The Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) has strengthened its collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (UK FCDO) to expand rural connectivity in Nigeria.
Speaking at an industry-focused stakeholders’ engagement in Lagos over the weekend, USPF Secretary, Mr. Yomi Arowosafe, commended both organizations for their support in bridging Nigeria’s digital divide. The event, organized by the USPF in collaboration with the UK FCDO and ITU, aimed to accelerate digital inclusion in unserved and underserved communities across the country.
The gathering attracted key industry players, including the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; the Permanent Secretary, Faruk Yabo; the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida; telecom executives, state ICT commissioners, and development partners.
Dr. Tijani reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to advancing digital connectivity as a driver of socio-economic development, while Dr. Maida assured continued regulatory support for USPF projects to fast-track digital infrastructure deployment.
Arowosafe highlighted the theme of the event, “Fostering Connectivity in Unserved and Underserved Communities: Collaborating for Sustainable Growth”, as a reflection of the government’s dedication to digital inclusion. He stressed that achieving universal connectivity requires strong partnerships between the government, private sector, NGOs, and community leaders.
USPF
The USPF Secretary also noted that stakeholder input was gathered before the session, helping shape discussions on key strategies, including funding mechanisms and capacity building for sustainable connectivity.
“This event marks the beginning of a collective journey toward a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous Nigeria,” Arowosafe stated, encouraging continued collaboration to improve access to telecommunications in rural areas.
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