Nigeria has reclaimed a leading position in global digital policy as Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has been elected vice chair of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for 2025. Representing 48 member countries, the ITU Council is a critical body within the United Nations dedicated to shaping the future of global ICT. Dr. Tijani’s election marks a significant milestone for Nigeria, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of digital expansion and inclusive growth under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Dr. Tijani’s new role places Nigeria at the heart of the global effort to bridge the digital divide, with a focus on connecting the estimated 2.6 billion people still offline worldwide. His leadership is expected to influence key ITU priorities including digital inclusion, cybersecurity, trusted public infrastructure, and meaningful digital access for underserved communities. In his statement, Tijani called the appointment a “profound honour” and pledged to work collaboratively with Council chair Cristiana Flutur and other members to advance shared goals.
The ITU, which has led global ICT initiatives for 160 years, emphasized the importance of its 2025 mandate in accelerating digital inclusion. Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin said the Council is at a turning point, as billions remain unconnected or digitally marginalized. She highlighted that ITU members like Nigeria are now critical to pushing forward a digital future that is inclusive, resilient, and secure.
Dr. Tijani affirmed that Nigeria’s digital goals mirror the ITU’s broader global agenda, especially in promoting equitable access to technology, building digital skills among youth, and strengthening infrastructure. He vowed to use his position to champion international cooperation and innovation that reaches the most vulnerable populations. His leadership, he said, builds on the “progress we’re already making” at the national level.
As vice chair, Tijani will help steer ITU strategy and ensure implementation of critical programs before the next plenipotentiary conference. With strong political backing and a clear vision, Nigeria is now positioned not just as a beneficiary of global digital growth, but as a driving force in shaping its direction—one that seeks to empower billions through access, education, and trust in technology.
Source: Leadership