The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in collaboration with the Association for Progressive Communications (APC) and other institutional stakeholders, has intensified efforts to address the persistent connectivity challenges facing rural and underserved communities across Nigeria.
This was the highlight of a two-day policy-focused workshop held in Abuja from June 3 to 4, 2025. The event brought together regulators, community leaders, technical experts, and potential foreign investors to brainstorm practical solutions to Nigeria’s rural digital divide.
The workshop, jointly hosted by the NCC and APC under the Local Networks (LocNet) initiative, explored frameworks for enabling sustainable community networks, innovative funding mechanisms, infrastructure development, and policy reforms geared towards inclusive digital development.
In his address, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, described the event as a timely intervention towards achieving digital inclusion for all Nigerians. Represented by the Executive Commissioner of Technical Services, Mr. Abraham Oshadami, Dr. Maida said:
“This workshop is an opportunity for all of us to harness the expertise, insights, and experiences of diverse stakeholders to address critical challenges such as access to affordable devices, infrastructure development, licensing, spectrum allocation, and institutional sustainability.”
He affirmed the NCC’s commitment to connecting unserved and underserved communities across the country, stressing that community networks are key to transforming local economies and promoting social inclusion.
“At NCC, we recognise the transformative potential of community-centred networks. We view this workshop as a catalyst for meaningful change — one that will ensure every Nigerian, regardless of location or status, has meaningful access to digital opportunities,” he added.
Also speaking, Co-Manager of the LocNet initiative at the APC, Ms. Kathleen Diga, highlighted the importance of adopting a bottom-up approach to rural connectivity, involving grassroots participation.
“This is a space for open exchange — a chance to explore opportunities and innovative models, including community-owned networks, cooperatives, and small social enterprises,” she said. “Community connectivity initiatives are growing rapidly across the global south, providing a strategic response to digital exclusion.”
Presentations at the workshop were delivered by key stakeholders, including the NCC, APC, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), all emphasizing the need for joint policy action to close the rural digital gap.
The APC, a 35-year-old international network championing inclusive internet access, reiterated its support for Nigeria’s efforts to build a digitally inclusive future through policies that support local initiatives.
The workshop concluded with a shared commitment among participants to strengthen collaborations and implement regulatory frameworks that will enhance rural digital infrastructure and access.
