Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has been elected Vice Chair of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for 2025.
This marks Nigeria’s first leadership role on the ITU Council in nearly 50 years and signals the country’s rising influence in global digital policy.
Nigeria’s rising influence on global digital policy
The election took place on Tuesday during the ITU Conference in Geneva, Switzerland. The ITU, founded in 1865, is the United Nations’ oldest specialised agency responsible for information and communication technologies (ICTs).
Its global mandate is to connect the world through innovative and sustainable digital solutions.
Dr Tijani described his appointment as “a profound honour,” expressing gratitude to the ITU leadership and member states for their trust. He pledged to work closely with ITU Council Chair Ms Cristiana Flutur and fellow members to promote inclusive digital development worldwide.
This leadership role places Nigeria at the heart of global efforts to advance connectivity, cybersecurity, and digital inclusion.
Dr Tijani emphasised that the appointment aligns with Nigeria’s national priorities under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on expanding internet access, enhancing digital skills, and building secure public digital infrastructure.
Steering global digital infrastructure and access
As Vice Chair, Dr. Tijani will help guide discussions on the future of digital infrastructure, equitable access, and digital literacy.
He highlighted the importance of global collaboration in building resilient infrastructure and ensuring meaningful connectivity for underserved communities.
“Nigeria remains committed in her resolve to support the collective mission of the ITU, particularly by prioritising key areas such as provision of resilient and sustainable digital infrastructures and ensuring timely access to meaningful connectivity for all communities, especially the underserved,” Dr Tijani stated.
ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin acknowledged the Council’s critical role in addressing the needs of the 2.6 billion unconnected people worldwide, underscoring the importance of the Council’s leadership in creating a “Digital Future For All”.
Dr. Tijani’s election is seen as a diplomatic and strategic gain for Nigeria, enhancing the country’s capacity to influence digital development across Africa and beyond.
It also reflects Nigeria’s growing engagement in shaping global technology governance, reinforcing its commitment to domestic digital transformation and international cooperation.
This appointment marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria in the global digital arena, positioning the country as a key player in shaping policies that affect connectivity, cybersecurity, and digital equity worldwide.
