<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>ITU Archives - Tech Digest News</title>
	<atom:link href="https://techdigest.ng/tag/itu/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>https://techdigest.ng/tag/itu/</link>
	<description>- Latest Nigeria Tech News Today</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 14:49:06 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en-US</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>
	hourly	</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>
	1	</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.4</generator>

<image>
	<url>https://techdigest.ng/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/cropped-techdigest-featured-image-32x32.jpg</url>
	<title>ITU Archives - Tech Digest News</title>
	<link>https://techdigest.ng/tag/itu/</link>
	<width>32</width>
	<height>32</height>
</image> 
<site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">197179539</site>	<item>
		<title>ITU Raises $82bn to Bridge Digital Divide in Nigeria, Others</title>
		<link>https://techdigest.ng/itu-raises-82bn-to-bridge-digital-dvide/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Techdigest]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 14:49:06 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Doreen Bogdan-Martin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITU]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MENA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[P2C]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://techdigest.ng/?p=81996</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>ITU Raises $82bn to Bridge Digital Divide in Nigeria, Others The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) announced it has raised over $82 billion under its Partner2Connect (P2C) Digital Coalition to expand internet connectivity in Nigeria and other parts of the world. Launched in 2021, P2C serves as a mobilization platform rallying governments, private sector, and civil [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/itu-raises-82bn-to-bridge-digital-dvide/">ITU Raises $82bn to Bridge Digital Divide in Nigeria, Others</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>ITU Raises $82bn to Bridge Digital Divide in Nigeria, Others</strong></p>
<p>The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) announced it has raised over $82 billion under its Partner2Connect (P2C) Digital Coalition to expand internet connectivity in Nigeria and other parts of the world.</p>
<p>Launched in 2021, P2C serves as a mobilization platform rallying governments, private sector, and civil society to support digital inclusion projects, especially in remote communities.</p>
<p>ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin made the announcement at Mobile World Congress 2026, noting that 2.2 billion people remain offline.</p>
<p>“Today’s milestone shows what’s possible when we pool our collective resources towards making connectivity universal and meaningful,” she said.</p>
<p>The initiative is on track to meet its $100 billion target by the end of 2026. Recent pledges include Mobily’s $1.715 billion investment in data centers, submarine cables, and 5G infrastructure, and Ooredoo Group’s $500 million investment in optical fibre networks across the MENA region.</p>
<p>These commitments directly support ITU’s goal of ensuring affordable, reliable internet access and digital skills for all. Since inception, P2C has secured over 1,000 pledges from 149 countries, covering infrastructure, policy modernization, and capacity-building.</p>
<p>By aligning existing projects with new ones, P2C enables governments, companies, and NGOs to showcase contributions and track progress toward universal connectivity.</p>
<p>ITU estimates that achieving meaningful global connectivity by 2030 could require $2.6–$2.8 trillion.</p>
<p>The agency urged both public and private sectors to scale up commitments to connect the quarter of the world’s population still unconnected.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/itu-raises-82bn-to-bridge-digital-dvide/">ITU Raises $82bn to Bridge Digital Divide in Nigeria, Others</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">81996</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>ITU Opens Applications for AI Innovation Programme Targeting Education</title>
		<link>https://techdigest.ng/itu-opens-applications-for-ai-innovation-programme-targeting-education/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tech Digest]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:47:02 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[AI]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITU]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://techdigest.ng/?p=81921</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has opened applications for its AI for Good Innovation Factory programme, aimed at supporting startups developing artificial intelligence solutions for the education sector. The programme seeks innovators using AI, machine learning, and advanced algorithms to improve access, inclusivity, and quality of education worldwide. Selected startups will pitch solutions designed to [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/itu-opens-applications-for-ai-innovation-programme-targeting-education/">ITU Opens Applications for AI Innovation Programme Targeting Education</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p data-start="5755" data-end="5978">The <span class="hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline"><span class="whitespace-normal">International Telecommunication Union</span></span> (ITU) has opened applications for its AI for Good Innovation Factory programme, aimed at supporting startups developing artificial intelligence solutions for the education sector.</p>
<p data-start="5980" data-end="6128">The programme seeks innovators using AI, machine learning, and advanced algorithms to improve access, inclusivity, and quality of education worldwide.</p>
<p data-start="6130" data-end="6304">Selected startups will pitch solutions designed to expand educational access in underserved regions, create inclusive learning environments, and modernize knowledge delivery.</p>
