The House of Representatives Committee Chairman on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cyber-security, Adedeji Dhikrullahi Olajide, and digital expert and convener of Ibadan Tech-Expo 2024, Danjuma Balogun, have said data, digital, and artificial intelligence is the next oil, calling on the youths to embrace technological and innovation knowledge.

They made the call during the Ibadan Tech Expo 2024 which was held at the International Conference Centre (ICC), University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan.

The programme, which was supported by the Oyo State Government and Beulah Adeoye Foundation, attracted thousands of youths, digital companies, and other stakeholders in the digital world.

“One thing we have identified in almost every technology that you have today, there are risk factors and you also have to mitigate those risks. So once you identify the risk, you have to come up with a legislative framework that will allow you to mitigate that risk. So if it’s all about data, you have to tell people, give them the data structure of how they are going to be interacting with data.

“As the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology, and Cybersecurity, I am committed to promoting ICT development in Nigeria.

“The role of legislation in ICT development cannot be overstated. Our committee has been working tirelessly to ensure Nigeria’s laws keep pace with technological advancements.

“Oyo State has demonstrated its commitment to ICT excellence, leveraging technology to drive economic growth and development.

“Initiatives such as the Tech-Hub and Entrepreneurship Development Centre, Oyo State ICT Management Information Center, and digital literacy programs have yielded positive results.

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“Driving technological innovation in Oyo State requires a multi-faceted approach underpinned by effective legislation. I urge all stakeholders to join hands with us”.

On his part, Balogun said: “We are trying to bring everybody together. You can see so many tech companies here. It all started from Ibadan. So basically, it’s just like our own expo for them so that everybody can come together.“