Connect with us

Column

Navigating the Digital Age: Lessons for Economic Development and Sustainability in Global South Nations

Published

9 months ago

on

In the dynamic landscape of the Global South Nations, navigating the complexities of the digital age requires a strategic approach that values resilience, wisdom, collaboration, and ethical decision-making. Drawing inspiration from the timeless lesson of the man and the cow, we can glean insights into how nations can drive economic development and sustainability by prioritising long-term goals, embracing digital innovation, fostering collaboration, and making value-based decisions. This piece explores the strategic integration of these principles within Global South Nations, offering a roadmap for navigating challenges and seizing opportunities in the ever-evolving global economy.

Digital transformation can revolutionise businesses’ operations, streamline processes, and enhance productivity. By investing in digital initiatives, companies in the Global South can optimise their operations, deliver superior products and services, and gain a competitive edge in the global marketplace.
Additionally, the digital age presents numerous opportunities for expanding market reach and tapping into new customer segments. With the rise of digital marketing channels, social media platforms, and e-commerce marketplaces, businesses in the Global South can easily access a global audience. Companies can position themselves internationally and attract a diverse customer base by developing effective digital marketing strategies, creating engaging online content, and leveraging social media for customer engagement.
Moreover, the digital age allows businesses in the Global South to drive innovation and foster collaboration through digital ecosystems. Participation in innovation hubs, tech incubators, and collaborative platforms enables companies to tap into a network of like-minded entrepreneurs, startups, and industry experts. This exchange of ideas and co-creation of solutions unlocks new business opportunities and fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth.
In essence, the digital age has transformed the economic development landscape in Global South nations, offering unparalleled opportunities for businesses to innovate, compete, and thrive. By embracing digital technologies, expanding market reach, and fostering collaboration, these companies can create a competitive edge that propels them toward sustained success and prosperity in the digital era.
Furthermore, in today’s global economic climate, the strategic integration of value additions plays a crucial role in driving growth and competitiveness within the Global South. As these nations navigate the challenges and opportunities an ever-changing economic environment presents, focusing on adding value to products, services, and processes becomes instrumental in enhancing their market position and driving sustainable development.
A key aspect of integrating value additions in the Global South is emphasising quality and differentiation. By improving the quality of products and services, adding unique features, and enhancing customer experiences, businesses can distinguish themselves from competitors and attract a loyal customer base. This focus on value creation drives customer satisfaction, increases demand, raises revenues, and enhances brand reputation, positioning these businesses for success in the global marketplace.
Additionally, the strategic integration of value additions enables companies in the Global South to tap into new market opportunities and expand their reach both regionally and internationally. By leveraging value-added propositions such as customization, innovation, and sustainability, businesses can cater to diverse customer needs, penetrate new market segments, and gain a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected world. This strategic approach opens new avenues for growth and revenue generation while fostering economic diversification and resilience in global economic uncertainties.
Integrating value additions into the market landscape of Global South nations also contributes to overall economic development and sustainability. By incorporating sustainable practices, promoting ethical production methods, and prioritizing social responsibility, businesses can create long-term value for stakeholders, communities, and the environment. This commitment to sustainability helps mitigate environmental impacts and social inequalities, enhancing businesses’ reputation and long-term viability globally.
In summary, the strategic integration of value additions within the market landscape of Global South nations is vital for driving growth, competitiveness, and sustainability in the current global economic climate. By focusing on quality, differentiation, market expansion, and sustainability, businesses in these nations can unlock new opportunities, foster innovation, and position themselves for long-term success in an increasingly competitive and interconnected world.
As Global South nations navigate the complexities of economic development and sustainability, can an integrative approach—valuing essential functionalities—drive progress? Drawing parallels to the tale of a man milking a cow and the consequences of seeking revenge, we are reminded of the potential pitfalls of impulsive reactions in challenging situations. Individuals can create a more sustainable and harmonious path forward by choosing not to retaliate, embracing forgiveness, and prioritising what truly matters. Digital transformation can revolutionise businesses’ operations, streamline processes, and enhance productivity. By investing in digital initiatives, companies in the Global South can optimize their operations, deliver superior products and services, and gain a competitive edge in the global marketplace.
Additionally, the digital age presents numerous opportunities for expanding market reach and tapping into new customer segments. With the rise of digital marketing channels, social media platforms, and e-commerce marketplaces, businesses in the Global South can easily access a global audience. Companies can position themselves internationally and attract a diverse customer base by developing effective digital marketing strategies, creating engaging online content, and leveraging social media for customer engagement.
