FG Approves Telecom Tariff Hike To Sustain Industry Growth – Minister Bosun Tijani

The Federal Government has approved a 50% tariff increase for telecommunications services in Nigeria. According to the Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, this adjustment is critical to sustaining the industry and enabling telecom companies to invest in infrastructure and improve connectivity across the nation.

The announcement was made during the maiden Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN) Summit held in Ibadan. Themed “The Rain of Transformation is Upon Us: CEOs Arise,” the event highlighted the role of technology in driving Nigeria’s development.

Youths: Key to Technological Advancement

Minister Tijani emphasized the importance of Nigerian youths in fostering technological growth, noting that infrastructure alone cannot drive progress. He stated:

“The biggest challenge for governments is individuals. While we invest in infrastructure, we need innovators, entrepreneurs, and builders to create technologies that address societal needs.”

Tijani also praised Dr. Olusola Ayoola, the founder of RAIN, for his efforts in advancing Nigeria’s ICT sector. He commended Ayoola for positioning Ibadan as a hub for technological innovation, stating:

“Without individuals like Ayoola and their contributions to the ICT space, Nigeria’s technological progress would be slow.”

AI and Robotics: Transforming Nigeria’s Future

Highlighting the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics in Nigeria, the minister said these technologies would shape the nation’s productivity and prosperity. He noted:

“The future of robotics and AI in Nigeria is promising. With platforms like RAIN, we’ll witness direct applications of innovation from our young people.”
Tijani reiterated the government’s commitment to creating infrastructure that supports technological advancements.

Technology as a Solution to Youth Unemployment

Chief Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House Committee on the Federal Road Maintenance Agency, underscored the need to harness youth potential in technology to combat unemployment. Similarly, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, former CEO of First Bank of Nigeria Ltd., highlighted the transformative impact of AI and robotics, stating that these innovations enhance decision-making, reduce costs, and personalize customer experiences.

Oyo State’s Technological Strides

Bayo Akande, Senior Special Assistant to Oyo State Governor on ICT and e-Governance, shared the state government’s achievements in technology. He disclosed that Oyo had invested heavily in building an AI and robotics hub for education, aiming to create an enabling environment for tech transformation.

Call to Action for Stakeholders

Dr. Olusola Ayoola, CEO of RAIN and summit convener, emphasized that Nigeria possesses the capacity to thrive in cutting-edge technologies like AI and robotics. He urged stakeholders to support initiatives that drive local expertise and innovation, stating:

“Our vision is to promote technological development by creating networks across institutions in Nigeria. We aim to make AI and robotics accessible to the youth.”

Ayoola revealed that RAIN already has a presence in 50 institutions nationwide, with plans to scale up efforts in technology development.

Event Highlights

The summit also featured an award presentation to Minister Bosun Tijani and Justice Ruqayat Ayoola, mother of RAIN’s founder, for their contributions to technology and innovation.