From January 22nd to 26th, 2024, I had the privilege of joining fellow leaders, technocrats, and policymakers at the 11th National Council Meeting on Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy held in the historic city of Kano. Representing Niger State alongside my dedicated team—the Permanent Secretary, Directors, and other senior officials—we stepped into this critical convening with a shared goal: to push the boundaries of our nation’s digital transformation agenda.
A Council That Shapes the Nation’s Digital Trajectory
Themed “Leveraging Digital Technology and Innovation to Drive Nigeria’s Economic Growth and Development,” the Council served as the country’s top advisory platform on digital policy. It brought together delegates from across all 36 states under the coordination of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
What struck me most was the diversity of perspectives and the unity of purpose—we were all aligned on one central truth: Nigeria’s future is digital, and the time to act is now.
Amplifying Niger State’s Voice
Throughout the week, I actively contributed to discussions that touched on everything from broadband penetration to innovation hubs and digital inclusion. As part of our interventions, I strongly advocated for a waiver on Right-of-Way (RoW) fees for fibre optic deployment—particularly for companies with a local presence in their host states. For us in Niger, this isn’t just policy—it’s a pathway to accelerating digital infrastructure, lowering the cost of internet access, and ultimately connecting our rural communities.
Connectivity for All, Not Just the Few
Another key part of our agenda was broadband equity. I made the case that high-speed internet should not remain a luxury for urban centres—it must be a lifeline for everyone, from the city to the village. Without affordable and reliable broadband, we can’t truly talk about inclusive education, digital health, or economic empowerment.
Championing Local Content and Indigenous Innovation
I also took time to highlight the need to promote local content in ICT. Nigeria is rich in talent, culture, and creativity—but we must create the digital infrastructure and market access needed for our creators to thrive. From apps that speak our languages to platforms that reflect our realities, investing in indigenous content is key to both cultural relevance and economic growth.
Learning from Each Other: The ICT Peer Review
One of the more enriching experiences was participating in the ICT Peer Review, where each state shared its flagship initiatives. It was heartening to see the innovations coming out of different corners of the country—and also an opportunity to share what we’re building in Niger State, from youth-focused innovation hubs to our unified data initiatives.
Looking Ahead: A United Digital Vision
This Council reminded me once again that progress thrives on collaboration. No state can go it alone, and no idea is too small when we are collectively pushing toward a digital Nigeria. As we wrapped up the sessions and forged new alliances, I felt reassured that we’re not just talking about the future—we’re actively building it.
At the heart of it all is a belief I hold deeply: Technology must serve the people. And every effort we make today—every fibre cable laid, every policy drafted, every young innovator supported—is a brick in the foundation of a more inclusive, prosperous, and digitally empowered Nigeria.
