By Yushau A. Shuaib

When a sponsored attack song backfires, it reveals everything about the sponsors — and nothing damaging about the target.

A brief disclosure is necessary before I proceed. In December 2018, Jamilu Gwamna — then Managing Director of the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) — personally approved the removal and reinstallation of electric poles to support the expansion of the PRNigeria Centre in Kano. That gesture of institutional goodwill remains unforgettable. His spokesperson, Ibrahim Shawai, who still serves in that role today, has also been a long standing professional colleague. I state this up front because transparency about relationships is the foundation of credible commentary, and what I am about to say directly touches on the political contest in which Gwamna is now a participant.

I must also clarify my relationship with Isa Ali Pantami. I have closely monitored the evolution of Nigeria’s digital economy ecosystem since his days as Director General of NITDA and throughout his tenure as Minister of Communications and Digital Economy. That monitoring led to active promotion of legitimate achievements and a sustained effort to counter malicious narratives directed at him. It also resulted in a book documenting his trials and triumphs. My engagement with Pantami has always been based strictly on public service record — nothing more, nothing less.

For more than two years, Pantami has openly signalled his intention to contest the governorship of Gombe State. There were early indications that Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya might not remain neutral in the APC primary. I raised this concern with the Governor’s spokesperson, Ismaila Misilli, during the launch of Pantami’s books in Abuja in January 2024. Misilli consistently reassured me that the Governor would be fair to all aspirants.

When Shawai later informed me that Jamilu Gwamna would also be contesting after securing the APC ticket, I did what fairness required: I told him directly that any press release or material his candidate issued would be published on our platforms at no cost — the same courtesy extended to Pantami, who had paid his dues in national service. Equity demanded nothing less.

This week, precisely last Thursday’s evening after Shawai discussed a release and a new photograph of his candidate with me — which we published immediately — a video began circulating less than twenty four hours later.

In it, APC Hausa praise singer Kahutu Rarara did not merely criticise Pantami; he accused him of drug addiction, alleged corruption, and issued thinly veiled threats of referral to anti corruption agencies. He then, in the same breath, lavished praise on Jamilu Gwamna, the APC governorship candidate. The sponsorship was not implied. It was announced.

The response was swift, fierce, and deeply instructive. Clerics who had previously criticised Pantami came out in his defence. Scholars who had held reservations issued statements of solidarity. Politicians in opposing camps expressed sympathy. Social media influencers with no particular allegiance condemned Rarara in terms sharper than anything he had directed at his target. Without spending a kobo or uttering a word in his own defence, Pantami gained more followers, more sympathisers, and more vocal supporters in forty eight hours than any conventional campaign event could have delivered.

The attack produced the exact opposite of its intended effect. This is not a coincidence. It is a textbook case of demarketing by incompetence — a lesson written in real time for anyone willing to read it.

I have made this point repeatedly in professional settings, and it bears restating with the specificity this episode demands. There is a fundamental difference between publicity, where noise and trend matter, and public relations, where substance and credibility matter. Many politicians and campaign managers behave as though the two are interchangeable — assuming that anyone with a large audience or a talent for generating noise is automatically a useful campaign instrument. This is a costly error.

Publicity measures reach and volume. Public relations measures credibility and consequence.

A praise singer with hundreds of thousands of followers can generate trend after trend, but if his credibility is already compromised, every trend he generates carries the stench of that compromise. The audience does not simply receive the message; it filters it through what it already knows about the messenger. When a campaign instrument is perceived as mercenary, every message it carries is contaminated.

Kahutu Rarara is not an artist in the tradition of musicians who use their platforms to advocate justice or accountability. He is, by his own pattern, a hired tongue — available to praise whoever pays and to attack whoever his current patron designates. He has performed this function against former Kano Governors Ibrahim Shekarau and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, among others. In each case, those he vilified were, in other seasons, recipients of his flattery when patronage flowed in their direction. Nigerians are not unaware of this. His credibility as an independent voice is precisely zero. That is why there can be no basis for comparing a global musical icon like Davido with Rarara after their public clash in June 2026 over Nigeria’s kidnapping crisis.

Any campaign strategist who deployed him for this assignment either failed to conduct the most basic perception audit or conducted one and ignored it. Either way, the professional failure belongs to the architects of the strategy — not to Rarara, who simply did what Rarara does.

