- The bill ensures no fees will be charged to users
The Nigerian House of Representatives has taken initial steps to provide free internet services in public spaces, including hospitals, following the first reading of a bill titled “An Act to provide the legal framework for the free internet access programme in selected public places in Nigeria.”
The bill, sponsored by Mr. Abubakar Kusada (Kankia/Ingawa/Kusada Federal Constituency, Katsina State), aims to enhance access to reliable and secure internet services across the country.
Public places covered under the proposed law include government offices, schools, hospitals, police and military barracks, public parks, airports, and transport terminals.
The bill ensures no fees will be charged to users and mandates that technical solutions prioritize ease of access while addressing security concerns.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) are to lead the implementation, working with other relevant agencies to develop a comprehensive plan for the rollout within a year of the bill’s commencement.
The bill encourages partnerships with the private sector to enhance service delivery, with a minimum internet speed of 2 Mbps guaranteed for users.