ATCON to honour Obaseki for reforms in Edo’s technology sector Dec 6

The Association of Telecommunications Companies in Nigeria (ATCON) is set to honour Godwin Obaseki, former Edo state governor, for his reforms in the state’s digital and technology sector on December 6, 2024.

According to ATCON on Monday, the award celebrates Obaseki’s pioneering reforms, which have propelled Edo “to the forefront of digital innovation in governance”.

Tony Emoekpere, president of ATCON, said Obaseki was nominated as the ‘Digital Governor of the Year’ due to his achievements in the state.

Emoekpere said he superintended over the launch of the state’s digital policy and the data centre — “which is the first data centre owned by a regional government in Nigeria”.

He said the ex-governor’s administration also transitioned the state’s public and civil service from an archaic, analogue system to a fully digitised and seamless operation — with all local government areas connected via fibre optics.

“We are thrilled to recognize your outstanding contributions to the digital landscape of Edo State, earning you the esteemed title of Digital Governor,” ATCON said in a letter addressed to the former governor.

“Your visionary leadership has propelled the state to the forefront of digital innovation, and we are honored to celebrate your achievements at ATCON’s 31st anniversary celebration which is scheduled to take place on Friday, December 6, 2024, in Lagos by 6 pm. Your tireless efforts have yielded remarkable results.”

Speaking on specific innovations, ATCON said Edo’s e-governance platform has streamlined various government operations, such as e-protocols, procurement, education, healthcare, e-petitions, and internal processes.

The group said by digitising these services and making them easily accessible online, the platform enhances transparency and encourages public participation in governance.

The 3-tier data center and automation, digital skills and innovation, technology in agriculture, the Edo basic education sector transformation (EdoBEST) programme, and the geographic information system (GIS), were other initiatives the group highlighted.

The association commended Obaseki for his commitment to digital excellence, adding it has set a benchmark for other states to emulate.

ATCON also lauded the former governor’s efforts in establishing a digitally advanced state, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

Crusoe Osagie, media adviser to Godwin Obaseki, ex-governor of Edo, has criticised Monday Okpebholo, governor of the state, over the “review” of the e-governance platform.

On November 25, media reports said Monday Okpebholo, governor of the state, shut down the e-governance platform, ordering civil servants to revert to the use of papers for communication.