The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, delivered the 31st and 32nd Combined Convocation Lecture at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Wednesday, 4 November 2026.
Delivering his lecture on โDigital Sovereignty and Ethics: Guarding the Economy for the Next Generation,โ the Honourable Minister highlighted the growing importance of digital innovation, artificial intelligence, data protection and ethical leadership in shaping Nigeriaโs economic future.
He noted that Nigeria must transition from being predominantly a consumer of foreign technologies to becoming a competitive creator of digital solutions, intellectual property and globally relevant enterprises.
The Honourable Minister explained that achieving digital sovereignty requires deliberate investments in human capital, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, research and innovation, alongside policies that encourage enterprise and protect citizens.
He also challenged graduating students to embrace lifelong learning, develop practical solutions to societal challenges and demonstrate integrity in their professional and digital interactions.
According to the Honourable Minister, technology alone cannot guarantee prosperity. Sustainable economic progress requires a generation equipped with the knowledge, creativity and character to translate innovation into meaningful economic opportunities.
He further encouraged universities to strengthen partnerships with government and industry, positioning higher education as a catalyst for entrepreneurship, employment generation and national development.
The lecture reinforced the importance of building a digitally empowered generation capable of creating value, strengthening Nigeriaโs competitiveness and contributing to long-term economic prosperity.
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