By Olakunle Oke
The Federal Government has announced plans to invest ₦12 billion in digital economy research projects aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s global standing in the digital landscape and ensuring the nation benefits from the opportunities of digital transformation.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, disclosed this during the 18th International Conference on Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance (ICEGOV) held in Abuja.
Dr. Tijani said the government’s investment would support three major research clusters hosted by six universities each across the country. These clusters will focus on artificial intelligence, digital connectivity, and digital skills and literacy.
“The Nigerian government is not just doing this as a show because immediately after ICEGOV last year, we funded over 55 research projects,” he said. “At the moment, we are putting together about ₦12 billion to fund further research projects focused on the digital economy.”
He explained that the initiative is designed to deepen Nigeria’s research capacity and provide a strong foundation for inclusive digital development.
Dr. Tijani emphasized that digital technologies are now central to human progress, adding that no nation can achieve sustainable development without fully embracing them. He noted that platforms like ICEGOV help countries explore emerging technologies responsibly and shape policies that balance innovation with societal needs.
The Minister also highlighted that Nigeria’s active participation in the 2024 edition of ICEGOV earned it the right to host the 2025 conference, further solidifying the country’s leadership in Africa’s digital transformation agenda.
Chair of the ICEGOV Steering Committee, Ms. Elsa Estevez, in her remarks, called for stronger global cooperation in managing the impact of artificial intelligence and other emerging digital technologies.
“In the past years, we have been profoundly affected by digitally driven innovations, and we often adapt them without much reflection,” she said. “Such innovations dramatically change how we interact socially, work, and complement our capacities.”
Estevez stressed that innovation must remain people-centred and ethical, urging governments to engage citizens actively in shaping public policies and countering misinformation. She added that securing the digital public space requires a combination of regulation, education, and awareness built on sound information ethics.
