With Boko Haram issues stretching into the new year and a rise in crime and other insecurities now prevalent in the country, Nigeria's IT and physical security will become more connected and that convergence could lead to a safer environment as well as the use of better tech tools to ensure security.
From the use of analytics to track driver behavior, implementation of e-procurement systems, biometrics, security and threat management, security will certainly evolve and hopefully businesses as well organisations will adopt these improved measures.
This last year, social media played a key role in influencing several national issues, especially during the election period. Nigerians harnessed the potential of modern communication tools to air their opinions and mobilise protests, successfully preventing a rigged election. Twitter hashtags and social media memes became important tools for mobilisation and are likely to become even more prominent as 2016 progresses.
There will be more subscribers on key social media platforms including Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter, as well as sensational blogs such as Linda Ikeji and BellaNaija, where they can give feedback on various posts and topics. The government is already responding to this perceived threat (especially as it affects access to information, media attacks, and cybercrime) and may adopt a social media bill in 2016.
Last year witnessed the rise of new startups such as Tuteria.com, Printivo.com and Gamsole.com. Although startups in general have now become part of the Nigerian society, spreading from metropolitan hubs to suburban areas, the current state of Nigeria's economy suggests a dearth in the rise of startups in 2016.
Despite the large customer base and talents available, investors are not keen on investing due to the fall in value of the Naira and as such, startups have little or no opportunities to raise venture capital. 2016 may have this sector experience challenges in the area of accessing funds and even existing startups will find it difficult to thrive.
