Nigeria Shifts Focus to Meaningful Digital Connectivity Drive

The Federal Government has said it is redirecting its digital economy strategy towards achieving “meaningful connectivity” aimed at deepening inclusion and driving economic growth across the country.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, made this known on Friday in Abuja during the inauguration of board members of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF).

Tijani explained that while Nigeria has recorded significant progress in expanding access to telecommunications since the introduction of GSM services, millions of Nigerians—particularly in rural and underserved communities—still lack access to reliable and usable digital services.

He said the government’s new focus goes beyond simply connecting communities, stressing that digital access must translate into real-world benefits such as improved education, business opportunities, healthcare delivery, and overall economic participation.

According to him, ongoing investments include plans to deploy about 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic infrastructure and nearly 4,000 telecommunications towers nationwide to strengthen connectivity and bridge existing gaps.

Tijani noted that initiatives under the Universal Service Provision Fund have already supported rural connectivity projects and the provision of digital facilities in schools, but emphasized that the next phase must prioritise effective utilisation of these services.

He cited a pilot project in the Kura community, where improved connectivity has enhanced access to communication, education, and healthcare services, as an example of the impact of meaningful connectivity.

Also speaking at the event, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Aminu Maida, called for stronger efforts to bridge the digital divide, noting that while telecom usage has grown significantly—by about 160% over the past two years—growth remains largely concentrated in urban areas.

Maida warned that the disparity between urban and rural connectivity continues to widen, urging the USPF board to intensify interventions that address both access and usage gaps.

Both officials underscored the importance of collaboration, digital literacy, and sustainable investment models to ensure that increased connectivity translates into meaningful socio-economic benefits for Nigerians.