In a surprising turn of events, Nigeria’s economy, which has been facing challenges on various fronts, has found an unexpected source of growth in its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. The sector recorded an impressive 8.6 percent year-on-year growth in the second quarter of 2023, marking the highest growth rate observed in the past three years.

The recently released Gross Domestic Product report by the National Bureau of Statistics sheds light on this feat. The ICT sector’s contribution to the economy in Q2 reached 19.54 percent, a notable increase from the 18.44 percent recorded during the same quarter in the previous year.

Ajibola Olude, the executive secretary of the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria, emphasized the role of digital literacy in driving this growth. He stated, “This growth is a result of the number of digital literacy in the economy; many Nigerians have been empowered with digital knowledge, especially on broadband penetration.” Olude also highlighted the sector’s efforts in extending its services to rural areas, gradually bridging the technological gap in underserved regions.

Experts pointed out that Nigeria’s progress in the technology sector is evident, particularly in the success of its telecoms industry. However, they contend that the country has not fully tapped into its potential, particularly when compared to smaller African nations like Rwanda, Botswana, and Mauritius.

To fully unlock the immense potential of Nigeria’s ICT sector, analysts argue that a significant departure from conventional practices is required. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) made significant strides in this direction earlier this year, reporting a 37.04 percent reduction in the number of Nigerians without access to telecommunication services in 2022.

Umar Danbatta, the executive vice chairman and CEO of NCC, highlighted the commission’s efforts in expanding telecom services to remote and underserved areas. “By 2022, we have reduced the clusters of access gaps to 97 from 207 in 2013. The number of Nigerians again has come down from 37 million in 2013 to 27 million as we speak,” he stated, underlining the progress made in closing the digital divide.

Despite the positive momentum, Chris Uwaje, chairman of Mobile Software Nigeria, urged the nation to align its ICT ecosystem with global standards. Uwaje emphasized the importance of software as a crucial driver of digital innovation and transformation. He noted that Nigeria is yet to establish a specialized Software Engineering Institute, a crucial component for nurturing digital innovation.

As Nigeria’s ICT sector continues to show resilience and promise, experts emphasize the necessity of a strategic focus on core competencies and innovation. With the sector’s remarkable growth and untapped potential, the nation stands at a crossroads, where embracing digital transformation could be the key to overcoming economic challenges and shaping a more prosperous future.