FG launches initiative to provide all LGAs with internet connection

By Abubakar Yunusa

The federal government has launched a project to provide reliable internet connectivity to 774 local government areas (LGAs) in Nigeria.
Announcing the initiative called ‘Project 774 LG Connectivity’ in a post via X on Monday, Bosun Tijani, minister of communications, innovation and digital economy, said the project aligned with his ministry’s strategic blueprint and is a significant step in achieving President Bola Tinubu’s mandate to deliver efficient public service to Nigerians at the LG level.
In another statement on Monday by Isime Esene, media communications aide to the minister of communications, he said the connectivity was targeted at fostering inclusive development and access to digital public infrastructure in government offices nationwide.
Esene said the project will leverage the existing infrastructure of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NigComSat) and Galaxy Backbone to provide connectivity across the country.
“Project 774 LG Connectivity will create, at least, 300 direct jobs, as we deploy nationwide and potentially more jobs indirectly from the increase in digital access,” Esene 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.”
Also, 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.