Pantami lauded for ICT sector growth

Stakeholders have eulogised the outgone Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Pantami for the positive revolution he championed in the last four years.

According to them, the digital sector contributed to the growth of the Gross Domestic Product of the Nigerian economy.

A statement issued on Monday by the Deputy Director (Press and Public Relations) in the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, Ekaete Umoh, said the stakeholders spoke during a valedictory and send-forth ceremony organised in Pantami’s honour in Abuja, where speakers spotlighted his achievements.

Speaking to his guests at the event, Pantami said he delivered on the eight pillars of the digital economy, in line with the directives from the former President, Muhammadu Buhari.

“When I came in as the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Mr President charged me and the Permanent Secretary to ensure we deliver on our mandate within the eight key pillars of the digital economy.”

The former minister itemised some the pillars as the implementation of broadband connectivity; deployment of 4G access to the country; digitalising government functions and processes; development and implementation of a national digital economy policy and strategy; implementation of a digital identity program.

Others were the improvement and optimisation of revenues in the agencies under the ministry’s supervision; active collaboration with the private sector to create jobs and empowerment of citizens through digital literacy and skills.

According to him, as pioneer minister, the performance of the digital sector was assessed by the foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, United Kingdom and KPMG among others, in partnership with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, for which he was adjudged and scored the highest amongst all ministers.