Experts Call For Digital Inclusivity To Transform Economy

The Professional Leadership Practitioner Institute PLPI has highlighted the critical role of digital leadership in driving Nigeria's growth, stressing the need for firm policies, investments in technology, and a cultural shift toward embracing digital transformation. This call was made during the 2024 PLPI conference and fellowship investiture, where Prof. Jacob Ayantayo served as the guest speaker.

In his address, Prof. Ayantayo underscored the immense potential of digital leadership to not only boost economic growth but also to enhance governance, positioning Nigeria as a competitive global player. He emphasized that for Nigeria to thrive in an increasingly digital world, there must be an investment in technology and the establishment of strong, clear policies that promote digital progress.

One of the key areas he focused on was cybersecurity, which is crucial in the digital space. He called on the government to implement robust measures that will protect sensitive information from hacking, fraud, and cybercrime. Specifically, he praised the Nigerian banking sector's adoption of digital payment solutions, such as mobile banking, but warned that these platforms must be secured to protect users from identity theft and financial losses. He also stressed the importance of continuous education to ensure people understand online security best practices.

Furthermore, Prof. Ayantayo emphasized the need to protect personal data, especially as digital platforms are increasingly used across various sectors like finance, healthcare, and education. He urged leaders to adhere to ethical privacy guidelines and ensure user data is processed in compliance with regulations such as the Nigerian Data Protection Regulation NDPR. He also highlighted the necessity of transparency in data usage, calling on leaders to prioritize openness about how data is used and to obtain informed consent from users.

A central part of his message was the call for digital inclusivity, which he argued is essential for bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas. He urged leaders to work towards providing affordable internet access and digital education to ensure equal access to digital resources for all Nigerians.

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Fyneray Mbata, the Director of Corporate Affairs and Communications at PLPI, echoed the importance of embracing technology but also acknowledged the potential challenges it brings. He noted job displacement, cybersecurity risks, and digital dependence as possible drawbacks, urging the government to take proactive steps to harness digital innovations while mitigating their risks for the benefit of all Nigerians.

In summary, the PLPI's call for digital leadership advocates for a balanced approach, one that fosters growth and innovation while safeguarding security, privacy, and inclusivity in Nigerias evolving digital landscape.