The Federal Government has approved a 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs, aimed at sustaining the telecom industry in Nigeria. Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, made the announcement, stating that the hike would allow telecom companies to invest in new infrastructure and enhance connectivity across the country.
Tijani shared this development at the inaugural Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN) summit in Ibadan, themed “The Rain of Transformation is Upon Us: CEOs Arise.” He emphasized the critical role of Nigerian youth in driving technological progress, noting that the current administration was focused on providing the necessary infrastructure.
The minister highlighted that, while the government plays a significant role in investing in foundational infrastructure, it is the innovators, entrepreneurs, and individuals who will ultimately build the technologies that drive progress.
Tijani praised Dr. Olusola Ayoola, the founder of RAIN, for his contributions to the ICT sector and for putting Ibadan on the technological map. He expressed gratitude for Ayoola’s efforts, noting that the work of such individuals is essential for Nigeria’s technological development.
On the future of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) in Nigeria, Tijani pointed out that the country’s productivity and prosperity would stem from the smart application of AI. He expressed optimism that RAIN’s efforts would foster innovation among the youth, leading to direct applications of the technologies they are developing.
Tijani reaffirmed that the government would continue to focus on creating an environment conducive to technological growth through investment in infrastructure.
The summit also featured key contributions from Chief Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Road Maintenance Agency, who emphasized the importance of technology capacity-building for Nigerian youth. He argued that creating opportunities in tech would help alleviate the country’s high youth unemployment rate.
Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, the former CEO of First Bank of Nigeria Ltd., spoke about the profound impact of robotics and AI, highlighting how these technologies are revolutionizing business operations by improving decision-making, reducing costs, and offering personalized services to customers.
Bayo Akande, the Senior Special Assistant to Oyo State Governor on ICT and e-Governance, discussed the state’s technological achievements, including significant investments in building a robotics and AI hub for educational purposes.
Dr. Olusola Ayoola, the CEO of RAIN, emphasized the summit’s goal to bring together Nigerian youth and entrepreneurs, urging the government and other stakeholders to recognize Nigeria’s capacity for tech innovation. He called for a policy direction that would facilitate easy learning of AI and robotics through local content and experts.
The event culminated in an award of excellence being presented to Minister Bosun Tijani and Justice Ruqayat Ayoola, the mother of RAIN’s CEO.
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