Stakeholders Push for Digital Infrastructure Overhaul in Nigeria

During the Telecom Sector Sustainability Forum (TSSF 7.0) in Lagos, industry stakeholders called on the federal government, regulators, and private sector players to rethink Nigeria's digital infrastructure strategy to enhance investments and drive digital innovation. Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), emphasized the need for increased investment in digital infrastructure, citing the telecom industry's success over the past 25 years.

Ajibola Olude, Executive Secretary and Chief Operating Officer of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), advocated for a renewed focus on talent development, rural inclusion, and infrastructure investment. The forum's convener, Mrs. Bukola Olanrewaju, highlighted the need for actionable solutions to Nigeria's digital infrastructure deficit.

Ikechukwu Nnamani, CEO of Digital Realty Nigeria, warned that Nigeria loses approximately $3.5 billion annually to foreign cloud service providers, with over 80% of sovereign data hosted abroad, posing a national risk. Mr. Chidi Ajuzie from WTES Group noted that broadband penetration is around 57%, despite mobile penetration being about 90%, attributing this to capital starvation, right of way issues, and regulatory fragmentation.