Nigerian Power Sector and Government Lag Behind in Digital Resilience, NESG Warns
At a biennial lecture in Lagos organized by the Chartered Institute of Directors, the CEO of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Tayo Aduloju, raised concerns over the slow pace of digital adoption by electricity distribution companies (DisCos) and government institutions. Despite over two decades of exposure to digital technologies, both sectors still lag behind their private sector counterparts in digital resilience and adaptation.
Aduloju emphasized that industries such as banking, consumer goods, and media have shown moderate to high levels of digital preparedness due to the pressures of operating in digitally dynamic environments. In contrast, public utilities and government agencies remain behind in implementing modern digital infrastructure, such as smart meters and integrated energy systems, which are essential for efficiency and accountability.
He warned that this digital inertia is dangerous, especially considering that government systems are frequent targets of cyberattacks. Globally, 58% of government operations are under continuous digital threat, yet Nigeria’s public sector remains the slowest actor in terms of building digital resilience. Aduloju stressed the urgent need for the government to digitize its operations fully and proactively defend against cybersecurity risks.
The NESG chief also highlighted that organizations are generally underprepared to deal with major cyber threats, especially in an age increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence. He advised that companies must train experienced professionals and incorporate younger digital-savvy individuals into their leadership to keep pace with evolving threats and technological advancements.
Supporting this call, the Chairman of the event, Anthony Idigbe, stated that digital resilience enhances accountability and enables efficient service delivery, particularly in the AI era. Meanwhile, the Chartered Institute of Directors’ President, Tijjani Borodo, unveiled a new logo and celebrated achievements made during his tenure, encouraging the next administration to further institutional growth and digital transformation.
Source: Punch