Nigeria is easing regulations for internet service providers (ISPs) in a bid to connect more of its vast population to the internet. This move comes as a major American player strengthens its hold on the market through a partnership with a local provider.

US internet service provider (ISP) Parallel Wireless is teaming up with Nigeria's Hotspot Network Limited to bring connectivity to 500 rural areas, the companies announced last week.

The partnership, announced last week, aims to improve the quality of life for millions by enabling access to essential services like healthcare, education, and finance in underserved regions. The project will leverage both 2G and 4G technologies "to connect as many residents as possible," said Yisrael Nov, Parallel Wireless' executive vice president of worldwide sales.

The initiative aligns with Nigeria's broader ambitions for digital transformation. As one of Africa's most mature tech ecosystems, the country aims to bridge the digital divide and maximize the impact of its technology policies. President Bola Tinubu's administration has set an ambitious target of connecting 70% of the population to broadband by 2025.

With a population of over 220 million, Nigeria boasts the largest consumer market in Africa. However, internet penetration remains uneven, with rural areas significantly lagging behind urban centers. As of 2023, only 55.3% of Nigerians had internet access, according to data from DataReportal.

Adoni Conrad Quenum