IGF 2025 Lightning Talk #166 Lightning Talks

    Association of Community Social Volunteers International, Lagos ACSVI
    Organizers and Speakers Information 1. Name(s) and Organizational Affiliation(s): Dr. Lamin Mohammed Kpaka – Member of the Board of Directors in Charge of Digital Innovation and Executive Director of the Association of Community Social Volunteers International, Lagos ACSVI And four other members of the Board of Directors in the ICT Department of Association of Community Social Volunteers International, Lagos ACSVI 2. Stakeholder and Regional Group of Organizers: Stakeholder Group: Civil Society, Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Regional Group: Africa (Nigeria-based Organization) 3. Onsite Moderator: Nkechi Glory Ekeowa Member of the Board of Directors in charge of Digital Health and E-Governance in the ICT Department of the Association of Community Social Volunteers International (ACSVI). 4. Speakers (Onsite): Dr. Lamin Mohammed Kpaka Member of the Board of Directors and Executive Director of the Association of Community Social Volunteers International, Lagos ACSVI Chidiebere Peter Nwachukwu Member of the Board of Directors in charge of Digital Innovation and Technology Infrastructure in the ICT Department of the Association of Community Social Volunteers International (ACSVI). 5. Rapporteur: Gbenga Abayomi Lawal Member of the Board of Directors in charge of ICT Training and Digital Literacy in the ICT Department of the Association of Community Social Volunteers International (ACSVI).
    Speakers
    Dr. Lamin Mohammed Kpaka Member of the Board of Directors in Charge of Digital Innovation and Executive Director of the Association of Community Social Volunteers International, Lagos ACSVI And four other members of the Board of Directors in the ICT Department of Association of Community Social Volunteers International, Lagos ACSVI
    Onsite Moderator
    Nkechi Glory Ekeowa Member of the Board of Directors in charge of Digital Health and E-Governance in the ICT Department of the Association of Community Social Volunteers International (ACSVI).
    Rapporteur
    Gbenga Abayomi Lawal Member of the Board of Directors in charge of ICT Training and Digital Literacy in the ICT Department of the Association of Community Social Volunteers International (ACSVI).
    SDGs
    1. No Poverty
    4. Quality Education
    8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
    9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
    10. Reduced Inequalities
    13. Climate Action
    17. Partnerships for the Goals