<p data-start="6306" data-end="6480">Participants will be evaluated based on problem clarity, market alignment, scalability, execution strategy, risk management, and the effective integration of AI technologies.</p>
<p data-start="6482" data-end="6698">The winner will receive a ticket and speaking opportunity at the AI for Good Global Summit 2026, along with access to the Innovation Factory Startup Accelerator Programme and follow-up mentoring from industry judges.</p>
<p data-start="6700" data-end="6852" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">The initiative is part of ITU’s broader push to spotlight AI-driven technologies capable of delivering measurable social impact across critical sectors.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/itu-opens-applications-for-ai-innovation-programme-targeting-education/">ITU Opens Applications for AI Innovation Programme Targeting Education</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">81921</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>ITU Director Visits NITDA, Strengthens Digital Cooperation</title>
		<link>https://techdigest.ng/itu-director-visits-nitda-strengthens-digital-cooperation/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Techdigest]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 08 Feb 2026 16:04:27 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dr. Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dr. Warowei Dimie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITU]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[NITDA]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://techdigest.ng/?p=81808</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>ITU Director Visits NITDA, Strengthens Digital Cooperation The Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Dr. Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, has paid a courtesy visit to the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in Abuja, reinforcing growing cooperation on digital development initiatives. Dr. Zavazava was accompanied by the ITU Regional Director [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/itu-director-visits-nitda-strengthens-digital-cooperation/">ITU Director Visits NITDA, Strengthens Digital Cooperation</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>ITU Director Visits NITDA, Strengthens Digital Cooperation</strong></p>
<p>The Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Dr. Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, has paid a courtesy visit to the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in Abuja, reinforcing growing cooperation on digital development initiatives.</p>
<p>Dr. Zavazava was accompanied by the ITU Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Emmanuel Manasseh, and other members of the ITU delegation. They were received on behalf of the Director General of NITDA by the Director of Corporate Planning and Strategy, Dr. Warowei Dimie, alongside other senior officials of the Agency.</p>
<p>The visit provided an opportunity for strategic engagement on key digital development challenges facing Nigeria, Africa, and other developing regions, with discussions centred on inclusive and sustainable growth of information and communication technologies (ICTs).</p>
<p>Speaking on behalf of the NITDA Director General, Dr. Dimie reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with ITU, describing the organisation’s global expertise as critical to adapting proven solutions and best practices to Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.</p>
<p>He noted that digital skills and capacity building were major focus areas, as Nigeria works towards achieving 70 per cent digital literacy by next year. According to him, the country has recorded encouraging progress through partnerships with the private sector and other stakeholders.</p>
<p>Participants highlighted the adoption of Nigeria’s National Digital Literacy Framework as a significant milestone, providing a structured and inclusive approach to skills development across different segments of society. Attention was also drawn to persistent connectivity gaps in rural and underserved communities, with proposals including grassroots digital training programmes and the deployment of National Youth Service Corps members as digital literacy ambassadors.</p>
<p>In his remarks, Dr. Zavazava outlined the mandate of the ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau to bridge the digital divide, promote inclusive ICT development, strengthen regulatory frameworks, and support member states in building resilient digital infrastructure. He said these priorities align closely with Nigeria’s digital transformation objectives.</p>
<p>Dr. Zavazava also highlighted ongoing collaboration between ITU and Nigeria in areas such as digital skills development, broadband infrastructure mapping, and cybersecurity. He disclosed that Nigeria is among 11 sub-Saharan African countries benefiting from a €15 million ITU–European Commission project on broadband infrastructure mapping and modelling.</p>
<p>He further noted Nigeria’s participation in global cybersecurity drills organised by ITU in partnership with the United Arab Emirates, which attracted over 136 countries in the most recent edition.</p>
<p>The courtesy visit underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between international development institutions and national agencies, reaffirming the shared commitment of ITU and NITDA to leveraging ICTs for sustainable development, innovation, and inclusive socio-economic growth in Nigeria.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/itu-director-visits-nitda-strengthens-digital-cooperation/">ITU Director Visits NITDA, Strengthens Digital Cooperation</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">81808</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Global Internet Connectivity Reaches 71%, Nigeria Records 39% Penetration – ITU</title>
