The Minister of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has revealed the Federal Government’s intention to increase the contribution of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 21 percent within the next two to three years.
He made this announcement on Monday at the Public Servant Training Institute in Kubwa, Abuja, during the launch of a training program for Data Protection Officers.
Tijani noted that the ICT sector currently contributes between 14 per cent and 16 per cent to the nation’s GDP and stressed the administration’s commitment to positioning the digital economy as a central driver of growth.
He said, “This sector is contributing anywhere between 14 –16 per cent to Nigeria’s GDP. Under this administration, in the next two to three years, our projection is that we will be able to take this to 21 per cent, which means it will continue to be important.”
He further expressed optimism that the government’s heavy investment in ICT infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation would significantly boost productivity and economic growth.
“As a nation, we are prioritising investment in digital economy, that is why we are investing in fibre optic network in the country to ensure that we connect all of our people, that is why we are making the drive to ensure that we can transform government services using technology, it is why we are pushing artificial intelligence to ensure that we can use this modern technology to help increase productivity,” he said.
The minister acknowledged the vulnerabilities associated with increased connectivity and called for stronger measures to safeguard citizens.
“The more connected we are, the more vulnerable we are. It is crucial for the government to protect its people,” he said.
Tijani also underlined the importance of a digital economy, stating, “There is no prosperity for any nation without a digital economy.”
He further urged the beneficiaries of the national certification training programme to take the training seriously as there is a huge global opportunity for such skills.
The minister’s remarks were echoed by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who highlighted the administration’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians.
Olawande said the ministry is recalibrating its mandate to foster collaboration with other government agencies and create opportunities for youth in entrepreneurship and innovation, which will help boost the economy.
He also said that the ministry plans to develop an initiative that will foster a relationship between the police and the youth in Nigeria.
Also, speaking at the event, the National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Vincent Olatunji, announced that 500 participants would undergo certification as Data Protection Officers.
