Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, has held discussions with the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, focusing on the intersection of global trade, emerging technologies, and artificial intelligence.
The meeting took place in Geneva on the sidelines of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council session, where both parties examined how digital transformation is reshaping international commerce and productivity.
According to Tijani, the discussions centered on the need to ensure that developing economies are adequately positioned to benefit from emerging opportunities in the global digital economy, particularly as AI and advanced technologies increasingly influence trade systems and economic competitiveness.
He noted that Nigeria remains committed to actively participating in shaping the future of the digital economy through investments in innovation, digital infrastructure, and talent development. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening international collaboration to ensure shared prosperity and inclusive growth.
The engagement reflects broader efforts by policymakers and global institutions to align trade frameworks with rapid technological change, while addressing disparities in access to digital capabilities across regions.
Both leaders underscored the importance of preparing developing economies not only to adapt to technological disruption but also to play a role in defining the direction of future global digital systems.