High Cost of Data, Devices Hindering Business Access, Expert Warns

Omolabake Fasogbon

Nigeria’s ambition to become a leading digital economy is being threatened by high cost of internet data and devices that continues to limit business access, Chief Executive Officer of Quomodo Systems Africa, Oluwole Asalu has warned.

Speaking against the backdrop of recent figures released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), indicating a broadband penetration increase to 48.15% in April 2025 from 44% in December 2024, Asalu stressed that the current progress is not enough.

“This figure remains well below the 70% national target and represents more than a statistical shortfall. It’s a foundational gap that is stifling innovation, restricting business growth, and excluding millions from the digital economy,” he said.

He maintained that digital infrastructure, including affordable broadband, reliable power supply, accessible data centers, and seamless cloud integration must be treated as national priorities.

 “Without this infrastructure, our investments in artificial intelligence, fintech, cybersecurity, and remote work will remain fragmented and fail to deliver at scale,” he pointed out. 

The tech expert in a media parley in Lagos, recently commended the just launched National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN), however  worried that its goals are being undercut by obstacles such as Right of Way (RoW) charges imposed by some state governments. 

 “Even with nearly 29% of Nigerians using the internet regularly, many more are left out because of high data prices and expensive smartphones. We need to reduce import duties, stimulate local smartphone assembly, and consider targeted subsidies for broadband to democratize digital access.”