senate
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and the Digital Economy has been urged by the Senate to immediately work with telecom companies to examine the recent surge in data prices and make sure that prices are reasonable and accessible to all Nigerians.
The Upper Chamber also urged the Ministry to develop a policy framework for affordable internet services in Nigeria. Additionally, it called on the federal government to establish and support tech hubs across the country, providing free or subsidized internet access to young entrepreneurs, students, and innovators.
These resolutions were adopted following a motion titled, “Urgent Need to Address the Increased Cost of Data Services in Nigeria,” sponsored by Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo (APC, Cross River South).
The Senate further mandated its Committee on Communications to investigate the factors driving the high cost of data and recommend solutions for a sustainable and business-friendly telecommunications sector.
Additionally, the Senate called for immediate government intervention to address the challenges of doing business in Nigeria, particularly in the ICT and telecommunications sectors, to prevent further cost increases that could negatively impact economic growth.
In his presentation, Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo expressed concerns that telecommunications providers in Nigeria recently increased data service costs by as much as 200%, placing a significant financial burden on millions of Nigerians.
He noted that young Nigerians rely heavily on the internet for their livelihood, engaging in digital economy activities such as:
Freelancing and remote work
Digital marketing and social media management
E-commerce and online trading
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