New Strategic Plan to enhance diversification of Nigeria’s economy through digital technology deployment — NCC
By Eyo Nsima
The Nigerian Communication Commission, NCC, has disclosed that it’s new Strategic Management Plan aims at diversifying the economy through deployment of digital technology.
In his foreword to the Plan, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, FNSE, FRAES, FAEng, FIEEE, Executive Vice-Chairman/CEO, stated: “This new Strategic Management Plan 2020 – 2024, therefore, aims to consolidate and build on the achievements of the past two decades and more importantly supports the Federal Government of Nigeria’s policy thrust of diversifying the economy through deployment of digital technology.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria current administration’s strategic goal to develop and reposition the Nigerian economy away from the over-dependence on oil is anchored on the newly-designated Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy and the Commission, being an integral part of this Ministry, have key roles to play to achieve this strategic goal. Thus, the Strategic Management Plan (2020 – 2024) is designed to bring the benefits of the digitized economy to the citizens of Nigeria.
“The digital economy represents a wide range of economic activities that use digitized information and knowledge as key factors of production. The digitization of the economy creates benefits and efficiencies as digital technologies drive entrepreneurship, innovation and fuel job opportunities, and economic growth. Consequently, the Commission’s Strategic Management Plan (2020 – 2024) comprises of five pillars, viz: 1. Regulatory Excellence: The Commission aims to develop adaptive and sustainable regulation to ensure efficient regulatory service to all stakeholders. 2. Universal Broadband Access: Broadband Access is critical to the achievement of the Digital Economy Policy of the Government. The Commission aims at achieving pervasive and inclusive broadband access by providing incentives for broadband deployment in Nigeria. 3. Promote Development of Digital Economy: The Commission will provide the necessary regulations and initiatives for the achievement of the Digital Economy policy thrust of the Government.”
He added: “The Commission through its policies and directions will ensure a dynamic market that drives innovation necessary for economic growth. 5. Strategic Partnering: We aim at mutually sustainable collaboration with relevant stakeholders. The Board, Management, and Staff of the Commission are committed to the implementation of the SMP 2020 – 2024 to deliver on our responsibilities and functions as enshrined in the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.”
