Tech4Dev Partners, NESG, FCDO Plan  to Boost Lagos Digital Economy

In a bid to strengthen Lagos State’s digital economy, the Technology for Social Change and Development Initiative (Tech4Dev), in collaboration with the Policy Innovation Centre of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG/PIC) and the Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO), brought together key players from diverse sectors to strategise in bolstering Lagos State’s digital economy.

The event saw the active participation of stakeholders from the public and private sectors, government agencies, and development organisations, all of whom were divided into dynamic Consultative Working Groups (CWG). These groups were tasked with formulating a comprehensive five-year plan and strategy for the implementation of the four pillars of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS).

Among the proposals discussed during the workshop was the creation of more digital jobs through the upskilling of the labor force to meet the demands of digitally enabled entrepreneurs. Participants recognised that tech startups faced challenges in finding a skilled tech workforce, and by enhancing digital upskilling programs, the state can bridge this gap and boost job creation in the technology sector.

Additionally, the workshop explored the need for clear and comprehensive policy documentation and communication. Stakeholders emphasised that this pertained not only to technology policies but also to broader government policies. By ensuring that policies are well-documented and effectively communicated to the relevant stakeholders, the state government can foster a more conducive environment for digital economy growth.

To facilitate the implementation of these initiatives, participants proposed the establishment of a regulatory framework to support technological learning in schools. This project would be coordinated by the state’s ministries of science and technology, education, and information, fostering a coordinated effort to drive digital education and economic progress.

Immanuel Umukoro, Senior Research and Policy Manager at Tech4Dev, announced that Lagos State will be provided with technical support to formulate an action plan for the implementation of a digital jobs playbook. This playbook aims to boost the creation of digital jobs within the state. Additionally, an action plan will be developed to facilitate the internalization of reforms concerning the ‘Right of Way’.

Osasuyi Dirisu, Director of the Policy Innovation Centre at NESG, highlighted the workshop’s importance and stressed the significance of public awareness and advocacy regarding these essential interventions. He emphasized that such efforts are crucial to promote wider adoption of digital economy initiatives and programs.

As the two-day workshop concluded, there was a shared sense of optimism and commitment among the stakeholders. The collaboration between public and private sectors, as well as the involvement of government agencies and development organizations, showcased the nation’s determination to unlock the potential of its digital economy fully.

The strategies developed during the workshop hold the promise of ushering in a new era of digital transformation, job creation, and economic prosperity for Lagos State.