5th December, 2024
The Lagos State Government has unveiled the “Lagos Digital Service Platform,” a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing governance by promoting accessibility, transparency, and efficiency.
Speaking at the launch during the Art of Technology Lagos 6.0, themed “AI and the Lagos Digital Economy,” at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, emphasised that the platform would bridge the gap between government and residents, fostering trust and delivering impactful services.
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed that his administration was committed to modernity, inclusivity, and innovation through the Vision 2052 agenda.
“This long-term development plan focused on creating a thriving economy powered by innovation, building smart infrastructure, ensuring effective governance, and adopting a people-centred approach to leave no one behind,” he stated.
He highlighted Lagos as Nigeria’s economic nerve centre and Africa’s leading technology hub, noting that the state hosted over 60% of the nation’s tech startups, supported by accelerators, incubators, and global tech giants.
In 2023, Lagos-based startups raised over $1.2 billion, accounting for 75% of Nigeria’s total startup investments.
Sanwo-Olu also pointed to the Enterprise Architecture Project as a critical step in harmonising data systems to support AI-driven service delivery.
He called for collaboration among policymakers, educators, and innovators to shape Lagos’ journey into the AI future.
Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr Tunbosun Alake, elaborated on the state’s preparations for a digital future.
He noted that the Lagos State Innovation Bill had fostered an environment for AI research and development, incentivised startups, and integrated AI education into the curriculum.
“Lagos was uniquely positioned to capture a significant share of Artificial Intelligence growth,” Alake remarked, adding that the state had worked with stakeholders to develop ethical and regulatory frameworks for responsible AI deployment.
Alake also highlighted AI’s potential to revolutionise key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and transportation. He cited examples like predictive analytics improving crop yields and AI-driven insights optimising transportation systems.
Technology expert Olugbolahan Olusanya commended the government’s initiative, emphasising the untapped potential of Lagos’ youthful population in advancing AI. He urged the state to invest in infrastructure to maximise AI’s benefits.
The launch of the Lagos Digital Service Platform underscored the government’s commitment to leveraging emerging technologies to drive sustainable urban development and position Lagos as a global technology leader.
