Twenty-five years after the introduction of GSM services in Nigeria, technology and media stakeholders have reflected on the sweeping changes mobile communication has brought to society, while stressing the need to prioritize people, innovation, and the responsible use of digital technology.
The reflections came during a panel session at the 12th edition of the eWorld Forum in Lagos, themed “The GSM Digital Milestones: 25 Years On.” The forum convened industry leaders to examine the evolution of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector and the far-reaching impact of GSM on communication, business, and the economy.
Veteran ICT expert Chris Uwaje, popularly known as “The Oracle of ICT,” emphasized that while GSM is fundamentally about communication, human beings remain at the center of the process. He noted that infrastructure enables people to create and share content, but stressed the importance of cultivating innovative and resilient minds capable of navigating the rapidly changing digital environment.
“The GSM revolution gave people a voice and helped democratize human relations. It has significantly changed the way we communicate and interact,” Uwaje said.
Olaitan Ogunbiyi, Director of Operations at IHS, highlighted the transformative impact of GSM across sectors including healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, and technology. He traced Nigeria’s telecommunications journey from the 2G era, through the introduction of 3G licences in 2006, the rollout of 4G around 2016, and the expansion of fibre-optic infrastructure. Ogunbiyi noted that major technological transitions typically occur every eight to ten years, underscoring the need for continuous adaptation.
Other panelists, including Ololade Saraki of Paradigm Initiative and journalist Ken Nwobo, shared insights on how mobile connectivity has evolved from supporting voice calls to enabling internet access and a wide range of digital services. The session was moderated by Emma Okonji, ICT Editor at Thisday Newspaper.
The discussions provided a platform to reflect on the progress achieved since GSM was introduced in Nigeria 25 years ago, while drawing attention to the human and technological factors that will shape the nation’s digital future.
