The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to bridging Nigeria’s digital divide, emphasizing the need for strong collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure universal connectivity. Speaking at an Industry Stakeholders Session on digital connectivity in underserved areas, Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, highlighted key government initiatives aimed at expanding broadband access across the country.
Dr. Tijani noted that while Nigeria has made significant progress in digital infrastructure over the past 25 years, millions of citizens, particularly in rural areas, still lack reliable internet access. “These gaps not only hinder personal and business growth but also limit the full potential of Nigeria’s digital economy,” he said.
He outlined several flagship projects designed to close this gap, including Project BRIDGE, a 90,000km fiber optic expansion; Project 774, which connects local government secretariats; and the Universal Access Project, which aims to bring digital services to 20 million Nigerians. Other initiatives include the National Broadband Alliance of Nigeria (NBAN) and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program.
Dr. Tijani stressed that achieving full digital inclusion requires more than just infrastructure development. “Sustainable and impactful progress requires strong partnerships across the public and private sectors, development agencies, civil society, and local communities,” he stated. He further identified four key pillars for success: community engagement, leveraging existing infrastructure, capacity building, and sustainable solutions.
Echoing the minister’s call for collaboration, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, reaffirmed the role of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) in expanding connectivity. He emphasized that multi-stakeholder cooperation is essential to achieving digital inclusion.
“The USPF has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at providing universal access, bridging the digital divide, and promoting social inclusion,” Dr. Maida said. He noted that the fund has implemented projects such as the deployment of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) and Backbone Transmission Infrastructure to enhance connectivity in underserved areas.
Dr. Maida highlighted the need for innovative financing models, the adoption of emerging technologies, and policy incentives to attract investment in rural telecommunications. “Collaboration remains the cornerstone of sustainable development in this sector,” he stressed.
The NCC boss called on stakeholders to take decisive steps in strengthening 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,” he urged.
Both officials concluded by reaffirming the government’s dedication to achieving universal access to digital services by 2030. They called for continuous engagement with industry players to explore new strategies that will accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation and ensure that no community is left behind.