Digital Economy: Communications Minister to begin Broadband Projects

Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Pantami, will on Thursday, November 24, 2022, in Abuja, preside over the commencement of landmark broadband initiatives to be implemented by the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, to accelerate broadband penetration in the country.

This is also to advance the course of digital economy projections for the nation.

A statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs the NCC, Reuben Muoka disclosed that the event would witness the award of contracts for the provision of broadband infrastructure for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, as well as for tertiary and higher institutions of learning across the six geopolitical zones of the country.

Professor Pantami is also billed to present a book; “Skills Rather Than Just Degrees,” authored by him, with a foreword written by Brad Smith, President, Microsoft Corporation.

The list of projects for the various geopolitical zones that are set for the launch was recently approved by the Federal Executive Council, after a presentation by the Minister.

The projects are expected to be completed within six months, from the date of the award.

Well-known tech companies have been selected through a transparent tendering process by the NCC for the implementation of strategic projects.

The event is expected to attract stakeholders from academia and technology enthusiasts, including prospective start-up companies, fintech organizations and other interested sectors whose activities are billed to energize the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), 2020-2030.

The provision of broadband infrastructure for the micro, small and medium enterprises in Nigeria, and for tertiary institutions across the six geopolitical zones of the country will facilitate the major objectives spelt out in the NDEPS.

PIAK