THE Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Mr Bosun Tijani, has announced plans to elevate the Enugu Tech Festival (ETF) to a national event.
The Minister disclosed this during a working visit to Enugu State, saying he plans to personally attend the festival and ensure its expansion to attract tech professionals from across the country.
The Enugu Tech Festival would help to strengthen the ongoing collaboration between the state and the federal government in advancing technological innovation, digital infrastructure, and entrepreneurship in the southeast region.
Commending the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, Tijani praised his vision for fostering innovation and technological development in Enugu.
He lauded the governor’s achievements in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and industry, highlighting how the advancements lay the foundation for a vibrant digital economy that will empower the state’s youth.
The minister outlined a series of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at further transforming Enugu’s technological landscape.
One of the most significant announcements was the launch of the Project 774 Connectivity Initiative, a project designed to bring internet access to all 17 local government secretariats across the state.
Powered by Galaxy Backbone and NIGCOMSAT, the initiative will ensure seamless connectivity for government offices and the public, facilitating efficient governance and service delivery.
The collaboration between Galaxy Backbone and Enugu State will lead to the establishment of a Digital Innovation Complex.
The complex will serve as a hub for technological growth, digital innovation, training, and entrepreneurial support.
It will also connect over 200 state-owned institutions, including schools, healthcare centers, and government offices, to reliable internet services, further enhancing the state’s digital infrastructure.
Tijani announced the federal government’s plan to extend internet access to underserved areas in the state through the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF).
“This effort will include the installation of a new base station and the laying of 15 kilometers of fiber optic cable to provide high-speed internet.
“As part of this initiative, computer laboratories will be set up in one secondary school and one tertiary institution in Enugu,” he said.
He also announced plans to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Regional Centre at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
“This centre will become a focal point for AI research and development in the South East, offering state-of-the-art facilities to foster innovation in artificial intelligence,” he added.
“As part of this initiative, we plan to train 100 cybersecurity professionals in Enugu, boosting the state’s cybersecurity capabilities as part of a nationwide effort.
“The Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) initiative will train 1.155 million Enugu residents in essential digital skills by 2027.
“This programme will prioritise underserved groups, including artisans, market women, civil servants, and students, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage with the digital economy,” he said.
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