Emmanuel OchayiIn a resounding call for an open and secure internet across Africa, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, asserted the Nigerian government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering innovation throughout the continent.
Speaking at the recently concluded Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF) held at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, Tijani underscored the importance of international collaboration in achieving these goals.
“The need for our consistent collaboration to develop our economy collectively is preeminent in the agenda of the current administration in Nigeria,” said Minister Tijani, addressing a virtual audience.
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He emphasized the importance of this kind of forum to bridge digital divides, enhance cybersecurity, safeguard digital rights, and promote innovation. “It is, therefore, our collective duty to ensure that the Internet remains open, safe, and beneficial for all,” he urged, addressing parliamentarians and participants from across Africa.
Tijani called upon stakeholders to prioritize a collaborative approach to shaping policies and strategies that will determine the future of the internet in Africa, one that reflects the continent’s shared values, aspirations, and diversity.
Commending the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and other agencies that constituted the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), Tijani expressed delight in the effective planning and dedication to driving change in Africa’s digital future demonstrated by these organizations.
Prof. Umar Danbatta, Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, echoed the commitment to a secure internet ecosystem within Nigeria. He highlighted Nigeria’s impressive growth in broadband penetration, basic internet usage, voice subscriptions, and contributions to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Danbatta emphasized the importance of sharing experiences with sister nations in Africa and learning from AfIGF parliamentarians to promote socio-economic development on the continent.
Dr. Mactar Seck, Chief of the Section on Innovation and Technology at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), expressed gratitude for the support and role of government entities in ensuring the success of AfIGF.
He emphasized the forum’s role in aggregating views that enable African nations to speak with one voice for the benefit of African economic development.
Honorable Samuel George of Ghana, Secretary of the African Parliamentary Network on Internet Governance, called for a free, inclusive, safe, and secure internet for all African citizens.
He stressed the need to create an enabling environment, enact suitable laws, and provide digital infrastructure to promote indigenous and local content development in technological innovation.
The AfIGF, held under the theme “Transforming Africa’s Digital Landscape: Empowering Inclusion, Security, and Innovation,” provided a platform for African countries to discuss critical issues essential for the development of a robust digital economy on the continent.
Following the event, a communique was issued, outlining resolutions and concrete recommendations. Participants were urged to ensure effective implementation when they return to their respective countries ahead of next year’s forum.
The AfIGF took place from September 19-23, 2023, and preceded the 11th Africa School of Internet Governance (AfriSIG), which occurred from September 13-18, 2023.
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