In a significant address, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has declared that the strategic use of technology is a fundamental catalyst for achieving success at a national level. He made these remarks during a meeting with the management of Renaissance Africa Energy Company in Abuja on Tuesday.
Digital Transformation as a National Priority
Dr. Tunji-Ojo, receiving a delegation led by the company's Managing Director, Chief Tony Attah, commended the firm for its adoption of cutting-edge solutions like automation. He described technology as the engine driving modern business ambitions and, by extension, national development.
The Minister used the opportunity to showcase the Ministry of Interior's own ongoing digital revolution. He detailed key achievements under the present administration's 'Renewed Hope' agenda, which he frames as a 'business unusual' approach designed to dismantle old, ineffective systems.
Key Technological Milestones Highlighted
Dr. Tunji-Ojo specifically highlighted three major technological advancements. First, he pointed to the implementation of the Local Content Act, which has been pivotal in fostering knowledge transfer and increasing local participation in vital sectors like exploration and production.
Second, he detailed the complete overhaul of the Nigerian passport system. The system has been transformed from 96 decentralized personalization centers into a single, secure, and highly efficient centralized processing centre. This move aligns the country's passport issuance with global best practices, significantly improving service delivery.
Third, the Minister reiterated the deployment of an Advanced Passenger Information (API) system. This critical tool enables real-time analysis of passenger data, providing a powerful boost to border control capabilities and the overall management of national security.
Commitment to a Better Future
Emphasizing the gravity of the ongoing reforms, Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated, "We may not be responsible for the Nigeria of the past, but we will be judged by the Nigeria we hand over to the next generation." This underscores the administration's commitment to leveraging technology for building a better future.
Earlier in the meeting, Chief Tony Attah of Renaissance Africa Energy Company outlined his company's ambition to lead the drive for energy security in Nigeria and across Africa. He also confirmed that the company currently manages all of Shell Petroleum's onshore assets. Chief Attah reaffirmed the administration's dedication to bold reforms that are reviving the economy, strengthening national security, and restoring international confidence in Nigeria.
The Minister assured that the Ministry of Interior will continue to provide full support to strategic partners and investors, reinforcing the synergy between technological advancement and national progress.
