Government Approved Tariff Increase to Support Telecoms Growth -Minister

The Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani announced that the Federal Government has approved a 50% tariff hike for telecommunications companies to sustain and develop the industry. The new tariff is aimed at enabling telecom operators to invest in infrastructure and improve connectivity across the nation.

The minister made this statement at the maiden Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN) Summit held on Saturday in Ibadan. The event, themed “The Rain of Transformation is Upon Us: CEOs Arise,” brought together industry leaders and stakeholders to discuss technological progress in Nigeria.

Addressing the audience, Tijani urged Nigerian youths to drive innovation, emphasising that the government’s role is to provide the infrastructure needed for progress.

He stated, “The biggest challenge for governments is individuals. As we invest in infrastructure to drive the progress of technology, we need innovators, entrepreneurs, and individuals to actually build the technologies.”

Tijani also praised Dr Olusola Ayoola, the founder of RAIN, for his contributions to Nigeria’s technological development.

“Without folks like him and the work they are doing in the ICT terrain, it will be difficult for Nigeria to develop technologically. Governments cannot build the progress we want. What governments can do is lay the foundation for that progress,” he added.

The minister highlighted the transformative potential of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI), noting their importance in shaping Nigeria’s future. “The productivity and prosperity that nations seek will come from the smart application of AI,” Tijani remarked.

He further expressed optimism about the work being done by RAIN, stating, “With what RAIN is building, we will start to see more direct applications coming from the innovation that young people are driving. Our role is to continue to support these efforts.”

Chief Aderemi Oseni, Special Guest and Chairman of the House Committee on the Federal Road Maintenance Agency, stressed the importance of identifying and developing technological capacities among youths. He argued that creating opportunities in technology could significantly reduce youth unemployment.

Also Read: Tariff Review: Nigerian Telecom Operators Warn of Service Shutdowns

Former CEO of First Bank of Nigeria, Dr Adesola Adeduntan, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the transformative impacts of robotics and AI on business operations.

“Robotics and AI have revolutionised decision-making, improved efficiency, reduced operational costs, and delivered personalised services to customers,” he said.

Bayo Akande, Senior Special Assistant to the Oyo State Governor on ICT and e-Governance, highlighted the state’s technological strides. He noted that Oyo State had invested significantly in building robotics and AI hubs for educational purposes, ensuring an enabling environment for technological transformation.

Dr Olusola Ayoola, Convener and CEO of RAIN described the summit as a platform to unite young Nigerian entrepreneurs and innovators. He emphasised that Nigeria can leverage advanced technologies like AI and robotics to achieve prosperity if harnessed effectively.

“RAIN has a network in about 50 institutions across Nigeria, aimed at advancing tech development through AI and robotics. Policy direction should focus on making AI and robotics learning accessible to youths, supported by local experts as trainers,” Ayoola said.

The summit concluded with awards of excellence presented to the Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, and Justice Ruqayat Ayoola, the mother of RAIN’s CEO.

NAN/Chidimma Gold