By Ken Afor
President Bola Tinubu has emphasized that the lack of comprehensive data is the primary technological challenge impeding Nigeria’s progress and Africa as a whole.
This was disclosed at the 2023 conference organized by the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) in Lagos.
The conference had the theme, ”Leveraging Data Analytics for Secure and Efficient Trade Facilitation in Customs Operations.”
According to the President, who was represented by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, Nigeria’s ability to make informed decisions has been hindered by the insufficiency of data, leading to a cycle of missed opportunities and subpar outcomes.
He further stated that the nation’s progress had been impeded by the advent of the fourth industrial revolution.
“Every part of the world is at the mercy of data, and every day we are reminded of the expanding volume of data upon which our divisions must be rooted.
“Data is the life guiding the ever-evolving landscape of our modern world. It is this realization which sounds like the invaluable goal of this century, that prompted Tinubu’s strategic placement of tech-savvy Nigerians in critical positions in the government.
“These appointments ensure not only strategic planning but also the cultivation of Nigeria as a hub of refined minds in the global knowledge economy.
“We must not only commit to deploying data to make decisions within the government but also to address the historical inadequacies of Nigerian policymaking, often impeded by a lack of comprehensive data,” he said.
He emphasized that the present state of governance necessitates a revolutionary intervention, and it is the proposed solutions that have united us all here today, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
“The integration of complex data to interpret the volumes of our transitions and interactions is even more needed in international trade because the dividends transcend the determination of revenues.
“Data provides the sharpest links for us to connect the dots. Even in establishing the security of our borders, we can easily determine the traffic of people and goods around a specific border and share indisputable information with other nations with just a punch on our computers,” he said.
The customs service plays a crucial role in various aspects such as revenue collection, national and international trade participation, and safeguarding the country’s borders from the influx of illegal items, among other responsibilities, according to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the NCS has acknowledged its responsibility in utilizing cutting-edge technology as a powerful catalyst and facilitator to foster innovation and enhance its capacity and capability, ultimately propelling the service to a highly esteemed position.
He further stated that the NCS would engage in competition and comparison with other services of equivalent caliber globally, leveraging advanced technology.
“For the country to achieve the N1 trillion Gross Domestic Product (GDP) target of President Tinubu between now and 2030, the NCS must play a critical role by leveraging technology in data analysis.
“They should be able to form a well-thought-out decision after analysis, which is critical and germane,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu added that Lagos State will persist in creating a conducive atmosphere for commerce and additionally contribute more than 70 percent of revenue to the state government via the NCS.
Meanwhile, the NCS was urged by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, to incorporate data into their operations as planning without data is impossible.
Ogunwusi requested the controller general to contribute to Lagos, the source of 70% of their revenue made from the state.
Earlier, Adewale Adeniyi, the CGC of Customs, highlighted that the selection of the conference theme was strategically aligned with the urgent needs of modern society and governance.
He emphasized that in an era dominated by information and digital advancements, the importance of data analytics in customs operations cannot be emphasized enough.
“This theme places a spotlight on the indispensable role of technology in trade facilitation, ensuring that our discussions transcend mere theory, rooting themselves firmly in actionable insights.
“So, we therefore welcome you to a conversation where innovation meets implementation and worlds evolve into driving forces committed to positive change,” he said.
He added that the service was dedicated to employing precise data management techniques in order to enhance security and commerce.
“Just as Lagos will never sleep, NCS will remain sleepless until they meet their goal of integrating and streamlining their operations to international standards.
