LAGOS UNVEILS DIGITAL SERVICE PLATFORM, EXTOLLING IMPORTANCE OF AI
Lagos State Government today unveiled the "Lagos Digital Service Platform", a pivotal transformative tool embodying the state's vision of accessible, transparent, and efficient governance.
Speaking at the unveiling during the Art of Technology Lagos 6.0 themed: “AI and The Lagos Digital Economy” held at Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, the State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu said the platform will bridge the gap between government and the people, fostering trust and delivering impactful services and results in the State.
The Governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, stated that his administration is committed to building a Lagos that epitomises modernity, inclusivity, and innovation through the Vision 2052.
According to him, “The long-term development plan focuses on a thriving economy powered by innovation, modern infrastructure that supports a smart city vision, effective governance that adapts to the needs of the people, and a human-centric approach that ensures that no one is left behind,” he said.
Noting that his government is laying the foundation for a Lagos that is not only a tech hub but also a global example of sustainable urban development, he averred that his administration’s commitment to its sustainability remains steadfast as it continues to embrace advanced technology like Artificial Intelligence and blockchain.
He stated that Lagos is not just Nigeria’s economic nerve centre but Africa’s leading technology hub as the state accounts for over 60 percent of Nigeria’s tech startups, supported by accelerators, incubators, and global tech giants.
The Governor disclosed that in 2023, Lagos-based startups raised over $1.2 billion - 75 percent of all startup investments in Nigeria. He added that through deliberate policies and investments, his administration has created an enabling environment that fosters innovation and positions Lagos as a global player in the technology value chain.
He said that with the Enterprise Architecture Project, the state government is harmonizing data systems to prepare for AI-driven service delivery, calling on stakeholders to collaborate with the state government, saying, “As we navigate the future of artificial intelligence, collaboration is key. Policymakers, educators, entrepreneurs, and innovators all have a role in shaping this journey.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr. Tunbosun Alake, said that the government is already laying the groundwork for an integrated digital future through the enterprise architecture project.
He added that with the Lagos State Innovation Bill, the state is also creating an enabling environment for AI research and development, incentivizing startups and researchers to explore AI applications and embed AI education in the education sector.
“Lagos is the Nation’s tech capital which is uniquely positioned to capture a lion’s share of Artificial Intelligence growth, and as such, the state government is actively engaging with national and regional stakeholders, such as the Federal AI Collective, to develop ethical and regulatory frameworks that ensure responsible AI deployment”, Alake posited.
The Commissioner stated that to achieve the set goal, the State needs skilled AI engineers and data scientists who are solving real-world problems through innovative solutions.
Speaking further on the advantage of harnessing AI in the state, he noted that in the agricultural sector, Al will help enhance agricultural yield through predictive analytics and improve healthcare diagnostics and personalised medicine, thereby optimising the transportation systems with AI-driven insights.
In his contribution, a technology expert, Mr. Olugbolahan Olusanya said that Lagos State had a lot to gain in taking advantage of Artificial Intelligence in its various operations going by the high number of youths in the state capable of supporting the government in its drive to leverage on the fast-growing technology.
He, however, stressed that there is a need for the government to provide the necessary facilities in the state to support the use of AI at all levels.
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