By Helen Udoh-Abuja

The Chief Executive Office/Executive Vice Chairman, of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta, has restated the commitment of the Commission to leverage on the power of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in digitally transforming the society and communities for the good of all.

The NCC boss made this known at the 14th World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD), with the theme: “Accelerating Digital Transformation in Challenging Times.”

 Danbatta, said: “The WTISD 2021 provides a unique opportunity for International Communication Union (ITU) members to continue in their quest for an accelerated digital transformation agenda that is all-encompassing, by promoting national strategies on ICT development across the world.

He said: “COVID-19 has highlighted the urgency of accelerating the digital transformation in advancing the goal of the Connect 2030 Agenda of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) leaving no one behind.

He admitted that NCC has always participated actively in commemorating the day with increased vigour at accelerating digital transformation of the Nigerian societies especially in challenging times and throughout the year with national, regional, continental and international initiatives.

The COVID-19 crisis, he added has not only highlighted the critical role of ICT for continued functioning of societies but has also brought to the fore the startling digital inequalities between and within countries.

Nigeria and other ITU members have stepped up and engaged in activities that have proven essential in saving lives and sustaining economies, demonstrating their remarkable resilience in the face of challenging times.

The pandemic, THE EVC added has highlighted the urgency of accelerating digital transformation and advancing the goals and targets of the Connect 2030 Agenda to leave no one behind.

Therefore, the WTISD 2021 is an opportunity for ITU membership to continue to push for digital transformation by promoting national strategies on ICT development, smart policies to encourage investments, cooperation, and partnership