While publicity chases attention, public relations earns trust. And the most damaging form of demarketing is when an opposition relies on a weak, hate-driven campaigner who resorts to ignorance, arrogance, and indecency. Such tactics almost always backfire, instantly boosting public sympathy and solidarity for the reputable competitor — without them spending a single penny. That is exactly what we are witnessing in the case of Rarara’s attack song against Pantami.

Yushau A. Shuaib is the author of “Pantami: Trials & Triumphs of a Digital Economy Maestro.” Email: yashuaib@yashuaib.com

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In Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, few public officials have left a mark as visible and measurable as Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami. Long after leaving office as Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, the policies, reforms, and technological transformation he initiated continue to shape governance, business, innovation, and digital inclusion across the country.

For many observers, Pantami’s years in office represented more than a ministerial tenure; they symbolized the beginning of Nigeria’s deliberate transition into a digitally driven economy. From expanding broadband penetration and deepening digital identity enrollment to promoting indigenous innovation and strengthening the startup ecosystem, his administration pursued an ambitious vision that sought to place Nigeria among Africa’s leading digital economies.

Today, as conversations continue around leadership and development in Gombe State, Pantami’s stewardship in the communications and digital economy sector has become central to discussions about his capacity for higher executive responsibility, particularly in relation to governorship aspirations in the state.

When Pantami assumed office in 2019 under the administration of former President, Late Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s digital economy landscape was still largely fragmented. Internet penetration was growing, yet millions remained excluded from digital opportunities. Government services were mostly manual, digital literacy levels were low, and indigenous innovation struggled for institutional backing.

Pantami entered office with a clear agenda to institutionalize the digital economy as a major pillar of national development.

One of his earliest and most consequential achievements was the development and implementation of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020–2030. The policy provided a structured roadmap for Nigeria’s digital transformation, focusing on infrastructure, digital literacy, service development, emerging technologies, and indigenous innovation.

Under his leadership, the Ministry aggressively pursued broadband expansion across the country. Broadband penetration increased significantly, bringing millions of Nigerians into the digital space and creating new economic opportunities for businesses, students, entrepreneurs, and rural communities.

This expansion became especially crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, when digital connectivity became essential for education, commerce, healthcare, and communication. Many analysts believe Nigeria’s ability to sustain parts of its economy during the lockdown period was aided by the digital infrastructure policies championed during Pantami’s tenure.

Perhaps one of the most defining aspects of Pantami’s legacy was the acceleration of Nigeria’s National Identity Number (NIN) enrollment process.

Before his reforms, national identity registration had progressed slowly for years. However, through strategic reforms, stronger coordination, and nationwide mobilization, millions of Nigerians were enrolled into the digital identity system within a relatively short period.

The integration of NIN with SIM registration, though initially controversial in some quarters, ultimately strengthened Nigeria’s identity management architecture and enhanced national security efforts. It also improved access to banking, telecommunications, and government services.

Beyond security implications, the digital identity drive laid the foundation for financial inclusion and e-governance, ensuring that more Nigerians could participate in the formal economy.

Pantami consistently advocated for local content development and indigenous technological innovation. During his tenure, Nigeria witnessed increased support for startups, young innovators, and technology hubs.

Several initiatives were introduced to empower Nigerian youths with digital skills, software development training, cybersecurity knowledge, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Technology incubation centers received renewed attention, while partnerships with global technology firms expanded opportunities for local talents.

Under his watch, conversations around artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, data protection, and emerging technologies gained stronger policy backing in Nigeria.

He also played a prominent role in promoting the Nigerian startup ecosystem internationally, helping position Nigeria as one of Africa’s leading destinations for technology investment.

Today, Nigerian startups continue to attract billions in investments, while young innovators across the country increasingly see technology as a pathway to economic empowerment, a shift many trace to the policy direction established during his administration.

A major component of Pantami’s vision was digital inclusion. He repeatedly emphasized that digital transformation must not be limited to urban elites alone.

Through multiple interventions, digital literacy programs were expanded to students, civil servants, women, and rural communities. Training initiatives focused on equipping Nigerians with practical digital skills necessary for participation in the modern economy.

This focus on inclusion resonated strongly in Northern Nigeria, where digital access and literacy gaps had historically limited economic participation.

For many young people in Gombe State and across the North-East, Pantami emerged not only as a federal minister but as a symbol of intellectual advancement and technological possibility.

Another major achievement associated with Pantami’s tenure was the strengthening of Nigeria’s cybersecurity architecture.

Recognizing the growing risks associated with digitalization, the Ministry intensified efforts toward cybersecurity awareness, data protection, and cybercrime prevention.

