Internet affordability: Nigeria ranks third in Africa

The Alliance for Affordable Internet has recently released its Internet Affordability Drivers Index, ranking Nigeria third in Africa. This ranking sheds light on the country's progress in making the internet more accessible to its citizens. Onica Makwakwa, the Africa Regional Coordinator at the Alliance for Affordable Internet, emphasized the importance of improving internet accessibility in Nigeria, highlighting the transformative impact it can have on people's lives. Makwakwa pointed out that while 47% of Nigerians are online, there is still a significant portion of the population that remains offline, underscoring the urgent need to address this digital divide. Makwakwa noted that the internet is a crucial tool for lifting people out of poverty and should be treated as a basic utility akin to water and electricity. She emphasized the importance of government support in creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in the digital space. Makwakwa highlighted the role of the Alliance for Affordable Internet in bringing together various stakeholders, including governments, the private sector, and civil society, to collaborate on improving internet affordability and access. One key challenge discussed in the interview was the issue of income inequality and its impact on internet affordability. Makwakwa referenced the UN's target of providing access to half a gig of data per month for no more than 5% of the average monthly income. However, she noted that this target is not being met in many countries, highlighting the need for more affordable internet options, especially for low-income and poor individuals. Makwakwa shared a poignant story of a young boy in South Africa who expressed how being online offered him an escape from the harsh reality of his living conditions, illustrating the transformative power of internet access. In terms of policy recommendations, Makwakwa stressed the importance of public access initiatives as a means to bridge the digital divide. She cited the example of Botswana, which improved its ranking by focusing on public access initiatives through public-private partnerships. By providing internet access in public spaces such as bus stops, libraries, and schools, countries can make connectivity more accessible to those who may not be able to afford it at home. Overall, the interview with Onica Makwakwa highlighted the critical role of internet affordability in addressing poverty and driving socio-economic development in Nigeria and across Africa. As the country strives to improve its internet infrastructure and policies, ensuring equal access for all remains a top priority for stakeholders in the digital ecosystem.