Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, has announced plans for a strategic collaboration between the Federal Government and the United Nations University (UNU) aimed at strengthening research and innovation in digital transformation.
Speaking after a meeting with the Rector of UNU, Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala, on the sidelines of the ICEGOV 2025 conference, Dr. Tijani revealed that discussions centered on advancing research in key areas such as Digital Transformation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Digital Skills & Literacy.
According to the Minister, both parties agreed to work towards establishing a UNU Institute in Nigeria focused on Digital Public Infrastructure, as well as exploring the creation of two additional UNU research hubs—one dedicated to Artificial Intelligence, in collaboration with the UNU Institute on AI in Bologna, and another focusing on Digital Skills & Literacy.
Dr. Tijani expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating his hope that at least one of the proposed institutes will be launched before the end of his tenure.
“My prayer is for all three of these initiatives to be realised — but at the very least, for one to be launched before the end of my time in office. So help me God,” he said.
The partnership marks a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its digital ecosystem and position itself as a leader in technology-driven research and innovation across Africa.