The establishment and implementation of regulatory frameworks for data protection helped position Nigeria for a more secure digital future while enhancing investor confidence in the country’s technology ecosystem.

His administration also emphasized capacity building in cybersecurity, creating opportunities for young Nigerians to participate in one of the world’s fastest-growing sectors.

Supporters often describe Pantami’s leadership style as disciplined, visionary, and result-oriented. Unlike many public officials who focused primarily on rhetoric, Pantami built a reputation for policy implementation, measurable outcomes, and institutional reforms.

His academic background in information technology and cybersecurity gave him technical credibility that distinguished him within government circles. This expertise enabled him to approach governance from a knowledge-driven perspective rather than purely political considerations.

To many admirers, this blend of intellectual depth, administrative competence, and grassroots connection has continued to strengthen his political relevance beyond Abuja.

As political conversations intensify ahead of future elections in Gombe State, Pantami’s achievements at the national level are increasingly being cited as evidence of what focused and visionary leadership can accomplish.

Supporters argue that the same innovation-driven governance model that transformed Nigeria’s digital economy could be replicated in Gombe through investments in education, digital infrastructure, agriculture technology, entrepreneurship, healthcare systems, and youth empowerment.

For a state with a growing youthful population, the appeal of a technologically minded leader resonates strongly among many voters seeking modernization, job creation, and economic diversification.

Pantami’s supporters believe his experience managing complex national reforms positions him uniquely to drive transformational governance at the state level. They point to his ability to coordinate institutions, implement policies, and attract strategic partnerships as qualities necessary for sustainable development in Gombe.

Beyond his public office, Pantami’s rise has carried symbolic significance across Northern Nigeria. His journey from academia to national leadership has inspired many young Nigerians who see education, technology, and innovation as tools for societal transformation.

In a region often associated with developmental challenges, Pantami projected an alternative narrative — one centered on knowledge, digital advancement, and global competitiveness.

This intellectual image continues to strengthen his appeal among professionals, youths, academics, and technocrats who desire leadership grounded in competence and vision.

Years after leaving office, the structures, policies, and reforms initiated under Pantami remain deeply embedded in Nigeria’s digital economy ecosystem.

From digital identity expansion and broadband growth to startup development and cybersecurity reforms, his imprint continues to influence national development conversations.

Whether viewed through the lens of governance, innovation, or public sector reform, Pantami’s legacy as Minister of Communications and Digital Economy remains one of the most defining chapters in Nigeria’s technological evolution.

And as political dynamics continue to evolve in Gombe State, many believe that the digital economy legacy he built nationally may ultimately become one of the strongest foundations for his political aspirations at home.

Abbas Badmus is a staff writer of TechDigest and can be reached via abbasbadmus@gmail.com

The post The Digital Economy Legacy That Still Defines Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami appeared first on Tech Digest News.

Speaking in esoteric opulence, he serenades his listeners with unending vocal dexterity, weaving a tapestry of words that mesmerize and enthrall. Every syllable uttered is a masterful stroke of linguistic artistry, leaving you spellbound and yearning for more.

His voice is a rich velvet cloak that envelops your senses, transporting you to a realm of wonder and awe. Just when you think he has reached the pinnacle of eloquence, he surpasses himself, plunging deeper into the depths of linguistic virtuosity. His words are a symphony of wisdom, a gentle breeze that rustles the leaves of your mind, awakening hidden truths and stirring the soul.

With each phrase, he paints a vivid picture of the human experience, a kaleidoscope of emotions and ideas that resonate deeply within. His voice is a gentle whisper that awakens the heart, a gentle breeze that stirs the soul, and a radiant light that illuminates the path to understanding.

Recently, I had an encounter with the rave of the moment, the reference in every social discourse, mentioned in academic circles, the author of the book “Skills Rather than Just Degrees,” Professor Ibrahim Ali Pantami. He is the immediate past Minister of Digital Economy, a teacher, cleric, and politician.

The venue was his office. He had scheduled our meeting, and just in the nick of time, he walked in, greeting everyone with cheerful gestures as he strolled to his desk. And my chit-chat with him began.

With a smile on his face, he asked me: “Mallam Abdullahi, You speak with the eloquence of a Hausa speaker, but I know you are not one!”

I responded: “Yes, Mallam, I am actually Igala but born in the embrace of Zaria; the melting pot of intellectual seekers.”

As a journalist, I was eager to discuss his book, “Skills Rather than Just Degrees,” which had generated significant buzz, with both praise and criticism.

I asked him: “Aren’t you worried about the negative reviews?”

