Information Technology is a cornerstone of progress in today’s fast-evolving world. With an illustrious career in IT, both in Nigeria and abroad, Mr. Adedamola Ariyo has become a key figure in driving digital transformation, particularly within the public services sector. In this exclusive interview with Racheal Olatayo, he shares insights into his journey, the challenges and opportunities in the field, and his vision for the future of IT in Nigeria and beyond.

Could you walk us through your professional journey in IT, both in Nigeria and internationally?

My journey in IT started over two decades ago, and it’s been a fascinating ride. I began as an Enterprise Support Analyst in Canada, focusing on supporting large organizations. Later, I expanded my horizons by managing IT infrastructure projects for major corporations like Suncor Energy. When I returned to Nigeria, I embraced opportunities to work in both private startups and public institutions. My career has spanned roles such as Technology Manager, IT Project Manager, and even as a Special Assistant on Technology to the previous Governor of Oyo State. Now I work as a Technology and Telecoms Consultant for the Ondo State Government. Each role has deepened my understanding of how technology can solve complex problems and drive efficiencies.

You’ve had remarkable success. From your perspective, what is the importance of IT in digitizing and enhancing the operational efficiency of Nigeria’s public services?
IT is critical in modernizing public services. Digitization transforms how governments operate, ensuring faster service delivery, greater transparency, and better resource management. For example, through IT solutions, we’ve been able to streamline tax systems, enhance health logistics, and digitize land records. These improvements not only make services more accessible to citizens but also increase trust in governance. The ripple effect on socio-economic growth cannot be overstated.

Despite its potential, IT practice in Nigeria’s public sector faces unique challenges. What would you identify as the key obstacles, particularly compared to advanced economies?
Infrastructure is a significant hurdle. Frequent power outages and limited broadband connectivity slow down IT adoption. Additionally, there is a scarcity of skilled professionals and sometimes reluctance within public institutions to embrace change. Advanced economies, in contrast, benefit from better funding, robust infrastructure, and favorable policies that promote innovation. However, Nigeria and Africa as a whole have immense potential to leapfrog these challenges with strategic investments and partnerships.

Considering that potential, what prospects do you see for IT implementation beyond the public sector in Nigeria? How can the country strategically position itself to capitalize on this?
Beyond the public sector, IT has transformative potential in areas such as finance, education, healthcare, and even agriculture. Fintech, for instance, is already reshaping how Nigerians access financial services. To position itself for future advancements, Nigeria must focus on building IT hubs, fostering partnerships between government and private players, and upskilling its workforce. Regulatory frameworks should also evolve to encourage innovation and protect data security. With these measures, Nigeria can become a hub for digital innovation in Africa.

Reflecting on your extensive career, what would you say has been your greatest professional challenge, and how did you overcome it?
One challenge that stands out was during my time managing IT for a government agency in Nigeria. We were tasked with digitizing their payroll system to eliminate fraud—a process met with significant resistance from various quarters. To address this, I led a comprehensive change management strategy. We conducted stakeholder engagements, provided training, and rolled out the system incrementally to demonstrate its benefits. By fostering trust and delivering results, we successfully transitioned to a fully digital system, saving millions in public funds.

That’s commendable. Are there any specific IT projects you’ve worked on that you feel particularly proud of?
One that comes to mind is the “Safe City Project” in Oyo State, which I led as the Project Team Lead. It was a tech-driven initiative to enhance public safety through real-time surveillance and I developed IT architectural solutions for the project. We integrated AI technologies and collaborated with private partners to ensure reliable connectivity and data management. Our solution provided real-time information to the Joint Task Force, which comprised police, army, and civil defense officers. By utilizing artificial intelligence, the project helped identify abnormalities and discrepancies in crowd behavior and provide timely alerts for security intervention. The project not only improved security but also demonstrated how technology can directly impact citizens’ lives for the better.

Looking ahead, what role do you think IT will play in shaping Nigeria’s future, especially with emerging technologies like AI and IoT?
Emerging technologies will play a transformative role across sectors. AI can enhance decision-making through data analytics, while IoT can revolutionize supply chains and public utilities. For Nigeria, embracing these technologies could mean leaps in productivity and global competitiveness. The focus should be on creating an ecosystem where innovation thrives—through funding, talent development, and collaboration.

Lastly, what advice would you give to young professionals looking to excel in the IT field?
My advice is to remain curious and adaptable. Technology evolves rapidly, and staying relevant requires continuous learning. Develop a problem-solving mindset and seek opportunities to apply your skills to real-world challenges. Most importantly, be patient and resilient. The journey may have its ups and downs, but the rewards are worth it.