Key Discussion Topics
Data Availability
The Foundation of Growth - Exploring how accessible data drives innovation and economic development across Africa.
Data Privacy
Protecting Individuals in a Digital Age - Understanding the critical importance of safeguarding personal information.
Compliance
Navigating Diverse Regulatory Environments - Strategies for meeting varying compliance requirements across African markets.
Global Trust
Building Credibility and Attracting Investment - Creating sustainable trust frameworks for international partnerships.
Host & Moderator
Sami Tunji
Senior Business Correspondent & Finance Professional
Sami Tunji is a versatile writer, business journalist, and finance professional with a passion for data-driven research and impactful reporting.
Professional Career & Expertise:
Sami currently serves as a Senior Business Correspondent at PUNCH Newspaper, where he specializes in covering finance and ICT. He is a strategic communicator and data-driven researcher with extensive experience in macroeconomic, tech, and financial reporting, particularly in Nigeria. His former roles include working as a financial analyst at Nairametrics and contributing to publications like The Africa Report and VerivAfrica.
Recognition & Awards:
Sami's work is distinguished by its commitment to evidence-based reporting, which earned him a shortlisting for the PwC Media Excellence Awards in 2023 in two categories: Finance & Capital Markets Reporting and Business & Economy Reporting.
Fellowships & Education:
He holds an MBA in Advanced Corporate-Level Strategy from Quantic School of Business and Technology and is certified in financial analysis and modelling. He is a prolific fellow, including African Liberty Writing Fellow (2023-2024), Inequalities Reporting Fellow (2024), Free Trade Fellow (2025), and AI and Tech Accountability Reporting Fellow (2025).
Focus:
His work is ultimately guided by a focus on using research to inform decisions on finance, business strategy, and socio-economic development across Africa.
Expert Panelists
Atinuke T. Nukay
Media & Public Relations Expert
Atinuke is a dynamic and results-oriented media and Public Relations expert with over 16 years of experience in broadcast media, strategic communication, and stakeholder engagement.
Professional Expertise:
With more than 16 years in the field, Atinuke possesses proven expertise in a wide range of public relations disciplines. Her skills include handling high-stakes communication initiatives, monitoring media trends, and advising executives on reputation management and strategic public engagement.
Current Role & Data Protection Contributions:
Atinuke currently serves as the Technical Assistant on Media and Public Communications to the National Commissioner of the Nigerian Data Protection Commission, Dr. Vincent Olatunji.
Certifications & Education:
A certified Data Protection Officer from the Institute of Information Management (IMM), Atinuke has a strong foundation for her current role. She has also completed advanced training in Policy and Strategic Studies and Legislative Studies.
Vincent Junior Phiri
Industry 4.0 Expert & PhD Candidate
Phiri Vincent Junior is a final-year PhD candidate and a recognized expert in the application of Industry 4.0, with a specialized focus on the pharmaceutical sector.
Academic & Research Focus:
Currently a PhD candidate at the National High School of Mechanics and Electricity (ENSEM), Hassan II University in Casablanca, Morocco, Phiri's research focuses on implementing Industry 4.0 in the pharmaceutical sector.
Education & Certifications:
Phiri holds a Master of Engineering in Agri-food Industrial Engineering. He is also a highly certified professional, holding the prestigious title of Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt (LSSMB).
Scholarly Contributions:
His recent scholarly work has made significant contributions to the field. He has authored publications on key topics such as enterprise-wide Pharma 4.0 adoption and a comprehensive look at the Industry 4.0 Research Landscape in Africa.
Nnanna Kalu-Mba
Technology for Development Expert
Nnanna Kalu-Mba is a Technology for Development expert with over a decade of experience, specializing in the complex intersection of technology, data, and privacy.
Professional Experience:
With extensive international experience at global organizations like the United Nations and USAID, Nnanna has a proven track record of deploying technology to address some of Africa's most pressing data challenges.
Expertise & Education:
Nnanna is a highly qualified strategist, certified by Harvard and MIT. He holds an MSc in IT Management from Lancaster University and is a fellow at the Association for Artificial Intelligence Management and Financial Institute (AIMFIN).
This rare blend of on-the-ground technical expertise in Africa and a deep understanding of policy frameworks allows him to build a secure and trusted digital future for the continent.
Prof. Dr. Eng. Ihababdelbasset Annaki
AI & Virtual Reality Expert
Prof. Dr. Eng. Ihababdelbasset Annaki is a leading expert in Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality, with a strong focus on their applications in neuroscience, healthcare, and education.
Academic & Research Expertise:
Prof. Dr. Eng. Annaki is a Maître de Conférences in Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Development at the École Supérieure de l'Éducation et de la Formation, Université Mohammed Premier, Oujda. His research delves into Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, and time series analysis, particularly as applied to neuroscience and cognitive processes.
Professional Experience & Applications:
With a background in Data Science, he has extensive hands-on experience in data engineering, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. He has a proven track record in building and optimizing AI systems, translating complex technical concepts into practical, impactful outcomes, including designing AI-driven platforms for clinical decision-making and developing data-driven educational tools.
Specialties & Vision:
An INSEA alumnus, his specialties include Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Virtual & Augmented Reality, Data Engineering & Business Intelligence, and AI Solutions for Healthcare, Neuroscience, and Education. He is passionate about fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration and pushing the boundaries of AI to improve lives and enhance learning.
Watch the Webinar Recording
Webinar Recording
Recorded on August 23, 2025 | Duration: Full Session