Abuja: The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is set to host its maiden Digital Economy Awareness Forum on November 13, aiming to deepen public understanding of digital transformation and its role in national development.
The Head of Public Affairs at the NCC, Nnenna Ukoha, made this known in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.
According to Ukoha, the programme has the theme “Leaving No One Behind: Digital Assets, Equity, and Empowerment”.
She stated that the forum would create a conducive environment to build infrastructure for innovation and inclusion. She laid a solid foundation for bridging the gaps between policy and infrastructure in national development.
She said that the programme would bring together industry experts, policymakers, and community stakeholders to brainstorm on practical solutions for bridging the digital divide.
“It will also deliberate on how it can be harnessed to empower underserved communities, drive equity and promote national development,” she said.
Ukoha said that sessions at the inaugural forum would focus on designing inclusive digital policies, promoting the deployment of accessible infrastructure, developing adaptive digital literacy programs, and advocating for affordability and accessibility in digital services.
Africa has the world’s youngest population, with 60 per cent of its population under the age of 25.
“With Nigeria’s significant contribution to that figure, the NCC recognises this for the asset that it is and is dedicated to leveraging the untapped potential of this demography while including the rest of the populace.
“In addition to NCC’s commitment to ensuring the safety of over 140 million Internet users, this sensitisation is designed to highlight the importance of inclusive participation in Nigeria’s digital economy,” she said.
She said that the Digital Awareness and Sensitisation Forum is a collaborative effort of the industry and stakeholders.
She listed the stakeholders to include the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), the National Orientation Agency (NOA), and the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS).
“There is also the Association of Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ATCON) FintechNGR, Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), Terra Industries, Association of Nigerian Inventors (ANI), Secondary Education Board (SEB), Nigerian University Commission (NUC),
“Others are the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONWAD), Imose Technologies and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE),” she said.
Ukoha said that the event would feature panel discussions, exhibitions by innovators, fintech organisations and students.
She said that it would create the environment to showcase innovations that reflect the creativity and potential of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
“The event will be livestreamed via a dedicated portal at scf.ncc.gov.ng, ensuring nationwide access and participation,” she said.