		<link>https://techdigest.ng/global-internet-connectivity-reaches-71-nigeria-records-39-penetration-itu/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tech Digest]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 10:36:14 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITU]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://techdigest.ng/?p=81796</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>A new data from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reveals that the world increasingly defined by its digital borders. According to the report, while global internet usage has climbed to a weighted average of 71%, the gap between the most connected nations and those left in the &#8220;digital dark&#8221; remains due to poor infrastructure, economy, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/global-internet-connectivity-reaches-71-nigeria-records-39-penetration-itu/">Global Internet Connectivity Reaches 71%, Nigeria Records 39% Penetration – ITU</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A new data from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reveals that the world increasingly defined by its digital borders.</p>
<p>According to the report, while global internet usage has climbed to a weighted average of 71%, the gap between the most connected nations and those left in the &#8220;digital dark&#8221; remains due to poor infrastructure, economy, and policy.</p>
<p>The report highlights a spectrum of connectivity, ranging from total digital saturation in Northern Europe and the Middle East to near-total isolation in parts of East Africa and East Asia.<br />
​<br />
The leaders of the digital age, often referred to as the &#8220;100% Club,&#8221; represent a new standard of societal integration.</p>
<p>Countries like Denmark, Iceland, and Saudi Arabia have achieved total (100%) population coverage, with Norway (99%) and South Korea (98%) following closely behind.</p>
<p>The report indicates that Nigeria currently sits at a 39% internet penetration rate. Despite being Africa’s largest economy and a global powerhouse for fintech, roughly 60% of the population remains offline.</p>
<p>​The global middle ground is occupied by populous nations in rapid transition. India (56%) represents a massive market where over half the population now has access, while China (92%) and the USA (93%) have reached near-parity.</p>
<p>However, at the bottom of the scale, the figures also paint a picture of isolation.</p>
<p>North Korea remains at 0% due to strict state-controlled information barriers, while South Sudan and Uganda sit at just 9%, hampered by persistent instability and lack of basic infrastructure.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/global-internet-connectivity-reaches-71-nigeria-records-39-penetration-itu/">Global Internet Connectivity Reaches 71%, Nigeria Records 39% Penetration – ITU</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">81796</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>$2.8trn Needed for Universal Connectivity – ITU</title>
		<link>https://techdigest.ng/trn-needed-universal/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tech Digest]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 03 Sep 2025 10:32:36 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITU]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://techdigest.ng/?p=80593</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>For Nigeria and other parts of the world to achieve universal, meaningful internet connectivity by 2030, an investment of between $2.6 trillion and $2.8 trillion at current prices, International Telecommunication Union (ITU) said yesterday. In its Connecting Humanity Action Blueprint released by the ITU – the UN agency for digital technologies – and the Communications, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/trn-needed-universal/">$2.8trn Needed for Universal Connectivity – ITU</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For Nigeria and other parts of the world to achieve universal, meaningful internet connectivity by 2030, an investment of between $2.6 trillion and $2.8 trillion at current prices, International Telecommunication Union (ITU) said yesterday.</p>
<p>In its Connecting Humanity Action Blueprint released by the ITU – the UN agency for digital technologies – and the Communications, Space &amp; Technology Commission (CST) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the report outlined the challenges, projected costs, and collaborative strategies needed to make sure everyone, everywhere, can use the Internet, including the estimated one-third of humanity currently offline.</p>
<p>ITU said the largest investment component —$1.5 trillion to $1.7 trillion — is required for hard infrastructure, alongside substantial funding for human and institutional capacity, mainly in developing countries.</p>
<p>Commenting on the report, ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin believes that digital connectivity creates opportunities including jobs and education.</p>
<p>He said: “Digital connectivity means creating opportunities for education, jobs, and access to essential services that can transform lives and communities. While significant resources are needed to meaningfully connect everyone, these are investments that will contribute to a prosperous digital future for all.”</p>
<p>ITU estimates that 2.6 billion people are still excluded from the digital world, with connectivity closely linked to levels of socio-economic development. In 2024, an estimated 93 per cent of the population in high-income countries was using the Internet, compared to just 27 per cent in low-income countries.</p>
<p>The new report on achieving universal meaningful connectivity builds on ITU’s original 2020 Connecting Humanity study, published under the direction of the G20 during the presidency of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, by identifying critical gaps with the anticipated costs for addressing them.</p>
<p>“The world needs between $2.6 trillion and $2.8 trillion to connect humanity by 2030. This figure is nearly five times higher than the last assessment conducted in 2020 in partnership with ITU during the Saudi chairmanship of the G20. Such a dramatic increase underscores the urgency for international cooperation, collective investment, and the sharing of expertise if we are to achieve the vision of universal, meaningful connectivity for all,” Acting Governor of CST, H.E. Eng. Haytham AlOhali, said.</p>
<p>Digital infrastructure – $1.5 trillion to $1.7 trillion: Expanding broadband networks to underserved populations represents the single largest cost. The report estimates the costs of deploying fibre networks in and around urban areas, 4G fixed wireless in rural regions, and satellites in the most remote locations.</p>
