ATCON President Olusola Teniola on building Nigeria’s digital economy

Olusola Teniola, President of the Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), shared insights on the critical need to foster convergence, collaboration, and partnerships across various ministries to drive the growth of Nigeria's digital economy at the Digital Economy Summit. Speaking with CNBC Africa's Christy Cole, Teniola emphasized the significance of aligning efforts between the Ministry of Trade and Investment and the communications ministry, which now includes the digital economy portfolio. He highlighted the importance of incorporating not only information and communication technology (ICT) but also other technological sectors, underlining the value of having the ministry of science and technology involved in the process. Teniola stressed the necessity of establishing a clear and actionable communique following such collaborative efforts to ensure tangible outcomes and objectives for building a robust digital economy. Without a defined roadmap and goals, he cautioned that initiatives may remain at the surface level without driving substantial progress. By outlining specific strategies and objectives, stakeholders can work towards collectively advancing Nigeria's digital economy and reaping the benefits of technological innovation and digitization. The digital landscape offers immense opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and enhanced competitiveness on a global scale. Teniola's call for strategic collaboration and partnership underscores the importance of leveraging diverse expertise and resources across ministries to propel Nigeria's digital transformation. By fostering an environment conducive to innovation, investment, and digital infrastructure development, the country can position itself as a leader in the digital economy landscape, driving sustainable growth and socio-economic development. As Nigeria navigates the complexities of digital transformation, the active involvement and coordination of key stakeholders, including government entities, industry players, and regulatory bodies, will be essential to harnessing the full potential of the digital economy. By working together towards a shared vision and actionable goals, Nigeria can pave the way for a vibrant and inclusive digital ecosystem that empowers businesses, individuals, and communities across the nation.