The Kwara State Government and key stakeholders have commended the federal government (FG) for the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill, describing it as a game-changer for governance and citizen engagement in Nigeria.
At the stakeholders’ engagement session held in Ilorin, the state capital, the Commissioner for Communications, Bola Olukoju, expressed optimism about the bill’s potential to revolutionise government operations.
He highlighted Kwara’s commitment to a technologically driven future, pointing to the soon-to-be-completed Ilorin Innovation Hub as a key element of the state’s digital transformation.
“Nigeria is moving into a real digital economy, and Kwara State is proud to support initiatives that promote this transition. The Ilorin Innovation Hub, set to launch before the year ends, will redefine the state’s tech ecosystem, fostering growth for numerous startups,” Olukoju stated.
Olukoju emphasised the Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq administration’s focus on leveraging digital technology to save resources and empower the state’s youth.
He noted that the state’s vibrant youth population stands ready to benefit from the bill’s provisions.
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“From the presentations, it is clear the bill will support entrepreneurs, especially young innovators. We are hopeful it will successfully pass through the National Assembly,” he added.
Banke Ajaguna, Special Assistant to the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, explained that the engagement session was designed to gather input from senior government officials, lawmakers, tech players, and civil society organizations.
“This initiative is about shaping a policy that is inclusive and truly representative of the people. The bill must address the right issues and provide solutions that work for those in the digital economy sector,” Ajaguna said.
Ajaguna stressed the importance of collective input to create an economy that thrives through inclusive digital governance and citizen engagement.
The session attracted prominent figures, including the Managing Director of the Ilorin Innovation Hub, Temi Kolawole, and his board members.
Providing an overview of the bill, legal consultant AbdulRasheed Badmus outlined its objectives, which include fostering economic transformation, modernizing public services, and ensuring digital access for all.
He urged stakeholders to collaborate to achieve the shared vision of positioning Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital economy.
Mustapha AbdulRazaq, a product engineer and creative lead at ProPlay Digital, praised the bill for its emphasis on digital privacy and data protection.
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“This proposed law is vital for Nigeria. It aligns with global practices, ensuring digital inclusivity and allowing seamless online transactions. Nigerians can now buy goods from the comfort of their homes,” he noted.
The National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill is set to create a secure, inclusive, and transparent digital environment, with hopes high for its swift passage into law.
