Nigeria is on track to transform into a trillion-dollar economy despite initial challenges, according to Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy. Speaking yesterday at the Public Servant Training Institute in Kubwa, Abuja, Tijani projected substantial economic growth within the next two years, driven significantly by the information and communications technology (ICT) sector.
Tijani highlighted that 21% of Nigeria’s anticipated GDP growth will come from the ICT sector, attributing the expansion to strategic investments in technology and innovation under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. The administration, he said, is prioritizing the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation of government services, citizen access to digital healthcare, and support for entrepreneurship and innovation.
“The Nigerian economy will soon surpass a trillion dollars, not just due to the size of its population and youthful vibrancy, but because of forward-thinking policies that foster innovation and inclusivity,” Tijani stated.
The event marked the launch of training programs for 500 Data Protection Officers (DPOs) under the National Certification for Data Protection initiative for Nigeria and West Africa. Tijani urged participants to maximize the opportunity, emphasizing the critical role of data protection in the country’s digital economy.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), disclosed that while 3,000 officers were initially slated for training, financial constraints reduced the number to 500. He noted that the certification process, which costs $2,000 per officer, is globally recognized and will unlock significant job opportunities worldwide.
Minister of Youth Affairs, Ayodele Olawande, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the government’s recalibrated approach to youth development. He revealed plans for deeper collaborations across ministries, agencies, and departments to foster inclusiveness and create economic opportunities for young Nigerians.
The event underscores the administration’s commitment to leveraging ICT and innovation to propel Nigeria’s economy and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
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