Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called for a balance between innovation and responsibility in the adoption of technology, especially in governance, education, politics, and security.
Delivering the keynote address at the 12th Professor Adetokunbo Babatunde Sofoluwe Memorial Lecture held at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Senator Basiru underscored the urgent need for Nigeria to adopt strong frameworks for tech governance in order to harness its benefits while mitigating associated risks.
Speaking on the theme “Tech Governance in 2025: Balancing Innovation with Responsibility,” Senator Basiru, himself a UNILAG alumnus, paid glowing tribute to the late Professor Sofoluwe, describing him as an academic luminary and administrative visionary who left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s educational system.
“This annual lecture series in honour of Professor Sofoluwe represents the kind of public service our nation desperately needs,” he said.
Technology as a Double-Edged Sword
The APC National Secretary acknowledged the transformational power of technology across various sectors, citing its growing role in business, education, elections, and legal practice. However, he warned that without deliberate regulation and responsible use, technology could undermine national security, social cohesion, and democracy.
“While innovation is the backbone of modern society, we must adopt ethical and sustainable practices that protect human rights and serve the public good,” Basiru cautioned.
He stressed that emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, e-voting systems, and cloud computing must be deployed with a strong sense of responsibility to avoid misuse, misinformation, and security breaches.
Focus on Education and Access
Highlighting the importance of tech governance in education, Senator Basiru said Nigerian schools must prioritize equitable access to technology to ensure no student is left behind.
“Technology is revolutionising learning, but the digital divide in Nigeria continues to deepen educational inequalities,” he noted, calling for urgent policy interventions to address access gaps in rural and underserved communities.
He urged stakeholders to ensure that technological advancement in the education sector promotes inclusion and opportunity for all Nigerians, regardless of socioeconomic status.
Elections and the Limits of E-Voting
Senator Basiru also delved into the role of technology in elections, reflecting on the 2023 general elections and the controversies surrounding electronic result transmission.
“E-voting has the potential to enhance electoral credibility, but we must be cautious,” he warned. “In a country where electricity and internet connectivity remain challenges, introducing e-voting prematurely would be irresponsible.”
While noting that the APC had already begun digital member registration, he emphasized that wider adoption of e-voting must be preceded by strong infrastructure, legal safeguards, and civic education.
Fake News and Cybersecurity Threats
The APC chieftain decried the spread of fake news via social media, describing it as a threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
“No government will sit idly while its citizens use social media irresponsibly in ways that endanger national security,” he said.
He called for regulatory oversight that protects citizens' freedom of expression while curbing misinformation. He also warned about the growing menace of cybercrime, calling for stronger collaboration between government and law enforcement to tackle online fraud, identity theft, and cyber-terrorism.
The Role of Institutions and Alumni
Senator Basiru called on Nigerian universities, particularly UNILAG, to take the lead in promoting research and advocacy on responsible technology use. He urged curriculum reforms that integrate tech ethics, data protection, and digital innovation in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and security.
“As alumni, we must support the institution that shaped us by championing policies that drive inclusive and responsible tech development,” he said.
Closing Remarks
In conclusion, Senator Basiru said the best way to honour Professor Sofoluwe’s legacy was to ensure that technology serves the public good.
“We must insist on innovation that is guided by ethical standards, research, and public interest—just as Professor Sofoluwe championed education as a tool for national development,” he concluded.
The memorial lecture was organized by the University of Lagos Alumni Association (Lagos State Branch) and attended by academics, policymakers, students, and alumni committed to advancing the legacy of Professor Sofoluwe.
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