By Edebor Esther
The Edo State Government through its Information Communication Technology Agency (Edo ICTA), has launched a new government-owned email system and onboarded civil and public servants across the State to enhance digital efficiency and data security for effective service delivery in the State.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director (MD) of Edo ICTA, Mr. Eghosa Urhoghide highlighted the importance of the move to a state-owned email system, noting that the State previously paid for a third-party email service, which hosted its data externally. According to him, “When we came on board, we met a system where we were paying licenses for email services. Our data were stored on external servers.”
Mr. Eghosa Urhoghide explained that the State has transitioned to a more cost-effective and secured approach; utilizing its own data centre for email hosting. He asserted that the shift not only ensures better utilization of the State’s investment in ICT infrastructure, but also enhances the accessibility of the emails. “Even when there are internet issues, staff within the Edo State Government network can still access their emails and files. Moreover, with proper access, files can now be reached from anywhere in the world,” he assured.
The ICTA Boss disclosed that the State’s Data Centre provides not just storage but also processing power; meaning Edo State Government agencies can connect computers to the Centre and “borrow” processing capabilities. He attributed the success of the project to the visionary leadership of the State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, whom he appreciated for prioritising innovations, technology, and improved service delivery throughout the State.
As part of the launch, training sessions were conducted for heads of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) and key personnel within the MDAs in the State. The trained personnels are expected to cascade the training within their respective MDAs, covering email setup, password management, upgrades, best practices, amongst others.
