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Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has hinted that the inauguration of the Advisory Council for Technology, Innovation and Digital Economy is part of his administration’s long-term strategy to build a strong digital economy.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Council held at the state Secretariat, Osogbo, the governor expressed optimism that the council would create an ecosystem that supports learning, creativity and enterprise.
The governor explained that the Council was central to his administration vision of using technology to drive economic growth, create jobs and open new opportunities for people of the state.
Represented by Dr. Biyi Odunlade, the Commissioner for Political Affairs and Inter-Governmental ,the governor said “Our administration has introduced the State ICT policy now under implementation.
“This Council is therefore coming at the right time and we believe your expertise will help us translate these foundations into sustainable systems and measurable impact. Your recommendations will shape digital policies, guide investments and strengthen our innovation ecosystem.”
” I urge all members to serve with dedication and integrity as this work goes beyond advisory functions but more about shaping the future of Osun. The decisions we take today will determine the competitiveness of our State in the next decade”.
“I also encourage you to work closely with ministries, institutions, youth organisations and the private sector. Technology thrives on collaboration as no single agency can do it alone.”
“Together, we can create an ecosystem that supports learning, creativity and enterprise. To the members of this Council, the oath you will take shortly is a reminder of the trust placed in you. It calls for professionalism, loyalty and a commitment to the progress of our State. As Governor, I assure you of the full support of this administration. We will provide the environment, resources and cooperation needed for you to succeed.”
As of 2022, Osun has no Tech innovation policy.”Our government has developed and delivered the Osun State Tech Innovation Policy also under implementation. We started the fibre optics broadband project which is presently under review for sustainability”.
“Osun domesticated the National Start up Act to enhance development and empowerment of Tech entrepreneurs and local tech hubs for thriving innovations and collective prosperity. Osun was the second state to so domesticate the law. Our government increased goggle mapping coverage of Osun from below 50 percent then to over 60 percent. Our goggle mapping volunteers did a marvelous job and they are still in the field.”
“The creation of this Council is part of our long-term strategy to build a strong digital economy and this team of experts will guide the State on policies, projects and partnerships that will deepen our digital capacity. Your role will include advising the government on innovation, digital skills, data governance, emerging technologies and the future of work.”
“We want Osun to be known as a place where ideas grow, innovations encouraged and technology-driven careers driven by young people. We want startups to thrive and digital entrepreneurs to find support and a clear pathway for scaling their businesses.”
“In the last two years, we have laid important foundations like the launching of the Osun Tech Innovation and Digital Skills Programme, training of thousands of youths in software development, e-commerce and online marketing. We have also upgraded ICT infrastructure across schools and agencies and expanded partnerships with private sector players and development agencies. All these steps prepare us for the next phase of growth.”
It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this important occasion. Today marks another step in our commitment to building a modern and forward-looking Osun State, he stressed.
In his own remark, HON. Maruf Dele Ayofe, Commissioner For Innovation, Science, Technology and Digital Economy,, said the inuguration reflects our resolve to unlock the full potential of digital transformation in every sector which includes agriculture, education, healthcare, enterprise, civic engagement and public service delivery.
” As members of this council, you are the custodians of a future that demands courage, foresight and unwavering commitment. Your expertise will shape policies, inspire technological advancement, promote digital inclusion, and guide Osun State toward a knowledge-driven economy.”
“This administration believes firmly in the power of innovation to transform lives. We are building digital infrastructure, promoting talent development, supporting startups, strengthening ICT education and creating an enabling environment where ideas can flourish and solutions can evolve, he stated.
In his own submission,The Special Adviser on Innovation, Science, Technology and Digital Economy,, , Hon. Azeez Badmus,charged members of the council to be dutiful and dedicated to justice the confidence repose on them.
He charged them to use their digital knowledge to add more values to the state and at the same time, promote it, technologically.
According to him,” there are 15 board members to shape of future of the state digitally. We are also trying to involve people from the private sector with people in governance.Before, you can be a member, you must be an indigene and you must have attained a certain mileage in digital knowledge” he stressed.
Also speaking, a member of the advisory council, Segun Solomon, said one of the core of the Programme, is to promote digital economy and technology.
” We have been doing this before to position Osun as one of the major city hub in Nigerian that drive technology for solutions that are locally needed in the state.”
“Osun is one of the second states in the federation that is leading in digital technology. Even, Oyo, Ekiti and more other national developed states, are not yet there.osun has passed the domesticated national third reading in the house of assembly and very well ready and position to drive innovation and digital growth in Nigeria”.