Moreover, the digital age allows businesses in the Global South to drive innovation and foster collaboration through digital ecosystems. Participation in innovation hubs, tech incubators, and collaborative platforms enables companies to tap into a network of like-minded entrepreneurs, startups, and industry experts. This exchange of ideas and co-creation of solutions unlocks new business opportunities and fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth.
In the synesthetic approach to driving economic development and sustainability in Global South Nations, the interplay of strategic integral functionalities is akin to the dynamics of a man milking a cow. When the man is kicked by the cow, the impulse for revenge may arise, tempting him to retaliate. However, retaliating could lead to unforeseen consequences, such as slipping and losing the bucket of milk he had painstakingly collected.
The allegory mirrors the concept that seeking revenge in any situation often results in more harm than good. Just as retaliating against the cow would have led to the loss of the milk, retaliatory actions in economic or social contexts can jeopardize hard-earned progress and achievements. Rather than succumbing to impulses of revenge, embracing wisdom, forgiveness, and resilience is crucial for moving forward and preserving valuable resources.
Similarly, in the pursuit of economic development and sustainability, Global South Nations face challenges and obstacles that may incite reactions of retaliation. Just as the cow represents adversities or provocations in this context, there will always be forces that seek to hinder progress and induce negative responses. However, the true essence of strategic integral functionalities lies in maintaining focus on overarching goals and values, despite external disruptions.
In essence, the synesthetic approach emphasizes the futility of revenge, highlighting its role as a zero-sum game that ultimately yields no winners. Instead, by embodying wisdom, resilience, and a forward-looking mindset, individuals and nations can safeguard their hard-earned achievements and navigate challenges with grace. Trusting in the equilibrium of life and channeling efforts towards meaningful pursuits fosters a sustainable path towards economic prosperity and societal well-being in the Global South Nations.
Could you permit me to ask? Can we translate the insights gleaned from this tale into robustly crafted lessons tailored for Global South nations, aligning with the demands of the digital age?
Lesson 1: Strategic Resilience in the Digital Age
– In the fast-paced digital age, Global South Nations must cultivate strategic resilience by prioritizing long-term goals over short-term retaliations against setbacks or provocations. Just as the man in the allegory chose to walk away from the cow’s kick to protect his milk, nations should focus on preserving their valuable resources and investments in the face of challenges.
– Implement crisis management strategies that emphasize adaptability, flexibility, and forward-thinking to navigate digital disruptions effectively and maintain economic stability and sustainability.
Lesson 2: Embracing Digital Wisdom
– Global South Nations can enhance their economic development by embracing digital wisdom, which entails making informed decisions based on data, trends, and analysis rather than reactionary impulses. Just as reacting impulsively to the cow’s kick led to losses for the man, knee-jerk responses to market fluctuations or technological advancements can jeopardize progress.
– Invest in digital literacy and technological innovation to leverage the power of digital tools and platforms for economic growth, efficiency, and competitiveness in the global market landscape.
Lesson 3: Collaborative Leadership and Innovation
– Foster a culture of collaborative leadership and innovation within Global South Nations to drive sustainable economic development in the digital age. Just as the man could have benefited from seeking assistance or alternative strategies instead of retaliating against the cow, nations should prioritize cooperation, knowledge-sharing, and collective problem-solving.
– Promote cross-sector partnerships, entrepreneurship, and research and development initiatives to harness the collective intelligence and creativity of diverse stakeholders in driving economic growth and resilience in the digital era.
Lesson 4: Value-Based Decision-Making
– Encourage value-based decision-making practices that prioritise sustainability, inclusivity, and ethical considerations in the strategic planning and implementation processes of Global South Nations. Just as revenge-driven actions can lead to unforeseen consequences and losses, decisions made without ethics or long-term vision can undermine progress and harm communities.
– Embrace principles of corporate social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and social equity to build a resilient and sustainable economy that benefits all stakeholders, not just in the present but for future generations in the digital age and beyond.
In conclusion, as Global South Nations stand at the threshold of the digital age, the lessons derived from the allegory of the man and the cow serve as a beacon of guidance for driving economic development and sustainability. By cultivating strategic resilience, embracing digital wisdom, fostering collaborative leadership and innovation, and prioritising value-based decision-making, nations can chart a course towards a prosperous and equitable future. In a world where revenge leads to losses and wisdom leads to growth, let us heed the call to forge a path of progress that transcends immediate gains and paves the way for lasting success in the global marketplace. Embracing these principles, Global South Nations can navigate the challenges of the digital age with confidence and purpose, unlocking their economies’ full potential and enriching their citizens’ lives for generations to come.

