Osun Stakeholders Meet to Educate the Grassroots on Digital Privacy

Stakeholders from different works of life in Osun State have highlighted the importance of digital privacy, security, and inclusivity as tools to drive grassroots economic growth.

This was the focus of a sensitization event themed “Digital Privacy and Security Awareness for Grassroot Economic Development”, held on Thursday, 11th September 2025. The event which was organized by the office of the Senior Special Assistant on rural development and Community affairs in Partnership with the office of the Special Adviser innovation,science, technology and digital economy with Cypsec was an eye opener engagement.

Hon. Azeez Badmus, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Innovation, Science, Technology and Digital Economy, explained that the Imole Wi-Fi project was created to improve digital access and place Osun among states doing well in technology.

He said that schools and other chosen locations were selected to help secondary school graduates gain digital skills and a better understanding of the Internet. According to him, the project is meant to bridge social gaps and give everyone access to digital opportunities.

Giving his lecture, Dr Ajiboye Mayowa warned that people in grassroots communities face risks if they are not aware of digital safety. He compared digital privacy to “a padlock on your digital door,” protecting against dangers such as viruses and scams. He added that small businesses, mobile money operators, and locals need to know how to create strong passwords, use two-step authentication, and make proper use of the Imole Wi-Fi.

In his goodwill message, Hon. Adewumi Adeyemi Irekandu, lawmaker representing Obokun State Constituency in the Osun State House of Assembly, encouraged participants to stay conscious of their actions, remain consistent, and always seek improvement.

He also called for more youth involvement in governance, noting that government policies can either support or affect their efforts.

More importantly , Hon.Adetunji Ajala, in his address, stressed the importance of the sensitisation. He said it was coming at a crucial time, as Governor Ademola Adeleke had just launched the Imole Wi-Fi and osun is exposed to digital space.

Also, the representative of CypSec, while presenting awards of recognition to stakeholders, noted that Osun is ready to move forward in the technology space, which makes sensitisation on digital privacy very important.