SPEECH BY HONOURABLE (DR.) OLUBUNMI TUNJI-OJO, MINISTER OF INTERIOR ON “HARNESSING TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION: A STRATEGIC SOLUTION TO INSECURITY”, AT THE 34TH CONVOCATION LECTURE, FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, AKURE (FUTA), ON THE 29TH OF NOVEMBER, 2024
PROTOCOLS
I will like to begin like this: “No one will ever be truly safe until everyone is safe”. I recall that this was the central message during the COVID-19 pandemic as remarkably emphasized by our very own diplomat and amazon, Amina Mohammed, who currently serves as the 5th United Nations Deputy Secretary-General. Still true till today, and maybe no longer around the pandemic but in security.
For me, until a child in Damboa in Borno State; in Sagbama in Bayelsa State, in the cracks of Kutiwenji in Niger State or in my village in Okeagbe Akoko is as safe as a child in Abuja, we cannot claim to have won the war against insecurity.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, let me use this opportunity to thank the management of the FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, AKURE, for this gracious invitation to speak at this auspicious occasion.
As a product of technology myself and someone who keeps tab with the trends in the industry, I must acknowledge the significant role FUTA as one of our country’s leading ivory towers of academia has played in not only producing some of our best brains but also contributing to the advancement of the discipline globally. Just this year in China, a FUTARIAN, Oyewale Abdulsobur, from the Computer Science Department was one of the trio that won the First Position Prize in Cloud Computing at 2024 edition of the Huawei ICT Global Competition after competing alongside 170,000 students from over 2,000 colleges and universities across over 80 countries and regions of the World.
Not to mention the 2024 edition of the AD Scientific Index Ranking of Institutions where FUTA is ranked amongst the top 5 universities in Nigeria. FUTA, yesterday, today, and tomorrow, remains a champion, and we (whether as students, management staff or associates like some of us) have every reason to celebrate.
For the next few minutes, I will contribute my voice to the global discussion on insecurity and the very critical role of technology in containing the menace. And, more importantly, for us as the largest black nation on earth.
It is important to state first that the topic: HARNESSING TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION: A STRATEGIC SOLUTION TO INSECURITY aptly defines what the Nigerian story has been in the past one and half years under the #RenewedHope government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where we have committed our time and resources to, shifting from talking theories, to presenting practical, relatable solutions during discussions as this.
INTRODUCTION
For a prestigious forum as this, I do not need to begin defining the term technology. I do believe it is what we do, what we teach, what we have learnt, and what put food on the table for some of us who have spent decades in the private sector as tech experts and consultants. Indeed, technology is now a chip on the plate of our respective DNA(s).
For this reason, I believe we know technology too well. Not only do we know its worth, we know its essence and potential in the general scheme of things around development and advancement of life, career, medicine, education, finance, and even government.
Ladies and gentlemen. But what about the subject of insecurity on the other hand? It is not enough to acknowledge its notorious dangers, we must, as a matter of emergency, critically examine how we got here, where, for instance, in every 10 minute, a woman is killed globally, as cited in the recently published 2023 UNODC Report on Femicides.
OUR REALITIES
Nigeria, often regarded as one of Africa’s economic powerhouses due to its abundant natural resources and dynamic population, faces profound security challenges that undermine its potential for growth and stability. These challenges, ranging from insurgencies and banditry to cybercrimes and kidnappings, have far-reaching implications for the economy, governance, and the overall sociopolitical environment.
To paraphrase Charles Kettering, a former head of research at General Motors, “understanding a problem is half of its solution.” On one hand, we are confronted by migration challenges, given our geographical location in Africa. As a country in West Africa, we are strategically situated between the Sahel to the north and the Gulf of Guinea to the south in the Atlantic Ocean, covering an area of 923,769 square kilometres. What this means is that, we are both a transit and destination country, susceptible to transnational organised crime, irregular migration and cross border crimes, among others.
