FG-SOSG Engages Stakeholders on Proposed National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill in Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government (SOSG), through the Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy (MIDE), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) and Duale, Ovia & Alex-Adedipe (DOA), hosted a Stakeholders Engagement Forum and discussed the proposed National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill.
The highly anticipated event was held at the Command Guest Inn, Sokoto, the event brought together key stakeholders that deliberated on the bill’s provisions and potential impacts.
The bill seeks to establish a legal framework to guide Nigeria’s digital economy, focusing on fostering digital transformation, improving governance, and strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure. It equally aims to promote electronic transactions, data protection, cybersecurity, enhanced public service delivery, and inclusive economic growth through digital means.
The forum began with a brief introduction of the program by the Permanent Secretary of MIDE, Dr. Nasir Daniya. He emphasized the importance of the bill and the need for robust stakeholder-engagement to align its objectives with both national and state development priorities.
Mr. Abdulwasid Shola, from DOA, provided an overview of the bill’s key provisions, discussing electronic transactions, data protection, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure. He highlighted the responsibilities of various stakeholders, including government agencies, technology firms, digital service providers, and citizens, in achieving the bill’s objectives.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Tukur Bala Bodinga, expressed full support for the bill and assured stakeholders of its expedited review when presented to the House.
Hon. Bashar Umar Kwabo, MIDE Commissioner, commended Governor Dr. Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto for prioritizing ICT development in the state. He highlighted the recently launched Digital and Technical Skills Training Program for 10,000 youths, aimed at empowering young people to become productive and self-reliant.
Hon. Kwabo also described the bill as a crucial step towards institutionalizing e-governance and harmonizing digital economy activities. He appealed to the Speaker to fast-track the passage of the State Information Technology Development Agency (SITDA) Law, which he said is vital for advancing e-governance at the state level.
Furthermore, Hon. Kwabo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Dr. Bosun Tijjani as FMCIDE Minister, acknowledging his visionary leadership in driving Nigeria’s digital transformation.
Following the remarks from stakeholders, a breakout session was conducted, allowing participants to provide constructive feedback on the bill’s implementation. This interactive session encouraged practical suggestions to ensure the bill’s success and its alignment with the state’s digital aspirations.
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including members of the State Executive Council, local government chairmen, and members of the State House of Assembly, particularly Hon. Awaisu M. Aliyu, Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology.
Other attendees includes representatives from the Attorney General’s Office, the Commissioner for Budget, the NBA Sokoto Chapter, the Agile Program Coordinator for Sokoto State, and the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Sokoto Chapter etc.
In attendance also were the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) participated alongside media representatives from Channels TV, Alu TV, and The Path Nigeria.
Key private sector stakeholders, including digital service providers, telecommunications companies, and technology firms, as well as NGOs and women and children’s advocacy groups, also contributed to the comprehensive discussions.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Kwabo thanked all participants for their active engagement and contributions. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts in achieving the bill’s objectives and advancing Nigeria’s digital economy for the benefit of all citizens.
Muhammad Abubakar
30-11-2024
