The Sokoto State Government, through the Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy, has pledged enhanced collaboration with MTN Nigeria and other stakeholders to accelerate digital transformation. The call was made during the Northern ICT Commissioners’ Workshop and Dinner, held at Zuma Rock Resort, Suleja, Niger State, Nigeria.
The workshop, themed “Driving Inclusive Digital Transformation Across Northern Nigeria,” brought together ICT Commissioners and industry stakeholders to explore strategies for bridging the digital divide and promoting socio-economic development through technology.
Representing Sokoto State at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Innovation and Digital Economy, Hon. Bashar Umar Kwabo A.A, reaffirmed the state’s leadership role in digital innovation. He noted that Sokoto made history as the first state in Nigeria to establish a Ministry dedicated to innovation and the digital economy in 2023. This, he said, was followed by the creation of the Sokoto State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (SICTDA), and the State Advisory Committee on Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, all aimed at strengthening digital governance and innovation.
Hon. Kwabo commended MTN Nigeria for its long-standing relationship with the state, referencing the company’s contributions to maternal and child health, youth development, and digital empowerment programmes. He, however, urged the telecom company to expand its Corporate Social Responsibility footprint in Sokoto by supporting the state’s ongoing digital initiatives under the leadership of the visionary Governor of Sokoto State, His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, PhD, FCNA, FNCS.
He further highlighted key areas of collaboration between MTN Nigeria and Sokoto State, including broadband expansion to underserved communities, cybersecurity and data protection. Additional areas are youth empowerment through digital skills training, and public-private partnerships for digital infrastructure development.
The Commissioner emphasized that such partnerships are vital to building a resilient and inclusive digital economy not only in Sokoto but across Northern Nigeria. The two-day workshop provided a platform for Northern states to share best practices, explore innovative solutions, and forge sustainable partnerships that will ensure equitable access to digital opportunities across the region.
Muhammad Abubakar
Head of Unit, Digital Media and Communications)
24-10-2025
