The Kwara State Government has praised the Federal Government for the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill, emphasizing its potential to enhance governance and improve engagement between the government and citizens.
Speaking at the stakeholders’ engagement on the Bill held in Ilorin, the state capital, the Commissioner for Communications, Mrs. Bola Olukoju, highlighted the state’s commitment to supporting technology-driven initiatives. She noted that the Bill would streamline government operations and foster effective communication with the public.
“The Kwara State Government is proud to back initiatives like the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill. It promises to facilitate smoother governance, better administration, and improved government-citizen relations,” Olukoju said.
She also pointed to the state’s ongoing efforts to develop its tech ecosystem, including the upcoming Ilorin Innovation Hub, which is expected to be operational by the year’s end. “This hub will transform the state’s tech landscape, supporting startups and encouraging innovation among our youth,” she added.
Olukoju stressed the importance of embracing the digital economy to optimize resources and empower the state’s tech-savvy youth. “Kwara’s youthful population is ready to harness opportunities in the tech ecosystem, and this Bill will be instrumental in supporting young entrepreneurs and startups,” she said, expressing optimism about its passage in the National Assembly.
Stakeholders’ Perspectives
Banke Ajaguna, Special Assistant to the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, underscored the importance of the stakeholders’ engagement in shaping a people-centered policy. The event brought together senior government officials, members of state assemblies, tech ecosystem players, and civil society organizations to review the draft Bill.
“This engagement is about creating a policy that reflects the people’s needs and aspirations within the digital economy. It’s an opportunity to ask critical questions and ensure the Bill addresses key issues when it becomes law,” Ajaguna explained.
She further emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to securing the support of all stakeholders, ensuring the legislation effectively promotes Nigeria’s digital economy and governance objectives.
