with user goals, social responsibility, and widely accepted principles of international law and human rights.”

In a blog post, Google senior vice president James Manyika and Sir Demis Hassabis, who leads the firm’s AI lab, Google DeepMind, said the company needed to update its AI principles as they had been first published in 2018 and the technology has “evolved rapidly” since then.

“Billions of people are using AI in their everyday lives. AI has become a general-purpose technology, and a platform which countless organisations and individuals use to build applications,” they said.

“It has moved from a niche research topic in the lab to a technology that is becoming as pervasive as mobile phones and the internet itself; one with numerous beneficial uses for society and people around the world, supported by a vibrant AI ecosystem of developers.”

They said this had meant increased international collaborative efforts on common principles, which the blog post said Google was encouraged by.

Read Also: Policy blueprint for a new era of African innovation, by Doron Avni

But Manyika and Hassabis said “global competition” for AI leadership was taking place within an “increasingly complex geopolitical landscape”.

“We believe democracies should lead in AI development, guided by core values like freedom, equality, and respect for human rights,” they said.

“And we believe that companies, governments, and organisations sharing these values should work together to create AI that protects people, promotes global growth, and supports national security.”

There is an ongoing debate among AI experts, governments, regulators, tech firms and academics about how the development powerful emerging technology should be monitored or regulated.

Previous international summits have seen countries and tech firms sign non-binding agreements to develop AI “responsibly”, but no binding international law on the issue is yet in place.

In the past, Google’s contracts to provide technology, such as cloud services, to the U.S. and Israeli military have sparked internal protests from employees.

James Fisher, chief strategy officer at AI firm Qlik, said Google’s decision was concerning, and highlighted the need for countries such as the UK to push for more international governance.

“Changing or removing responsible AI policies raises concerns about how accountable organisations are for their technology, and around the ethical boundaries of AI deployment,” he told the PA news agency.

“AI governance will of course need to flex and evolve as the technology develops, but adherence to certain standards should be a non-negotiable.

“For businesses, this decision shows we are likely to face a complex AI landscape going forwards, where ethical considerations are weighed up against industry competition and geopolitics.

“For the UK, which has attempted to position itself as a leader in AI safety and regulation, this decision only makes it more important to put robust, enforceable AI governance frameworks in place.

“The UK’s ability to balance innovation with ethical safeguards could set a global precedent, but it will require collaboration between government, industry and international partners to ensure AI remains a force for good,”Fisher said.(dpa/NAN)

UK to relax visa rules to attract top AI talent

The government of the United Kingdom (UK) is evaluating changes to its visa policies to attract highly skilled Artificial Intelligence (AI) professionals from overseas.

This move by the UK aligns with its broader strategy to position the country as a global leader in AI, as outlined in the recently published AI Opportunities Action Plan.

The plan features 50 recommendations aimed at enhancing AI adoption and bolstering economic growth.

The AI Opportunities Action Plan published this week sets out 50 recommendations on how the government should harness the technology and position the UK as a world leader in AI.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer endorsed the plan, stating the government’s intent to implement the recommendations.

Read Also: UK Migration 2025: What you need to know

The 21st recommendation set out in the report suggests that the UK government should ‘explore how the existing immigration system can be used to attract graduates from universities producing some of the world’s top AI talent’.

It goes on to explain that some of the world’s leading AI institutions, such as the Indian Institutes of Technology and Carnegie Mellon University in the US are not currently included on the UK government’s Global Universities List, making their graduates ineligible for the High Potential Individual visa.

As such, the report recommends that the government should take steps to develop new immigration pathways, and strengthen existing ones, to support these promising graduates. It should also explore how best to address wider barriers like the cost and complexity of visas which create obstacles for start-ups and deter overseas talent from relocating to the UK.

In its response, the government stated that it ‘partially agrees’ with recommendation 21, and that the Industrial Strategy will set out how the UK will attract highly skilled AI workers from abroad.

It argues that the UK already offers ‘internationally competitive’ visas that can support a range of individual needs, including for talent to join UK-based organisations or to start their own business.

FULL LIST: Six Nigerian scientists, engineers on Biden’s honours list

Six Nigerian scientists and Engineers in Diaspora have been named among the 400 Presidential Early Career Award recipients for Scientists and Engineers in the United States.

