Nigeria’s Minister: ‘No Instruction to Tamper with Network Connectivity

Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Digital Economy, has publicly denied allegations suggesting that the government has directed telecom companies to disrupt network services amid ongoing nationwide protests. As demonstrations continue across the country, there have been rising reports of users experiencing slow internet speeds from major telecom providers, including MTN and Airtel. This has led to widespread speculation that the government may have ordered these operators to intentionally interfere with their services in an effort to impede the protests and limit communication among demonstrators.

In a clear response to these claims, Tijani appeared on Channels TV, where he stated unequivocally, "There's no instruction to tamper with (phone) networks." His comments are intended to reassure the public that there is no government-led initiative to censor or obstruct telecommunications during this period of unrest. By refuting these allegations, Tijani aims to foster transparency and maintain trust between the government and citizens, particularly in the digital communication space.

The minister’s remarks come in the context of heightened tensions and unrest within the country, where many citizens are concerned about their rights to protest and communicate freely. The accusation of government interference with telecom services raises serious implications for civil liberties, making Tijani's clarification an important aspect of the current discourse surrounding the protests.

Moreover, Tijani has also condemned the recent looting of the National Communication Commission (NCC) building in Kano State, describing it as a significant setback to the federal government’s ongoing efforts to encourage youth employment through technology and innovation. He emphasized that such acts of vandalism not only damage vital infrastructure but also undermine the government's initiatives aimed at creating job opportunities and fostering a vibrant technological landscape for the nation’s youth. This incident highlights the critical need for a stable environment where technology can thrive and contribute to economic growth.

Tijani's remarks reflect a deeper understanding of the interplay between societal stability and economic development, especially in a country where the youth demographic plays a crucial role in shaping the future. By condemning the looting, he advocates for the protection of essential institutions that support the digital economy, stressing that disruption to these entities can have far-reaching consequences on employment prospects and innovation efforts. As the government navigates these challenges, maintaining a focus on safeguarding both communication infrastructure and public order will be vital for realizing its vision of a technology-driven economy that empowers young people and promotes sustainable development.

By addressing both the allegations of telecom interference and the incident of looting, Tijani is actively engaging with critical issues that impact the digital economy and societal stability in Nigeria. His statements reflect a broader commitment to safeguarding communication networks while promoting an environment where technology can drive economic growth and empower young people. This focus on maintaining robust digital infrastructure is essential not only for fostering innovation but also for ensuring that citizens can freely express their views and organize for change.

As the situation develops, the government will likely continue to navigate the challenges posed by public dissent, recognizing the importance of upholding citizens' rights to communicate and mobilize. The balance between maintaining order and respecting civil liberties will be crucial for the government as it seeks to address the underlying concerns that have led to these protests. Tijani’s proactive stance suggests that the government is aware of the potential consequences of restricting communication during times of unrest, emphasizing the need for dialogue and transparency in addressing the nation’s grievances. This approach could ultimately contribute to a more resilient and inclusive digital economy, where technology serves as a tool for empowerment and social progress.