<p>Affordability – $983 billion: Reducing the cost of smartphones and broadband services — both fixed and mobile — is vital so that individuals and households worldwide, particularly in lower-income regions, can afford to connect and stay online.</p>
<p>Digital skills – $152 billion: Connectivity alone is not enough — people must have the skills to use the Internet effectively. Investments to fund large-scale digital literacy initiatives can empower individuals to access online education, secure better jobs, and actively participate in a digitally-driven society.</p>
<p>Policy and regulation – $600 million: Modernizing regulations and creating predictable policy environments worldwide are essential to unlock efficiencies and promote innovation. While this represents the smallest cost component, it holds back digital transformation and sustains the other gaps. The impact of closing it would be massive.</p>
<p>The report stressed the need for public-private collaboration, adding that as the Connecting Humanity Action Blueprint highlights, global progress on connectivity has been uneven, with the world’s 46 least-developed countries lagging significantly due to financing barriers, limited technical expertise, and unreliable infrastructure.</p>
<p>To address these challenges, ITU calls for innovative business approaches and renewed collaboration between governments, the tech industry, development finance institutions, and civil society, to close current divides and prevent future ones, particularly in fields like artificial intelligence (AI).</p>
<p>The report concluded with recommendations to accelerate digital inclusion worldwide, including using schools as gateways to Internet access, investing in energy infrastructure in Africa, and enhancing data collection at the sub-national level.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/trn-needed-universal/">$2.8trn Needed for Universal Connectivity – ITU</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">80593</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Bosun Tijani Elected Vice Chair of ITU Council</title>
		<link>https://techdigest.ng/bosun-tijani-elected-vice/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tech Digest]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jun 2025 12:06:58 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bosun Tijani]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITU]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://techdigest.ng/?p=80010</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has been elected Vice Chair of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for 2025. The announcement was made during the ongoing ITU Council meetings in Geneva, Switzerland. Tijani confirmed the development via a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, describing the election as [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/bosun-tijani-elected-vice/">Bosun Tijani Elected Vice Chair of ITU Council</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has been elected Vice Chair of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for 2025.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The announcement was made during the ongoing ITU Council meetings in Geneva, Switzerland. Tijani confirmed the development via a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, describing the election as a significant recognition of Nigeria’s growing influence in global digital governance.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“It is a profound honour to be elected Vice Chair of the ITU Council 2025,” Tijani wrote. “I thank the ITU leadership and member states for this trust and look forward to working closely with Council Chair Cristiana Flutur and fellow members to advance our shared mission of inclusive digital development.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">The ITU Council serves as the decision-making body that governs the operations of the United Nations’ specialised agency for telecommunications and digital infrastructure between Plenipotentiary Conferences. The Council plays a vital role in shaping global policies on digital connectivity, innovation, and cyber governance.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Tijani said his appointment comes at a time when cross-border cooperation is essential to securing a connected, secure, and sustainable digital future. He pledged to leverage the position to drive international dialogue on key issues such as resilient digital infrastructure, meaningful internet access, cybersecurity, and the promotion of trusted public digital platforms.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“Through this new responsibility, I will champion global collaboration around resilient infrastructure, meaningful access, digital literacy, cybersecurity, and trusted digital public infrastructure,” he said. “This builds on the progress we’re already making and will help shape digital policies that empower people everywhere.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">The minister also emphasised the significance of the role in aligning global engagement with Nigeria’s national digital priorities. He said the position would not only amplify Nigeria’s voice in international policy forums but also reinforce the country’s domestic push for digital transformation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“As minister, I see this role as an opportunity to strengthen our voice on the global stage while deepening our commitment at home,” Tijani added. “From expanding connectivity in underserved areas to equipping young Nigerians with digital skills, our goals align strongly with the ITU’s vision of leaving no one behind in the digital revolution.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">The ITU, established in 1865, is the oldest UN agency and remains at the forefront of global efforts to bridge the digital divide and establish standards for modern communications technology.</p>
<p>By <a href="https://prnigeria.com/">PRNigeria</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/bosun-tijani-elected-vice/">Bosun Tijani Elected Vice Chair of ITU Council</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">80010</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>NITDA Reaffirm Commitment To Digital Transformation Adoption</title>
