The Secretary of USPF, Mr. Yomi Arowosafe, praised ITU and UK-FCDO for enhancing rural connectivity in Nigeria during a recent engagement session. Key stakeholders, including government officials and industry leaders, discussed strategies for promoting digital inclusion. The session emphasized collaboration to bridge the digital divide, identifying key strategies for sustainable connectivity.
Mr. Yomi Arowosafe, Secretary of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), expressed gratitude towards the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (UK-FCDO) for their collaborative efforts with the Nigerian government to improve rural connectivity and foster socio-economic development. Arowosafe made these remarks during an Industry-Focused Stakeholders Engagement Session in Lagos, organized by the USPF in conjunction with UK-FCDO and ITU.
The session was attended by important stakeholders including Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, alongside telecommunication company executives, state ICT commissioners, and other influential industry figures. During the session, Tijani reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to policies aimed at enhancing digital inclusion and connectivity, stating that expanding access is crucial for transforming Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.
Dr. Maida also reiterated the commission’s dedication to supporting USPF initiatives by implementing regulatory measures necessary for the swift development of crucial digital infrastructure, aligning with the Federal Government’s developmental goals. Arowosafe emphasized USPF’s dedication to fostering inclusive connectivity, underscoring the significance of collaborative efforts in bridging Nigeria’s digital divide. The event’s theme focused on promoting connectivity in unserved and underserved areas, reflecting the government’s commitment to increasing digital access in accordance with strategic priorities.
Arowosafe stated, “Together, we have the power to create sustainable and inclusive pathways to ensure no community is left behind.” He remarked on the need for strong partnerships among various sectors, including the government and NGOs, to address both immediate and long-term connectivity issues through shared insights and resources. Furthermore, the USPF gathered stakeholder input through questionnaires prior to the session, which informed discussions on strategies for collaboration, capacity building, security enhancement, and innovative funding approaches for rural connectivity.
The engagement session provided a robust platform for dialogue and practical solutions to tackle Nigeria’s connectivity challenges, encouraging participants to contribute their expertise to enhance the digital ecosystem for all Nigerians. Arowosafe concluded by asserting that this event signifies the start of a collaborative journey towards a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous Nigeria, expressing pride in leading the effort.
The recent engagement session organized by the USPF, in connection with ITU and UK-FCDO, has underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance rural connectivity in Nigeria. Key stakeholders reinforced their commitment to digital inclusion and addressing connectivity challenges through strategic partnerships. The insights gathered will aid in formulating effective solutions, ensuring that no community is excluded in the journey towards a connected and prosperous Nigeria.
Original Source: sciencenigeria.com
