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“There’s a Plan to Address Infrastructure Deficit in the Telecom Sector” – Danbatta
Professor Umar Danbatta, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has asserted, and emphasised that telecoms infrastructure deployment across rural communities in Nigeria is at the heart of every effort of Government towards ensuring the socio-economic development of Nigeria.
Danbatta made these declarations at the International Conference Centre Abuja, while delivering a keynote presentation at the 2021 national conference, exhibition, and annual general meeting of the Nigerian Society of Engineers which started two days ago.
At the conference, with the overarching theme “EXPANSION OF THE ENERGY MIX FOR NATIONAL ECONOMIC GROWTH”, Danbatta spoke focusing on a sub-theme, “Strategic Collaboration between the Town and Gown for Effective Rural Development”, at the 6th Roundtable Symposium of the Nigerian Society of Engineers’ College of Fellows.
The NCC CEO said that the vision of the Federal Government as enunciated in the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (2020-2030) and the National Broadband Plan (2020-2025) is being vigorously implemented. Explaining the connection between these policies and NCC’s operations, Danbatta stated that the NCC’s Strategic Management Plan (SMP) 2020-2024, streamlined in the Commission’s Strategic Vision Plan (2021-2025) to enhance operational and regulatory efficiency, is aligned with the Federal Government’s vision for an all-inclusive digital economy.
Accordingly, to improve Nigeria’s broadband infrastructure, Danbatta reiterated that NCC has divided Nigeria into seven (7) Zones, consisting of the existing 6 constitutional geopolitical divisions, and Lagos constituting the seventh, considering the importance of Lagos as a strategic commercial and technological hub within the structure of the Nigeria’s telecom ecosystem.
“The NCC has proceeded to licence companies for each of the seven zones, to deploy broadband infrastructure that will ensure speed of up to 25 megabits per second in the rural areas. Each of the 774 Local Government Areas of Nigeria will have an initial access point of at least 10 megabits per second.”
To demonstrate NCC’s readiness to race at the same tempo with the Federal Government as articulated in the policy documents, Danbatta stated that the licensed companies, otherwise known as Infrastructure Companies (Infracos), have been directed to move to site to cascade broadband infrastructure to the hinterland.
The EVC affirmed that there is timeframe for the implementation of these projects, including the building of specialised technology centres in the rural areas to enable stakeholders to harness huge benefits of ICT.
The NCC CEO stated that the Commission is waiting to see the Infracos demonstrate creditable level of deployment in the cities and also discharge the burden of proof of the existence of access points in LGAs in the next five months.
Otherwise, he stressed that the Commission may have “to take firm regulatory decisions” in the interest of the Nigerian people and start-ups, who have been waiting for the deployment of rural tech solutions to make contributions to the growth of the economy by exploring derivable benefits that accrue from a digitised economy.
Prof. Danbatta said one of the benefits of digital economy that NCC has collaborated with stakeholders to bring to fruition, is in the area of digital inclusion, where NCC has been collaborating with stakeholders, including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to ensure the target of 80 percent digital inclusion is achieved within the timeframe.
He said NCC will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to enhance innovation, competition and participation in governance by the citizenry, which is one of the hallmarks of digital culture.
The EVC informed the enthusiastic audience at the Conference that Nigeria already has about 40,000 unique transceiver stations and their uniqueness is underpinned by their characteristics as enablers of 2G, 3G and 4G technologies. However, Prof. Danbatta asserted that this figure is inadequate for a country with Nigeria’s size and population. “The United Kingdom with less population, according to the EVC, has over 60,000 of such stations” he stated.
Besides, the licensing and direction given to the Infracos, Prof. Danbatta outlined NCC’s interventions to accelerate the bridging of the digital divide to include: construction of 250 kilometer of Backbone Transmission infrastructure (BTRAIN); 72 Rural Broadband Initiative (RUBI) projects; 1,334 School Knowledge Centres (SKCs); 192 Community Resource Centres (CRCs); Development and deployment of 218 of Local Content for E-Learning; 74 Information Resource Centres (E-Library); Clusters of Access Gaps Reduced from 217 to 112; Digitally Excluded Nigerians reduced from 40 million to 15 million.
