ABUJA — In a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and enhance internet connectivity, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) earlier this week hosted the Board of the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN) at its headquarters in Abuja.
The high-level engagement focused on advancing key initiatives to position Nigeria’s digital economy for global competitiveness, with emphasis on improving local internet traffic exchange, reducing latency, promoting indigenous content development, and expanding broadband access nationwide.
Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, who received the IXPN delegation, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to deepening partnerships that will drive the growth of Nigeria’s internet ecosystem. He noted that efficient internet exchange systems are central to data sovereignty, digital inclusion, and reducing the cost of internet access across the country.
“The Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria is a vital pillar in our collective effort to localise internet traffic and build a more resilient and affordable digital infrastructure,” Dr. Maida said. “The NCC is determined to support the IXPN in its mandate to expand interconnection facilities across regions.”
On their part, the IXPN Board, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Muhammed Rudman, acknowledged the NCC’s ongoing support and outlined plans to establish more regional exchange points, foster collaborations with educational and research institutions, and enable seamless interconnection for ISPs and content providers.
The meeting also discussed policy frameworks that will encourage private sector investment in Nigeria’s internet backbone and ensure sustainability in digital growth.
With over 160 million active internet users, Nigeria remains one of Africa’s largest and fastest-growing digital markets. The NCC and IXPN’s renewed cooperation is expected to accelerate the development of a home-grown digital economy, reduce reliance on foreign bandwidth, and enhance Nigeria’s digital sovereignty.
The outcome of the meeting signals a shared commitment by key industry players to ensure that Nigeria continues to leverage technology for economic transformation, innovation, and inclusive growth.
