… Launches Two Books by Veteran ICT Journalist Aaron Ukodie
The 12th edition of the eWorld Forum will hold on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, under the theme: “The GSM Digital Milestones: 25 Years On.”
Since its inauguration in 2010, the eWorld Forum has established itself as one of Nigeria’s foremost platforms for dialogue on information and communications technology (ICT), bringing together policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, telecommunications operators, technology innovators, investors, academics, and other stakeholders to shape the future of Nigeria’s digital economy.
This year’s edition commemorates the 25th anniversary of Nigeria’s GSM revolution, which began with the commercial launch of GSM services in August 2001. Over the past quarter century, mobile telecommunications have transformed virtually every aspect of Nigerian life, revolutionising communication, commerce, banking, education, healthcare, governance, entertainment, and social interaction while serving as a key driver of economic growth and digital inclusion.
Participants will review the achievements of the past 25 years, assess current industry challenges, and explore future opportunities in broadband expansion, artificial intelligence, fintech, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, spectrum management, and Nigeria’s evolving digital economy.
A major highlight of the forum will be the public launch of two books authored by Aaron Ukodie, Publisher of eWorldnews, veteran ICT journalist, and Convener of the eWorld Forum.
The first book, Nigeria’s GSM Revolution at 25: The Hall of Digital Pioneers and Players, has been specially published to commemorate the silver jubilee of GSM in Nigeria. It chronicles the evolution of the country’s telecommunications industry and documents the vision, policies, investments, innovations, and outstanding contributions of the pioneers, regulators, operators, institutions, companies, and individuals whose efforts transformed Nigeria into one of Africa’s largest digital and telecommunications markets. The publication is a follow-up to Ukodie’s earlier work, Nigerian Drivers of Digital Prosperity: The Trajectory of the Digital Evolution, Sector Analysis and Players’ Contribution.
The second book, The Pilgrim Trail, is a deeply personal memoir chronicling the author’s life journey, professional experiences, Christian faith, and reflections on God’s sustaining grace. The book also recounts his remarkable recovery journey following the stroke he suffered in 2023 and how, despite ongoing physiotherapy and physical limitations affecting his right hand and right leg, he was able to complete both books. It is a powerful testimony of resilience, perseverance, hope, and divine faithfulness.
Speaking ahead of the event, Ukodie said: “I am grateful for the opportunity to document both the history of Nigeria’s GSM revolution and my personal journey in The Pilgrim Trail. These books preserve important history while bearing testimony to God’s grace and faithfulness in my life. I look forward to sharing them with the public at the forum.”
While both books will be officially launched during the forum, The Pilgrim Trail is currently available for pre-launch orders.
According to the organisers, eWorld Forum 2026 promises to be a landmark gathering that will celebrate one of Nigeria’s greatest technological success stories while preserving the history of the country’s digital transformation for future generations. The event will also honour the individuals and institutions that made the GSM revolution possible and inspire readers through an extraordinary story of faith, resilience, and triumph over adversity.
For sponsorship, partnership, pre-launch orders, or further enquiries, please contact: Aaron Ukodie, Publisher, eWorldnews/Convener, eWorld Forum on WhatsApp: 08034005016.
