How Technology Can Solve Nigeria’s insecurity, Unemployment – Pantami

ILESANMI OLUKEMI MOTUNRAYO

Nigeria’s challenges, particularly insecurity and unemployment, can be effectively addressed through the deployment of technology, strong policy frameworks, and reliable infrastructure.

This was the submission of the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa-Ali Pantami, has said that while speaking on Monday in Gombe, during the launch of a compendium documenting 241 legacy projects and over 700 employment opportunities recorded during his tenure as Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency and later as minister.

He argued that the country has entered an era driven by digital innovation and artificial intelligence, stressing that technology remains central to solving socio-economic challenges in Nigeria.

Pantami stressed that the world is now in the era of the fourth industrial revolution, driven largely by digital technology and artificial intelligence.

“This era is all about technology, particularly digital technology and, most importantly, artificial intelligence.

“I strongly believe that there is a solution to every challenge we have in Nigeria in technology,” he said.

Reiterating the role of technology in governance, Pantami said many of the projects executed under his leadership were designed to address insecurity, unemployment, and educational gaps.

According to Punch, the former Minister also highlighted the establishment of digital centres equipped with internet access, modern software, and cybersecurity systems to empower youths and support security agencies.

Pantami maintained that Nigeria’s challenges could be addressed through the right mix of technology, policy, and strategic implementation, urging leaders to focus on measurable impact.

He expressed confidence that technology-driven initiatives by both state and federal governments would continue to support education, security, and economic growth in Nigeria.

The former minister, who is aspiring to be Gombe State governor, challenged political office seekers to emulate his approach by showcasing concrete achievements rather than making promises.

“I am not going to the people with empty promises, but with a scorecard. If you want to present yourself for anything, come with your scorecard and show that you have been tested and trusted,” he said.

The former minister, who served as Director-General of NITDA from 2016 to 2019 and later as minister from 2019 to 2023, said his record in office remained open for public scrutiny.

He emphasised that despite years in government, he had not been invited or indicted by any anti-corruption agency.

“Through the protection of the Almighty, we served for years in government, and we have never been invited by any institution for any corrupt practice,” Pantami said.

He continued, “It is not easy to serve for that long with a clean record without being indicted in any report. We are grateful to God for that.”

Pantami argued that leadership accountability should be anchored on documented performance, noting that his compendium reflected tangible contributions to national development, particularly in technology, education, and job creation.

Pantami further stated that his projects were evenly distributed across the country, ensuring no state was marginalised.

“Justice must be done to every part of the federation. That is exactly what we ensured,” he added.

Testimonies from beneficiaries also highlighted the impact of his initiatives.

One of them, Abubakar Mohammed, said the intervention enabled him to secure an appointment with the Federal University of Kashere.

“I am a lecturer in Educational Foundations. At the moment, I have completed my PhD in Kwara State,” he said.

Another beneficiary, Abubakar Maina, now a staff member of the National Identity Management Commission, commended Pantami for facilitating his employment.