Pantami’s response was characteristically optimistic: “The greatest tragedy is to write a book and not get reactions. The demand for my book has skyrocketed, with online vendors struggling to keep up. This is how you measure success. The reactions that my book has generated thus far have led to an astronomical increase in demand, such that the book is now sold out. The online vendors are overwhelmed by ceaseless demand. This is how you measure the success of a book. I thank those who made this possible.”

The book has been translated into five languages: Spanish, French, Mongolian, Hausa, and Arabic. Across universities and other tertiary institutions, there has been a frenzy over the book, with students making t-shirts with bold inscriptions of “Skills Rather than Just Degrees” and sharing on social media platforms. This further grabs the arrention of a generation of thinkers, those with the mindset of champions—creators and innovators in addition to their certifications.

As our conversation flowed, I was struck by his passion for education and his commitment to empowering young minds. His words were a template of wisdom, wearing the colour of inspirations that define an alternative thinking pattern. In his presence, I felt the rising push to integrate his teachings into my craft. I was ready to recreate his path and amplify the messages he carries with his book. Let’s have generations with degrees but backed with skills.

Indeed, Professor Ibrahim Ali Pantami has sparked a revolution, the Pantami effect. The book’s impact was evident, with translations in five languages and a frenzy among students, who even created t-shirts with the book’s title. The Gombe-born knowledge voyager has aimed to inspire a generation of thinkers, creators, and innovators.

When I asked about his time management, given his prolific writing, preaching, and political activities, he humbly replied:
“I don’t manage my time, I utilize my time with priority set out. I spend most of my day worshipping my creator, ample time with my family, and the rest researching and reading.”

Despite having little sleep, his priorities drive his productivity.

As our conversation concluded, I was left in awe of Professor Ibrahim Pantami’s linguistic virtuosity, his passion for education, and his commitment to empowering young minds. His words were a symphony of wisdom, painting a vivid picture of the human experience, and illuminating the path to understanding. In his presence, I felt the gentle whisper of his voice awakening my heart, the gentle breeze of his words stirring my soul, and the radiant light of his wisdom guiding me towards knowledge.

Abdullahi O Haruna Haruspice is a journalist, poet and author of the book, “The Buhari In Us.”
haruspicee@yahoo.com

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In a clash over credit and achievement, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Pantami, has criticized his successor, Bosun Tijani, for the relaunch of the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR).

The NCAIR, established to drive research and development in emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, was recently relaunched by Tijani with the support of global tech giant Cisco, boasting enhanced capabilities.

However, Pantami expressed discontent, suggesting that the relaunch sought to claim credit for his administration’s efforts.

In a social media post, Pantami highlighted the original establishment of the NCAIR in November 2020, emphasizing its effectiveness in training thousands of Nigerians in cutting-edge technologies.

He emphasized that legacy is earned through tangible achievements, not merely claimed by successors.

“The National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics has been built and commissioned in November 2020, almost 4 years ago.

“The first of its kind in Africa. It has been very effective, and thousands of Nigerians have been trained and trained. Legacy is achieved, not claimed.”

Responding to the criticism, Minister Tijani outlined the enhancements to the NCAIR, including access to advanced computing infrastructure, dedicated research labs, and connections to AI hubs nationwide.

He underscored the government’s commitment to bolstering AI research, supporting local startups, and leveraging AI for governance.

“To achieve these, here are some new initiatives we’ve introduced to support this relaunch:

“NCAIR now has access to over 2500 virtual CPUs for use by the Nigeria AI Collective. NCAIR is now connected to 1 petabyte of storage at GBB.

“NCAIR will manage the new computing infrastructure for projects of national interest and academic research. There is now adedicated lab at NCAIR for State and enterprise AI research projects.

“NCAIR will allow AI hubs and pods across the country connect remotely to the new computing infrastructure.

“In addition, NCAIR will now report and academically publish on all projects carried out at the institution,” Tijani said.

Additionally, Tijani announced policy initiatives emerging from the Ministry’s National AI Workshop, including the launch of Nigeria’s first Multilingual Large Language Model, signaling a broader strategic push towards AI development and innovation in the country.

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The former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, is set to launch a book on his 20-year experience in the academia.

According to a statement by Professor Sahalu B. Junaidu, Chairman, Organising Committee for the launch, the public presentation of the literature titled, “A Scholar’s Journey: Navigating Academia” will take place on 24 January, 2024 at Fraser Suite Abuja.