The prestigious recognition which was established by former President Bill Clinton in 1996, is the highest honour bestowed by the United States government on outstanding scientists and engineers in the early stages of their careers.

This year’s awardees, announced by President Joe Biden on January 14, 2025, are employed or funded by 14 participating United States government agencies.

Read Also: Biden grants Cyprus access to 3 U.S. military programmes

Here are six Nigerian scientists, engineers on Biden’s honours list

1. Azeez Butali, Gilbert Lilly Endowed Professor of Diagnostic Sciences, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa;

2. Ijeoma Opara, Associate Professor of Public Health (Social and Behavioral Sciences), Yale School of Public Health, Yale University;

3. Oluwatomi Akindele, Postdoctoral researcher at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

4. Eno Ebong, Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, and Biology at Northeastern University;

5. Oluwasanmi Koyejo, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Stanford University;

6. Abidemi Ajiboye, Executive Vice Chair of the Case School of Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University.

Dubai Racing Club announces Zoho as Exclusive Technology Partner

Dubai Racing Club (DRC) has named Zoho Corporation, a leading global technology company, as its exclusive technology partner for the next two years.

This partnership will focus on digitising DRC’s operations, with the aim of enhancing the club’s high-profile events and ensuring a seamless, world-class experience for visitors, participants, and staff.

The announcement was made during a signing ceremony at Meydan Racecourse, attended by His Excellency Ali Al Ali, CEO and Board Member of the Dubai Racing Club, and Prem Anand Velumani, Associate Director of Strategic Alliances, MEA at Zoho.

As the organiser of major events, including the prestigious Dubai World Cup, the DRC will leverage Zoho’s comprehensive suite of digital solutions through Zoho One, the operating system for businesses, to streamline key operations. By implementing Zoho One, the club will enhance various aspects of its event management, from ticketing and sales to logistics and customer relationship management (CRM).

HE Al Ali commented on the partnership: “We are pleased to welcome Zoho as our official technology partner this season. Technology is a cornerstone of our long-term vision for the Dubai Racing Club and the continued development of the horse racing industry.

“Zoho brings a wealth of expertise, and we look forward to collaborating with their team to create tailored solutions for our clients. From sophisticated CRM systems and streamlined accreditation processes to innovative mobile applications designed to enhance the experience for horse owners and racegoers, we are focused on setting new benchmarks for excellence.

Read Also: Five must have Cybersecurity tools for 2024

“This partnership brings us one step closer to establishing Meydan as one of the most technologically advanced racecourses globally.”

The DRC will leverage Zoho’s web and mobile applications to improve accessibility and communication across platforms. Zoho CRM will play a pivotal role in managing ticketing and sales, offering a seamless and personalised experience for attendees.

Zoho’s apps will also support critical operational functions such as accreditation, simulcasting, parking and barricade management, and order management, all of which will be fully digitised to enhance accessibility and efficiency.

“We are thrilled to be the exclusive technology partner of the Dubai Racing Club, an iconic institution that plays a central role in global equestrian sports,” said Prem Anand Velumani, MEA at Zoho. “This partnership presents an exciting opportunity to demonstrate how Zoho’s comprehensive suite of solutions can support DRC’s operations and its commitment to excellence.

“By utilising Zoho’s customisable tools, DRC will be able to digitise and optimise critical operations, driving greater collaboration, agility, and a seamless guest experience. We are proud to help position the DRC at the forefront of digital transformation in the regional and global equestrian sports industry.”

Zoho’s solutions will also streamline guest and VIP stand management, ensuring a smooth experience for high-profile visitors. Zoho’s apps will assist with venue navigation, while an all-in-one analytics dashboard will provide the DRC’s internal team with real-time data to evaluate performance and track ROI across all operational areas.

This integrated approach will allow the DRC to optimise its event management processes and deliver an exceptional experience for participants, staff, and guests alike.

The two-year partnership will see the DRC fully harness Zoho’s suite of solutions to drive digital transformation across all aspects of its operations. As the club continues to grow, Zoho’s innovative digital solutions will play a pivotal role in ensuring the optimisation and success of every operational facet—from event coordination to customer engagement.

Known for hosting some of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world, the DRC attracts audiences and participants from around the world. The Dubai Racing Club’s next meeting at the Meydan Racecourse is scheduled for November 22, 2024.

