The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has declared a renewed commitment to bridging the country’s growing digital divide — especially in remote and underserved communities.
Speaking at a two-day stakeholders’ workshop held in Abuja from June 3 to 4, the Commission stressed that “every Nigerian must be connected,” making it clear that rural connectivity is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for national development.
The workshop, organised in collaboration with the Association for Progressive Communications (APC) and other key institutions, brought together policy experts, community leaders, technical professionals, and potential investors. The goal was simple: to find workable, sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s rural network challenges.
Representing the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Abraham Oshadami, described the forum as a critical step in “reshaping Nigeria’s digital future.” He noted that the event was designed to unlock policy and funding opportunities that can power community-led networks in rural regions.
“This workshop is a catalyst for meaningful change,” Maida said in his speech. “We are here to find lasting solutions to issues like device affordability, licensing hurdles, infrastructure gaps, and spectrum access — all of which directly affect millions of Nigerians living in rural areas.”
The focus, according to Maida, is not just on connectivity but on sustainable connectivity. “We are committed to a future where everyone, regardless of their location or status, has equal access to the opportunities made possible through digital technology,” he added.
Kathleen Diga, co-manager of APC’s Local Network initiative, added weight to the conversation by highlighting the power of “bottom-up” solutions. She called for recognition of small, local digital enterprises as key players in closing the digital gap. “These community networks are not only growing across the global south — they are a smart response to digital exclusion,” she said.
Also present at the event were representatives from the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and other development partners. They all echoed the urgent need for collaboration in building inclusive digital infrastructure powered by renewable energy and smart financing.
The workshop ended with a united call to action: government regulators, community stakeholders, and international partners must come together to break down policy barriers and enable a truly connected Nigeria — from the cities to the most remote villages.
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