“The book has documented 20 years of Professor Pantami’s academic experiences, successes, challenges, resilience, and opportunities. It provides account of Professor Pantami’s scholarly journey into the academic world of excellence.

“Each of the chapters is dedicated to a particular academic and industry experience that has been largely responsible for his emergence, rise and accomplishment of excellence in academic pursuits and in the application of knowledge for sustainable digital transformation.

“The book, written in a unique literary style, has been documented to serve as a mentorship guide for those interested in being mentors,” the statement partly read.

The statement added that the book, which will serve as a guide for academics, shall be available to the public in relevant bookstores at home and abroad after the event.

Professor Pantami is a University Chancellor; Professor of Cybersecurity, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State; Nigeria’s first Minister of Digital Economy, from 2019 to 2023; and the first African Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Information Security (CIISec). He is also a Fellow of the British Computer Society (BCS) and a Fellow of the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS). He was the Chairman, World Summit on Information Society (WSIS), from 2022 to 2023 and the fourth Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), from 2016 to 2019. He has lectured in universities within and outside Nigeria.

Professor Pantami has previously published many academic and other books as an author. In the last three years, he has published “Skills Rather Than Just Degrees”, “Cybersecurity Initiatives for Securing a Country”, “Digital Economy for a Digital Africa”, and “Datafication of Society to Foster an Internet Economy”.

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TECHDIGEST – Last week, President Bola Tinubu, signed the Nigeria Data Protection Bill, 2023 into law. The new law has obviously excited data and technology experts who now feel Nigeria’s economy is about to witness investment boom like other countries who have passed a similar law.

The new law establishes the Nigeria Data Protection Commission and replaces the NDPB established by former President Buhari in February 2022.

The Commission will be led by a National Commissioner responsible for regulating the processing of personal information.

Since the new law came into effect positive predictions have trailed it, all pointing to the fact it could triple the fortunes of the industry which today stands at above N5.5 billion.

If the calculations are correct, it means that the industry could be valued at over N16 billion in no distant time.

Just recently, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Pantami says the market value of Nigeria’s Data Protection Sector in the country was N 5.5 billion and predicted this figure could triple if data protection law came into effect.

READ ALSO: TNW Conference 2023: NITDA Unveils N10bn Funds For Startups, Hubs, Others 

Part of the reasons Pantami advanced for his prediction was that the law will give foreign investors the confidence to do business in Nigeria.

He said: “The Data Protection Bureau created many jobs in 2022. The value of the sector today is around 5.5 billion naira and could triple if a full law come into effect. It is a global best practice to have a data protection law in place; otherwise you will find it difficult to attract interventions that are of benefit to your country.

Secondly, even potential investors today may ask questions whether you have data protection laws in your country or not; if you don’t have any data protection law in place, they will feel uncomfortable coming to invest in that country, because today, data is critical” he added.

Meanwhile, Pantami is not alone in this view. All the experts who spoke to Hitech saw the move as a welcome development going by its potential market confidence.

How the economy will benefit

A tech lawyer and Managing Partner at Nubia Capital, a venture capital investor in tech companies, Mr. Davidson Oturu said: “With the growth of tech enabled businesses using data to drive financial technology, fintech, e-commerce and other online services, the laws will be crucial for market confidence.

“For instance, we saw a situation where following Kenya’s introduction of its Data Protection Act, Amazon Web Services, AWS, announced new investments in the country, including establishing part of its data cloud infrastructure in Nairobi.

“There were indications that the data protection law was what spurred AWS to invest in the country as it had been waiting for about seven years for the passage of such a law that would boost its confidence.

“The law can also assure the citizens and investors that the government will not exploit their personal information for unauthorised profiling, spying, or other forms of discrimination.

“With market confidence, will come trust, especially as some consumers may have lost faith in the ability of the government to protect their data following the recent surge of privacy infractions and data breaches by large internet companies and loan apps.

“Therefore, consumers may be more willing to participate in online activities like e-commerce, digital transactions, and online services when they have confidence that their data will be protected, which can help the economy,” Oturu stated.

Loan sharks, data manipulators up for raw deal

Speaking on the provisions of the law, Oturu said: “Some of the provisions of the law include the fact that before organisations transfer personal data, they have to comply with the certain provisions or risk sanctions.

“In terms of penalties, there are fines introduced and where someone’s personal data is infringed and used for profiting, the aggrieved person can get part of the profits made from the infringement.

“This would definitely work in situations where we see some of these loan sharks and other players who manipulate data and carrying out unethical activities.

