In a significant move to advance Nigeria’s digital economy, the federal government, through the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, officially launched the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN) in Lagos. This initiative aims to enhance infrastructure development and increase broadband access, bringing the country closer to achieving its goal of a digitally connected nation.
At the launch, Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, represented by Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), highlighted that NBAN would encourage collaboration and further broadband penetration in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The agenda focuses on leveraging technology and innovation as key drivers for prosperity in Nigeria.
The minister noted that broadband penetration has significantly increased from just 6% in 2015 to approximately 42% by October 2024. However, despite the progress, the government recognizes the need for greater access to broadband across Nigeria, especially in underserved and unserved areas. The aim is to reach 70% broadband penetration by 2025 and expand coverage to 80% of the population by 2027.
Tijani also addressed the paradox of underutilized broadband networks. He pointed out that many regions in the country have an abundance of unused fibre infrastructure due to inadequate access to necessary infrastructure, barriers to adoption, and issues such as limited device access and power supply challenges. He emphasized that breaking this cycle is critical to realizing the full potential of broadband and its contribution to Nigeria’s digital economy.
NBAN seeks to transform broadband into a catalyst for socio-economic development by aggregating demand across various sectors, including education, healthcare, religious centers, and markets. This will create a sustainable, economically viable model for broadband adoption, reduce costs, and enhance accessibility for all Nigerians.
Dr. Aminu Maida reinforced the importance of NBAN, stressing that it will address key challenges hindering broadband expansion and unlock the vast potential of connectivity for the nation’s development.
Patience Fakal, Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology in Kaduna State, echoed these sentiments, describing broadband connectivity as the backbone of economic growth and innovation. She expressed strong support for the NBAN initiative, noting that it would significantly enhance governance, service delivery, and citizens’ lives in the state.
The launch event included a panel session moderated by Mr. Bismarck Rewane, CEO of Financial Derivatives Company, which discussed the challenges and opportunities for creating a connected Nigeria.