The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, in partnership with the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has officially opened the 13th Regular Meeting of the National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE). The gathering unites government leaders and industry experts to address critical issues shaping Nigeria’s digital landscape.
The five-day programme, taking place at Crispan Suites and Event Centre in Jos, is themed “Accelerating Inclusive Digital Transformation: Bridging Gaps and Fostering Sustainable Growth Through Innovation.” It aims to deepen digital inclusion and support national development through strategic, technology-driven solutions.
In his welcome address, Mr. Lamba Peter Bot, Permanent Secretary of the Plateau State Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, expressed delight in hosting delegates for the council’s 13th edition. He described the meeting as a renewed commitment to building Nigeria’s future through technology and inclusive digital progress.
He noted that the theme calls on participants to bridge the gap between the connected and the unconnected while advancing innovation and youth empowerment. He reaffirmed the council’s role in driving sustainability, supporting startups, and developing solutions to strengthen the nation’s digital economy.
Delivering his opening remarks, Engr. Nadungu Gagare, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, emphasized that the theme underscores the urgency of accelerating inclusive digital transformation nationwide. He noted that digital tools now power critical sectors and must be strategically deployed to shape Nigeria’s economic future.
He stressed that bridging digital gaps remains central to the Ministry’s mandate, pointing to the need for wider broadband access, stronger digital skills, and policies that protect citizens while enabling innovation. He further highlighted Nigeria’s ambition to emerge as a leading hub for digital services and innovation.
Declaring the technical session open, Hon. Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, Plateau State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation—representing Governor Mutfwang—welcomed delegates and reinforced the importance of ensuring equitable digital access. He emphasized empowering communities and providing opportunities for every Nigerian to contribute to national development.
He reaffirmed Plateau State’s dedication to promoting innovation, supporting startups, and advancing digital solutions through collaborative partnerships. He officially opened the session, urging participants to work collectively toward an inclusive and sustainable digital future.
Also speaking, Dr. Datong Dominic Gwanman, Director General of PICTDA, expressed pride in Plateau State’s role as host, noting that the council’s presence reflects the government’s strong commitment to digital innovation. He highlighted PICTDA’s progress in automating government processes, including the full digitalization of school management, with plans to expand these efforts across other sectors.
Mr. Abba Guguwa, Permanent Secretary of the Kano State Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, stated that the programme seeks to develop comprehensive memos to guide institutional transformation, accelerate procedures, and advance Nigeria’s socioeconomic development.
Dr. Garba Gandu, Senior Technical Adviser to the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council, emphasized that Nigeria must adopt global best practices in digital skills, upskilling, and cross-skilling to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving technological era.
Bringing the session to a close, Engr. Gagare reviewed memoranda on rural telecommunications expansion and enhanced data privacy. The proposals centred on sustainability, job creation, and mandatory capacity-building to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy and align with global standards.