“Furthermore, at a time when artificial intelligence, AI, is on the rise with its potential for data manipulation and deep fakes, having strong data protection laws will be crucial for responsible AI development and deployment as it will uphold ethical principles, preserves privacy, ensures compliance with regulations, fosters trust, and mitigates risks associated with data use,” he added

Also reacting, Chief Revenue and Data Officer, Enterprise Business Information systems, Mr Wale Awosokanre, said data is power and can always be monetized when properly managed and propagated. Awosokanre said: “This will help the government bring sanity to data management allowing for control in the use, which will impact positively the economy of Nigeria.

“Till date, data is sometime used to the disadvantage of the owner, which creates negative view of Nigeria and impacting on investments coming into the country; if we are able to reverse this, then positive investments can be attracted into Nigeria.”

Implementation Concerns

However, Awosokanre was worried about the implementation of the law noting that without adequate implementation, any law is just a piece of paper.

He raised some questions, including how to ensure compliance? What systems or trackers would be put in place to ensure adherence to the law and the competence in management of the Data commission.

Massive education and awareness

Meanwhile, the Executive Director, Paradigm Initiative, Mr Gbenga Sesan, wants the Nigeria Data Protection Commission as a matter of urgency to begin massive education and awareness for citizens and data handlers so that everyone knows their rights and responsibilities.

He said: “One of the challenges that this new law has immediately addressed is the need for an independent data protection regulatory agency because it is the right way to do it and also because all violators must be checked, including government agencies themselves.

“The independence will not come easy though, the Commission must defend it especially considering the contradictory Section 55 of the Act that gives the Minister power to dictate to the independent Commission,” Sesan advised.

Vanguard

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TECHDIGEST – The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), showcased Nigeria’s Innovative IT Policy Formulation Approach at the just concluded London Blockchain Conference. NITDA led the Nigerian delegation at the conference, held from 31st May to 2nd June, 2023 at the Queen Elizabeth II International Conference Centre, Westminster, London, United Kingdom.

Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, the Director General/CEO, represented by Dr Usman Gambo Abdullahi, Director, Information Technology Infrastructure Solutions, participated in a panel discussion on “Blockchain Innovation Program: Changing Lives Through BSV Education”. He used the opportunity to inform global Blockchain community of Nigeria’s innovative approaches towards ensuring nationwide adoption of the technology.

Mr Inuwa informed that the National Blockchain Policy for Nigeria, approved by the Federal Executive Council on Wednesday 3rd May, 2023 was unveiled by Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, FCIIS, FBCS, FNCS, the former Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, on Tuesday 16th May, 2023. He further indicated that the Policy was developed to help Nigeria’s transition into the digital economy by using Blockchain technology in boosting innovation, improving public services, creating job opportunities, reducing corruption and driving economic growth.

It may be recalled that the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy for a Digital Nigeria (NDEPS) was launched and unveiled by Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, the former President, in 2019. The Policy, anchored on 8 pillars, has Digital Society and Emerging Technologies as one of the pillars.

NITDA, being the Policy’s key implementing Agency, crafted the Agency’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan, anchored on seven strategic pillars, namely Developmental Regulation, Digital Literacy and Skills, Digital Entrepreneurship, Indigenous of Content Development and Promotion, Digital Transformation, Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies.

The implementation of the National Blockchain Policy for Nigeria, focused on three areas – talent development, innovation, and adoption – is aimed at helping Nigeria achieve, among others, improved transparency and accountability, increased efficiency, enhanced security, financial inclusion and job creation. It will also help in boosting innovation, improving government services, driving economic growth, enhancing public trust in governance and promoting citizen engagement.

Mr Inuwa highlighted the global high demand for employable skills. That with a population of over 200 Million, Nigeria accounts for about 50% of West Africa’s population. Furthermore, that Nigeria has a significant brain capital and a strong comparative advantage to leverage Blockchain technology to supply highly skilled labour to the global market. It is in this regard that the Agency commissioned the National Talent Gap Assessment that resulted in the development of the National Digital Skills Strategy.

The NITDA Blockchain Scholarship Scheme with Domineum Blockchain Technology Solutions as the implementing partner and BSV Blockchain Association through BSV Blockchain Academy as the content provider, is part of the Agency’s grand plan of adding 500,000 Blockchain professionals to the talent pool, with the aim of making Nigeria a leading talent hub for Blockchain innovation and development. The first batch of the Scholarship programme recorded about 92,000 applications out of which 32,000 have successfully completed the programme and their certificates issued at the launching and unveiling of the Policy.

