Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has withdrawn his candidacy for the position of Deputy Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
Tijani announced his decision in a statement posted on LinkedIn on Friday, saying he had decided to remain focused on Nigeria’s ongoing digital transformation agenda.
He described the ITU position as an attractive opportunity for both himself and Nigeria, noting that his election would have given the country the prospect of having a Nigerian serve as an elected official of the UN telecommunications agency for the first time in its 160-year history.
However, the minister said he believes his most significant contribution at this time would be to remain in Nigeria and focus on digital initiatives being implemented by the Federal Government.
Tijani highlighted several projects being pursued under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, including Project BRIDGE, NUCAP, the development of two communications satellites, a national alphanumeric postcode system and the Nigeria Web Design Standards.
According to the minister, Project BRIDGE is expected to deploy 90,000 kilometres of open-access fibre infrastructure across Nigeria, while NUCAP is aimed at expanding mobile connectivity to underserved and unserved communities through the deployment of thousands of telecommunications towers.
He also pointed to plans for two new communications satellites, which he said would help expand coverage and strengthen Nigeria’s national resilience.
Another initiative highlighted by Tijani is the development of a national alphanumeric postcode system designed to provide homes and businesses with precise digital addresses.
He said the Nigeria Web Design Standards would promote greater consistency, accessibility and citizen-centred design across government digital services.
Tijani said these projects, alongside other initiatives supported by the President, could have a lasting impact on Nigeria’s digital economy while contributing to the ITU’s broader goal of achieving universal, meaningful and inclusive connectivity.
He said his focus would remain on supporting the Federal Government’s digital economy agenda and ensuring that the programmes deliver long-term value for Nigerians.
The ITU is a specialised agency of the United Nations responsible for issues relating to information and communication technologies.
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Cecilia Attah is a tech analyst with a degree from Benue State University. She covers tech news and startups at TechRegard with a focus on how technology is transforming Africa and shaping the global landscape.
