The federal government and state governors have held discussions aimed at addressing the challenges hindering broadband penetration across Nigeria. The meeting, part of the Broadband Technical Awareness Forum for Governors, focused on strategies to establish State Broadband Coordinating Councils and enhance broadband access at the subnational level.
Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ibrahim Pantami, who spoke via hologram, emphasized the importance of resolving issues like multiple taxes and right of way to enable more effective broadband deployment. He highlighted that achieving the national broadband penetration target requires full cooperation with state governments.
Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), emphasized that broadband infrastructure is vital for transforming sectors such as education, ensuring equitable internet access for students, and empowering citizens.
Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki echoed these sentiments, stating that improved broadband access would foster a smarter, more transparent governance system, significantly reducing the cost of governance and enabling more efficient public administration.