• Insecurity widens digital divide between South, North
• Nigeria ranks 88th on digital quality of life
• States’ activities threaten rural, universal coverage, operators claim
• Ministry keen on 90,000km fibre deployment to boost access
• 57% of Internet users still on 2G
The digital divide in Nigeria is growing due to stagnating private investment, states’ revenue activities, failed infrastructure projects, and an unfriendly business environment. Currently, 136 million people are digitally excluded in the country, with a significant disparity between the south and north regions in terms of internet access.
Nigeria ranks 88th in the Digital Quality of Life Index, showing an increase in digital well-being. However, the country still struggles to provide adequate internet access, especially in rural areas. The failure of infrastructure projects like the InfraCo initiative has hindered progress, leaving many regions underserved.
Efforts are being made to expand internet access through fibre optic deployment, but challenges remain, including reliance on outdated networks like 2G. The government aims to increase broadband penetration, but with only 27% progress towards the 70% target, the road ahead is challenging.
Addressing the digital divide requires concerted efforts from government, private sector, and international partners to improve infrastructure, reduce costs, and enhance connectivity across the country.
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