Gideon Abegunrin, a data expert based in the United Kingdom, underscored the significant impact open data can have on fostering sustainable development in Nigeria during the recent Niger Delta Digital Summit.
He emphasized the importance of investing in open data protection and ensuring productive utilization by policymakers to harness the vast benefits available to developing countries like Nigeria.
Abegunrin noted that with the growing recognition of data as the “new oil” and the opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, leveraging open data is crucial for sustainable development in Nigeria.
The global reputation of open data for improving transparency, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth was highlighted by Abegunrin.
He pointed out its potential to enhance public services, decision-making processes, and overall accountability.
By effectively harnessing open data, Nigeria can unlock its potential for sustainable development and align with the worldwide push towards a more transparent and innovative future.
However, Abegunrin stressed that for open data to truly propel sustainable development, it must be responsibly managed and made accessible to all stakeholders, from policymakers to the general public.
“The evolution in data perception has positioned it as the new oil in contemporary times. The Fourth Industrial Revolution offers us the chance to leverage open data specifically for sustainable development, especially in countries like Nigeria,” stated Abegunrin.
Highlighting that an open data system reduces room for corruption and inefficiencies, he emphasized the accountability citizens can enforce on public officials and the informed decisions policymakers can make with reliable data.
“Open data plays a pivotal role in monitoring environmental changes and devising strategies to combat global warming and climate change,” he added.
Meanwhile, Olaniyi Adigun, the Chairman of the Aviation Ground Handling Association of Nigeria, emphasized the necessity of credible data to overcome the challenges confronting the aviation industry in the country.
Speaking at a recent gathering of aviation stakeholders in Lagos, Adigun lamented the sector’s inadequate recognition as a critical business compared to other regions.
He also underscored the importance of collaboration and consolidation in the pursuit of prosperity within the Nigerian aviation sector.