Nigeria initiates a project to boost broadband adoption

The Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy in Nigeria has launched the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN). The alliance aims to promote collaboration in the development and implementation of broadband, positioning Nigeria at the forefront of the global digital economy.

Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Nigerian Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy conveyed this project’s details in an extensive report shared on his LinkedIn profile. He emphasised the Ministry’s focus on connectivity as a significant aspect of fortifying Nigeria’s digital economy, as highlighted by its strategic blueprint’s infrastructure pillar.

As Dr. Bosun put it, “the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria will come together to achieve universal broadband accessibility across the country.”

He acknowledged the relevance of broadband in stimulating economic development and stated that the alliance would engage key public and private sector stakeholders, as well as civil society, to devise long-term business models to facilitate internet adoption and usage in significant public institutions across the country.

According to Dr. Bosun, the initiative will also foster digital inclusion and raise awareness, ensuring comprehensive societal involvement in the digital economy and the benefits of broadband access.

Seven states are expected to commence this project by the end of the first quarter of 2024.

The minister also informed that the alliance would advocate the execution of a new national fibre rollout, which can positively reap rewards for crucial Nigerian economic sectors.

As per the minister, a national fibre optic rollout could connect remote communities and schools to the internet, enhance healthcare accessibility, foster financial inclusion, stimulate the growth of online businesses, e-commerce platforms and digital service providers, create new job opportunities, spur entrepreneurial endeavours, and solidify governance and transparency.