Tag: Bosun Tijani

The Minister of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani has provided a clarification on his comments that bandits evade security surveillance due to advanced technology deployed by them. 

Dr Tijani in a statement issued in Abuja said the Channels Television interview was largely focused on the progress and impact of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme designed to recalibrate Nigeria’s digital economy journey in line with global best standards and practices.

He explained that the interventions and investments of the administration of President Bola Tinubu were to ensure that the country was not left behind in anyway in the digital ecosystem. 

Tijani said he spoke in response to questions about “gaps in digital infrastructures and connectivity in some parts of the country (which) represent a development and security vulnerability.”

The Minister had during an interview with Channels Television’s Politics Today aired at the Weekend alluded to the deployment of advanced technology by bandits to evade security surveillance.

Tijani encouraged Nigerians to watch the full video of the interview to enable them understand the full context of the conversation. 

The Minister said, “Over the past two days, there has been significant public discussion around a comment I made during an interview on Channels Television. 

“I would like to clarify the intention behind that part of the conversation and encourage everyone to watch the full interview-which was largely focused on the progress and impact of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme.

“In responding to a question during the interview, my objective was to explain that gaps in digital infrastructure and connectivity in some parts of the country represent a development and security vulnerability. 

“These gaps limit economic opportunity, restrict access to services, and weaken coordination and inclusion.

“This is precisely why the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is making historic investments in digital infrastructure to ensure no part of Nigeria is left behind.

“These efforts include: Project Bridge, a 90,000-kilometre national fibre-optic backbone that will connect every geo-political zone, state, and local government area, and provide the foundation for ubiquitous connectivity.

“The deployment of 3,700 new telecom towers to unserved and underserved communities, which will enable over 23 million Nigerians who are currently unconnected to access reliable communication services.

“The strengthening of NigComSat, including the replacement of its current satellite and the launch of two new communication satellites, to further enhance national coverage and resilience”.

The Minister said the investments by the government would deepen connectivity across the country, strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy, and ensure that digital infrastructure contributes meaningfully to economic prosperity, inclusion, and national development.

“My comments were made in this context — to highlight why closing connectivity gaps matters, and how this administration is deliberately working to address them,” Dr Tijani asserted. 

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, continued to consolidate on his digital transformation and training policy at the weekend by ensuring that no fewer than 438 civil servants received training from Korean digital experts who flew into the country last week.

The 438 civil servants were drawn from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the Federal Government.

The training, which took place at the Digital Economy Complex, Mbora, Abuja, was held in partnership with Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

It had the theme: “Enabling Digital Government Transformation: Leadership, Training and Citizen-Centric Systems.”

The event was part of the monthly ‘DevsInGovernment programme’ developed by the Minister to accelerate the digital economy and deepen digital inclusion in the ways and manners government services are delivered.

William Scheffers, a Director at TG Consulting, who spoke on the topic: “Strategies for IT Training in Digital Government Transformation”, said that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) was a necessity for government officials.

Scheffers said that without ICT skills, governments risked falling behind in delivering efficient and secure services.

He said, “Governments are under pressure to digitise services and improve citizen experience. ICT training ensures that staff can operate, maintain and innovate with new systems.

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“Skills gaps lead to inefficiencies, data risks and wasted investments in IT. Trained officials are more adaptable in responding to new policy and citizen needs.”

He further said ICT training challenges in government circles would lower digital skills, noting that resistance to contemporary digital changes would undermine ICT upskilling.

According to him, cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and cloud adoption would help in shaping ICT training for civil servants.

Scheffers, who shared his vast experience in the digital ecosystem with the civil servants, urged them not to be left behind in the present circumstances, emphasising that adoption of digital tools “demands smarter, faster and more practical training.”

Scheffers said the global rise in cyber threats makes cybersecurity training essential, not only to their respective jobs, but personal experiences.

“Data analytics and AI literacy are increasingly demanded in policy design and execution.

“There is a shift toward microlearning, online platforms and hybrid delivery,” he said. And enjoined the civil servants to take maximum advantage of the training programme.

Earlier, the Deputy Director of Korea Institute for Development Strategy (KDS), Myeongseok Song, said the training focused on introducing Korea and its government, and sharing knowledge, innovation and achievements over the years.

Song said Korea’s new strategy was for citizens, enterprises and governments to solve issues together and create new value through a digital platform which connects all their data.

“We just want to talk about the digital, the government, the advanced AI, and eventually, we expect to make more advanced perspectives and ideas for the government,” he said.

