Oduwole Advocates for Digital Infrastructure Investment

On September 29, 2026, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, called for increased investment in digital infrastructure during the Nigeria Digital Connectivity Investment Forum in Abuja. She emphasized that digital connectivity must lead to productivity and tangible economic opportunities for Nigerians and businesses.

Oduwole described digital infrastructure as essential for the investment climate, business competitiveness, and international trade, stating that it should extend beyond telecommunications to include necessary infrastructure for production, connection, investment, and trade. She highlighted the importance of fibre networks, data centres, and digital platforms, comparing them to traditional trade routes.

Oduwole noted that telecommunications contributed over nine percent to Nigeria's GDP in the first quarter of 2026 and referenced a study indicating that mobile broadband coverage reduced extreme poverty among Nigerian households. She warned that infrastructure alone would not yield economic benefits unless businesses could effectively utilize connectivity for market access and compliance, linking this goal to the African Continental Free Trade Area.