Bill Gates, former CEO of Microsoft, says he is collaborating with the federal government (FG) on an identity technology platform to facilitate tax collection.
On Sunday, gates spoke to President Bola Tinubu on the margins of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Saudi Arabia.
According to Ajuri Ngelale, the presidential adviser, Gates stated that the technology will improve payment efficiency and simplify tax collection.
Gates said:
“We are working with Mr. Wale Edun, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, on digitisation.”
“Before you came into office, there were a few things attempted in identity management. But they have been very scattered. There have been multiple identification systems.
“Now, there is a plan to take that technology called MOSIP and use it for this identification platform so that people can get digital benefits. We are providing support for that, and we can provide more support.
“With MOSIP ID, there is potential application in all government payment programmes.
“It helps with payment efficiency and bank accounts, and eventually, when everyone is using that, it makes tax collection easier.
“That benefit will take a few years. However, there will be more bank accounts, more financial inclusion, and effective government payment programmes.”
The industrialist, who is also co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, stated that Nigeria has the capacity to operate “this system and related-technological systems because the nation brims with talented youths”.
In his remarks, Tinubu stated that his administration will investigate and develop the proposed technology further.
He stated that technology is an effective weapon against corruption and financial wrongdoing in the public sector.
The president restated his steadfast commitment to delivering dependable technology to underpin a national consumer credit system and numerous other essential measures for all Nigerians.
He stated that resistance is common when attempts are made to tighten processes and prevent misconduct.
Tinubu said:
“Technology is the enemy of fraud, corruption, and irregularity. We have been working hard on improving technology.”
“There is always the initial resistance.
“Corruption, self-interest, and fraudulent activity will always be an enemy, but when you bend that curve, you will receive the benefit. The nation will receive the benefit.”
Tinubu, recounting how he used technology to boost Lagos state’s income base during his tenure as governor, stated that his administration must invest in technology, particularly as the state strives to meet a trillion-naira revenue objective.
Source: TheCable