Ogun Head of Service Applauds Governor Abiodun for Digital Transformation in Public Service
Ogun State has firmly embraced technology as a pivotal driver of development, positioning itself as a model for sub-national digital transformation across Nigeria. The Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, made this assertion while declaring open a two-day Executive Strategic Retreat on AI Leadership and Digital Transformation. This event was organized by the State Government in collaboration with GFA Technologies and supported by the United States Consulate General, targeting top echelons in the Civil and Public Service. Mr. Onasanya extended gratitude to Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun for championing such innovative efforts.
Forward-Looking Governance and AI Integration
Speaking at the Tech hub on Kobape Road in Abeokuta, the Head of Service described Governor Abiodun as a forward-looking leader making significant strides in the state's overall development. He emphasized that the administration places a high priority on innovation and digital transformation, which are central to its governance approach. This is evident in numerous forward-looking initiatives that are redefining service delivery within the Civil and Public Service sectors.
Mr. Onasanya highlighted the state's vision to utilize artificial intelligence as a key platform in vital sectors, showcasing a clear policy direction toward modernization. The government has consistently invested in systems designed to enhance efficiency and accountability. He stated, "This retreat is a direct product of that vision, as it reflects a leadership that understands the urgency of adapting to global technological shifts and also reflects confidence in the capacity of the Civil Service to evolve. We deeply acknowledge this support and recognise the responsibility it places on us to deliver results."
Addressing Operational Challenges and Promoting Solutions
During the retreat, Mr. Onasanya reminded participants of the necessity to honestly assess the realities of the current operational environment. He identified barriers to efficiency, including delays in file movement, inefficiencies in memo processing, and challenges in accessing reliable data for decision-making. He argued that a modern government cannot rely on fragmented systems in an era defined by integration and automation. The demands of the time require tools that match the complexity of governance, which is why the retreat was designed to provide solutions to these day-to-day operational challenges.
He enumerated several bold steps the state has taken toward AI applications, such as:
- The launch of the Ogun Learning Enhancement and Academic Resource Network, known as OgunLearn.
- The introduction of AI-enabled lesson planning tools and digital learning management systems within the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.
- The development of the Ogun State Spatial Data Infrastructure, which provides a centralized platform for managing and sharing geospatial data across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, thereby improving coordination and transparency.
Encouraging Innovation and Collaboration
The Head of Service urged participants, including Permanent Secretaries, the Accountant General, Auditors General, Director General, Principals General, Headmasters General, and the Chief Medical Director, among others, to champion expected innovations. He called for the removal of institutional barriers by creating an enabling environment where new ideas can thrive. Participants were encouraged to engage actively in the training, share experiences constructively, and approach the retreat with openness to new ideas.
Partnerships and Participant Feedback
Mr. Adebola Omololu, Convener and Chief Executive Officer of GFA Technologies, in his welcome address, noted that top government functionaries attended the retreat to build solutions aimed at improving operations and boosting Internally Generated Revenue across all MDAs in Ogun State. He praised the state for its promptness, high level of seriousness, organization, and preparedness to learn new innovations, expressing high satisfaction with its performance.
Adding his voice, Mr. Tunji Oke, representing the American Consulate, mentioned that the training venue, the American Corner, was established to strengthen partnerships and leadership while providing AI innovation and specialization.
In separate interviews, participants expressed appreciation for the initiative. Mrs. Lydia Fajounbo from the Bureau of Establishments and Training, Dr. Rotimiolu Akinlesi from Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr. Olayinka Elemide from the Hospitals Management Board, Mr. Olusegun Olaotan from the Ministry of Justice, and Engr. Kehinde Akintomide from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investments all acknowledged that the training would enhance their day-to-day activities, particularly in revenue generation and blocking leakages.
Other participants, including Dr. Olubunmi Fatungase, CMD of OOUTH, Mrs. Feyisara Bolarinwa-Adebowale, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, and Mr. Oluseye Ige, Principal General of Egba Division, noted that the training provided an excellent opportunity to leverage good service delivery through improved data collection, collation, and analysis, which will help enhance existing e-platforms across all MDAs.
