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NCC names Emiko as interim DBI board chairman
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has appointed Princess Oforitsenere Emiko as Interim Chairman of the governing board of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), a strategic move aimed at repositioning the two-decade-old training institution for the next era of Nigeria’s communications sector and digital economy.
The appointment, announced by the NCC on Monday, anchors the Commission’s plan to transform DBI from a telecommunications-focused training centre into a broader digital economy powerhouse. Princess Emiko brings her experience to bear as the Institute navigates what the NCC describes as a critical repositioning phase.
She will be joined on the interim board by Engr. Abraham Oshadami, Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, and Ms. Rimini Makama, Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management at NCC. The interim leadership will work alongside the President/CEO, Mr. David Daser, and the remaining board members whose tenures are unexpired, to drive the Institute’s transformation.
DBI: A two-decade evolution
Established by the NCC in May 2004, DBI was originally created as a specialised centre for training in telecommunications and information technology. However, in the two decades since, the sector has evolved from telecommunications into a broad, fast-moving digital economy, one where technology now advances quickly enough to demand continuous specialised training, and where communications infrastructure has become a matter of national sovereignty and oversight.
Securing and advancing the future of communications and the digital economy, the NCC noted, is now a clear national and economic priority.
“That future also rests on Nigeria’s young population. With 70% of Nigerians under the age of 30, the DBI transformation is designed to empower young people, equip them with advanced technical skills, and close the capability gap that currently slows the pace of technology adoption across the communications sector and the wider digital economy,” Nnenna Ukoha, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, said in the statement.
DBI: Five strategic pillars
The repositioned Institute will concentrate on five core areas:
- Education and Training: Delivering specialised, up-to-date curricula for telecommunications and digital economy skills.
- Research and Development: Driving innovation and technological self-reliance.
- Innovation: Fostering new ideas, startups, and practical solutions.
- Economic Impact and Growth: Aligning training outcomes with national economic goals.
- Emerging Policy and Regulation: Informing and responding to the rapidly changing regulatory landscape.
Significantly, the repositioning strategy has been shaped through engagements that extend beyond the NCC and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. The NCC confirmed that consultations have also involved the Federal Ministry of Education and TETFund, the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).
This multi-ministerial approach suggests a whole-of-government recognition that digital skills development is no longer the sole concern of the communications ministry but a cross-cutting national priority.
The NCC has not announced a timeline for the completion of the interim board’s tenure or the appointment of a permanent board.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Muftwang has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the dualisation of the road linking Plateau to Taraba.
Mr Mutfwang commended the president in a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to governor, Dr Gyang Bere, on Sunday in Jos.
Mr Tinubu recently approved the dualisation of the road linking Mararaban Jama’a–Pankshin–Langtang–Shendam in Plateau to river Ibi in Taraba.
Mr Mutfwang described the landmark project as a historic intervention aimed at unlocking the economic potential of Plateau State.
He added that the project would strengthen regional integration and improve the quality of life of Plateau people and Nigerians in general.
Mr Mutfwang further said that the project clearly demonstrates Mr Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive national development and determination to bridge infrastructure gaps across the country.
He argued that the project would ensure smooth movement of goods and services, reduce transportation costs and boost agricultural production.
“It will also boost commerce, attract investments, promote tourism and enhance social and economic interactions across the region. This is not just about the construction of a road; it is about restoring hope, expanding economic opportunities, creating jobs and opening up rural communities.
“It will accelerate the development of the North-Central and North-East corridors. It is a project that will positively impact generations to come,” Bere quoted Mutfwang as saying.
The governor equally commended the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who also lobbied for the project.
Mr Mutfwang particularly thanked Mr Yilwatda for his strategic engagement and commitment to the development of Plateau State at all times.
He also praised the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for his dedication, professionalism and determination in driving the Renewed Hope infrastructure agenda across the country.
The governor called on the residents of Plateau Stare to support the transformative agenda of the president, aimed at ensuring a better Nigeria for all.
(NAN)
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