Reps to Investigate Non-Availability of Telecom Services in rural communities.
The House of Representatives yesterday agreed to investigate the reasons behind the non-availability of telecommunication services to more than 200 rural communities across the six geo-political zones in the country.
The House acted on a Motion sponsored by the member representing Esan West, Esan Central and Igueben Federal Constituency, Edo state, Rep. Joe Edionwele titled; “The Non Availability of Telecommunications Services in More than Two Hundred Rural Communities Spread Across the Six Geopolitical Zones in Nigeria.”
According to the PDP lawmaker, he recalls that about 15 years ago, the Federal Government liberalized the telecommunications sector which opened a flood gate of investments in the sector; Noting that the liberalization was equivalent to a telecommunications revolution which transformed the way people do business, communicate and live their lives, but ironically, most Nigerians who live in the rural areas have not been part of this revolution as they have remained “marginalized.”
According to the PDP lawmaker, he recalls that about 15 years ago, the Federal Government liberalized the telecommunications sector which opened a flood gate of investments in the sector; Noting that the liberalization was equivalent to a telecommunications revolution which transformed the way people do business, communicate and live their lives, but ironically, most Nigerians who live in the rural areas have not been part of this revolution as they have remained “marginalized.”
Edionwele disclosed that the Federal Government recently identified over two hundred and seven subsidy clusters across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria where telecoms services are not available.
Also the further investigation carried out showed that over 36.8 million Nigerians were still living in the “dark”, completely cut off from the super highway of the telecommunications revolution that swept across the country like a hurricane.
He expressed concerned about the refusal of operators of the telecommunications networks to invest in providing services to rural communities which may, essentially be due to pecuniary considerations.
He noted that the provision of these services to the rural communities would ultimately enhance exploitation of the economic potentials of the communities and improve the standards of living of the rural dwellers.
The House in a unanimous voice vote agreed to the Prayers in the Motion and therefore resolved that the Nigeria Communications Commission synergize with telecommunications operators with a view of making telecoms services available to the rural populace.
Also, that the Federal Government extend the National Electricity grid to every nook and cranny of the country, to reduce infrastructural investment costs by Telecom Operators in providing services to rural communities as well as providing them electricity for improved economic activities.
Finally, the House mandated the Committees on Telecommunications, and Power to ensure adherence and report back to the House within eight (8) weeks for further legislative action.
Also the further investigation carried out showed that over 36.8 million Nigerians were still living in the “dark”, completely cut off from the super highway of the telecommunications revolution that swept across the country like a hurricane.
He expressed concerned about the refusal of operators of the telecommunications networks to invest in providing services to rural communities which may, essentially be due to pecuniary considerations.
He noted that the provision of these services to the rural communities would ultimately enhance exploitation of the economic potentials of the communities and improve the standards of living of the rural dwellers.
The House in a unanimous voice vote agreed to the Prayers in the Motion and therefore resolved that the Nigeria Communications Commission synergize with telecommunications operators with a view of making telecoms services available to the rural populace.
Also, that the Federal Government extend the National Electricity grid to every nook and cranny of the country, to reduce infrastructural investment costs by Telecom Operators in providing services to rural communities as well as providing them electricity for improved economic activities.
Finally, the House mandated the Committees on Telecommunications, and Power to ensure adherence and report back to the House within eight (8) weeks for further legislative action.
