FG launches National Broadband Alliance to boost internet connectivity in Nigeria  

The initiative aims to accelerate the country’s digital growth and bridge the existing broadband gap.

The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, inaugurated the NBAN in Lagos on Tuesday.

He described the alliance as a transformative step forward in Nigeria’s digital future, emphasizing that it goes beyond building broadband infrastructure to creating a foundation for sustainable growth, social inclusion, and economic transformation.

Maida stated that broadband is not merely a communication tool but a cornerstone of progress in an increasingly digital world.

He also acknowledged the dedication of the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Mr. Bosun Tijani, to fostering collaboration for the greater good.

Maida further commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to positioning technology and innovation as pillars of Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

In her remarks, the Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology in Kaduna State, Patience Fakal, described broadband connectivity as the backbone of economic growth, innovation, and inclusion. She hailed the inauguration of NBAN as a key initiative in driving digital transformation across Nigeria.

“Kaduna State has established a new technology city, an emerging smart city designed to foster digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation. 

“It has also developed the Kaduna Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre, a first-of-its-kind initiative among Nigerian states to empower youth in ICT-driven enterprises, “Fakal said.

Fakal expressed Kaduna State’s eagerness to collaborate with NBAN to further its broadband expansion, digital literacy programs, and smart governance initiatives.

Similarly, the Director General of the Katsina State Directorate of Information and Communications Technology, Naufal Ahmad, expressed his support for the inauguration of NBAN.

He noted that the alliance would help address the challenges of broadband expansion in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas.

Ahmad shared Katsina State’s experience in connecting over 80% of government offices within the government seat, including the government house, state secretariat, state assembly, and courts, through a single-ring network.

The Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy first announced the creation of the Broadband Alliance in January last year to stimulate adoption and consumption in key public institutions.

It added that the Alliance was also created to foster collaboration for broadband development and adoption, as well as to position Nigeria at the forefront of the global digital landscape.

It added that the Alliance was also created to foster collaboration for broadband development and adoption, as well as to position Nigeria at the forefront of the global digital landscape.