Airtel Nigeria's chief executive officer, Carl Cruz, has called for increased collaboration between the public and private sectors to address Nigeria's growing digital divide.
In a keynote address delivered at the 6th National Day of Identity, organised by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Cruz, highlighted the critical role of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in enabling access to essential services for millions of Nigerians.
Cruz emphasised that DPI, particularly through digital identity systems, is 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 added.
Cruz underscored the importance of digital identity as a gateway to accessing both 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."
As a major player in Nigeria's telecommunications industry, Airtel has been at the forefront of expanding digital connectivity, a key enabler of DPI. The Airtel Nigeria CEO reaffirmed the company's commitment to improving access to digital services through infrastructure expansion.
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"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 CEO also highlighted Airtel's collaboration with the government and financial institutions to promote financial inclusion. "Our mobile money platforms are helping to bring financial services to the unbanked population, creating opportunities for millions of Nigerians who previously had limited access to formal financial services," he noted.
While praising the progress made in Nigeria's digital landscape, the Airtel CEO acknowledged challenges such as the digital divide and cybersecurity threats. He called for stronger partnerships between the public and private sectors to bridge these gaps. "It is crucial that we not only expand digital access but also ensure that our systems are secure, so citizens can trust them."
Cruz therefore called for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to fully unlock the potential of DPI, which he believes will drive significant progress in healthcare, education, and financial inclusion.
