Minister commends contribution of Tech companies to economic development

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has expressed commendation for the noteworthy contributions made by technology companies to Nigeria’s economy.

Recognizing Nigeria as a substantial market for some of the world’s largest tech firms, the Minister emphasized the pivotal role these companies play in shaping and supporting the nation’s economic landscape. Their contributions have been instrumental in driving growth, fostering innovation, and creating employment opportunities within the country.

The minister’s position was contained in a statement by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ekaete Umo.

He spoke at the 11th Regular Meeting of the National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) in Kano State on the theme “Leveraging Digital Technology and Innovation to drive Nigeria’s Economic Growth and Development.”

According to the minister, Nigeria has maintained its reputation as the country with the largest number of talented individuals in Africa, making significant contributions to the Nigerian economy over the years.

“We are proud to have some of the largest companies such as MTN, the biggest market in the world, Airtel, the second largest market and IHS as the fifth largest company based in Nigeria. These companies have added immense value to the country’s economy,” he said.

The minister stated that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is focused on equipping the youth with essential technical skills to foster wealth creation, address crime, and alleviate poverty. He emphasized Nigeria’s abundant natural resources and growing population as valuable assets that should be harnessed for the nation’s prosperity.

He encouraged all stakeholders to facilitate the integration of people with digital technology, enabling them to access diverse opportunities.

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“Our contribution from this sector is not just the taxes from the ICT or communication companies that our contributions can be measured. It should be how we use technology to change lives, deliver result-oriented services to people in the areas of health, agriculture, education, and to raise the level of productivity for the workforce to thrive.” The minister stated.

Tijani emphasized the importance of substantial investments in fibre optic networks for Nigerians, highlighting the associated benefits of providing citizens with access to top-notch internet connectivity. He noted that such networks would enable people to connect globally, fostering positive transformations in their lives.

According to Tijani, it is crucial to centre the conversation around the Right of Way (RoW), as it plays a pivotal role in enabling the development of robust technology infrastructure.

“The big task for all stakeholders is how to connect all schools in the states, all medical facilities and government offices.” He added.

The minister urged Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd. (NIGCOMSAT), National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) to enhance their efforts in this regard.

As the third leading destination for tech startups in Africa, he urged Nigerian leaders to implement policies conducive to the tech ecosystem. Such measures would encourage innovators and entrepreneurs to contribute to economic growth, address challenges, increase tax contributions, and attract foreign investments.