The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has launched a Digital Village in the Ibwa 2, Kura community of Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja, as part of efforts to expand digital access to underserved rural areas.
The initiative—powered by a partnership with Huawei Nigeria and Globacom—delivers high-speed internet, e-learning tools, and telemedicine access, aiming to transform remote communities into digitally connected hubs.
Commissioning the project, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, linked the move to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive digital development.
“This project was mandated by President Tinubu to ensure every citizen has access to the opportunities digital technology offers,” Tijani stated.
Highlighting the impact of mobile connectivity, the minister noted that over 20 million Nigerians—especially in northern regions—still lack internet access due to poor infrastructure. He revealed that the President has directed investment in 7,000 connectivity kits, with Kura as the first beneficiary.
The new Digital Village includes free public Wi-Fi, solar-powered internet-connected schools with Huawei’s IdeaHub smart boards, and health centres equipped for telemedicine.
Tijani praised Huawei for going beyond connectivity by training teachers, renovating schools, and installing digital tools. Local hospitals also received medical kits and remote consultation equipment.
Huawei Nigeria’s Enterprise Managing Director, Terrens Wu, said the project’s focus is on people, not just technology.
“Farmers can check market prices, students can learn online, and pregnant women can get medical advice—all through their phones,” Wu said.
Globacom’s Northwest Division Head, Kazim Kaka, emphasized that the initiative gives Nigerians in rural areas a fair chance to thrive in the digital era, highlighting the importance of sustainable public-private partnerships.
Traditional ruler of Ibwa 2 Kura, Alhaji Abubakar Shuaibu, expressed joy over the transformation.
“Our village looks like London today,” he said. “We have network, gadgets, and even a renovated school and hospital. Though we still need more staff and teachers, this is a giant leap forward.”
The Digital Village currently serves over 12,000 residents, with the Ministry confirming that more communities will benefit in subsequent phases.
