In a bold move to enhance digital connectivity, the Nigerian government has announced a $2 billion investment aimed at expanding its fibre optic infrastructure. This initiative, revealed by Minister Dr. Bosun Tijani during the G20 Digital Economy Group Meeting in Maceio, Brazil on September 14, 2024, seeks to extend the country's fibre optic backbone from 35,000 kilometers to an impressive 125,000 kilometers. This expansion is supported by the US Trade and Development Agency, the European Union, and various global partners, highlighting the collaborative effort to boost Nigeria's digital landscape. [c6e5a38b]
The investment is deemed essential for driving the digital economy, promoting social inclusion, and improving access to essential services. As part of this initiative, the Nigerian government has set an ambitious goal of achieving 70% digital literacy by 2027 through its 3MTT program. Additionally, the establishment of the National Broadband Alliance aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of this extensive project. [c6e5a38b]
In a recent discussion, Bowale Odukale, a US-based communication expert, emphasized the importance of digital literacy for Nigeria's resilience in the digital age. He advocates for significant investment in digital literacy education and infrastructure as essential for economic growth and personal development. Odukale pointed out the challenges posed by privacy concerns and cybersecurity threats, which necessitate enhanced digital skills among the population. [e641f195]
To address these challenges, Odukale suggests incorporating digital literacy into school curriculums and providing community training, especially in rural areas. He believes that these initiatives will bridge the digital divide and foster an inclusive society. Furthermore, he encourages collaboration between the government, private sector, NGOs, and educational institutions to promote digital literacy, which is crucial for Nigeria's economic resilience. [e641f195]
In a significant step towards digital governance, over 90% of Nigerian adults have registered in the digital ID system, which is expected to facilitate better access to services and enhance interoperability among government agencies. New legislation is also being introduced to further improve digital governance, ensuring that the country is well-equipped to meet the challenges of the digital age. [c6e5a38b]