		<link>https://techdigest.ng/nitda-reaffirm-commitment/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Techdigest]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 08 Feb 2025 18:32:40 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITU]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ivan Kholostenko]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[NITDA]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://techdigest.ng/?p=79642</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>NITDA Reaffirm Commitment To Digital Transformation Adoption In its continued commitment towards the implementation of the present administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the area of improving governance for effective service delivery, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), is intensifying efforts to create a one-stop-shop portal for all government services. The initiative aligns with [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/nitda-reaffirm-commitment/">NITDA Reaffirm Commitment To Digital Transformation Adoption</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>NITDA Reaffirm Commitment To Digital Transformation Adoption</strong></p>
<p>In its continued commitment towards the implementation of the present administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the area of improving governance for effective service delivery, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), is intensifying efforts to create a one-stop-shop portal for all government services.</p>
<p>The initiative aligns with the President’s directive to digitise 75% of government services by 2027, a target that is now actively being pursued by various stakeholders.</p>
<p>This was made known when the DG NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE and his team played host to a delegation from the Ukrainian Embassy in Nigeria led by its ambassador, Mr Ivan Kholostenko to the Corporate Headquarters of the Agency in Abuja to discuss possible areas of collaboration between the two countries on ways of enhancing productivity, transparency and trust in government processes.</p>
<p>Despite efforts made for several years at establishing a centralised e-government portal such as the OneGove.net, the NITDA DG noted that the Agency has been playing a pivotal role in shaping the design, standard guidelines, and implementation strategies towards its establishment.</p>
<p>He however stated that renewed commitment and extensive research into global best practices have reignited the drive for pursuing the agenda.</p>
<p>While stating that the Agency has been doing research on how other countries have been able to implement the unified digital government services platform, the DG said, “We have been doing research on how UK, Kenya and other countries have achieved this, so I believe we can learn from you as well to see how we can build our own.”</p>
<p>“While such models are not entirely transferable between nations, we can learn from their experiences to develop a framework that works for Nigeria,” he added.</p>
<p>Proposing an introduction of legal frameworks to back up the initiative, Inuwa disclosed that NITDA has identified multiple models from other nations that allows government agencies to provide services through an Application Programming Interface (API) while other countries provide services exclusively through designated portals backed by law.</p>
<p>“If we want to achieve this, we need to have these laws in place and kickstart the process of enacting the laws in other to facilitate a smooth and effective digital transformation,” he averred.</p>
<p>Inuwa also disclosed that the agency is engaging with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to ensure alignment with global digital governance standards and the engagement is expected to provide valuable expertise and insights into structuring Nigeria’s digital transformation roadmap.</p>
<p>“This initiative is seen as a critical step towards enhancing efficiency, reducing corruption, and promoting transparency in government operations. By leveraging global best practices in alignment with national policies and digital transformation goals, Nigeria will have a smart, seamless and citizen-friendly government service experience, “he concluded.</p>
<p>In his remark, Mr Kholostenko said that Ukraine runs a digital platform known as the Diia application which is an ecosystem that encompasses all of the state registers, databases and can perform all the state and government services for citizens in one place.</p>
<p>He disclosed that it is the intention of his country through its Ministry of Digital Transformation to expand the reach of this initiative and provide full support for other countries to create such kind of system.</p>
<p>“I want to note that we are interested to expand and help other countries to make a digital state, reduce bureaucracy, reduce time for getting state services and of course, to reduce corruption risks, because human-to-human interaction is minimal,” he said.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/nitda-reaffirm-commitment/">NITDA Reaffirm Commitment To Digital Transformation Adoption</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">79642</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Memo to Tinubu on Rescoping Domestic Cybersecurity Programme</title>
		<link>https://techdigest.ng/memo-tinubu-rescoping-domestic/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Segun H Olugbile]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Sep 2024 03:18:54 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Commentary]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cybersecurity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITU]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ONSA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[President Bola Ahmed Tinubu]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://techdigest.ng/?p=79230</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Memo to Tinubu on Rescoping Domestic Cybersecurity Programme By Segun H. Olugbile The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) recently released its 5th Global Cybersecurity Index 2024 (GCI 2024), which assesses countries&#8217; commitment to cybersecurity based on the framework&#8217;s five pillars: legal measures, technical measures, organisational measures, capacity development, and cooperation. Nigeria is categorised within the tier-3 [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/memo-tinubu-rescoping-domestic/">Memo to Tinubu on Rescoping Domestic Cybersecurity Programme</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Memo to Tinubu on Rescoping Domestic Cybersecurity Programme</strong></p>
