Adedapo Adesanya
By Adedapo Adesanya
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) will host the Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning, Mrs Zainab Ahmed, at a webinar on Thursday, July 23 to discuss leveraging data in driving improved governance.
The event themed Leveraging Data to Drive Inclusive Policy, Revenue Generation & Improved Governance will be done in partnership with Softcom Limited, an indigenous and innovative technology company.
It will see the minister feature alongside the Statistician-General of Nigeria and CEO of NBS, Mr Yemi Kale, as keynote speakers
They will be joined by distinguished panellists such as Special adviser to the President on Finance and Economy & former Central Bank of Nigeria Deputy Governor, Mrs Sarah Alade; Country Director at the World Bank, Mr Shubham Chaudhuri; Director General at the Budget Office of the Federation, Mr Ben Akabueze; President of the Nigerian Statistical Association, Mr Sidney Onyeagu; Mr Jania Okwechime, Associate Director in Risk Advisory & The West Africa Data Analytics Leader, Deloitte and Chief Operating Officer at Softcom, Mr Seindemi Olobayo.
The webinar will explore the methods of data collection and analysis together with their cross-sector usage.
It is also an opportunity for public-private assessment of existing technological innovations and solutions that can assist to accelerate the achievement of Nigeria’s Sustainable Development Goals.
The assembled panellists will discuss how informed data gathering processes can lead to economic growth and greater tax collection for the federation while addressing persistent inequalities.
Significantly, the webinar will explore locally relevant and globally acclaimed data collection tools that factor in the uniqueness of Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa in terms of network connectivity, literacy, and human management.
Speaking ahead of the event, Mr Kale said, “Nigeria can attain its full potential. One of such is getting our data right and leveraging that data to inform policy and decisions.
“However, before data can be leveraged towards any meaningful use, both internal and external users must be able to trust the data and ensure that the data is used in ways that reinforce public trust. NBS is aware of the critical role it can play in building trust and improving the efficiency of government interventions.”
On his part, Mr Yemi Onagoruwa, VP, Softcom Public Sector noted that: “This event is a fine opportunity to explore existing technological innovation and solutions that can help fast-track inclusive policies, revenue generation and improved governance.
“The ability to make effective decisions is necessary for any government organization’s continued existence in today’s turbulent and highly unpredictable environment. I look forward to the conversations and insights that will arise from this webinar. I hope you will join us.”
The event is scheduled for 11 am and will hold via Zoom call. Interested parties can join through this registration link.
