Nigeria's telecommunications industry has undergone significant changes since the introduction of GSM services 25 years ago. Technology and media stakeholders gathered at the 12th edition of the eWorld Forum in Lagos to examine the evolution of the industry and its impact on communication, businesses, and various sectors of the economy. The forum, themed "The GSM Digital Milestones: 25 Years On," brought together experts to share their experiences and insights on the GSM revolution.
Veteran ICT expert Chris Uwaje emphasized that human beings remain at the center of the communication process, despite the growth of digital technology. He stressed the importance of developing innovative and resilient minds capable of navigating the changing communication environment. Uwaje noted that the GSM revolution has given people a voice and helped democratize human relations, significantly changing the way people communicate and interact.
Olaitan Ogunbiyi, Director of Operations at IHS, highlighted the impact of GSM on various sectors of the economy, including healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, and technology. He traced Nigeria's telecommunications development from the 2G era, explaining that internet connectivity was initially based on technologies such as EDGE and GPRS, which offered relatively slow speeds. The introduction of 3G licenses around 2006 brought faster internet connectivity, followed by the 4G era around 2016.
The panel discussion moderated by Emma Okonji, ICT Editor for Thisday Newspaper, also included Ololade Saraki of Paradigm Initiative and journalist Ken Nwobo. The discussions provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress recorded since GSM was introduced 25 years ago, while drawing attention to the human and technological factors that will shape Nigeria's digital future.
The stakeholders noted that mobile connectivity has evolved from primarily supporting voice communication to enabling internet access and a growing range of digital services. They emphasized the need to place greater emphasis on people, innovation, and the responsible use of digital technology. The panelists also highlighted the importance of building innovative and resilient minds capable of navigating the changing communication environment.
The eWorld Forum provided a platform for stakeholders to share their experiences and insights on the GSM revolution and its impact on Nigeria's economy and society. The discussions also drew attention to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Nigeria's digital future. The forum was an opportunity to reflect on the progress recorded since GSM was introduced 25 years ago.
The GSM revolution has had a profound impact on Nigeria's economy and society, transforming the way people communicate, interact, and access various services. As Nigeria looks to the future, stakeholders emphasize the need for continued innovation, investment in digital infrastructure, and a focus on developing the skills and competencies needed to navigate the rapidly changing digital landscape.
Key points
- The introduction of GSM services 25 years ago has had a profound impact on Nigeria's economy and society.
- Stakeholders emphasize the need for continued innovation, investment in digital infrastructure, and a focus on developing the skills and competencies needed to navigate the rapidly changing digital landscape.
- The GSM revolution has given people a voice and helped democratize human relations, significantly changing the way people communicate and interact.
