Why Nigeria’s telecom tariff hike is key to boosting digital growth – Minister
In a bid to sustain Nigeria’s telecommunications industry and foster technological progress, the Federal Government has approved a significant 50% tariff hike for telecom companies.
This increase, according to Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, is crucial for ensuring the continued investment in infrastructure and improved connectivity across the country.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, during his address at the inaugural Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN) summit in Ibadan, explained that the tariff hike was essential to enable telecom companies to invest in new infrastructure, which would ultimately enhance connectivity and support Nigeria’s technological evolution.
The summit, held on Saturday with the theme “The Rain of Transformation is upon us: CEOs Arise,” gathered various stakeholders in the tech and innovation space to discuss Nigeria’s digital future.
Tijani emphasized that for Nigeria to make real strides in technology, it would require more than just government investments. “The biggest challenge for governments is individuals, as we invest in infrastructure to drive the progress of technology,” Tijani stated.
He further called on Nigerian youths to take the lead in technological innovation, suggesting that government could only lay the foundation for the country’s digital transformation, while entrepreneurs and innovators would be the ones to drive it forward.
READ ALSO: NCC okays 50% tariff hike for telecom operators
The Minister also acknowledged the efforts of Dr. Olusola Ayoola, the founder of RAIN, for his contributions to the ICT sector in Nigeria. Tijani praised Ayoola for his work in helping to put Ibadan on the map as a hub for technological advancement. “Without folks like him, it will be difficult for Nigeria to develop technologically,” the Minister added.
The future of robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Nigeria, according to Tijani, holds immense potential. He noted that the prosperity and productivity that nations strive for will depend largely on the smart application of AI, which is already being developed by the country’s youth through initiatives like RAIN.
Tijani’s remarks were echoed by other prominent figures at the summit. Chief Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House Committee on the Federal Road Maintenance Agency, highlighted the critical importance of identifying and nurturing technological talent among Nigerian youths.
He argued that empowering the youth through technology could play a significant role in reducing the country’s unemployment rate.
Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, the former CEO of First Bank of Nigeria Ltd., also spoke about the transformative power of robotics and AI, noting how these technologies are reshaping business operations, improving decision-making, and enhancing customer service across industries.
The Senior Special Assistant to Oyo State Governor on ICT and e-Governance, Mr. Bayo Akande, underscored the strides the state has made in advancing technology.
He shared that the Oyo State government had made significant investments in building a robotics and AI hub aimed at educational purposes and fostering tech development. Akande reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting technological growth in Nigeria.
Earlier in the event, Dr. Olusola Ayoola, the CEO and convener of RAIN, reflected on the purpose of the summit, which was to unite young people and entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s growing tech community.
He emphasized the country’s vast potential in the field of AI and robotics, urging stakeholders to support the development of local content and training resources to better equip the youth for the digital economy.
The summit also recognized outstanding contributions in the tech sector with awards presented to Dr. Bosun Tijani and Justice Ruqayat Ayoola, the mother of the RAIN CEO. The event concluded with a renewed sense of optimism about Nigeria’s role in the future of global technological innovation.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va74ZvU2v1IqKByXoX3d
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com