By EMEKA AGINAM

Although “Big Data” is gradually becoming the world’s largest resource, a range of new technologies from mobile, big data and cloud would transform business models and the way organizations in fast emerging markets like Nigeria use this information to engage their target markets and stakeholder base, the Country General Manager, IBM, Taiwo Otiti has said.

Otiti who disclosed this to Vanguard Hi-Tech at the weekend said that organizations would operate with better insight, predictive and cognitive abilities with the growing adoption of advanced data management, analytics and cloud technologies by Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) and Chief Information Officers (CIOs) across industries and economic sectors.

He said with optimism that if deployed, the resultant operational efficiencies and cost effectiveness would also transform business bottom lines.

“Notwithstanding the challenging operating environment for businesses in Africa, Nigerians keenly adopt modern technology solutions and services,” Otiti said in response to a question about how well Nigerian banks were deploying advanced tech solutions.

Pointing to emerging trends in the nation’s financial services sector which has seen banks, insurance and stockbroking firms embrace e-channels to acquire, engage and retain customers, he said, “Also, the gradual adoption of data analytics, mobile and cloud computing capabilities by Nigerian banks and non-bank financial providers, for instance, will have a positive impact on the national economy, helping these organizations drive up customer satisfaction levels and develop superior financial services.