West Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025: Full Schedule

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9:00am WAT

Think Global, Build Local: DPI for West Africa

Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT

The Africa Centre for Digital Transformation (ACDT) is an African led organization committed to providing a platform for dialogue, assessment and initiation of digital development projects. The Center was established with the vision- 'a digitally empowered Africa, led by Africans, where research and innovation drive sustainable development and inclusive prosperity. And a mission statement ‘To drive digital transformation in Africa through advocacy, capacity building, and partnerships; empowering communities, businesses, and governments for inclusive prosperity.’

West African countries stand at a pivotal moment in shaping their digital future. As governments invest in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)—including digital ID systems, digital payments, and data-sharing platforms—they face a unique opportunity to build systems that are inclusive, sovereign, and interoperable.
However, achieving this vision requires a careful balance between creating context-specific solutions and adopting proven global standards, technologies, and practices—from regional leaders like Kenya and South Africa to international models such as Estonia, Brazil, and Singapore. The imperative is clear: to build DPI and data governance frameworks that are globally interoperable yet deeply rooted in local realities.
Rather than reinventing the wheel, West African countries—individually and through ECOWAS—can adapt and localise existing frameworks to reflect the region’s values, socio-economic dynamics, and institutional contexts. Indigenous knowledge systems must play a central role in this effort. These culturally embedded frameworks offer powerful models for community consent, data stewardship, and participatory governance, providing insights into trust and access that conventional approaches often overlook.
This panel will examine how West African nations can leverage open standards, align with global digital cooperation initiatives, and incorporate socio-economic realities in their digital strategies. It will explore how localisation can complement global efforts such as WSIS+20, the Global Digital Compact (GDC), the SDGs 2030, and other continental and regional collaborations—including the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region.

Key Objectives
Showcase how localisation aligns with global DPI and data governance frameworks.
Provide legislative and policy examples from across Africa.
Identify paths toward cross-border harmonization and regional interoperability.
Engage participants in co-creating insights and sharing lived experiences.

Expected Outcomes
Clearer understanding of how DPI can be both local and globally aligned.
Policy and legislative examples for harmonisation and scale.
Integration of indigenous governance into digital cooperation.
Strengthened networks for regional collaboration.

Speakers

Obaloluwa Ajiboye

Evelyn Kwarteng

Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

NEW FIELD 1 Session

10:30am WAT

Opening Ceremony & Keynote

Thursday May 22, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm WAT

Main Hall

Thursday May 22, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions

NEW FIELD 1 Opening Ceremony & Keynote

12:00pm WAT

High-Level Panel - Building a Resilient, Inclusive, and Safe Digital Future for West Africa

Thursday May 22, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm WAT

Main Hall

This high-level panel explores West Africa’s shared vision for a digital future that is resilient, inclusive, and secure. Anchored in global frameworks such as the Global Digital Compact (GDC) and WSIS+20, the session will examine how the region can harness digital technologies to drive sustainable development while addressing critical challenges like the digital divide, online safety, and equitable governance.
The discussion will focus on three interlinked pillars:

Resilience: Advancing robust digital infrastructure and enhancing regional cooperation to mitigate cyber threats, internet fragmentation, and service disruption—particularly in underserved and rural communities.
Inclusivity: Promoting universal, affordable internet access, and strengthening digital skills and participation among women, youth, persons with disabilities, and rural populations.
Safety: Addressing online threats such as cybercrime, disinformation, and digital gender-based violence, while advocating for responsible data governance that upholds human rights.

Panelists will assess how West Africa can align its strategies with GDC targets, such as closing connectivity gaps and promoting human-centric governance, while supporting WSIS+20 objectives around ICT-enabled development and inclusive multistakeholder dialogue.
Expected Outcomes

Concrete policy recommendations for national and regional actors aligned with GDC principles
Strengthened multistakeholder collaboration on internet governance in West Africa
Strategic frameworks for tracking progress toward universal digital access and safety

This session will contribute to shaping a common roadmap where digital transformation benefits all, enhances resilience, and protects the rights of every citizen in the region.