Five must have Cybersecurity tools for 2024

In an increasingly digital world, both individuals and corporations continue to place a high premium on cybersecurity. Having the appropriate tools and methods in place is crucial to safeguarding sensitive data, ensuring regulatory compliance, and preserving operational continuity as cyber attacks increase in complexity and frequency. This article examines a list of crucial cybersecurity technologies that will be crucial in 2024 and encompass a variety of features, such as threat detection and incident response.

1. Endpoint Response and Detection (EDR) Instruments

Tools for endpoint detection and response are essential for defending endpoints—such as laptops, desktop computers, and mobile devices—against online attacks. In order to identify questionable activity, stop malware infections, and react quickly to security problems, they continuously monitor and examine endpoint activity. Important characteristics of this tool

Behavioral analysis: Behavioral analysis uses endpoint behavior to identify anomalous patterns and possible risks.

Threat hunting: To stop attacks, proactively looks for indications of compromise across endpoints.

Incident Response Automation: Automating reaction actions to quickly contain and mitigate threats is known as incident response automation.

Some well-known EDR tools are SentinelOne, Carbon Black from VMware, and CrowdStrike Falcon.

2. Tools for Monitoring Network Security

Tools for network security monitoring, or NSM, are crucial for identifying and reducing security risks in a network architecture. These technologies offer visibility into possible security incidents, analyze network traffic, and spot irregularities. Important characteristics of this tool:

Incident Response Automation: Network packets are captured for traffic monitoring and malicious activity detection through packet capture and analysis.

Intrusion Detection System (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Real-time detection and blocking of suspicious network traffic and attacks is accomplished by intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS).

Network Forensics: Investigates security events and does root cause analysis on network records as part of network forensics.

Leading NSM tools are Suricata, SolarWinds Security Event Manager, and Cisco Stealthwatch.

3. Tools for Vulnerability Management

Tools for vulnerability management assist businesses in locating, evaluating, ranking, and addressing vulnerabilities within their IT infrastructure. These technologies search for security flaws in systems, apps, and networks that an attacker could exploit. Important characteristics of this tool:

Automated Vulnerability Scanning: Looks for configuration errors and known vulnerabilities on networks and endpoints.

Patch management: This procedure applies security updates automatically in order to promptly address vulnerabilities.

Risk Assessment and Prioritization: Determines the level of vulnerability and ranks the order of importance for remediation actions.

Qualys Vulnerability Management, Tenable.io, and Rapid7 InsightVM are a few well-known technologies for vulnerability management.

4. Information and Event Management (SIEM) Tools for Security

Security event data from several sources across an organization’s IT infrastructure is gathered and analyzed by SIEM systems. Through event correlation and alert generation, they offer real-time monitoring, threat identification, and incident response capabilities. Important characteristics of this tool:

Log management: gathers and centralizes log information from many sources for reporting on compliance and analysis.

Threat Intelligence Integration: Improves detection capabilities by integrating with threat intelligence feeds.

Read Also: Cybersecurity: Addressing data breaches, ransomware attacks, digital vulnerabilities

Behavioral analytics: Spots anomalous patterns in behavior that point to policy infractions or security problems.

The most popular SIEM tools include of IBM QRadar, LogRhythm, and Splunk Enterprise Security.

5. Identity and Access Management (IAM) Tools

To provide safe authentication and authorization procedures, identity and access management systems maintain user identities, roles, and access rights. They respect the least privilege principles and help to lessen the likelihood of illegal access to sensitive data and systems.
Important characteristics of this tool:

Single Sign-On (SSO): Facilitates user access by enabling authentication with a single set of credentials across several applications.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Multi-factor authentication, or MFA, requires users to authenticate their identity using several different methods, adding an additional degree of security.

Privileged Access Management (PAM): Guards against insider threats and abuse by controlling and keeping an eye on privileged accounts.

Ping Identity, Okta Identity Cloud, and Microsoft Azure Active Directory are a few well-known IAM technologies.

Choosing the Appropriate Cybersecurity Tool

Think about your organization’s unique security needs, financial limitations, scalability requirements, and integration capabilities with current IT infrastructure when choosing cybersecurity technologies for 2024. To make sure each product fits into your cybersecurity plan, consider its features, deployment ease, vendor reputation, and customer support offerings.

