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My Gov’t Is Investing In Technology For Transparency, Accountability – Says Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s dedication to investing in technology that promotes transparency and accountability in government.
This commitment, the Nigerian leader said, is aimed at enhancing public-sector performance and delivering efficient services to the Nigerian people.
Nation Post reports that Tinubu conveyed this message during a meeting with Bill Gates, the Microsoft founder and philanthropist, at the World Economic Forum Special Meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The Nigerian president highlighted the power of technology in combating corruption and financial misconduct within the public service. He reiterated his unwavering determination to provide reliable technology that supports a national consumer credit system and other crucial government initiatives for the benefit of Nigerians.
Tinubu acknowledged that resistance is often encountered when efforts are made to strengthen systems and prevent wrongdoing.
He said: “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.”
Tinubu highlighted his use of technology to boost Lagos State’s revenue during his time as governor, emphasizing the importance of collecting and utilizing crucial data to establish a streamlined tax system for the state.
The President said: “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.”
During his speech, Gates briefed the President on a unified technological platform that has the capability to consolidate diverse data, emphasizing the importance of data harmonization in strategic planning, security measures, and tax optimization.
“We are working with Mr 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,” he said.
He noted that MOSIP ID helps with payment efficiency and bank accounts, and eventually, when everyone uses it, 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,” he said.
Gates expressed optimism that Nigeria can manage this system and related technological systems, as the nation is brimming with talented youths.
He added: “The last time I went to the Microsoft office in Lagos, I saw the amazing work that they were doing and how they were growing their operations.
“So, you have a lot of Nigerian talents to manage these systems.”
The entrepreneur further discussed the utilization of high-yield seeds and a diverse range of crops that can enhance productivity and nutrition across the nation.
He mentioned that countries such as the United States and Brazil have successfully employed these seeds, which have undergone rigorous testing and certification to ensure their safety.
Gates emphasized that there are no safety concerns associated with these seeds. He expressed his belief in the significance of endorsing and supporting the Minister of Agriculture’s endeavours in this matter.
