By Oso Abidemi
The West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Association (WATRA), has commended Nigeria for its leadership in broadband infrastructure mapping, describing it as a model for the continent.
The recognition followed the successful hosting of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Africa Broadband Mapping (BBMaps), national event in Abuja, a milestone in the pilot phase of the Africa-BB-Maps initiative.
The four-year programme (2025–2028), funded by the European Union, seeks to support 11 Sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria, in developing harmonized broadband mapping systems to drive digital growth and investment.
WATRA’s Executive Secretary, Aliyu Yusuf Aboki, praised Nigeria’s transparent framework, noting that data-driven policymaking can bridge connectivity gaps and foster inclusive digital economies.
“This initiative is more than mapping, it’s about enabling investment, expanding opportunity, and achieving our collective digital aspirations,” Aboki said.
Participants highlighted the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)’s broadband mapping system as a continental benchmark, with calls for a National Broadband Mapping Task Force to be chaired by the NCC.
The initiative aligns with the Africa-Europe Digital Regulators Partnership and the EU Global Gateway Strategy, both promoting sustainable digital infrastructure and regional integration.
