‘Odidiomo’ Stresses Importance of Legislative Backing for ICT Expansion

…as House of Reps holds public hearing on bills to establish ICT institute, tech hubs

The House of Representatives is today holding a public hearing, to deliberate on two critical bills aimed at boosting digital literacy, innovation and infrastructure across the country.

The hearing is currently ongoing is taking place at Meeting Room 201 of the House of Representatives New Building, National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

Organised by the House Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cybersecurity, the hearing is chaired by Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, who represents Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West federal constituency of Oyo state.

The committee, according to a statement made available to journalists by Tolu Mustapha, Special Adviser, Media and Public Affairs to Hon. Olajide, noted that the session would give stakeholders an opportunity to present their views on two proposed legislations: A Bill for an Act to establish the Federal Institute of Information Communication Technology in Idanre, Ondo State (HB. 783) and another seeking to promote ICT education, entrepreneurship and infrastructure development across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with Atisbo designated as the South-West zonal hub (HB. 1360).

According to the statement, the proposed federal institute in Idanre is expected to offer full time training, teaching and instruction in various aspects of information and communication technology (ICT). The bill also makes provision for the appointment of a provost and other officers of the institute, as well as the administration and discipline of students.

The second bill, HB. 1360, the statement further said, seeks to develop a technology focused ecosystem across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones by promoting digital education and entrepreneurship, with particular emphasis on establishing hubs, including one in Atisbo Local Government area of Oyo state, to serve the south-west region.

Speaking at the opening session of the hearing, Hon. Olajide stressed the importance of legislative backing for ICT expansion in Nigeria, describing digital infrastructure as “the backbone of a sustainable economy in the 21st century.” He urged stakeholders in the ICT sector, academia, private industry and civil society organisations in attendance to make their voices heard in shaping the future of Nigeria’s digital policy landscape.

“The bills before us are critical to closing the digital divide and empowering our youth with 21st century skills,” Hon. Olajide stated. “This public hearing is an open door for innovation, investment and ideas that will drive inclusive growth.”

The hearing is expected to attract input from technologists, educationists, policymakers, development experts and representatives of professional bodies, with outcomes that are expected to significantly shape Nigeria’s digital transformation trajectory.

More details to follow as the story develops…