Dr. Bosun Tijani says many Nigerians cannot access reliable digital connections yet. The Communication Minister talked about this problem at a meeting in Lagos on Thursday. The USPF event focused on helping forgotten communities join the digital world. Despite big improvements over 25 years, many people remain left behind.
Nigeria has recently brought millions of citizens online through better broadband networks. This growth created new opportunities for business ideas and tech innovation across the country. But rural areas face tough challenges like broken-down infrastructure and almost no tech skills. These problems block business growth and limit what the digital economy can achieve.
The government created USPF specifically to reach these disconnected communities. Dr. Tijani mentioned several key projects his ministry launched to fix the gap. These include adding 90,000km of fiber optic cables, Project 774, Universal Access Project, National Broadband Alliance, and training 3 million tech talents. The minister stressed the government cannot succeed alone.
Public agencies must collaborate with businesses, development groups, and local communities. They must listen to what each area needs rather than forcing solutions from above. Using towers and networks already built saves money and speeds up progress. Knowing how to use the internet matters just as much as having it available.
The minister emphasized economic and environmental concerns must shape plans. "We have the vision, policy framework, and determination to connect every Nigerian," he said. Partners must discover fresh ways to reach the last mile of customers. Dr. Tijani believes everyone in Nigeria can access digital tools by 2030 if they focus on infrastructure, skills training, and supportive rules.
Nigeria has recently brought millions of citizens online through better broadband networks. This growth created new opportunities for business ideas and tech innovation across the country. But rural areas face tough challenges like broken-down infrastructure and almost no tech skills. These problems block business growth and limit what the digital economy can achieve.
The government created USPF specifically to reach these disconnected communities. Dr. Tijani mentioned several key projects his ministry launched to fix the gap. These include adding 90,000km of fiber optic cables, Project 774, Universal Access Project, National Broadband Alliance, and training 3 million tech talents. The minister stressed the government cannot succeed alone.
Public agencies must collaborate with businesses, development groups, and local communities. They must listen to what each area needs rather than forcing solutions from above. Using towers and networks already built saves money and speeds up progress. Knowing how to use the internet matters just as much as having it available.
The minister emphasized economic and environmental concerns must shape plans. "We have the vision, policy framework, and determination to connect every Nigerian," he said. Partners must discover fresh ways to reach the last mile of customers. Dr. Tijani believes everyone in Nigeria can access digital tools by 2030 if they focus on infrastructure, skills training, and supportive rules.
