January 29, (THEWILL) – The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), Aminu Maida, has commended Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda for his proactive approach to waiving Right of Way (RoW) charges for telecom firms
Maida, who disclosed this at a strategic meeting in the NCC head office in Abuja, described Radda’s decision as “forward-thinking” and highlighted its significance as a catalyst for achieving the National Broadband Plan’s 70 percent broadband penetration target by 2025.
As the first governor in the current dispensation to take such a bold step, Radda’s commitment to removing obstacles like RoW charges is seen as a crucial element in driving the success of broadband initiatives.
During the meeting, Governor Radda showcased innovative policies and programmes implemented in Katsina State, demonstrating a clear understanding of the pivotal role digital connectivity infrastructure plays in fostering economic development.
Notably, the state efficiently surveyed 3,882 educational institutions within two weeks, achieving 100% success in result uploads through pervasive connectivity, even in hinterlands and villages.
Expressing support for the National Broadband Alliance project initiated by the Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, Radda emphasized Katsina State’s commitment to collaborative efforts.
The Alliance aims to unite key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, along with civil society, to develop sustainable business models for widespread Internet adoption in critical public institutions nationwide.
Maida assured Governor Radda of the NCC’s collaboration and support, aligning with the shared vision for a digitally progressive Katsina State.
The strategic partnership reflects a concerted effort towards leveraging digital connectivity to drive socio-economic development in the region.
Speaking, the governor said the telecommunications sector holds immense significance in driving the digital economy agenda of the federal government.
Radda requested the Commission’s invaluable support in enhancing the telecommunications and internet infrastructure across various ministries, departments, agencies, hospitals, and schools in Katsina State.
He said this endeavour aims to achieve a more streamlined operation of the government.
He assured the NCC of his unwavering commitment to collaborate with the Commission and all other stakeholders in the industry.
“Together, we strive to facilitate the extension of services by service providers to the most remote towns and communities,” he said
THEWILL recalls that Maida, at a media parly in Lagos recently, lamented the obstacles created by some states that insist and even increase their RoW charges in the name of aggressive revenue generation.
About the Author
Sam Diala is a Bloomberg Certified Financial Journalist with over a decade of experience in reporting Business and Economy. He is Business Editor at THEWILL Newspaper, and believes that work, not wishes, creates wealth.
