By Jessica Dogo
Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, has emerged as Chairman of the 2026 Council of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
Tijani made this known in a statement by his Special Assistant, Isime Esene on Thursday in Abuja, and pledged an inclusive global digital agenda.
He said that the announcement was made at the Council’s inaugural plenary session held on April 28 in Geneva, Switzerland, where representatives of member states convened to set the union’s strategic direction.
He said that the ITU Council served as the organisation’s governing body between plenipotentiary conferences, overseeing policy direction, financial management and implementation of programmes aimed at promoting global connectivity, digital inclusion and emerging technology governance.
The minister said that in his new role, he was expected to steer deliberations on key priorities, including harnessing emerging technologies, strengthening stakeholder engagement, advancing sustainable funding models and driving institutional reforms within the Union.
“This year’s Council comes at a critical moment as the global digital landscape is rapidly evolving, shaped by advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI), next-generation networks, and the growing importance of resilient digital infrastructure.
“The council will also play a pivotal role in shaping discussions ahead of the upcoming Plenipotentiary Conference later in the year,” he said.
The Minister said his appointment was a profound honour and pledged to serve with fairness, balance and respect for the sovereignty of member states.
“This legacy is a product of sustained collaboration and it is the foundation upon which we must now build.
“We also recognise the entire secretariat for advancing the transformation agenda from design to implementation with professionalism, commitment, and focus.
“I look forward to working closely with colleagues to build consensus and deliver outcomes that reflect our shared ambitions,” he said.
Also speaking, ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, commended the union’s progress, adding that its internal transformation had strengthened resilience for institutions, networks and communities globally.
She expressed optimism about continued collaboration to build a meaningfully connected and sustainable digital world for everyone.
“The case for what comes next is built on what this union together has already shown it can do.
“I look forward to continuing that work together as we build a meaningfully connected, sustainable digital world for everyone everywhere.
“The appointment is seen as a reflection of Nigeria’s growing influence in global digital policy and aligns with the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to expand the country’s digital economy,” she said.
Analysts say the development is expected to boost Nigeria’s role in shaping global digital cooperation, while attracting investment and supporting innovation-driven growth. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Josephine Obute/Kadiri Abdulrahman