Danbatta, whose keynote speech is titled, ‘ICT Facilities for Infrastructure Development’, recognised the imperative of ‘Town-Gown’ collaboration and admitted that as communities and universities confront the increasingly complex social and physical pressures, there is need for effective alignment between these two entities to maximize local resources, knowledge acquisition and efforts towards facilitating deployment of ICT infrastructure to the rural communities.
The EVC maintained that the provision of infrastructure in rural areas plays significant role in promoting entrepreneurship and economic progress for its dwellers and serves as enabler of better quality of life for rural dwellers through the diversification of the rural economy that digital culture enhances.
Danbatta bemoaned the level of ICT adoption and usage in the rural areas, declaring that it is low, compared to the rate of adoption in urban centres. This challenge, he attributed partly to inadequacy of ICT infrastructure, cost of ICT infrastructure deployment and challenge of energy (electricity).
Despite being Africa’s largest ICT market, and a dominant player in the sector, Danbatta affirmed that Nigeria still accounts for a sizeable percentage of the 1 billion world population of unconnected people. However, the EVC stated that NCC is driving the implementation of an ambitious infrastructure project to ensure that the unconnected population of the country are given the opportunity for digital inclusion. He said this reality explains NCC’s frontline role in driving improvement in communications infrastructure in the rural communities where majority of the digitally excluded segment of the population resides.
The foregoing according to the EVC, is the reason the Commission has also partnered and collaborated with all relevant stakeholders, as well as explored cooperation through several discussions with both state and non-state actors to give concrete expression to its commitment to strategic collaboration and partnership, which remains a defining matrix of its operational activities.
The EVC stated that the Commission will continue to engage appropriate stakeholders and explore necessary uptakes towards improving on all infrastructure that support digital economy particularly expansion projects in rural areas because rural infrastructure deployment is central to bridging digital divide in Nigeria.
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Shocking departure of Rafatu Salami: Thunderbolt on journalism
By Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji
I still find it difficult to believe sudden demise of Rafatu Salami. I first came in physical contact with her when I joined International Press Institute (IPI), Nigeria. Before then, we had never met, but only knew our names while practicing journalism
That our maiden meeting was at the 3-day conference of International Press Conference (IPI), in October 2024, held in Government Reservation Area (GRA), Ikeja axis of Lagos State and I can attest to the proactive nature of Rafat, which I admired, as she was up and doing to ensure a successful outing. That skills coupled with her accommodating nature made us to be professionally close
In similar vein, our second encounter was during a training organized for senior journalists in Nigeria by the Nestle Nigeria Plc held between September 11 to 13, 2024. Interestingly, myself and Rafat represented International Press Institute (IPI) and this also provided opportunity for two of us to be more united in journalism.
I recalled vividly that she exhibited her cerebral skills at the training session with robust contributions, and also added glamour to the programme, with her no dull moment nature, which also caught attention of all participants.
I can attest to the accommodating nature of Rafat, and it will be difficult for all other participants that we knew each other less than two years, because her accommodating nature was superb. She always relates with me as if we have known each other for decades.
The known outspoken and vibrant late female journalist is somebody I cherished because of her humility, proactive nature and hardwork among other qualities, particularly in the media industry. She doesn’t believe in failure, but always optimistic that there should be positive results for whatever project she shows interest
In October 25, 2024 she sent me a message about a proposed conference being organized by an establishment to take place in Abeokuta, and asked me to help secure venue and attend to other logistics, which I swiftly responded to, as a way to also appreciate her, because if you handover an assignment to her, Rafatu would also ensure that she provide good results
In the course of our discussions, I even encouraged her to come and join Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), which I am also a member, because of her competence in the media, and in response she said she would join when she attain the position of Deputy Director in her office, explaining that she was still an Assistant Director.
She expressed optimism that she would soon get her promotion which will pave way for her to join the Guild.