<p><strong> By Segun H. Olugbile</strong></p>
<p>The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) recently released its 5th Global Cybersecurity Index 2024 (GCI 2024), which assesses countries&#8217; commitment to cybersecurity based on the framework&#8217;s five pillars: legal measures, technical measures, organisational measures, capacity development, and cooperation. Nigeria is categorised within the tier-3 nations in the GCI 2024 report, which signifies that the country is experiencing a rise in digital service provisions and increasing online access for the populace but has failed to integrate cybersecurity measures into the fundamental socio-economic and digital connectivity strategies.</p>
<p>Nigeria, among the top five African countries in the 2018 GCI report, has now fallen behind. In the 2024 report, Ghana, previously ranked 11th, has surpassed Nigeria and is now listed among the tier-1 countries. This decline in Nigeria&#8217;s cybersecurity performance is a direct consequence of the country&#8217;s failure to implement and direct its national cybersecurity program effectively.</p>
<p>The recent government Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure Order (2024), officially gazetted, is a commendable step. The designation criminalised attacks on any classified infrastructure listed in the Order as a national security offence. Nigeria has implemented various measures to address cybersecurity challenges. These include amending the Cybercrime Act in 2015, enacting the Nigeria Data Protection Act in 2023, creating a national cybersecurity policy and strategy, and establishing a National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). These efforts have helped the nation achieve the ITU GCI Tier-3 level ranking, which is not very impressive.  ITU recognises that the ICT sector has substantially impacted the nation’s growth in digital services and an increase in the online population. This is reflected in the Q4 2023 report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), indicating the ICT sector contributed 16.66% to Nigeria&#8217;s real GDP. This is an increase from the 16.22% recorded during the same period in the previous year.</p>
<p>However, there remains a deficiency in the pragmatic integration of cybersecurity within national economic sectors and developmental objectives. There is an urgent need to reassess the country’s approach and address the nation&#8217;s digital economy&#8217;s weaknesses and inherent vulnerability. There is a misconception about the governance, accountability, and operationalisation of the country&#8217;s national cybersecurity, especially given the recent public reaction resulting from the Central Bank of Nigeria&#8217;s directive on cybersecurity levy.</p>
<p>Regrettably, the current national approach repeatedly faces challenges in moving the country forward in this regard. The challenges are apparent within the current institutional arrangement, which is inadequate in legal, technical, and capacity development expertise and lacks the necessary drive to consistently realise this fundamental national cybersecurity developmental objective over the past years. The existing institutional framework is inadequate owing to a conservative and regimented operational approach, redundancy, and rigid bureaucratic structures that hinder progress in domestic cybersecurity. Implementing a national cybersecurity programme requires a dynamic and adaptable approach and such requirements cannot be underestimated given the swiftly changing landscape of cyber threats.</p>
<p>In many countries, a national security agency serves as the authority responsible for overseeing cybersecurity measures. While the role of the security sector in cybersecurity is undeniably critical, it is plausible that security actors may not exhibit the necessary adaptability to govern the cybersecurity ecosystem within the country effectively.  The ONSA&#8217;s primary objective in its law is coordinating intelligence activities, such as intelligence collection. This task could potentially hinder the objective of delivering a fast-paced and inclusive domestic cybersecurity programme. The approach would also stifle the country&#8217;s cybersecurity developmental initiative, escalate privacy apprehensions, and undermine the necessity for innovation and trust-building. However, the Defence Space Agency (DSA) already provides cyberspace defence capabilities for the military, security, and intelligence entities. It is guided by the statutory mandate to safeguard the nation from existential cyber threats while overseeing and protecting affiliated security agencies (Defence Space Administration Act, 2016). The DSA framework effectively handles the country&#8217;s military and security dimension of cyberspace from the existential threat perspective.</p>
<p>The Domestic Cybersecurity Programme (DCP) should shift towards a civilian-centric leadership rather than a security intelligence-centric approach. The shared key success factor behind the success of the best-performing African countries listed in the recent ITU GCI 1-tier is derived from their role-modelling approach to implementing civilian-led cybersecurity.   For instance, Ghana has been acknowledged as the top-tier-performing African country in cybersecurity. The country has integrated a citizen-centric, multistakeholder strategy at the core of its efforts to address its cybersecurity challenges. In contrast, Nigeria&#8217;s security-driven approach has demonstrated limited performance with stunted growth over several years despite having previously led the way among African nations.</p>
