The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has praised the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for significant progress in developing a regulatory framework for the establishment of Community Networks across Nigeria.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, YZ Ya’u, and made available to newsmen, CITAD lauded the NCC’s public acknowledgment of ongoing collaboration with CITAD and other stakeholders to advance the initiative.
The development marks an important milestone in efforts to address persistent connectivity gaps, particularly in underserved and unserved communities.
Community Networks, CITAD explained, are a critical solution for expanding affordable, inclusive, and locally-driven access to communication services in areas where commercial operators have limited presence.
A clear regulatory framework, the organisation noted, would empower communities and support national objectives around digital inclusion, innovation, and socio-economic development.
CITAD has consistently advocated for Community Networks as a people-centered approach to bridging Nigeria’s digital divide.
The organisation welcomed the NCC’s commitment to engaging stakeholders in the coming period to finalise and operationalise the framework.
The group urged the Commission to ensure that the framework is inclusive, flexible, and supportive of non-profit and community-led initiatives, while providing clear pathways for licensing, spectrum access, and technical support.
CITAD reaffirmed its readiness to continue collaborating with the NCC, government agencies, civil society, and local communities to ensure that Community Networks become a practical and impactful reality across the country.
“This is a significant step toward making digital access more equitable and ensuring that communities previously left behind can benefit from affordable and reliable communication services,” the statement added.