Leading policymakers and technology experts have declared that the strategic application of digital technology and engineering tools is essential to reworking Nigeria’s future, ending persistent development challenges, and driving economic inclusion.
The consensus emerged at the recent 2025 IEEE Connecting the Unconnected (CTU) EMEA Summit hosted at Baze University, Abuja, which gathered global tech leaders under the theme “Bridging Digital Frontiers.”
Yilwatda Showcases Data-Driven Governance and Social Protection
In a data-rich keynote address, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, detailed how the Federal Government is leveraging technology to strengthen social protection and combat corruption.
He highlighted the critical role of digital infrastructure, from the National Social Register covering over 70 million individuals to the integration of NIN and BVN data to reduce fraud. “Engineering, data science, and digital governance are central to building a nation where no citizen is invisible,” Yilwatda stated.
He showcased how, within nine months as minister, predictive analytics and AI were used to firm up the identities of Nigeria’s most vulnerable, enable digital cash transfers to eliminate leakages, and forecast natural disasters. “Technology is cheaper than sorrow and infinitely more humane when it arrives before tragedy,” he asserted.
Urgent Call to Move from Ideas to Action
Officially opening the summit, Professor (Mrs.) Ifeyinwa Eucharia Achumba, Chair of the IEEE Nigeria Section, emphasized the urgent need to bridge connectivity disparities. “This summit is a call to move from ideas to action. Let us work together to build a digital future where no community is left behind,” she declared.
The summit featured goodwill messages from key bodies including the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF).
Warning: Connectivity Must Be Paired with Cybersecurity
In a compelling address, Mr. Rex Mafiana, MD/CEO of FPG Tech & Solutions, warned of the dangers of expanding connectivity without parallel security measures. “Connectivity without cybersecurity turns access into exposure. Without trust, inclusion cannot exist,” he stated, urging the adoption of Security by Design and Zero Trust principles to protect new users.
Summit Tracks and Leadership Honours
The summit featured eight strategic tracks focusing on universal connectivity infrastructure, rural broadband innovations, sustainable financing, and digital policy frameworks.
The event also honored several dignitaries for their contributions to digital innovation. Alongside Professor Yilwatda, Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, was recognized with awards from both the IEEE and the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) for his leadership in digital governance and broadband expansion.
Blueprinting the Connected Future in Panel Sessions
Key panel discussions included:
· Plenary 1: Innovative Infrastructure Solutions for Universal Connectivity, led by Jane Egerton-Idehen of NIGCOMSAT, exploring satellite technology and community networks.
· Plenary 2: Policy, Regulation, and Financing for Connectivity, chaired by Dr. Femi Adeluyi of NITDA, which dissected the regulatory reforms needed to ensure affordable access for all.
The summit concluded with a unified call for actionable collaboration to bridge the region’s persistent digital divides and harness technology for inclusive national development.
