Nigeria’s Bosun Tijani to chair ITU Council 2026, leading global policy on AI, broadband, and digital inclusion to bridge the global digital divide.
In a landmark moment for Africa’s digital landscape, Nigeria has been positioned at the forefront of global telecommunications governance. Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has been confirmed as the Chair of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for 2026. This appointment marks a significant shift, signaling the growing influence of emerging markets in shaping the rules that govern the digital world.
The ITU, founded in 1865 and now a specialized agency of the United Nations, is the highest global authority on information and communication technologies (ICTs). While the Plenipotentiary Conference is the union’s supreme organ, the Council acts as the governing body in the interval between conferences, ensuring that the union’s activities, policies, and strategies respond to the rapidly evolving tech environment.
A Vision for Inclusive Growth
Transitioning from his role as Vice Chair, Dr. Tijani’s elevation comes at a critical juncture. As he prepares to lead the 2026 session, his agenda is clear: building a “future-ready” ITU.
“At a time when technology is reshaping economies and societies at unprecedented speed, our task is to build a stronger, more responsive ITU that works for every nation and every person,” Tijani stated. His leadership is expected to focus heavily on the Connect 2030 Agenda, a global initiative aimed at bridging the “digital divide” that still leaves billions without meaningful internet access.
Global Policy Priorities
Under Nigeria’s chairmanship, the ITU Council 2026 will tackle some of the most pressing challenges in the tech ecosystem:
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Artificial Intelligence (AI): Developing ethical frameworks and innovation policies that allow nations to harness AI while mitigating risks.
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Cybersecurity: Strengthening national frameworks and emergency response teams (CERTs) to combat the rising tide of global cybercrime.
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Broadband Infrastructure: Promoting universal coverage and making internet-enabled devices more affordable for developing regions.
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Spectrum Management: Coordinating the global use of radio frequencies, essential for the expansion of 5G and satellite communications.
Connecting the Dots: Relevant Context
Nigeria’s leadership is not an isolated event but a result of consistent regional growth. According to recent reports by Technology Times, the Nigerian telecoms sector has become the “growth anchor” of the nation’s digital economy, despite facing challenges like infrastructure vandalism and heavy taxation.
Furthermore, the International Telecommunication Union’s own data highlights that while nearly 5.4 billion people are now online, the quality of connection and digital literacy remains uneven. Nigeria’s role will be pivotal in ensuring that the 2026-2030 strategic cycle prioritizes “meaningful connectivity”, a concept that goes beyond simple access to include affordability and safety.
The Road to 2030
The 2026 Council session will serve as the final governance platform before the next leadership elections. It will define the ITU’s budgetary direction and strategic priorities for the end of the decade. For Nigeria, this is more than a diplomatic win; it is an opportunity to advocate for policies that favor digital transformation in the Global South, ensuring that the next wave of technological advancement is inclusive, secure, and sustainable.
