The Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has commissioned the Nigeria-Korea Information Access Centre (IAC) at the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) in Abuja.
The initiative, in partnership with South Korea, aims to bridge the digital divide, foster innovation in artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and emerging technologies, and position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital economy.
Speaking at the commissioning, Dr. Tijani emphasized that Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, must take the lead in leveraging digital technology for national development.
“And it has also been projected that for the future of work, Nigeria is going to be one of the destinations. So many people will look to Nigeria and this is why the President is extremely invested in anything that has to do with empowering young people. And we also recognize that one of the low hanging fruits for us is in ICT.”
He highlighted the government’s commitment to providing the necessary infrastructure to ensure that Nigeria becomes a global player in information technology.
He said, “Through this investment, not only are we able to accelerate the application of modern technologies like Artificial Intelligence, but it also gives us the chance to start to provide meaningful opportunities for our young people
DBI’s President and CEO, Mr. David Daser, described the centre as more than just a building but a bridge to opportunities for students, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
He noted that the project aligns with Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, both of which aim to drive digital literacy, job creation, and technological advancement.
“This Centre is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including AI development labs, digital training rooms, an e-resource library, and a mobile IAC. It is a hub where knowledge knows no borders, and innovation transcends limitations,” Daser said.
He explained that the project is also in line with the 3MTT initiative of the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.
“the Nigeria-Korea IAC is the culmination of a bold vision, a vision to bridge the digital divide, empower our citizens, and position Nigeria as a global leader in the digital economy,” he said.
The Ambassador, Republic of Korea to Nigeria, Mr Kim Pan kyu, in his goodwill message expressed optimism that the AIC will play a critical role in further transforming Nigeria’s digital potential into reality.
He reiterated that Korea is stands with Nigeria to support its digital transformation c the Korea International Cooperation Agency KOICA.
In his words, “to facilitate Nigeria’s transition to e-government, Korea has been implementing an ODA project worth 13 million dollars from 2020 to 2026.
“To enhance multimedia education for primary and secondary schools, Korea has invested 10 million dollars in an ODA from 2021 to this year”, the Ambassador disclosed.