Nigeria's
Minister for Communication and Innovation, Digital Economy, Tijani Bosun has
stressed his country's dedication to leveraging digital technology for economic
growth and social inclusion at the G20 Digital Economy Working Group Meeting in
Maceio, Brazil.
In his address
during the meeting, Dr. Bosun noted Nigeria's focus on universal and equitable
access to meaningful connectivity as a cornerstone for economic development,
social inclusion, and access to essential services, citing the success of
farmers in rural China who use digital platforms to connect with consumers,
bypass intermediaries, and command better prices.cc
To achieve
similar success, he disclosed that Nigeria is investing $2 billion in a
90,000km fibre optic network, extending its existing backbone from 35,000 to
125,000km. This project, supported by the USTDA, European Union, and other
partners, aims to boost digital economy opportunities and empower Nigerians to
participate in the global economy.
According to
him Nigeria is also prioritizing digital skills and literacy by investing in
the world's largest technical talent acceleration program and committing to
ensuring 70% of its population is digital literate by 2027. Additionally, the
National Broadband Alliance has been established to align stakeholders and
drive meaningful access for all.
The minister emphasized
Nigeria's commitment to ensuring universal benefits from digital infrastructure
investments, driving shared prosperity, and diversifying the economy. He also
announced Nigeria's commitment to localizing the DEWG proposed guidelines on
Indicators and Metrics for Universal and Meaningful Connectivity, recognizing
the need to address vast differences in large and diverse economies like
Nigeria.
This investment
will boost opportunities offered by the digital economy, grow the economy, and
empower the people, Dr. Bosun said.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
