Five Nigerian researchers made significant contributions at the 17th International Conference on the Theory and Practice of E-Government (ICEGOV2024), held in Pretoria, South Africa.
Organized by the United Nations University and UNESCO, the conference drew over 336 participants from 49 countries, highlighting the global importance of digital governance.
Representing Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, emphasized that the researchers’ involvement aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to leverage technology for economic diversification and enhanced governance.
Abdullahi noted the significance of Nigeria’s representation at ICEGOV2024, where only 85 of the 157 submitted papers were accepted. He stressed that the insights gained from these research efforts could drive technological innovations crucial for Nigeria’s economic diversification and governance improvements, advancing President Tinubu’s vision. He also reiterated NITDA’s commitment to supporting research initiatives that position Nigeria at the forefront of global advancements in digital governance.
The five researchers showcased pioneering studies aimed at enhancing e-governance and promoting economic growth through technological innovation. Key highlights of their work include:
- Hassana Asuku presented her research, “Bridging the Broadband Gap,” which focuses on reducing the digital divide in rural areas. Asuku proposed a comprehensive strategy to improve broadband access, enhancing economic inclusion and civic engagement—critical to the government’s push for digital growth.
- Adeyinka Patrick Adewumi explored the issue of low digital competency in the public sector. His research, “Digital Competency in the Public Sector,” proposed a model for targeted digital skills training and infrastructure upgrades to accelerate digital transformation among civil servants.
- Dr. Agbali Mohammed discussed Scalable Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), identifying institutional barriers to deploying effective DPI in Nigeria. His research emphasizes the need to enhance public-private partnerships and improve regulatory frameworks.
- Dr. Tanimu Mukhtar Garba introduced the Taxpoynt platform in his research on Tax Compliance for SMEs. The platform is designed to simplify tax processes for small businesses, recognizing the significant role of SMEs in Nigeria’s economy.
- Dr. Salihu Dasuki Ibrahim focused on Citizens’ Freedoms in E-Governance. His study examined how Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) can enhance citizen liberties, addressing challenges such as inadequate ICT infrastructure and data privacy concerns.
The contributions of these researchers not only elevate Nigeria’s standing in the global digital governance landscape but also reinforce the nation’s commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable economic growth and improved governance.
