The Nigerian government on Thursday promised to complete the digitisation of all the 774 local government headquarters by 2026.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, disclosed this at a stakeholders’ retreat on Project 774 Connectivity in Abuja.

Mr Tijani said the project would be executed in collaboration with other agencies under its purview.

“If you are asking about the timeline for reaching all 774 LGs, the goal is that by 2027, we will have achieved this. We have outlined this in the blueprint that was presented,” Mr Tijani noted.

Mr Tijani said the project reflects the government’s commitment to deepen inclusive development and ease access to digital public infrastructure in government offices.

The minister also emphasised the role of LGs in delivering quality services, saying his ministry is committed to providing seamless access to the internet and data for maximum delivery.

“They are responsible for providing essential primary healthcare services, including immunisation, maternal and child health programmes, and disease prevention initiatives.

“They also oversee the management and administration of primary and secondary schools and the implementation of education policies. They ensure the implementation of social assistance programmes to support vulnerable populations, including the elderly, disabled, and economically disadvantaged individuals and families,” he said.

Mr Tijani added that the digitisation will empower local entrepreneurs and businesses while promoting inclusive development in the country.

The Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said the project had already started in the state.

“Some LGAs in the state are already benefiting from this project. It is something that is connecting the people and helping in digitising the administration of local government councils in Kogi,” Mr Fanwo said.