Danbatta urges Nigerian businesses to adapt to disruptive technologies

*Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, Executive Vice-Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission assures that the telecoms regulator’s strategic management plan represents commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to transform industries and drive positive change in the country

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

Prof Umar Garba Danbatta, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has advised businesses to adjust to the potential of disruptive technologies.

Danbatta told the industry leaders and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) innovators, who gathered at the 2023 Edition of the Information, Communication, Technology and Telecommunications (ICTEL) expo, organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) in Lagos.

The EVC/CEO of NCC, represented at the event by Mr. Alkasim Umar, Director of Consumer Affairs Bureau (CAB) of the Commission, said the disruptive technologies had been adopted across the globe for enhanced productivity and sustainability.

According to him, advancements made in the global ICT industry have become business and enhancing.

Technology has always played a significant role in shaping the world people live in, stated Danbatta.

He, however, said that in recent years, advancements had accelerated at an unprecedented rate.

The NCC Chief also noted as the global world grapples with the 4th Industrial Revolution driven by the Internet, advancements in many facets of ICTs, are fundamentally changing all aspects of people’s lives and reshaping economic, social and cultural paradigms across the world.

He listed such disruptive technologies to include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain Technology, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Fifth Generation (5G), and other emerging technologies which have demonstrated the potential of transforming industries and business models.

Danbatta further said: “Today, we find ourselves amid a digital revolution, where the boundaries between physical and virtual worlds are blurring.  “So, as we navigate the era of tech disruptions, it is crucial for businesses to embrace innovation and adapt to the changing landscape.

“Companies that are agile and willing to experiment with these emerging technologies will gain a competitive advantage in their respective industries,” Danbatta said.

The Executive Vice-Chairman assured the stakeholders that the NCC’s strategic management plan represents the Commission’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to transform industries and drive positive change.

“By embracing tech disruption, we are empowering individuals, businesses, and communities to thrive in the digital age.

“Together, let us build a Nigeria where technology is a catalyst for inclusive growth, innovation flourishes, and the benefits of connectivity reach every Nigerian,” the EVC/CEO said.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, President of LCCI, appreciated the Commission’s efforts at providing a predictable telecom regulatory environment.

Olawale-Cole noted that the theme of this year’s edition of the ICTEL Expo had been carefully chosen, considering the far-reaching impact disruptive technologies are having on businesses around the world.

Laurel for Prof. Danbatta

Engr. Yomi Arowosafe, Lagos Zonal Controller of NCC, who was part of the team to the well-attended ICT Expo, received an LCCI Appreciation Award presented to Prof. Danbatta by the Vice President of LCCI, Leye Kupoluyi

The award is in recognition of Danbatta’s contribution to the success of the 2023 ICTEL Expo held July 25 – 26, 2023, at Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.