It is exciting to note that Nigeria secured the commitment of BSV Blockchain Association through Stefan Mathews, co-Founder and Executive Chairman of the nChain Group, a global Blockchain technology and Intellectual Property holding company as well as Executive Committee member of Bitcoin Association, for subsequent batches of the programme.

It may also be recalled that NITDA issued the National Blockchain Adoption Strategy in 2021, after series of engagements with ecosystem stakeholders.

READ ALSO: Nigerian Startup, NearPays Wins Big At GITEX Africa  

The Strategy focused on six initiatives, namely Establishment of Nigeria Blockchain Consortium; Strengthening of the Regulatory and legal framework; Provision of National Digital Identity; Promotion of Blockchain Digital Literacy and Awareness; Creation of Blockchain Business Incentive Programmes; and Establishment of a National Blockchain Sandbox for Proof of Concepts and Pilot Implementation.

The National Blockchain Policy leverages the successes achieved as well as lessons learned from the implementation of the Strategy.

The Director General further reiterated NITDA’s commitment to sustaining the momentum, leveraging Blockchain technology in particular and emerging technologies in general, towards transforming Nigeria into a leading digital economy, providing quality life and economic prosperity for all.

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TECHDIGEST – The Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Ali Ibrahim Pantami yesterday ( 23rd Feb) in Abuja, inaugurated a Committee led by the Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Adeolu Akande, to advise the Federal Government on appropriate measures to take in protection of the nation’s cyberspace and ICT infrastructure from potential attacks especially during the 2023 General Elections.

The Minister, who represented President Mohammadu Buhari, announced that constitution of the Committee was on the directive of Mr. President that he puts in place, a committee that will work to coordinate computer security centres in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry in collaboration with other relevant institutions towards intercepting potential cyber-attacks.

He said with the increased role of ICT in online activities, and its crucial role in the conduct of the 2023 General Elections, in line with the Electoral Act, as amended, the job of the Committee will assist the nation in conducting a free, fair and credible elections.

He directed the Committee, to which he also belongs alongside the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, and the Director General of National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mr. Kashifu Abdullahi, among other CEOs in the ministry, to work round-the-clock from Friday, February 24, 2023 till the morning of Monday, February 27, 2023.

READ ALSO: NITDA Releases Advisory on Fact-checking Misinformation and Disinformation

He said the Committee will also ensure it receives complaints around any attacks to critical infrastructure and ensure such complaints are escalated to relevant institutions, public or private, for necessary remedial actions. The CEO of Galaxy Backbone, Prof. Mohammad Abubakar, and the Special Assistant to the Hon. Minister on Digital Economy, Prof Aminu Ahmad, are members of the Committee, including key directors in the agencies.

“Our main responsibilities in this Committee are more of advisory. Firstly, when it comes to intercepting potential attacks that may come to our cyberspace.

The Committee will coordinate the NCC’s Computer Security Incident Response Team at NCC; the Computer Emergency Readiness and Response Team at the National Information Technology development Agency (NITDA) and the Galaxy Backbone’ National Cybersecurity Centre.

“These three centres must work together, complement each other and ensure they intercept any potential attacks on our cyberspace particularly on our Critical Infrastructure during the election so that we could either take action or provide necessary advice to the government,” Pantami said.

He said the Committee will work closely with institutions such as the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), mobile network operators (MNOs), among others, to collectively safeguard the Nigeria’s cyberspace from potential attacks or cases of vandalism and fibre cuts during the election.

“The challenges of protecting our cyberspace is a collective national responsibility; it is a national assignment. As a sector, we would play our own responsibility objectively and professionally. We would work collectively rather than working individually as agencies since we are in the same sector,” he added.

Chairman of the Advisory Committee, Prof. Adeolu Akande, expressed gratitude to the Hon. Minister for finding him and others worthy to be saddled with the very important national assignment, and assured the Hon. Minister of the readiness of the Committee to work hard towards delivering on its mandates of ensuring, in advisory capacity to the Federal Government and other relevant institutions, the protection of the nation’s cyberspace and ICT infrastructure during the elections.

“The committee members will do everything in their capacity to deliver on their Terms of Reference,” he said.

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TECHDIGEST – In its continued effort at maximising socio-economic opportunities and target of achieving 95% digital literacy penetration by the year 2030 in the country, the Federal Government of Nigeria through the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has engaged Multinationals and Private organisations to develop and co-create National Digital Skills Strategy (NDSS).

