One billion Africans remain unconnected to mobile internet – NCC leads search for solution

The African Telecommunication Union, ATU delegates from across the African continent are being hosted by the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC.

Declaring the event open on behalf of the Federal government of Nigeria, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, represented by Mr Ahmed Mohammed Alsukun, noted that almost one billion people in Africa do not use mobile internet, despite living within broadband coverage.

He noted that infrastructure expansion must be matched by affordability, suitable device, digital skill trust, and local services, adding that these challenges also present opportunities.

Other speakers at the event include ATU Secretary General, John Omo, Chairperson of the Adminstrative Council, Ms Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani, and Mr. Ahmed Mohammed Alsukun, who represented the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, all emphasizing on the need to bridge the gap in the use of internet across Africa.

Speaking, Alsukun added that “Working together through the ATU, we can develop common solution, share experience, attract investment, and make certain that, and be certain that no Africa country is left behind digital development. Nigeria is proud to continue playing an active role in the work of the ATU,” he said.

“We value the strong collaboration among member states and remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote innovation and digital inclusion, spectrum management, cyber security, digital infrastructure, and the harmonization of policy throughout the continent.

“As we also prepare for the International Telecommunication Union Presidential Conference 2026 in Doha, this meeting provides an opportunity for Africa to strengthen its unity and speak with one voice on issues that affect the future of global telecommunication and digital development.

“The common position advanced through the ATU process must reflect Africa’s priority with clarity and supported consistently by our delegation. A united Africa will have a greatest influence in international decision making and will be better placed to advance and protect the interests of our continent.”

On his part, Omo noted that the conference can exercise its authority effectively only when the proposals placed before it are legally sound, credible, procedural and supported an honest account of implementation.

He said, “Much of the work before the council is the product of four years of what we have done in terms of implementation, terms of oversight, and the consultations that we have amongst us does reflect the contribution of the membership, the guidance of the council, the work carried out through the union’s development, radio communications, and standardization sectors.

“Our task at this session is to consider that work, identify what requires further attention, and place before the conference recommendations that are responsive to the needs of the union.”

In her remark, Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani, the Chairperson of the Administrative Council and Director-General of South Africa’s Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, emphasized the necessity for Africa to enhance regional collaboration in order to tackle the escalating economic, environmental, and technological challenges.

She pointed out that disasters related to climate change, swift technological advancements, and the ongoing repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to impact trade, investment, and economic development throughout the continent.

Jordan-Dyani asserted that fortifying the ATU would facilitate the execution of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), promote regional integration, and further the objectives of the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

She called upon governments, development partners, the private sector, academia, and civil society to collaborate in shaping the digital future of Africa.