In an insightful interview with LUKMAN OLABIYI, Ibrahim Olasege, a seasoned Information and Communication Technology (ICT) expert and Chief Executive Officer of Gbolib Enterprise, unveils a roadmap for Nigeria to harness the full potential of ICT in combating the myriad of challenges it faces, notably insecurity, economic underdevelopment, and cybercrime. Olasege’s perspective illuminates the untapped opportunities within ICT that, if properly leveraged, could significantly transform Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.
Olasege’s critique of the Nigerian youth’s attraction to the negative aspects of ICT underscores a deeper socio-economic malaise. Economic hardship and a lack of viable alternatives have nudged some youths towards cybercrime as a shortcut to wealth. This situation is exacerbated by societal pressures and the glamorization of quick success, sidelining the constructive and transformative power of ICT. To counteract this trend, Olasege advocates for a cultural shift, bolstered by educational reforms that emphasize ethical ICT practices and provide legitimate pathways to prosperity through technology.
On leveraging ICT for economic development, Olasege envisions a multifaceted approach. He emphasizes the critical role of e-government initiatives in enhancing service delivery, reducing bureaucracy, and fostering transparency. By integrating ICT into agriculture, Nigeria can revolutionize its primary economic sector through precision farming, supply chain optimizations, and market accessibility, thus boosting productivity. Additionally, smart city projects can elevate urban living standards, attract investments, and promote sustainable development. Olasege also highlights the importance of digital education, e-commerce, healthcare technology, and robust cybersecurity measures as pillars for economic revitalization.
Addressing the pervasive issue of insecurity, Olasege outlines a strategic role for ICT in national security frameworks. Surveillance technologies, data analytics, emergency response systems, and digital forensics can significantly enhance the effectiveness of security operations. Community policing platforms and border security solutions, underpinned by ICT, offer innovative approaches to safeguarding the populace and maintaining territorial integrity.
The government’s role in maximizing ICT’s benefits, according to Olasege, is pivotal yet complex. While acknowledging the government’s initiatives, such as the National ICT Policy and investments in broadband infrastructure, he calls for more concerted efforts in addressing infrastructural gaps, cybersecurity, and fostering a conducive environment for innovation and digital literacy.
To stimulate youth interest in ICT, Olasege proposes a comprehensive strategy focusing on education, skill development, entrepreneurship, and the creation of support networks. Encouraging participation in high-demand ICT domains such as data science, cybersecurity, and cloud computing can position Nigerian youths for global competitiveness. This requires not only government action but also collaboration with the private sector to establish ICT hubs, provide incentives, and celebrate success stories.
Confronting internet fraud necessitates a holistic and collaborative approach that spans legislative reforms, enhanced cybersecurity, public awareness campaigns, and the strengthening of digital financial systems. Olasege underscores the need for continuous adaptation and multi-stakeholder engagement in combating cybercrime.
On a global scale, Nigerian youths are encouraged to specialize in emergent and critical ICT sectors to enhance their competitiveness. Olasege points to data science, cybersecurity, and software development as key areas with global demand. Training and education are essential, with a call for more accessible and high-quality training platforms across Nigeria.
Lastly, attracting foreign investment in ICT requires Nigeria to adopt investor-friendly policies, bolster cybersecurity, improve infrastructure, and actively promote success stories. Olasege’s confidence in these recommendations stems from his extensive experience in computer engineering and networking, combined with a deep commitment to education and skill development in the ICT sector.
Ibrahim Olasege’s insights offer a comprehensive blueprint for leveraging ICT as a catalyst for addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges. Through targeted interventions in education, economic development, security, and governance, ICT can be transformed from a peripheral element to a central pillar of Nigeria’s journey towards sustainable development and prosperity.