Organizations may fortify their defenses against changing cyber threats by utilizing these vital cybersecurity solutions, such as SIEM for event correlation, NSM for network security monitoring, Vulnerability Management for risk assessment, and IAM for access control. To protect digital assets and uphold trust in an increasingly interconnected digital ecosystem, it is imperative to prioritize continuous monitoring and incident response readiness, integrate advanced tools, and use a layered approach to cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity: Addressing data breaches, ransomware attacks, digital vulnerabilities

Cybersecurity is still a major worry for everyone in today’s connected world, including corporations, governments, and individuals. The ever-changing digital threat landscape includes serious hazards such as ransomware attacks, data breaches, and weaknesses in digital infrastructure.

The present condition of cybersecurity threats, the effects of recent events, and the breakthroughs in cybersecurity policies and safeguards are all covered in this article.

Recognizing Cybersecurity Risks

Threats to cybersecurity include a broad spectrum of malevolent actions meant to breach networks and digital systems. Unauthorized access to sensitive information, such as financial records, intellectual property, or personal data, is a common threat known as a data breach. Serious repercussions from these breaches may include monetary loss, harm to one’s reputation, and legal ramifications.

In recent years, ransomware attacks have also become a significant menace. Malicious actors encrypt data in these assaults and demand ransom payments in return for the decryption keys. Large organizations, government institutions, and hospitals have all been the victim of high-profile events that demonstrate how disruptive and expensive ransomware can be.

Furthermore, software faults and flaws in network protocols are examples of vulnerabilities in digital infrastructure that give cybercriminals access points. The exploitation of these vulnerabilities may result in data theft, system compromise, and unauthorized access.

Impact of Cybersecurity Incidents

Cybersecurity incidents have an effect that goes beyond only monetary damages. If an organization doesn’t sufficiently protect sensitive information, it could be subject to regulatory penalties. Furthermore, a damaged reputation and a decline in customer trust can have long-term effects on a company’s capacity to remain in business.

National security is at risk from cybersecurity threats on a larger scale, especially when vital infrastructure like energy grids or communication networks are attacked. Global digital systems are interconnected, which increases the potential impact of cyberattacks and emphasizes the necessity of strong cybersecurity defenses.

Advancements in Cybersecurity Measures

Recent years have seen a major advancement in cybersecurity techniques and safeguards in response to changing threats.

Here are some significant developments in Cybersecurity:

Advanced Threat Detection:

Machine learning and behavioral analysis are two examples of the advanced threat detection processes that are being added to traditional antivirus software. The likelihood of successful cyberattacks is decreased by these technologies’ ability to recognize and react to suspicious activity instantly.

Data Protection and Encryption: Encryption technologies are essential for protecting data when it’s at rest or in transit. Even in the event that data is intercepted during transmission, end-to-end encryption guarantees that it cannot be read by unauthorized parties.

Security Models Based on Zero Trust:

The concepts of Zero Trust support ongoing authentication of users and devices gaining access to network resources. By reducing the possibility of insider threats and unauthorized access, this strategy improves cybersecurity posture overall.

Read Also: Top 8 smart wearable gadgets to boost your fitness journey 

Cybersecurity Awareness Training:

Reducing the risk of human error as a vulnerability requires educating staff members about cybersecurity best practices. Training initiatives spread knowledge about safe internet usage practices, password hygiene, and phishing schemes.

Cyber Insurance and Incident Response:

To lessen the effects of cyberattacks, organizations are investing more and more on incident response plans. Financial protection against damages brought on by ransomware or data breaches is offered by cyber insurance coverage.

Regulatory Compliance:

To impose data protection standards, governments and regulatory organizations have established cybersecurity frameworks and rules. Adherence to these standards not only aids in risk mitigation but also promotes cybersecurity awareness in society.

Future Challenges and Opportunities

In the future, new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) will further change the cybersecurity landscape. These technologies present previously unheard-of potential, but they also bring with them fresh cybersecurity issues that need to be taken care of beforehand.

Furthermore, because cyber dangers are worldwide in scope, governments, corporations, and cybersecurity specialists must collaborate internationally and share information. Working together can make a digital ecosystem more secure and fortify defenses against cyberattacks.