<p>Civilian-led leadership would fast-track and transform most aspects of the nation’s cybersecurity policy and strategy through a multi-stakeholder governance and accountability framework. The approach would redefine interagency responsibilities and deliver a better responsive capability. Nigeria should learn significantly from Ghana’s approach in fostering cyber capabilities and trust between government and citizens while mitigating threats effectively. Achieving Nigeria&#8217;s cybersecurity programme requires expertise across civilian sectors. Neglecting these facts is counter-productive and stifles national cybersecurity capability and growth.</p>
<p>A security-centric approach to national cybersecurity hinders international cooperation, as other countries would hesitate to collaborate with an intelligence agency based on trust and innovation deficiency. The amended Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 lacks an adequate legal framework to empower the current approach to regulating, enforcing, or overseeing cyber-related breach investigations and cybersecurity development. The country lacks adequate focus and direction in cooperation, technical, management, and capacity development in implementing overarching cybersecurity regulations for the domestic space.  Nigeria is a major digital economy player and cannot afford to maintain its current approach, which has persistently stifled significant investment and research opportunities in cybersecurity.</p>
<p>The country should avoid disputes on cross-border digital services and data transfers, which may evolve through the trade agreements established under the General Agreement on Trade in Services of the World Trade Organization (GATS) and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). These agreements are designed to facilitate the formation of a unified continental market for goods and services in Africa, including digital products and services. Such frameworks emphasise the necessity of meaningful cyber-diplomacy and regulatory cooperation in addressing cybersecurity-related incidents rather than depending exclusively on exceptions for intelligence security. Establishing a transparent and accountable civilian-led agency for domestic cybersecurity programmes to oversee local regulation for developing the nation&#8217;s cybersecurity industry in partnership with the private sector with proactive international cooperation is paramount in the current reality.</p>
<p>Should the Federal Government continue to use the current security-centric arrangement for the national cybersecurity initiative, the nation would continue to face challenges associated with this decision and waning confidence from the domestic stakeholders. Overly rigorous security measures and a deficit in transparency would obstruct progress in cybersecurity. The public would increasingly express apprehensions regarding possible violations of constitutional privacy rights, coupled with a stagnation in innovation that could have significant consequences for individuals, enterprises, and the country in general.</p>
<p>Presently, cybersecurity measures are implemented in silos among public and private sector institutions, and innovations through R&amp;D remain stunted. Over 5,000 Nigerian youths are actively pursuing careers in cybersecurity and related academic programs at various universities and educational institutions. Establishing a thriving cybersecurity industry within an efficient and transparent regulatory framework has the potential to offer promising career prospects for Nigerian youths. Otherwise, the nation faces the risk of these youths being enticed by cybercriminal syndicates, leading to losing their talents within the depths of the dark web.</p>
<p>I urge the President to swiftly reassess the National Cybersecurity Programme in line with the nation&#8217;s best economic interests, prioritising balancing privacy, security, innovation, and maintaining public trust through a transparent and accountable governance system. Achieving a collective and sustainable national cybersecurity programme requires civilian-centric institutional leadership with a multistakeholder governance model. This rescoping should be facilitated with immediate intervention from the President.</p>
<p>Mr. President should consider the following recommendations which are critically essential in addressing these concerns:</p>
<p>i.             Set up expert panel from the government, private sector, technical and professional bodies, and civil society organisations to review and recommend changes to the current cybersecurity governance structure to align national cybersecurity efforts with established laws and best practices.</p>
<p>ii.             Issue an executive order to establish a new civilian-led agency to implement a national cybersecurity programme in line with the administration&#8217;s regulatory and economic development programme.</p>
<p>iii.             Designate a civilian cybersecurity advisor to provide strategic counsel and direction to the administration in forming an appropriate coordination framework within a national context that is aligned with regional and international standards while supervising national cybersecurity development initiatives.</p>
<p>iv.             Request the National Assembly&#8217;s cooperation in assessing the Amended Cybercrime Act 2015 to establish a thorough unifying framework and institutional arrangement for cybersecurity. The review should facilitate the creation of a holistic national cybersecurity legal framework that considers various measures such as technical aspects, institutional structures, innovative regulations, workforce capacity, and industry advancement, thereby strengthening the country&#8217;s capabilities.</p>
<p>v.             Direct the implementation of the reforms and clarify ONSA’s role in focusing on cybersecurity for intelligence gathering purposes only, in accordance with its constitutional mandate and National Security Strategy.</p>
<p>vi.             Ensure adequate funding and resources are designated for the establishment of a civilian-led cybersecurity agency that operates under a self-sustainability model.</p>
<p>This recommendation is strategic to the country’s ownership of its cybersecurity programme.</p>
