–Research Works Promote Economic Diversification
News Highlights:
- Five Nigerian researchers made a significant impact at the 17th International Conference on the Theory and Practice of E-Government (ICEGOV2024) in Pretoria, South Africa.
- The research presented covered various aspects of digital transformation, aimed at enhancing e-governance and stimulating economic growth through technological innovation.
It was a day of pride for Nigeria as five of her researchers made a notable impact at the 17th International Conference on the Theory and Practice of E-Government (ICEGOV2024), held in Pretoria, South Africa, reports Digital TimesNG.
Organized by the United Nations University and UNESCO, the conference drew over 336 participants from 49 countries, highlighting the global significance of digital governance.
Mr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), represented the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, at the event.
Abdullahi, highlighted that the researchers’ involvement supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on using technology to drive economic diversification and improve governance.
Stressing the significance of Nigeria’s representation at the conference, Abdullahi noted that out of 157 submitted papers, only 85 were accepted, reflecting the competitive nature of the event.
He noted that the insights from the research could drive technological innovations essential for Nigeria’s economic diversification and improvements in governance, aligning with President Tinubu’s vision.
The Director-General also reaffirmed NITDA’s commitment to supporting research initiatives, ensuring Nigeria stays at the forefront of advancements in digital governance.
The research presented covers multiple facets of digital transformation, all aimed at improving e-governance and driving economic growth through technological innovation.
In her presentation titled “Bridging the Broadband Gap,” Hassana Asuku tackles the digital divide in rural areas by proposing a comprehensive strategy to improve broadband access.
Her multifaceted approach aims to boost economic inclusion and civic engagement, in line with the government’s efforts to promote digital growth.
Adeyinka Patrick Adewumi’s research on “Digital Competency in the Public Sector” addresses the challenges arising from low digital skills among civil servants, and suggests a model for focused training and infrastructure improvements to expedite digital transformation.
Dr. Agbali Mohammed’s research on Scalable Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) addresses the institutional barriers that hinder the effective deployment of DPI in Nigeria, and aims to strengthen public-private partnerships and improve regulatory frameworks.
Dr. Tanimu Mukhtar Garba’s research on Tax Compliance for SMEs presents the Taxpoynt platform, which aims to simplify tax processes for small businesses, a development essential given the vital role that SMEs play in Nigeria’s economy.
For Dr. Salihu Dasuki Ibrahim, his research on Citizens’ Freedoms in E-Governance examines how Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) can promote citizen liberties by tackling challenges like insufficient ICT infrastructure and data privacy issues.
Analysts believe the work of these researchers not only establishes Nigeria as a prominent player in the global dialogue on digital governance but also demonstrates the country’s dedication to using technology for sustainable economic growth and enhanced governance.
