Nigeria has taken over the chairmanship of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), reinforcing its position as a key driver of Africa’s digital transformation following the conclusion of the organisation’s seventh Ordinary Conference of Plenipotentiaries held in Abuja.The two-day gathering brought together telecommunications and digital economy leaders from across the continent to chart the future of Africa’s connectivity agenda. Delegates adopted the 2026 Abuja Declaration on Meaningful Connectivity for Africa, elected new leadership, and approved strategic policies that will guide the union over the next four years.Speaking at the closing ceremony, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, stressed that the resolutions reached during the conference would only deliver lasting impact through continued cooperation among African nations.According to the minister, expanding digital infrastructure, strengthening digital skills, and presenting a united African voice in global digital governance remain essential to unlocking the continent’s digital economy.”Every discussion and every decision reflected our shared commitment to building a stronger digital future for Africa. Our collective success will depend on sustained collaboration to ensure every African benefits from digital opportunities,” Tijani said.He also commended member states, development partners, delegates, and the ATU Secretariat for fostering a spirit of collaboration throughout the conference, while reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote responsible innovation, digital inclusion, and stronger regional partnerships.A major outcome of the conference was the election of Kezias Kazuba Mwale of Zambia as the next Secretary-General of the ATU. Mwale emerged victorious after four rounds of voting, securing 21 of the 34 votes cast. He will begin his four-year tenure on January 1, 2027, succeeding the outgoing Secretary-General, John Omo.Delegates also endorsed the 2026 Abuja Declaration, which commits African countries to expanding broadband connectivity through technology-neutral policies, improving access to spectrum and fibre infrastructure, strengthening cybersecurity and consumer protection, and addressing challenges related to digital affordability, literacy, and inclusion. The declaration places particular emphasis on ensuring women, young people, persons with disabilities, and underserved communities are not left behind in Africa’s digital transformation.In addition, representatives elected 25 member states to serve on the ATU Administrative Council for the next four-year cycle.Outgoing Secretary-General John Omo described the conference as a significant milestone, noting that it has provided the organisation with a renewed mandate to accelerate its strategic objectives and deepen regional cooperation in the telecommunications sector.Nigeria’s assumption of the ATU chairmanship is expected to strengthen its influence in shaping Africa’s digital policies while supporting the continent’s ambition of achieving universal, affordable, and meaningful connectivity for all.
Show Comments (0)
Hide Comments (0)
