Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa-Ali Pantami, has said that Nigeria’s major challenges, including insecurity and unemployment, can be addressed through effective use of technology, strong policy frameworks, and stable electricity supply.
He made this known on Monday during the launch of a compendium showcasing 241 legacy projects and over 700 job opportunities created between 2016, when he served as Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, and 2019–2023, when he was minister.
Pantami noted that the world is currently in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which is driven by digital innovation and artificial intelligence.
The cybersecurity expert said, “This era is all about technology, particularly digital technology and most importantly, artificial intelligence.”
He added, “I strongly believe that there is a solution to each and every challenge we have in Nigeria in technology.”
He explained that during his time in office, he implemented several technology-driven initiatives across the country aimed at empowering young people and improving key sectors such as education, security, and the economy.
Pantami also said that digital centres established under his leadership have improved surveillance and crime detection, citing Gombe State as an example where security agencies can monitor activities remotely in real time.
According to him, “From that office, you will be able to see whatever is happening without going there physically. It allows you to track criminals and arrest them when necessary.”
On job creation, he highlighted opportunities in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, noting that these sectors can significantly reduce unemployment.
“In cybersecurity alone, we have millions of job opportunities. In artificial intelligence, there are over 87 million new jobs globally. This shows we can address unemployment through technology,” he said.
Pantami added that his record in office reflects his commitment to national development, stating that he executed over 241 projects in Gombe State and contributed to more than 4,600 projects, programmes, and policies nationwide.
He further maintained that no state was left behind in the distribution of projects during his tenure, stressing that fairness and equity were upheld across the country.
Reflecting on his public service, he said he served without any corruption allegations, expressing gratitude for what he described as an integrity-filled record.
Pantami expressed confidence that continued investment in technology-driven initiatives would strengthen Nigeria’s education system, security architecture, and economic growth.
