Democracy: Expert advocates supportive policies for effective advancement in technology

By Funmilola Gboteku

Mr Jide Awe, Chief Executive Officer, Jidaw Systems Ltd. says Nigeria requires supportive policies and regulatory environment to effectively adapt to rapid advancement in technology.

Awe, who is also an Information Technology Expert told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Monday that a multi faceted approach was necessary to move the country forward.

He noted that it was crucial to replace outdated and complex regulations with open, collaborative, inclusive and innovative policies.

He said the government needed to find solutions to the persistent digital divides which were fueled by various factors, including location disparities in access to ICT infrastructure and variations in digital literacy rates.

“These divides impede the full participation of all citizens in the digital economy, thus preventing Nigeria from fully unleashing its digital potential.

” To tackle these challenges, it is essential to implement deliberate, systemic and strategic measures.

” While the government aims to leverage digital technologies for economic growth, striking a balance that enhances citizens’ quality of life, job opportunities and fosters inclusive growth is still a key challenge,” Awe said.

According to him, collaboration and an innovative culture involving the government, private sector, educational institutions and civil society are  necessary to effectively tackle the challenges.

On security, he said  the digital economy faced a significant cyber security challenge, such as the increasing incidents of cybercrime, identity theft and cyber attacks, which eroded trust.

Awe noted that data breaches also posed a major concern, considering the enormous volume of data generated in today’s world.

He said that while the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau (NDPB) had made strides in data protection and privacy regulation, enacting the National Data Protection Bill was essential.

” Enacting this bill will provide legal protection for individuals and organisations, safeguarding their data and upholding privacy rights, “Awe said.

(NAN)