NCC Targets Rural Connectivity Gaps, Strengthens Partnership with Plateau on Broadband Expansion
Oru Leonard
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has restated its commitment to deepening broadband penetration in underserved communities as part of efforts to expand digital access and economic opportunities nationwide.
The assurance was given during a courtesy visit by the Commission’s Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Ms. Rimini Makama, to Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, at the Government House in Jos.
Speaking during the meeting, Makama described Plateau as a critical partner in advancing Nigeria’s broadband agenda, citing its growing innovation landscape, youthful population, and supportive policy environment. She noted that initiatives such as the Right of Way policy and commitments made during the Plateau TechFest demonstrate the political will required to drive digital infrastructure development.
According to her, while progress is being made, several rural local government areas in the state remain cut off from reliable connectivity, limiting access to education, business opportunities, and digital services. She stressed that closing this gap requires collaboration, adding that the NCC is prepared to deploy its regulatory tools, including the Universal Service Provision Fund, to reach underserved areas.
Makama described the visit as the start of a broader engagement aimed at aligning the Commission’s interventions with Plateau State’s development priorities, particularly in expanding infrastructure and fostering innovation-led growth.
In his response, Governor Mutfwang welcomed the NCC’s engagement, describing it as timely and consistent with his administration’s focus on digital innovation. He emphasized the need to translate policies into tangible outcomes, especially in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and digital services.
The governor highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the state’s digital ecosystem, including partnerships with development organisations to establish innovation hubs and agreements aimed at accelerating broadband rollout across the state.
He also disclosed plans to launch a Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) initiative expected to create at least 500 remote jobs for young people in Jos, underscoring the economic potential of improved connectivity.
Mutfwang called for a coordinated approach to digital transformation, stressing the urgency of modernising governance systems to improve service delivery and unlock opportunities in e-commerce and the wider digital economy.
