National Broadband Alliance is established by Tinubu government to increase internet access

Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), represented Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani during the unveiling, which was held in Lagos on Tuesday.

The remarkable rise in broadband penetration, which went from 6% in 2015 to roughly 42% by October 2024, was emphasized by Tijani.

But he emphasized that more work is required to guarantee that high-speed internet is available to all Nigerians, particularly those living in underserved areas.

To bridge the digital divide and connect rural villages, the government is implementing a 90,000 km fiber optic backbone via a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV).

Complementing the Agenda for Renewed Hope
The Minister claims that the project is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places a high value on technological advancement, innovation, and strategic cooperation as means of promoting national growth.

Tijani underlined that better internet connectivity would empower people by offering chances for education, economic expansion, and digital inclusion, especially in rural areas.

“Although the advancements in broadband adoption are praiseworthy, we acknowledge that much more work must be done to guarantee that every Nigerian can take advantage of dependable, fast internet,” Tijani said.

Strategic Alliances for the Growth of Broadband

In order to address the issues of infrastructure development and lower broadband prices, the minister emphasized the necessity of working together with donors, investors, and other important parties.

He restated the government’s broadband goals, which include: – 80% of the population having access to broadband by 2027 – 70% of the population having broadband by 2025 – a minimum internet speed of 25 Mbps in urban areas

“The private sector alone won’t be enough to accomplish these objectives. Accelerating the implementation of vital infrastructure would necessitate a comprehensive strategy that includes strategic alliances with investors, donors, and other important stakeholders, Tijani continued.