When you look at the Sahel region, you will find five (5) of the poorest countries of the world, consequent of critical issues of climate, conflict, overpopulation and incessant military coup. Researchers, especially sociologists, will tell you that this is enough reason for people to migrate in pursuit of greener pastures, safety and happiness. Therefore, empirically speaking, Nigeria is under this pressure – pressure of migration and everything that comes with hosting new elements.
Also, when you look at the Gulf of Guinea, you will find countries struggling with the adverse effects of maritime insecurity and climate change that have resulted into epic flooding of coastal regions in Benin Republic, Cote d’Ivoire, Togo, Cameroon, Chad, amongst others.
A 2024 Conflict Trends report by Accord captures this sentiment accurately. I quote: “The Gulf of Guinea (GoG) emerges as a focal point of global concern due to escalating maritime insecurity, encompassing rampant illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, piracy, armed robbery, and oil-related crimes. This tumultuous maritime environment has weathered ongoing challenges over time, necessitating a meticulous examination of its security landscape. Beyond the pervasive issues, the GoG faces multifaceted threats, including geopolitical complexities, economic vulnerabilities, and environmental concerns. The intertwining of these factors amplifies the region’s susceptibility to maritime crimes and the urgency of comprehensive security measures.” [Tachie-Menson, E.A. (2024). Conflict Trends. ACCORD]
ARE WE WINNING?
Regardless of the situation, I always like to acknowledge that we are a lucky people, a lucky community, and a lucky race on earth with resilience and determination to weather any kind of storm. I nurture this kind of mindset because I believe we can surmount any challenge that may come our way. And, that whenever Nigerians unite, they always win.
We may, therefore, want to ask at this crucial point that one million dollar question: How have we harnessed technological innovation in a progressive win against insecurity, acknowledging the fact that we are not where we want to be yet but not where we used to be?
It is expedient to emphasise that technology has not come to take the place of man but has come as a tool to catalyse process.
As Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, responsible for enhancing internal security and citizenship integrity, I can categorically state that the fight against insecurity under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is no longer business as usual; it is business unusual. I take a cue from what Barack Obama said that “a secure border is a safe nation”.
With the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) as the lead agency in border security, border management, and border governance, we have been able to adapt technology to tighten up the security architecture of the nation through the deployment of remote sensing technologies to provide real-time surveillance over our vast borders, procurement of secure call-in phone lines for effective communication, facilitation of geofencing around sensitive sites that can alert authorities. By implication, we are now better equipped and positioned to analyse activities and threats along our land border space in real-time.
Today, all persons entering into the country through our international airports are pre-profiled before their arrival into the country. This was made possible by investing in infrastructure including installation of electronic gates (E-gates) in all our international airports and a state-of-the-art command and control centre with an interactive Advance Passenger Information System (APIS). The sophistication of this particular facility was adjudged “a lighthouse project that will act as a blueprint in not just for Nigeria but for the entire Africa. Unique of its kind, latest technology, highest quality.”
Those are the remarks of Savas Toplama, the senior Digital Transformation expert of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) headquartered in Canada.
In its over sixty one years of existence, the NIS had its data in the custody of a third party. In harnessing technology to better secure Nigeria, today, the NIS has a 7.1 PetaBytes (PB) Dell Tier-4 Data Center in its headquarter in Abuja. This facility strengthens data security and enhances operational efficiency in managing nation security information and date.
NEW PASSPORT AND VISA REGIME
Upon my gracious appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) as the Minister of Interior in August 2023, I was disgusted by the frustration of Nigerians in acquiring the Nigerian passport, which of course is a right for whoever can afford it. It was shocking to find backlogs that have accumulated over a long period. Driven by the RenewedHope of the President, we were able to clear the backlogs within three weeks. As much as this deserves some accolades, for me, this is not even the best we can do.
We launched the end-to-end automation of the passport application process, whereby, as a Nigerian, you can complete the process from the comfort of your home and upload all supporting documents. We have even made a more forward leap when, on the 1st of November this year, we launched the contactless biometric passport enrolment.
By the end of March 2025, we would have achieved a hundred per cent new passport regime that will also include the personalisation and printing of the Nigerian passport in ONLY two locations in Nigeria, acknowledging that the passport is more of a security document than a travelling document and must be treated as such.
