DeeMoat Hub has welcomed the Edo State Government’s decision to undertake a comprehensive review of the state’s Digital Policy, describing the exercise as a timely opportunity to strengthen digital inclusion, responsible innovation, public service delivery, job creation and sustainable economic growth.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by its Founder and Executive Lead, Rev. David Ugolor, the Benin City-based inclusive AI, digital-skills and innovation hub urged the government to ensure that the review process is broad-based and capable of producing a practical, measurable and implementable policy.
The Hub particularly welcomed the government’s intention to develop an AI-ready framework, alongside measures covering digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, data governance, e-government, investment, employment and institutional coordination.
DeeMoat Hub described the policy review as a “bold and timely decision,” saying it provides an opportunity to reposition Edo State for the demands of a rapidly changing digital economy.
The organisation also congratulated the officials appointed to lead the review, particularly the Chairman of the Steering Committee and Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Osas Okungbowa, and the Vice Chairman and Commissioner for Communication and Digital Economy, Prof. Ignatius Ikponmwosa Omorodion.
“We particularly welcome the commitment to produce an AI-ready, enforceable and measurable policy supported by a clear implementation roadmap, appropriate financing arrangements and defined performance indicators,” the statement said.
DeeMoat Hub also welcomed the proposed Technical Committees dealing with Artificial Intelligence; Digital Infrastructure and Cloud; Cybersecurity and Digital Framework; Data Governance; E-Governance; Digital Economy, Jobs and Investment; Institutional and Regulatory Framework; and alignment with the SHINE Agenda.
The organisation, however, said the success of the review would depend significantly on the extent to which stakeholders outside government are involved in the process.
It called for the participation of technology hubs, universities, businesses, civil society organisations, professional bodies, innovators, students, public servants and communities.
“These stakeholders possess practical knowledge and experience that can help ensure that the policy responds to local realities and is capable of effective implementation,” it said.
The Hub further suggested that the revised policy should establish clear institutional responsibilities and reduce duplication among government institutions.
It also called for practical standards governing the responsible use of artificial intelligence in government, including provisions on approved AI tools, sensitive-data handling, cybersecurity, human oversight, auditability, accountability and citizens’ rights where technology is used in public decision-making.
DeeMoat Hub assured the government of its readiness to contribute its expertise to the review process and work with both the Steering Committee and the various Technical Committees.
“As an inclusive AI, digital-skills and innovation hub based in Benin City, DeeMoat Hub looks forward to working with the Steering Committee and its Technical Committees,” the statement said.
The organisation said it could contribute practical experience in responsible AI adoption, public-sector capacity development, digital skills, SME transformation, youth and intergenerational learning, community engagement and the testing of locally relevant digital solutions.
The Hub stressed that the ultimate test of the reviewed policy would be its impact beyond the policy document itself.
“A successful digital policy should not remain a document on paper. It must become a practical instrument that improves public services, supports businesses, develops skills, protects citizens and creates opportunities across Edo State,” it said.
The statement positions DeeMoat Hub not merely as a supporter of the review but as a potential technical and community-level partner in translating the policy into practical outcomes for citizens, businesses and government institutions.