#DigitalInclusion: NCC Partner Stakeholders to Boost Rural Connectivity in Nigeria

In a decisive push to bridge Nigeria’s rural connectivity gap, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has partnered with the Association for Progressive Communications (APC) and other key institutional stakeholders to develop policies that support community network initiatives across underserved regions.

The collaboration culminated in a two-day workshop held in Abuja from June 3–4, 2025. The forum focused on establishing an inclusive policy and regulatory framework to empower community-led networks, promote digital equity, and drive socio-economic development in unserved and underserved communities.

The event attracted diverse participants, including government regulators, community leaders, technical experts, and potential foreign investors. Discussions centered on removing policy bottlenecks, implementing sustainable energy solutions, exploring innovative funding models, and promoting infrastructure development to enhance connectivity in rural Nigeria.

Speaking at the workshop, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of NCC—represented by Abraham Oshadami, Executive Commissioner for Technical Services—emphasized the significance of the initiative.

“This workshop offers a valuable platform to engage diverse stakeholders on critical challenges such as access to affordable devices, licensing, spectrum allocation, and sustainability,” Maida said. “At NCC, we’re committed to advancing digital inclusion, especially in rural areas, through support for community network models.”

Maida noted that such forums play a key role in shaping policies that will guarantee equitable access to digital opportunities for all Nigerians, regardless of socio-economic background.

Also speaking, Kathleen Diga, Co-Manager of the APC’s Local Networks (LocNet) initiative, highlighted the importance of bottom-up approaches to digital inclusion.

“This is a moment to explore community-led solutions—small enterprises, cooperatives, and local initiatives—that are already bridging digital gaps in the global south,” Diga said. “These networks are a strategic response to digital exclusion and deserve recognition and support.”

According to a statement signed by Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, Acting Head of Public Affairs at NCC, the workshop featured expert presentations from NCC, APC, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), all focused on developing a unified national framework for expanding rural broadband access.

The Association for Progressive Communications, a 35-year-old global network, continues to advocate for equitable internet access, particularly across the Global South. Through its LocNet initiative, it is working with regulators to drive inclusive, sustainable, and community-centric internet solutions in Nigeria.