♦ Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and holds a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute. 

Texas Guardian News
Latest posts by Texas Guardian News (see all)
Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Anthony Obi Ogbo

Burna Boy, the Spotlight, and the Cost of Arrogance

Published

9 hours ago

on

November 27, 2025

By

“Humility is the anchor that keeps greatness from drifting into delusion.“ —Anthony Obi Ogbo

Fame is a dangerous flame. It warms, it dazzles, and if you hold it too close, it burns straight through the layers of judgment that keep a person grounded. In its hottest glow, fame convinces artists that applause is permanent, talent is immunity, and fans are disposable. Arrogance doesn’t erupt overnight—it grows in the quiet corners of unchecked power, in entourages that never challenge, and in audiences that forgive too easily. But the world has a way of reminding every superstar of one brutal truth: no one is too famous to fall.

This season, Burna Boy is learning that lesson in real time. The Grammy-winning giant—hailed globally as the “African Giant”—is now facing one of the most dramatic reputational meltdowns of his career. Five U.S. arena dates on his NSOW Tour have reportedly been cancelled due to poor ticket sales and a fierce wave of fan backlash following his Denver debacle. What was supposed to be another triumphant American tour has spiraled into an expensive public relations disaster.

It all ignited on November 12, 2025, at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado. The show started late. Energy was high. Then Burna Boy spotted a woman in the front row who had fallen asleep. Instead of performing through it, he halted the show, called her out publicly, ordered her partner to “take her home,” and refused to continue until they left. The humiliation would have been bad enough on its own. But later reports revealed she wasn’t drunk or uninterested—she was exhausted, mourning the recent death of her daughter’s father.

The internet demanded empathy. Burna responded with contempt. A sleeping fan, he said, “pisses me the f*** off.” And then the line that detonated the backlash: “I never asked anybody to be my fan.” Those ten words may become the most expensive sentence of his career.

This wasn’t an isolated flare-up. Burna Boy has long danced on the edge of arrogance, and the public has kept receipts. In 2019, he halted a performance in Atlanta to eject a fan who wasn’t dancing—handing the man money and telling him to leave. In Lagos in 2021, a fan who attempted an innocent stage hug was shoved off by security, sparking outrage over excessive force and coldness.

The following year was worse. In 2022, his security team was accused of firing shots in a nightclub after a woman allegedly rejected him, injuring multiple patrons and triggering legal headaches that trailed him for months. Fast-forward to January 2023: at his “Love, Damini” concert in Lagos, he arrived hours late, berated the crowd, and left fans feeling disrespected and insulted.

By 2025, the pattern was undeniable. He kicked a fan offstage during a New Year’s performance. Months later, he brought a Colorado concert to a standstill until an “unengaged” couple was escorted out. The incidents piled up, painting a portrait of an artist increasingly out of touch with the people who made him a global phenomenon.

