The Federal Government has called on African countries to strengthen regional collaboration to close the continent’s telecommunications gap, disclosing that nearly one billion Africans still lack access to mobile internet.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, Nadungu Gagare, made the call on Thursday in Abuja during the 7th Special Session of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) Administrative Council. He was represented by the Director in his office, Ahmed Alsukun.
Gagare said regional cooperation remained critical to building an inclusive and innovative digital economy capable of empowering Africa’s rapidly growing youth population.
According to him, stronger partnerships among African nations would help expand internet connectivity, improve digital infrastructure, promote digital skills, strengthen cybersecurity, safeguard data, and create more economic opportunities for citizens.
He added that a united Africa would have greater influence in global decision-making and be better positioned to protect the continent’s interests in the digital space.
Speaking at the event, Chairperson of the ATU Administrative Council and Director-General of South Africa’s communications department, Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani, urged member states to adopt Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a key driver of regional integration and economic resilience.
She explained that digital identity and electronic payment systems would enable secure cross-border interactions and support Africa’s digital transformation. Jordan-Dyani also commended Nigeria for its leadership in implementing digital public systems, urging developing countries to design public services that deliver greater value to citizens.
Earlier, the Secretary-General of the African Telecommunications Union, John Omo, described the special session as a vital step in preparations for the union’s forthcoming conference.
He stressed the need for legally sound and credible proposals, noting that the progress achieved so far was the result of collective efforts by member states.
The meeting brought together telecommunications regulators, policymakers and government officials from across Africa to review the ATU’s activities, consider institutional reforms and develop common strategies aimed at advancing the continent’s digital future before their formal adoption.