In a compelling address at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Dr. Yaya Johnson, Head of IT Infrastructure at Totalenergies Exploration and Production, Nigeria, made a resounding appeal for increased investment in technology to spearhead Nigeria’s entry into the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
The call was made during the inaugural Annual Lecture of the School of Computing, where Dr. Johnson emphasized that technology is not merely a facilitator but the core driver of this transformative era.
Dr. Johnson, a distinguished alumnus and the best graduating student of FUTA in 2001, delivered a thought-provoking lecture titled “The Role of Information Technology in Driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).”
He stressed the importance of strategic investments in advanced technologies such as Data Analysis, the Internet of Things (IoT), Robotics, Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI), 5G Connectivity, Cloud Computing, and Virtual Reality (VR).
“The Fourth Industrial Revolution is fundamentally changing the way we live, work, and interact. Information technology is not just an enabler but the very core of this transformation. Governments, businesses, and academia must collaborate to maximize the benefits of these technologies or risk being left behind,” Dr. Johnson stated.
Highlighting the transformative power of data analysis, Dr. Johnson described it as crucial for informed decision-making, predicting consumer behavior, and optimizing supply chains.
He expounded on IoT’s role in smart cities and industrial automation, noting its potential to enhance efficiency through real-time data collection. Meanwhile, AI was lauded for its groundbreaking applications in sectors from healthcare to customer service.
Dr. Johnson also spoke about the revolutionary impact of 5G technology, which promises to redefine connectivity with faster speeds and lower latency, unlocking new possibilities in telemedicine and autonomous vehicles. He further emphasized the role of Cloud Computing in providing scalable solutions that drive innovation without the burden of heavy infrastructure costs.
Virtual Reality (VR) was presented as a game-changer, offering immersive experiences in education and entertainment. Dr. Johnson urged stakeholders to invest in education and skill development to prepare the workforce for the demands of 4IR, advocating for public-private partnerships to drive innovation and equitable distribution of technological advancements.
Professor Adenike Oladiji, FUTA’s Vice Chancellor, reinforced the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and technological progress. She stated, “At FUTA, we are not just imparting knowledge; we are cultivating innovators and leaders who will harness the power of emerging technologies to solve real-world problems.”
Professor Kayode Alese, Dean of the School of Computing, expressed pride in the school’s proactive adaptation to technological advancements, emphasizing the importance of industry-academic partnerships in providing students with hands-on experience.
“We are committed to bridging the gap between academia and industry. Our students engage in internships, research projects, and industrial attachments that allow them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges,” he said.
The event concluded with awards recognizing individuals who have significantly contributed to the field of computing, marking another milestone in FUTA’s mission to remain at the forefront of technological innovation.
