Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has marked his two-year anniversary by driving significant impact and innovation, transforming the country’s digital landscape through ambitious reforms, investments, and skill-building initiatives.
Major Achievements
Dr. Tijani’s tenure saw the rollout of Nigeria’s National AI Strategy, co-created with 120 experts, which earned global recognition as a pioneering policy framework. He strengthened data protection by championing the NDPC Act and helped pass the Digital Economy Bill’s first reading, laying robust legislative foundations for tech sector growth. Infrastructure investment soared, with ninefold increases and the approval of a $2 billion fibre optic rollout to cover 90,000km nationwide, targeting 98% coverage by 2025.
Innovation in Digital Economy
Tijani spearheaded key programs like the 3 Million Talents Technology (3MTT) initiative and the Presidential Project 774, both designed to equip millions of youth and every local government area with essential technology skills and connectivity. Over 500 government technologists received training in AI and Digital Public Infrastructure, while rural connectivity and right-of-way reforms rapidly expanded access and reduced costs for telecom providers.
Challenges and Impact
Despite some criticisms—such as concerns about payment logistics within the 3MTT program and questions on sustainability—Tijani maintained transparent communication and continued to push transformative projects. Sector GDP contribution is projected to grow from 16% to 22%, highlighting the lasting economic impact of these digital reforms.
Leadership and Legacy
Coming from a startup and tech advocacy background, Tijani leveraged his experience with Co-Creation Hub (CcHUB) to foster collaboration between government, industry, and youth. His approach combined grassroots skill development, international engagement, and regulatory modernization, laying a foundation for generational change in Nigeria’s tech-driven prosperity.
Bosun Tijani’s two-year journey has been a story of sustained innovation, strategic reforms, and broad-based impact that are transforming Nigeria’s digital future.
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