The Federal Government has announced plans to boost the contribution of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from its current 14–16% to 21% within the next two to three years. This was disclosed by the Minister of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, during the launch of a Data Protection Officer (DPO) training program at the Public Servant Training Institute in Abuja on Monday.
Dr. Tijani emphasized the government’s commitment to positioning the digital economy as a driver of national growth. “This sector is contributing anywhere between 14–16% 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%,” he said.
The minister highlighted significant investments in ICT infrastructure, including the expansion of Nigeria’s fibre optic network, adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), and digital transformation of government services. These, he noted, are key to increasing productivity and economic growth. “As a nation, we are prioritizing investment in the digital economy. That is why we are investing in a fibre optic network to ensure connectivity for all, and why we are pushing artificial intelligence to help increase productivity,” he added.
Dr. Tijani acknowledged the vulnerabilities associated with increased digital connectivity and stressed the need for robust measures to protect citizens. “The more connected we are, the more vulnerable we are. It is crucial for the government to protect its people,” he stated.
The event also marked the commencement of a certification program for Data Protection Officers, a crucial step in ensuring data safety and privacy in Nigeria. According to Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, 500 participants will undergo certification in this first phase, with plans to scale up in the future.
“Our projection was to train over 3,000 Nigerians as certified DPOs last year, but due to budgetary constraints, we were unable to achieve that. However, we are starting with 500 participants,” Dr. Olatunji said. He revealed that over 55,000 Nigerians have received basic training in data protection but lack certification, which the government is now offering for free to address cost barriers.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, underscored the administration’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians through innovation and entrepreneurship. He also announced plans to strengthen relations between Nigerian youth and law enforcement.
The event drew high-profile attendees, including Malam Kashifu Inuwa, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA); 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 for the National Cybersecurity Centre.
The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader goals of fostering a digital economy, ensuring data privacy, and empowering its workforce to thrive in a technology-driven world.
