Anambra ICT Boss Urges Local Government Officials To Embrace Technology

The Managing Director of the Anambra State Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata (CFA), has emphasized the need for local government officials to embrace technology wholeheartedly.

As the world progresses, incorporating digital solutions is no longer an option but a necessity that can improve governance, enhance service delivery, and drive economic growth.

Agbata, who also informed them that technology has come to stay, made the call at the ongoing 2024 Local Government Service Week at the Professor Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre, Awka, the state capital. He highlighted Governor Soludo’s commitment to making Anambra’s workforce, including local government officials, tech-savvy.

“Technology has revolutionized various aspects of modern life, and local government administration is no exception. From streamlining bureaucratic processes to increasing operational efficiency, technology provides numerous benefits, such as enhanced communication, efficient service delivery, data management, and economic growth.

“Anambra State has been proactive in embracing technology, thanks to the efforts led by the ICT Agency. Recognizing that technology is revolutionizing governance practices globally, Anambra State has taken significant strides to integrate technology-driven solutions into local government administration through digitalizing services, ICT training programs, partnerships, and collaboration.”

Elaborating on his points, Agbata said on Digitalizing Services, “The state government has introduced various online platforms and portals to digitize services, making it easier for residents to access and avail government services, pay bills, and engage with local officials. These initiatives have improved efficiency and transparency while reducing bureaucratic hurdles.”

On ICT Training Programs, he stated, “The Anambra State government has launched training programs to equip local government officials with essential digital skills. These programs aim to ensure that officials can effectively utilize technology to improve their administrative processes and better serve their constituents.”

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Speaking further on Partnerships and Collaboration, Agbata said, “Anambra State has actively sought partnerships with private tech companies, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to leverage their expertise, resources, and innovation. Such collaborations enable the transfer of knowledge, facilitate technology adoption, and enhance local government capabilities.”

Agbata highlighted the unique nature of technology as an industry that does not discriminate by age or status, noting its equalizing power and the substantial investment it requires.

“Technology is one space that doesn’t respect persons nor age. It is a leveller yet expensive and requires a lot of investment. This is one industry you should embrace and encourage your children to embrace too because it is a high-skilled and high-paying space. I can tell you that the average 18-21-year-old working in a regular tech company would be earning 3-4 times what I earn as an MD, and you will still be begging him or her to stay on the job.”

The MD urged local government officials to support and adopt technological solutions and initiatives being rolled out by the state.

“I also encourage you, local government officials who are closest to the grassroots, as the state pushes out some solutions and initiatives, you should embrace them because it is for our good. No matter your field of endeavour, the one who leverages technology will be more valued than one who does not.”

The Anambra ICT MD noted that by leveraging technology effectively, local governments can enhance governance, improve service delivery, and drive economic growth, ultimately leading to a better quality of life for their constituents.

Contributing, one of the discussants, Dr. Bridget Egbosi, charged the local government officials to invest in personal development as well as digital tools such as Android phones to leverage technology and become tech-savvy while they wait for further support from the Governor. She emphasized that this is a worthy investment that will bring about value rebirth in not just their personal lives but at the local government commission where they work.

The Chairman of the Commission, Barrister Vin Ezeaka, commended the MD’s address and called for collective efforts to improve the local government system.