Governor of Zamfara State, His Excellency, Governor Dauda Lawal led an high powered delegation to the three day ongoing Digital Government Africa Summit in Lusaka, Zambia, where he delivered a compelling keynote address emphasizing the critical role of digitization in enhancing governance. During his opening remarks at the Ciela Resort Hotel, Dr Lawal was joined by notable leaders, including His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, along with several key government figures such as Hon. JJ Mwiimbu, the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Percy Chinyama, the National Coordinator of the SMART Zambia Institute, Hon. Felix Mutati (MP), Minister of Technology and Science, and Hon. Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Minister of Finance and National Planning.
In his address, Governor Lawal outlined Zamfara’s impressive journey towards digital transformation, detailing the establishment of a robust digital governance ecosystem that fosters innovative public service platforms aimed at increasing transparency, operational efficiency and active citizen engagement. He articulated the vision of Zamfara State as a pioneer in digital innovation across Africa, highlighting the state’s commitment to creating an inclusive development model.
During his keynote, Governor Lawal stated, “Across the continent, the digital revolution is steadily dismantling archaic methods of operation and forging new pathways for e-governance, trade, and investment opportunities.” He underscored that technology has become integral to modern governance, serving as the infrastructure that underpins institutions, enhances educational systems, optimizes security frameworks, and drives economic productivity. He illustrated how every sector now hinges on the dual foundations of data and connectivity, which are essential for effective governance in today’s digital age.
The governor further informed the audience that the Federal Republic of Nigeria has made significant strides toward this digital evolution through the implementation of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, overseen by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). He noted that this policy is pivotal in informing how technology interweaves with governance, industry, and innovation across the country. He shared that Zamfara State has aligned its strategic vision with this national directive by adopting a bold, homegrown reform agenda that prioritizes technology-centered governance and public service delivery. “For us in Zamfara State,” he emphasized, “digital transformation redefines how our government interacts with and serves its citizens. We envision governance that is present, intelligent, responsive, and guided by data.”
Highlighting tangible advancements, Governor Lawal showcased the innovative e-GovConnect platform, developed by the Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency. This platform automates numerous internal processes, reduces bureaucratic red tape, and facilitates faster policy execution. He noted that e-GovConnect has significantly streamlined decision-making, enhanced inter-agency cooperation, and bolstered financial accountability across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
In addition, Governor Lawal discussed the state’s digital literacy initiative, outlining its commitment to nurturing a digitally literate populace. He elaborated on diverse programs aimed at equipping young students with coding skills in schools, training public servants in data management, and empowering entrepreneurs with knowledge in e-commerce and financial technology. He stated, “By democratizing access to digital skills, we are fostering an environment where every citizen can actively contribute to the emerging economy.” To further this mission, the state has established the Zamfara Institute of Information Technology (ZIIT), a specialized institution dedicated to advanced studies in disciplines such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Blockchain, Game Development, and Data Analytics.
In recognition of these initiatives, President Hichilema congratulated Governor Dauda Lawal for spearheading Nigeria’s first state-level digital literacy program, the Zamfara Digital Literacy Framework (ZDLF), which positions Zamfara as a beacon of digital transformation. He expressed his eagerness to foster partnerships with Nigeria to leverage its abundant resources in harnessing a digital revolution that enhances governance delivery and functionality across the region.
