By David Akinmola
Nigeria is losing an estimated $15 billion yearly due to low broadband penetration and limited digital infrastructure, a telecom expert, Yinka Isioye, has said.
Speaking during a recent industry dialogue on digital inclusion in Abuja, Isioye described the country’s broadband deficit as a major threat to economic growth and a key obstacle to achieving a digitally driven economy. He said Nigeria’s failure to meet broadband targets continues to cost the country in productivity, job creation, and innovation.
“The economy is bleeding,” Isioye said. “The lack of affordable, high-speed internet in rural and underserved areas is costing Nigeria at least $15 billion every year. This is no longer a challenge; it’s a national emergency.”
According to him, while broadband penetration has marginally improved—hovering around 45 percent—it remains well below the 70 percent target set in the National Broadband Plan (2020–2025). The digital gap, he noted, particularly affects millions in remote areas, where internet access is either too expensive or non-existent.
Telecom industry reports show that the cost of deploying broadband infrastructure in rural communities is significantly higher, due in part to high Right-of-Way charges, vandalism, and regulatory hurdles across states. In some areas, RoW fees exceed ₦20,000 per meter, stalling fiber rollout by operators.
Isioye called for urgent investment in digital infrastructure, a harmonised national policy on Right-of-Way, and public-private partnerships to support affordable access for all.
He warned that unless the government and stakeholders take bold action, Nigeria risks falling further behind in the global digital economy.
“Bridging the broadband gap is not just about internet access—it’s about unlocking the full potential of the Nigerian economy,” he added.
