To speed up Nigeria’s digital transformation, the Federal Government has unveiled plans to upgrade digital infrastructure and incorporate AI for the country’s development. Led by Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy Dr. Bosun Tijani, these measures reflect the government’s priority of putting Nigeria on a path to global digital economy leadership.
Digital infrastructure fund to revolutionize internet connectivity
Among the various initiatives introduced is the Digital Infrastructure Fund, which is meant to improve internet performance and affordability in the country as a whole. This move aims to resolve the current all-nation connectivity problem by laying fiber optic cables deeply into the land. The Minister mentioned that this project will level up internet access and lower costs so that everyone will be connected regardless of their place of residence.
The Digital Infrastructure Fund complements the Federal Government’s initiative by adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool of societal development. The upcoming National Artificial Intelligence Strategy Workshop, which will bring together top technology leaders, including Meta, Google, Microsoft, and MasterCard, shows that Nigeria is dedicated to the African future of AI design. The workshop will help to develop collaboration, innovation, and knowledge transfer among critical sectors to recognize transformational AI opportunities.
Government’s proactive approach to technological advancement
Dr. Bosun Tijani emphasized the government’s proactive stance in adopting emerging technologies like AI, citing its potential to revolutionize various sectors. By setting out clear policies and governance systems, the government drives AI use with the aim of optimizing its advantages and minimizing risks.
Also, the government is planning to simplify government operations by setting a single entry point that will provide one portal for various government services. The project will help strengthen service efficiency, transparency, and accessibility for businesses, making Nigeria the leading digital country on the African continent.
Through these initiatives being enacted, Dr. Bosun Tijani projected that there would be major improvements in Nigeria’s technology sector over the next 24 months. Through the strategic allocation of resources to digital infrastructure development and by exploring possibilities of artificial intelligence, the government is committed to lifting Nigeria to the digital future.
The launch of the Digital Infrastructure Fund and the forthcoming National Artificial Intelligence Strategy Workshop bear witness to Nigeria’s voyage to digital transformation. By following an active plan of action with tactical investments in its technology, the Federal Government can unleash technology’s phenomenal potential, fostering economic prosperity, innovation, and societal progress across the country.
