Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has been appointed Vice Chair of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for 2025.
This achievement marks Nigeria’s return to a leadership position within the Council after nearly five decades.
The appointment, which follows the backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, comes at a pivotal moment for international digital governance, as nations work collectively to bridge the global digital divide.
On Tuesday, Dr. Tijani announced the development, describing his selection as a “profound honour” and expressing appreciation to the ITU leadership and member states for the trust placed in him.
“I look forward to working closely with the Council Chair, Ms. Cristiana Flutur, and fellow Council members to advance our shared mission of inclusive digital development,” he said.
The ITU Council serves as the governing body of the United Nations’ specialised agency for information and communication technologies. Dr. Tijani’s appointment positions Nigeria to play a strategic role in shaping global initiatives on connectivity, cybersecurity, and digital accessibility.
The Minister emphasised that this international responsibility aligns with Nigeria’s domestic digital agenda, particularly those outlined in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Nigeria’s commitment includes expanding connectivity to underserved regions and building digital capabilities among its youth, balancing national development with international collaboration.
“Through this new responsibility, I will champion global collaboration around resilient infrastructure, meaningful access, digital literacy, cybersecurity, and trusted digital public infrastructure—building on the progress we’re already making,” he added.
Dr. Tijani also noted that Nigeria’s digital development goals align with the ITU’s mission to create a secure and sustainable digital ecosystem that benefits all, regardless of location or economic status.
The ITU Council, comprising 48 member nations, is responsible for setting strategic direction and supervising the organisation’s operations between plenipotentiary conferences.
In his new role as Vice Chair, Dr. Tijani will contribute to shaping international dialogue on digital infrastructure development, accessibility, and equity.
Commenting on the Council’s mission, ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin stressed that “the 2.6 billion unconnected and millions more being left behind are counting on the Council to bring a better ‘Digital Future for All.’”
She added that ITU Council Members are at the forefront of digital diplomacy.
While highlighting that the ITU has empowered global innovation for 160 years, Bogdan-Martin noted that the 2025 Council will build momentum for inclusive, trusted, and transformative technology solutions.
