The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to expanding digital access across Nigeria, with renewed efforts aimed at deepening digital inclusion for rural communities through the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF).
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, disclosed this in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), following the induction and inaugural meeting of the newly constituted USPF Board held in Lagos.
According to him, the meeting brought together members of the Board to chart a strategic direction for the Fund, which is designed to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide by extending telecommunications and digital services to unserved and underserved communities.
Established under the supervision of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the USPF plays a key role in driving connectivity to areas where private sector investment in telecom infrastructure is limited or commercially unviable.
The Minister noted that discussions at the meeting focused on strengthening the operations of the Fund and positioning it to deliver greater impact in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Participants at the meeting also emphasized the importance of improving access to reliable telecommunications services in rural areas, where millions of Nigerians still face challenges in accessing basic digital infrastructure.
They stressed that expanding connectivity is essential not only for communication but also for education, healthcare delivery, economic empowerment, and access to government services.
The Board members expressed commitment to providing strong oversight, strategic direction, and accountability to ensure that the USPF effectively fulfils its mandate of bridging the digital divide.
They also reaffirmed their resolve to leverage the Fund as a platform for promoting digital inclusion and ensuring that no community is left behind in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.
The meeting concluded with a renewed focus on collaboration, innovation, and targeted interventions to expand meaningful connectivity across rural and underserved communities in Nigeria.