In summary

In today’s globalized world, cybersecurity risks such as ransomware attacks, data breaches, and weaknesses in digital infrastructure provide constant problems. These dangers not only cause financial losses but also pose a risk to national security and harm to one’s reputation. On the other hand, cutting edge cybersecurity techniques like encryption, enhanced threat detection, and zero trust security models present viable ways to reduce risks and improve resilience.

As organizations and governments continue to prioritize cybersecurity, ongoing investments in technology, training, and regulatory compliance will be crucial. By adopting a proactive approach to cybersecurity and leveraging innovative solutions, stakeholders can mitigate the evolving threat landscape and safeguard digital assets effectively.

How to secure cloud jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship 2024

The demand for competent experts in cloud computing has skyrocketed in recent years, and the United Kingdom is a top choice for people looking for rewarding opportunities in this competitive industry of cloud jobs.

However, for international talent looking to work in the UK, finding a position with visa sponsorship might be difficult. Have no fear! In this comprehensive book, we’ll go over the techniques and tools you’ll need to navigate the job market and secure a desirable cloud position in the UK with visa sponsorship in 2024.

Understanding the landscape of cloud jobs:

Before you begin your job hunt, it’s critical to grasp the current situation of the UK cloud computing job market. With the rapid digital transformation of industries, organizations are increasingly relying on cloud solutions to boost innovation and efficiency. This increased demand creates a multitude of job opportunities for cloud professionals, including cloud architects and engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and data analysts.

Leverage Online tools for cloud jobs:

Use online job search tools to find possible prospects. LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and Monster provide extensive lists of cloud-related opportunities in a variety of businesses. To narrow your search and find relevant opportunities, use keywords such as “cloud computing,” “AWS,” “Azure,” “Google Cloud,” and “visa sponsorship”.

Tap into Company Websites:

Directly explore the career pages of prominent tech organizations and cloud service providers in the UK. Giants such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, IBM Cloud, and Oracle Cloud frequently sponsor visas for eligible individuals. Keep an eye out for job postings that match your skill set and experience level of cloud jobs.

Read Also: Nine most used apps in Nigeria

Networking is key:

Make and build professional ties in the UK’s technology community. Attend industry events, tech meetings, and networking events to connect with other professionals and potential employers. Engage actively on networks such as LinkedIn, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions to broaden your network and remain current on industry trends.

Collaborate with Recruitment companies:

You can greatly increase the effectiveness of your job hunt by collaborating with recruitment companies that specialize in IT and tech placements. These organizations can connect you with possibilities that sponsor your visa because they have established connections with businesses looking for qualified cloud specialists.

Keep Up with Visa practices:

Become familiar with the most recent UK visa sponsorship laws and practices. Recognize the particular prerequisites and qualifying standards for several visa classifications, including the Global Talent Visa and the Tier 2 General (previously known as the Skilled Worker Visa). Keep up with any revisions or modifications to immigration regulations that can affect your chances of finding work.

Emphasize Your Certifications and Skills:

Customize your LinkedIn profile and resume to highlight your proficiency in cloud computing and associated technologies. To show off your expertise and dedication to lifelong learning, highlight pertinent qualifications like Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect, Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect, and Amazon Certified Solutions Architect.

Examine Remote Opportunities in cloud jobs:

Take advantage of the flexibility that comes with working remotely, since it can let you hunt for a job beyond regional boundaries. Cloud computing remote roles are widely available, enabling you to operate remotely from any location and still take advantage of UK visa sponsorship chances.

Consult with Immigration Experts:

Do not be afraid to consult with immigration professionals or solicitors who specialize in UK visas if you are new to the process or are having difficulties. They can offer priceless advice and assistance to guarantee a successful and easy application process.

In conclusion on cloud jobs

Taking a proactive and calculated approach is necessary to secure a cloud employment in the UK in 2024 with visa sponsorship. You can position yourself as a competitive candidate in the booming UK tech market by making use of online platforms, networking, working with recruitment agencies, remaining up to date on visa policies, emphasizing your skills, thinking about remote opportunities, and consulting with immigration experts. Your ambition of pursuing a fulfilling career in cloud computing on British soil can come true if you are persistent and determined enough.

