Odidiomo Urges Swift Tech Development in Africa to Close Global Digital Divide
In a powerful address at the Big Data Expo in Shanghai, China, Hon. Adedeji Olajide, Chairman of the House Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology, and Cyber-Security, highlighted the critical need to bridge the technology gap between Africa and the rest of the world.
Speaking on the sidelines of a seminar on Cybersecurity for Belt and Road countries, Olajide emphasized that this divide poses significant challenges to global economic development, innovation, and cybersecurity.
Olajide acknowledged Africa’s strides in mobile penetration, internet adoption, and digital innovation. However, he pointed out that the continent still lags in essential areas like infrastructure development, digital literacy, and access to advanced technologies.
According to him, these deficiencies hinder Africa’s potential to compete on a global scale and to fully harness the benefits of the digital age.
To address these challenges, Olajide proposed a comprehensive strategy focused on robust investment in digital infrastructure, including broadband connectivity, data centers, and network security.
He also stressed the importance of education and training programs in key areas such as coding, data analysis, and cybersecurity, as well as the need to support innovation hubs, incubators, and accelerators to nurture a thriving startup ecosystem.
Furthermore, Olajide called for increased investment in threat intelligence, incident response, and digital forensic capabilities.
He advocated for stronger partnerships between governments, private sector stakeholders, and international organizations to facilitate knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and joint research initiatives.
Highlighting the economic and strategic importance of closing the technology divide, Olajide noted that Africa’s digital economy is projected to grow by 15% annually over the next decade.
With over 400 innovation hubs across the continent—led by Nigeria, South Africa, and Egypt—Africa is poised to become a significant player in the global tech landscape. However, the lawmaker also warned that cybersecurity threats currently cost Africa’s economy over $2 billion annually, making the need for enhanced tech development even more pressing.
Hon. Adedeji Olajide, serving his second term in the National Assembly, concluded by asserting that bridging the technology divide is not just a moral obligation but an economic necessity with far-reaching implications for global growth and innovation.