The automation of the application of the Nigerian visa has not only improved on the swiftness of response and approval but has also ensured that all approvals are centralised and issued from the headquarters of NIS within forty eight hours of receipt of such application. This is in fulfilment of the desire of the present government to open up the Nigeria business space for investment. The results of these initiatives are evident. Just a couple of days ago, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) confirmed the growth in GDP by 3.46% in Q3 2024.
This innovation has not only driven efficiency in the system but has also saved government money in billions of naira.
For the sake of this circle, let me state here without sounding patronising, that the often quoted statement that Nigeria is a mere spectator in the field of technology is no longer true. Today, we have become a major component, an active player, and a contributor whether in discuss, appreciation or advancement of technology.
IDENTITY MANAGEMENT
For a long time, we have had to deal with the challenge of identity theft where foreigners could sneak into the country with a fake travel document, commit crime, and fizzle out through the nearest border. Today, this is a thing of the past as our new passport regime has led the harmonisation of data mission of the government such that the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is the only source of data.
What did we do? We linked our system to the NIMC database with a coordinating API that helps us pull data from the repository in real time whenever an applicant sits behind his phone or computer to enrol for the passport. This way, no man can ever carry two (2) identities. Again, this is the fruit of harnessing technology to contain insecurity. I can go on and on to enlist technology interventions that have helped us mitigate the pang of insecurity in Nigeria. Beyond the handshake between the NIA and NIMC, we are establishing a Single Point of Contact (SPoC) which is a bold step in our data harmonisation drive. By implication, NIMC, in line with its establishing laws, becomes the primary database of Nigerians, eradicating multiplicity of identity.
PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS AND APPROACHES TO INSECURITY
The relationship between technology and security has become increasingly crucial in addressing contemporary security challenges, especially in countries like Nigeria. Traditional security measures, while still necessary, often fall short in providing comprehensive and timely solutions to emerging threats. The integration of technological innovations into the security framework can significantly enhance the effectiveness of security operations, offering both preventive and reactive capabilities.
1. Real-time Surveillance and Border Security: Technology plays a pivotal role in ensuring border security through advanced surveillance systems. AI-powered technologies, drones, and satellite monitoring offer real-time data that can track movement across borders, detect unusual activities, and facilitate rapid responses to potential threats. Automated border patrols and biometric systems further enhance security by minimizing human error and improving efficiency.
2. Cybersecurity and Data Protection: As the world becomes increasingly digital, the need for robust cybersecurity measures grows exponentially. Cyberattacks targeting financial institutions, government databases, and critical infrastructure pose a significant risk to national security. By utilizing cutting-edge cybersecurity frameworks, such as AI-driven threat detection systems, data encryption technologies, and advanced firewalls, nations can protect their digital infrastructure from malicious actors.
3. Predictive Analytics and AI for Crime Prevention: Artificial intelligence, specifically machine learning, allows for predictive policing and crime prevention. By analyzing vast amounts of data, AI systems can identify patterns and predict criminal activity before it occurs, enabling law enforcement to respond preemptively. This is particularly useful in managing and preventing complex criminal activities like terrorism, human trafficking, and organized crime.
4. Big Data Analytics for Terrorism and Crime Networks: Big data analytics helps to detect and disrupt criminal and terrorist networks by analyzing data from various sources, including social media, financial transactions, and communications. Through AI and machine learning algorithms, security agencies can detect suspicious behaviors, track funding sources, and uncover hidden connections within criminal organizations, thereby neutralizing threats before they escalate.
5. Communication and Coordination: Technology facilitates the efficient coordination of security operations across different agencies and departments. Secure communication channels, data sharing platforms, and real-time information exchange ensure that all security actors, both national and international, are working with the most up-to-date intelligence available. This improves the speed and accuracy of responses to security incidents.
