The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Kogi State Chapter, has emphasized the critical role of government in driving digital transformation and industrial intelligence during its April 2026 monthly webinar held virtually on Thursday via Zoom.

The webinar, themed “Accelerating Industrial Intelligence: The Role of Government,” featured the Director-General of the Kogi State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (KICTDA), Dr. Bashir S. Tenuche, as the guest speaker.

The session commenced with the recitation of the Nigerian National Pledge and an introduction of participants, including ICT professionals, academics, and stakeholders from within and outside Kogi State, by the State Chairman, C.itp Godwin Sani, the host, who also read the citation of the guest speaker.

In his presentation, Dr. Tenuche described industrial intelligence as the integration of data, advanced algorithms, and real-time connectivity to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency across industries. He noted that technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT), and big data are driving a new wave of industrial transformation globally.

According to him, industrial intelligence goes beyond automation, focusing instead on intelligent systems capable of making data-driven decisions, often with minimal human intervention. He stressed that this transformation presents a unique opportunity for developing economies like Nigeria to leapfrog traditional industrial development stages.

“For too long, industrial revolutions have passed many developing regions by. But with digital technologies, we now have the opportunity not just to catch up, but to move ahead,” he said.

Dr. Tenuche highlighted key applications of industrial intelligence, including predictive maintenance, supply chain optimization, autonomous systems, and energy management. He explained that these innovations can improve productivity, reduce operational costs, and enhance sustainability.

However, the guest speaker identified major challenges hindering adoption, such as cybersecurity risks, reliance on legacy systems, high implementation costs, and a significant skills gap. He emphasized the need for continuous digital upskilling to prepare the workforce for emerging technologies.

Speaking on the role of government, the KICTDA boss described government as an enabler rather than a regulator of innovation. He called for increased investment in digital infrastructure such as broadband, data centers, and secure cloud systems, alongside policies that encourage collaboration between public and private sectors.

“Government must create an environment where innovation can thrive, where ideas become enterprises, and where technology benefits everyone, not just a few,” he stated.

He also stressed the importance of digital inclusion, noting that access to opportunities in technology should not be limited by geography. According to him, empowering youth and women through digital literacy and technical education is essential for sustainable growth.

During the interactive session, participants raised concerns about infrastructure deficits, particularly power supply, broadband access, and data management. In response, Dr. Tenuche acknowledged ongoing efforts by the state government to explore renewable energy solutions and develop data infrastructure, including potential partnerships for data center development.

He further revealed that initiatives such as digital proof-of-life verification for pensioners and data-driven planning across sectors like health and education are being explored, though adoption remains a major challenge.

“Awareness and willingness are growing, but adoption is still slow. We must be deliberate, patient, and consistent in driving this transformation,” he added.

Other contributors at the webinar, including the NCS National Chairman, Conferences Committee, Dr. Bayo Mohammed Onimode, FNCS, commended the NCS Kogi State Chapter for its consistency in organizing knowledge-sharing platforms and called for greater collaboration between government and professional bodies to advance ICT development in the state.

The webinar, equally attended by the SSA on Surveillance to Kogi State Governor, Hon. Iweha O. Empire, concluded with a renewed call for stakeholders to embrace innovation, invest in skills development, and work collectively towards building a digitally driven economy.