Nigeria Commissions First NUCAP Telecom Tower in Abia to Expand Digital Connectivity
The Federal Government has commissioned the first telecommunications tower under the Nigeria Universal Communication Access Project (NUCAP) in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, marking a significant step towards bridging the country’s digital divide.
The tower was commissioned on October 16, 2026, as part of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy’s efforts to extend telecommunications services to underserved communities across Nigeria.
Led by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, NUCAP is designed to deploy 3,700 telecommunications towers nationwide, with the aim of extending connectivity to approximately 20 million Nigerians currently without access.
The initiative is expected to create new opportunities for rural farmers, small businesses and underserved communities by improving access to markets, digital payment systems, education, healthcare, information and other essential services.
For rural farmers, improved connectivity can facilitate access to market information and customers, while small businesses can benefit from digital transactions and opportunities to reach wider markets.
The project goes beyond telecommunications infrastructure, representing an investment in communities, economic growth and Nigeria’s digital future.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NIGCOMSAT Limited, Jane Egerton-Idehen, joined Tijani and residents of Bende at the commissioning ceremony.
NIGCOMSAT Limited said universal connectivity remains essential to building a digitally inclusive, economically competitive and resilient Nigeria, stressing that geographical location should not prevent citizens from accessing opportunities.
The project also aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambition of building a $1 trillion economy, with expanded digital access expected to support economic participation and ensure more Nigerians can contribute to and benefit from national development.
With the commissioning of the first tower, NUCAP has taken an important step towards expanding digital inclusion and connecting more communities to Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
Nigeria Commissions First NUCAP Telecom Tower in Abia to Expand Digital Connectivity