Delegates from state governments and top information technology companies assembled together on Friday , September 2024 to propose that technology in governance is key to development at the 6th edition of the eGovernment summit in Lagos.
In his opening remark, the convener and executive chairman, Digiserve Network services Limited. Engr Lanre Ajayi encouraged government at all levels to render their services using technology for effective E governance.
He stressed that in response to the feedback from previous editions of the summit they got that government only talk without action and as such they have created an e government platform called OneGov.ng.
He reiterated that with OneGov.ng, department and government agencies at all levels can now provide basic services to citizens online such as making payments for free.
The host governor Babajide Sanwo Olu, ably represented by Engr Ibilola Kasumu talked about the fact that this year’s summit aims to serve as a crucial platform to discuss and drive forwad the transformation of governance in Nigeria. “it is a testament of a forward thinking approach that we as a nation are taking towards building a more transparent. efficient and dynamic government” Ibilola said, emphasizing further that the theme of this year’s summit “ Transforming Governance with technology for improved economy” aims to affirm their commitment to enhancing technology potentials to drive inclusive growth, enhance service delivery and foster transparency. It cannot be more friendly or pertinent since our economy has faced challenges over the years.”
The day long summit featured 6 very insightful panel sessions that were chaired by distinguished and notable individuals including Mr. Biodun Omoniyi – GMD/ CEO, VDT Communications limited, Mr. Segun Okuneye – Divisional CEO.IPNX Business
Dr. Tola Yusuf – co-founder infrared Africa.
The keynote speaker. Engr Abisoye Coker Odusote – DG/ CEO National identity management commission (NIMC) who was represented by Mr. Elias Okafor. Director IEU, asserted in his paper on “ TRANSFORMING GOVERNANCE WITH TECHNOLOGY FOR IMPROVED ECONOMY” that that government must leverage technology to create systems that are efficient, inclusive transpent and also trusting because governance is based on what people see on ground.
He stressed that the mission of NIMC is clearly defined to provide a robust and inclusive digital identity infrastructure that supports modernization of governance. Highlighting some efforts made towards enhancing improved governance, the lead speaker cited the national identity number (NIN) introduced by NIMC which is one of the most impactful initiative.
He added that by ensuring every Nigerian is uniquely identified, they are laying a foundation for transparent governance and efficient service delivery to individuals in public and private sector.
While some panelists from technology companies like signal Alliance advised that we need to monetize what we have on ground by creating the drive needed to push products, Mr. Elias Okafor ended by saying that identity management is fundamental for unlocking potentials of digital services, ensuring security, trust and inclusivity in the eco system.
Story By Evelyn Akpa
Evelyn Akpa is a talented voice over artist,model, actress, print and broadcast journalist with over 15 years experience spanning print, online and television.