–Calls for robust support in leveraging technology, others
By Onyema Uwalaka, Lagos
The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has commended the Nigerian government for approving the 5th Generation Network, commonly referred to as 5G technology.
The director general, NACCIMA, Ambassador Ayoola Olukanni, who made the commendation in a statement, pointed out that the approval was, indeed, a reflection of commitment of the government to the growth and development of the telecommunication sector and digital economy in general, stressing that it should, however, be done in close collaboration with the private sector.
On the benefits of the 5G network, he said that it would play a crucial role in expanding business opportunities for young technology entrepreneurs who have demonstrated the capacity to leverage on technology to create innovative businesses and start-ups in the area of Fintech, Agrictech and Smart-Apps for farming Services, Creativity and Entertainment and other sectors of the economy.
“It is also worthy of note that the 5G network will not only contribute to the growth of the Nigerian economy but will help to boost education, activities in the health sector as well as assist our security outfits to combat, crime, banditry and kidnapping in different parts of the country,’ he said.
Olukanni also said that NACCIMA was delighted that the 5G policy, which is a component part of the 2020-2025 National Broadband Plan, was now coming on stream and appealed for full integration of the private sector in the implementation of the National Broadband Plan designed for expansion of the digital economy.
He disclosed that the current NACCIMA administration, led by its national president, Ide J. Udeagbala, had made harnessing of information and communication technology one of his priorities and was, therefore, ready to work with all stakeholders.
“This is to ensure that the new 5G policy and National Broadband Plan truly become a platform to scale up business opportunities; especially for young people, who see several opportunities in it and have decided to embrace tech entrepreneurship as a way out of unemployment,” he said.
The DG expressed optimism that, with the 5G policy, Nigeria has truly taken a major step forward to significantly improve its digital infrastructure, while urging the government to give the private sector a key role to play to fully harness the potentials.