Strategic partnerships key to expanding digital connectivity—Dr. Maida

The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has emphasized the critical role of strategic partnerships in achieving sustainable digital connectivity in Nigeria.

Speaking at the Industry-Focused Stakeholder’s Engagement Session of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), Dr. Maida highlighted the importance of collaboration between government agencies, telecom operators, infrastructure providers, and development partners in bridging the digital divide.

Dr. Maida outlined the USPF’s significant contributions to expanding digital connectivity, citing the deployment of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) and Backbone Transmission and Infrastructure projects as key milestones.

These efforts align with Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

“Over time, the USPF has successfully implemented several projects under its access and connectivity programs,” he noted. “Key initiatives have played a pivotal role in extending telecommunication services to underserved areas, ensuring that more Nigerians have access to digital opportunities.”

The Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, joined Dr. Maida in stressing that bridging the digital divide requires collective action beyond government intervention.

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“Sustainable and impactful progress requires strong partnerships across the public and private sectors, development agencies, civil society, and local communities,” Dr. Tijani stressed.

Dr. Maida reinforced this call to action, urging stakeholders to explore innovative financing models to attract investments in rural telecommunications. He also highlighted the need for alternative power solutions to enhance connectivity in remote areas where electricity remains a challenge.

“I want to use this platform today to urge all stakeholders to harness our collective expertise, resources, and innovative capabilities to build a resilient and sustainable telecommunication infrastructure that will empower millions of Nigerians,” he stated.

Expressing confidence in the impact of the engagement session, Dr. Maida emphasized that the discussions would lead to actionable solutions driving progress, economic development, and improved digital access in Nigeria’s most remote communities.

“I am confident that the deliberations from this engagement will lead to actionable solutions that will drive progress, foster economic development, and transform lives through connectivity in the most remote corners of our nation,” he added.

As Nigeria pushes forward toward its goal of universal digital access by 2030, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that no community is left behind in the country’s digital transformation journey.

“We have the vision, the policy framework, and the will to connect every Nigerian to the digital economy. But we need your partnership to explore innovative ways to deliver on our plans,” Dr. Tijani urged.

Dr. Maida echoed this call, stating, “Together, we can build a future where digital connectivity is a fundamental right, not a privilege. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that no community is left in the digital dark.”

The engagement session concluded with a renewed sense of urgency to implement policies and strategies that will accelerate Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

Stakeholders were encouraged to take decisive action in strengthening infrastructure, expanding network coverage, and fostering a digitally inclusive economy that will drive innovation, create jobs, and enhance the overall quality of life for millions of Nigerians.