Kehinde Fajobi
The Federal Government has unveiled plans to increase the Information and Communications Technology sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product to 21 per cent within the next two to three years.
Dr Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, disclosed this on Monday during the launch of a training programme for Data Protection Officers at the Public Servant Training Institute in Kubwa, Abuja.
“This sector is contributing anywhere between 14–16 per cent to Nigeria’s GDP. Under this administration, in the next two to three years, our projection is that we will be able to take this to 21 per cent, which means it will continue to be important,” Tijani stated.
He expressed optimism that heavy investments in ICT infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation would enhance productivity and foster economic growth.
“As a nation, we are prioritising investment in the digital economy. That is why we are investing in fibre optic networks to connect our people, transforming government services using technology, and advancing artificial intelligence to increase productivity,” he said.
Highlighting the risks of increased connectivity, Tijani emphasised the importance of safeguarding citizens.
“The more connected we are, the more vulnerable we are. It is crucial for the government to protect its people,” he noted, adding, “There is no prosperity for any nation without a digital economy.”
Tijani urged participants in the national certification programme to seize the opportunity, citing the global demand for data protection skills.
His remarks were echoed by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who stressed the administration’s commitment to youth empowerment through entrepreneurship and innovation.
“The ministry is recalibrating its mandate to foster collaboration with other government agencies and create opportunities for young Nigerians,” Olawande said.
He also mentioned plans to develop initiatives to strengthen relationships between the police and the youth.
Dr Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, announced that 500 participants would undergo certification as Data Protection Officers.
He revealed that although 3,000 officers were initially slated for training last year, budgetary constraints hindered the plan.
“Our projection was to train over 3,000 Nigerians as certified DPOs last year, but due to budgetary constraints, we were not able to do so. But the good thing is that we are starting, and we are starting with 500,” Olatunji said.
He explained that over 55,000 Nigerians have undergone basic data protection training but are yet to be certified. The government has now stepped in to make certification free, addressing high costs that previously deterred participation.
“Nigeria cannot be left behind, especially in ensuring data safety and privacy,” he added, noting the demand from over 500,000 registered data controllers.
The event, attended by notable figures including NITDA Director-General Malam Kashifu Inuwa and NigComSat MD Mrs Jane Egerton-Idehen, highlighted the government’s progressive stance on data protection.
Olatunji also described Nigeria’s data protection act as one of the most advanced globally.