THE Professional Leadership Practitioner Institute (PLPI) has stressed the importance of digital leadership in driving Nigeria’s growth, while calling for firm policies, investment in technology and a cultural shift towards embracing digital transformation.

  Speaking at the 2024 yearly conference and fellowship investiture, Prof. Jacob Ayantayo, who was the guest speaker, noted the potential of digital leadership to drive growth, enhance governance, and position Nigeria as a competitive player globally.

  Ayantayo added that given the role cybersecurity plays in the digital space, the government should implement robust measures and invest in technology that safeguards sensitive information against hacking, fraud, and cybercrime.

  He said: “The Nigerian banking sector’s adoption of digital payment solutions like mobile banking is commendable, but leaders must ensure these platforms are secure and protect customers from identity theft and financial loss. Continuous education on best practices for personal online security is also crucial.

  “Protecting personal data is paramount, especially with the rapid adoption of digital platforms across finance, healthcare, and education sectors. Leaders must adhere to ethical privacy guidelines, ensuring user data is collected, stored, and processed securely in compliance with regulations like the Nigerian Data Protection Regulation (NDPR).

  “Transparency is essential, and digital leaders must prioritise openness about how data is used and obtain informed consent from users. This is critical in an environment where cybersecurity threats are prevalent, and citizens may be unaware of the potential risks to their personal information.”

  He stated that the leaders must promote inclusivity and ensure equal access to digital resources across all sectors of society, bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas, and urging them to actively work toward providing affordable internet access and digital education.
  Also speaking, the Director of Corporate Affairs programmes and Communications of the Institute, Dr Fyneray Mbata, emphasises the importance of embracing technology while acknowledging its potential drawbacks.

  He noted drawbacks such as job displacement, cybersecurity risks, and digital dependence, urging the government to take pragmatic steps to ensure that digital challenges and innovations are properly used for the good of all.