Panelists at ngPIF Emphasize Need for a Robust Digital Infrastructure Ecosystem

An engaging second panel discussion was held on Day 2 of the Nigerian Peering & Interconnection Forum (ngPIF). Industry stalwarts delved deep into the complexities and promises of “Building a Robust Digital Infrastructure Ecosystem: Success Stories and Challenges.” 

The session featured insights from Funke Opeke, the Managing Director of MainOne; Johnson Agogbua, CEO of Kasi Cloud Datacenters; Josephine Sarouk, MD of Bayobab Nigeria; and Darren Bedford, Group Chief Development Officer, WIOCC, represented by Nikki Popoola, Sales Director at WIOCC.

Dewole Ajao, Global Network Acquisition expert from Google, skillfully moderated the conversation, extracting valuable insights from each ngPIF panelists.

Johnson Agogbua, CEO of Kasi Cloud Datacenters, opened the dialogue, shedding light on the intricate landscape of digital infrastructure in Nigeria. He eloquently emphasized, “Nigeria is a difficult but immensely rewarding market… punching above its weight, with almost 30% of internet traffic in Africa.” Agogbua pinpointed the challenges, including power supply and economic policies, stressing the need for streamlined processes. 

He noted, “Digital infrastructure costs money,” highlighting the importance of stable economic policies for investors.

Funke Opeke, the Managing Director of MainOne, provided valuable insights into the regulatory hurdles faced in Nigeria compared to smaller markets. 

She remarked, “Dealing with government for permits, licenses, and regulations has its challenges.” 

Opeke passionately advocated for a unified digital network, envisioning, “a robust shared digital network fibre that cuts across every local government, every community, across the country.” 

Her vision highlighted open access, shared costs, and shared operations, emphasizing inclusivity and comprehensive connectivity.

Josephine Sarouk, the MD of Bayobab Nigeria, highlighted the keyrole of partnerships between the private sector and the government. She stated, “We can’t do it without partnerships,” emphasizing the need for collaboration. Sarouk stressed uniformity in rights of way, advocating for consistent policies across states. Her fervent plea was to transform digital infrastructure into government assets, ensuring protection against vandalism and bolstering the security of vital fibre routes.

Nikki Popoola, the Sales Director at WIOCC, echoed the sentiments of partnership and accessibility. She emphasized the importance of affordable internet services, asserting, “It needs to be cost-effective… if it’s not affordable, what’s the point?” Popoola shared her dream, aiming to replicate South Africa’s success in Nigeria. Her vision encompassed collaboration and standardized infrastructure development, creating an inclusive digital landscape.

The panel discussion illuminated the challenges and aspirations within Nigeria’s digital infrastructure sphere. Each ngPIF panelists emphasized the urgency and determination in the sector. 

Their shared vision revolved around streamlined regulations, standardized processes, and collaborative efforts between public and private sectors. Their collective mission? 

To transform Nigeria into a digitally connected powerhouse, where opportunities are boundless and inclusivity is paramount.