FG, Plateau Government Open 13th NCCIDE Meeting to Drive Inclusive Digital Transformation in Nigeria
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, in collaboration with the Plateau State Government, has officially opened the 13th Regular Meeting of the National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) in Jos, Plateau State.
The five-day programme, which is holding at the Crispan Suites and Event Centre, is themed:
“Accelerating Inclusive Digital Transformation: Bridging Gaps and Fostering Sustainable Growth Through Innovation.”
The meeting has drawn top government officials, policymakers, and industry stakeholders from across Nigeria to deliberate on the future of the nation’s digital economy.
Plateau Govt Welcomes Delegates
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Plateau State Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Mr. Lamba Peter Bot, expressed delight at hosting delegates for the 13th NCCIDE meeting. He described the gathering as a renewed national commitment to building Nigeria’s future through technology and inclusive digital growth.
Mr. Bot noted that the meeting’s theme serves as a strong call to action for stakeholders to bridge the widening gap between the digitally connected and unconnected populations. He emphasized the need to empower youths, support startups and develop innovative solutions that will strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy.
FG Harps on Urgent Digital Transformation
Speaking in his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Engr. Nadungu Gagare, stressed that inclusive digital transformation has become a national necessity. According to him, digital technology now drives key sectors of the economy and must be strategically deployed to secure Nigeria’s economic future.
Engr. Gagare explained that bridging Nigeria’s digital divide remains central to the Ministry’s mandate. He highlighted the importance of expanding broadband access, strengthening digital skills and ensuring that no community or demographic group is left behind in the digital age. He also stressed the need for sound policies and regulations to protect citizens while encouraging innovation.
He further reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to positioning Nigeria as a leading hub for digital services and innovation in Africa through the promotion of startups, e-government services and a conducive digital business environment.
Plateau Commissioner Declares Meeting Open
Declaring the technical session open, the Plateau State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, welcomed participants on behalf of Governor Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang. He assured delegates of the state government’s full support for all initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy.
Dr. Shurkuk reiterated the importance of the council’s theme, noting that equitable digital access, community empowerment and innovation are key to sustainable national development. He also restated Plateau State’s commitment to supporting startups, developing home-grown digital solutions and partnering with global development institutions to drive innovation.
PICTDA Showcases Digital Progress in Plateau
Earlier, the Director-General of the Plateau Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA), Dr. Datong Dominic Gwanman, expressed pride that Plateau State is hosting the prestigious national meeting. He described the event as a reflection of the state government’s strong support for digital transformation.
Dr. Gwanman disclosed that PICTDA is currently transitioning government operations from manual to data-driven systems. He revealed that the agency has successfully digitalized school management processes and is set to expand digital solutions into other critical sectors to deepen inclusive development.
Kano, NERDC Stress Policy and Skills Development
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Kano State Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Mr. Abba Guguwa, explained that key memoranda will be developed at the meeting to guide institutional digital transformation. He noted that the proposed reforms will accelerate governance processes and significantly impact Nigeria’s economic and social advancement.
In his contribution, Dr. Garba Gandu, Senior Adviser (Technical) to the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), stressed the urgency for Nigeria to adopt global best practices in the fast-evolving digital era. He emphasized the need for continuous digital skills development, upskilling, and cross-skilling to keep Nigeria competitive in the ongoing technological revolution.
FG Reviews Key Digital Economy Proposals
Concluding the session, Engr. Nadungu Gagare reviewed several memoranda focused on advancing rural telecommunications, strengthening data privacy frameworks and promoting sustainable digital practices. The proposals are expected to boost job creation, enhance data protection and align Nigeria’s digital economy with global standards.
The 13th NCCIDE meeting is expected to produce far-reaching policy recommendations that will shape Nigeria’s digital economy and accelerate inclusive national development.