    Targets: Relevance to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) This proposal supports several SDGs through digital transformation: • SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): Strengthening digital ecosystems for economic growth. • SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs. • SDG 1 (No Poverty): Using Fintech and e-commerce to uplift underserved communities. • SDG 4 (Quality Education): Expanding access to digital learning (e.g., uLesson, NOUN). • SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): Bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas. • SDG 13 (Climate Action): Leveraging smart technology to drive sustainable agriculture and green logistics. • SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Encouraging cross-sector collaboration to accelerate digital adoption.
    Format
    Format: Fully in-person, Lightning Talk (15-20 minutes) and ten Minutes for Q&A
    Duration (minutes)
    30
    Description
    Title: Inclusion, Organizational Resilience, and Sustainable Development in Nigeria: The Role of Digital Innovations Session Type: Lightning Talk Format: Fully in-person Duration: 15-20 minutes ________________________________________ 1. Introduction This Lightning Talk will explore how digital innovations are driving inclusion, resilience, and sustainable development in Nigeria. Aligning with the IGF2025 overarching theme of “Building Digital Governance Together,” the talk will highlight how emerging technologies are reshaping key sectors like agriculture, finance, transportation, and e-commerce. It will also address existing challenges and provide actionable recommendations for fostering sustainable digital governance. ________________________________________ 2. Alignment with IGF2025 Subtheme: Sustainable and Responsible Innovation This proposal aligns with the IGF2025 subtheme of Sustainable and Responsible Innovation by demonstrating how digital technologies are enhancing economic stability, reducing environmental impact, and creating inclusive opportunities. Key Focus Areas: 1. Sustainable Agriculture: Technologies like IoT, AI, and drone-based farming (e.g., Hello Tractor, Farmcrowdy) are improving food security, minimizing waste, and making farming more efficient. 2. Financial Inclusion: Fintech platforms like Piggyvest, Kuda, and Carbon are enabling underserved communities to access credit, savings, and business opportunities. 3. Green and Smart Transportation: Companies like Kobo360 and Nairaxi are using AI, IoT, and blockchain to optimize logistics, reduce emissions, and promote sustainability in supply chains. 4. E-Commerce for Inclusion: Platforms like Jumia and Konga are bridging gaps in trade by improving access to goods and services for remote communities. ________________________________________ 3. Challenges to Digital Innovation in Nigeria Despite the progress, several barriers still hinder digital transformation: • Limited affordability and access to digital tools and reliable internet. • Low digital literacy and language barriers. • Urban-rural divide in infrastructure and tech adoption. • Regulatory and institutional challenges affecting innovation and investment. ________________________________________ 4. Recommendations for a Sustainable Digital Future To fully harness the potential of digital innovations, the following actions are recommended: 1. Stronger Public-Private Collaboration: The Nigerian government and industry leaders must co-develop policies that remove barriers to digital adoption. 2. Investment in Digital Infrastructure: Expanding affordable internet and tech accessibility in rural areas. 3. Capacity Building: Promoting digital literacy and entrepreneurship training for youth and small businesses. 4. Incentives for Innovation: Creating tax breaks, funding opportunities, and policies that encourage startups. 5. Sustainable Policies: Addressing regulatory challenges to prevent brain drain and ensure long-term digital growth. ________________________________________ 5. Conclusion and Call to Action Digital technologies have the power to drive inclusion, economic resilience, and sustainable development in Nigeria. However, unlocking this potential requires collaboration between policymakers, tech innovators, and communities. This talk will provide practical insights into how we can bridge digital gaps and create a future where technology works for everyone. Join the conversation and be part of the movement shaping Nigeria’s sustainable digital future. ________________________________________ 6. Relevance to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) This proposal supports several SDGs through digital transformation: • SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): Strengthening digital ecosystems for economic growth. • SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs. • SDG 1 (No Poverty): Using Fintech and e-commerce to uplift underserved communities. • SDG 4 (Quality Education): Expanding access to digital learning (e.g., uLesson, NOUN). • SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): Bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas. • SDG 13 (Climate Action): Leveraging smart technology to drive sustainable agriculture and green logistics. • SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Encouraging cross-sector collaboration to accelerate digital adoption. ________________________________________ Why This Matters for IGF2025 This talk offers a real-world perspective on Nigeria’s digital transformation journey, sharing insights that can benefit other developing nations. By focusing on practical examples, challenges, and solutions, it aligns with IGF2025’s vision of Building Digital Governance Together while reinforcing the importance of Sustainable and Responsible Innovation. Authors: Dr. Lamin Mohammed Kpaka Member of the Board of Directors in Charge of Digital Innovation and Executive Director of the Association of Community Social Volunteers International, Lagos ACSVI And four other members of the Board of Directors in the ICT Department of Association of Community Social Volunteers International, Lagos ACSVI

    1) How will you facilitate interaction between onsite and online speakers and attendees? Although this session is fully in-person, engagement strategies will be implemented to ensure broader participation: Live Q&A and Discussions: In-person attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a brief Q&A session following the Lightning Talk. Social Media Engagement: A dedicated hashtag will be used on X (Twitter) and LinkedIn to encourage discussions and collect key takeaways from the session. Post-Event Resource Sharing: A summary of key insights, along with presentation highlights, will be made available online to extend engagement beyond the event. 2) How will you design the session to ensure the best possible experience for online and onsite participants? The Lightning Talk will be structured for clarity, with a strong narrative that keeps the audience engaged. The presentation will include real-world examples, short case studies, and visuals to maintain interest. Participants will be encouraged to share their thoughts and reflections via social media before, during, and after the session. A post-session networking opportunity will be provided to allow further discussions among attendees. 3) Please note any complementary online tools/platforms you plan to use to increase participation and interaction during the session. X (Twitter) and LinkedIn: A session-specific hashtag will be used to capture key insights, encourage live discussions, and allow remote engagement. Google Docs or a Public Pad: A shared document will be made available post-session for participants to contribute additional ideas and recommendations. Event Website or Forum (if applicable): Key takeaways and a summary will be shared on relevant online platforms to extend accessibility. Although this session is primarily in-person, these strategies will ensure broader engagement and lasting impact beyond the physical event.