ROLE OF ACADEMIA AND INDUSTRY
A. Research and Development:
Universities as Incubators for Solutions Academic institutions like the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), are vital hubs for research and innovation. They possess the intellectual capacity, technical expertise, and state-of-the-art facilities needed to develop cutting-edge security technologies. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, universities can pioneer advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and surveillance technologies tailored to Nigeria’s unique security landscape.
To achieve this, universities must prioritize:
- Establishing dedicated research centres focused on technological security solutions.
- Creating industry-relevant programs that address pressing national challenges.
- Supporting open innovation platforms where students and researchers can collaborate with stakeholders to test and refine prototypes.
B. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Bridging the Gap
Sustainable security solutions require strong partnerships between academia, government, and industry. PPPs offer an avenue to scale university-led innovations and commercialize security technologies.
- Collaborative Projects: By engaging with industries in joint research and development efforts, stakeholders can co-create scalable technologies, such as drone surveillance systems, biometric authentication devices, and secure communication networks.
- Knowledge Transfer Programs: Establishing pathways for researchers to work with private security firms and government agencies, ensures innovations are practical and aligned with real-world needs.
RECOMMENDATIONS
- We must continue to invest in the education of our young people in various science and technology disciplines so that they can grow to become a critical building block in the society.
- We must adequately fund research and development teams, and bodies to help in evaluate and proffer solutions to present and future challenges.
- We must resist the urge to administer short term solutions to long term problems as this will only compound our problems in the future.
- We must embrace local brains, local people, local ideas.
- Security is everybody’s business. We must not leave it to the government. Citizens must be patriotic in their action and inaction to help government fight non-state actors who may want to perpetrate evil. As a nation, we are as strong as our weakest link.
- As a citadel of learning, we must seek opportunities to collaborate with government. We cannot relent just yet. We must make sure we develop our curriculum to build expertise. Like the US, Japan, Germany, Qatar, China, Malaysia and Spain, we must get to a point where we can export our ideas and innovations to the rest of the world.
- We must take telecommunications seriously as a minute signal loss can cost a multi-billion-dollar loss to the nation.
- Finally, we must not forget that technology will never replace man because the place of human intelligence in driving and managing technology cannot be overemphasized. Hence, a technology plan without an adequate provision for support for humans is no plan. Therefore, as leaders, and like I often tell my team, while we invest in both software and hardware components of technology, we must equally invest in this critical element of human-ware. Whether through their welfare packages, trainings or other career entitlements such as promotions, we must make them happy.
MY CHARGE
Dear graduates, you are the VIPs in this hall at this moment, I owe you something -the responsibility to tell you the truth as you stand on the edge of a new chapter in your lives, stepping into the world of possibilities.
Life has bestowed upon us a canvas on which we can paint masterpieces. We stand at the threshold of opportunity, poised to become the architects of a new Nigeria. I made a resolve long ago that I would not pass on to my children the same Nigeria that was handed to me by my father. Instead, I am committed to bequeathing a Nigeria transformed, where dreams can flourish and aspirations are within reach.
In my own career as an ICT expert before my foray into public service, I have discovered that the most profound lessons often come after the formal education has ended. I encourage each of you to remain resolute, eager to absorb knowledge and do the unusual.
If you do not take anything home today, write this down: Education is your rightful inheritance, and it is incumbent upon you to claim your share wherever and whenever you encounter it. Continue to learn, to grow, and to adapt, for in doing so, you will not only enrich your own lives but also contribute significantly to the society you serve, especially in areas of adapting technology to solve challenges of health, education, finance, and the big focus of this lecture -INSECURITY.
CONCLUSION
The role of technology in addressing insecurities is paramount. As we navigate the complexities of an increasingly interconnected world, we must remain steadfast in our efforts to combat these threats, and if need be, develop Standards Operating Procedures (SOP) so that future handlers when we are long gone can keep the flag aloft.
Once again, I must emphasize that technology will undoubtedly continue to be crucial in shaping our responses to emerging threats. And, with ongoing investment in technological innovation and a collaborative security approach that involves us all, we can forge a brighter, safer future for generations to come.
Thank you very much.
Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo
Minister of Interior
Federal Republic of Nigeria
29TH NOVEMBER, 2024
