The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has revealed that IHS Towers — one of the largest independent owners, operators and developers of shared communications infrastructure in the world — is set to refurbish the damaged Kano Digital Industrial Park.
The minister made this known when he visited the Park for on-the-spot assessment of the level of damage to the facility.
Daily Trust reported that the park was destroyed, looted and a section set on fire by some irate youths during the August 1 nationwide hardship protest, two weeks before its commissioning.
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The minister said, “It is a great honour to stand before you today on this significant occasion as we announce the support from IHS Towers to refurbish the Digital Innovation Park in Kano, which was unfortunately damaged in recent protests. This park is more than just a building, it is a symbol of Kano’s, and indeed Nigeria’s, aspirations to be at the forefront of the global digital economy.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to IHS for their unwavering commitment to rebuilding this critical hub of innovation. As we all know, the digital economy is reshaping industries across the globe. Technology is now the driving force of progress, enabling more efficient agriculture, transforming healthcare, expanding educational access, and revolutionising finance.”
He explained that it was crucial for Nigeria to be a key player in the transformation, not only for own development but as a contributor to global progress.
“While we invest in digital infrastructure, the real cornerstone of this transformation is talent. Around the world, there is a growing shortage of skilled digital professionals: software developers, data scientists, cybersecurity experts who are driving innovation and growth.
“Nigeria, with its youthful population, is uniquely positioned to fill this gap. Standing behind me are over 300 young people from Kano who are currently benefiting from the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme. This initiative, launched by the Federal Government, is training three million Nigerians in digital and technical skills, ensuring we are not just participants but leaders in the global technology space.
“I am proud to say that Kano State has the highest number of participants in this programme. These young people represent the future, not only of Nigeria but of the global digital workforce.”
He further pointed out that in the contemporary world, technology is the key to unlocking productivity and driving the diversification of economies and while many countries face declining populations, Africa and Nigeria in particular has the advantage of a growing, dynamic workforce.
“This is our moment to become a net exporter of technology talent, while also strengthening our own local industries,” he added.
Earlier in his remarks, the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, who condemned the vandalism said it was a setback to the state’s digital development and to Nigeria’s broader technological aspirations.
He extended the government’s sympathy to the ministry, assuring attendees that measures were being taken to address the situation. He noted that security agencies, with the support of local community leaders, had recovered a significant portion of the stolen equipment.
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