Nigeria is officially making its move to stay at the center of world technology decisions. The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, has announced that Nigeria wants to keep its seat on the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for the 2027–2030 term.
The announcement was made during the 2026 ITU Council meeting currently happening in Geneva, Switzerland.
Why This Matters
The ITU is the United Nations’ agency for digital technology. Being on the Council is like having a seat on the “board of directors” for the world’s internet and phone systems.
Nigeria has been a member of the ITU since 1961 and has been very active lately. Here is what the country has been working on:
• Stronger Internet Cables: Nigeria is pushing for better protection of the giant cables under the ocean that provide us with internet. If these are protected, the internet becomes more reliable for everyone.
• Giving Everyone a Voice: Nigeria is asking the ITU to make sure more countries have a say in tech rules, not just the richest ones.
• Better Connectivity: The goal is to make sure “meaningful connectivity” which means internet that is fast and affordable enough to actually be useful reaches every corner of the country.
What Happens Next?
The big decision will be made at the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference later in 2026. This is a major global meeting where the future direction of digital policy and technology will be decided for the next few years.
Nigeria is now talking to other member countries to get their support and votes. By staying on the Council, Nigeria ensures that African needs are considered when the world decides how new technologies like AI and 5G should be governed.
