By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The 7th Ordinary Session of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) Conference of Plenipotentiaries (CPL-26) concluded in Abuja with a strong call for sustained collaboration among African nations to accelerate the continent’s digital transformation, as outgoing Secretary-General John Omo and Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, praised delegates for charting a new course for the Union.
Delivering his farewell remarks, the outgoing ATU Secretary-General, John Omo, expressed gratitude to member states, the conference leadership and the Union’s staff for their unwavering commitment throughout his tenure, saying the conference had successfully provided the organisation with a renewed mandate for the next four years.
He commended the outgoing Administrative Council, committee chairpersons and member states, including Zimbabwe, Eswatini and Namibia, for their dedication and leadership, noting that their guidance and scrutiny had helped shape many of the landmark decisions adopted during his administration.
Omo urged the newly elected Administrative Council to build on the progress made, assuring members that the Secretariat would continue to provide impartial support in implementing the Union’s resolutions.
Reflecting on his years in office, he paid glowing tribute to the Secretariat staff, recounting their tireless efforts and long working hours in ensuring the Union delivered on its mandate.
He also acknowledged the support of the Conference Secretary, Marshall Dossa, and appealed to member states to continue providing the Secretariat with the resources and backing needed to serve the Union effectively.
The outgoing Secretary-General thanked the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for providing personnel and logistical support that contributed to the successful hosting of the conference.
Congratulating the Secretary-General-elect, Engineer Désiré Karyabwite, Omo called on all contestants in the election to respect the outcome and work together for the advancement of the Union.
He pledged a smooth transition, announcing that he would work closely with the incoming Secretary-General before formally handing over office at the end of his tenure.
Omo also appreciated the African Union Commission, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), development partners and other stakeholders whose contributions ensured the success of the conference.
While declaring the conference closed, he reminded delegates that although the plenipotentiary meeting had ended, the work of advancing Africa’s digital agenda would continue through upcoming engagements, including the African Digital Transformation Summit in Zimbabwe and other regional telecommunications meetings.
In his closing address, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, thanked member states for entrusting Nigeria with the responsibility of hosting the eight-day conference.
He described the gathering as a shining example of African solidarity, noting that the discussions, decisions and consensus reached during the conference reflected the continent’s shared commitment to building a stronger digital future through cooperation.
“The outcomes of this conference demonstrate not only the strength of our institutions but also the collective determination of African countries to work together in advancing digital transformation across the continent,” he said.
Dr Tijani paid special tribute to John Omo for his years of dedicated service to the ATU, praising his contributions to strengthening telecommunications cooperation across Africa.
He also congratulated the newly elected Secretary-General, expressing confidence that member states would give the new leadership their full support in advancing the Union’s vision during a critical period for Africa’s digital development.
The minister further commended Nigerian institutions, particularly the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the Nigerian Communications Commission and other agencies, for their role in successfully hosting delegates from across the continent.
Precise Post recalls that the conference ended with delegates reaffirming their commitment to implementing the resolutions adopted in Abuja and strengthening regional cooperation to accelerate digital connectivity, innovation and inclusive economic development across Africa.
