By Olakunle Oke
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to driving Africa’s digital transformation through innovation, research, and inclusive governance, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda to reform the economy and enhance digital growth.
The declaration was made by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, alongside the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, at the 18th International Conference on Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance (ICEGOV) 2025, held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.
The Rector of the United Nations University and UN Under-Secretary-General, Prof. Tschilidzi Marwala, urged the responsible and inclusive development of artificial intelligence (AI), stressing that it must work for all people, including Africans. He warned that while AI offers immense benefits, it must be guided by ethics and equality to prevent global digital divides.
In his keynote address, Dr. Tijani emphasized the need for balance between innovation, research, and regulation. He said Nigeria stands at the intersection of innovation and youth potential, adding that policies must be driven by research and ethics rather than short-term politics or profit.
He introduced the “Source Balance Ratio,” a model explaining how government, academia, civil society, and the private sector can collaboratively shape effective policies. According to him, digital transformation must prioritize inclusivity and public good over profit motives.
Echoing the Minister’s remarks, NITDA DG Kashifu Inuwa described ICEGOV 2025 as a milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward digital excellence. He outlined several national initiatives, including the National Digital Literacy Framework, the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, and the integration of digital literacy into the school curriculum.
Inuwa noted that over 24,000 civil servants have already been trained under these initiatives, underscoring Nigeria’s drive to build a digitally skilled population. He added that ongoing projects such as the National Data Exchange Platform and the Centre of Excellence for Digital Public Infrastructure are critical steps toward achieving digital self-determination for Africa.
Several dignitaries, including lawmakers and government officials, commended Nigeria’s leadership role in digital governance. They emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and ethical technology use in building trust, transparency, and efficient public service delivery.
The event reaffirmed Nigeria’s position as a leading advocate for inclusive digital transformation in Africa, setting the stage for stronger partnerships and sustainable digital development across the continent.
