Nigeria is preparing to welcome telecommunications and digital economy leaders from across the continent as Abuja hosts the 7th Ordinary Session of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) Conference of Plenipotentiaries on July 23 and 24. The high-profile gathering is expected to bring together ministers, regulators, industry experts, academics, and development partners from 52 African countries to discuss the future of the continent’s digital and telecommunications landscape.
According to the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the conference serves as the ATU’s highest decision-making platform and will play a crucial role in shaping Africa’s digital agenda over the next four years. Key discussions will focus on strengthening digital infrastructure, expanding meaningful connectivity, improving spectrum management, advancing digital skills, and addressing the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI).
Delegates attending the conference will be tasked with adopting the ATU’s strategic direction, approving its budget and work programme for the 2027–2031 cycle, and electing the organisation’s next secretary-general. Member states will also determine the composition of the union’s administrative council while considering Africa’s common positions ahead of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference scheduled to take place later this year in Doha, Qatar.
Speaking ahead of the event, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani described the conference as a significant milestone for Africa’s digital future. He noted that as countries across the continent accelerate their digital transformation efforts, stronger regional cooperation is needed to develop shared positions on emerging technologies, attract investment, nurture digital talent, and ensure wider access to reliable connectivity for millions of Africans.
One of the conference’s major highlights will be a ministerial dialogue on “Achieving Africa’s Meaningful Connectivity,” jointly convened by the ATU and the GSMA. Discussions are expected to focus on infrastructure investment, affordability, service quality, and strategies for expanding reliable internet access across the continent. The event will conclude with the adoption of the Abuja Declaration, a framework designed to guide governments, regulators, industry players, and development partners in advancing Africa’s digital transformation and strengthening its position in the global technology ecosystem.
source: The cable
