FG Launches ‘Digital Village’ in Abuja to Boost Connectivity in Rural Areas
The Federal Government has launched a ‘Digital Village’ in Ibwa 2, Kuje community of Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja. The project is aimed at bringing internet access, e-learning, and telemedicine services to people in underserved rural areas.
The initiative was led by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy in partnership with Huawei Nigeria and Globacom. It is part of the government’s efforts to close the digital gap and support national development through technology.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Dr. Bosun Tijani said over 20 million Nigerians still lack basic internet access. He explained that the ‘Digital Village’ is designed to provide free public Wi-Fi, smart classrooms, and a solar-powered health centre to improve the lives of local residents.
The school in the community has been upgraded with Huawei’s IdeaHub smart boards and internet-connected devices. Huawei also trained teachers and donated learning materials. The health centre now offers telemedicine services powered by solar energy.
Globacom’s Northwest Division Head, Kazim Kaka, said the project is a symbol of progress and a result of successful public-private collaboration.
The village chief, Alhaji Abubakar Shuaibu, thanked the government and partners, saying, “Our village looks like London today.”
The pilot project currently serves about 12,000 residents, and the government plans to expand the ‘Digital Village’ model to other rural communities across Nigeria.
