Maryam Aminu
The Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) has commended the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (UK FCDO) for their collaboration in enhancing rural connectivity across Nigeria.
Speaking at an Industry-Focused Stakeholders Engagement Session in Lagos, USPF Secretary, Mr. Yomi Arowosafe, emphasized the significance of the partnership in addressing connectivity challenges in unserved and underserved communities.
The event, organized by USPF in collaboration with ITU and UK FCDO, was part of ongoing efforts to expand digital inclusion and foster socio-economic development through improved telecommunications access.
The engagement drew participation from key industry figures, including the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Permanent Secretary, Faruk Yabo, and the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida.
Also in attendance were chief executives of telecom firms, state ICT commissioners, industry leaders, trade associations, development partners, and other stakeholders.
During his remarks, Dr. Tijani reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to providing policy direction and initiatives aimed at expanding connectivity, while Dr. Maida assured that the NCC would continue to support USPF projects through effective regulatory measures to accelerate digital infrastructure deployment.
Arowosafe described the engagement as a reflection of USPF’s commitment to inclusive connectivity, emphasizing that collaboration among government agencies, private sector players, NGOs, and community leaders was essential for sustainable growth.
He noted that the theme of the workshop, “Fostering Connectivity in Unserved and Underserved Communities: Collaborating for Sustainable Growth,” aligned with NCC’s Strategic Focus Areas, the Ministry’s Strategic Blueprint, and Presidential Priority Areas.
He further disclosed that USPF had gathered stakeholder input through questionnaires ahead of the event, with responses shaping panel discussions on strategies to improve connectivity through partnerships, capacity-building, security, and innovative funding mechanisms.
“This engagement provides a platform for robust dialogue and practical solutions to improve telecommunications access in underserved regions. It is the beginning of a collective journey toward a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous Nigeria,” Arowosafe said.
He encouraged active participation from stakeholders, urging them to contribute their expertise toward strengthening Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and improving the lives of all citizens.
Africa Security Investigation News 