By Bello Shehu Shuni
Sokoto State, located in the Northwestern region of the country, faces significant challenges in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector.
With a large population and limited access to digital technologies, the state struggles to keep pace with the rapidly evolving technology landscape.
Current State of ICT in Sokoto:
The current statistics on ICT adoption in the state are alarming:
Low ICT penetration:
Only 6.1 per cent of women and 23.4 per cent of men in the state have access to digital technologies.
Limited digital skills:
The majority of the population lacks basic digital skills, hindering their ability to participate in the digital economy.
Infrastructural challenges:
The state faces significant infrastructural challenges, including limited internet connectivity, inadequate power supply and poor road network.
To bridge the ICT gap in the state, the following measures are necessary:
Investment in digital infrastructure:
The state government should invest in digital infrastructure, including internet connectivity, power supply and road networks.
Digital skills training:
The government and private sector should collaborate to provide digital skills training programmes for the population.
Encouraging ICT adoption:
The state government should implement policies and initiatives that encourage ICT adoption among the population.
I advise the newly created Ministry of Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship to join hands with relevant organizations within and outside the country to come out with solutions that will tackle the problems of low ICT penetration, limited digital skills and infrastructural challenges in the state.
Shuni can be reached via: 08035114465.
