Nigeria’s Growing Digital Divide: A Call for Strategic Investment in ICT Infrastructure

In 2023, Nigeria faced an increasingly widening digital divide, a phenomenon where access to and use of information and communication technology (ICT) is unequal, particularly between urban and rural areas.

While the country has seen rapid growth in mobile phone subscriptions, internet connectivity, and technological innovations in cities, rural communities remain at a significant disadvantage.

According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), as of 2023, over 50% of the population was still without internet access, particularly in remote and rural areas, where the lack of infrastructure, electricity, and affordability further hinders access to digital opportunities.

This digital divide has far-reaching implications for economic development, education, and healthcare in Nigeria. In 2023, Nigeria’s internet penetration rate stood at around 60%, which is quite low compared to countries like South Korea (98%) and Estonia (97%).

The absence of inclusive digital access not only impedes access to online education and business opportunities but also leaves millions of Nigerians underserved by vital health services and government programs that rely on technology.

Omowole Bamidele, an expert in the fields of microfinance, technology, and business, believes that bridging the digital divide in Nigeria is imperative for the country’s sustainable growth. According to Omowole, “The digital divide is not just a technological issue; it’s an economic and social one.

Nigeria’s future growth and resilience depend on the government and private sector working together to create an inclusive digital ecosystem that benefits all Nigerians, irrespective of their location or socio-economic background.”

He emphasizes the importance of making digital access a national priority and ensuring that rural communities are not left behind in Nigeria’s digital transformation. His insights reflect the reality that while the country has seen rapid growth in its urban areas, much of the population still struggles to access basic digital services that could significantly improve their lives.

Globally, countries like Estonia, Singapore, and South Korea have successfully integrated ICT into their national development strategies, significantly enhancing economic performance, education, and healthcare.

Estonia, often referred to as one of the most digitally advanced countries, has implemented an e-government platform that allows citizens to access public services online, reducing bureaucracy and improving efficiency.

Meanwhile, South Korea has long invested in high-speed internet infrastructure, with almost universal broadband access, making it a global leader in digital innovation.

These countries have demonstrated the positive impact of investing in ICT, showing how it can drive economic growth, improve public service delivery, and empower citizens.

On the other hand, Nigeria, despite its rapid adoption of mobile technologies, still faces significant challenges in ensuring widespread access to affordable internet services, particularly in rural areas. The disparity in digital access exacerbates existing inequalities in education, employment, and healthcare.

Rural students are often unable to participate in online learning programs, and small businesses lack the tools to expand into e-commerce or access the global market. Healthcare services, which could be delivered via telemedicine, are also less accessible to those in remote areas due to the lack of infrastructure.

Omowole Bamidele’s vision for bridging Nigeria’s digital divide centers on strategic investments in ICT infrastructure. He asserts that the government must prioritize policies that increase broadband access, especially in underserved areas, and encourage public-private partnerships to reduce the cost of internet connectivity.

He also calls for significant investments in power infrastructure, emphasizing that reliable electricity is a prerequisite for the success of digital infrastructure. “You can’t have a thriving digital economy without reliable electricity,” he says, pointing to power instability as one of the major barriers to digital inclusion in Nigeria.

Further, Bamidele believes that digital literacy must be a central focus. He stresses that providing internet access alone is not enough; there must also be a concerted effort to equip Nigerians with the skills to navigate and utilize digital platforms.

“It’s not just about providing access to the internet; it’s about ensuring that citizens are equipped with the skills to use it effectively,” he states. By integrating digital literacy programs into school curriculums and offering training for adults, Nigeria can foster a digitally empowered population capable of leveraging technology to enhance their livelihoods.

Another key aspect of Bamidele’s recommendations is the establishment of ICT hubs in rural communities. These hubs would provide essential services like internet access, training, and business support to individuals in remote areas, helping them acquire digital skills and take advantage of business opportunities.

In his view, these hubs could serve as focal points for community development, bridging the gap between Nigeria’s urban centers and rural areas.

Omowole also points to the importance of fostering innovation within Nigeria’s technology ecosystem. “Nigeria has one of the largest youth populations in the world, and this is a huge opportunity,” he says.

By creating policies that encourage innovation, particularly in ICT and fintech, Nigeria could nurture a new generation of entrepreneurs and innovators who could lead the country’s digital transformation.

He believes that the government can play a vital role by providing incentives for tech startups and supporting the growth of the digital economy through policies that reduce regulatory barriers and promote competition.

The digital divide in Nigeria remains a significant challenge, but with the right policy direction, strategic investments, and partnerships between the government, the private sector, and civil society, it is possible to bridge this gap.

By focusing on affordable internet access, digital literacy, reliable power supply, and the establishment of ICT hubs in rural areas, Nigeria can unlock the potential of its digital economy, ensuring that no one is left behind as the country continues on its path toward modernization and economic growth.

Omowole Bamidele’s insights serve as a timely reminder that in an increasingly digital world, access to technology is not just a luxury—it is a necessity for growth and development.

His call for a more inclusive digital ecosystem is a crucial part of the conversation as Nigeria works to ensure that its digital transformation benefits all of its citizens, regardless of where they live or their socio-economic background.

As the world continues to move towards an interconnected future, Nigeria must embrace digital inclusion to ensure that its citizens are prepared to compete on the global stage.