Nigeria's Telecoms Sector Discusses Digital Innovation Challenges

At a conference organized by the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters’ Association (NITRA) in Lagos, industry stakeholders reflected on Nigeria's telecommunications journey and the challenges of digital innovation. The conference, themed ‘Bridging Nigeria’s Digital Divide with Scientific Innovation,’ featured remarks from NITRA Chairman Chike Onwuegbuchi, who underscored the theme's relevance due to the impact of digital innovation in the telecom sector.

Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), noted the sector's transformation from fewer than half a million connected telephone lines before GSM's introduction in 2001 to over 200 million active subscriptions today. He emphasized the role of private sector investment and technological innovation in bridging the digital divide.

Funke Tonye Preghafi, Chief Financial and Operations Officer at Quomodo Systems Africa, highlighted the necessity of addressing connectivity issues to effectively discuss Nigeria's digital divide, stressing the importance of secure networks and robust cybersecurity.