Senator Ayodele Arise, a former federal lawmaker and pioneer in Nigeria’s tech space, says the Tinubu administration is laying the groundwork for a full-scale digital economy through strategic and accelerated deployment of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
According to Arise, Nigeria’s most consequential transformation isn’t taking place in oil blocs or legislative chambers, but across digital ecosystems — in innovation hubs, coding bootcamps, startup incubators, and data-driven governance platforms.
Appearing on Arise TV’s The Morning Show over the weekend, the All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain described the administration’s digital push as “bold, focused, and transformative,” praising what he sees as a new frontier of governance driven by innovation.
“This government is using ICT in ways we’ve never experienced before,” Arise said. “From financial transparency to targeted welfare delivery and national security, technology is no longer just a buzzword — it’s becoming the backbone of modern Nigeria.”
Arise cited significant gains: biometric identification systems like NIN now ensure that social welfare reaches the right people; government spending is tracked in real-time; and surveillance drones are being deployed to strengthen security operations.
“Before, it was a challenge to know who genuinely needed support. Now, with NIN, poor Nigerians can be properly identified and supported,” he explained. “That’s real impact.”
Beyond governance, the digital shift is also unlocking economic potential. Arise highlighted a wave of youth-led innovation, with Nigerian developers building tech solutions and earning income from international companies — without ever leaving the country.
“We’re seeing young Nigerians making apps and working remotely for global firms. They’re being paid in dollars. A quiet but profound transformation is taking place.”
Despite these advancements, Arise warned that sustaining momentum requires legislative will. Drawing from his experience as former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Privatization, he urged the National Assembly to create a more enabling environment for local tech growth.
“We need clear, time-bound laws — like mandating license approvals within 90 days — and incentives for local manufacturing and innovation,” he said.
He pointed to previous policy wins, such as the rise of Nigerian computer manufacturer Zinox, as proof that bold legislative action can stimulate domestic tech ecosystems.
“This isn’t about shielding local firms from competition. It’s about building competitiveness. We can’t talk about a digital economy while importing 90% of our technology.”
Arise closed with a broader message: the future of Nigeria must be built on private enterprise, not dependence on government or oil.
“In the U.S., small businesses drive the economy. That’s what we need here — policies that empower entrepreneurs and innovators,” he said. “Government can lead, but enterprise must drive.”
In an era defined by economic uncertainty and security threats, Senator Arise offers a different vision — one rooted in digital possibility, backed by policy, and powered by a generation ready to code Nigeria into a more prosperous future.
