By Abiodun Abdullai
The United Nations University on E-Governance (UNU-EGOV) has reviewed 151 research papers focused on advancing digital transformation and e-governance across Africa.
The papers, authored by over 308 researchers worldwide, were presented at the 18th edition of the International Conference on Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance (ICEGOV 2025), held at the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre in Abuja.
The event, jointly organized by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), brought together 508 participants from 51 countries under the theme "Shaping the Future of Digital Governance through Cooperation, Innovation, and Inclusion."
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Delfina Soares, Director of UNU-EGOV, commended Nigeria's ongoing investment in digital infrastructure and skills development, describing the country's transformation efforts as strategic and progressive.
"Nigeria has made digital transformation a national priority. We've seen consistent engagement since 2018, with Nigerian delegations actively participating in ICEGOV. It's clear the country is making notable progress," Soares said.
Professor Adegboyega Ojo, Programme Chair for ICEGOV 2025 and a scholar at Carleton University, Canada, noted that the conference continues to serve as a platform for dialogue on how digital technology can enhance governance and service delivery.
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"The focus is on how technology can improve internal government processes, policymaking, and the way public services are delivered," Ojo explained.
Lukman Lamid, Special Assistant on Innovation and Research to NITDA's Director-General, said recommendations from the conference will form part of a framework for Nigeria's evolving digital economy strategy.
Dr. Robert Ifeonu, Lead Business Analyst on Digital Development Initiatives at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), emerged winner of the Best Research Paper award at the conference. His paper presented a new approach to driving successful digital transformation projects in the public sector.
"Many government digital projects fail globally, not just in developing countries. My research proposes a model that can improve outcomes and rebuild citizens' trust in digital governance," Dr. Ifeonu said.
The annual ICEGOV conference provides a global platform for policymakers, academics, and industry experts to exchange knowledge on using technology to make governments more transparent, inclusive, and efficient.
