Hotspot advocates investment to bridge internet gap

The Chief Executive Officer of Hotspot Network Ltd, Morenikeji Aniye, has called for increased investment in satellite infrastructure to improve internet connectivity in underserved areas.

Speaking with The PUNCH at a stakeholder engagement session in Lagos, organised by the Universal Service Provision Fund in collaboration with the International Telecommunications Union and supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Aniye emphasised the need for stronger satellite capacity to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide.

“Satellite capacity is very key, and that’s why we are working on solutions to enhance connectivity,” Aniye said. “Investing in satellite technology will address deficiencies in network coverage and improve access, particularly in rural areas.”

Despite progress in mobile internet penetration, significant gaps remain.

According to the Global System for Mobile Communications, Nigeria’s rural-urban mobile internet gap narrowed from 53 per cent in 2018 to 39 per cent in 2020.

However, as of 2022, 61 per cent of Nigerians in rural areas still lacked internet access, compared to 40 per cent in urban areas. The Nigerian Communications Commission estimates the country’s internet penetration at 45.61 per cent.

To address this challenge, NIGCOMSAT Limited, Nigeria’s state-owned satellite provider, partnered with Hotspot Network Ltd last year to expand internet access in underserved communities.

The collaboration aims to leverage satellite technology to enhance digital inclusion and support economic growth.

Aniye reiterated that scaling up satellite investments would ensure seamless connectivity, empowering businesses, government agencies, and individuals to participate fully in the digital economy.