The exceptional attributes of high-speed internet access are vast and profound, fueling a diverse array of critical operations. Not only does broadband act as a catalyst for businesses, it also provides indispensable infrastructure that promotes economic development, fosters electronic commerce, generates job opportunities, and attracts new investors. Based on this immense impact of broadband access, the multinational technology and networking services company, Ericsson, has shown keen interest in investing in Nigeria’s broadband market.
This interest was conveyed in a visit by an Ericsson team, headed by the Head of Government and Industry Relations, Shitlesi Makkhofane, and Peter Olusoji, to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). During the visit, Makkhofane expressed concern over several regions of Nigeria that lacked internet access, stating their commitment and readiness to deploy broadband services to these underserved communities.
Access to the internet sparks countless opportunities. In the educational sector, broadband enables students to connect with extensive online resources and maintain pace with global progress. In terms of health, high-speed internet helps elucidate mechanisms for providing medical care to underserved areas, facilitating treatments and monitoring. Additionally, prompt diagnosis of life-threatening diseases becomes achievable, potentially saving numerous lives.
Just think about the influence of broadband on e-commerce in Nigeria. Where would platforms like Jiji, Konga, and Jumia be without it? Internet access has been instrumental in encouraging economic development, edging regional, national, and global markets forward. Furthermore, the influence of social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook in revolutionizing interactions between the public and various government agencies illustrates broadband’s power.
Despite the vast potential, some regions in Nigeria still face significant deprivation in terms of broadband availability, accessibility, and affordability. Addressing this, the Ericsson Group has indicated its readiness to provide data management services to enable network interoperability and secure systems against the threat of cloned devices. However, this ambitious move demands the careful navigation of licensing requirements and agency approval.
The Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, NCC, Mr. Sunday Dare, expressed his appreciation for Ericsson’s interest in the Nigerian Telecom ecosystem. However, he noted that economic instability could create obstacles, particularly citing the foreign exchange shortage.
Despite these concerns, Mr. Dare assured the Ericsson team of the commission’s commitment to inviting foreign investors for the development of the telecom industry in the country. He promised to present the discussion to the management for further consideration.
In the end, a world without quality internet access is truly unimaginable. It is as unthinkable as a party without music or a wedding ceremony without the bride. More than a luxury, high-speed internet has become a necessity.
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