In today’s interconnected world, digital connectivity has become the lifeblood of economic growth. Nowhere is this more evident than in Nigeria, where telecommunications have evolved from a supporting utility to critical national infrastructure.
Mr. Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, emphasized the importance of reliable telecommunications and data services during the National Civil Society Dialogue on Telecommunication and Data Service Provisions in Nigeria. The event, themed ‘Upscaling Telecommunication and Data Services for Enhanced Microeconomic and GDP Growth,’ highlighted how digital connectivity is reshaping Nigeria’s economic landscape.
Connectivity as the New Economic Engine
Every sector of Nigeria’s economy now depends on connectivity. Farmers access market information through their mobile devices, small businesses transact through digital platforms, and students learn online. Hospitals rely on digital communications, and government services are migrating to digital channels.
‘The issue before us is not merely about technology but economic opportunity, national productivity, social inclusion, and the future competitiveness of Nigeria as a country,’ Dare stated. He emphasized that increased broadband connectivity would expand economic participation, innovation, productivity gains, and job creation.
However, Dare stressed that subscriber growth must be matched by improved quality of service. ‘The quality of services experienced by citizens must improve at the same pace as investment and expansion,’ he noted. He called for operators to increase investment in network optimization, fiber deployment, and rural coverage, and to make customer service more responsive and efficient.
The Role of Infrastructure and Innovation
Dare also highlighted the need for infrastructure sharing among operators and stronger protection of telecommunications infrastructure from vandalism and theft. He pointed out that the rollout of 5G would create new opportunities in smart agriculture, industrial automation, telemedicine, smart cities, and advanced logistics.
Collaboration among government, regulators, operators, development partners, and civil society organizations is crucial for expanding affordable connectivity to underserved communities. ‘Let us move beyond assigning blames. Let us move on to building solutions,’ Dare urged.
Mr. Odoyemi Ogohi, Director of Technical Standards and Network Integrity at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), welcomed public scrutiny and constructive dialogue on telecommunications services. He noted that the NCC is committed to using evidence to assess network performance and address consumer complaints.
Ogohi disclosed that Nigeria has 192 million active telecommunications users as of June, with broadband penetration standing at 56.7 percent. Nigerians consumed 8.51 million terabytes of data between January and June, with usage increasing monthly. He acknowledged the gap between network experience in rural and urban areas, stating that the commission has shifted towards measuring service quality at local levels.
The Consumer Perspective
Amb. Blessing Akinsolotu, Executive Director of the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria, raised concerns over poor telecommunications services, arbitrary deductions, and other consumer-related complaints. He expressed confidence that the resolutions from the dialogue would be communicated to relevant stakeholders for further action.
As Nigeria continues to embrace digital transformation, the focus on improving telecommunications and data services will be pivotal in driving economic growth and social inclusion. The dialogue underscored the need for collaborative efforts to address challenges and leverage opportunities in the digital age.
