Airtel plans infrastructure expansion for digital identity

As Nigeria’s digital landscape evolves, Airtel Nigeria is committed to broadening its digital public infrastructure footprint to ensure that more citizens can access vital services.

This commitment was reaffirmed by Airtel Nigeria’s Managing Director, Mr Cruz, who emphasised the critical role of digital identity in enhancing access to essential services.

In a statement on Monday, Cruz spoke at an event organised by the National Identity Management Commission, centred on the theme “Digital Public Infrastructure: Enabling Access to Services”.

The event attracted policymakers, business leaders, and experts from the telecommunications, technology, and identity management sectors.

The Airtel Nigeria CEO explained that digital public infrastructure, particularly through digital identity systems, was fundamental to ensuring that every Nigerian has access to services, such as healthcare, education, and financial services.

“Digital public infrastructure is the backbone of any modern society. It connects people to the essential services they need to thrive, and more importantly, it does so in an inclusive and secure manner. We need to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind as we build a stronger digital economy,” he said.

Cruz underscored the importance of digital identity as a gateway to accessing public and private services.

He referenced the COVID-19 pandemic as a pivotal moment that highlighted the necessity of secure identity systems for delivering government aid, healthcare, and financial relief to citizens.

“In times of crisis, access to services is not just about convenience; it can mean the difference between receiving timely medical attention or financial support and being left out.”

The Airtel Nigeria CEO reaffirmed the company’s commitment to improving access to digital services through infrastructure expansion.

“We have made significant strides in bringing broadband access to underserved communities, ensuring that more Nigerians can participate in the digital economy,” he said.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, recently urged ministries, departments and agencies to deepen the concept of digital public infrastructure as a catalyst for transforming the Nigerian civil service.

“The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy acknowledges the significant role that technology plays in transforming the civil service into a high-performing, efficient and citizen-centred institution.

“The need to transform government services is the foundation to prosperity and the enabler to Nigeria’s progression towards the building of other digital capabilities in government,” he noted.