The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has restated its plan to expand broadband access to underserved communities in Plateau State.
This was made known in a statement signed by Head of Public Affairs Nnenna Ukoha on Wednesday during a visit by Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management Rimini Makama to Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the Government House in Jos.
Makama said the commission is working to improve access to connectivity and the opportunities linked to it.
She said Plateau State is part of the national broadband plan due to its institutions, technology activities and youth population.
“The NCC has identified Plateau State as a partner in Nigeria’s broadband agenda,” she said.
She noted that some rural local government areas in the state still lack access to connectivity.
Makama said the commission is ready to work with the state government to address the gap.
She said the visit was to begin discussions on how the commission’s programmes can align with the state’s plans, including the use of the Universal Service Provision Fund to reach underserved areas.
Makama also referred to steps taken by the state government, including its Right of Way policy and commitments made at Plateau TechFest.
She said these steps support broadband expansion and digital development.
In his response, Governor Mutfwang said the visit aligns with the state’s focus on digital innovation.
He said the government is working with the United Nations Development Programme to establish an innovation hub at Plateau State Polytechnic.
He also said the state has an agreement with Solitran to expand broadband access.
The governor said the state plans to start a business process outsourcing initiative to create jobs for at least 500 young people in Jos.
He said there is a need to move from policy discussions to implementation and to adopt technology in governance and service delivery.
