The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), through the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at providing universal access and universal service.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the executive vice chairman /CEO of the NCC, stated this on Thursday at the Industry-focused Stakeholder’s Engagement Session of the USPF held in Lagos in collaboration with the ITU and supported by the UK FCDO.
The EVC said these efforts align with broader national and global goals, including bridging the digital divide, promoting universal access, fostering economic growth and social inclusion, and achieving Sustainable Development Goals “SDGs 4” (Quality Education) and 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure).
In his words,
“Over time, the USPF has successfully implemented several projects under its access and connectivity programmes. Given the focus of this event, it is important to highlight key connectivity projects such as the deployment of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS), Backbone Transmission and Infrastructure, amongst others. This engagement serves as a vital platform to discuss practical strategies to enhance the impact of these projects through strengthened partnerships.
“Without doubt, to achieve digital inclusion, government agencies, mobile network operators, infrastructure providers, equipment manufacturers, development partners, and telecom trade groups must work closely together”.
Dr. Maida said it is for this reason that a multi- stakeholder approach is essential to explore innovative financing models to attract investment in rural telecommunications; leverage emerging technologies and alternative power solutions for sustainable connectivity and promote policies that incentivize collaborative participation in connectivity projects.
Maida Calls Stakeholders to Action
The EVC said that the engagement, themed: ‘Strengthening Partnership for Sustainable Telecommunication Infrastructure in the Unserved and Underserved Communities: Collaborating for Sustainable Growth,’ reflects the Commission’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to telecommunications services for all Nigerians, especially those in unserved and underserved communities.
He therefore, urged all stakeholders to take decisive steps toward strengthening partnerships and innovations tailored to address local challenges/needs and align with current realities.
“Let us harness our collective expertise, resources, and innovative capabilities to build a resilient and sustainable telecommunication infrastructure that will empower millions of Nigerians. We must remember that collaboration remains the cornerstone of sustainable development in this sector”, he said.