Nine most used apps in Nigeria

As our world continues to transform into a more tech-savvy place, researchers and web developers are continuing to develop solution-based apps that tend to improve and enhance the quality of life. 

In this post, I will be talking about some of the best web and mobile apps that bring joy to the lives of people across.

Here are 10 most used apps in Nigeria:

1. Google Map:

Google Map

Google Map is one of Google’s solution-driven inventions that provide complete and detailed information about:

•             Geographical regions

•             Real-time traffic condition

•             Aerial and satellite location views.

This web and mobile app can also help you:

•             Plan your route for travelling by foot, car, bike and air.

•             Go completely hands-free while driving.

•             Share your location when in danger.

•             See how busy businesses are and their closing hours.

The majority of Bolt and Uber drivers who are not very conversant with locations within Nigeria, make use of Google map as a daily tool to navigate.

2. Zoom:

Zoom

This is a proprietary video-telephony application that connects users together all over the globe.

Although Zoom was launched in April 2011, it has become one of the most widely used app world over.

It enables users to hold meetings online without physically being together.

Zoom gained rapid prominence in the wake of COVID-19 in 2020. Offices, churches, schools, etc, prioritised the use of Zoom for meetings. Although there are other great meeting apps online, zoom is more widely used.

3. Bolt:

Bolt

Bolt is an e-hailing application that helps you order a ride from over 500 urban cities in 45 countries across Africa, Asia, Western Asia, Europe and Latin America.

Looking right back to the first day I used this amazing app, I was amazed as to how I can sit right in the comfort of my home and order a ride which in turn came right in front of my house to pick me up.

Read Also: Environmental, economic benefits of tree planting

Although Bolt offers other arrays of services, the ride-hailing app is what fascinates me the most and is most useful to me.

4. Jumia:

Jumia

Jumia is a Pan-African e-commerce application that helps you do all your shopping online while the products you purchased are delivered to your preferred location through its logistic services.

This app has been personally helpful to me, as it helps me window shop to get the actual amount of a product, before buying. This helps me prepare my budget and cut down on costs.

Asides from the market service rendered by Jumia, it has other services like payment service and logistics service.

It has become a household name with competitors such as Amazon, Konga, Jiji and others.

5. Spotify:

Spotify

Spotify is a digital platform that offers musical listening services to millions of listeners all over the world.

Asides from the musical service rendered by this amazing app, users can also watch videos and listen to podcasts on the platform.

The most amazing part of this app is the fact that you don’t need to pay a dime before listening to Non-stop music. Spotify offers a free plan that enables users to sign up without paying.

The free plan contains paid advertisements that play at intervals during playtime, you can always opt for the premium plan when you feel the adverts on the free plan are becoming unbearable.

6. OPAY

Opay

Opay is an online payment platform that has been present in Nigeria for over 5 years.

With over 35 million users in Nigeria, the mobile-based app has proven itself to be one of the best in Nigeria’s finance space. Recently when there was a cash crunch in Nigeria, Opay remained one of the few that helped Nigerians with ease in making payments. This in itself generated a lot of new customers for them.

Asides its very user-friendly interface, it remains one of the few that still gives its customers a 5 per cent interest in saving.

7. Binance:

Binance

Binance is one of the most visited cryptocurrency exchange apps in Nigeria.

It is a secure and trustworthy platform that provides a wallet for traders to store their cryptocurrencies.

A lot of Nigerians use Binance to Trade, mine cryptocurrencies, Invest and refer to earn trading fee rebates.

Over the years, Binance P2P  has helped people to easily trade their Crypto into their local currencies.

8. Canva:

Canva

Canva is an app that allows you to create designs online for free.

Many years back, some people aspiring to be graphic designers could not achieve that feat because they saw learning COREL draw as difficult.

The arrival of Canva brought about the ability to use already-made templates on the platform to create new fantastic designs.

With Canva, you can make different designs as follows:

•             Stunning Social Media posts

•             Videos,

•             Cards,

•             Flyers,

•             Photo collages, etc.

9. Trucaller:

Trucaller

Trucaller is an app that helps identify unknown callers or scammers.

This app also allows you to block anyone whom you identify as a scam.

It is one of the very few apps that tells notifies you when a call is about to come into your mobile phone, and also informs you when someone views your profile.

The premium plan helps you see anyone who spies or views your profile.

