The Federal Government has approved a 50% tariff hike for telecommunication services to sustain the industry, according to Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
Tijani revealed this at the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN) Summit in Ibadan on Saturday, January 25, 2025, themed “The Rain of Transformation is Upon Us: CEOs Arise.”
The minister explained that the tariff increase is essential for telecommunication companies to invest in new infrastructure and improve connectivity across the nation.
He urged Nigerian youths to leverage the government’s investment in infrastructure to drive technological progress.
“The biggest challenge for governments is individuals,” Tijani stated.
“While we invest in infrastructure, we need innovators and entrepreneurs to build the technologies that will drive progress.”
Tijani praised Dr. Olusola Ayoola, founder of RAIN, for his contributions to Nigeria’s technological development.
“Without individuals like Ayoola, it would be difficult for Nigeria to make strides in ICT,” he said.
He emphasized that robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a transformative role in Nigeria’s future, driving productivity and prosperity.
Tijani highlighted the importance of supporting initiatives like RAIN, which fosters innovation and the practical application of AI in Nigeria.
Other speakers at the event underscored the significance of technological development:
Chief Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Road Maintenance Agency, emphasized technology’s potential to reduce unemployment among Nigerian youths.
Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, former CEO of First Bank of Nigeria, lauded robotics and AI for revolutionizing business operations, reducing costs, and enhancing decision-making.
Bayo Akande, Senior Special Assistant to the Oyo State Governor on ICT, highlighted the state’s efforts to develop a robotics and AI hub for education and innovation.
Dr. Olusola Ayoola, the convener of the summit, noted that RAIN has established a network across 50 institutions in Nigeria to promote technology development.
He called on the government and stakeholders to prioritize policies that support the easy learning of robotics and AI for Nigerian youths.
The event concluded with awards of excellence presented to Minister Tijani and Justice Ruqayat Ayoola, the mother of RAIN’s CEO.
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