– By Moji Danisa
There was a time when development, economic might, and international trade were concentrated in the West.
Most people hesitated to associate with products from Asia, with the rare exception of Japan, which excelled in electronics and automobiles.
Those days are now in the past. Many Asian countries have emerged as power blocs in their own right, thanks to their dedication to technological research, innovations, investments, and breakthroughs.
China, for instance, has become a world power, boasting an annual digital economy worth $3 trillion. The country has moved beyond economic recessions, and its products dominate markets worldwide.
South Korea is another global leader in technology, known as a digital powerhouse. This success is the result of deliberate investments and a relentless commitment to technological advancement. The country possesses one of the world’s most advanced information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructures.
Research shows that South Korea heavily invests in cutting-edge technologies such as advanced semiconductors, artificial intelligence, big data, quantum computing, and cybersecurity.
With a population skilled in advanced technologies, the ICT sector has propelled the country into the modern world, yielding significant economic transformations and massive innovations in artificial intelligence.
What about Taiwan? Once ridiculed globally for being a “copycat” producer, it has now transformed into a leader in technology. Taiwan excels in semiconductors, photonics, and ICT, and its commitment to AI innovation has made its economy competitive with other global powers.
India’s tech industry is another force to reckon with. Its relentless drive for technological advancement is earning the country billions, with numerous billionaires emerging from the sector in recent years.
Amid these success stories, where does Nigeria stand? Unfortunately, Nigerian leaders have often been slow to embrace modern technology, offering little more than lip service, akin to teachers who know nothing about the subjects they are assigned to teach.
Yet, there is a glimmer of hope. One man, Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Olajide (Odidiomo), has demonstrated unwavering commitment to ICT. With an extensive background in ICT, bolstered by over two decades of experience with international tech firms, Odidiomo is on a mission to propel Nigeria into the 21st century and he believes that in the next few years, with dedication and hardwork, Nigeria can speed up with the times.
Representing Ibadan North-West/South-West Federal Constituency, the Chairman of the House Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity is dedicated to ensuring Nigeria catches up with the likes of South Korea, Taiwan, India, China and others. Through partnerships, training, donating and establishing facilities, Odidiomo aims to empower Nigerian youth with critical skills in digital technology.
One of his numerous initiatives includes setting up ICT training centers and programs within his community.
The latest of such programs is a comprehensive Digital Literacy and Data Protection Training for 600 youths in his constituency, scheduled for Monday, 18th November 2024.
The training, to be held at Jogor Centre in Ibadan, is designed to equip young Nigerians with essential digital technology and cybersecurity skills, vital for thriving in today’s tech-driven world.
Organized in collaboration with the Federal College of Horticulture, Dadin Kowa, and supported by private sector partners Salico-Prime Investment Limited and Manban Global Concept Nigeria Limited, the program is expected to transform lives by fostering digital literacy and emphasizing personal data protection at a time when online security is of growing concern.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Tolu Mustapha, the two-term lawmaker explained that the initiative is part of his ongoing efforts to empower the youth in his constituency, ensuring they are equipped to excel in the digital era.
“This training is an opportunity for the youth in Ibadan North-West and Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency of Oyo State to enhance their digital skills and understand the fundamental principles of data protection,” Odidiomo said.
