The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has urged the Federal Government to address the infrastructural deficit, economic constraints, and systemic challenges hindering the expansion of broadband internet in the country.
Eko Hot Blog reports that ATCON’s President, Mr. Tony Emoekpere, made this call while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria on how to tackle the barriers and gaps in broadband connectivity.
Emoekpere emphasized the need for the government to take action as the Nigerian National Broadband Plan 2020-2025 aims to increase access to high-speed internet for the population.
The plan seeks to deliver a minimum of 25 Mbps in urban areas and 10 Mbps in rural areas.
However, with the deadline for these goals fast approaching, Nigerians continue to face poor and weak internet connections.
In order to achieve the broadband plan’s objectives, Emoekpere identified several critical lapses that must be addressed.
These include inadequate infrastructure, economic hurdles, and systemic challenges affecting the telecommunications industry.
He stressed the importance of investing in infrastructure development, promoting a conducive economic environment, and addressing regulatory issues to set things in order.
According to him, urban regions like Lagos are enjoying faster and more reliable connectivity compared to underserved rural areas, where infrastructure gaps persist.
“The barriers to broadband internet expansion in Nigeria reflect a combination of infrastructure deficits, economic constraints, and systemic challenges.
“Addressing these is critical for achieving equitable digital inclusion and supporting the country’s economic growth,” Emoekpere said.
The ATCON president affirms the gap in the deployment of broadband infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas. “The limited penetration of fibre-optic networks and inadequate last-mile connections prevent equitable access to high-speed internet.
“These gaps exacerbate the digital divide, leaving millions without meaningful connectivity. “The affordability of internet access remains a critical issue. “Broadband services and devices are still too expensive for many Nigerians, especially those in lowerincome brackets.”
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