Naija’s Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap in Internet Access

Introduction

Nigeria, commonly referred to as “Naija,” is a country teeming with potential and brimming with digital aspirations. Yet, as the world hurtles towards an increasingly connected future, many Nigerians remain cut off from the benefits of the digital age due to a significant digital divide. This digital divide in Nigeria—the gap between those with access to the internet and digital technologies and those without—is most evident in the contrast between urban areas, which enjoy relatively robust internet access, and rural regions, where connectivity issues persist. This divide poses a serious challenge to the nation’s social and economic development.

In this article, we’ll explore the digital divide in Nigeria, examining the factors contributing to this gap, its impact on society, and the efforts being made to bridge it. We’ll also look at innovative solutions that could help close the gap, ensuring that all Nigerians can participate in the digital economy.

Understanding the Digital Divide in Naija

The digital divide in Nigeria refers to the disparity between different regions and demographics regarding access to digital technologies, particularly the internet. This divide is not merely a technical issue but a multifaceted problem that encompasses economic, social, and educational inequalities. The term “digital divide” also refers to the gap between those who can benefit from the internet and those who are disadvantaged by its absence.

In Nigeria, the digital divide manifests in various ways, from differences in internet speed and quality between urban and rural areas to the lack of digital literacy among certain populations. This divide hampers access to information, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, making it a significant barrier to the nation’s progress.

Current State of Internet Access in Nigeria

a. Urban vs. Rural Connectivity

Current state of Digital divide in Nigeria

Nigeria has made strides in expanding internet access over the past decade. However, a stark contrast exists between urban and rural areas. In cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, internet access is relatively widespread, with multiple service providers offering competitive broadband and mobile data packages. These urban areas benefit from better infrastructure, higher disposable incomes, and a tech-savvy population.

In contrast, rural areas often suffer from poor or nonexistent internet connectivity. The lack of infrastructure, such as fiber optic cables and cellular towers, coupled with lower income levels, means that many rural Nigerians remain disconnected from the internet. According to a report by the National Bureau of Statistics, as of 2022, only about 40% of Nigeria’s rural population had access to the internet, compared to over 80% in urban areas .

b. Broadband Penetration

Broadband penetration is another key indicator of the digital divide in Nigeria. While mobile internet access has grown rapidly, broadband penetration remains low. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) reported that broadband penetration stood at around 45% in 2023, far below the global average of 60%. This low penetration rate is largely due to high costs, inadequate infrastructure, and limited availability of broadband services outside major cities.

Broadband access is critical for a range of online activities, including remote work, online education, and e-commerce. The lack of broadband connectivity in many parts of Nigeria limits the ability of individuals and businesses to fully engage with the digital economy.

Factors Contributing to the Digital Divide

a. Economic Barriers

Economic inequality is one of the primary drivers of the digital divide in Nigeria. Many Nigerians, particularly in rural areas, cannot afford the cost of internet services, devices, or the electricity needed to power them. The high cost of smartphones, laptops, and data plans makes digital access a luxury that many cannot afford. According to the World Bank, nearly 40% of Nigerians live below the poverty line, which directly impacts their ability to access digital technologies .

b. Infrastructure Challenges

Infrastructure deficits are another major obstacle. Nigeria’s vast and diverse geography makes it challenging to deploy the necessary infrastructure for widespread internet access. Many rural areas lack the basic infrastructure, such as roads and electricity, needed to support internet connectivity. Additionally, the high cost of deploying fiber optic cables and maintaining cellular towers in remote areas has deterred investment from both the public and private sectors.

c. Educational Disparities

Digital literacy is crucial for individuals to effectively use the internet and digital technologies. In Nigeria, there is a significant gap in digital literacy levels, particularly between urban and rural populations. Many rural schools lack the resources, such as computers and trained teachers, needed to impart digital skills to students. This educational disparity further widens the digital divide, as those without digital literacy are unable to fully benefit from internet access even when it is available.

d. Gender Inequality

Gender inequality also plays a role in the digital divide in Nigeria. Women and girls, particularly in rural areas, are less likely to have access to the internet and digital devices compared to their male counterparts. Cultural norms, financial constraints, and limited educational opportunities contribute to this gender gap. According to a study by the Web Foundation, women in Nigeria are 50% less likely to use the internet compared to men, highlighting a significant digital gender divide .

