Oyo Head of Service Advocates Digital Economy, Youth Empowerment for Economic Growth

The Oyo State Head of Service, Dr. Adenike Fasina, mni has recommended strategic investments in the digital economy, youth empowerment and sustainable job creation as pathways to economic growth.

She made this known while presenting her report from the Nigeria Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, during the interactive meeting of the Head of Service with the Accounting Officers in the Civil/Public Service, held at the Local Government Hall, Secretariat, Ibadan.

She described the digital economy as a major driver of productivity, innovation, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities, noting that, technological advancement is reshaping industries and creating new business models worldwide. It also highlighted Nigeria’s growing digital ecosystem, including the expansion of internet access, social media usage, financial technology, stressing the need for stronger infrastructure, digital literacy and wider access to technology.

The Head of Service identified inadequate digital infrastructure, low digital literacy, skills mismatch, limited industrialization and weak institutional capacity as major obstacles to maximising the benefits of the digital economy.

She recommended regular reviews of educational curricula to incorporate digital skills, vocational training and entrepreneurship development, alongside partnerships between educational institutions and the private sector to equip young Nigerians with skills relevant to labour market demands.

Dr. Fasina recommended establishing technology hubs and innovation centres, introducing vocational programmes in emerging technologies, integrating digital learning into the education system and expanding skills acquisition, reskilling and upskilling initiatives.

She said the study investigated how rising inflation had eroded workers’ purchasing power, making it increasingly difficult for low-income earners to meet up with the essential expenses, including food, transportation, housing and other household needs.

Dr. Fasina research recommended that the Oyo State Government approve a living wage above the N70,000 national minimum wage approved by the Federal Government, saying that, the state subsequently approved N80,000 as its minimum wage, an outcome highlighted in Dr. Fasina’s  study’s recommendations

She then expressed appreciation to God and Governor Seyi Makinde for her nomination to attend the executive course, hinting that, the knowledge and recommendations from the course provided valuable insights into digital transformation, workforce development and economic policies that could support sustainable growth and improve the welfare of workers in Oyo State.

The Accounting Officers commended the Head of Service for her professional and administrative expertise, expressing their appreciation for the wealth of knowledge and experience she acquired at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, which they said would greatly benefit the Oyo State Civil/Public Service.

Abiodun Atilola

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS