Nigéria
Internet connectivity is becoming part and parcel of humans’ lives all over the globe, but the story in underdeveloped countries is different and not encouraging. With persistent engagement and advocacy visits by CITAD, progress on setting up community networks in Nigeria has been made.
As the Nigerian telecoms regulator is reviewing its licensing processes, CITAD is calling for the inclusion of community networks as a special category of licences to help reach the more than 50% of Nigerians who still have no access to the internet, which has become more vital than ever.
How are APC members improving their communities’ lives? For CITAD, this has manifested in the development of numerous projects aimed at bridging digital divides and empowering local communities in Nigeria.
APC joins in the condemnation of the suspension of Twitter services in Nigeria, and considers that this measure not only limits Nigerian citizens' exercise of their right to access information, but also other rights including freedom of expression, privacy, and freedom of assembly and association.
How are APC members improving their communities’ lives? Fantsuam Foundation works on empowering community members, particularly women, to find means of employment and income to meet their own development needs using ICTs.
In this interview with AfriSIG organiser Koliwe Majama, Gbenga talks about policy making and leadership in Africa, and in particular, the lobbying for the Digital Rights Bill in Nigeria, in which his organisation, Paradigm Initiative, has played a major role.
The #KeepItOn Coalition, made up by more than 180 organisations from over 68 countries, including APC, calls on the Nigerian authorities to keep the internet open during the upcoming elections in the country.