Top 8 smart wearable gadgets to boost your fitness journey 

Being active is crucial for sustaining general health and well-being in the fast-paced world of today. Smart wearable technology might be your ideal allies if you’re a fitness enthusiast, professional athlete, or just someone looking to lead a better lifestyle. In addition to tracking your exercise, these state-of-the-art gadgets offer insightful analysis and inspiration to help you meet your fitness objectives.

Let’s examine the top five intelligent wearable devices that are transforming how we maintain an active lifestyle.

Fitbit Charge 5:

Fitbit, a pioneer in the wearable technology space, keeps setting the standard with its cutting-edge capabilities and stylish aesthetics. This is also true of the Fitbit Charge 5, which comes in a chic design and has sophisticated health tracking features. This gadget gives you a thorough understanding of your daily activity levels and general health thanks to its integrated GPS, heart rate monitor, and sleep tracking features. It’s also like having a personal trainer on your wrist with features like Active Zone Minutes and tailored training suggestions.

Apple Watch Series:

One of the best wearable smart devices for Apple fans are the Apple Watch Series. These watches are an incredible useful tool thanks to their sophisticated health sensor design, easy connectivity with other Apple products, and beautiful appearance. With capabilities like heart rate monitoring, exercise tracking, ECG readings, fall detection, and more, the Apple Watch Series will keep you safe and healthy while you pursue your active interests. Additionally, you can quickly view your metrics without raising your wrist thanks to the new Always-On Retina display.

Samsung Galaxy Watches for fitness:

The Galaxy Watch continues Samsung’s tradition of leading the way in innovation. This smartwatches, which are powered by Wear OS and has Samsung’s recognizable spinning bezel, offer a special fusion of design and use. With its sophisticated fitness tracking features, like as real-time coaching and automatic workout detection, the Galaxy Watches are the ideal partner for an active lifestyle. Additionally, you may personalize your watch to fit your unique requirements and tastes by downloading a variety of apps from the Google Play Store.

Garmin Forerunner Watches:

The ultimate multisport wristwatch are the Garmin Forerunner, made for dedicated athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Tracking your runs, rides, swims, and more are made easy with these watches’ integrated GPS, inbuilt maps, and comprehensive performance analytics. The Forerunners help you prevent injuries and maximize your training by giving you comprehensive insights into your performance and recovery, whether you’re preparing for a marathon or just hitting new trails. Plus, with features like Garmin Pay and music storage, you can stay connected and entertained on the go.

Whoop Strap Version 4.0:

The Whoop Strap 4.0 is a wearable fitness tracker that specializes in improving performance and recovery, in contrast to conventional smartwatches. The Whoop Strap tracks parameters such as respiration rate, heart rate variability, and sleep quality to provide you individualised insights into how well your body is functioning. Regardless of your level of athletic ability, this gadget aids in training optimization, overtraining avoidance, and results maximization. Plus, you may wear it hassle-free all day and night thanks to its lightweight and waterproof design.

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Smart Sports Headphones

Smart sports headphones elevate the pairing of music and physical exercise to a whole new level. With the wireless connectivity, water resistance, and excellent audio quality of these headphones, customers may listen to their favorite music while exercising. We examine the advantages of smart sports headphones, point out key characteristics to consider, and present well-known companies known for their cutting-edge styles.

Smart Running Shoes

With smart running shoes, runners can now improve their performance. These shoes include excellent comfort, coaching features, and sophisticated tracking stats. We go over how smart running shoes affect running performance, point out important factors to think about, and highlight well-known companies that have transformed running with technology.

Smart Water Sports Activity Trackers

Smart activity trackers made especially for water-based activities provide thorough monitoring and analysis for those who enjoy the water. With the help of these trackers, users may monitor their progress and improve their performance in the water. They excel at swim tracking, waterproofing, and stroke analysis. We provide an overview of the world of smart activity trackers for water sports, emphasize key elements to think about, and highlight companies that serve the demands of enthusiasts in the water.

To sum up, wearable technology is transforming the way we think about wellbeing and exercise. There is a gadget out there to fit your needs and tastes, whether you want a sporty smartwatch or a covert fitness tracker. You may up your active lifestyle and reach your fitness goals more quickly and effectively than ever before by getting one of these top five smart wearable gadgets.