Government woos states, OPS to activate ICT innovation, entrepreneurship parks

*The economic challenges facing Nigeria provide opportunities for consumers to embrace digital platforms for self-empowerment as digital innovation and entrepreneurship are globally recognised as two prerequisites for achieving an indigenous digital economy: Dr. Isa Ali Pantami, Minister for Communications and Digital Economy

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

In an attempt to further diversify the Nigerian economy, generate employment opportunities and create wealth for the citizenry, the Federal Government has enjoined the 36 states and the Organised Private Sector (OPS) to support the establishment of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) innovation and entrepreneurship parks in the country.

Dr. Isa Ali Pantami, Honourable Minister for Communications and Digital Economy, stated this at the groundbreaking ceremony of the National Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre, Thursday, February 4, in Abuja, FCT.

The Minister noted this is essential in order to complement the present administration’s resolve to diversify national economy, create employment and wealth for the country.

Dr. Pantami (centre) and other top officials at the foundation laying ceremony of the edifice in Abuja, FCT

Pantami said: “I invite state governments, the Organised Private Sector, foreign multinational companies and high networth individuals to follow this example of the Federal Government and develop ICT innovation and entrepreneurship parks according to minimum standards NITDA will set, popularise and promote.”

The economic challenges facing Nigeria provide opportunities for the people to embrace digital platforms for self-empowerment.

The Minister stated: “Mr President approved the building of this Centre on November 11 2020, during the Federal Executive Council meeting.

“Prior to that, I made a detailed presentation to Council on the project and successfully answered around 22 questions in the robust debate that followed the presentation.

“The idea received overwhelming support of the Federal Executive Council because of the huge positive impact it can have on the lives of Nigerians.”

According to Pantami, digital innovation and entrepreneurship are globally recognised as two prerequisites for achieving an indigenous Digital Economy.

He noted: “As such, a successful digital innovation and entrepreneurship programme will support us in the development of our digital economy and this is exactly want this Centre aims to achieve.”