By Martin Ekpeke
Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has outlined four critical pillars to close Nigeria’s digital divide and drive sustainable progress.
In a remark he presented yesterday in Lagos at a stakeholder engagement session organized by the USPF, ITU, and UK FCDO, the Minister emphasized the need for a collaborative approach centered on community engagement, leveraging existing infrastructure, capacity building and sustainable solutions.
Dr. Tijani stressed that despite significant strides in expanding connectivity and strengthening digital infrastructure, millions of Nigerians, particularly in remote and underserved communities, remain disconnected.
He highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing this gap through initiatives like Project BRIDGE, Project 774, and the Universal Access Project, all aimed at expanding broadband penetration and ensuring digital inclusion.
However, he asserted that government efforts alone are insufficient. To achieve universal access to communications and digital literacy by 2030, the Minister called for robust partnerships across government, the private sector, development agencies, and local communities.
The four key pillars underpinning this collaborative effort are:
- Community Engagement: Understanding and addressing the unique needs of local communities to ensure digital solutions are relevant and accessible.
- Leveraging Existing Infrastructure: Maximizing the value of existing networks, public facilities, and energy sources to optimize costs and accelerate deployment.
- Capacity Building: Integrating digital literacy programs, skills training, and entrepreneurship development into infrastructure strategies.
- Sustainable Solutions: Exploring innovative business models, alternative energy solutions, and localized interventions to ensure long-term, economically and environmentally sustainable connectivity.
Dr. Tijani emphasized that by focusing on these pillars and fostering strong partnerships, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its digital economy and ensure that no one is left behind in the journey towards a digitally empowered nation