Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Pantami, will this Thursday serve as chairman of the forum for the commencement of broadband initiatives to be implemented by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The projects are designed to accelerate broadband penetration in Nigeria and advance the course of digital economy projections for the nation.
A statement issued by the Director, Public Affairs of the commission, Reuben Muoka, indicated that the event would also feature the award of contracts for the provision of broadband infrastructure for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), as well as for tertiary and higher institutions of learning across the six geopolitical zones of the country.
The list of projects for the various geopolitical zones that are set for launch were recently approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), after presentation by the Minister. The projects are expected to be completed within six months, from the date of the award.
The director further stated that renowned tech companies have been selected through a transparent tendering process by the NCC for the implementation of the strategic projects.
The event is expected to attract multi-stakeholders from the academia, technology enthusiasts, including prospective start-up companies, fintech organisations and other interested sectors, whose activities are billed to energize the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020-2030.
The provision of broadband infrastructure for the MSMEs and tertiary institutions across the six geopolitical zones of the country will add the necessary fillip towards achieving the major objectives spelt out in the NDEPS 2020-2030.
The minister is also expected to present a book written by him titled ‘Skills Rather Than Just Degrees’ with a foreword written by Brad Smith, President, Microsoft Corporation, at the event.
