2 Years in Office: Reflecting on Suleiman Isah’s Giant Strides as Niger State Commissioner

By Michael Adeshina

August 2025 marked a significant milestone for Suleiman Isah. Exactly two years earlier, he took office as the first-ever Commissioner for Communications Technology and Digital Economy in Niger State, a newly established and untested ministry. What might have been a slow beginning quickly transformed into a story of ambition, innovation, and tangible progress under his leadership.

From the moment he assumed office in August 2023, Isah demonstrated a clear sense of purpose: to harness technology as both a tool for inclusion and a catalyst for economic transformation. One of his earliest significant initiatives was championing the state’s unified effort to harmonise data collection in October 2023, during which he convened stakeholders across government to prioritise accurate, shared data as a foundation for development. This was not a routine bureaucratic meeting; it was a strategic rallying point that underscored his understanding that good governance must first be built on reliable information.

By early 2024, the ministry under his guidance had begun establishing sector-wide standards. In March 2024, Niger State took a significant step by waiving the Right of Way charge for fibre optics, a bold policy aimed to encourage private broadband investment and enhance digital connectivity across the state. This decision demonstrated a commitment to creating a more friendly environment for communication infrastructure and removing longstanding financial barriers that often hinder telecom expansion.

That same year, Isah also garnered attention for his proactive leadership in safeguarding critical telecommunications infrastructure. In February 2024, in direct response to rising incidents of vandalism, he collaborated with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards attacks on telecom facilities, emphasising public safety as essential for the smooth delivery of digital services.

But his impact was not just in infrastructure and policy. One of the most direct ways Isah improved the lives of citizens was through technology-enabled public services. In April 2024, the ministry donated vital passport-processing equipment to the Nigerian Immigration Service in Niger State. This strategic contribution was more than ceremonial; it significantly reduced waiting times and eased the passport acquisition process, a relief especially for those travelling for the Hajj pilgrimage.

Under his leadership, digital literacy became more than just a talking point; it became a movement. In March 2024, the ministry partnered with Tech4Dev to launch free digital skills training and Microsoft certification opportunities for Nigerlites, including youth and civil servants, paving the way for globally recognised credentials that boost employability and digital confidence.

Throughout 2024 and into 2025, Isah also expanded his focus beyond national borders. His participation at the 11th National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy in January 2024 saw him and his team advocate for nationwide tech reforms, such as increased broadband coverage and the waiver of RightofWay fees, with policy positions hinting at reforms soon to be adopted locally.

His vision continued to develop in 2025 with new initiatives. In March of that year, he led a delegation to the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to explore how space science and technology — including climate monitoring and precision agriculture tools — could be utilised for socioeconomic growth in his state.

Two achievements from 2025 stand out not only for their symbolism but also for the affirmation they provided to his leadership. On 6th March 2025, Niger State was honoured with a National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria Award in recognition of its commitment to expanding inclusive connectivity, an award he presented on behalf of the state, signalling its leadership in Nigeria’s broadband agenda.

Shortly thereafter, on 23rd May 2025, he was recognised as one of Nigeria’s 50 Most Valuable Digital Economy Leaders by IT Edge News Africa, a tribute to his role as what media described as the “Architect of Niger State’s Digital Renaissance.” Reports highlighted his efforts to simplify civil service recruitment through AI‑monitored remote examinations and the abolition of fibre Right‑of‑Way charges, making the state much more attractive to tech investors.

What makes Isah’s two-year journey unique is the blend of technical knowledge and human-centred thinking. Whether it’s providing digital certification opportunities for young people, improving passport services, or collaborating with national agencies to explore innovative technologies, he remains committed to a simple yet powerful principle: technology should bring dignity, opportunity, and efficiency to daily life.

As August 2025 marked the end of the second chapter of his tenure, Suleiman Isah’s legacy as commissioner was already clear: he did not merely implement policies but created momentum. He did not just shape systems but empowered people. In a world where digital futures are rapidly emerging, his time in office has positioned Niger State with preparedness, resilience, and hope.