By Prince Osuagwu

How to weave an enduring strategy to expanding Nigeria’s rapidly growing internet infrastructure became the major discussion as key stakeholders in Africa’s internet ecosystem gathered in Lagos for the Nigerian Peering and Interconnection Forum, ngPIF, recently.

 The event which was hosted by Nigerian Network Operator Group, ngNOG and the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria, IXPN, attracted government officials, industry leaders, and technology experts who are committed to enhancing digital connectivity in Nigeria.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who spoke on the critical role of internet connectivity in driving Nigeria’s economic growth and development, promised that Lagos State Government will do everything possible to foster digital inclusion and expand infrastructure in the state.

Sanwo-Olu  who was represented by Ganiyu Oseni, Senior Adviser on Technology, Broadband & Innovation, added: “Digital connectivity is not just a tool for communication; it is a catalyst for economic transformation,” Oseni said on behalf of the governor. “We are committed to supporting initiatives like ngPIF that push the boundaries of digital infrastructure and bring the benefits of connectivity to all Nigerians.”

The two-day forum featured a series of panel discussions and workshops, with participants focusing on key topics such as peering, interconnection, data centers, and the role of government in creating a conducive environment for digital innovation. National Coordinator of ngPIF, Prof. Wale Adedokun, disclosed the forum’s mission to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide, particularly between urban and rural areas, saying: “The essence of ngPIF is to foster collaboration among stakeholders to ensure internet resources are more accessible and affordable across Nigeria.”

Also, Muhammed Rudman, CEO of IXPN, emphasized the importance of rural connectivity to ensure that all citizens can access the digital economy.  He said: “The government’s support is crucial for expanding internet access in underserved areas, particularly through mechanisms like the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF)”.

That is also as Ayotunde Coker, CEO of Open Access Data Centre (OADC), highlighted ngPIF’s role in building a robust peering community that includes infrastructure providers, content creators, service providers, and policymakers.

He said: “This forum has evolved into a vibrant community dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s interconnection and peering infrastructure, putting the country on the global digital map”