Lack of ICT infrastructure 'holding Nigeria back'

4 November 2009

ICT shortcomings are keeping the Nigerian economy from fully developing, it has been suggested.

Both the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) were quoted by Nigerian newpaper Next as expressing this opinion at the opening of the recent ComBIT meeting.

Ernest Ndukwe, executive vice-chairman of the former body, said at this government-endorsed ICT conference that what is most needed is affordable bandwidth, increased penetration and a development of fibre optics.

Also, existing networks need to be rehabilitated in order to bear the strain of growing traffic volume.

He explained these steps could not be neglected as they were vital to creating a sustainable and viable national economy.

"This is because ICT provides a veritable platform for development across the social, economic, political and other sectors if well harnessed," Mr Ndukwe added.

In a similar meeting in Senegal of pan-African government leaders, ministers highlighted the need to work towards a reduction of internet costs in the entire continent, reported the Agence de Presse Senegalaise.

Category: ICT