By Favour Olorunfemi
The federal government has committed to closing digital divides in the nation by implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Big Data, and the Internet of Things (IoT), along with other technological advancements. Minister of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, announced that the government will leverage these modern technologies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as outlined by the United Nations for developing countries. Tijani made these remarks at a stakeholders workshop held at the Digital Economy Complex in Mbora, Abuja, in preparation for the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) summit in September.
Tijani was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Engr Faruk Yabo. The workshop had the theme: “Stakeholders’ Workshop to Review Nigeria’s Statement to the Global Digital Compact (GDC).”The Minister said Nigeria would focus on “digital transformation and digital revolution which are largely informed by the megatrends such as climate change, which many countries of the world are confronted with, including desert encroachment, Covid-19 pandemics, global conflicts and economic meltdown.”
A statement signed by the Head of Media in the Ministry, Kania Maliki Andeyaba, quoted the minister as saying that “technology stands out as a pivotal piece of solution that will help to deal with the myriad of issues.”
“Nigeria must engage with the global movement to accelerate access expansion and close the digital divide, ensuring inclusivity through the adoption of AI, Robotics, IoT, Big Data, and more,” stated the Minister. He emphasized that Nigeria will prioritize closing all digital gaps, accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, and broadening the inclusivity and benefits of the digital economy for everyone. The Minister also underscored that these efforts will promote an inclusive, open, safe, and secure digital environment that respects, protects, and upholds human rights.And while advancing equitable and interpretable data governance, it would also enhance international governance of artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies for the benefit of humanity.