Stakeholders seek govt support for digital infrastructure expansion

Stakeholders have stressed the importance of government intervention in driving digital infrastructure expansion, citing its far-reaching implications for economic diversification, job creation, and socio-economic development.

At the recent Nigerian Peering and Interconnection Forum in Lagos, industry leaders, policymakers, and technology experts gathered to discuss strategies for enhancing digital connectivity.

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Ganiyu Oseni, Senior Adviser on Technology, Broadband & Innovation, stressed the importance of digital connectivity.

“Digital connectivity is not just a tool for communication; it is a catalyst for economic transformation.
“We are committed to supporting initiatives like ngPIF that push the boundaries of digital infrastructure and bring the benefits of connectivity to all Nigerians,” the governor said.

According to GSMA, the global body for telecommunications, Nigeria faces significant challenges in digital infrastructure, affecting internet access for approximately 120 million people.

High smartphone costs and poor connectivity, particularly in rural areas, exacerbate this issue, with only 28 per cent of rural residents using mobile internet compared to 59 per cent in urban regions.
The Chief Executive Officer of IXPN, Muhammed Rudman, underscored the need for rural connectivity to ensure that all citizens can access the digital economy.

“The government’s support is crucial for expanding internet access in underserved areas, particularly through mechanisms like the Universal Service Provision Fund,” Rudman explained.

The Chief Executive Officer of Open Access Data Centre, Ayotunde Coker,  ngPIF’s role in building a robust peering community that includes infrastructure providers, content creators, service providers, and policymakers.

“This forum has evolved into a vibrant community dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s interconnection and peering infrastructure, putting the country on the global digital map,” Coker remarked.

As Nigeria continues its digital transformation, ngPIF remains a vital platform for stakeholders to collaborate, innovate, and shape the future of the country’s internet landscape.

The  National Coordinator of ngPIF, Prof Wale Adedokun, reiterated the forum’s mission to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide, particularly between urban and rural areas. “The essence of ngPIF is to foster collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that internet resources are more accessible and affordable across Nigeria,” he stated.