Thursday May 22, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions

Subject Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance
Area High-Level Panel
NEW FIELD 1 High-Level Panel

2:30pm WAT

Plenary session : Enhancing Digital Resilience: Cybersecurity, Data Protection, and Online Safety

Thursday May 22, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm WAT

Main Hall

Thursday May 22, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

4:30pm WAT

Greening West Africa’s Digital Future: Addressing Tech-Driven Emissions

Thursday May 22, 2025 4:30pm - 5:30pm WAT

Main Hall

West Africa's digital economy is expanding rapidly, driven by advancements in ICT, artificial intelligence, and industrial automation. While this transformation fuels economic growth and innovation, it also contributes to rising greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. Data centres, digital devices, and industrial automation systems consume vast amounts of energy, often powered by fossil fuels, further exacerbating climate change. Despite the increasing global focus on sustainable digital infrastructure, developing economies like Nigeria lack comprehensive research and policies to mitigate these environmental risks.

This session will explore the intersection of digital transformation and environmental sustainability, drawing insights from our research on Technology-Led Greenhouse Gas Emissions (THGE) in Nigeria. Our findings indicate that inefficient e-waste management, weak emission reporting systems, and a lack of green technology incentives significantly contribute to environmental harm. Furthermore, Nigeria's reliance on fossil fuels and the limited integration of renewable energy into ICT operations pose critical challenges. Comparative insights from South Africa, Brazil, and India will highlight key lessons on policy implementation and sustainability strategies that West African nations can adopt.

To ensure a more resilient and environmentally responsible digital future, the session will explore policy recommendations and practical interventions, including:

1. Carbon taxation and regulatory enforcement to reduce emissions from digital operations.

2. Incentives for renewable energy adoption within the ICT sector to promote sustainability.

3. Strengthening public-private partnerships to drive investment in green technology solutions.

4. Developing sector-wide sustainability frameworks for emission tracking and green ICT policies.

5. Enhancing digital infrastructure efficiency through energy optimization and circular economy approaches to e-waste management.

This session aims to bridge the gap between technological innovation and environmental responsibility by addressing these key areas. We will explore how AI, data governance, and emerging technologies can drive sustainable digital transformation while minimizing their ecological footprint. Additionally, the session will examine policy frameworks that ensure West Africa's digital expansion aligns with global climate targets, net-zero commitments, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Through a multi-stakeholder dialogue involving policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders, we will develop actionable solutions to promote a sustainable digital economy. This session will provide a roadmap for integrating environmental sustainability into national and regional digital transformation strategies, ensuring that West Africa's digital future is inclusive, resilient, and ecologically responsible.

Speakers

Omoniyi Lawson

Managing Partner, Centre for Digital Development and Innovation Research (CDDIR)

Praise Adebisi

Thursday May 22, 2025 4:30pm - 5:30pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

Area Research Presentation
NEW FIELD 1 Research Presentation

8:00am WAT

Beyond Awareness: Embedding Digital Security Practices in Marginalized Communities

Friday May 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am WAT

Main Hall

While digital transformation continues to reshape societies, marginalized communities in Africa often remain excluded from the benefits of secure digital practices. These communities face unique challenges, such as limited access to resources, low levels of digital literacy, and exposure to cyber threats. Despite efforts to raise awareness, a critical gap persists in embedding sustainable digital security practices tailored to the realities of these communities.
This interactive workshop will move beyond theoretical awareness to practical implementation. Participants will explore innovative strategies, grassroots-led initiatives, and actionable tools designed to integrate digital security into the daily lives of underserved populations. Through hands-on demonstrations and real-world case studies, this session will provide a platform to share experiences, foster collaboration, and equip attendees with a framework to address digital security challenges at the local level.

Key Objectives:
Identify Barriers: Explore the unique challenges marginalized communities face in adopting secure digital practices.
Share Innovations: Present creative, low-cost solutions and tools that align with the specific needs of these communities.
Empower Grassroots Organizations: Highlight the pivotal role of grassroots organizations in promoting localized digital safety initiatives.
Provide Practical Frameworks: Equip participants with tools and frameworks to build localized, sustainable digital security programs.

Expected Outcomes:
Participants will leave with:
A deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in embedding digital security practices in marginalized communities.
Exposure to innovative tools and methods tailored to underserved populations.
A framework for implementing sustainable digital security programs.
Enhanced collaboration between grassroots organizations, policymakers, and digital rights advocates to drive community-centric digital safety initiatives.

Target Audience:
Grassroots organizations working with underserved communities.
Digital rights advocates.
Policymakers focused on inclusivity and digital transformation.
Educators and trainers in the digital literacy space.
Technologists interested in accessible and localized digital security solutions.

