Buhari directs Agencies to Implement Broadband Plan, Protect National Infrastructure

Buhari directs Agencies to Implement Broadband Plan, Protect National Infrastructure

President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, has directed the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami FNCS, FBCS, FIIM to work with all Ministries, Departments, Agencies and Parastatals of Government towards the protection of Critical National Infrastructure . The President gave the directive at the commissioning of several projects and programmes, of the Ministry in Abuja.

Addressing top government functionaries and captains of industry, at the unveiling of the National Broadband plan 2020-2025, the launching of the Emergency Communications Centre and Toll Free Number 112, the commissioning of the Communications and Digital Economy Complex and the flag off of the Digital Innovation and Entreprenuership Training, President Buhari expressed delight at the laudable developments which he noted “will enhance the development of our National Digital Economy and support our efforts in diversifying the economy”

Speaking further, the President emphasized that the commissioning of the Toll Free Number 112, which will soon be deployed nationwide, “further demonstrates our resolve to keep Nigerians safe. We have taken advantage of Digital Technologies to ensure that Nigerians in distress, are only a dial away from the relevant emergency response institutions in the country”.

He disclosed that the flag- off of the Digital Nigeria Training Programme, is an initiative, that will drive innovation and entreprenuership in emerging technologies, for economic empowerment and global competitiveness.

He commended the efforts of the Honourable Minister and the Presidential Broadband Committee, for the successful development of a National Broadband Plan. He particularly commended the leadership quality of the Honourable Minister which has brought about a high level of synergy among the Parastatals under the Ministry’s purview..

In his remarks, the Chief Host and Chief Convener of the event, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami while thanking the President for the immense support enjoyed by the sector under his leadership, enjoined all Nigerians to support the digital economy Agenda of the Federal Government as a digital economy is an enabling platform capable of supporting the President’s three point Agenda of Security, Anti-corruption and Economic development, including the potential of lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty, citing the China, Imdonesia and Indian economies as examples. The Honourable Minister also commended members of the Presidential Broadband Plan Committee for being thorough, professional and timely with their assignment.

The high-powered event was attended by top government functionaries, captains of industry, members of the diplomatic corps and stakeholders including representatives of the leadership of the National Assembly, Ministers of FCT, Women Affairs, Defence, Police Affairs, Industry Trade and Investment, State Ministers of Education, Foreign Affairs, Education, FCT, Labour and Employment, Budget and Planning, Board Chairmen of Federal Parastatals, Service Chiefs, members of the Organised Private Sector, to mention but a few.

Signed

Uwa Suleiman (Mrs)