Nigeria’s digital transformation takes center stage at the upcoming Policy Implementation Assisted Forum (PIAFo), happening on July 10, 2024 in Lagos.
The forum’s theme: “Accelerating Collective Prosperity through Technical Efficiency,” brings together key stakeholders to dissect and drive the successful implementation of the country’s renewed digital economy blueprint.
The forum will focus on the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy’s recently-released strategic plan. This plan serves as the anchor policy for PIAFo, outlining Nigeria’s digital aspirations.
Organizers emphasize that Nigeria’s current digital footprint positions the country well to achieve its ambitious targets. PIAFo, as an initiative designed to translate policies into action, underscores the importance of effective dialogue among stakeholders to ensure these goals are met.
The forum boasts a prestigious line-up of speakers. Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of FMCIDE, will deliver the keynote address. Joining him will be Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and Prof. Ibrahim Adeyanju, CEO of Galaxy Backbone Limited, who will present papers on critical topics. Additionally, industry leaders will champion discussions by participating in panel sessions and addressing various digital economy themes.
PIAFo Lead Executive, Mr. Omobayo Azeez, highlighted the forum’s objective: to ensure targets outlined in digital economy policy documents go beyond paper. He emphasized the urgency of achieving these goals within set timeframes, as they are central to Nigeria’s vision of a robust digital ecosystem. This ecosystem is crucial for fostering efficient modern economies, enhanced business operations, smarter public services, and job creation.
Nigeria has set ambitious national targets. These include achieving a 70% broadband penetration rate by 2025, 80% population coverage by 2027, and a 500% increase in broadband investment by the same year. Additionally, the country aims for a 22% increase in net GDP contribution from the digital economy, a 100% surge in telecoms revenue for the government by 2027, and a 50% improvement in Quality of Service by the end of 2024. Broadening access also features prominently, with a target of reducing the unserved population in rural areas to 20% by 2027.
Beyond infrastructure, Nigeria is committed to fostering innovation and inclusion. The country aims for a 100% increase in the number of startups with access to incentives and procurement opportunities. Additionally, it seeks to rank among the top 50 countries in Artificial Intelligence (AI) by 2030, creating over 50,000 jobs in the AI industry. Finally, Nigeria strives to achieve 70% digital literacy for its youth and adults by 2027, with at least 40% female participation in all training initiatives.
Organized by BusinessMetrics Limited, PIAFo has consistently attracted broad participation from public and private sector players, the international community, interest groups, and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs). The forum plays a vital role in fostering a conducive policy environment that will propel Nigeria towards a thriving digital future.
