The Federal Government has expressed commitment to advancing digital approach to governance as parts of effort to modernise its operations as well as creating more transparent and efficient systems of the public service as the engine room for government policies.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, stated this at the Nigeria Govtech Conference and Awards themed “Digital Innovations As A Catalyst for the Renewed Hope Agenda” which was organised by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) on Thursday in Abuja.
Represented by Barrister Olusegun Adekunle, the SGF said the theme of Conference is not just timely but aligns with the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to reshape service delivery and establish an inclusive governance structure across the Federation through digital innovation.
While commending the BPSR for providing the platform for advancing and promotion of technology in the public service, the SGF said President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda focuses eight priority areas which include reforming the economy to deliver sustainable inclusive growth, strengthening national security for peace and prosperity, improving governance for effective service delivery, accelerating diversification through industrialisation, digitalisation, creative arts, manufacturing and innovation, boost agriculture to achieve food security among others.
“One of the primary goals of this administration is to improve public service delivery and ensure that government services are accessible, transparent and effective. To achieve this, we must continue to invest in the digital transformation of our public institutions, support the development of robust ICT infrastructure and promote policies that encourage innovation and the use of emerging technologies in governance.
“In line with these priorities, we have made significant strides in integrating technology into governance, ensuring that digital transformation is at the core of our national development strategy. This is a unique gathering that provides a strategic platform for engagement, collaboration and deliberation on harnessing technology to transform governance and service delivery across the country.
“I must commend the Bureau of Public Service Reforms for establishing this platform to promote synergy and recognise the achievements achieved in the application of technology within the public service at both the federal and state levels,” the SGF stated.
The Director General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Dasuki Arabi, earlier in his welcome address, said the conference is aimed at bringing together government representatives at all levels including key players in the technology industry, to discuss and identify ways in which new and emerging trends in ICT can be leveraged to transform public service delivery and enhance the overall well-being of Nigerians.
According to him, the future of Nigeria’s public service lies in its ability to embrace digital transformation as a cornerstone of governance.
“Digital platforms can enhance social investment initiatives by connecting beneficiaries with resources and services. Online platforms can facilitate skill development, entrepreneurship training and access to financial services, empowering individuals and communities.
“With the right technology and innovation, we cannot only fulfill the mandates of the Renewed Hope Agenda but also create a more prosperous and inclusive society for all Nigerians. The Renewed Hope Agenda symbolises a vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a Nigeria where every citizen can enjoy improved services, enhanced security, economic growth, and equitable opportunities for all.
“This is where digital innovation comes in, not just as a support tool but as a dynamic force that accelerates and facilitates the realisation of these goals,” Arabi said.
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