The 13th Regular Meeting of the National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) officially opened in Jos, Plateau State, yesterday, focusing on a robust strategy to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide and accelerate national growth.
The five-day event, a partnership between the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and the Plateau State Government, is being held at the Crispan Suites and Event Centre under the theme: “Accelerating Inclusive Digital Transformation: Bridging Gaps and Fostering Sustainable Growth Through Innovation.”
In his opening address, Engr. Nadungu Gagare, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry, emphasized the urgent need for inclusive digital transformation.
He stated that bridging the digital gap is “central to the Ministry’s mandate,” highlighting the importance of expanding broadband access, strengthening digital skills, and ensuring that “no community or demographic is left behind.”
Engr. Gagare also affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to positioning Nigeria as a global hub for digital services and innovation by supporting local startups and promoting sound policies.
Representing Governor Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Plateau State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, welcomed delegates and stressed the council’s theme. He underlined the critical nature of equitable access and empowering every citizen to contribute to national development.
Engr Datong Dominic Gwanman, Director General of the Plateau State ICT Development Agency (PICTDA), noted that the state is actively driving transformation by digitizing manual processes, successfully completing the digitalization of school management, with plans to expand across other sectors.
The technical sessions will focus on formulating high-impact policies. Mr. Abba Guguwa, Permanent Secretary of the Kano State Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, highlighted that the programme aims to establish comprehensive memoranda to guide institutional transformation and accelerate national progress.
The necessity of adopting global best practices and promoting extensive digital skills, upskilling, and cross-skilling to maintain Nigeria’s competitiveness was championed by Dr. Garba Gandu, Senior Adviser Technical to the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council.
The first session concluded with Engr. Gagare reviewing key proposals on advancing rural telecommunications and promoting data privacy, underscoring the drive for sustainable job creation and strengthened digital governance.
