NCC, FG list options to boost Nigeria’s digital connectivity, inclusion
By Emma Ogbuehi
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged government agencies, mobile network operators, infrastructure providers, equipment manufacturers, development partners, and telecom trade groups to collaborate closely to achieve digital inclusion across the nation.
Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, who made the call at the Industry-Focused Stakeholders’ Engagement Session of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) held in Lagos, stressed that the evolving telecommunications landscape necessitates innovative and collaborative approaches to ensure long-term viability in delivering connectivity to unserved and underserved populations.
To this extent, Maida noted that the NCC, through the USPF, has been leading initiatives to provide universal access and service, aligning with national and global goals, including bridging the digital divide, promoting universal access, fostering economic growth, and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 (Quality Education) and 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
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According to him, the USPF has successfully implemented projects under its access and connectivity programs, including the deployment of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) and Backbone Transmission and Infrastructure.
Dr. Maida said the engagement provided a platform to discuss strategies to enhance the impact of these projects through strengthened partnerships.
“To achieve digital inclusion, government agencies, mobile network operators, infrastructure providers, equipment manufacturers, development partners, and telecom trade groups must work closely together,” he said.
“A multi-stakeholder approach is essential to: Explore innovative financing models to attract investment in rural telecommunications; Leverage emerging technologies and alternative power solutions for sustainable connectivity and Promote policies that incentivize collaborative participation in connectivity projects.”
He called on all stakeholders to strengthen partnerships. “Let us harness our collective expertise, resources, and innovative capabilities to build a resilient and sustainable telecommunication infrastructure that will empower millions of Nigerians. We must remember that collaboration remains the cornerstone of sustainable development in this sector.”
In his remarks, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, stated that over the last 25 years, Nigeria has made significant strides in expanding connectivity and strengthening its digital technology infrastructure. He stressed that in recent years, broadband penetration has been growing significantly, bringing millions more Nigerians online and enabling new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital inclusion.
Despite the expansion, the Minister noted that there are still millions of Nigerians on the fringes of digital transformation who are yet to have access to reliable connectivity.
“Many communities—particularly rural areas—face significant barriers, including inadequate infrastructure and limited digital literacy. These gaps not only hinder personal and business growth but also limit the full potential of Nigeria’s digital economy”, he said. According to Tijani, USPF has been a critical instrument in the Federal Government’s mission to extend connectivity to these communities, adding; “By supporting infrastructure expansion, fostering local innovation, and driving inclusive policies, the USPF aligns with the His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR)’s goal of enabling meaningful and affordable connectivity for all Nigerians”.
The session aimed to gather key industry stakeholders to provide insights on strategies to enhance USPF interventions and foster partnerships for Nigeria’s digital future.
