Telecommunications stakeholders convened at the Telecoms Executives and Regulators Forum 2023 (TERF) in Lagos, emphasizing collaboration’s role in enhancing broadband penetration and fostering the digital economy. Organised by the Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), the forum revolved around “Success Factors and Barriers to National Broadband and Digital Economy Aspiration.”
Prof. Umar Danbatta, Executive Vice-Chairman, Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), accentuated digital inclusiveness and the necessity of ICT availability for everyone. The commission is spearheading the telecoms industry’s growth through broadband expansion, with penetration rates projected to hit 70% by 2025. The sector’s contribution to the National GDP stands at 16%.
However, challenges persist. Danbatta acknowledged issues in broadband deployment, increased cyber threats, multiple taxes, and unstable power infrastructure. Addressing these will be pivotal for continuous digital services.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner, Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), spoke about mobile technology’s dominance and the upsurge in e-commerce. The industry faces challenges, including funding, digital literacy, and cybersecurity threats.
ATCON President, Mr. Tony Emoekpere, iterated the forum’s significance in addressing industry challenges and enhancing the sector’s economic contribution. He expressed gratitude to the regulators and organizations for their support.
Additionally, the President of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, called for industry independence and proactive problem-solving. Mr. Yemi Oshodi, Managing Director, Information Connectivity Solutions Ltd., highlighted cost-related challenges and the need for infrastructure expansion in rural areas.
The Head of Enterprise Sales, Fibre One Broadband Limited, proposed commitments to indigenous content, tax alleviations, and infrastructural protection as potential solutions.