Contextualizing the Network Readiness Index (NRI) for the Nigerian
Telecommunications Industry
Welcome address by
Executive Vice Chairman – NCC
Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta
24 th August 2023
Emerging Technology Forum: “Contextualizing the Network Readiness Index for the
Nigerian”
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PROTOCOLS
In recent years, the Nigerian telecommunications industry has embarked on a
remarkable growth trajectory, solidifying its position as an engine of economic
growth. The enhancement of digital access and the expansion of our networks have
left an indelible impact on the lives of our citizens. While we celebrate these
accomplishments, we are keenly aware that our dynamic society requires even higher
connectivity, reliability, and accessibility standards. The surge in data utilisation, the
proliferation of the Internet of Things (IoT), the advent of artificial intelligence, and
the emergence of cutting-edge technologies highlight the urgent need for ongoing
network surveillance and expansion.
To navigate this era of transformation, we must embrace innovation, make strategic
investments, and cultivate a growth-friendly ecosystem.
This platform is our gateway to innovative and disruptive solutions that can positively
transform our industry. By engaging in conversations about new technologies,
collaborating with global best practices and subject-matter experts, and pooling our
insights, we open the door to unimaginable future possibilities. Let us grasp this
opportunity to investigate emerging technologies, envisage their potential applications,
and determine how they can be leveraged to solve our specific challenges.
Let me get down to the substance of the forum by stating the problem at hand:
The global data collected by the NRI team reveals that digital transformation is a glob
al imperative in order to maximize the social and economic effects of the digital era. It
can create new inequalities which can hinder the ability of younger generations to eng
age in the digital economy, but also remains a powerful way to do more with less at all
levels of income. Formal education is evolving, and metrics are important to support
informed policymaking. This requires reskilling and upskilling opportunities to be avai
Emerging Technology Forum: “Contextualizing the Network Readiness Index for the
Nigerian”
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lable, accessible, and affordable in order to have more inclusive and sustainable econo
mies and societies.
Nigeria is a telecommunications powerhouse, with 82% of the continent’s telecom
subscribers and 29% of the continent’s internet consumption. Our nation rates
eleventh globally in terms of internet penetration and seventh in terms of mobile
phone usage. Despite these remarkable metrics, the fact that our Network Readiness
Index (NRI) ranking for 2022 is 109th out of 131 countries is both humbling and
challenging?
The NRI is a guiding metric that measures the role and impact of Information and
Communication Technology (ICT). It explores the performances of 131 economies in
four key categories: technology (infrastructure), governance, people, and impact. As
agents of social and economic transformation in our nation, prioritizing network
readiness is not only a strategic necessity but a mandate.
Throughout our deliberations, we will engage in thought-provoking forum discussions
that explore the foundational pillars of NRI, through a number of presentations by
renowned professionals in the technology landscape.
As we convene here today, the innovation symphony resonates with our common
goals. The Emerging Technology Forum acts as a beacon, directing us towards the
intersection of transformation and advancement. This forum is where we bridge the
divide between aspiration and achievement. Through spirited dialogues, collaborative
exchanges, and the exploration of emerging technologies, we move closer to our
vision of a fully interconnected, telecommunications-driven Nigeria.
In conclusion, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to each of you for your
unwavering commitment, your unrelenting pursuit of progress, and your unwavering
faith in the potential of our industry. Let us travel together, propelled by innovation,
Emerging Technology Forum: “Contextualizing the Network Readiness Index for the
Nigerian”
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strengthened by collaboration, and united by the promise of a more prosperous digital
future for Nigeria.
Thank you
Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta. FAEng, FNSE, FIEEE, FRAES.
Executive Vice Chairman
Nigerian Communications Commission
