Emmanuel OchayiIn a strategic move aimed at propelling Nigeria into the forefront of global technological innovation, Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has unveiled his mission to secure partnerships in three critical areas of technology during the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 78).
Tijani’s agenda, outlined in a document titled ‘Driving Nigeria’s Economic Growth through Global Partnerships in Innovation and Technology,’ revolves around three pillars: the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), AI Training, and Economic Diversification through Technology.
Speaking about his participation at UNGA 78, Minister Tijani emphasized the significance of Nigeria’s role as a technological hub, poised at the intersection of innovation and sustainable development.
He noted that this year’s UNGA presents a unique opportunity for Nigeria to align its strategies with the global community.
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Connectivity, AI, and Diversification: Nigeria’s Tech Priorities
Minister Tijani expounded on the three core agendas that will be the centerpiece of his involvement in the global event. In his own words:
“As we embark on a busy week alongside global leaders and partners, I want to shed light on the top priorities guiding my participation.
Expanding the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF)
The Minister stressed the importance of connectivity as a driver of progress. Nigeria aims to bridge the digital divide by seeking partnerships that can enhance the USPF. The ultimate goal is to connect countless unserved and underserved communities, ensuring that every Nigerian can reap the benefits of the digital revolution.
Positioning Nigeria as a Hub for AI Training
Tijani highlighted Nigeria’s abundant talent, potential, and innovation. The country aspires to become a premier destination for AI model training, promising not only significant job creation but also a commitment to inclusive and robust AI datasets. The aim is to capture the nuances of dark data from the global south, making AI solutions resonate with diverse lived experiences.
Accelerating Economic Diversification through Technology
The Minister reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of economic diversification powered by technological applications. The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy seeks partnerships that can attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) into Nigerian startups, bolstering the entrepreneurial ecosystem and paving the way for sustainable growth.
Tijani emphasized that collaboration with global leaders and stakeholders is the key to ushering in a brighter, more inclusive digital future for Nigeria.
He views this as an opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s global connections, stay attuned to emerging trends, and co-create pathways that can elevate the nation’s prosperity.
The 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 78) in New York will hold the High-Level General Debate from September 19 to September 23, 2023, under the theme, “Rebuilding Trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability for all.”
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