Abuja 2025 IEEE CTU Summit: Industry leaders tackle EMEA digital divide

By Nana Theresa Timothy

The 2025 IEEE Connecting the Unconnected (CTU) EMEA Summit kicked off on Tuesday, transforming Abuja city into a central hub for global technology leaders, policymakers, and innovators. The event, hosted by the IEEE Nigeria Section at Baze University, launched a high-stakes dialogue focused on a single mission: accelerating inclusive digital access across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA).

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The opening day was marked by bold commitments, profound insights, and a unified call to move from planning to actionable solutions to bridge the region’s persistent digital gaps.

A Flagship Platform for Digital Inclusion

Under the theme “Connecting the Unconnected: Bridging Digital Frontiers,” the 2025 summit zeroes in on practical pathways to expand affordable broadband, scale rural connectivity, and strengthen the policy and energy ecosystems that underpin true digital transformation.

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The summit explores solutions across eight strategic tracks, including universal connectivity infrastructure, sustainable financing, rural innovations, and cybersecurity, aiming to foster collaboration between telecom experts, government agencies, investors, and researchers.

A Call to Action: From Ideas to Implementation

Prof. (Mrs.) Ifeyinwa Eucharia Achumba, Chair of the IEEE Nigeria Section, officially opened the summit by emphasizing the urgent need to address the connectivity disparities that limit economic opportunity and social inclusion for millions.

“This summit is a call to move from ideas to action. Let us work together to build a digital future where no community is left behind,” she declared.

The opening ceremony featured goodwill messages from key bodies including the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF). The event also honored several dignitaries, including Prof. Nentawe G. Yilwatda and Jane Egerton-Idehen, with recognition awards for their contributions to engineering and digital innovation.

Keynote 1: Using Digital Tools to Combat Poverty

In a data-rich keynote address, Prof. Nentawe G. Yilwatda detailed how technology is being leveraged to strengthen Nigeria’s social protection systems. He highlighted the critical role of digital infrastructure—from the National Social Register covering over 70 million individuals to the integration of NIN and BVN data—in reducing fraud and ensuring aid reaches its intended recipients.

Prof. Yilwatda also showcased advanced predictive analytics tools that use AI and geospatial data to forecast floods and trigger early humanitarian responses, arguing that “engineering, data science, and digital governance are central to building a nation where no citizen is invisible.”

Keynote 2: The Critical Link Between Connectivity and Cybersecurity

Mr. Rex Mafiana, MD/CEO of FPG Tech & Solutions, delivered a compelling warning about the dangers of expanding connectivity without parallel security measures. He argued that Africa’s rapid population growth is outpacing its secure digital infrastructure, leaving vulnerable communities exposed to online scams and data breaches.

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“Connectivity without cybersecurity turns access into exposure. Without trust, inclusion cannot exist,” Mafiana stated, urging the adoption of Security by Design and Zero Trust principles to protect every new connection from the ground up.

Plenary Sessions: Blueprinting the Connected Future

The first day concluded with two dynamic panel discussions:

• Plenary 1: Innovative Infrastructure Solutions for Universal Connectivity: Led by Jane Egerton-Idehen of NIGCOMSAT, the panel explored the expansion of satellite technology, fiber optics, and community networks as critical enablers of widespread broadband access.

• Plenary 2: Policy, Regulation, and Financing for Connectivity: Chaired by Dr. Femi Adeluyi of NITDA, experts dissected the regulatory reforms and sustainable financing models needed to support innovation and ensure affordable access for all.

Setting the Stage for a Digitally Inclusive EMEA

The powerful discussions and collaborations on the first day of the IEEE CTU EMEA Summit have laid a strong foundation for the work ahead. With its focus on practical, secure, and inclusive solutions, the summit has positioned itself as a pivotal catalyst for shaping a more connected future for the EMEA region.