The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its dedicated commitment to leveraging its full mandate to deliver Nigeria broadband expansion to underserved communities.
The Commission stated that this mission remains central to the Federal Government’s broader efforts to improve access to the opportunities that robust connectivity can unlock.
This position was reiterated during a formal courtesy visit by the Executive Commissioner of Stakeholder Management at the NCC, Ms. Rimini Makama, to the Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang.
Speaking at the Government House in Jos, Ms. Makama described the state as a strategic partner in the advancement of the national digital infrastructure agenda.
Strategic Partnership for Digital Growth
The NCC highlighted Plateau State’s strong educational base and its growing innovation ecosystem as key drivers for this collaboration. Ms. Makama noted that the state’s youthful population and clear policy direction are essential for successful digital transformation.
“The NCC has identified Plateau State as a pivotal partner in Nigeria’s broadband agenda; not ceremonially, but strategically. You have the educational institutions, the growing innovation ecosystem at nHub and beyond, the youth talent, and now a Governor whose public commitments; from the Right of Way policy to the TechFest declaration, signal the political will that digital infrastructure demands.”
However, the Commissioner maintained a candid tone regarding the current gaps in the network. “We have taken notice. At the same time, we must be honest: many rural LGAs remain underserved, cut off from the digital economy that could transform their livelihoods. Bridging that divide is a shared responsibility, and the NCC is ready to fulfill its part,” she added.
Bridging the Rural Divide
The visit marks the beginning of a deeper dialogue between the regulator and the state. The NCC aims to align its instruments with Plateau’s development goals, specifically focusing on the Universal Service Provision Fund to reach underserved communities.
Ms. Makama emphasised that this recognition is based on clear indicators of potential rather than mere symbolism. She pointed to the state’s “Right of Way” policy support and commitments made at the Plateau TechFest as evidence of a willing administration.
From Policy to Implementation
Governor Mutfwang responded by stressing the need for practical, high-impact implementation, particularly regarding emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence. He noted that the state is already collaborating with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to establish an innovation hub.
The Governor also highlighted a new Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) initiative. This project aims to create remote jobs for at least 500 young people in Jos, reinforcing the need for stable digital infrastructure.
“We must move from policy discussions to practical implementation,” the Governor remarked, noting an existing agreement with Solitran to accelerate the rollout. He stressed the urgency of seizing these opportunities to maintain a competitive advantage in the global digital economy.
