The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida has assured industry stakeholders that “Together, we can build a future where digital connectivity is a fundamental right, not a privilege,” and charged them to “remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that no community is left in the digital dark”.
In the address he presented at the industry-focused stakeholder’s engagement session of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) in in collaboration with the ITU and supported by the UK FCDO in Lagos, he stressed that the theme; “Strengthening Partnership for Sustainable Telecommunication Infrastructure in the Unserved and Underserved Communities: Collaborating for Sustainable Growth,’ reflects our collective commitment to ensuring equitable access to telecommunications services for all Nigerians, especially those in unserved and underserved communities.”
He said the meeting is particularly aimed at bringing key industry stakeholders together to provide valuable insights on strategies that can be adopted to enhance USPF Interventions and serve as a feedback mechanism to build partnerships for Nigeria’s digital future.
“It goes without saying that the USPF acknowledges the crucial role of collaboration, strategic partnerships and complementary efforts to achieve sustainable development.
Additionally, the evolving telecommunications landscape necessitates innovative and collaborative approaches to ensure long-term viability in delivering connectivity to unserved and underserved populations.
On the role of the USPF in expanding access, Maida averred that “The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), through the USPF, has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at providing universal access and universal service. These efforts align with broader national and global goals, including bridging the digital divide, promoting universal access, fostering economic growth and social inclusion, and achieving Sustainable Development Goals “SDGs 4” (Quality Education) and 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure).
“Over time, the USPF has successfully implemented several projects under its access and connectivity programmes. Given the focus of this event, it is important to highlight key connectivity projects such as the deployment of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS), Backbone Transmission and Infrastructure, amongst others. This engagement serves as a vital platform to discuss practical strategies to enhance the impact of these projects through strengthened partnerships.
“Without doubt, to achieve digital inclusion, government agencies, mobile network operators, infrastructure providers, equipment manufacturers, development partners, and telecom trade groups must work closely together. It is for this reason that a multistakeholder approach is essential to:
- Explore innovative financing models to attract investment in rural telecommunications.
- Leverage emerging technologies and alternative power solutions for sustainable connectivity.
- Promote policies that incentivize collaborative participation in connectivity projects.
Call to Action
I want to use this platform today, to urge all stakeholders to take decisive steps toward strengthening partnerships. Let us harness our collective expertise, resources, and innovative capabilities to build a resilient and sustainable telecommunication infrastructure that will empower millions of Nigerians. We must remember that collaboration remains the cornerstone of sustainable development in this sector.
“Crucially, I must mention that our solutions must be tailored to address local challenges/needs and align with current realities.
