The latest endorsements come from three prominent leaders: Engr. Dr. Bisoye Coker Odusote, director general of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC); Dr. Olushola Odusanya, director general of the National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM); and Professor Ibrahim Adepoju Adeyanju, Managing Director of Galaxy Backbone.

These endorsements, secured during a recent audience with the leaders in Abuja, highlight the book’s growing acceptance and relevance within the industry.

These industry leaders are unanimous in their praise for “The Nigeria Digital Heroes,” describing it as a vital chronicle of Nigeria’s ICT evolution from post-independence to the present day. The book meticulously documents the industry’s development, tracing its path from the era of P&T through NITEL, the dot-com boom, and into the current digital age.

The three ICT giants highly recommend the book for all Nigerians, emphasizing its importance for educational institutions, research organizations, and the general public.

They believe it will help readers understand the pivotal policies, individuals, organizations, and innovations that have transformed the industry into what it is today.

Dr. Agabi, a prominent Nigerian ICT pioneer and broadcast journalist, explained that “The Nigeria Digital Heroes” is the first book in Nigeria to offer such a detailed historical account of the nation’s ICT journey.

The publication highlights the efforts of Nigeria’s first governor to introduce computers into governance and recognizes notable Nigerians, innovators, and policymakers who have significantly shaped the industry since 1999.

Published in 2025, the book reflects Dr. Agabi’s profound understanding and involvement in Nigeria’s digital transformation, covering policy, culture, and technological innovation.

His extensive fellowships and memberships, including NCS, FIIM, FIMC, NIPR, and IDPM, underscore his deep expertise. Dr. Agabi is also the organizer of significant events such as the DigiVation Future Summit, Nigeria Digital Innovation Conference, and Cyber Nigeria Forum, and frequently moderates and speaks at key discussions on building trust in the digital space.

The endorsements from these key government officials and industry leaders are expected to bring significant attention to “The Nigeria Digital Heroes” and its valuable insights into Nigeria’s dynamic digital landscape.

More about Dr. Bayero Agabi

Dr. Bayero Agabi boasts a distinguished career spanning over 25 years in the ICT sector, marked by numerous achievements and contributions:

• He launched AIT Infotech Network, a leading African TV program dedicated to information technology, earning him recognition as Nigeria’s top ICT broadcaster.
• Dr. Agabi is the only African to have twice received the UNECA/AISI ICT4D Award for excellence in ICT reporting.
• Commonwealth University conferred an honorary doctorate upon him in recognition of his outstanding service to ICT in Africa.
• In 2022, he was honored as the Digital Influencer of the Year by Hi-Tech Centre Abuja for his significant contributions to digital literacy.
• He is widely recognized by Young Innovators of Nigeria for his influence in shaping ICT policy.
• Dr. Agabi serves on critical national bodies, including the Presidential Committee on Data Harmonization, the National Broadband Council, and the Senate Cybersecurity Advisory Group. He is also the Vice-President of the Nigeria Internet Group (NIG) and President of the Centre for Cyber Awareness and Development (CECAD), where he is a vocal advocate for cyber sanity and responsible digital use.

Under the theme ‘Future-Forward – Harnessing the Power of Youth, Innovation, and Technology for National Economic Growth’, key discussions revolved around fostering a robust digital economy, enhancing digital citizenship, and ensuring inclusive growth across all sectors.

The LFC 2025 kicked off with a strong message from Dr. Bayero Agabi, president of DigiVation Network, who underscored the conference’s theme as perfectly encapsulating “the spirit of innovation, progress, and collective endeavours that define Nigerians.”

Dr. Agabi also issued a cautionary note on digital citizenship, stating that “Online Cyber Responsibility is a must to protect intellectual property rights among other concerns.

He stressed that upholding national values, respecting cultural norms, and protecting national security are integral to responsible online behaviour.

Malam Kashifu Inuwa, director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), delivered a powerful keynote address, asserting that Nigeria’s true wealth lies not in natural resources, but in its human capital, particularly within “classrooms, co-working spaces, and innovation hubs.

Speaking at the LFC 2025 through Dr. Aristotle Onumo, director of Stakeholder Management & Partnerships, the DG emphasized that the future belongs to nations with tech-ready youth.

He cited the remarkable achievement of Nigerian startups, which attracted over $1.2 billion in venture capital funding in 2024, showcasing the “audacity to dream, to build, to reimagime” prevalent among young Nigerians.

The importance of a robust national identity system as a catalyst for growth was highlighted by Engineer Abisoye Coker-Odusote, DG/CEO of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

Represented by Prince Ajibade Ayeni Omobalufon, she stated that identity is the key to opening doors, breaking barriers, and creating pathways to future growth and development.

The NIMC’s partnership with the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and the creation of job opportunities through the NIMC Entrepreneurship System were cited as tangible examples of how digital identity is empowering youth.

