The House of Representatives has begun efforts to provide free internet services in selected public places across Nigeria. This initiative follows the recent passage of a bill titled “An Act to provide the legal framework for the free internet access programme in selected public places in Nigeria.” The bill was sponsored by Mr. Abubakar Kusada, who represents the Kankia/Ingawa/Kusada Federal Constituency in Katsina State.
In support of the bill, Kusada highlighted the importance of information and communications technology in nation-building. He emphasized the need for a policy that “promotes an environment for the development of structures that would ensure availability and accessibility to reliable and secure internet access.”
According to a copy of the bill, public places that would be included in this initiative are federal, state, and local government offices, secondary and tertiary educational institutions, and public hospitals, including health centers in rural areas. Other locations covered by the bill include police and military barracks, public parks, libraries, airports, and transport terminals.
The bill states that users will not be charged any fees to connect to the public internet access points. It also makes it clear that the free internet service will be separate from the internet used for official government operations. The bill includes provisions for maintaining secure access while promoting ease of use.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) will be responsible for setting standards and determining which public places will receive priority for the program’s rollout. The NCC and NITDA will also oversee the implementation of the program, ensuring that it operates effectively and efficiently.
Within one year of the law’s commencement, the NCC and NITDA must develop a comprehensive plan to roll out the free internet access program. They are required to coordinate with various levels of government and relevant organizations to integrate this initiative into existing plans and budgets.
The bill also establishes that the minimum internet speed for users should be two megabytes per second, or higher, as outlined in the National Broadband Plan. To enhance service delivery, the bill encourages partnerships with the private sector for efficient implementation.
Overall, the proposal aims to improve internet access in Nigeria, especially in underserved areas, and promote digital inclusion across the country.