Moderators

Godsway Kubi

Speakers

Angela Onyegbuna

Persis Yentumi

Friday May 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

Area Workshop
NEW FIELD 1 Workshop

9:00am WAT

Building a Secure and Trusted Digital Africa: Multi-Stakeholder Perspectives

Friday May 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT

Main Hall

Security is no longer a specialized issue as Africa speeds up its digital transformation; rather, it is a fundamental component of digital trust, resilience, and sovereignty. The goal of this session is to examine the ever-changing opportunities and difficulties associated with safeguarding Africa's digital environment, from national infrastructures to connectivity at the local level.
Through a multi-stakeholder lens, the panel will bring together views from academia, civic society, the private tech sector, and the state sector. They will jointly investigate how Africa can develop a robust cybersecurity posture that fosters innovation, protects user confidence, and strengthens international collaboration.
The discussion will bother on:
1.   Africa's evolving threat landscape includes ransomware, critical infrastructure attacks, and cyber-enabled misinformation.
2.   Capacity building and local talent development in cybersecurity.
3.   The role of policy, regulation, and cross-border collaboration in driving continental cyber resilience.
4.   Trust-building strategies between governments, technology companies, and citizens.
The session will be interactive, including audience engagement, and will conclude with actionable insights and recommendations that can be adapted across countries and sectors.

Session Objectives:
1.   To explore the key cybersecurity threats and trends impacting African digital development.
2.   To examine multi-stakeholder roles in building cyber resilience and trust.
3.   To identify gaps in capacity, policy, and collaboration — and suggest practical solutions.
4.   To foster partnerships that will drive Africa’s digital safety forward.

Target Audience:
•   Policy makers and regulators
•   Network and cybersecurity professionals
•   Civil society and digital rights advocates
•   Telcos, ISPs, and infrastructure providers
•   Researchers and academia
•   Youth and emerging tech leaders

Moderator & Panelist Structure:
Moderator:
Experienced facilitator with cybersecurity governance and multistakeholder dialogue expertise.
Panelists:
Government Representative – a cybersecurity agency in Nigeria
Private Sector Leader – Cybersecurity Firm
Civil Society Advocate – digital rights and data protection representative
Academic/Special interest Leader – researcher and innovator in cyber resilience

Mode: Hybrid:
Online audience : We will utilize zoom for speakers and attendees while slido will be used for questions and polls.
Physical audience : Will be able to contribute directly from the venue.

Speakers

Tinuade Oguntuyi

Head Network and Solutions, ICSL

Karen Ajibade

Confidence Osein

SMIEEE

Friday May 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

NEW FIELD 1 Session

10:30am WAT

Plenary Session : Digital Public Infrastructure, Policy Harmonization, and Digital Cooperation

Friday May 23, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm WAT

Main Hall

Friday May 23, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions

12:00pm WAT

DPI, Data Governance, and Gender-Sensitive ICT Policies: Fostering Inclusive Community Networks

Friday May 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm WAT

Main Hall

This session will explore the critical intersection of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), data governance, gender-sensitive ICT policies, and the development of community networks in West Africa. We will delve into how DPI can be leveraged to bridge the digital divide, particularly for marginalized communities, and how robust data governance frameworks can ensure equitable access and protection, especially for women and girls. We will critically examine the role of community networks in fostering digital inclusion, empowering local communities, and promoting gender equality.

Session Objectives:

1. To analyze the current state of DPI and data governance in West Africa, focusing on its impact on marginalized groups, particularly women and girls.
2. To discuss the challenges and opportunities in developing and implementing gender-sensitive ICT policies that promote digital inclusion and safety.
3. To explore the role of community networks in bridging the digital divide, empowering local communities, and promoting gender equality.
4. To identify best practices and collaborative strategies for building resilient, inclusive, and safe digital ecosystems in West Africa.
5. To develop actionable recommendations for policymakers, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

Proposed Panelist includes:

Mistura Aruna
Assistant Director at Nigerian Communications Commission(NCC).

Tope Ogundipe
Digital Equality, Safety & Rights | Executive Director, TechSocietal.

Catherine Kyalo
Digital Inclusion | Community Connectivity | Telecoms Policy | Project Coordinator | Strategy Development and Implementation | Stakeholder Engagement.

Angela Oduor Lungati - Executive Director - Ushahidi.

Elsie Attafuah
Resident Representative, UNDP Nigeria.

Moderator:
Dr. Akinbo Adebunmi
Executive Director, Success Bridge Community Development Foundation (SBCDF).

