- Bosun Tijani, Nigeria's Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, outlines Nigeria's tech-focused agenda at UNGA 78, targeting partnerships for the Universal Service Provision Fund, AI training, and economic diversification through technology. The aim is to enhance connectivity, establish Nigeria as an AI training hub, and accelerate economic growth via technological applications.
Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, revealed that Nigeria aims to forge partnerships in three key tech domains during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 78).
In a document titled: “Driving Nigeria’s Economic Growth through Global Partnerships in Innovation and Technology“, released on Sunday, the Minister outlined his intent to seek collaborations in the country’s Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), AI Training, and Economic Diversification through Technology.
Tijani highlighted the significance of Nigeria’s presence at several events on the sidelines of the 78th session of UNGA 2023, positioning the nation at the intersection of technological innovation and sustainable development. He emphasized that this year’s UNGA provides an opportunity for Nigeria to synchronize its strategies, initiatives, and aspirations with the global community.
Detailing the three major focuses (Connectivity, AI, and diversification) that will form the core of his participation at the global event, the Minister said:
“Connectivity is a catalyst for progress. As we work towards bridging the digital divide, we seek partnerships that can boost the USPF. Our goal is to connect a vast number of unserved and underserved communities in Nigeria, fostering inclusivity and ensuring that every Nigerian benefits from the digital revolution.”
On the AI training targeted by the Honourable Minister, Mr Tijani said:
“Nigeria brims with a vibrant pool of talent, potential, and innovation. We aspire to put Nigeria on the global map as a premier destination for AI model training. Not only does this promise significant job creation, but it also emphasizes our commitment to enhancing the inclusivity and robustness of AI datasets. We envision capturing the nuances of dark data from the global south, ensuring that AI solutions resonate with a diverse spectrum of lived experiences.”
The Minister added that through collaboration with global leaders and stakeholders, the country aims to usher in a brighter, digital, and inclusive future for Nigeria.
“The agenda set forth by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, champions economic diversification powered by technological applications. Our mission at the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy is clear – catalyze the productivity of critical sectors using technology. To this end, we are in pursuit of partnerships that can increase capital inflow to Nigerian startups via Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs), bolstering our entrepreneurial ecosystem and setting the stage for sustainable growth.”
According to him, this is an opportune moment to strengthen Nigeria’s global ties, comprehend emerging trends, and co-design pathways that can elevate the nation’s prosperity.
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 78) is currently holding the USA and us expected to span from the 19th of September to the 23 of September, 2023.
UNGA ’78 has been exhibiting High-Level General Debates 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”.
