The Federal Government and Microsoft have met to discuss digital transformation in the country’s governance process.
The discussion which held in Abuja had officials of FG’s IT agencies and top management staff of Microsoft in attendance.
Topped discussions at the meeting was how fast Nigeria should adopt new technologies, such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and the internet of things in governance.
Microsoft officials told FG team and other participants that the new technologies would create a promising new opportunity for governments to enhance the way they interact with citizens.
“At the same time, there is a responsibility to ensure security, compliance and data privacy in every digital interaction”, Public Sector Government Leader – Microsoft Middle East & Africa, Salwa Smaoui, told journalists on sideline after the meeting tagged ‘Reimagine the future of Nigeria’.
“Success in an increasingly digital future depends on how well governments use technology to transform, create new value and positive business outcomes, and deliver new and improved citizen services at scale.
“Today’s rising millennial population expect more streamlined and personalised services, and government services are no exception.”
The meeting came as a natural progression in Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to bring about digital transformation across societies and industries.
In 2017, the organisation partnered with Strathmore University in Kenya, opening a Policy Innovation Centre with aim of providing a platform that facilitates digital change in areas such as government and the likes.
“A digitally transformed government will improve the ease of doing business for small businesses, foreign direct investment, and two-way communications with citizens.
“We hope to empower officials with the information, tools and resources that enable them to do more and achieve more for the citizens they serve.”