However, on November 3, 2024 when I didn’t hear from her about the proposed conference, I was curious to know cause of delay, but sent me a message that she had been experiencing excruciating pain on her legs and could not walk or sit, but making attempt to walk round her room.
I felt for her, and had to recommend a pain relief lotion which I sent the image to her so she can buy and start applying on the legs, I was thinking it was just a minor pain at that time. She appreciated my concern, and replied me she would source for it.
Below is first round of our WhatsApp contact chat
[09/12, 11:00 pm] Ijesakinsman: Uv done ur conference in Abeokuta?
[09/12, 11:01 pm] Rafatu IPI: No. I’ve been incapacitated for 8 weeks now
[09/12, 11:02 pm] Ijesakinsman: What went wrong
[09/12, 11:02 pm] Rafatu IPI: Had excruciating pain on my right leg, could not walk or sit
[09/12, 11:03 pm] Rafatu IPI: But I have begun walking around my room now
[09/12, 11:03 pm] Rafatu IPI: At least I go to toilet without support
[09/12, 11:05 pm] Ijesakinsman: God perfect ur healing
[09/12, 11:05 pm] Rafatu IPI: Amen
But I became shock on December 12, 2024 when I her saw on wheel chair during the conference of International Press Institute (IPI) held in Abuja. Honestly, I was dazed with that picture posted on the Institute membership platform.
I could not resist to keep mute over the development and had to send text to her later in the evening of the event, telling her that I never, knew the medical situation was so heartbreaking, and in response said she cried for hours before she could accept to use the wheel chair to attend the event
This worrisome development motivated me for regular and daily contact with her both on chat and video calls, to know how she’s fairing everyday. This our regular conversation was between December 9 to 17, 2024, as produced below, not until early morning of Friday, just about 48 hours of our chat and video discussions with her, I got the sad news.
Yet I still didn’t believe, because I still spoke with her few days. My curiosity made me to put a call across to her phone at about 7am, that was when it dawned on me, when receiver of the phone call who identified himself as a brother-in-law confirmed the bad news which shattered the day for me and the journalism family.
One thing that is clear is that we cannot query God, who knows everything. Rafat has done her bit, came and gone, but her good work, particularly in the media industry will forever remain a reference point in the nobble profession. No doubt, her sudden exit will be felt in the journalism world, which was her love profession. God rest her soul.
As I earlier stated above, second version of our conversation between December 9 till Tuesday December 17 before her final exit from this sinful world is produced below
[12/12, 1:32 pm] Ijesakinsman: I never knew is that serious that ur on wheel chair
[12/12, 1:35 pm] Rafatu IPI: Yeah
[12/12, 10:23 pm] Ijesakinsman: God will perfect the healing
[12/12, 10:50 pm] Rafatu IPI: Amen
[12/12, 11:02 pm] Ijesakinsman: Honestly, I was shocked when I saw it.
[12/12, 11:03 pm] Rafatu IPI: I cried for a whole day before agreeing to use it
[12/12, 11:06 pm] Ijesakinsman: U don’t need to cry, just be optimistic. I can understand cos I know how proactive ur, and to be confine on wheel chair can be difficult experience. I know God will heal you
[14/12, 11:53 pm] Rafatu IPI: Getting better by the day
[14/12, 11:54 pm] Ijesakinsman: I already have you in my prayer point
[14/12, 11:54 pm] Rafatu IPI: Amen and amen
[14/12, 11:56 pm] Ijesakinsman: Honestly, I was shocked when I saw that ur pix at conference. But am optimistic that you will get over it
[14/12, 11:56 pm] Rafatu IPI: By the special grace of God, the worst is already behind us
[14/12, 11:57 pm] Ijesakinsman: God grace
[15/12, 7:20 pm] Ijesakinsman: God grace and very soon you will rise up to your feet and be more agile and proactive
[15/12, 7:30 pm] Rafatu IPI: Amen and amen
[16/12, 11:49 pm] Ijesakinsman: How are u fairing now
[16/12, 11:49 pm] Rafatu IPI: Much better. Thank you sir
[16/12, 11:50 pm] Ijesakinsman: You will walk on ur own
[17/12, 1:11 am] Rafatu IPI: Amen
Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji is founder Penpushing Media and member International Press Institute(IPI). He wrote this piece from Abeokuta, Ogun State, Headquarters of the Penpushing Media
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FG Pledges Enhanced Security for Southeast Region
… Adequate security is vital for business prosperity – Badaru
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has assured the people of the South-East of enhanced security measures, emphasizing that a secure environment is crucial for business growth and prosperity.
