FG unveils National Broadband Alliance to accelerate internet access

The Federal Government has announced plans to implement the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN) in the first quarter of 2024, aiming to enhance broadband development and adoption in the country.

The Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, under the leadership of Dr. Bosun Tijani, outlined the plan in a white paper titled “Broadband Access for All: Introduction Deepening Nigeria’s National Backbone and Middle Mile Infrastructure.”

According to the white paper, the initiative will address challenges related to low-fibre network rollout in the country adding that the rollout plan targets seven states in the initial phase, including Edo, Ogun, Kwara, Katsina, Imo, Abia, Borno, and Nasarawa.

The document emphasizes the growing necessity for reliable and affordable Internet access, citing barriers faced by individuals and communities in navigating the interconnected world.

The National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria is designed as a collaborative endeavour involving multiple stakeholders, with the primary objective of leading initiatives for the attainment of universal broadband access across the nation.

It aims to convene pivotal participants from both the public and private sectors, alongside civil society, fostering a collaborative environment to collectively formulate enduring business models.

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“Recognizing the imperativeness of broadband in economic development, the alliance will bring together key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, as well as civil society, to collaboratively develop a sustainable business model(s) for driving the adoption and consumption of internet in key critical public institutions (schools, hospitals, government offices, libraries and markets etc) across the nation.” The document stated.

It emphasised that the Alliance aims to foster coordination among government agencies, telecommunication companies, technology providers, and civil society organizations. By streamlining processes and removing obstacles, it aims to expedite the nationwide expansion of broadband services.

“With the national desk at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the NBAN nodes hosted by sub-national governments (states) will work closely with regulatory bodies to streamline processes and remove obstacles hindering the swift deployment of broadband networks.” The Ministry stated.

It added that the initiative underscores its commitment to digital inclusion and awareness, ensuring that all segments of society benefit from broadband connectivity and participate in the digital economy.

Additionally, the ministry noted that the move supports its strategic blueprint, aimed at strengthen the digital economy with a focus on connectivity. It described the initiative as a significant step toward achieving Nigeria’s broadband penetration targets and ensuring affordable access for all, including rural and underserved areas.