The federal government has reassured the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector of it’s readiness to bring about growth in the industry.
The Minister of Communications, Dr. Adebayo Shittu gave this assurance while addressing participants at a coalition meeting organized by Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4Ai) with the theme: Digital inclusion: opportunities and strategies for a new Nigeria Broadband Plan’
The minister expressed the Ministry’s readiness to partner with (A4Ai) to move the telecoms and ICT industry forward.
He added that the current administration is determined not only to create policies and incentives, but also to collaborate with a coalition like A4Ai to ensure universal access to broadband, and in turn, contribute to a richer and diversified economy.
Dr. Shittu added that the federal government recognizes the urgent need to increase access and usage of internet and broadband in Nigeria.
According to him the Information and Communication Technology sector has a great role to play in order to achieve the nation’s vision 20:2020 which outlines federal government’s aim to make Nigeria a top 20 global economy by year 20:2020.
He stated further that broadband development is key to stimulating growth, policy harmonization for enhancing ICT infrastructure and attracting investment.
He stressed that as a result, the Ministry of Communications will leave no stone unturned to review and revise the Nigerian Broadband Plan to revamp its advancement.
According to him, “I take this opportunity to applaud A4Ai efforts and contributions in the developments and growth of the country through this noble initiative.
“The Ministry remains resolute in support to your course to meet the goals as we continue to engage you and other stakeholders towards an effective broadband policy intervention from time to time” Shittu said.
He therefore charge the Coordinator of the meeting to make the recommendations of the meeting available to the Ministry of Communications for implementation in other to advance Broadband Penetration and affordability at the “1 and 2” target.
In his welcome address, the National Coordinator of Alliance for Affordable Internet, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, said Nigeria is leading other African countries in interconnections having met over 30% target of broadband penetration with 50% of its population having access and connection to internet services.
According to him, Nigeria is the first African country to join the A4Ai which means the country is hungry for internet, it’s also the first African country to record strong spectrum pricing and implementation breakthrough, to mention a few.
