The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, has called for increased investment in cybersecurity and broadband infrastructure to strengthen Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
Akume, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr Ibrahim Kana, made the call on Friday in Abuja during a gala and awards ceremony marking the 20th anniversary of Galaxy Backbone.
He described Galaxy Backbone as a strategic national institution that has played a significant role in improving governance, enhancing public service delivery and supporting economic development over the past two decades.
According to him, the agency has grown from an ambitious government project into Nigeria’s leading provider of secure digital connectivity for public institutions.
He explained that the organisation was originally created to deliver a unified and secure ICT infrastructure for government operations and to improve efficiency in service delivery through technology.
“Today, Galaxy Backbone stands as one of the country’s leading digital institutions and a trusted provider of secure government connectivity.
“Its journey reflects Nigeria’s broader digital transformation story, from modest beginnings to a position of innovation and excellence,” he said.
The SGF noted that the agency has been central to connecting Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), strengthening cybersecurity systems, supporting e-governance and enabling collaboration across government institutions.
He added that its fibre-optic networks, data centres, cloud services and secure platforms now serve as critical infrastructure for modern governance.
Akume stressed that digital transformation is no longer optional but essential for national development in a fast-changing global environment.
He noted that countries that embrace technology are better positioned to achieve economic growth, improve governance and enhance citizens’ quality of life.
He attributed the achievements of Galaxy Backbone to strong leadership, skilled personnel, supportive government policies and long-standing partnerships.
In his remarks, Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State reaffirmed the state’s commitment to digital transformation and expressed readiness to deepen collaboration with Galaxy Backbone.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Ibrahim Gantsa, said Jigawa State had continued to invest in digital infrastructure and human capacity development to strengthen its digital economy.
He disclosed that the state is implementing various initiatives, including digital skills programmes, teacher training schemes and e-governance reforms supported by development partners.
According to him, about 110 civil servants have been trained under the state’s e-governance programme, while 1,000 youths are currently receiving training in Artificial Intelligence, blockchain technology and outsourcing services.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Galaxy Backbone, Prof. Ibrahim Adeyanju, said the organisation was founded on a vision to connect government institutions and position digital infrastructure as a key national asset.
He noted that over the past 20 years, Galaxy Backbone has become a major pillar in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.
Adeyanju credited the organisation’s progress to the support of the Federal Government, partner agencies and dedicated staff.
He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to innovation, improved service delivery and continuous capacity development within the digital sector.