One of the beneficiaries, Adetokunbo Adebola, Head of the Data Strategy and Research Department for the Vice-Chairman, Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, described the training as appropriate and timely for civil servants in the country.

Adebola commended the Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, for his efforts and the push to bring some programmes that would help the citizens in terms of digital literacy and development. 

The Time Magazine has named the Minister of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, one of its 100 Artificial Intelligence (AI)  global personalities for 2025.

The minister was named alongside Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and many others for their contributions to the development of AI and its impacts globally.

A statement by the Minister’s Media Office in Abuja noted that the list recognised the 100 most influential people in Artificial Intelligence at the global level.

To assemble the list, the statement said, Time’s editors and reporters examined the key stories in AI over the past year and consulted with expert sources and industry leaders for recommendations.

“The result is a list of 100 leaders, innovators, shapers, and thinkers who have a stake in the future of AI.

“Dr. Tijani’s inclusion on the prestigious list reflects Nigeria’s growing leadership in advancing Artificial Intelligence for inclusive and sustainable development.

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“From the National AI Strategy (NAIS), where the ministry got over 120 experts of Nigerian descent to co-create the long-term strategy for the responsible use and development of AI; to research and demonstration initiatives showing the potentials and practical use cases for AI in critical sectors like healthcare, agriculture, education, and financial inclusion.

“With the support of partners, like Google, the Gates Foundation, and others, Nigeria is facilitating the scaling of mature AI solutions from local innovators — providing resources, mentorship, and support necessary to translate ideas into impact.”

Reacting to the list, Dr. Tijani said: “This recognition from TIME further validates our belief that Nigeria can stand as a global leader in the responsible and inclusive deployment of AI for increased productivity.

“As we continue on this journey, my commitment remains clear: to ensure AI not only drives innovation, but also contributes to building a $1trillion economy as envisioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

“With this global recognition, Nigeria reinforces its commitment to leveraging AI to create opportunities for its citizens and contribute to the advancement of responsible technology worldwide.”

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has expressed concern over the persistent lack of trust in government policies among Nigerians, calling for a shift in public perception through the deployment of technology-driven solutions.

Speaking over the weekend at a one-day stakeholders’ workshop held at Bon Hotel, Jahi, Abuja, Dr. Tijani stressed that despite several progressive initiatives by the current administration, such as the Students Loan Fund (NELFUND) and digital training programmes that provide laptops for young Nigerians—many citizens still believe such benefits are reserved for those with government connections.

To address this skepticism, the Minister highlighted the need for seamless and inclusive access to government services through the use of cutting-edge digital technologies.

He announced the launch of the Nigeria Web Design Standards (NWDS), a collaborative effort between the Ministry, the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

“The only way to eliminate this perception is to ensure that government policies and services are accessible to everyone, regardless of who they know. NWDS is not just about websites — it’s about building trust and improving service delivery,” Tijani said.

He emphasised that the NWDS project would revolutionise the way Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) interact with the public, enabling a consistent and user-friendly experience for all Nigerians, no matter their location.

Drawing inspiration from global e-governance leaders such as Finland, Estonia, and Singapore, Tijani underscored the importance of adopting technology as a tool for inclusive national development.

“There is a direct link between how technology is used in government and how much citizens trust their government,” he noted.

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He also praised the inclusive approach to the NWDS project, stating, “For the first time in Africa, citizens are co-creating national web standards—not consultants or a select few. This is a collective effort to reshape how Nigerians experience governance.”

Supporting the Minister’s remarks, NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving governance through technology.

He described the NWDS as a key step toward creating a unified and memorable digital experience across all government platforms.

 “Without a common standard, every government agency builds its website differently. This leads to inconsistencies, confusion, and inefficiencies,” said Abdullahi.

“With standardisation, we can create a repository of reusable components, making it easier for agencies to develop platforms that are citizen-centric and consistent.”

The NITDA boss hinted that the standard would eventually become mandatory through a structured policy and rule-making process for the country’s MDAs.

In his remarks, the Founder/Chairman of the Aig Imoukhuede Foundation, Mr Aig Imoukhuede, said he was impressed that the government has taken the bold step for standardisation of the country’s Web ecosystem.

Aig-Imoukhuede, who said his Foundation would support the initiative with funding, noted that the transformative potential of digital technology in delivering efficient, accessible, and trusted public services cannot be overemphasised.

He said, “Countries that have mastered digital platforms have experienced significant improvements in governance and service delivery.

 “Nigeria must do the same — by providing a single, integrated platform where citizens can access a range of services without confusion or inconsistency.”

