Lagos Council Chairmen Applaud Nigeria’s 7,000 Telecommunication Tower Plan

On Mar 10, 2025

Council chairmen in Lagos State have commended the Nigerian Government’s initiative to erect 7,000 telecommunication towers in rural areas nationwide, describing it as a significant step toward improving digital connectivity and bridging the digital divide.

The plan was announced on February 27 by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, during a meeting with Airtel executives and President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The project aims to enhance access to telecommunication services, particularly for underserved communities at the grassroots level.

Dr. Tijani reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that all Nigerians, especially those in rural areas, have meaningful access to high-quality telecommunication services.

Improved Connectivity for Economic and Social Growth

The Chairman of Badagry Local Government Area, Mr. Olusegun Onilude, described the initiative as crucial for fostering inclusive growth in border communities like Badagry.

He emphasised that improved telecommunication infrastructure would enhance seamless communication, boost economic activities, and support cross-border trade.

“This development is particularly significant for border communities like Badagry, where residents and businesses rely heavily on cross-border trade and services.

“Improved telecommunication infrastructure will not only facilitate seamless communication but also enhance access to high-quality digital services.

“This, in turn, will boost economic activities, support local enterprises, and strengthen connectivity for individuals and businesses operating across borders.

“By ensuring meaningful access to telecommunication services, this initiative will play a crucial role in fostering inclusive growth and development in Badagry division,” Onilude said.

Similarly, Ms. Surah Animashahun, Chairperson of Epe Local Government Area, hailed the initiative as a game-changer.

She pointed out that expanded network coverage would empower local businesses, facilitate e-learning, enhance security through improved communication, and generate job opportunities during and after the rollout.

“If well-coordinated, this project can bridge the digital divide and empower communities economically and socially,” Animashahun stated.

Calls for Affordability and Service Quality

While commending the Federal Government’s commitment to rural connectivity, Mr. Samson Olatunde, Chairman of Olorunda Local Council Development Area, highlighted the need to address high airtime and data tariffs.

He stressed that basic connectivity remains a luxury for many due to inconsistent service quality and high costs.

Expanding infrastructure is a great step, but the government and telecommunications providers must prioritise affordability and service quality. Our people cannot participate fully in the digital economy if they are priced out of connectivity or hindered by poor service, Olatunde urged.

Bridging the Digital Gap

Ikorodu Local Government Area Chairman, Mr. Wasiu Adesina, expressed optimism that the project would significantly bridge the digital gap and expand access to telecommunication services across Nigeria.

He noted that the initiative would also open rural areas to increased economic activities while creating job opportunities to manage and secure the new equipment.

“This is a a great development as it will improve connectivity nationwide and open up the rural areas more to economic activities.

“It will also create more jobs as the number of employment will increase to manage and secure the equipment,” Adesina remarked.

The council chairmen collectively emphasised that the success of the initiative depends on a holistic approach that ensures affordability, service quality, and stakeholder collaboration.

They expressed their readiness to work with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to achieve the project’s goals and empower their communities.

NAN