By Ademola Adedoyin Joy (SIWES student, D S Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic)
As per an ICT expert, Nigeria’s development hinges on the availability of high-quality data. Professor Wole Olatokun, a specialist in Social Informatics, Knowledge Management, and ICT Policies, recently delivered a lecture in Ibadan, Nigeria, underscoring the imperative of addressing unreliable data to achieve the country’s development goals.
He emphasized that the government must take decisive action to resolve this issue.
In his lecture titled Information and Data Science: The Siamese Twin Shaping the New World Order, Professor Olatokun emphasized the intricate connection between information and data science, particularly in the digital era.
He stressed the critical need for accurate and reliable data, as it plays a pivotal role in planning, decision-making, and problem-solving. Without quality data, he believes that development in Nigeria will remain an elusive aspiration.
The professor also advocated for increased funding for universities and research institutions to promote further research and innovation in information and data science.
Professor Olatokun offered several noteworthy suggestions to advance research and innovation in data and information science.
He proposed the establishment of research grants, centers of excellence, and innovation hubs to drive technological progress and economic growth.
He also highlighted the importance of improving salaries and working conditions to retain talent and discourage the Japa syndrome.
Moreover, he emphasized the significance of funding research and development in data and information science to stimulate innovative ideas that can attract entrepreneurial interest.
Strengthening the collaboration between universities and businesses and involving the private sector more actively is also crucial.
Finally, he urged the implementation of the Cybercrimes Act of 2015 to address cybercrime-related issues and create an environment conducive to growth and progress.
According to Professor Olatokun, addressing data security concerns involves implementing the Cybercrimes Act of 2015 under the Office of the National Security Adviser.
This step is crucial for ensuring the safety and protection of data.
Additionally, the professor recommended introducing data and information literacy into all levels of education, from primary to tertiary, to equip the younger generation with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage and interpret data.
