African Ministers Convene for Key Telecommunications Conference in Abuja
African ministers responsible for telecommunications, information and communications technology, and the digital economy have convened in Abuja, Nigeria, for the 7th Regular Session of the African Telecommunications Union Plenipotentiary Conference.
Taking place over the next two days, July 23-24, 2026, this conference, referred to as CPL-26, is crucial for determining the governance, financing, and leadership of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) for the upcoming four-year cycle. The discussions aim to align the ATU’s activities with the technological and connectivity priorities of various African nations. Additionally, delegates at the conference will elect the Secretary General and members of the ATU Management Council for the next term.
Ministers will also focus on Africa’s preparations for the 2026 International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference, where member countries will chart the future of the World Telecommunications Organization. The deliberations in Abuja are anticipated to solidify Africa’s unified stance, which will be presented at the ITU conference scheduled to commence in Doha later this year.
The ATU, as the African Union’s specialized agency for ICT, organizes a plenipotentiary conference every four years, serving as its highest decision-making forum.
Nigeria’s Vice President, His Excellency Senator Kassim Shettima, emphasized that Africa’s digital aspirations hinge on collaborative efforts among member states. In a message relayed by his Chief of Staff, Senator Ibrahim Hadezia, he remarked that when Africa presents a united front, its collective influence grows, ensuring that regional priorities receive the attention they deserve.
Welcoming attendees on behalf of the Nigerian government, Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, urged delegates to cultivate cooperation and promote a unified digital vision. He expressed that the rapid evolution of digital technologies demands an unprecedented level of collaboration, asserting that the conference is an opportunity to reinforce partnerships and unify efforts toward strengthening Africa’s position in the global telecommunications and digital economy landscape.
International Telecommunication Union Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin asserted that Africa possesses the potential to significantly influence the development and governance of digital technologies. She conveyed that Africa’s role will not be limited to being consumers of technology; rather, the continent is poised to emerge as innovators, creators, standard-setters, and dependable global partners in shaping the digital future.
Addressing the conference, Ms. Lerato Mataboge, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy at the African Union Commission, highlighted that this conference aligns with the African Union’s goal of accelerating digital transformation and advancing Agenda 2063, the continent’s strategic plan for global advancement. She noted that the success of the second ten-year implementation phase of Agenda 2063 relies on advancing Africa’s digital single market by 2030, enhancing connectivity, and fostering skills in artificial intelligence and digital governance.
The outgoing Algerian Chairman of the CPL, Hon. Mr. Sid Ali Zerouki, represented by Algerian Ambassador to Nigeria His Excellency Hosin Mezoed, stated that the resolutions made during the Abuja conference extend beyond internal union matters. He underscored the necessity of strengthening ATU’s governance and financial sustainability, approving a strategic direction aimed at advocating for Africa’s interests in vital domains such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital platforms.
ATU Secretary-General John Omo reiterated the union’s commitment to enhancing collaboration with international organizations and private sector partners. He acknowledged the contributions from stakeholders like GSMA and Qualcomm, emphasizing that the support received is vital for the success of CPL-26 and the overarching goals of the ATU. Omo underscored the importance of maintaining member state trust and cooperation to safeguard the union’s collective mission.
The outcome of this two-day conference is expected to delineate the strategic, institutional, and financial framework for the ATU over the next four years, ensuring a cohesive political foundation for future cooperation among African nations.
