News
NCC reaffirms commitment to expanding broadband access in underserved communities
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reiterated its commitment to expanding broadband access to underserved communities across the country, describing connectivity as key to unlocking economic and social opportunities.
KANO FOCUS this position was restated during a courtesy visit by the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, to the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, at the Government House in Jos.
During the visit, the commission described Plateau State as a strategic partner in advancing Nigeria’s national broadband agenda, citing its strong educational institutions, growing innovation ecosystem, youthful population and supportive policy direction.
Makama noted that the NCC’s interest in the state is driven by tangible factors, including the presence of innovation hubs such as nHub and government policies that encourage digital transformation.
“The NCC has identified Plateau State as a pivotal partner in Nigeria’s broadband agenda; not ceremonially, but strategically,” she said, adding that the state possesses the human capital and political will required to drive digital infrastructure development.
She, however, acknowledged that several rural local government areas remain underserved and disconnected from the digital economy, stressing that bridging the gap requires joint efforts.
According to her, the NCC is prepared to play its part in addressing the digital divide and ensuring that more Nigerians benefit from improved connectivity.
Nigeria’s broadband penetration currently stands at about 53 per cent, falling short of the 70 per cent target set under the National Broadband Plan 2020–2025.
Responding, Governor Mutfwang emphasised the need to translate policy into concrete actions, particularly in emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence.
He highlighted ongoing initiatives, including collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme to establish an innovation hub at Plateau State Polytechnic, as well as an existing agreement with Solitran to accelerate broadband deployment across the state.
The governor also disclosed plans to launch a Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) initiative aimed at creating jobs for at least 500 young people who would work remotely from Jos.
He stressed the urgency of harnessing opportunities within the digital economy, warning that delays could result in lost competitive advantage.
The engagement underscores the NCC’s broader push to deepen broadband penetration nationwide and ensure that underserved communities are not left behind in Nigeria’s digital transformation drive.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Director General of the Telecommunications Regulatory Board (ART) of the Republic of Cameroon, Philemon Zoo Zame, on Wednesday visited the headquarters of the [Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in Abuja for a benchmarking exercise aimed at strengthening regulatory collaboration and knowledge sharing between both countries.
KANO FOCUS reports that during the visit, the Cameroonian telecom regulator met with the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NCC, Aminu Maida.
A statement issued by Ayiabari A. Kigbara, Manager, Media Relations, Public Affairs Department of the NCC, said the engagement focused on exchanging ideas and best practices in telecommunications regulation, with emphasis on enhancing efficiency and development within the sector.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited has announced that its ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) remains unchanged, reaffirming its commitment to stability in Nigeria’s domestic energy market.
In a statement issued by Esan Sunday, Head of Media Relations, Branding and Communication, the company said sustaining the current price reflects its efforts to cushion the broader economy against external shocks. It noted that by absorbing prevailing cost pressures, the refinery is helping to moderate inflationary risks, promote energy affordability, and ensure uninterrupted fuel supply amid ongoing global uncertainties.
The company reiterated its dedication to the steady supply of high-quality petroleum products to the Nigerian market, while aligning with national objectives of price stability and energy security.
It also urged the public to rely solely on official communications from the refinery for accurate and up-to-date information regarding its operations and pricing.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo on his emergence as the Deputy Governor of Kano State following his swearing-in on Tuesday.
KANO FOCUS reports that Garo was sworn in by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after being nominated to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of former deputy governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Garo’s appointment as a positive step toward strengthening unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State.
The President noted that the 48-year-old politician has held several public offices, including Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during the administration of former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. He also served as the APC governorship running mate in the 2023 general elections.
Tinubu commended Governor Yusuf for the appointment, urging political stakeholders in the state to rally behind the administration to ensure stability and progress.
He also called on the new deputy governor to work closely with the governor in delivering effective leadership and accelerating development in Kano State.
The President wished Garo success in his new role.
Cameroon telecom regulator visits NCC for benchmarking exercise
Dangote Refinery maintains ex-depot price of PMS
Tinubu congratulates Garo on appointment as Kano deputy governor
Ganduje acknowledges Sanusi II as Emir of Kano, 6 years after dethroning him
Gov. Yusuf to swear in Murtala Garo as Kano deputy governor Tuesday
Kano SUBEB disowns fake teachers’ recruitment results
Sarkin Fulanin Jaidinawa Abubakar Gwadabe Buhari dies, funeral set for Wednesday
Kano Judicial Commission sanctions Shariah Court Judges, other staff over misconduct
Tinubu nominates Kano’s Rabiu Umar as new NMDPRA chief
