The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, in partnership with the Plateau State Government, has formally opened the 13th Regular Meeting of the National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) in Jos.

The five-day programme, holding at Crispan Suites and Event Centre, is themed “Accelerating Inclusive Digital Transformation: Bridging Gaps and Fostering Sustainable Growth Through Innovation.” It brings together federal and state officials, policy makers, and industry experts to deliberate on strategies that will strengthen Nigeria’s digital future.

In his welcome address, Mr. Lamba Peter Bot, Permanent Secretary of the Plateau State Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, expressed delight that Plateau State is hosting this year’s council meeting. He described the gathering as a renewed commitment to shaping the nation’s digital future through innovation and inclusive growth.

According to him, the theme serves as a call to action—urging government and stakeholders to bridge gaps between the connected and unconnected, empower young people, support startups, and build digital solutions capable of advancing national sustainability.

Delivering his opening remarks, Engr. Nadungu Gagare, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, said the theme underscores the urgent need to accelerate digital transformation across all sectors. He stressed that digital technology now drives global competitiveness and must be harnessed to shape Nigeria’s economic progress.

He emphasized that bridging digital gaps remains central to the Ministry’s mandate, highlighting the importance of expanding broadband access, strengthening digital literacy, and ensuring that no demographic or community is left behind. He added that sound policies and regulations are essential for protecting citizens while promoting innovation.

Declaring the technical session open on behalf of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Plateau State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, welcomed delegates from across the federation. He said inclusive digital transformation is key to empowering communities, accelerating development, and ensuring opportunities for every Nigerian.

Dr. Shurkuk reaffirmed Plateau State’s commitment to supporting startups, developing homegrown digital solutions, and building strong partnerships with global organizations. He urged participants to work collaboratively toward a digital future that is equitable, sustainable, and innovation-driven.

Also speaking, the Director-General of PICTDA, Dr. Datong Dominic Gwanman, noted that hosting the council meeting underscores the Plateau State Government’s strong commitment to digital innovation. He highlighted the agency’s strides, including the digitalization of school management systems and ongoing efforts to expand data-driven solutions across key sectors.

From Kano State, Mr. Abba Guguwa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, noted that the programme aims to produce comprehensive memos that will guide policy reforms and institutional transformation across Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

Similarly, Dr. Garba Gandu, Senior Technical Adviser to the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), said the council’s deliberations would advance Nigeria’s digital economy by strengthening digital skills, upskilling workers, and adopting global best practices to remain competitive in the evolving technological landscape.

The session concluded with Engr. Gagare’s presentation of key memoranda focused on rural telecommunications expansion, enhanced data privacy, sustainable digital development, job creation, and mandatory digital training to align Nigeria’s digital economy with global standards.