He cited the UK government’s digital portal, for instance, saying that the importance of digital coherence and ease of navigation has helped citizens to access government services seamlessly.

He praised the Minister, Dr. Bosun Tijani, for his visionary leadership and commitment to redefining how Nigeria presents itself in the digital space.

“An effective government website is no longer optional; it is essential. It is the face of modern governance. As more Nigerians come online, digital inclusion must be prioritised, and government must be ready to meet citizens where they are — online,” Aig-Imoukhuede said.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has emerged as Vice Chair of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Council, 2025.

The election of the Minister into the Council of the International Telecommunication Union has been described as a global testament to Nigeria’s commitment to digital transformation and inclusive innovation.

According to the Deputy Director of Press in the Ministry of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Eunice Akro, the election took place in Geneva, Switzerland, against the backdrop of the ongoing ITU Conference.

The ITU, founded in 1865, is the oldest specialised United Nations (UN) agency responsible for information and communications technologies (ICTs) and is charged with a global mandate of connecting the world through innovative, inclusive and sustainable digital solutions, facilitating connectivity in communication networks.

Dr.  Tijani in acceptance of his role as Vice Chair, expressed delight stating that, “Nigeria remains committed in her resolve to support the collective mission of the ITU particularly by prioritising in its key areas such as provision of resilient and sustainable digital infrastructures, timely access by all communities especially the underserved to meaningful connectivity.”

Akro said that with the leadership position, Nigeria is poised an enhance its capacity to shape the future of digital development on the African continent and beyond.

She explained in a statement that the Minister appreciated the ITU Secretary General, Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, the management team and all member states for the trust placed on him, while pointing out that the world is presently in a defining moment, made by the accelerating pace of technological change and deep structural shifts in our societies.

Speaking further, the Minister said: “Yet we are also uniquely privileged to witness the transformative power of digital technology, a force that allows us to be more introspective, inclusive and informed as we shape the future.”

Dr. Tijani congratulated the ITU Chair, Ms. Cristiana Flutur of Romania, pledging to work closely with her to attain shared goals. He called on all to “make the ITU a beacon of inclusive innovation and trusted collaboration for today and future generations.”

The ITU Conference is currently in progress in Geneva, Switzerland.

• Talent matters more than criticism, says President

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to recognising and harnessing talent, even among his critics, as he defended his decision to appoint Dr. Bosun Tijani as Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, despite the latter’s past criticisms of his leadership.

Speaking at a special Iftar event at the State House in Abuja to mark his 73rd birthday, President Tinubu stated that his choice of Tijani was guided by merit rather than political sentiment.

“When I picked him, it was tough. My very close confidants, who had read his comments on social media, came to me and said, ‘No, never.’ But I said, ‘Yes, he is talented. Because he criticizes me and pours abuses on the parliament, it does not mean he has nothing to offer,” Tinubu said.

According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President noted that he saw something special in Tijani, adding that frustration often fuels passion and that passion can be channeled towards national development.

“Maybe his frustration at that time will drive him to contribute more to governance. And today, he is doing that, and I am very proud of him,” the President stated.

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Tijani, who had previously criticized the government and the National Assembly, shared his experience of being appointed despite his activist background.

He admitted that he expected a reprimand from the President upon their first meeting, but was instead met with encouragement.

“Before my appointment, I had never met Mr. President. But after my confirmation, he told me, ‘I have looked at your records and activism, and I have seen there is something in you. I am giving you the opportunity to represent your country and contribute to making it a better place.

“I was expecting a proper scolding because of my records, but the magnanimity of the President is one that I experienced for the very first time in my life.

“I remember that in that meeting, some people brought out my record again and told Mr. President, ‘He said this, he did this. But the President said, ‘Shut it’”, Tijani recounted.

The decision to confirm Tijani as a Minister was also met with resistance in the Senate.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio recalled a heated debate during the ministerial screening, noting that some senators were hesitant due to Tijani’s previous social media comments.

“When he came to the Senate for screening, senators said, ‘No, no, we can’t have him.’ One senator quoted from the internet where he described all Nigerian senators as ‘morons,’” Akpabio said.

However, after a private discussion, the lawmakers decided to trust President Tinubu’s judgment.

“Mr. President, we confirmed him because we knew you must have seen something special in him. You are never wrong when it comes to your judgment of people. And today, I am happy to say that he is one of the best-performing ministers in the cabinet,” Akpabio added.

The Iftar event was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, and other dignitaries.

The gathering served as an opportunity to reflect on leadership, forgiveness, and the importance of embracing diverse perspectives in governance.