Further solidifying the government’s commitment to digital transformation, Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju, managing director/CEO of Galaxy Backbone, shared an ambitious vision for Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

Speaking through Victor Imonieroh, he announced the expansion of their high-speed fiber optic network to over 5,000 kilometers and a groundbreaking partnership with NIGCOMSAT to extend connectivity to all 774 local government areas. “Our vision is clear,” he concluded. “A Nigeria where the youth are empowered by innovation, where technology is the bedrock of inclusive economic development, and where collaboration drives progress.”

Dr. Muhammad Sirajo Aliyu, president of the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), represented by Dr. Charles Onyeukwu, deputy national president, advocated strongly for greater empowerment of young people to counteract the “japa syndrome” – the increasing emigration of skilled professionals.

He urged for collective efforts to provide “meaningful avenues for the young people to express their dreams” within Nigeria.

Addressing critical issues of digital access and economic viability, Dr. Yele Okeremi, founder of Precise Financial Systems (PFS), represented by Mr. Babajide Alaka, stressed the need for “equitable access” to technology.

He pointed out the stark disparity in internet access, largely concentrated in major urban centers, and called for “deliberate investment in rural connectivity, community-based tech hubs, digital literacy programs in local languages, and inclusive policies that close the urban-rural gap.”

Dr. Tola Yusuf, co-founder of Infratel Africa, amplified the call for connecting underserved areas, highlighting that approximately “23 million people are still unconnected in Nigeria.”

He argued that intentional policies are needed to make investments in rural connectivity viable for telecom operators, emphasizing its crucial role in retaining young talent and fostering local entrepreneurship.

The conference also featured a significant announcement from the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner, represented by Ibukunoluwa Owa, at the LFC 2025 unveiled a series of youth-focused initiatives, including a localized National Data Protection Certification Programme that has already trained nearly 500 Nigerians.

“Data protection is not just about security—it’s about empowerment,” Owa stated, highlighting the massive employment opportunities for certified Data Protection Officers. The NDPC also launched Data Privacy Clubs in Universities, Secondary School Outreach programs, and a Virtual Privacy Academy, underscoring its commitment to creating a “safe, respectful, and secure” digital environment for young Nigerians.

Adding to the diverse perspectives, Dr. Olushola Odusanya, director general of the National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM), represented by Mrs. Iret Oyefuga, deputy director at NACETEM affirmed the management’s commitment to “promoting research, technology, and innovation in Nigeria for sustainable development.”

He expressed optimism that collective efforts would drive economic growth and improve lives.

Finally, Arco Worldwide Services Limited, represented by David Ofoluwa, senior business development executive, made a compelling case for investing in drone innovation and youth empowerment, positioning Nigeria at the forefront of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

The Lagos Future Conference (LFC) 2025 served as a vital platform for robust discussions, highlighting both the immense potential and the critical challenges facing Nigeria’s digital future.

The consensus among stakeholders was clear: a collaborative, responsible, and inclusive approach is paramount to translating the nation’s technological aspirations into tangible economic growth and a brighter future for all its citizens.

To say that it is expected that such an enterprising professional with background in innovations and sciences from his youth, will be an understatement.

Coming on the heels of the last Minister for Science and Technology, Chief Ogbonnaya Onu (before the addendum of Innovations), this unique ministry became important from the onset of this democratic dispensation in 1999. From then till date, 8 different minsters of varying backgrounds have overseen this ministry with varying degrees of success and performance. Without going into specifics, most of the activities of the previous occupants of that seat, could be easily measured from the state of the Agencies within the ministry over the years.

According to official description, the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology is a Nigerian ministry whose mission is to facilitate the development and deployment of science and technology apparatus to enhance the pace of socio-economic development of the country through appropriate technological inputs into productive activities in the nation.

It is headed by a Minister appointed by the President, assisted by a Permanent Secretary, who is a career civil servant.

It is on record that President Bola Tinubu, on 16 August 2023 appointed Chief Uche Nnaji as the Minister, while Dr. (Mrs) Amina Muhammed Bello Shamaki is the current permanent secretary in the ministry. By so doing, the responsibility of using his skills and understanding to create a viable science and technology sector through innovation and research, squarely rests on the shoulders of the High Chief of Nkanu land in Enugu state.

This is a no mean feat as the Ministry boasts of the third highest with number of parastatal/ agencies (18) after Economy ministry (30) and FCT (21).

For the Uche Nnaji -led ministry to make a lasting impact that’ll be felt even after office and demonstrate his capacity as well as justify the confidence of the President in his choice as minister, each and every agency under his ministry must feel his presence.

To achieve this, Chief Uche Nnaji might want to look at the following:

1. National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI)

Officially, TIP is an integrated government support programme to government establishments such as academic institutions, research centres and private sector, either individually or in partnership with the intention of creating and nurturing of budding value-added and technology-based enterprise.

There is need to independent research assessment to thoroughly ascertain the weaknesses of the Agency and proffer solutions.

2. Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN)

ECN has statutory mandate for the strategic planning and co-ordination of national policies in the field of Energy in all its ramifications. The new minister must focus on the efforts of ECN regarding the comatose.

The Minister must engage the private sector to ensure actual implementation of the Energy Policy of the country.

