Benue State Hosts the 12th NCCIDE Regular Meeting

The 12th Regular Meeting of the National Council on Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) has commenced in Makurdi, Benue State, with discussions centred on leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive Nigeria’s development.

This annual gathering serves as a crucial platform for stakeholders across Nigeria to deliberate on policies and strategies that advance the nation’s digital transformation.

The theme for this year’s conference, “Accelerating the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence through Policy and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” reflects the focus on ensuring Nigeria remains at the forefront of technological progress and digital connectivity.

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is actively participating in the 12th National Council on Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE), held in Makurdi, Benue State.

The theme of this year’s conference is “Accelerating the Adoption of… pic.twitter.com/UNz7aR9nso

— NITDA Nigeria (@NITDANigeria) December 2, 2024

The event has brought together influential thought leaders, policymakers, and experts in communications, innovation, and the digital economy to tackle critical issues shaping the country’s future. Key discussions have centred on the adoption of AI within Nigeria, exploring how AI-driven policies and innovations can contribute to the country’s sustainable development goals.

Purpose of the Meeting

The NCCIDE meeting plays a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s digital economy by fostering collaboration among stakeholders. It provides a forum for state ICT and Digital Economy Commissioners, federal representatives, industry experts, and other key players to discuss progress, challenges, and emerging trends in the sector. The ultimate goal is to ensure the sector’s policies and strategies contribute to the overall development of the country.

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Significance of the 12th Meeting

Building on the outcomes of the previous meeting held in Kano State in January 2024, this year’s gathering aims to:

Review and Update Policies: Assess existing policies on communications, innovation, and the digital economy to align with global trends and national priorities.

Promote Collaboration: Foster partnerships between federal and state governments and private sector stakeholders to strengthen the digital ecosystem.

Address Challenges: Identify and develop strategies to overcome barriers hindering the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy, such as infrastructure deficits and skill gaps.

Expected Outcomes

The meeting is expected to yield actionable recommendations, including:

Accelerating Digital Transformation: Implementing initiatives that encourage the adoption of digital technologies across various sectors.

Enhancing Innovation: Supporting the development of innovative solutions to address local challenges and drive economic growth.

Strengthening Policy Frameworks: Establishing robust policies that create a favourable environment for the digital economy to flourish.

The 12th NCCIDE meeting in Makurdi represents a significant step towards realising Nigeria’s vision of a digitally empowered society and a knowledge-based economy. By focusing on AI adoption and innovation, the event underscores the nation’s commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable development.