Nigeria Must Leverage Global Tech Opportunities, says Tijani

Samuel Mobolaji

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, has urged Nigeria’s technology ecosystem to seize international opportunities to accelerate growth and innovation.

Speaking at the Nigerian French Technology Roundtable in Lagos, he emphasised the importance of global partnerships in positioning Nigeria as a leader in the digital economy.

Tijani highlighted Nigeria’s upcoming participation in the 2025 Viva Technology (VivaTech) Conference in Paris as a crucial opportunity for the country’s tech startups to showcase their potential on a global stage. According to him, events like VivaTech provide a platform for Nigerian innovators to attract investment, build strategic partnerships, and enhance the country’s digital footprint.

He also underscored the need to leverage France’s expertise in areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and sustainability to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem. The minister revealed that plans are underway to establish a joint technology market between both nations, which will foster cross-border collaborations and drive innovation.

As part of efforts to enhance digital connectivity, Tijani announced the rollout of a 90-kilometre fibre-optic cable project aimed at improving Nigeria’s internet infrastructure. “This partnership represents a significant step forward in creating an environment where our tech startups can thrive, attract venture capital, and generate opportunities for economic growth,” he said.

The Consul General of France in Nigeria, Laurent Favier, reiterated France’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s tech industry, noting that technology is a vital driver of the country’s international influence. “Events like VivaTech are essential in fostering global partnerships and expanding Nigeria’s role in the digital economy,” Favier stated.

The roundtable, organised in collaboration with the French Embassy and telecoms giant Globacom, brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and representatives from VivaTech to discuss avenues for collaboration. Discussions focused on how Nigeria’s participation in VivaTech could stimulate foreign investment, promote technological advancements, and boost Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global digital landscape.

Nigeria’s tech sector has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, attracting interest from international investors and positioning the country as a key player in Africa’s digital transformation. The roundtable further reinforced the country’s commitment to deepening its global engagement and strengthening its innovation-driven economy.

VivaTech, an annual technology conference in Paris, serves as a global hub for startups, investors, and established tech firms to showcase cutting-edge innovations. With Nigeria’s participation, stakeholders are optimistic that the country will gain greater visibility, unlock new funding opportunities, and expand its influence in the global tech industry.

Globacom, the corporate sponsor of the roundtable, reaffirmed its dedication to advancing Nigeria’s digital economy. The company has consistently invested in initiatives aimed at fostering technological development and bridging the digital divide.

As Nigeria prepares for VivaTech 2025, industry stakeholders believe that strategic partnerships and enhanced digital infrastructure will be instrumental in driving long-term growth in the country’s technology ecosystem.