The Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (NIEEE) says digital infrastructure remains a critical driver for sustainable economic development and growth in the country.

The president of NIEEE, Felix Olu, said this at the closing ceremony of the 2025 International Conference and Exhibition of Power and Telecommunications (ICEPT) held on Thursday in Osogbo.

Digital infrastructure refers to the underlying systems and structures that enable the flow, processing, and exchange of digital information, like networks, data centres, and cybersecurity, among others.

Mr Olu explained that digital infrastructure served as the platform for digital and knowledge sharing, while it was also the fuel which triggered economic growth in many developed countries worldwide.

According to him, stakeholders must join hands to improve the country’s digital infrastructure by bridging the gaps to align with population growth.

“We have identified four areas that need urgent attention, including challenges in funding, deficit of manpower, maintenance management, and policy implementation.

“There are three major areas we need to focus on: adequate funding of the digital economy, stable power, and manpower development through training more professionals,” he said.

According to him, accelerated economic growth and development will follow once critical steps are taken to address the current digital challenges.

A national discussion on digital infrastructure was held, featuring various experts from different fields, suggesting ideas to improve digital infrastructure in the country.

A communiqué was also issued at the end of the conference on contemporary issues in power, communications, and energy.

The communiqué highlighted the need for integrating artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and automation in information and communication technology (ICT) to enhance efficiency in the energy and industrial sectors.

It also called for research-industry collaboration to accelerate the deployment of clean energy technology and digital transformation initiatives, among others.

(NAN)