This latest incident, however, has delivered the sharpest consequence yet: the U.S. market—a notoriously unforgiving arena—has pushed back.
Cancelled shows. Sparse crowds. Boycotts. Refund demands.
For perhaps the first time, an African artist of Burna Boy’s magnitude is experiencing a full-force American-style public accountability storm.

If African entertainers are paying attention, they should treat this moment as a case study in how fame can be mismanaged.

The first lesson: Fan value is sacred. Fans are not props. They are not subjects. They are not inconveniences in an artist’s emotional universe. They are customers, supporters, ambassadors, and—most importantly—the foundation on which every stage, every award, and every paycheck rests.

The second: Empathy is not optional. A superstar who cannot pause long enough to consider that a fan might be grieving, ill, exhausted, or battling something unseen is a superstar who has forgotten the humanity at the core of all art.

The third: Professionalism is currency. Arriving late, publicly shaming fans, halting shows, and weaponizing power in moments of irritation are choices that corrode trust. And once trust is broken, even a global superstar can watch ticket sales collapse in real-time.

Burna Boy is an extraordinary artist—brilliant, groundbreaking, and influential. His musical legacy is secure. But greatness in artistry is not the same as greatness in character. Fame tests the latter far more than it rewards it. And the spotlight, no matter how bright, does not protect anyone from the consequences of their own behavior.Humility is the anchor that keeps greatness from drifting into delusion. Burna Boy’s current storm is a brutal reminder that talent without restraint can become tyranny, and fame without introspection can become a curse. Artists rise because people believe in them, invest in them, and support them. When that respect is abused, loyalty evaporates. The lesson is stark: the higher the pedestal, the harder the fall—and the fall always comes. What matters is not the applause you command, but the humanity you maintain long after the music stops.

♦Publisher of the Guardian News, Professor Anthony Obi Ogbo, Ph.D., is on the Editorial Board of the West African Pilot News. He is the author of the Influence of Leadership (2015)  and the Maxims of Political Leadership (2019). Contact: anthony@guardiannews.us

Texas Guardian News
Latest posts by Texas Guardian News (see all)
Continue Reading

Column

The Leadership Deficit: Why African Governance Lacks Philosophical Grounding

Published

4 months ago

on

July 30, 2025

By

Leadership across nations is shaped not only by policies but by the quality of the individuals at the helm. History has shown that the most transformative leaders often draw from deep wells of ethical, philosophical, and strategic thought. Yet, in many African countries—and Nigeria in particular—there appears to be a crisis in the kind of men elevated to govern. This deficit is not merely political; it is intellectual, philosophical, and deeply structural.

There is a compelling correlation between the absence of foundational wisdom and the type of leaders Nigeria consistently produces. Compared to their counterparts in other parts of the world, Nigerian leaders often appear fundamentally unprepared to govern societies in ways that foster justice, progress, or stability.

Consider the Middle East—nations like the UAE and Qatar—where governance is often rooted in Islamic principles. While these societies are not without flaws, their leaders have harnessed religious teachings as frameworks for nation-building, modern infrastructure, and citizen welfare. Ironically, many of Nigeria’s military and political leaders also profess Islam, yet the application of its ethical standards in public governance is nearly non-existent. This raises a troubling question: is the practice of religion in African politics largely symbolic, devoid of actionable moral guidance?

Take China as another case study. In the last four decades, China’s leadership has lifted over 800 million people out of poverty—an unprecedented feat in human history. While authoritarian in structure, China’s model demonstrates a deep philosophical commitment to collective progress, discipline, and strategic long-term planning. In Western democracies, especially post-World War II, leaders often emerged with strong academic backgrounds in philosophy, economics, or history—disciplines that sharpen the mind and cultivate vision.

