Experts Call On Youth To Lead Nigeria's Digital Revolution
Nigeria’s path to prosperity lies in the digital economy, and the youth must rise to drive this transformation, experts declared at a high-level seminar focused on unlocking national growth through information technology and innovation.
The message was clear at the Association of Applied Information Management Professionals (AAIMP) seminar held on Friday, April 25, 2025, in Karu, Abuja. With the theme, “Powering Nigeria’s Digital Economy: Through Advanced Information Management Paradigms,” the event brought together policymakers, academics, and digital leaders to chart a course for the country’s digital future.
Mr. Emmanuel John Kadiya, who represented Hon. Gaza Jonathan Gbefwi, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, delivered a powerful address as Chairman of the Occasion, stating that digital transformation is “the bridge between today's challenges and tomorrow's prosperity.”
“For Nigeria to thrive in the global digital economy, our young people must lead the charge by mastering information management and leveraging technology to create opportunities locally and internationally,” Gbefwi said in his message.
In a call to action that resonated across the room, he declared, “You will save Nigeria. Technology is already fixing revenue leakages and transforming infrastructure. We must move from building Nigerian products to creating global solutions. With a smartphone, you can establish a business worth N250 million.”
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Peter Olumuji, Secretary of the Command and Control Centre, FCT Administration, emphasized that the global shift to digital economies is irreversible — and Nigeria must not be left behind.
“The future of any nation’s economy is digital,” Olumuji said. “Nigeria has already keyed in with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy. Our youth are naturally positioned to drive this transformation.”
Recalling the role digital platforms played during the COVID-19 pandemic, he noted: “That was a glimpse into the power of the digital economy. For Nigeria to maximize this, we must strengthen broadband infrastructure across both urban and rural areas.”
Prof. Haruna Ayuba, Vice Chancellor of Bingham University, echoed these views, describing the seminar as timely and essential to national development.
“To harness digital opportunities, we must reimagine strategies that encompass emerging technologies like cloud computing, blockchain, and big data analytics,” Ayuba said. “Our interdisciplinary departments are pushing the frontiers of data science and information systems. We are proud to host this seminar and stand with AIMP in shaping Nigeria’s digital economy.”
He stressed the importance of collaboration: “We must ensure our curricula and innovations remain globally competitive. This will only happen through partnerships with professional associations, tech companies, and international bodies.”
Contributing further, Dr. Adabu Suleiman Usman, Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Bingham University, underscored the critical role of data harmonization and cybersecurity.
“We cannot continue with data silos. NIMC, CAC, and others must integrate,” he said. “We need infrastructure capable of supporting 250 million Nigerians — starting with a nationwide optic fiber backbone. Our security and sovereignty depend on where our data is stored and who has access.”
He urged the youth to embrace data-powered innovation. “Data is power, and today’s youth must harness it to position themselves in the global digital economy.”
Major General Chris Olukolade (Rtd), Chairman of the Centre for Crisis Communication, also spoke, stressing the role of accurate information in national security and crisis response.
“Reliable and coordinated information is not just useful — it is lifesaving,” he said. “The digital economy we seek depends heavily on how effectively we manage and leverage evolving information infrastructure.”
He commended AAIMP for promoting dialogue across sectors and pledged continued support from his Centre toward strengthening intelligent information management.
Welcoming guests, Dr. Omotola Deji Afuye, President of AIMP, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to driving national development through knowledge and innovation.
“The digital economy thrives on structured data, timely information, and innovative systems that enhance productivity and decision-making,” he said. “We are not just building an association; we are building a legacy of excellence in information management.”
He also announced the association’s upcoming 5th National Conference slated for July 2025 in Lagos, urging participants to contribute actively to shaping Nigeria’s digital future.
The event concluded with the induction of new AAIMP members, who were charged with upholding ethical standards, fostering innovation, and playing a key role in Nigeria’s digital advancement.