The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has launched a project that will provide reliable internet connectivity to the 774 local government areas of the country.
The Media and Communications aide to the minister, Mr. Isime Esene, announced this in a statement yesterday in Abuja.
Esene said the connectivity was targeted at fostering inclusive development and access to digital public infrastructure in government offices all over the country.
He said the hitherto underserved or un-served remote areas of the country would benefit from the project.
According to him, the project will leverage existing infrastructure of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NigComSat) and Galaxy Backbone to provide the connectivity across the country.
“Project 774 local government connectivity will create, at least, 300 direct jobs, as we deploy nationwide and potentially more jobs indirectly from the increase in digital access,” he said.
“It also aligns with our ministry’s strategic blueprint and it is a significant step toward achieving the present administration’s mandate to deliver efficient public service to citizens at the local government level.
“Through strategic partnerships and the deployment of cutting-edge technology, the project will provide resources and promote transparency in service delivery, stimulate economic growth and improve citizen engagement.
“The project is expected to drive transformation and unlock opportunities that will deliver sustainable development to all through the power of connectivity,” he said.
Esene said healthcare, education, infrastructural development, social welfare programmes and local government administration are critical to delivering government services as well as driving economic progress and development across the country.