The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has begun consultations on a proposal that could enable millions of students across the country to access approved educational websites and digital learning platforms without paying for internet data.
The initiative is contained in a consultation paper released by the Joint NCC-Industry Committee on the Implementation of Zero-Rated Access to Education Platforms for Students in Nigeria.
According to the document, the proposed programme is designed to tackle digital exclusion by removing internet access costs that often prevent students from participating in online learning.
The consultation process, which runs from June 19 to July 9, 2026, follows a directive by President Bola Tinubu urging telecommunications companies to provide seamless internet connectivity for educational institutions and learning platforms.
The committee explained that the Zero-Rated Data Access Project aims to use existing telecommunications infrastructure to improve educational access and support national development.
It noted that giving students free access to educational resources would help bridge the digital divide and enable Nigerian learners to benefit from the same online learning opportunities available to students in other parts of the world.
Under the proposal, students would be able to access educational content, learning materials, and digital skills platforms at no data cost.
To achieve this, the committee is considering two implementation models. The first involves creating a central mobile-friendly portal where users can access approved educational resources through a single platform without data charges. The second option would require telecommunications operators to grant free access directly to approved educational websites and learning platforms.
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The NCC is also seeking public opinion on who should qualify for the programme. Options under consideration include limiting access to senior secondary and tertiary students, restricting it to public institutions, extending it to both public and private schools, or adopting a phased rollout beginning with public schools before expanding coverage.
Another proposal would allow anyone interested in accessing approved educational resources to benefit from the free service, regardless of their educational status.
The committee, however, stressed the importance of developing a sustainable funding model, noting that each option comes with financial implications. To prevent misuse, beneficiaries would be required to register before accessing the service.
The proposed educational content eligible for free access includes curriculum-based learning materials, accredited e-learning platforms, digital libraries, research databases, teacher training resources, and examination-related platforms recognised by educational authorities and examination bodies.
Platforms being considered include Google Classroom, Coursera, the Nigerian Virtual Library, and the Nigeria Learning Passport.
The committee also proposed excluding social media platforms, entertainment websites, streaming services, general internet browsing, and other non-educational content from the programme.
To ensure long-term sustainability, funding options under consideration include government support, the Universal Service Provision Fund, partnerships with development agencies, public-private collaborations, and cost-sharing arrangements among stakeholders in the telecommunications and education sectors.
One of the proposals recommends providing beneficiaries with free access to approved educational platforms for an initial period of 12 months, subject to a daily data usage limit.
