The National Strategy for Community-Centred Connectivity Initiatives in Nigeria is a comprehensive framework designed to help address the critical need for digital connectivity in underserved and unserved areas. This strategy culminates extensive work and input from the APC LocNet Team and its National Advisory Committee for Community Networks in Nigeria (NACN). The strategy also incorporates additional insights, research and feedback gathered from stakeholders during the pre-event of 25 September 2024, and the pre-convening of 16 October 2024.
This document serves as a guide for those involved in community-centred connectivity initiatives (CCCIs) across Nigeria, facilitating collective efforts towards digital inclusion. The LocNet initiative plays a pivotal role in providing mutual spaces, fostering collaboration on various activities and identifying links to support partnerships among community networks. With a strong foundation of CCC partners dedicated to bridging the digital divide, this strategy outlines possible pathways of change over the next 36 months, emphasising community-driven efforts and sustainable solutions.
The primary objective of this comprehensive National Strategy document is to enable the emergence of sustainable community-centred connectivity initiatives through the implementation of achievable work packages and their underlying tasks. It is derived from the companion Synthesis Document and pools together the insights and knowledge of stakeholders within the community networks landscape, gathered through a series of interviews conducted between July and October 2024. It is structured around six strategic priorities, each accompanied by corresponding work packages. These priorities and work packages are meticulously crafted to ensure a holistic and sustainable approach to community-centred connectivity solutions. The strategic priorities aim to:
- Create an enabling policy and regulatory environment for community-centred connectivity initiatives.
- Foster increased investment in digital infrastructure supportive of community- centred connectivity initiatives.
- Build community capacity for managing and sustaining community-centred connectivity initiatives.
- Promote digital inclusion and the development of the digital economy across all demographics.
- Develop robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.
- Establish strong partnerships with various stakeholders.
The adoption and implementation of this National Strategy present a significant opportunity to unlock the potential of community-centred connectivity solutions in Nigeria. By addressing the multifaceted challenges of digital connectivity through a holistic and sustainable approach, this strategy aims to enhance social and economic opportunities for all Nigerians living in unserved and underserved areas. Local social entrepreneurs, civil society, grassroots communities and local governments are suitable and capable partners in bridging the digital divide, bringing connectivity, inclusion and ultimately an improved quality of life to previously excluded persons. This National Strategy seeks not only to bridge the digital divide but also to empower communities, foster innovation and drive inclusive growth. With the support and collaboration of all stakeholders, we are confident that this strategy will pave the way for a digitally inclusive Nigeria, where every community has access to the transformative power of the internet.
The document is divided into four main sections:
- Overview of the National Strategy: This section reviews the six strategic priorities, elucidating the rationale behind each strategic option.
- Work packages and tasks: This section details the work packages and tasks required to achieve the strategic priorities.
- Operationalising the National Strategy: This section outlines the steps to ensure that the strategic priorities are translated into actionable and measurable outcomes.
- Establishing feedback mechanisms: This section explains the processes for institutionalising regular feedback loops through the National Advisory Committee (NACN), ensuring continuous improvement, transparency and accountability throughout the implementation process.