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President Muhammadu Buhari has declared that the diversification of Nigeria’s economy had become urgent in the face of the falling oil prices at the international market.
He observed that digital technologies had become useful tools in this regard, adding that a knowledge economy would boost his administration’s anti-corruption crusade.
Besides, the president has directed the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Pantami, to liaise with relevant agencies for the protection of critical national infrastructure.
He gave the order at the unveiling of the National Broadband Plan 2020–2025; Communications and Digital Economy Complex; Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training; Abuja Emergency Communication Centre and the National Emergency Toll-Free line, 112, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Buhari said government had taken advantage of digital technologies to increase access by Nigerians in time of distress nationwide, adding: “This will go a long way in supporting our efforts to improve the security of lives and property.”
He challenged mobile network operators on the actualisation of the national broadband plan by giving special attention to un-served and under-served areas.
Bemoaning the vandalisation of telecommunications equipment, Buhari assured the players of government’s commitment to enthroning a conducive environment for the successful implementation of the broadband plan that seeks to boost penetration and deployment of 4G across the federation.
On the Digital Nigeria Programme, the Nigerian leader explained that it was one of government’s key initiatives to empower innovators and entrepreneurs with skills to thrive in the emerging digital economy.
