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The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to increase the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector’s contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 21% within the next two to three years. This ambitious goal was revealed by the Minister of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, during the launch of a training programme for Data Protection Officers at the Public Servant Training Institute in Kubwa, Abuja.
Dr. Tijani highlighted the sector’s current GDP contribution, which ranges between 14% and 16%, and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to leveraging the digital economy as a key driver of national growth.
“This sector is contributing anywhere between 14%–16% to Nigeria’s GDP. Under this administration, our projection is to increase this to 21% in the next two to three years, underscoring its significance,” Tijani stated.
He emphasized that significant investments in ICT infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation would play a vital role in achieving this target, enhancing productivity and fostering economic growth.
“We are prioritising investment in the digital economy by expanding the fibre optic network to connect more citizens, transforming government services through technology, and integrating artificial intelligence to boost productivity,” he explained.
Recognizing the risks of increased connectivity, Tijani also stressed the need for robust measures to safeguard citizens, adding:
“The more connected we are, the more vulnerable we become. It is imperative for the government to protect its people.”
The minister also highlighted the critical role of a digital economy in national prosperity, urging participants in the national Data Protection Officers certification programme to seize the opportunity, given the global demand for such expertise.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, echoed Tijani’s sentiments, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to youth empowerment. Olawande outlined plans to foster collaboration among government agencies and create opportunities in entrepreneurship and innovation for young Nigerians. He also revealed an initiative to improve relations between the police and the youth.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, announced that 500 participants would undergo certification as Data Protection Officers. He acknowledged prior budgetary constraints that hindered the initial goal of training over 3,000 officers last year but celebrated the government’s intervention to provide free certification.
“While over 55,000 Nigerians have undergone basic data protection training, they are yet to be certified. This initiative addresses the high cost of certification and ensures Nigeria remains a global leader in data safety and privacy,” Olatunji said, noting the progressive nature of Nigeria’s Data Protection Act.
Prominent figures attending the event included Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency; Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director of NigComSat; Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila, Managing Director of the Nigeria Lottery Commission; and CP Uche Ifeanyi Henry, Commissioner of Police in charge of the National Cybersecurity Centre.
The government’s efforts to prioritize ICT and data protection signal a strong commitment to driving economic transformation and fostering innovation within Nigeria’s digital economy.
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