Sifte Radio

Tag: digital infrastructure

  • Opposition Grows as Data Centre Expansion Accelerates Across Canada

    Opposition Grows as Data Centre Expansion Accelerates Across Canada

    Opposition is mounting across Canada as the country prepares for a significant expansion in data centre capacity, with critics raising concerns over energy demand, environmental impacts, and pressure on local infrastructure. The rapid growth is being driven by increasing demand for artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and digital services.

    Technology companies and investors are planning major data centre projects across several provinces to support the country’s growing digital economy. These facilities are expected to play a critical role in powering AI applications, cloud storage, financial services, and other data-intensive technologies.

    However, the proposed expansion has sparked concerns among local communities, environmental organizations, and some policymakers. Critics argue that large-scale data centres consume substantial amounts of electricity and water for cooling, potentially placing additional strain on power grids, water resources, and municipal infrastructure.

    Supporters of the projects contend that expanding Canada’s data centre capacity will attract investment, create jobs, strengthen the country’s technology sector, and position Canada as a leading destination for AI and cloud computing infrastructure. Industry leaders also point to advancements in energy-efficient technologies and the increasing use of renewable energy to reduce the environmental footprint of modern facilities.

    Provincial governments are expected to play a key role in determining how future projects are approved, balancing economic development with environmental sustainability and long-term energy planning. Regulatory reviews and public consultations are likely to shape the pace and scale of future expansion.

    As demand for digital infrastructure continues to grow, the debate over data centre development is expected to remain a major policy issue, with governments, businesses, and communities seeking solutions that support innovation while protecting natural resources and maintaining reliable energy supplies.

    Swifteradio.com

  • Nigeria Loses Estimated $850 Million Annually Due to Weak Digital Identity System, NiRA Says

    Nigeria Loses Estimated $850 Million Annually Due to Weak Digital Identity System, NiRA Says

    The Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) has stated that Nigeria is losing an estimated $850 million annually due to weaknesses in its digital identity infrastructure, highlighting the urgent need for stronger identification systems to support economic growth and digital transformation.

    According to NiRA, inadequate digital identity coverage continues to create significant barriers to financial inclusion, e-commerce expansion, cybersecurity, public service delivery, and broader participation in the digital economy.

    The organization noted that a robust digital identity framework is critical for verifying individuals and businesses online, reducing fraud, improving trust in digital transactions, and enabling access to essential services.

    Industry experts argue that the absence of a fully integrated and widely adopted digital identity system limits opportunities for innovation and economic development in one of Africa’s largest economies.

    Digital identity systems play an increasingly important role in modern economies by facilitating secure access to banking services, healthcare, government programs, telecommunications, and digital commerce platforms.

    NiRA emphasized that strengthening digital identity infrastructure could help unlock new economic opportunities, attract investment, and improve the efficiency of both public and private sector services.

    The organization also highlighted the growing importance of digital trust as Nigeria continues to expand its internet economy and embrace emerging technologies.

    Stakeholders within the technology sector have repeatedly called for improved collaboration between government agencies, financial institutions, telecommunications companies, and digital service providers to accelerate identity verification initiatives.

    Experts say weak identity systems can contribute to fraud, cybercrime, duplicate records, and difficulties in accessing formal financial services, particularly among underserved populations.

    Nigeria has made progress in recent years through national identification programs, but challenges remain regarding enrollment, integration, accessibility, and public awareness.

    Advocates believe that expanding digital identity coverage could significantly enhance financial inclusion by allowing more citizens to access banking services, digital payments, and online platforms.

    The issue has become increasingly important as governments and businesses worldwide invest in digital transformation strategies aimed at improving service delivery and economic participation.

    Technology analysts note that countries with strong digital identity ecosystems often experience faster growth in digital commerce and greater efficiency in public administration.

    NiRA urged policymakers and industry leaders to prioritize digital identity development as part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy and improve national competitiveness.

    As discussions continue, stakeholders are expected to explore policies and investments that can help bridge identity gaps and maximize the benefits of digital innovation across the country.

    Swifteradio.com