The Ministry of Information and Communications Technology has confirmed the appointment of Mr. Lume Polume as Chief Executive Officer of the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA).
Acting Minister Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr. announced that Mr. Polume will serve a four-year term, effective 28 January 2026. “These appointments reaffirm the Government’s commitment to strengthening leadership, governance, and performance within NICTA as it continues to play a central role in delivering accessible, affordable, and reliable ICT services across Papua New Guinea,” the Minister stated.
Mr. Polume steps into the role after serving three months in an acting capacity, succeeding Mr. Kila Gulo Vui. With over 20 years of experience in regulatory economics and telecommunications policy, he has held senior roles at the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission and Telikom PNG. He is also a graduate of the University of Queensland under the Australia Awards program, holding a Master’s Degree in Economics.
In a separate appointment, Mr. Charlie Gilichibi has been confirmed as a Non-Executive Director of the NICTA Board for four years, replacing Mr. John Cholai. His appointment is expected to strengthen governance and accountability within the Authority.
NICTA Board Chairman Mr. Brian Riches welcomed both appointments, expressing confidence in their leadership and noting the Board looks forward to guiding the Authority through reforms and advancing Papua New Guinea’s digital transformation agenda.
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