Key Questions for Discussion:

1. How can DPI be designed and implemented to ensure equitable access for all, particularly women and girls?

2. What are the key elements of a robust data governance framework that protects the rights of marginalized communities?

3. How can gender-sensitive ICT policies be effectively implemented and enforced?

4. What are the best practices for supporting the development and sustainability of community networks?

5. How can we ensure that community networks are safe spaces for women and girls?

6. How can regional collaboration enhance the development of inclusive DPI and data governance frameworks?

This session aims to foster a constructive dialogue and generate actionable recommendations for building a more inclusive and equitable digital future for West Africa.

Speakers

Adebunmi Adeola Akinbo

Opomulero...ambassador of culture, content and communication., DNS Africa Media and Communications

My name is Adebunmi Adeola AKINBO. I am currently the first ChAC Vice-Chair and in acting capacity at the moment. I am CEO of DNS Africa, a non-profit organization in the media sector. I run Online Radio Stations and work from a Rural Area, empowering and engaging the citizenship... Read More →

Friday May 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

NEW FIELD 1 Session

2:00pm WAT

AI, Data Governance, and Innovation for Development.

Friday May 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm WAT

Main Hall

Friday May 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

4:00pm WAT

Open Mic & Closing Ceremony

Friday May 23, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm WAT

Main Hall

Friday May 23, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Area Open Mic & Closing Ceremony

6:00pm WAT

Advancing West Africa’s Digital Future through the Global Digital Compact

Friday May 23, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm WAT

Main Hall

The Global Digital Compact (GDC), proposed under the United Nations framework, aims to foster an open, free, and secure digital future for all. Given the rapid digital transformation across West Africa, regional stakeholders must engage in discussions about the GDC’s principles and their implications for connectivity, digital inclusion, human rights, and digital cooperation in the region.

This session will focus on understanding the global digital compact: What does it mean for West Africa? It will also discuss bridging the digital divide by identifying strategies for ensuring universal and meaningful connectivity. The session will also discuss Data governance and digital rights as they relate to balancing security, privacy, and innovation. It will also discuss Promoting local content and digital entrepreneurship in the region and strengthening multi-stakeholder engagement in digital policy-making.

The session will further provide a platform to assess the challenges and opportunities of aligning West Africa’s digital governance priorities with the Global Digital Compact. It will explore the role of governments, private sector actors, civil society, and technical communities in shaping policies that ensure a more inclusive and equitable digital ecosystem.

This session outcome seeks to enhance West Africa’s participation in the conversations around implementing the recently adopted Global Digital Compact to ensure that the region’s unique challenges and opportunities are effectively represented.

Session Objectives:
Provide an overview of the Global Digital Compact and its relevance to West Africa’s digital landscape.
Discuss the role of regional and national policies in promoting inclusive digital governance.
Identify key challenges and opportunities in digital inclusion, connectivity, and cybersecurity.
Foster multi-stakeholder engagement to shape a regional perspective on the GDC.

Expected Outcomes:
Increased awareness and understanding of the Global Digital Compact among West African stakeholders.
Identification of priority areas for regional engagement in global digital policy discussions.
Recommendations for integrating West African perspectives into the Global Digital Compact framework.
Strengthened partnerships among governments, the private sector, and civil society for inclusive digital development
Session Format:
This interactive session will feature a combination of panel discussions and audience engagement. Participants will hear from leading voices in government, technology, and civil society who have firsthand experience shaping inclusive digital policies. Additionally, interactive breakout discussions will allow attendees to share their insights, challenges, and ideas for strengthening multi-stakeholder collaboration in digital governance.

Speakers

West Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025

West Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025

9:00am WAT

Obaloluwa Ajiboye

Evelyn Kwarteng

10:30am WAT

12:00pm WAT

2:30pm WAT

4:30pm WAT

Omoniyi Lawson

Praise Adebisi

8:00am WAT

Godsway Kubi

Angela Onyegbuna

Persis Yentumi

9:00am WAT

Tinuade Oguntuyi

Karen Ajibade

Confidence Osein

SMIEEE

10:30am WAT

12:00pm WAT

Adebunmi Adeola Akinbo

2:00pm WAT

4:00pm WAT

6:00pm WAT

Emmanuel Kwasi Gadasu

Ihueze Nwobilor

Engr. Kunle Olorundare

SMIEEE

Gbenga Sesan

Adeboro Odunlami