NCC boss lauds Katsina governor over telecom policies

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Telecommunications Commission, NCC, Aminu Maida has lauded Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda for his proactive policies that saw the waiving of Right of Way, RoW, charges, saying it was a welcome development for the telecom sector.

Maida spoke at a meeting with the governor, describing the decision as “forward-thinking” which would serve as a catalyst for achieving the National Broadband Plan’s 70 percent broadband penetration target by 2025.

The NCC boss revealed that Radda was the first governor in the President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take such bold step, which he posited was a sign of commitment to removing hindrances in driving the success of broadband initiatives.

The governor used the opportunity to showcase innovative policies and programmes since he assumed office which he said, was a demonstration of a clear understanding of the crucial role in digital connectivity infrastructure plays in fostering economic development.

Radda revealed that the state efficiently surveyed 3,882 educational institutions within two weeks and achieved 100% success in result uploads through pervasive connectivity, including the 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.

The NCC boss assured the governor of collaboration and support in consonance with a shared vision for a digitally progressive Katsina State, adding that the strategic partnership was a reflection of concerted effort in achieving socio economic development in the North West.

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.