Nigeria's Digital Future Hangs in the Balance: Prof. Ademola Raises Alarm
By Oluwatobi Adeleke David
The first Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola has issued a wake-up call to Nigerian policymakers and tech leaders, urging them to reassess the nation's technological landscape and take proactive steps to shape its digital future.
In a keynote address he delivered at the 3rd Triangle Magazine International's Africa’s Best and Brightest event, he emphasized the need for Nigeria to transition from being a technology consumer to becoming a creator and exporter of digital solutions.
According to Professor Ademola, Nigeria's over-reliance on foreign technology has made it vulnerable to various challenges, including a widening digital skills gap, significant cybersecurity concerns, and a lack of national coding village to nurture tech talent. He warned that these challenges threaten the country's economic competitiveness and digital future.
However, Professor Ademola also highlighted the potential benefits of digital transformation, including the creation of 20,000 technology jobs each year for every state government, democratization of access to digital skills, and reduction of systemic corruption through new digital governance frameworks.
The expert called on the Nigerian government to invest significantly in technological education, enhance cybersecurity measures, and establish strategic global technology partnerships to position Nigeria competitively on the global stage.
Professor Ademola's call to action was met with applause and recognition, as he was awarded a lifetime achievement award for his commitment to advancing technology in Nigeria and his impact on Africa's digital future.
The award was presented by the mother of Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigeria's Minister of Interior, underscoring the importance of visionary leadership in navigating the complexities of the digital age.
As Nigeria navigates its digital future, Professor Ademola's words serve as a timely reminder of the need for proactive steps to harness the potential of technology and drive economic growth, transparency, and accountability.
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