By Chinenye Anuforo
As the country navigates the era of tech disruptions, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called on businesses to embrace innovation and adapt to the changing landscape.
The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), NCC, who made the call during his opening remarks at the Information Communication Technology Conference 2023 (ICTEL Expo) explained that companies that are agile and willing to experiment with emerging technologies will gain a competitive advantage in their respective industries.
At the same time, he pointed out that it is important to ensure ethical and responsible use of technology to address any potential challenges it may bring.
“In line with our plan, we recognize that the rapid pace of technological advancement is disrupting industries across the globe. Nigeria is no exception.
Our vision is rooted in the belief that embracing this disruption and fostering innovation will propel our nation toward sustainable growth, economic diversification, and enhanced living standards for all Nigerians”, Danbatta said.
The EVC represented by Mr Alkasim Umar, Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau of NCC argued that the Commission has contributed significantly to the technology disruptions happening in Nigeria.
He said, “As the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the telecommunications industry, the NCC plays a crucial role in creating an enabling environment for innovation, investment, competition, growth, and development of the sector.
Technology has always played a significant role in shaping the world we live in. But in recent years, advancements have accelerated at an unprecedented rate.
The 4th Industrial Revolution synonymous with the advent of the internet is driven by information and Communications Technology (ICT) and this is fundamentally changing all aspects of our lives and reshaping economic, social
And cultural paradigms across the world.
Our Strategic Vision Plan (2021 – 2025), a roadmap for the future, guides our efforts to harness this power and drive positive change in Nigeria.”
Continuing, the EVC said disruptive technology refers to significant changes and innovations in technology that fundamentally impact the way people live and work. “It is an innovation that significantly alters the way that consumers, industries, or businesses operate. These disruptions often arise from either the introduction of new technologies or the application of existing ones in novel ways.
He explained that the 5th Industrial Revolution powered by 5G networks is characterized by disruptive technologies which have attributes that are recognizably superior. Examples of such disruptive technologies include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain Technology, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and other emerging technologies which have demonstrated the potential of transforming industries and businesses.
Danbatta recognized that the rapid pace of technological advancement is disrupting industries across the globe. “Nigeria is no exception. Our vision is rooted in the belief that embracing this disruption and fostering innovation will propel our nation toward sustainable growth, economic diversification, and enhanced living standards for all Nigerians”, he said.