NCC inaugurates National Broadband Alliance to boost digital connectivity

In a strategic move to enhance internet penetration and accelerate digital transformation, the Federal Government has officially launched the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN).

The initiative, inaugurated in Lagos on Tuesday by the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, aims to bridge the broadband gap and drive inclusive digital growth.

Dr. Maida described NBAN as a transformative step in Nigeria’s digital future, emphasizing that it is not just about broadband infrastructure but about creating a sustainable foundation for economic growth, social inclusion, and technological advancement.

Highlighting the significance of broadband in today’s digital era, Maida stated that internet connectivity is a cornerstone of national progress, capable of unlocking economic opportunities, fostering innovation, and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.

He underscored the importance of collaboration among the government, private sector, regulators, and civil society in achieving Nigeria’s digital economy goals, noting that broadband expansion faces challenges such as high costs, infrastructure vandalism, and investment barriers.

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The NBAN, he explained, would provide a structured approach to tackling these obstacles.

“The inauguration of NBAN marks a pivotal moment in ensuring broadband connectivity serves as a catalyst for job creation, innovation, and economic development,” Maida said.

Maida commended President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing technology and innovation as key pillars of Nigeria’s socio-economic development. He also acknowledged the efforts of Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, in driving broadband expansion and fostering industry-wide collaboration.

Patience Fakal, Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology in Kaduna State, described broadband as the backbone of economic growth and digital transformation.

Fakal expressed Kaduna’s eagerness to collaborate with NBAN on broadband expansion, digital literacy programs, and smart governance initiatives.

Similarly, Naufal Ahmad, Director General of the Katsina State Directorate of Information and Communications Technology, praised the initiative, noting that broadband expansion remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas.

He highlighted Katsina’s progress in connecting over 80% of government offices through a single-ring network, ensuring seamless communication between the government house, state secretariat, assembly, and courts.

The Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, which first announced the Broadband Alliance in January 2024, emphasized its role in stimulating broadband adoption in key public institutions such as: Schools; Hospitals; Government offices and Libraries and markets.

The Ministry also noted that the Alliance seeks to improve the return on investment (ROI) in Nigeria’s nationwide fiber network, tackle issues of low broadband consumption, and position Nigeria as a leader in the global digital landscape.

With the launch of the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN), the government is setting the stage for a more connected, innovative, and economically vibrant Nigeria.

The success of this initiative will depend on strategic investments, regulatory support, and widespread collaboration among stakeholders.