Despite Tinubu’s Nomination, Bosun Tijani Withdraws From ITU Race

Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has withdrawn from the race for Deputy Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), despite his nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Tijani’s candidacy had positioned Nigeria for one of the most significant leadership contests within the UN specialised agency responsible for global telecommunications and digital technology cooperation.

The ITU had formally published Nigeria’s candidature for Tijani for the position of Deputy Secretary-General for the 2027–2030 term.

The development comes at a particularly significant moment for Nigeria’s engagement with the global digital institution. Tijani currently serves as Chair of the 2026 ITU Council, a position that places him at the centre of discussions shaping the Union’s strategic direction.

His international profile within the ITU has also expanded considerably in 2026. In April, he was appointed Chair of the ITU Council, while in July he joined the ITU-convened AI for Good Global Commission as a founding member.

The withdrawal therefore represents a significant change in Nigeria’s previously announced campaign for the ITU’s second-highest executive position.

Tijani’s candidacy had been viewed as part of Nigeria’s broader effort to strengthen its influence in global digital policy, artificial intelligence governance, connectivity and emerging technology regulation.

The minister has, in recent months, played an increasingly prominent role in international digital policy discussions, including work around submarine cable resilience, AI governance and the future of global digital infrastructure.

What This Means

The decision is likely to refocus attention on Nigeria’s broader strategy at the ITU, particularly ahead of the 2026 ITU Plenipotentiary Conference, where member states will make key decisions concerning the organisation’s leadership and future direction.

Tijani’s withdrawal also leaves questions around Nigeria’s next move in the leadership contest and whether the Federal Government will support another candidate for the position.

For now, the development marks an unexpected turn in a campaign that had carried considerable diplomatic and strategic significance for Nigeria’s ambitions in the global digital economy.