The NDSS is a policy document developed by NITDA under the directive of the Honorable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami), to bridge the digital skills gap in the country and develop a clear road map for the diversification of the nation’s economy and sustainability of its digital economy.

The engagement, which was held virtually, had representatives from International Business Machines Corporation (IBM), United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), APPLE, HUAWEI, META, ORACLE, GOOGLE, CISCO Software Inc and many others.

READ ALSO: NAVSA: NITDA Adopts Another 75 Smart Farmers At UI

While giving an insight into the genesis of the development of the NDSS during his remarks, the NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, disclosed that the agency, in collaboration with the Co-Creation Hub, undertook research to understand existing talent and skills which later on birthed the first draft of the NDSS.

Inuwa stated that the NDSS will help re-position the country in alignment with global standards and to take full advantage of the digital economy benefits, while identifying Digital Literacy & Skills as a critical strategic pillar in the Agency’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP) 2021-2024 towards the implementation of the present administration’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS).

“In line with the digital literacy and skills pillar of NDEPS for a Digital Nigeria, NITDA has set out a target of 1 million developers and skills by December 2023 and thus, rolled out several capacity buildings programmes that are targeted at people from different sectors of the economy’, he noted.

The NITDA DG added that many of the capacity-building programmes were conducted in collaboration with professional ICT bodies, international corporations, and non-governmental organisations to provide stronger support for reskilling and upskilling for at-risk or displaced workers.

“As the apex Information Technology development and regulatory agency in the country, the collaboration of the Agency with key multinational and private stakeholders in developing the NDSS will produce a robust strategy. The creation of the first draft by volunteer expert groups, talent gap assessment, and co-creation with government stakeholders are some of the achievements made so far,” he said.

Inuwa also urged everyone, especially stakeholders and other well-meaning Nigerians in the digital economy family to make inputs that would meet the unified mission and vision of the NDSS.

While expressing his belief in the promising outcome of the collaboration, Inuwa stated that “this is a crucial milestone in our efforts to harmoniously engage with Multinationals and Private sectors as one of the key stakeholders for developing and co-creating the NDSS, and to come up with a comprehensive strategy for setting up standards and developing Digital Literacy & Skills in the country, as well as developing IT professional skills of different proficiency levels,” he added.

The Acting Director of the Digital Literacy and Capacity Building Department of NITDA, Dr. Amina Sambo-Magaji thanked all participants for the support and cooperation given thus far.

She stated that the Rule Making Process (RMP) of NITDA has made provision for engagement in the development of the NDSS.

While noting that the selection of the multinationals and tech giants for the collaboration had been carefully done regarding their operations as individual organisations, she was confident that the co-creation of the NDSS will align with the document’s priority and consequently produce a robust one.

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TECHDIGEST – Nigeria and Republic of Niger have signed a bilateral agreement in Abuja for coordination of frequency utilisation along their borders to ensure seamless deployment of services around within the two countries.

The agreement signing ceremony was one of the highlights of the two-day Digital Economy Regional Conference, hosted by the Nigerian government and facilitated by the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, which ended at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja.

Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, signed on behalf of Nigeria, while his Nigerien counterpart, the Minister of Post and New Information Technologies, Mr. Moussa Baraze, signed on behalf of his country.

READ ALSO: NDPB Investigates GT Bank, Zenith Over Data Breach Complaints

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta and Niger Republic’s Chairperson of the National Council for Regulation of Electronic Communications and Post, Mrs. Aichatou Oumani, were witnesses to the agreement, which applies to the co-ordination of frequencies existing in the Nigeria-Niger transboundary areas between 87.5 megahertz (MHz) to 30 gigahertz (GHz).

The agreement indicated it will help in effective coordination and sharing of frequencies and channels in the ‘buffer zone or area’ on borderlines between the two countries and also help to address one of the major issues of signal interference regulation that may arise in telecoms signal transmissions by terrestrial telecoms service providers, as it spells out the procedures for regulating such cases.

The agreement, according to the two parties, provides, in part, that in case of harmful interference affecting one of the parties, the affected party shall inform the other party in writing for necessary action to be carried out.

“Also, the party from whence the interference is originating shall ensure that all necessary means are used to resolve the harmful interference within 30 days of receipt of the notice”, the agreement says.

While the Agreement is without prejudice to the rights and obligations of the parties specified in the Convention, the Constitution of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and other inter-governmental arrangements, it states, however, that the land and mobile services whose use is restricted for security, maritime and national defence or for which information is not available, shall not be subjected to the provisions of the agreement.

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