<p>The President&#8217;s review of these recommendations would help to address public mistrust, promote transparency and accountability through co-funding regulatory measures that would attract private sector investments, and stimulate economic growth in the cybersecurity sector. Consequently, new industries would emerge, leading to increased foreign exchange earnings and job opportunities, which would align with the administration&#8217;s development goals.</p>
<p><strong>Segun H. Olugbile  </strong><br />
<strong>Segun Olugbile is a public policy adviser on cybersecurity and a leading contributor to strategic digital development initiatives. He can be reached through email:  solugbile@gmail.com</strong></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/memo-tinubu-rescoping-domestic/">Memo to Tinubu on Rescoping Domestic Cybersecurity Programme</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">79230</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Nigeria Internet Penetration Reaches 55%, Tops African Countries</title>
		<link>https://techdigest.ng/nigeria-internet-penetration/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Techdigest]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 04 May 2024 21:03:31 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Digital world]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITU]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://techdigest.ng/?p=78808</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Nigeria Internet Penetration Reaches 55%, Tops African Countries By Kabir Abdulsalam, Nigeria has taken a significant leap forward in internet access, with a reported 55% of its population now using the internet, according to data from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). This figure, according the report puts Nigeria well ahead of many other African countries, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/nigeria-internet-penetration/">Nigeria Internet Penetration Reaches 55%, Tops African Countries</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Nigeria Internet Penetration Reaches 55%, Tops African Countries</strong></p>
<p><strong>By Kabir Abdulsalam,</strong></p>
<p>Nigeria has taken a significant leap forward in internet access, with a reported 55% of its population now using the internet, according to data from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).</p>
<p>This figure, according the report puts Nigeria well ahead of many other African countries, highlighting a growing trend of digital adoption on the continent.</p>
<p>The data reveals a clear digital divide, with North Korea and Somalia at the bottom of the list with internet penetration rates below 10%.</p>
<p>However, Nigeria stands out among its African peers, surpassing countries like Ethiopia (17%), Kenya (29%), and South Africa (72%).</p>
<p>This rapid growth in internet usage suggests a growing appetite for information, communication, and online services among Nigerians.</p>
<p>With a large and youthful population, Nigeria&#8217;s digital landscape is poised for further development in the coming years.</p>
<p>The report indicates that Internet users are individuals who have used the Internet (from any location) in the last 3 months via a computer, mobile phone, personal digital assistant, games machine, digital TV etc.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/nigeria-internet-penetration/">Nigeria Internet Penetration Reaches 55%, Tops African Countries</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">78808</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>ITU Reports 6% 5G Coverage in Nigeria, Other Countries</title>
		<link>https://techdigest.ng/itu-reports-coverage/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Abbas Badmus]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 03 Jan 2024 14:32:34 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[5G]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITU]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://techdigest.ng/?p=78283</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>ITU Reports 6% 5G Coverage in Nigeria, Other Countries International Telecommunications Union, ITU, reports that 5G coverage in Nigeria and other African nations remains the lowest globally at just six percent, according to its &#8216;Mobile Network Coverage Facts and Figures 2023&#8217; report. While 4G has a 58 percent coverage, 3G stands at 19 percent, and [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/itu-reports-coverage/">ITU Reports 6% 5G Coverage in Nigeria, Other Countries</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>ITU Reports 6% 5G Coverage in Nigeria, Other Countries</strong></p>
<p>International Telecommunications Union, ITU, reports that 5G coverage in Nigeria and other African nations remains the lowest globally at just six percent, according to its &#8216;Mobile Network Coverage Facts and Figures 2023&#8217; report.</p>
<p>While 4G has a 58 percent coverage, 3G stands at 19 percent, and 2G at 10 percent across the continent.</p>
<p>The ITU highlights Africa&#8217;s lag in network adoption, with global 5G at 38 percent and 4G at 52 percent. The challenge in some countries stems from the continued presence of 2G and 3G networks, hindering 5G deployment due to infrastructure costs, device affordability, and regulatory barriers.</p>
<p>The UN telecommunications body notes that 5G coverage reached 40 percent of the world population in 2023, with significant disparities between high-income and low-income countries.</p>
<p>Europe leads with 68 percent coverage, followed by the Americas (59 percent) and Asia-Pacific (42 percent), while Africa lags at six percent. Despite recent 5G rollout in Sub-Saharan Africa, Ericsson predicts that 4G will dominate until 2028, constituting half of all mobile subscriptions by the end of 2029</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://techdigest.ng/itu-reports-coverage/">ITU Reports 6% 5G Coverage in Nigeria, Other Countries</a> appeared first on <a href="https://techdigest.ng">Tech Digest News</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">78283</post-id>	</item>
	</channel>
</rss>

<!--
Performance optimized by W3 Total Cache. Learn more: https://www.boldgrid.com/w3-total-cache/?utm_source=w3tc&utm_medium=footer_comment&utm_campaign=free_plugin

Page Caching using Disk: Enhanced 

Served from: techdigest.ng @ 2026-11-04 08:12:59 by W3 Total Cache
-->