Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salis, who represents Ogun Central, has advocated for the creation of a national digital database to enhance governan...
Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salis, who represents Ogun Central, has advocated for the creation of a national digital database to enhance governance, safeguard small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) against cyber risks, and establish a framework for responsible business development.
At the 2025 National Convention of the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Abeokuta Muslim Alumni Association (MAPAMA) on Sunday, Salis, who serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, mentioned that the digital transformation of government services and the merging of national databases would offer clear regulations, minimize corruption, and help businesses function more effectively.
"Our laws remain outdated in the digital age. This legislation will provide legal validity to digital signatures, require the digitization of government services, and establish a centralized national database that connects different agencies while maintaining custody rights," he stated.
Salis stated that three major legislative initiatives—the Startup Act, the Cybercrime Act, and the National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill—were created to support entrepreneurs, safeguard vital information systems, and update Nigeria's commercial landscape.
"Entrepreneurs are unable to create ethical and growing businesses in a setting where the rules constantly change. A single digital system guarantees data accuracy, allows access to services from any location, minimizes corruption, and offers a stable base for companies to succeed," Salis stated.
He also encouraged small and medium enterprises along with young people to focus on developing digital competencies and understanding cybersecurity, highlighting the potential of Nigeria's young demographic and the prospects arising from the nation's expanding financial technology sector.
"Being skilled with digital tools is now a necessity. Even professionals like fashion designers or makeup artists can connect with clients around the world without needing a physical workspace. Difficult periods are often the ideal time to begin something new, and the current challenges offer genuine chances for creativity," he said.
Backing the senator's policy-focused message, former MAPAMA National President, Prince Taofeek Oyeniyi, spoke about the effects of recent economic changes, such as the elimination of subsidies and the floating of the naira, on people and companies.
He urged the government to take action to reduce the hardships faced by Nigerians.
"Like every ordinary Nigerian, we experience the effects of the subsidy cut and the naira's devaluation. People should receive compensation via social services, better infrastructure, and fair policies that reduce daily expenses," Oyeniyi stated.
He also voiced disapproval over the cancellation of the National Halal Presentation Ceremony, highlighting its significance in fostering trust-driven markets, generating employment opportunities, and promoting ethical business practices.
"The Halal economy focuses on turning ethical values into financial gains, generating jobs, and growing markets. The government's inability to reschedule or clarify the cancellation sends an incorrect message. Nigeria should protect genuine economic efforts for the advantage of business-focused citizens and to ensure investor trust," he stated.
Presiding over the opening session, Dr. Ahmed "Tunde Popoola, Managing Director of CRC Credit Bureau Limited, encouraged graduates to take advantage of business opportunities amid economic challenges and to utilize alumni connections for guidance and professional development.
"Alumni associations play a vital role as they reinforce community connections, offer guidance, and boost the institution's reputation. This gathering serves as a means to maintain involvement and utilize networks for career and business advancement," Popoola stated.
He urged participants to take courageous and morally sound actions in their business endeavors.
"If you examine the tough economic conditions and decide not to take action, you will accomplish nothing. Difficult times are actually the ideal moment to begin something. I urge each of you to make that move," Popoola stated.
Delegates explored methods to utilize Nigeria's young population, expanding fintech environment, and digital prospects, while urging stronger cooperation among alumni, governmental bodies, and business partners to maximize economic possibilities with honesty and ethics.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
