The Lagos State Government has commenced the automation of the Lagos State Indigene Certificate as part of efforts to modernise public service delivery and strengthen the verification of genuine indigeneship claims.
The initiative, driven by the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, aims to simplify the certification process, reduce human interference, and establish a more secure and transparent digital system.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement themed “Lagos State Indigene Certificate Automation: A Step Towards Modernisation,” the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, described the project as a major step toward faster and more accountable public services.
Represented by the Director, Safety Arena Clinic, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Sokunbi, Oyerinde said the digital platform replaces the old paper-based system, which was prone to delays, fraud and inefficiencies. He added that the initiative reflects the vision of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to strengthen innovation, transparency and citizen-centred governance in the state.
According to him, the new system will offer multiple benefits, including quicker processing, online tracking, enhanced data security, digital records for transparency, and improved access for vulnerable groups.
Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Hon. (Dr.) Olawale Age-Suleiman, praised the initiative and urged traditional rulers and community leaders to support accurate verification processes. He noted that many non-indigenes attempt to disguise themselves as Lagosians during employment and empowerment exercises, stressing the need for stricter authentication to preserve fairness.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Sesan Ogundeji, represented by Director of Administration and HR, Mr. Olawale Aguda, said the automation is essential as more institutions, including Lagos State University (LASU), Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) and Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), now require the certificate for admission and other official processes.
Aguda added that eligible applicants will soon be able to complete the entire certification process online without visiting government offices, noting that the rollout will be gradual and shaped by stakeholder input.
Technology partner Qista Technologies Ltd. demonstrated the forthcoming digital platform, highlighting features such as QR-coded certificates, cryptographic authentication, multi-factor login, AI-powered document screening, automated notifications, integrated payments and a real-time dashboard for monitoring applications across all local governments.
The company assured stakeholders of strong data protection measures, including restricted access, role-based permissions and full audit trails to prevent misuse. An implementation roadmap and impact indicators were also presented to guide deployment and eliminate false indigeneship claims while safeguarding the cultural heritage of Lagos State
