The Federal Government has launched a nationwide telecommunications project aimed at bringing reliable internet and mobile network services to millions of Nigerians living in underserved and unconnected communities.
The initiative, known as the Nigeria Universal Communication Access Project (NUCAP), commenced with the commissioning of its first telecommunications tower in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.
Under the programme, the government plans to deploy 3,700 telecommunications sites nationwide, with the target of connecting nearly 20 million Nigerians who currently lack reliable access to telephone and internet services. <Cite refs={[“turn320830search0”,“turn320830search1”]}/>
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, said the project was designed to close the digital divide and ensure that people in rural communities can benefit from opportunities created by modern communication technology.
He explained that improved connectivity would help farmers reach buyers, enable traders to conduct digital transactions and give families better access to essential services during emergencies.
The project is also expected to support education, healthcare, financial inclusion and small businesses by making digital services more accessible in communities where poor network coverage has restricted economic and social activities. <Cite refs={[“turn320830search1”]}/>
The commissioning of the first tower marks the beginning of the planned nationwide rollout, with the government seeking to extend telecommunications infrastructure to locations that have remained underserved by existing networks.
Beyond improving communication, the initiative is expected to strengthen local economic activities by connecting rural businesses to wider markets and giving residents greater access to information and digital opportunities.
The Federal Government has also called on community leaders and residents to protect the infrastructure to ensure that the facilities remain operational and deliver lasting benefits.
The project forms part of broader efforts to expand Nigeria’s digital economy and reduce the gap between urban areas with stronger connectivity and rural communities with limited access to telecommunications services.
