Nigerian Researchers Excel at ICEGOV 2024 with Digital Innovations

Five Nigerian researchers made a notable impact at the 17th International Conference on the Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance (ICEGOV 2024) in Pretoria, South Africa.

The conference organised by the United Nations University and UNESCO, attracted over 336 participants from 49 countries, highlighting the global significance of digital governance.

Representing the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, was Mr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). He emphasized that the researchers’ contributions align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to leverage technology for economic diversification and improved governance.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. @bosuntijani, represented by @KashifuInuwa, delivered a keynote on the importance of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in building trust between governments and citizens, emphasising how digital transformation… pic.twitter.com/DbJ2dl1DxR

— NITDA Nigeria (@NITDANigeria) October 4, 2024

Kashifu pointed out that out of 157 submitted papers, only 85 were accepted, showcasing the competitive nature of the event. He noted that the insights from these research efforts could drive technological innovations crucial for economic growth and governance enhancement, advancing President Tinubu’s vision.

The Director-General reiterated NITDA’s commitment to supporting research initiatives, ensuring Nigeria remains a leader in digital governance advancements.

The showcased research spanned diverse areas of digital transformation, collectively aimed at enhancing e-governance and stimulating economic development through technological innovation.

Also Read: ICEGOV2024: FG Calls for submission of Research papers 

The Five Researchers are:

Hassana Asuku presented “Bridging the Broadband Gap,” a strategy to address the digital divide in rural areas by enhancing broadband access, promoting economic inclusion, and encouraging civic engagement.

Adeyinka Patrick Adewumi discussed “Digital Competency in the Public Sector,” highlighting low digital skills among civil servants and proposing a model for targeted training and infrastructure upgrades to boost digital transformation.

Dr. Agbali Mohammed introduced “Scalable Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI),” tackling barriers to deploying effective DPI in Nigeria and advocating for stronger public-private partnerships and improved regulatory frameworks.

Dr. Tanimu Mukhtar Garba showcased the “Taxpoynt” platform for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), simplifying tax compliance processes, which is crucial for Nigeria’s economic growth given the sector’s significant role.

Dr. Salihu Dasuki Ibrahim presented research on “Citizens’ Freedoms in E-Governance,” exploring how DPI can safeguard citizen liberties while addressing challenges like inadequate ICT infrastructure and data privacy issues.

Their contributions not only position Nigeria as a leading voice in the global digital governance dialogue but also reflect the nation’s commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable economic growth and improved governance.