Nigeria keen on tech devt as FG partners Microsoft on identity mgt

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated the commitment of his government to investing in technology for the betterment of the country.

Tinubu, who stated this when he met with the founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Special Meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, recalled that technology was very helpful to his administration when he was the governor of Lagos State.

He called for support from Microsoft in his time as president.

At the meeting, Microsoft revealed that it is working with the federal government to develop a ‘one-identity’ technological platform that can integrate variegated data.

Gates noted that the identity platform would explain the centrality of data harmonisation to planning, security, and tax efficiency in the country.

He explained that the ID technology called MOSIP would ensure that every Nigerian gets digital benefits. In addition to providing this technology support, the Microsoft Founder said he is ready to do more of Nigeria.

While noting that the drive to support Nigeria’s digitisation efforts is aimed at harmonising the country’s scattered data, Gates said: “We are working with Wale Edun, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, on digitisation. Before you came into office, there were a few things attempted in identity management. But they have been very scattered. There have been multiple identification systems.

“Now, there is a plan to take that technology called MOSIP and use it for this identification platform so that people can get digital benefits. We are providing support for that, and we can provide more support.’’

“With MOSIP ID, there is a potential application in all government payment programmes. It helps with payment efficiency and bank accounts, and eventually, when everyone is using that, it makes tax collection easier.

“That benefit will take a few years. However, there will be more bank accounts, more financial inclusion, and effective government payment programmes.”

The Microsoft founder noted that Nigeria can manage this system and related technological systems as the nation brims with talented youths.

Further, President Tinubu said his administration is investing in technology that is tailored towards ensuring transparency and accountability in government and accelerating public-sector performance and service delivery to the Nigerian people.

Tinubu added that technology is a potent weapon against corruption and financial impropriety in public service.

Emphasising his unwavering commitment to deliver reliable technology that will support a national consumer credit system and many other critical new government interventions for all Nigerians, the President said resistance is often expected when efforts are made to strengthen systems and forestall malfeasance.

“Technology is the enemy of fraud, corruption, and irregularity. We have been working hard on improving technology.

“There is always the initial resistance. Corruption, self-interest, and fraudulent activity will always be an enemy, but when you bend that curve, you will receive the benefit. The nation will receive the benefit,” the President said.

Recounting how he deployed technology to enhance the revenue base of Lagos State as governor, President Tinubu said he ensured the collection and utilization of essential data, creating an efficient tax system for the state.

“When I was governor of Lagos State, I faced challenges. I started with N600 million and ended up with over N8 billion. And right now, they are targeting a trillion naira with the use of technology in the state. There is no other shortcut. We must invest in technology. We must focus, be diligent, and work hard,” the President said.