To tackle Security issues and improve service provision, the federal government of Nigeria has revealed its backing for the implementation of smart solutions in local government areas. This program is also anticipated to strengthen food security, which aligns with the government’s overarching goal of fostering digital advancements at the community level. Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, unveiled the news at the November edition of the Devs in Government forum in Abuja. This gathering, under the theme “Innovating Digital Solutions for Improved Local Government Service Delivery”, united government technologists to discuss ways Technology can enhance public service effectiveness.
This Devs in Government initiative has evolved into a platform for sharing insights and effective strategies, promoting a spirit of technological advancement among Public Sector organisations. In this edition, a co-create challenge was presented, enabling attendees to craft intelligent solutions suited to local government requirements. Emphasising the dedication of the administration, Dr. Tijani revealed that local councils will receive seed funding, with amounts ranging from ₦1 million to ₦3 million to initiate the creation of these solutions.
The ongoing local government connectivity project will be enhanced.
Dr. Tijani stated firmly that this initial funding marks the start of something bigger. Their aim is for councils to leverage this assistance to bring about significant and meaningful transformations in their communities. The ministry is dedicated to supporting those who show true commitment, not only in developing these solutions but also in making sure they are implemented successfully. A prominent attendee at the gathering was Prof. Ibrahim Adeyanju, the Managing Director of Galaxy Backbone, who Olusegun Olulade, the Executive Director of Customer Centricity and Marketing, represented.
Adeyanju emphasised Galaxy Backbone’s mission to close the digital gap in Nigeria, focusing on ensuring that technology reaches rural and neglected regions. This program complements the ongoing 774 Local Government Connectivity Project, which is a nationwide initiative aimed at delivering Broadband service to both rural and urban regions in Nigeria. Up to this point, the initiative has successfully linked six key locations within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and in Zamfara and Kwara States. The framework they establish today will serve as a basis for upcoming digital offerings, potentially revolutionising local communities with advanced security measures and improved access to public services.
Partnerships with local authorities will promote digital programs.
In alignment with this vision, Abiodun Attah, Executive Director of Technical Services, represented Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director of NigComSat. She emphasised NigComSat’s dedication to enhancing Internet Access in Nigeria’s isolated and underprivileged areas. She pointed out the firm’s partnerships with local authorities, extending beyond the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) initiative, to promote the enduring viability of digital programs. They are currently focused on exploring various methods to support the 774 local governments in boosting their income through the digital services we’re rolling out.
Also, this collaborative effort is designed to offer connectivity while also enabling local councils to achieve financial independence through digital Revenue opportunities. An important highlight of the event was the acknowledgement of creative approaches aimed at addressing community safety issues. Justice Nze, the Chairman of Ikeduru Local Government Area in Imo State, whose team secured victory in the co-create challenge, conveyed his appreciation for the government’s initial funding. The initiative his group is undertaking focuses on tackling security challenges using technological solutions, beginning within the local community.
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Nze expressed his appreciation for the minister’s backing. Due to the ₦2 million initial funding, they are dedicated to addressing security issues in Ikeduru. They aim to extend these efforts to other communities and regions that experience comparable security risks. Innocent Korie, representing Group Four at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), emphasised how crucial technology is in enhancing community safety initiatives. His team created a co-location application to facilitate communication among vigilante groups in Ikeduru. This tool will foster improved collaboration between local security forces, using technology to strengthen interactions and enhance public safety.