‘Data management will foster transparencing’

Stakeholders have been encouraged to adopt best practices in data management to foster transparency, accountability, and progress.

Speaking at an online tech forum recently, data policy analyst, Gideon Abegunrin highlighted the critical importance of data-driven decisions and innovation, underscoring the need for the adoption of FAIR data principles.

FAIR, an acronym for Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable, represents a set of guidelines designed to enhance the usability and reusability of data, particularly in scientific data management and stewardship.

Abegunrin noted that the FAIR Guiding Principles for Scientific Data Management and Stewardship were published in Scientific Data in 2016, emphasising that their importance cannot be overstated.

He urged stakeholders to embrace these principles to ensure that data is managed and utilised effectively, driving progress and innovation in Nigeria.

“FAIR data is not just a technical requirement; it is a fundamental pillar for ensuring that data serves the public good,” Abegunrin stated.

He elaborated on the significance of each aspect of FAIR data, starting with findability.

“When data is findable, it means it can be easily located by both humans and machines, ensuring that valuable information is not lost in the vast digital expanse.”

According to Abegunrin, when it comes to data management, machine and human actionability are vital, as machines can complement humans with their computational support.

The expert also highlighted the significance of data reusability, stating that it saves resources, energy, and costs associated with novel data collection.

He emphasised that FAIR data can enhance research and development, improve transparency, and build trust in governance.

Abegunrin acknowledged challenges in adopting FAIR data principles in Nigeria, including awareness, data sharing culture, privacy, security, and technical infrastructure.

However, he remained optimistic about the country’s potential to overcome these hurdles with a concerted effort from both the government and private sector.

“The importance of data reusability cannot be underestimated, as it is sustainable and has far-reaching applicable means. FAIR data has the potential to save cost, energy and other resources on novel data collection,” the analyst noted.