While the world is not free of Covid-19 with different variants cropping up here and there, countries are charting paths for economic recovery post-Covid. In retrospect, many now agree that though the pandemic brought negative impacts, there is no denying that it deepened digital transformation.
In light of this, Africa’s technology giant, SystemSpecs, has encouraged Nigerians to tap into the opportunities provided through recent growths in the country’s ICT sector.
The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria Centre for Financial Studies (CIBNCFS), in partnership with B. Adedipe Associates Limited (BAA), recently hosted a webinar that explored how key industries fared during the pandemic as well as practical strategies that can drive growth and profitability as the economy moves towards recovery.
Speaking at a panel, Deremi Atanda, Executive Director, SystemSpecs, shared insights on the state of Nigeria’s technology and innovation. He believes that Nigeria’s ICT boom is a great opportunity for the national economy to thrive in terms of capacity building for economic advancement
He said, “As the economy continues its slow recovery from the damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is key that Nigeria takes more concerted efforts towards diversifying her economy.”
According to him, technology holds a great potential that has barely been scratched and can be harnessed through well-thought-out policies and a business climate that encourages innovation.
In his expert opinion, COVID-19 has represented more of an opportunity for the ICT sector than demerits. “Globally, COVID-19 has lent a great deal to the entrenchment of ICT in various sectors more than ever. I wish we were more prepared to maximize the opportunities ICT has presented us to improve the economy,” Atanda said.
Pointing to the case of 60% of government workers working remotely, he suggested that this could have brought about economic advantage if the government had stimulated production and distribution of laptops, as well as strengthened the expansion of broadband penetration not to mention increased digital literacy.
Even in the face of a global pandemic, Nigeria has witnessed increased remittances into the economy owing to direct economic activities by players in the ICT sector.
He observed that this creates an avenue for the Nigerian government to develop outsourcing. Citing the case of India, he exhorted the government to turn these young people into an economic workforce that can be unleashed on the world.
“Nigeria has a lot more to offer if we harness our tech policies and engage at a high level,” Atanda stated.
With cybercrimes on the rise, he believes the situation will create opportunities for cybersecurity companies and professionals.
Featured Image: Deremi Atanda, Executive Director, SystemSpecs
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