Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, says there is a need for Nigeria to join the global movement towards a future driven by technological advancements.
The minister said this recently at a stakeholders’ workshop organised by his ministry to prepare Nigeria for the upcoming Summit of the Future at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2024.
The workshop was to review the zero draft document outlining Nigeria’s stance on the Global Digital Compact (GDC) ahead of the summit.
Tijani, who was represented by Faruk Yusuf Yabo, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, stressed the importance of Nigeria’s participation in the UN’s efforts to close the digital divide and promote a safe and secure digital space.
“Our contributions to the overall policy-making process of the UN will enable us to highlight what we have achieved and also show our unified position on the Global Digital Compact’s future Summit.”
According to him, the key point that will occupy discussion is ‘Digital Transformation and Digital Revolution,’ which are largely informed by megatrends such as climate change, which many countries in the world are confronted with, including desert encroachment, COVID-19 pandemics, global conflicts, and economic meltdown.
The minister described technology as a pivotal piece of solution that will help to deal with the myriad of issues in Nigeria.
Ronald Kayanja, the Country Director for Nigeria at the United Nations Information Centre, highlighted the significance of the GDC in addressing the global digital divide, particularly in Africa. (GBN)
