FG LAUNCHES NATIONAL BROADBAND ALLIANCE TO BOOST INTERNET ACCESS
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The Federal Government has launched the National Broadband Alliance (NBAN), a new initiative designed to transform the nation’s digital infrastructure and enhance connectivity nationwide.
The announcement was made on Tuesday in Lagos by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, who was represented by Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission.
In his address, Tijani highlighted that NBAN would play a crucial role in improving broadband penetration, which has increased from 6 percent in 2015 to nearly 42 percent as of October 2024.
To support this effort, the government is utilizing a Special Purpose Vehicle to deploy 90,000 km of fibre backbone throughout the country, aiming to provide high-speed internet access to underserved and rural communities.
Tijani emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes innovation, technology, and collaboration as essential elements for national progress.
He added that the expansion would not only improve broadband access but also empower Nigerians, especially in rural areas.
“While the progress made in broadband penetration is commendable, we recognise that much more needs to be done to ensure every Nigerian can enjoy the benefits of reliable, high-speed internet,” Tijani said.
The minister also stressed the importance of building strategic partnerships with donors, investors, and other key stakeholders to achieve the objectives outlined in the National Broadband Plan (2020–2025).
He noted that these collaborations will play a crucial role in addressing infrastructure development challenges and ensuring that broadband becomes affordable and accessible to all Nigerians.
“These targets reflect our unwavering commitment to ensuring that broadband is accessible, affordable, and inclusive for all Nigerians. However, we are also aware of the challenges ahead.
Tijani stressed that achieving the government’s targets—70 per cent broadband penetration by 2025, a minimum internet speed of 25 Mbps in urban areas, and broadband access for 80 per cent of the population by 2027—will require sustained efforts.
“Achieving these goals will require more than just the efforts of the private sector. It will require a holistic approach that includes strategic partnerships with donors, investors, and other key stakeholders in accelerating the rollout of critical infrastructure,” he added.
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