The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced a new partnership with the Association for Progressive Communications (APC) and other stakeholders to develop a policy agenda aimed at expanding rural internet access through sustainable, community-driven solutions.
This is contained in a Press Statement seen by Techparley on Friday, titled: NCC, Stakeholders Tackle Rural Connectivity Challenges, and signed by Nnenna Ukoha, the body’s Ag. Head, Public Affairs.
According to the statement, a key milestone in this effort was a two-day high-level workshop held in Abuja, which brought together regulators, technical experts, and stakeholders to design a regulatory framework supporting community network growth in underserved areas.
What you should know: The initiative seeks to harness the transformative potential of inclusive connectivity, fostering collaboration among government agencies, financial institutions, civil society, and potential investors.
By promoting community-led solutions, the NCC and its partners aim to bridge the digital divide and unlock opportunities for economic and social development in Nigeria’s unserved and underserved regions.
The significance of the workshop
NCC Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida emphasized the workshop’s importance in harnessing diverse expertise to address critical challenges.
“This workshop is an opportunity for all of us to harness the expertise, insights, and experiences of diverse stakeholders present here to address the critical challenges such as affordable devices, access, licensing, spectrum allocation, infrastructure development, sustainability, and institutional monitoring,” Maida stated.
What Does This Mean for Nigerians?
- New economic opportunities: Participation in the digital economy and access to new markets.
- Improved access to services: Easier access to healthcare, education, and financial services.
- Enhanced quality of life: Access to digital services and information.
- Digital inclusion: Bridging the digital divide for more Nigerians.
- Promising future: A more digitally inclusive future with opportunities for growth.
How Can Nigeria Tackle Connectivity Challenges?
Collaborative Policy Framework: The NCC can work with stakeholders to develop a policy framework that enables community networks. This framework can address challenges such as infrastructure development, sustainability, and institutional monitoring.
Community-Led Initiatives: Empowering local communities to take ownership of their connectivity needs can be an effective approach. This can involve supporting community-led initiatives, providing training and capacity-building programs.
Digital Literacy and Education: Promoting digital literacy and education can help increase adoption and utilization of digital services. This can be achieved through initiatives such as online learning platforms, digital skills training programs, and awareness campaigns.
