Nigeria Showcases Digital Social Investments at APRA 2024
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
ABUJA, NIGERIA May 26, 2024 -
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) showcased various digital social investments in Nigeria at the 35th annual conference of the African Public Relations Association (APRA) in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, Head of Media Management Relations at NCC, presented the initiatives, which include 36 projects aimed at promoting infrastructure expansion, supporting SMEs, empowering educational institutions, advancing innovation, and promoting digital up-skilling of Nigerian youths.
The projects include the Advanced Digital Awareness Programme for Tertiary Institutions (ADAPTI), Campus Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIEP) programme, e-PAD project, Digital Appreciation Project (DAP), Digital Literacy Training for Teachers (DLT), Digital Integration Programme (DIP) for MSMEs, and the E-Accessibility programme for persons with disabilities.
According to Ibietan, the NCC has undertaken several digital infrastructure projects, programmes, and collaborative activities with stakeholders through its component special purpose vehicle, the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF).
He emphasized that digital inclusion is crucial for economies that aspire to grow and develop, as it promotes social and economic opportunities, enhances civic engagement and participation, supports education and lifelong learning, fosters digital literacy and skills development, encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, and helps to bridge the digital divide and reduce inequalities.
Ibietan's presentation was the only one showcasing digital infrastructure investments by any African country at the APRA Conference, which focused on "One Africa, One Voice: Bridging Africa's Communication Divide".
He recommended constant and seamless communication among stakeholders to ensure efficiency in the management and proper harvest of derivable benefits from social investment and infrastructural projects.
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