The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr Bosun Tijani, has unveiled Project 774 Local Government Connectivity. The supervising Minister of the Ministry, Dr. Bosun Tijani, announced the project’s launch on Monday. This project aims to foster inclusive development and improve access to digital public infrastructure in government offices across Nigeria, including the most remote areas.
Internet access in the country continues to lag, with broadband access falling short of the government’s aim of 50% for 2023. However, through the project, the federal government will seek to change the narrative by leveraging the existing infrastructure of the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NigComSat) and Galaxy Backbone, which will provide connectivity to all 774 LG Secretariats across Nigeria.
The government hopes that improved connectivity will provide local governments with reliable and affordable Internet access and the resources required to deliver efficient public services, promote transparency, stimulate economic growth, and improve citizen engagement.
Also, the ministry is looking to create at least 300 jobs with the project as the government believes that with improved access to online educational resources, training programs and digital literacy initiatives, residents will be able to acquire the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.