Impact of the Digital Divide on Society

a. Economic Impact

The digital divide has far-reaching economic consequences for Nigeria. The inability to access the internet limits opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Small businesses in rural areas, for example, struggle to reach a wider market due to the lack of online presence. Furthermore, the digital divide exacerbates income inequality, as those with internet access are better positioned to benefit from the digital economy, leaving others behind.

b. Educational Impact

Education is one of the areas most affected by the digital divide. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical importance of internet access for remote learning. Students in urban areas with reliable internet could continue their education online, while those in rural areas without internet access were left behind. This educational gap has long-term implications for the country’s development, as it perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality.

The digital divide also has social and cultural implications. Access to the internet is increasingly seen as a fundamental right, essential for participation in modern society. The lack of internet access isolates individuals and communities, limiting their ability to access information, communicate with others, and engage in cultural and social activities. This isolation can lead to a sense of marginalization and exclusion, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Government and Private Sector Initiatives to Bridge the Gap

a. Government Policies and Projects

The Nigerian government has recognized the importance of bridging the digital divide and has implemented several policies and projects aimed at expanding internet access. The National Broadband Plan 2020-2025, for example, aims to achieve 70% broadband penetration by 2025. The government has also introduced initiatives such as the Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, which focuses on improving digital literacy and infrastructure across the country .

One of the key projects under this strategy is the deployment of broadband infrastructure to rural areas through public-private partnerships. The Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) is also working to increase internet access in underserved areas by subsidizing the cost of infrastructure deployment.

b. Private Sector Contributions

A collage photo of MTN, GLO, 9MOBILE and Aitel

The private sector has played a crucial role in addressing the digital divide in Nigeria. Telecommunications companies such as MTN, Airtel, and Glo have invested heavily in expanding their networks to reach more rural areas. These companies have also introduced affordable data plans and devices aimed at making internet access more accessible to low-income populations.

Additionally, tech companies like Google and Facebook have launched initiatives to improve internet access in Nigeria. Google’s Project Loon, for example, aims to provide internet access to remote areas using high-altitude balloons, while Facebook’s Free Basics program offers free access to a limited range of internet services in partnership with local telecom operators.

Innovative Solutions and Future Outlook

a. Community Networks and Local Solutions

One of the most promising approaches to bridging the digital divide in Nigeria is the development of community networks. These are locally owned and operated networks that provide internet access to underserved areas. Community networks leverage local resources and knowledge to build and maintain the necessary infrastructure, often at a lower cost than traditional models.

Organizations such as the Association for Progressive Communications (APC) have been working to promote and support the development of community networks in Nigeria and other parts of Africa. These networks empower communities to take control of their own connectivity, ensuring that the benefits of the internet are shared more equitably.

b. The Role of 5G Technology

The introduction of 5G technology in Nigeria presents both opportunities and challenges for bridging the digital divide. On the one hand, 5G offers the potential for faster and more reliable internet access, which could significantly improve connectivity in underserved areas. However, the rollout of 5G requires significant investment in infrastructure, which may be difficult to justify in areas with low population density and limited purchasing power.

To ensure that 5G benefits all Nigerians, it will be important for the government and private sector to collaborate on strategies for deploying the technology in a way that prioritizes inclusivity. This may involve targeted investments in rural areas, as well as efforts to make 5G-enabled devices and services more affordable.

c. Public-Private Partnerships

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are likely to play a key role in bridging the digital divide in Nigeria. By combining the resources and expertise of both the public and private sectors, PPPs can help to overcome the financial and logistical challenges associated with expanding internet access to underserved areas. Successful PPPs will require a clear alignment of interests and a commitment to ensuring that the benefits of connectivity are shared broadly across society.

Conclusion

Bridging the digital divide in Nigeria is not just a matter of expanding internet access; it is about ensuring that all Nigerians have the opportunity to participate fully in the digital economy. This will require a multi-faceted approach that addresses the economic, infrastructural, educational, and social barriers to connectivity. While significant challenges remain, there are also many promising initiatives underway that could help to close the gap. By working together, the government, private sector, and civil society can create a more inclusive digital future for Nigeria.

References

National Bureau of Statistics. (2022). “Nigeria’s Rural Connectivity Report.”
Nigerian Communications Commission. (2023). “Broadband Penetration in Nigeria: A Report.”
Nigerian Government. (2020). “National Broadband Plan 2020-2025.”