The Federal Government on Tuesday announced plans to invest N12 billion in research projects aimed at advancing Nigeria’s digital economy, ensuring the country maximizes the benefits of digital transformation.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, made the disclosure at the opening of the 18th International Conference on Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance (ICEGOV) in Abuja.
The four-day conference, organised by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), carries the theme: “Shaping the Future of Digital Governance Through Cooperation, Innovation, and Inclusion.”
Tijani said platforms like ICEGOV offer countries opportunities to explore emerging technologies while developing policies to guide their societal impact. He added that Nigeria’s participation in the 2024 edition of the conference had strengthened the country’s credibility, earning it the hosting rights for the 2025 edition.
“The Nigerian government is committed to action. After ICEGOV last year, we funded over 55 research projects. Currently, we are mobilizing N12 billion to support additional projects focused on the digital economy,” Tijani said.
He outlined three research clusters: one focused on artificial intelligence, another on improving national connectivity, and a third on digital skills and literacy for Nigeria’s large population.
“Digital technologies are now central to human activity. Societies that fail to integrate them remain underdeveloped. These technologies are not just economic tools; they are instruments to reshape and govern society,” he added.
Ms. Elsa Estevez, Chair of the ICEGOV Steering Committee, reflected on the conference theme, emphasizing the need for human-centered technological innovation.
“AI and related technologies have profoundly affected our lives, but we must ensure that innovation benefits societies, not just economies. Inclusion requires governments to engage citizens, moderate public discussions, and secure digital spaces against misinformation and manipulation,” she said.
Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of NITDA, said the government plans to integrate digital literacy into school curricula by 2026 to align the country’s youthful, digitally native population with national development goals.
“In Africa, our young population is digitally connected. Governments must meet them where they are. By next year, digital literacy and skills will be integrated into formal education. We are also ensuring public servants become digitally literate for more effective service delivery,” Inuwa said.
