Harnessing the opportunities of the 4th Industrial Revolution.

The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta has pointed out that Nigeria is not lacking in key policy and regulatory frameworks and instruments that will power the 4th Industrial Revolution.

He also emphasized that Nigeria can only harness the opportunities of the 4th Industrial Revolution as a nation if we put in place effective guiding frameworks, to address the various aspects of the digital ecosystem and ensure their effective interworking in the national interest.

The NCC Boss said this yesterday in a keynote address he delivered at the Virtual 3rd Discourse Series of the Advocate Law Practice with the theme: “Powering the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Nigeria”.

He said that the challenge is clear but must be approached with the strongest resolve, and with the full co-operation of all critical Stakeholders in order to ensure that “no one is left behind” in the evolving digital future.

Danbatta said: “In essence, Nigeria can only maximize the potentials of the 4th Industrial Revolution if we, articulate effective and forward-looking Policy Instruments to guide our emergence into the future digital landscape, ensure the ubiquitous presence, the seamless operation and the cost-effective availability of communications infrastructure which will power the digital aspirations of all sectors of the Nigerian economy and ensure that national competitiveness is guaranteed.”

He adds that it is imperative to deploy effective regulatory instruments and harness the efforts of all critical stakeholders so that we can derive the utmost benefits from the 4th Industrial revolution and not be reduced to digital laggards, spectators, or, merely a consumptive class.

He beckons on Nigerians to fully participate in the Fourth Industrial Revolution as drivers and innovators as the Commission is keenly aware of the critical need to harness the contributions of all critical Stakeholders across all industry platforms and professional groups and we hope that we can continue to count on the support of all stakeholders in this quest.

He disclosed that the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy Policy (2020-2030) which boasts of eight (8) pillars is designed to champion the 4thIndustrial Revolution.

The policy, according to him enables Nigeria to become a leading player in the global digital economy; provides a catalyst to facilitate the diversification of the economy; and accelerates the attainment of the key national objectives of improving security, reducing corruption and expanding the economy.