During his operational visit to Enugu in the South-East, the Minister addressed officers and personnel of the 82 Division/Joint task force south East Operation Udo ka under the General officer commanding, Major-General H.T Dada .He appreciated their performance while urging them to intensify their efforts in combating insecurity in the region. He also engaged with key stakeholders, including heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, students, and other community leaders, to discuss collaborative strategies for addressing the current security challenges. Other military platforms visited by the Minister included the Nigerian Airforce base Emene, Enugu.
“President Tinubu has directed me to engage with you all to find sustainable solutions to insecurity. Without security, there can be no peace or development,” Badaru stated. He acknowledged the entrepreneurial spirit of the South-East populace, asserting that security and peace are essential for businesses to thrive. “We seek your candid suggestions and information on how we can practically enhance security and foster lasting peace in this region,” he added.
The Minister reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to eradicating all forms of insecurity in the South-East . He elucidated on the progress made by the Tinubu administration over the past year in combating insecurity across the nation, particularly in these region.
“There is a renewed determination to intensify our efforts against all forms of insecurity under President Tinubu’s leadership,” he declared.
In his remarks, Major General Hassan Dada, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division/ JointTask south East Operation Udo ka, announced that the Army is implementing robust strategies to ensure a safe and secure environment for the upcoming festive season. “Through the Joint Security Task Force in the South-East, code-named ‘Operation UDO KA’, we aim to create a secure atmosphere that facilitates the usual mass return for Christmas,” he stated.
Additionally, retired Major General John Nwoga emphasized the role of social media in exacerbating insecurity, noting that the circulation of old videos depicting criminal activities contributes to fear and panic within communities. “It is imperative for our people to collectively address the negative impact of misleading information and fake news proliferated through social media,” Nwoga urged.
Furthermore, the Minister visited Imo State in continuation of his operational tour of southEast on Friday 22nd November 2024. He addressed the troops at the FOB okigwe, 211 Quick Response Group, Nigerian Airforce owerri and Naval Base Oguta in Imo State. He expressed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR message to them and that they should improve on their successes.
The Honourable Minister also paid a courtesy visit to Governor Hope Uzodimma of imo state to extend his gratitude to the Governor for all his support to the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army/ Joint Task force south East, Operation udo ka. “All the officers and men appreciates you.”
The Ministry of Defence remains committed to fostering a secure and peaceful environment conducive to business and community development in the South-East. We are determined to end insecurity in Nigeria.
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Rented Crowed, APC AKIDA Leader with Zamfara State Govt. Buses Embark on Campaign of Calumny at DSS Office
Godiya Hamza, a Media Analyst, writes from Abuja
The orchestrated campaign of calumny against the Honourable Minister of State for Defence H.E Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle MON by a group of street orchins recruited by the leader of APC AKIDA Tijjani Ramallan is very preposterous and indecent.
This is politics too far, Ramadan has been attacking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR right from campaign days. He never supported or participated in APC activities, he has been jealous of Matawalle loyalty to our President.
Tijjani Ramallan has been sponsoring Banditry and romancing with criminals.
The leader of the APC AKIDA Tijjani Ramallan is being sponsored by the state government to attack the person of Dr Matawalle. It is expected that by now the DSS should have arrested him . He has found himself as a willing tool to be manipulated by Governor Dauda Lawal in attacking Dr Matawalle.
The earlier smear campaign embarked by zamfara state government which was stopped by a court order has forced them to shift to the use of APC AKIDA to carry out their mischief.
What zamfara people need is good governance and not wasting the state resources in trying to pull Matawalle down.
Pull him down syndrome pays no body.
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