By STANLEY NWANOSIKE

The Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, says the Federal Government will give the upcoming maiden Enugu Tech Festival (ETF) an international outlook.

The Enugu State Government has scheduled the ETF to hold from May 6 to May 9 at the International Conference Centre, Enugu.

Tijani announced plans to give the event an international profile on Saturday in Enugu after unveiling its logo and vest as part of his activities during a two-day working visit to Enugu State.

The minister said he would personally attend the festival and ensure its expansion to attract tech professionals from across the global.

According to him, the Enugu Tech Festival will help to strengthen the ongoing collaboration between the state and Federal Government in advancing technological innovation, digital infrastructure and digital entrepreneurship.

Tijani commended Gov. Peter Mbah for vision in fostering innovation and technological development in Enugu State.

?This is a governor that understands and believe in the potentials of technology and innovation,? he said.

He lauded the governor?s deployment of technology and innovation in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education and industry.

He said that would lay the foundation for a vibrant digital economy that would empower youths.

The minister outlined a series of ground-breaking initiatives aimed at further transforming Enugu?s technological landscape.

?The ministry, through its Project 774 Connectivity Initiative, will bring internet access to 17 Local Government secretariats across the state.

?Powered by Galaxy Backbone and NIGCOMSAT, the initiative will ensure seamless connectivity for government offices and public, facilitating efficient governance.

?In addition, the collaboration between Galaxy Backbone and Enugu State will lead to the establishment of a Digital Innovation Complex.

?This facility will serve as a hub for technological growth, offering digital innovation, training, and entrepreneurial support.

?It will also connect over 200 state-owned institutions, including schools, healthcare centers, and government offices to reliable internet services further enhancing the state?s digital infrastructure,? he said.

Tijani announced the Federal Government?s plan to extend internet access to underserved areas in the state through the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF).

He said It would involve the installation of a new base station and the laying of 15-kilometers of fiber optic cable to provide high-speed internet.

?As part of this initiative, computer laboratories will be set up in one secondary school and one tertiary institution in Enugu,? he said.

Responding, the Enugu State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Lawrence Ezeh, expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government for his support and commitment to the development of Enugu?s technological landscape.

Ezeh also took the opportunity to laud Gov. Peter Mbah for his visionary leadership in driving tech governance and fostering a robust digital economy in the state. (NAN)

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