Ogundoyin Guides Delegation to Metaverse Tech Training in China

Nigerian Delegation Explores Metaverse and Digital Innovation in China

A group of Nigerian officials, led by Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, the Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, recently traveled to China for a two-week advanced training program focused on metaverse technology and digital innovation. The initiative aimed to equip participants with knowledge and practical skills to leverage emerging technologies for governance, communication, and public service delivery.

The training program, titled Metaverse Technology Cooperation and Development Mode for Belt and Road Countries, was held in Shanghai and organized by the International Training Centre for Authorities and Leaders (CIFAL). Under the leadership of Executive Director Mr. Wu Yugang, the event brought together policymakers and administrators from around the world. The goal was to explore how new technologies are reshaping traditional systems and opening up new opportunities for development.

Key Themes and Learning Activities

Throughout the program, participants engaged in a series of academic lectures and hands-on workshops. Topics covered included Development Trends and Prospects in Metaverse Technology and Industry and Metaverse × AIGC: Generative AI Reshaping the Digital World. These sessions were facilitated by renowned professors from leading Chinese universities and industry experts, offering valuable insights into the future of digital ecosystems.

In addition to theoretical learning, the Nigerian delegation had the opportunity to visit several key technology and innovation hubs in Shanghai and Chengdu. These included SPSpace, Dunyu (Shanghai) Internet Science and Technology Co. Ltd, Shanghai Kerui Exhibition Technology Co. Ltd, China Unicom (Chengdu) Limited, Zhisheng Digital Technology Co. Ltd, and the Chengdu Huaxi Ecological Agriculture Technology Co. Ltd. These field visits provided firsthand exposure to how metaverse and artificial intelligence technologies are being applied across different sectors.

Cultural Experiences and Networking

Beyond the technical aspects, the program also included cultural activities designed to foster cross-cultural understanding. Participants explored iconic landmarks such as the Bund and Yu Garden in Shanghai, took a Huangpu River night cruise, and visited the Giant Panda Conservation and Research Centre in Dujiangyan. These experiences enriched the delegates’ understanding of China’s technological and cultural landscape.

Reflections and Future Implications

Ogundoyin described the training as “timely and transformative,” emphasizing that the metaverse and generative AI will play a central role in shaping the future of governance, education, and public service. He expressed confidence that the knowledge gained would be instrumental in driving digital policy innovation across Nigerian state legislatures.

Other members of the Nigerian delegation included Mr. Busari Sarafadeen, Director General of the Conference of Speakers, and Mrs. Taiwo Muraina Akinola, Clerk of the Oyo State House of Assembly. The team also interacted with delegations from South Africa, Gambia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Grenada, Uzbekistan, and Nepal, fostering international collaboration and shared learning.

Conclusion

Upon returning to Nigeria, the delegation is expected to use the insights and experiences gained during the program to guide the integration of metaverse technologies into legislative processes and public administration. This initiative marks an important step in Nigeria's efforts to embrace digital transformation and position itself as a leader in technological innovation within the African continent.