Nigeria’s digital sector is crucial for driving economic change, generating employment opportunities, and ensuring national safety. It was emphasized during an elite conference that young people should spearhead this movement, with participants focusing on harnessing sophisticated IT solutions to propel the country forward.
Mr. Emmanuel John Kadiya, who represents Hon. Gaza Jonathan Gbefwi—the Chairperson of the House Committee on Solid Minerals—highlighted the critical importance of encouraging young people in Karu, Keffi, and Kokona Federal Constituency to adopt digital innovations as a means towards contributing to the nation’s progress.
Over the weekend, serving as the Chairperson for the event at the Association of Applied Information Management Professionals (AAIMP) Seminar with the theme “Empowering Nigeria’s Digital Economy: Via Advanced Information Management Strategies,” Representative Gbefwi characterized digital transformation as “the link connecting current difficulties to future abundance.”
As he stated, “To succeed in the worldwide digital marketplace, Nigeria needs its youth to take the initiative by excelling in data handling and using technological tools to generate chances both domestically and abroad.”
He passionately addressed young Nigerians with these words: “You have the power to rescue Nigeria. Technology is currently sealing financial gaps and reshaping our infrastructure. Our focus should shift from merely producing goods for Nigeria to developing worldwide solutions. Using just a smartphone, one can set up a venture valued at N250 million.”
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During his keynote speech, Dr. Peter Olumuji, who serves as the Secretary of the Command and Control Centre within the FCT Administration, highlighted the worldwide transition from conventional economic models towards digital frameworks.
“The future of any nation’s economy is digital,” he said. “Nigeria has already keyed in with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy under the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy. Our youth are naturally positioned to drive this transformation.”
He emphasized that throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, digital platforms played a crucial role in keeping global activities going. “This highlighted the potential of the digital economy. To fully harness this in Nigeria, we need to enhance broadband infrastructure in both cities and countryside regions.”
Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor of Bingham University, Professor Haruna Ayuba, characterized the seminar as opportune and revolutionary, highlighting the critical part played by education in fostering digital advancement. “In order to capitalize on digital prospects, we should revamp our approaches to include new technologies such as cloud computing, blockchain, and big data analysis,” he stated.
Ayuba highlighted that Bingham University is dedicated to fostering national digital progress via research, cooperation, and innovation. “Our cross-disciplinary programs are advancing the boundaries of data science and information systems,” he stated. “We are thrilled to organize this seminar and join forces with AIMP in molding Nigeria’s digital economy.”
He called on participants to form productive partnerships with professional associations, tech companies, and global organizations to build a resilient digital ecosystem. “We must ensure our curricula and innovations remain globally competitive,” he added.
Dr. Adabu Suleiman Usman, who serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Computing at Bingham University, emphasized the significance of data standardization and cyber protection in fostering national progress.
“We can’t keep going with data silos. The NIMC, CAC, and other entities have to come together. We require an infrastructure robust enough to handle 250 million Nigerians, beginning with a national optical fiber network. The safety and autonomy of our nation hinge on the location of our data storage and who gets to access it,” he cautioned.
He encouraged young Nigerians to utilize predictive analytics and real-time decision-making tools for innovation. “Data holds great power, and the younger generation needs to master it to thrive in the international digital landscape.”
In his goodwill address, Retired Major General Chris Olukolade, who serves as the Chairperson of the Centre for Crisis Communication, supported Omoluji’s worries by emphasizing the critical role of timely, organized data in safeguarding national security and responding to emergencies. “Trustworthy and synchronized information isn’t merely beneficial; it can be crucial for survival,” stated Olukolade. “Our pursuit of a robust digital economy hinges significantly on our capability to adeptly handle and utilize advancing informational frameworks.”
He praised AIMP for fostering cross-disciplinary discussions and confirmed his Center’s backing for initiatives that enhance smart information management across the country.
Upon welcoming the participants, AIMP President, Dr. Omotola Deji Afuye, highlighted the organization’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-based future for Nigeria. “In today’s world, the digital economy relies heavily on organized data, up-to-date information, and advanced systems that boost efficiency and inform decisions,” noted Afuye.
He motivated members to play an active role in influencing the nation’s dialogue and revealed plans for the organization’s 5th National Conference set to take place in July 2025 in Lagos. “Our mission goes beyond establishing an association; we aim to create a lasting legacy of outstanding performance in information management,” he asserted.
The conclusion of the event saw the welcome of new AIMP members tasked with maintaining high ethical standards, promoting innovation, and enhancing Nigeria’s position within the international digital landscape.
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