Poor infrastructure, high data cost, others threaten FG’s 70% internet access target

…Experts list solutions

By Chinenye Anuforo

Insufficient investment in infrastructure, foreign exchange difficulties faced by telecom providers, power challenges, high cost of expanding internet access to rural areas and weak purchasing power of cosumers have been cited as potential roadblocks threatening the  federal government’s goal of achieving 70 per cent internet access by 2025.

Experts who listed the aforementioned hurdles, also noted that internet penetration, under Bosun Tijani as Communications Minister,  has dipped from 45.57 per cent to 43.53 per cent. This has raised posers about the feasibility of achieving the stated goal of 70 per cent by 2025.

According to Research ICT Africa, a fourfold increase in internet access prices, makes internet access a luxury for many Nigerians.

“The rising cost of internet access is a major barrier,” said Oluseyi Akindeinde, founder of NeuRaL AI. “Economic pressures, with rising inflation and unemployment, may force Nigerians to prioritize basic needs over internet access”, said Jide Awe, Founder of Jidaw Systems Limited.

Also, “Expanding internet infrastructure, especially in rural areas, is lagging behind,” said Akindeinde.

Akinyemi Olabode, a telecommunications analyst, pointed out, “The focus has been on urban centers, leaving vast swathes of the country unconnected.”

The experts also added that burdensome regulations, including high right-of-way charges and multiple taxation, disincentivize investment in infrastructure development. Security concerns due to vulnerable telecom sites and arbitrary site closures further disrupt internet service delivery.

However, opinions are divided on achieving the 70 per cent target. Industry leaders believe it’s possible with significant investments in infrastructure, subsidized smartphones and data plans, and collaboration with private companies.

Hear them, Femi Akinsanya, an IT expert, argued, “It’s ambitious, but achievable.”

Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of ALTON, emphasized collaboration among stakeholders. He said, “Stakeholders have to work together to achieve the set target.

It is doable if the industry work together as one important eco- system”

Contrarily, Jide Sodipo, an independent telecommunications consultant, cautioned, “The current downward trend is worrying. Unless there’s a drastic shift, achieving 70 per cent by 2025 seems unlikely.”

Stakeholders believe a collective effort is needed. Addressing affordability, expanding infrastructure, and fostering public-private partnerships are crucial. Local initiatives in underserved areas provide hope, with training programs on digital literacy and exploring alternative internet access solutions.

“Nigeria’s journey towards achieving its internet penetration target requires overcoming these challenges.

Increased access to information, education, and economic opportunities can empower millions and propel the nation towards a brighter digital future”, stakeholders concluded.