The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has been appointed Chair of the 2026 Council of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

The announcement was made during the inaugural plenary session of the Council held in Geneva, Switzerland, where representatives of member states gathered to shape the Union’s strategic direction.

The ITU Council serves as the organisation’s governing body between Plenipotentiary Conferences, overseeing policy direction, financial management and the implementation of programmes aimed at advancing global connectivity, digital inclusion and the governance of emerging technologies.

According to the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Isime Esene, the Council is convening at a critical period marked by rapid changes in the global digital landscape, driven by developments in artificial intelligence, next-generation networks and the growing need for resilient digital infrastructure.

Esene said Tijani, as Chair, would steer deliberations among member states on key priorities, including strengthening the ITU’s support for countries adopting emerging technologies, broadening stakeholder engagement, promoting sustainable funding models and advancing institutional reforms to enhance the Union’s responsiveness.

He added that the Council would play a crucial role in shaping discussions ahead of the forthcoming Plenipotentiary Conference later in the year.

Reacting to his appointment, Tijani described it as a significant honour and pledged to lead with fairness, balance and respect for the sovereignty of member states.

“This legacy is a product of sustained collaboration and it is the foundation upon which we must now build. We also recognise the entire secretariat for advancing the transformation agenda from design to implementation with professionalism, commitment and focus. I look forward to working closely with colleagues to build consensus and deliver outcomes that reflect our shared ambitions,” he said.

Also speaking, ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, said the Union has continued to deliver on its commitments, noting that its internal transformation has strengthened resilience across institutions, networks and communities.

She expressed optimism about continued collaboration to build a more inclusive, sustainable and globally connected digital future.

The statement noted that Tijani’s appointment underscores Nigeria’s growing influence in global digital policy and aligns with ongoing efforts to deepen the country’s digital economy under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“It aligns with this broader national agenda by strengthening Nigeria’s voice in shaping global digital cooperation, attracting investment, and advancing policies that support innovation, connectivity, and inclusive growth.

“Through this leadership, Nigeria continues to position itself as a key contributor to building a resilient and future-ready digital ecosystem both at home and on the global stage”, Mr Esene stated. (The Nation)