Mr. Tim Akano, MD/CEO of New Horizons Solutions Nigeria Limited, the foremost provider of IT training in Nigeria has suggested a series of policy initiatives that are aimed at accelerating innovations that will help build a sustainable future for Nigeria.
Speaking at the Digivation Future Summit, organized by Digivation Networks in Lagos yesterday, Tim believes that these policies when implemented hold significant potential to empower the nation’s young population and address critical challenges.
According to him, the cornerstone of the policy should be focused on education, inspired by Singapore’s model, where Nigeria will provide free internet access in schools, fostering digital literacy from a young age. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and equip students with the skills needed for a tech-driven future. Additionally, the curriculum will be reformed to emphasize practical problem-solving skills like coding, entrepreneurship, and design thinking.
“Recognizing the importance of nurturing innovative ideas, the government should establish a dedicated department for innovation promotion. This department will bridge the gap between innovators and potential investors, helping bring ideas to market and ensuring Nigerian innovation can compete globally. Israel’s successful model of promoting products on the world stage serves as an inspiration for this initiative,” he noted.
His thoughts:
- Supporting startups, the lifeblood of innovation is another key focus. The government should introduce policies to provide startups with access to funding, mentorship, and crucial resources. This could take the form of government-backed venture funds, tax breaks for investors, and incubator programs offering infrastructure and networking opportunities.
- Economic stability is crucial for fostering innovation. The government should draw valuable lessons from Dubai’s model, known for its focus on job security and economic diversification. This may involve implementing labor laws that protect workers while also promoting entrepreneurship – a strategy that attracts both local and foreign investment.
- To further incentivize innovation, tax breaks or grants should be offered to businesses investing in research and development, or creating innovative products and services. This measure not only encourages existing businesses to innovate but also attracts new ventures that can contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.
- Understanding the importance of responsible online behavior, the government should plans for regulated internet access for minors. Limited usage – possibly three hours a day for those under 18 – aims to balance the benefits of digital learning with online safety. This approach encourages responsible digital citizenship from a young age.
- Cross-sector collaboration is another pillar of the new strategy. Policies should be integrated across education, technology, and economic development, ensuring alignment and mutual reinforcement. For instance, policies promoting digital literacy in education should be paired with technology policies guaranteeing access to digital tools. In contrast, economic policies create opportunities to utilize these skills in the workforce.
- The government should recognize the need for adaptable regulatory frameworks. Regulations will be flexible enough to keep pace with technological advancements without stifling innovation. This includes creating a regulatory environment that embraces emerging sectors like fintech, agritech, and renewable energy.
- To further foster a vibrant innovation ecosystem, tech hubs and innovation centers should be established. These hubs will serve as incubators for new ideas, providing the infrastructure and resources for innovation to flourish. They will also facilitate partnerships between academia, industry and government.
- Finally, the government should acknowledge the importance of robust digital infrastructure. Investments in building and expanding high-speed internet, data centers, and mobile networks will be prioritized. This infrastructure will enhance connectivity and enable new business models and services that drive economic growth.
Tim believes these policies are a significant step towards a more innovative and sustainable future for Nigeria. However, successful implementation will be crucial. The ability to overcome past challenges like inadequate funding and inconsistent policy enforcement will determine the ultimate impact of these initiatives.
