By Emeka Aginam

In  recognition of his outstanding  contribution to Information and Communications Technology in the country,  the  Nigerian Computer Society, NCS, has awarded the Chairman of Visafone Communications Limited, Mr. Jim Ovia, with the  Honorary Fellowship of the Society.

Fellow is the highest grade of the NCS professional cadre. To attend the status of a Fellow of the Nigeria Computer, a candidate must have contributed to the advancement or application of Information Technology for significant value to the Society.

With the award, Ovia became the 10th individual to be honoured with the revered title in the over 30 years of existence of the NCS.

Speaking at the award ceremony held in Lagos last week,  the President, NCS, Sir Demola Aladekomo, said the award came the way of Ovia  for his contribution and the advancement or application of IICT for sig He said that  the award ceremony for Ovia had been necessitated following his inability to physically present, due to some exigencies, at the NCS at the 2012 National Information Technology Merit and Fellowship Awards held at Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos nificant value to the society.

Mr. Jim Ovia, he said  introduced a great deal of technology driven innovations into the Nigerian banking industry.

According to him, being  the first President of the Nigeria Internet Group (NIG), Ovia  is not only an avid IT promoter, but has also invested massively in Nigeria’s technology sector.

The NCS President noted that Ovia has led several national IT-related initiatives such as the Nigerian Software Development Initiative (NSDI), the National Information Technology Advisory Council (NITAC) and the National Broadband Committee.

While receiving the award, Ovia appreciated the NCS for the honour, promising to abide by all the rules and regulations of the NCS.

“I will continue to empower the youths in ICT. That is my passion. The youths are the leaders of tomorrow. We must continue to support them in ICT capacity building” he said.