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Our 3MTT scheme has launched 3m Nigerians into global hub-Engr Yabo+Photos
The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Engr Faruk Yusuf Yabo has said the 3MTT is justifiably launching three million Nigerians into the global hub.
Speaking at the ongoing 12th National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, NCCDE holding from 2nd To 6th December in Makurdi, Benue State, Engr Yabo said:
“Looking at this eminent gathering today, I am proud to inform you that the Ministry has a dedicated National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), set up as a digital innovation and research facility focused on AI, Robotics and Drones, Internet of Things (IOT), and other emerging technologies, aimed at transforming the Nigerian digital economy, in line with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020-2030.
“Also, the ongoing nationwide talent development 3MTT, aimed to train three million digital talents, is justifiably positioning Nigeria as a global hub for the application of AI.
” Also, the recent effort of the Ministry to drive home-grown research through the provision of research grants to forty-five Artificial Intelligence starts-ups and researchers through the Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research Scheme (NAIRS) in critical sectors of the country is evident of emerging Nigeria’s talent and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
” Additionally, the boundaries of Nigeria’s AI efforts extend beyond domestic lines. In 2023, Nigeria signed the Bletch-ley Declaration on AI, along with 28 other nations, including the UK and France, committing to AI development that mitigates risk.
” Similarly, Nigeria joined 18 different countries that adopted the United State-led coalition to ensure AI is secured by design.
“The acceleration and enhancement of AI in Nigeria, the Ministry has ensured the provision of adequate infrastructure through the Right-of-Way (RoW) Policy where telecommunication operators pay to state governments to lay fiber optic cables that carry internet traffic on state roads.
“In 2013 the National Economic Council (NEC) agreed on a maximum RoW charge of N145 per linear meter, a policy meant to streamline the costs for telecommunication charges.
” January 2020 was a step in the right direction when the Nigerian Governors Forum accordingly resolved that telecommunication operators were to pay N145 in line with NEC’s approval.
“More than 10 states have either crashed RoW Charges to N145 per linear meter of fiber optic or completely eliminated the charges to zero. This year 2024, the Executive Vice-Chairman NCC stated that discussion with other state governments were ongoing to secure additional waivers on RoW Charges.
“Also there have been calls from well-meaning Nigerians on states to implement the harmonized RoW Charges for obvious benefits for the sector.
“The National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) will always begin with you as the technical session of experts and industry stakeholders.
“At this session, you are expected to review the implementation of resolutions reached at the 11th Council meeting and how they have contributed to the development of the Nigeria Digital Economy sector within the period.
” You will also be involved in the consideration of memoranda submitted for the 12th NCCIDE meeting given them the desired content that would meet the standard for council approval for the development of the Digital Economy sector.
“I wish on behalf of the Hon. Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Dr. Bosun Tijani, management and staff of the ministry thank our Chief Host, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr Hyacinth Iormen Alia, His Excellency the Deputy Governor and members of the State Executive Council for accepting to host the 12th Council meeting and providing the necessary support for the success of this event even when the economy is affecting governments at all levels.
“The reception we have received since our arrival in this beautiful ancient city has been heartwarming.
“A dedicated National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), set up as a digital innovation and research facility focused on AI, Robotics and Drones, Internet of Things (IOT), and other emerging technologies, aimed at transforming the Nigerian digital economy, in line with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020-2030.
“The session has been sub-divided into 5 syndicate groups to handle memos that fall under each specific category of ;
a. Knowledge;
b. policy;
c. Infrastructure;
d. Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Capital and
e. Trade
“Distinguished participants, ladies and gentlemen, this crucial interaction represents our collective efforts towards re-positioning our country in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration of Renewed Hope Agenda.
“It’s therefore calls for the dedication of everybody engaged in this assignment to chat a path towards the formulation of policies and new strategies for the realization of a new Nigeria.
“I wish to encourage our distinguished participants to take advantage of the many sessions at this meeting to come up to speed on the sub-themes in line with the present-day realities and also, take advantage of the networking opportunities available during the Council meeting to forge strategic partnerships that will further enhance developments in the digital technology sector.
“Once again, on behalf of the Hon. Minister, I most sincerely welcome you all to the 12th National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and implore you to maximize your participation by contributing fully to all the discussions with a view to moving the digital economy sector and the country’s economy to the next level.
