In a bid to boost Nigeria’s economic growth, the Minister of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, revealed the government’s goal to increase the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector’s contribution to the nation’s GDP to 21% within the next two to three years. Currently, ICT accounts for 14% to 16% of Nigeria’s GDP.
Speaking at the launch of a Data Protection Officers’ training program at the Public Servant Training Institute in Kubwa, Abuja, Dr. Tijani highlighted the administration’s dedication to transforming the digital economy into a key driver of prosperity. “Our goal is to significantly raise the ICT sector’s contribution, recognizing its crucial role in modernizing our economy,” he said.
The minister pointed out that the government’s ongoing investments in ICT infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital transformation initiatives would enhance productivity across various sectors.
“By prioritizing digital economy investments—such as expanding the national fiber optic network and leveraging AI—we aim to provide a foundation for sustainable economic growth,” Tijani stated.
He also acknowledged the increased vulnerability that comes with heightened connectivity and emphasized the need for robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard citizens. “As we embrace greater connectivity, we must ensure the protection of our people and data,” he said.
In addition, Tijani called attention to the global opportunities available to individuals trained in data protection and digital skills, urging program beneficiaries to take their certifications seriously. The government’s commitment to a digital economy, he noted, was a crucial element in driving national prosperity.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, echoed Tijani’s sentiments, stressing the administration’s focus on empowering young Nigerians.
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He emphasized the ministry’s renewed efforts to foster collaboration across government agencies, create youth entrepreneurship opportunities, and support innovation-driven economic growth.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, also shared exciting news: 500 Nigerians will begin training as certified Data Protection Officers (DPOs).
Although the original target for last year was 3,000 DPOs, budgetary constraints led to a scaled-back number. However, Olatunji remained optimistic, stating that the free certification program would address past challenges, particularly the prohibitive costs that deterred many potential participants.
Nigeria, with one of the world’s most progressive data protection laws, is positioning itself at the forefront of global data security.
The certification program, aimed at meeting the growing demand for qualified DPOs from more than 500,000 registered data controllers, is a key part of the government’s strategy to secure its digital future.
The event attracted a number of notable figures, including Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA); Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director of NigComSat; and CP Uche Ifeanyi Henry, Commissioner of Police for the National Cybersecurity Centre.
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