Government Pushes for Digital Inclusion in Unserved Areas

Government Pushes for Digital Inclusion in Unserved Areas

The Honorable Minister of Communications, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and Digital Economy, emphasized the importance of fostering connectivity in unserved and underserved communities during a recent stakeholders' engagement session. 

The event, themed "Strengthening Partnership for Sustainable Telecommunication Infrastructure in the Unserved and Underserved Communities: Collaborating for Sustainable Growth," brought together key stakeholders, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Executive Vice Chairman of Nigerian Communications Commission, and representatives from telecommunications companies, state ICT commissioners, and international organizations ¹.

Dr. Tijani highlighted the government's vision to connect every Nigerian to the digital economy, with a focus on underserved communities. He emphasized that sustainable progress requires strong partnerships across the public and private sectors, development agencies, civil society, and local communities.

The minister also discussed the government's flagship initiatives, such as Project BRIDGE, Project 774, and the Universal Access Project, aimed at bridging the digital divide and unlocking digital opportunities for millions of Nigerians. Specifically, the Universal Access Project targets connecting over 20 million Nigerians who have no access to digital services, promoting digital inclusion and economic growth ¹.

Furthermore, Dr. Tijani outlined the government's strategic plan, focusing on five key pillars: knowledge, policy, infrastructure, innovation, and trade. Initiatives such as training three million tech talents and increasing digital literacy to 70% by 2027 are also underway ¹.

The Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Aminu Maida, echoed the importance of strategic collaboration and complementary efforts to achieve sustainable development. He emphasized the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to ensure digital inclusion and broadband connectivity for all .