By Fatima Saka
Abuja, Nigeria — The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has said the 10th National Assembly is actively advancing legislative reforms aimed at strengthening data protection, cybersecurity, and broadband expansion to position Nigeria for a digital-driven future.
Kalu made this known on Wednesday in Abuja during the official Digital Switchover event organised by the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT). He noted that the National Assembly is translating policy frameworks into concrete legislative actions to support Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.
According to him, the reforms include stronger data protection and cybersecurity measures, incentives to expand affordable broadband access to underserved communities, legislation to promote local digital content and skills development, and updated spectrum management policies.
He said the legislative efforts align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises a digital-led growth strategy to enhance economic expansion and global competitiveness.
“The National Assembly is translating policy understanding into legislative action. Under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, the 10th House is advancing reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s digital future,” Kalu stated.
The Deputy Speaker further disclosed that the legislature is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, led by Minister Bosun Tijani, to strengthen the legal and institutional framework supporting digital transformation.
He explained that this includes the development of a National Digital Economy and E-Governance framework to enhance digital services, cybersecurity, and secure data exchange across government institutions, alongside ongoing investments in fibre-optic infrastructure to improve connectivity nationwide.
Kalu emphasised that the Digital Switchover represents a broader national effort to build an inclusive and modern digital economy, stressing the importance of collaboration among government, private sector players, academia, and development partners.
He highlighted the growing impact of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, satellite communications, and digital platforms, urging Nigeria to take a leadership role in shaping technological advancements rather than merely adapting to them.
The Deputy Speaker also commended NIGCOMSAT and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for their roles in driving the Digital Switchover, describing satellite infrastructure as critical to extending connectivity to underserved areas and strengthening national security.
“Satellite systems extend connectivity to underserved areas, strengthen national security, and support digital access where terrestrial networks are limited,” he said.
Kalu added that the success of the Digital Switchover should be measured not only by technical achievements but by its impact on expanding opportunities, reducing inequality, and improving the lives of Nigerians.
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He called on stakeholders across sectors to actively contribute to building a future where innovation thrives and digital opportunities are accessible to all.
“When a nation connects its people, it unlocks its potential. When it empowers its innovators, it accelerates its prosperity,” Kalu said.
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