Amanze Chinonye
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding broadband access to underserved communities in Plateau State, as part of broader efforts to deepen digital inclusion and unlock economic opportunities.
This position was reiterated during a courtesy visit by the Commission’s Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, to Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, at the Government House in Jos.
The NCC described Plateau as a strategic partner in advancing Nigeria’s national broadband agenda, citing the state’s strong educational institutions, growing innovation ecosystem, and youthful population as key enablers of digital growth.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelMakama said the Commission’s interest in Plateau is driven by “clear indicators of digital potential,” including policy reforms such as the Right of Way framework and the government’s push for innovation-led development.
However, she acknowledged that several rural local government areas in the state remain underserved, limiting access to digital services, education, and economic opportunities.
“Many communities are still cut off from the digital economy that could transform livelihoods. Bridging that divide is a shared responsibility, and the NCC is ready to play its part,” she said.
She added that the visit marked the beginning of deeper collaboration, with the Commission exploring ways to align its regulatory tools, including the Universal Service Provision Fund, with the state’s development priorities.
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Responding, Governor Mutfwang welcomed the NCC’s recognition of Plateau’s digital potential, describing the visit as timely and aligned with his administration’s designation of 2025 as the year of digital innovation.
He stressed the need to translate policy into concrete outcomes, particularly in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, while highlighting ongoing partnerships with the United Nations Development Programme to establish an innovation hub at Plateau State Polytechnic.
The governor also disclosed an existing agreement with Solitran to accelerate broadband rollout across the state.
In a bid to harness opportunities in the digital economy, Mutfwang announced plans for a Business Process Outsourcing initiative expected to create at least 500 remote jobs for young people in Jos.
He further called for a coordinated, technology-driven approach to governance, warning that outdated administrative systems could hinder the state’s ability to compete in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