In stark contrast, African leaders—particularly in Nigeria—are more often preoccupied with short-term political survival than long-term national transformation. Their legacy is frequently one of mismanagement, unsustainable debt, and structural decay. Nigeria, for example, has accumulated foreign loans that could take generations to repay, yet there is little visible infrastructure or social development to justify such liabilities. Inflation erodes wages, and basic public services remain in collapse. This cycle repeats because those in power often lack not just technical competence, but the moral and intellectual depth to lead a modern nation.

At the heart of the crisis is a lack of philosophical inquiry. Philosophy teaches reasoning, ethics, and the nature of justice—skills that are essential for public leadership. Nigerian leaders, by and large, are disconnected from such traditions. Many have never seriously engaged with political theory, ethical discourse, or economic philosophy. Without this grounding, leadership becomes a matter of brute power, not enlightened governance.

The crisis of leadership in Africa is not solely one of corruption or bad policy—it is one of intellectual emptiness. Until African nations, especially Nigeria, begin to value and cultivate leaders who are intellectually rigorous and philosophically grounded, the continent will remain caught in cycles of poverty and poor governance. True leadership requires more than charisma or military rank—it demands the wisdom to govern a society with justice, vision, and moral clarity. Without this, the future remains perilously fragile.

♦ Dominic Ikeogu is a social and political commentator based in Minneapolis, USA.

Texas Guardian News
Latest posts by Texas Guardian News (see all)
Continue Reading

Column

The Changes of Power, Turning of Seasons, and Flipping of Tables in the Digital Age

Published

4 months ago

on

July 26, 2025

By

In the dynamic landscape of the 21st century, the digital age stands as a powerful force of transformation—overhauling power structures, redefining the rhythms of progress, and dismantling the enduring legacies of colonialism and post-colonialism. This moment transcends technological change for Nigeria and the Global South; it represents a decisive socio-political and economic reawakening.

Power: From Centralised Control to Distributed Influence

Throughout Nigeria’s history, power has frequently been concentrated in political capitals, economic hubs, and within elite groups. This has often left many feeling marginalised. However, the rise of the digital age brings with it a hopeful shift. With tools like social media, blockchain technology, and digital currencies, individuals and communities are finding their voices and challenging traditional power structures. This new era provides an opportunity for empowerment, allowing more people to participate in shaping their own destinies and fostering a more inclusive future.

In Nigeria, there has been a remarkable shift as tech-savvy youth movements gain momentum, catalysing a new wave of digital activism that challenges traditional structures of power. These young innovators are leveraging technology to foster social change, raising awareness on critical issues ranging from governance to human rights. Furthermore, the fintech landscape has experienced significant advancements, with mobile banking and cryptocurrency adoption becoming increasingly prevalent. These innovations empower individuals, particularly in underserved communities, by providing them with greater access to financial services and opportunities for economic growth.

The influence once monopolised by a select few is gradually being redistributed as smartphones and affordable data plans become more accessible to the general populace. This technological democratisation allows the digital citizen to shift from being a passive consumer of information to an engaged participant in public discourse. They are now equipped to voice their opinions, mobilise for causes, and hold those in power accountable, effectively transforming the way societal issues are addressed in the country. Through these dynamic changes, the fabric of Nigerian society is evolving, driven by the collective efforts of its digitally empowered youth.

Seasons: The Rhythms of Change in a Connected World

The evolution of development in the Global South has historically been heavily influenced by external factors, such as donor agendas, foreign direct investments, and fluctuations in global market trends. These influences often shape the priorities and paths of growth in these regions, limiting local agency and innovation. However, a significant transformation is taking place today.

Nigeria’s tech ecosystem is uniquely evolving, particularly in areas like Yaba, which has earned the nickname “Nigeria’s Silicon Valley.” This region is becoming a dynamic hub for startups and entrepreneurial activities. In the capital city of Abuja, there is also a rising number of innovation centres and incubators that promote creativity and drive technological progress.

The shift signifies an inspiring independence from traditional external influences, as Nigerian entrepreneurs, developers, and innovators boldly take the lead in shaping their local landscapes and steering their own developmental agendas. This dynamic change is set to redefine the development narrative in the region, celebrating local talent and solutions that directly address the unique needs of the Nigerian market.

