Bosun Tijani has been named the minister of communications, innovation, and digital economy. The 46-year-old tech entrepreneur and investor is now tasked with driving impactful policies to support the Nigerian tech ecosystem.
After scaling through a grueling ministerial screening, Bosun Tijani has been named minister of communications, innovation, and digital economy, according to a list conveying ministerial portfolios unveiled on Wednesday.
The CcHub CEO, whose nomination has signified new heights for Nigeria’s tech ecosystem, had faced opposition from lawmakers over his critical tweets about Nigeria’s politics and politicians. But a heartfelt apology was his saving grace.
His appointment represents a break from the norm of civil servants and career politicians appointed as the minister responsible for Nigeria’s fast-growing digital economy. For instance, the immediate past minister of communications and digital economy, Isa Pantanmi formerly served as the director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
Although Tijani won’t be the first startup founder to serve in government, this will be the first time that a member of the tech ecosystem will be getting a cabinet position, creating a new level of validation. The 46-year-old, who co-founded one of the most influential tech incubators on the continent, will now be tasked with driving impactful policies to support the ecosystem he has helped build. Just last week, Obi Ozor, the CEO of Kobo360, a logistics startup, was appointed as commissioner of transport in Enugu.
Tijani has led the expansion of CcHub across Nigeria, Kenya, and more recently, Namibia. From its humble beginnings in Yaba, CcHub has become a significant catalyst for tech advancement in Africa by empowering young people with the tools, communities, and capital they need to launch impactful ventures. With a billion naira growth fund, CcHub has committed to impacting over 95 early-stage businesses including those bringing innovation to Africa’s education and healthcare systems.
