CITAD has raised alarm over increasing internet data costs in Nigeria, warning that it exacerbates the country’s digital divide. Coordinator Haruna Adamu Hadeija noted that the 50% tariff hike by the NCC has made internet access more challenging for underserved communities, particularly affecting students and women. CITAD calls for immediate policy interventions and recognition of community networks to help bridge the connectivity gap.
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has expressed alarm regarding the escalating costs of internet data in Nigeria, highlighting its detrimental effect on reducing the country’s digital divide. The organization emphasizes that increased costs threaten to leave underserved communities without crucial online services, further exacerbating their isolation.
Haruna Adamu Hadeija, Coordinator of Community Network at CITAD, made these remarks during a press briefing in Kano. He articulated that the recent 50% price hike on data, calls, and SMS imposed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has compounded the existing challenges faced by communities with inadequate internet access.
Hadeija stated, “Now that data charges have been jerked up by 50%, students and parents in underserved areas have to ‘dearly’ pay to enable their children to learn online.” He specified that this increase not only worsens the connectivity gap but also obstructs the digital empowerment of countless Nigerians.
Despite Nigeria’s efforts to improve internet accessibility, approximately 27.91 million individuals in 97 underserved areas lack internet access, as per a 2022 report by the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF). The absence of connectivity adversely affects students, youth, and women, particularly in rural settings.
Hadeija emphasized that in areas without internet, parents must send their children long distances to register for exams and check results, making it unjust that many are deprived of affordable internet services. He advocated for immediate policy measures to bridge the expanding digital divide, urging for recognition of community networks as vital connectivity providers.
The CITAD coordinator called on the Minister for Digital Economy to support these initiatives and encouraged the USPF to provide grants that would empower local communities to establish their own connectivity solutions. He remarked that community networks would not compete but complement existing mobile operators, working together to address the connectivity issue.
CITAD also suggested capacity-building programs to equip local communities with skills necessary for resource mobilization and sustainability, promoting the establishment of self-reliant community-centered networks.
The rising cost of internet data in Nigeria poses a significant threat to connectivity, particularly for marginalized communities. CITAD advocates for urgent policy interventions and community involvement to mitigate these disparities. By recognizing community networks and providing necessary support, Nigeria can work towards closing the digital divide that currently impedes access to essential online services.
Original Source: dailypost.ng
