By hannover-web.com Emma Okonji
In an exciting development for Nigeria’s digital landscape, the federal government, through its agency Galaxy Backbone, is nearing the completion of a harmonized government service portal. This innovative initiative aims to integrate services from various federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) into a secure, unified online platform, significantly enhancing citizen access to government services while promoting data-driven decision-making in governance.
At the recent Nigeria eGovernment Summit 2024 held in Lagos, Prof. Ibrahim Adeyanju, Managing Director and CEO of Galaxy Backbone Limited, shared that the service portal is expected to launch by December this year. He emphasized that Nigeria is stepping into a new era of smart governance, characterized by increased accessibility of public services through digital platforms and innovative solutions, which he believes will pave the way for substantial economic growth.
“The transformation we are pursuing is not just about embracing new technologies; it’s about cultivating a culture of innovation that empowers our communities and strengthens our economic resilience,” Adeyanju explained. “Nigeria has made remarkable strides in the digital transformation of government services. The Government Service Portal, a key outcome of the e-Government Master Plan 2.0, showcases this advancement. By integrating services from more than 20 sectors across 12 federal MDAs into one secure platform, we’re making it easier for citizens to access essential services and facilitating informed decision-making. With the first phase set to be completed by December 2024, we are establishing a foundation for future expansion. At Galaxy Backbone, we see ourselves as facilitators, creating a platform that unites digital services across the nation. Our goal is to foster digital inclusion in Nigeria while potentially extending these services to other regions of Africa,” he continued.
Adeyanju further stressed the importance of collaboration between government agencies and the private sector in leveraging technology to drive digital transformation. “With a growing ecosystem, enhanced digital infrastructure, and supportive regulations, businesses in Nigeria can capitalize on digital tools to optimize their operations and explore new markets, both domestically and internationally. This initiative ultimately benefits citizens, providing them with greater access to digital services and improved governance through effective e-government strategies,” he stated.
During a panel discussion at the summit, Mr. Wole Abu, CEO of Liquid Intelligent Technologies Nigeria, shed light on the impact of e-governance amid the advancements of the fourth industrial revolution. He noted the crucial roles that technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, the Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, and Cybersecurity play in this evolving landscape.
Abu pointed out that the groundwork for the fourth industrial revolution builds upon the developments of the third, which began in the early 1960s with advancements in ICT and digital manufacturing alongside the rise of the internet. He noted that citizens’ expectations for government efficiency have evolved, creating a demand for smooth technological integration. Nevertheless, he highlighted the necessity for the government to prioritize the needs of its constituents, stressing that technological advancements should enhance the educational sector, as educational progress is vital for the nation’s overall development.
