Digital innovation key to economic growth of Plateau, says NCC
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed that digital innovation is central to Plateau State’s growth, pledging to expand broadband access to underserved communities to enhance connectivity and economic opportunities.
The commitment was highlighted on Monday during a courtesy visit by the NCC Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, to Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, at the Government House in Jos.
Makama described Plateau as a strategic partner in Nigeria’s national broadband agenda, pointing to its educational institutions, growing innovation ecosystem, and youthful population as critical drivers of digital transformation.
She warned that despite the state’s potential, many rural local government areas remain underserved, limiting access to opportunities that robust connectivity could unlock. “Many rural LGAs remain cut off from the digital economy that could transform their livelihoods,” she said.
Highlighting the role of digital innovation in fostering growth, Makama noted that the NCC is exploring ways to align its mandate with the state’s development agenda, including supporting the implementation of Right of Way policies and leveraging the Universal Service Provision Fund to reach underserved communities.
Governor Mutfwang welcomed the commission’s recognition of Plateau’s digital potential, describing the visit as timely and in line with his administration’s declaration of 2025 as the year of digital innovation.
He stressed the importance of translating policy into practical action, citing ongoing collaborations to establish innovation hubs, including a partnership with the United Nations Development Programme at Plateau State Polytechnic.
The governor also announced plans for a Business Process Outsourcing programme aimed at creating jobs for at least 500 young people in Jos, emphasising the urgency of seizing time-sensitive opportunities to strengthen the state’s position in the digital economy.
