Pantami Begins Landmark Broadband Projects, Presents Book

Emma Okonji

The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ibrahim Pantami, will today in Abuja, preside over the commencement of landmark broadband initiatives to be implemented by the Nigerian Communications Commission, (NCC) to accelerate broadband penetration in Nigeria and advance the course of digital economy projections for the nation.

The event will witness 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. 

Pantami is also billed to present a book, ‘Skills Rather Than Just Degrees’, authored by him, with a foreword written by President, Microsoft Corporation, Brad Smith. 

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 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 energise the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020-2030.

The Director, Public Affairs, Nigerian Communications Commission, Mr. Reuben Muoka, said the provision of broadband infrastructure for the MSMEs in Nigeria and for tertiary institutions across the six geopolitical zones of the country, would add the necessary fillip towards achieving the major objectives spelt out in the NDEPS 2020-2030.