…commend his leadership qualities, contribution to national development
By Gloria Ikibah
The Chairman House of Representatives’ Committee onthe Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Rep. Muktar Betara has congratulated Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago on his 51st birthday.
Rep. Betara who represents Biu/Bayo/Shani/Kwaya Kusar Federal Constituency of Borno State, in a congratulatory message admitted Governor Bago’s relentless advocacy for Nigerites as well as the meaningful contributions to legislative processes that shaped national development while serving as Member of the House of Representatives.
Thrilled by the leadership qualities of Governor Bago, he applauded various unprecedented developmental projects initiated since his assumption of office in 2023.
He said: “Your Excellency, on this special occasion of your 51st birthday, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to you.
“This milestone is a testament to a life dedicated to public service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the progress of Niger State and Nigeria at large.
“As the Governor of Niger State, your visionary leadership has continued to inspire hope and transformation across various sectors.
“Your dedication to infrastructural development, education, healthcare, and especially, agriculture, and security has significantly improved the lives of the people, reinforcing your reputation as a leader who prioritises the welfare of his people.
“Your efforts in fostering economic growth and good governance have set a solid foundation for sustainable development in the state.
“Before assuming office as Governor, your impactful tenure as a Member of the House of Representatives was marked by your relentless advocacy for your constituents and meaningful contributions to legislative processes that shaped national development.
“As you celebrate this new chapter of your life, may you continue to be blessed with wisdom, strength, and good health to steer Niger State toward greater heights. Happy birthday !”
…as currency swap boosting bilateral trade
By Gloria Ikibah
The Nigerian government is deepening economic collaboration with China to drive industrialisation and economic diversification.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known when she received the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, in Abuja.
The Minister emphasised that Nigeria’s longstanding ties with China, spanning over five decades, align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic expansion and resilience.
Outlining key areas where Nigeria seeks Chinese support, including electric vehicle production, digital technology, renewable energy, and agriculture, Amb. Odumegwu-Ojukwu acknowledged China’s significant role in Nigeria’s road and rail infrastructure development and noted that the country is taking concrete steps to modernize its ports and power sector to attract more investment.
She also highlighted the importance of cultural ties, and noted the growing interest among Nigerian youths in learning the Chinese language.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its economic partnership with China, highlighting that the ongoing currency swap agreement is already enhancing trade relations between both nations.
“It’s quite interesting that a large population of Nigeria youth is inching towards Chinese Language. A lot of Nigerian Universities are desirous to offer Chinese Language. Chinese had become the language of trade in the world.
“Nigeria-China will continue to relate not just bilaterally but multilaterally.
“We expect that we will continue to get the support of China but we will always reciprocate that multilaterally.
“In line with President Tinubu’s plan to industrialise Nigeria, we expect Chinese cooperation in establishing assembly plants of electric vehicles; digital communication, renewable energy, all aspects of digital technology, agriculture because of food insecurity as the government is interested in seeing that food gets to the poorest of the poor. Government is not just talking about food but has established a separate Ministry of Livestock,” the minister stated.
She urged China to extend trade tariff exemptions to its exports, similar to the concessions already granted to 33 other African nations, emphasising that the Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizes stronger ties between citizens and deeper country-to-country partnerships.
In response, Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Nigeria, describing the country as a key strategic partner. He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to China and participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) had elevated diplomatic and economic engagements between both nations.
Amb. Yu highlighted ongoing collaborations in infrastructure, including roads, railway modernization, power, industrial parks, and the Lekki Deep Sea Port. He disclosed that trade volume between the two nations exceeded $21 billion last year, with Nigeria’s exports to China accounting for over 25% of this figure.
He further underscored the role of manufacturing in industrialization, pointing to the recently renewed $2 billion currency swap agreement as a tool to enhance financial cooperation, boost bilateral trade, and attract more investment.
Expressing optimism about the future, the envoy stated that these efforts would ultimately yield tangible benefits for ordinary citizens in both countries.
He said: “We have a comprehensive strategic partnership with Nigeria. China would want Nigeria to play a big role in the international scene. We want Nigeria to become a member of G-20. These will all provide opportunity for China and Nigeria to further work together closely.
“For China, we have been very consistent. We give grant to any African countries; we don’t give any conditions.”
He further acknowledged that it was important that the two countries met to review how far they have performed in their bilateral cooperation.
Speaker Abbas Hails Governor Bago @51
Betara Celebrates Governor Bago @51
Nigeria Seeks Stronger Economic Ties with China
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