The activation of the Basic Registry and Information System (BRISIN) in Nigeria could generate approximately $600 million and create over 10 million jobs. While the project has been in the works since 2007, delays in governmental processes have stalled its implementation. Experts urge swift action to unlock its potential benefits, which include bolstered economic growth, improved governance, and enhanced national security.
The activation of the Basic Registry and Information System (BRISIN) in Nigeria could potentially earn the country around $600 million and create over 10 million jobs. This was announced by Dr. Anthony Uwa, who heads the BRISIN initiative, during a press conference in Abuja. BRISIN itself is designed as an integrated data system aimed at daily data collection, storage, and distribution, which would support the management of Nigeria’s economy more efficiently than currently.
BRISIN was initially approved in 2007 during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration. Subsequent administrations have shown support for the project; for example, Goodluck Jonathan’s administration set up a technical committee for it. Then, in 2018, President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration approved the project’s implementation, starting with a pilot in the Federal Capital Territory.
Dr. Uwa expressed frustration during the briefing which noted that delays from the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning are obstructing BRISIN’s development. He pointed out that activating BRISIN would not only benefit economic development but also improve access to credit, enhance national development, and create a significant number of jobs.
The potential of BRISIN extends to improved national security and social welfare systems. Uwa emphasized the broad impacts this initiative could have, suggesting that BRISIN would significantly aid in economic planning, investment and tech growth, and revenue generation among other benefits. It is anticipated that intervention funds from countries such as Italy could also be attracted through this project.
Since its inception, Uwa stated that had BRISIN been fully implemented in 2018, the country would have seen notable improvements in governance. This includes establishing better checks and balances against corruption, enhancing fiscal control, and ultimately contributing to sustainable development.
The BRISIN project is managed by a coordinating agency, namely the National Planning Commission, which operates under the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.
Lorenzo Santangelo, the Director of Solution Providers at Dermo Impex, also commented on the significance of BRISIN to Nigeria’s growth. He argued that without a stable basic registry system, Nigeria struggles with international credibility, hindering economic progress. Santangelo reiterated that implementing BRISIN would greatly enhance transparency, accountability, and, importantly, credit access for businesses, urging the government to move forward quickly so that the nation can harness these potential advantages.
In conclusion, the BRISIN initiative represents a major opportunity for Nigeria, promising significant financial benefits and job creation if implemented successfully. With ongoing delays, advocates like Dr. Uwa and Santangelo emphasize urgent governmental action to activate this project, which could transform the economic landscape and enhance transparency across the nation. The expected international support could further bolster its success.
Original Source: guardian.ng