3. Nigerian institute of science laboratory technology (NISLT)

NISLT has the mandate to ensure effective and efficient management and administration of laboratories in all the tertiary and Research Institutions in the country. A detailed assessment of this institute, to ascertain its level of effectiveness on its mandate especially across institutions offering the course of study, is mandatory.

4. National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA)

This agency was established to implement the policy that is aimed at conducting research, promotion, coordination and development of biotechnology for Nigeria.

With the commercialization of genetically modified (GM) crops in Nigeria, the new minister needs to commission an impact assessment of GM crops in the country.

5. National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM) – This agency is vested with the mandate of training and developing middle-to-high level manpower and conducting policy research in the areas of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) management for all tiers of government and the private sector. It is lacking in ensuring the planning, development, use and diffusion of technology as well as its application to the industry and its impacts on the social, economic, cultural, political and geographical environment of Nigeria.

6. National Research Institute for Chemical Technology (NARICT)

This agency was created to provide globally competitive and environmentally friendly technologies in industrial, agro-chemicals, solid minerals, bio-chemicals, man-made fibers, effluent monitoring and control, petrochemicals, engineering plastics and allied chemicals for the technological and economic advancement of Nigeria.

The minister might want to find out why the Agency is lacking in capacity in renewable energy research, catalysis, and treatment of industrial effluent waste.

7. Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO)

Though set up to to carry out research and development activities in the field of technology and the operation of a nuclear research facility, Nigeria is nowhere near the fulfillment of this mandate.

8. Project Development Institute (PRODA)

Provider Digital Access Enugu was set up to facilitate the Nation’s drive towards technological self-reliance, by producing the capital goods and process technologies needed by SMEs to produce local raw materials in producing consumer goods.

A concept that started out on a great note has died over the years. The new minister needs to commission independent asset assessment review for the PRODA facilities.

9. Federal Institute of Food & Industrial Research (FIIRO)

With a mandate of accelerating industrialization in Nigeria FIIRO has over the years developed technologies that have promoted the ideals of entrepreneurship development. However, it has mostly performed below its capacity.

10. National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI)

An agency designed to accelerate rapid technological development for the country, NASENI was designed to conduct developmental work in the areas of manufacturing, and as such, it can coordinate the proliferation of technologies developed either within or outside of its Centers including patents obtained.

This is one of the most under-performing Agencies under the Ministry and the new Minister will have to set in motion modalities to checkmate the gross misuse of NASENI levy collected over the years.

11. Nigerian Institute for Trypanosomiasis And Onchocerciasis (NITR) – This agency was created towards the elimination of the two Neglected Tropical Diseases, African Trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness in man, nagana in domestic animals) and Onchocerciasis (River blindness). But of late it has been rather more concerned with leadership squabbles and counter accusations of corruption rather than research. The minister needs to help install a qualified Veterinary professional outside the already compromised institution, for better results to come out from the institute.

12. National Office for Technology Acquisition And Promotion (NOTAP)

An agency with a mandate to implement the acquisition, promotion, and development of technology and at the same time correct certain imperfections in the acquisition of foreign technology into the country. NOTAP however has not been able to live up to expectations.

The Minister must look into the challenges companies face in obtaining approval from NOTAP over technology transfer agreements with foreign companies especially as it affects remittances and tax bedeviling the Agency.

13. Nigerian Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA)

An agency created for the research, development, documentation and promotion of Nigeria’s Indigenous Medicine for sustainable integration into the national healthcare delivery system. Since it launched its research on MALARIA ELIMINATION PROJECT and -ANTI-DIABETIC PROJECT, the agency is yet to conclude and present its findings.

14. National Space Research and Development Agency (NARSDA)

This Agency was created to focus on research and rigorous education, engineering development, design and manufacture, particularly in the areas of instrumentation, rocketry and small satellites as well as in satellite data acquisition, processing, analysis and management of related software.

The minister might want to know that there is need to commission asset assessment review of the Agency urgently.

15. Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC)

This agency is a research institution that is responsible for industrial raw materials growth, promotion and utilization. The minister needs to find out why RMRDC finds it hard to tackle rejection of Nigeria’s agro and mineral resources in the international markets.

16. Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBBRI)

This is an institute responsible for researching and developing road and building materials for the Nigerian building industry.

The RMRDC has so far not come up with any unique innovation in either building or road construction in Nigeria. A commission of inquiry is what the new Minister ought to constitute for this agency.

17. National Institute of Leather Science and Technology (NILEST)

One of the oldest Agencies in Nigeria, set up to provide courses of instructions, Training and Research in the field of Leather and Leather Product Technology and conduct research and Development on Leather Technologies and Goods Production. NILEST has been unable to push forward the National Leather, Leather Products Policy Implementation Plan till date.

In conclusion, the new Minister has a date with fate as he tackles all the challenges before him especially in his mandate to reposition the Nation’s foray in science and technology. This he can only achieve by first clearing the Augean stable of the Agencies under his ministry and ensure optimum performance. We wait to celebrate his expected success stories.

Ejiofor Agada, a social/political and technology industry commentator, writes from Abuja. He can be reached via ejiofor.agada@gmail.com