Turner Timinipre Isoun, a former Nigerian minister of Science and Technology, passed away at 87, leaving behind a legacy that transformed the country's digital landscape.His policies during the Obasanjo administration laid the groundwork for Nigeria's mobile phone revolution and digital economy.As minister from 2000 to 2007, Isoun championed ICT policies that created the infrastructure for widespread mobile communication.

His establishment of NITDA (National Information Technology Development Agency) and initiatives like Galaxy Backbone were pivotal in making digital services accessible to millions.These efforts enabled Nigeria to become Africa's largest telecom market with over 188 million mobile subscriptions.Isoun's work reduced transaction costs, connected businesses to customers, and spurred innovations like mobile banking.His contributions extended beyond telecom, including support for Nigeria's space programs.

His death has renewed focus on how early policy decisions shaped Nigeria's economic trajectory, highlighting the importance of technology as a driver for national development.