We are experiencing a positive transformation towards self-determination. Local startups are actively addressing community challenges through agricultural technology that enhances food security or educational platforms that make learning accessible to all. This transitional phase marks a move from waiting to a proactive era of building and innovation.

Tables: Disruption and Reconfiguration of Norms

The metaphorical tables that represent power dynamics, social privilege, and established policies are undergoing a significant transformation. In this digital age, the nature of discourse is anything but courteous; it is fundamentally disruptive. This shift challenges long-standing norms and traditions that have persisted for years. The rapid advancement of technology is not merely an evolution but a revolution that brings to light various inefficiencies that have long gone unacknowledged.

The text highlights a rising demand for accountability among individuals and institutions in today’s society. As traditional structures come under scrutiny, there is an increasing expectation for transparency and responsibility, reflecting the evolving dynamics of our world.

In Nigeria, digital platforms’ impact is unmistakable; they have unveiled corruption, galvanised protests, and transformed the landscape of entrepreneurship. The youth are not merely seeking seats at the table but constructing entirely new ones. Through this bold action, they are reshaping the very definitions of leadership, innovation, and progress.

Challenges and Opportunities

This transformation comes with challenges, but we are more than capable of overcoming them. We can bridge digital divides, address cybersecurity threats, and reshape regulatory frameworks to match the pace of innovation. These challenges are not obstacles; they are our call to action to co-create an inclusive, secure, and locally relevant future.

Nigeria stands at an exciting crossroads, with a tremendous opportunity to boost its investments in crucial areas like digital literacy, technological infrastructure, and policy reform. By strongly emphasising digital literacy, we can equip our citizens with the essential skills to navigate today’s dynamic digital world, leading to a more informed and empowered workforce ready to tackle future challenges.

Enhancing our technological infrastructure is of paramount importance, as it involves developing reliable internet connectivity and providing access to the latest digital tools and technologies. We can create a more robust and efficient ecosystem that supports businesses, education, and communication by prioritising these upgrades. This transformation is expected to significantly drive economic growth by attracting both local and foreign investments.

Improved technology is set to drive innovation across multiple sectors in Nigeria, allowing both entrepreneurs and established businesses to introduce fresh ideas and solutions. By harnessing this potential, Nigeria can enhance its position in the global marketplace, becoming a competitive entity ready to embrace emerging trends and opportunities in the digital age.

Moreover, countries in the Global South have a remarkable opportunity to unite through cross-border collaboration! By sharing knowledge and best practices, we can bolster our resilience against global challenges while amplifying our collective voice in international tech governance.

This collaborative spirit enables us to formulate a comprehensive strategy that effectively addresses the diverse needs of local communities. By fostering open dialogue and partnership, we can ensure that the perspectives and experiences of the Global South play a crucial role in shaping global technological standards and policies. It’s essential that these voices are heard and considered in discussions that impact the future of technology. Together, through cooperation and shared vision, we can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive technological future that benefits everyone, regardless of geographic or economic barriers.

The digital age is our current reality, giving Nigeria and the Global South an opportunity to shift from passive technology consumers to active creators of innovative solutions. This transformation is crucial for these regions to assert their place in global innovation.

Local entrepreneurs and startups must embrace digital tools to unlock their potential and create innovative solutions for their unique challenges. This proactive approach fosters economic growth and a strong culture of entrepreneurship and collaboration across education, business, and government.

Conclusion: A New Dawn

The time for the Global South to shine is now. These regions can drive social change and economic empowerment by creating local technologies that tackle local and global challenges. Nigeria and its counterparts must seize this moment to emerge as leaders in global innovation.

As the seasons change and the tables turn, we confidently embrace the transformations of power. The future is not just digital—it is unequivocally African, undeniably Southern, and ours to shape and define.

♦ Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and holds a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute. 

Texas Guardian News
Latest posts by Texas Guardian News (see all)
Continue Reading

Trending