USPF, ITU, UK FCDO Partner to Expand Rural Connectivity
By Patience Ikpeme
The Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is working with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (UK FCDO) to expand rural connectivity across Nigeria.
At an industry-focused stakeholders’ engagement session in Lagos, the Secretary of the USPF, Mr. Yomi Arowosafe, commended the ITU and UK FCDO for their support in improving access to digital services in unserved and underserved communities. He said the collaboration plays a key role in advancing digital inclusion and driving socio-economic growth.
The event, organized by the USPF in partnership with the UK FCDO and ITU, brought together government officials, industry leaders, and other stakeholders to discuss strategies for expanding network coverage. Those in attendance included the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Faruk Yabo; the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida; Chief Executives of telecommunications firms; State ICT Commissioners; trade associations; development partners; and senior officials from the NCC and USPF.
The Minister said President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to creating policies that will boost digital connectivity and support economic development. The NCC boss also said the Commission will continue to support USPF projects through regulatory measures that will accelerate the rollout of digital infrastructure in line with the government’s plans.
Arowosafe said the discussions at the session reflected the collective goal of making digital services available to more Nigerians. He explained that the theme, “Fostering Connectivity in Unserved and Underserved Communities: Collaborating for Sustainable Growth,” aligns with the NCC’s Strategic Focus Areas, the Ministry’s Strategic Blueprint, and the Federal Government’s policy direction.
He added that ensuring broader access to digital services requires strong cooperation between the government, private sector, development organizations, and local communities. He called for joint efforts in solving challenges, securing investment, and training personnel to sustain long-term improvements in connectivity.
Before the session, the USPF had collected feedback from stakeholders through questionnaires. Arowosafe said responses from this exercise shaped discussions on building stronger partnerships, improving security, and designing funding models to support rural connectivity projects.
Describing the event as a step toward lasting solutions, Arowosafe urged participants to contribute ideas that will improve telecommunications access in underserved regions.
“This session is the start of a larger effort to improve digital access nationwide. The USPF is committed to driving this initiative, and we look forward to achieving meaningful progress together,” he said.
