Nigeria's Communications Minister, Bosun Tijani, Elected Chair of ITU Council

Nigeria's burgeoning influence on the global stage has been further solidified with the election of our own Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, as the Chair of the 2026 Council of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). This significant appointment, announced at the Council's inaugural plenary session in Geneva, Switzerland, underscores Nigeria's growing leadership in the critical field of digital economy and telecommunications.

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The ITU Council serves as the Union’s governing body between Plenipotentiary Conferences, with responsibility for overseeing policy direction, financial management, and the effective implementation of programmes that support global connectivity, digital inclusion, and emerging technology governance.

The ITU Council serves as the Union's governing body between Plenipotentiary Conferences, tasked with crucial responsibilities including policy direction, financial oversight, and the effective implementation of programs that foster global connectivity, digital inclusion, and the governance of emerging technologies. Dr. Tijani's chairmanship comes at a pivotal moment, as the global digital landscape is rapidly transforming due to advances in Artificial Intelligence, next-generation networks, and the increasing importance of resilient digital infrastructure.

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This year’s Council comes at a critical moment as the global digital landscape is rapidly evolving, shaped by advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI), next-generation networks, and the growing importance of resilient digital infrastructure.

In his capacity as Chair, Dr. Tijani is poised to guide vital deliberations among member states. His focus will be on key strategic priorities such as strengthening the ITU's role in helping countries leverage emerging technologies, broadening stakeholder engagement, developing sustainable funding models, and driving institutional reforms to ensure the Union remains agile and responsive to global needs. This role is particularly important as it will shape discussions leading up to the upcoming Plenipotentiary Conference later this year.

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In his role as Chair, Dr. Tijani will guide deliberations among member states on key strategic priorities, including strengthening the ITU’s role in supporting countries to harness emerging technologies, expanding stakeholder engagement and sustainable funding models, and advancing institutional reforms to ensure the Union remains agile, effective, and responsive to global needs.

Dr. Tijani's acceptance speech radiated a profound sense of honor and purpose. He pledged to serve the Council with fairness, balance, and unwavering respect for the sovereignty of every member state. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts that have built the ITU's legacy and expressed eagerness to work with colleagues to achieve shared ambitions for a connected and sustainable digital world. The ITU Secretary General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, lauded the Union's progress and resilience, emphasizing the need to continue building on past achievements. This appointment is not just a personal triumph for Dr. Tijani but a proud moment for Nigeria, reflecting our nation's commitment to innovation and our capacity to lead on the international stage.

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It is a profound honour to be entrusted by member states to serve as the Chair of the 2026 Council of International Telecommunication Union.