Tinubu directs prioritization of digital infrastructure investments to enhance business efficiency

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President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, along with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Federal Ministry of Environment, to synchronize regulations and tax frameworks.

This action aims to streamline investment expansion in telecommunications and broadband infrastructure across Nigeria.

Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, revealed that the President issued this directive during a meeting with a delegation from American Tower Corporation (ATC) Nigeria at the State House in Abuja.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the slow permit issuance process for companies in the digital infrastructure sector, President Tinubu urged for more efficiency.

Marek Busfy, CEO of ATC Africa, reaffirmed ATC Nigeria’s commitment to investing in the country’s ICT sector, which has already surpassed $2.19 billion since 2015. He also emphasized ATC’s dedication to providing value to subscribers while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

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President Tinubu commended ATC Nigeria for its contributions to the ICT sector and highlighted the importance of innovative solutions in bridging the digital divide.

Tinubu outlined ongoing initiatives, including the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, aimed at upskilling Nigerian youths in digital literacy and innovation, as well as plans to establish broadband connectivity in all 774 local government secretariats within six months.

Addressing concerns about the ease of doing business in Nigeria, Tinubu assured the delegation of his administration’s commitment to implementing reforms to eliminate bureaucratic constraints.

In response to a request for a reduction in withholding tax for telecommunications companies, Tinubu stated that the FIRS would review the matter to find a solution beneficial to both investors and Nigerians.

CEO of ATC Africa reiterated the company’s readiness to invest further in Nigeria’s ICT infrastructure while praising the administration’s strategy, particularly highlighting the efforts of the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.