Paradigm Initiative wants independence of USP Fund
By Funmilola Gboteku
Mr Gbenga Sesan, the Executive Director, Paradigm Initiative (PIN), on Wednesday called for the independence of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) to ensure effective implementation of rural telephony projects.
Sesan made the call at a news conference organised by Paradigm Initiative (PIN) to discuss digital rights and inclusion issues on the continent, in Lagos.
Highlighting the challenges facing the USPF, he noted that the Fund had not submitted its report since 2021, and that there was a need for transparency and accountability in its management.
He emphasised the importance of the USPF to rural telephony, citing the example of Benin Republic where the Fund had run cables from the south to the north, providing last mile access to citizens.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) was established by the Federal Government to facilitate the achievement of national policy goals for universal access and universal service to Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in rural, un-served and under-served areas in the country.
The USP Fund is committed to creating an enabling environment and ensuring that Nigerians irrespective of demography, social and economic status have access to quality and affordable ICT services.
He emphasised the need for the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) to be independent and self-sufficient, allowing it to carry out more projects effectively.
Sesan said that politics and backsliding are major obstacles hindering the Fund’s progress, preventing it from reaching its full potential.
Speaking on internet penetration, Sesan said that the growth was slow due to inadequate infrastructure, stressing the need for effective implementation of policies to address the challenge.
On digital platforms, he noted that demonisation of applications was a major bottleneck for digital inclusion.
“Digital platforms have improved the lives of citizens, but there is a need to address the challenges facing the digital space.
“The government needs to take steps to address challenges facing the digital rights landscape in Africa, including internet disruptions, undermining of digital rights, data breaches, surveillance, and censorship,” he said.
Sesan stressed the importance of using appropriate technologies to address specific challenges.
He also highlighted the need for digital literacy and online safety training for citizens, particularly those in rural areas.
Sesan noted that Paradigm Initiative had been working to promote digital inclusion and protect citizens’ online rights.
He stressed the importance of the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) in enforcing data protection laws.
Sesan, however, noted that the lack of independence and zero budget allocation for the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) in 2024 was a worrisome development.
He noted that the zero budget allocation for the commission in 2024 could have hindered its ability to carry out its mandate.
The PIN boss expressed concern about the lack of independence of the NDPC, citing the fact that it was controlled by the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.
Sesan emphasised that the NDPC’s independence and adequate funding are crucial for it to effectively regulate data protection in Nigeria and protect citizens’ personal data.
Sesan emphasised the importance of collaboration and coordination among stakeholders to promote digital inclusion and protect citizens’ online rights.
Speaking on significant milestones, he noted that PIN spearheaded the initial draft of a groundbreaking digital rights law in Africa.
He said that the organisation had also supported parliamentarians in Malawi, South Sudan, and Tanzania in their efforts to enact robust data protection laws.
“Through strategic litigation, Paradigm Initiative has secured court rulings addressing concerns with the Nigerian Cybercrimes Act of 2015.
“We have also worked to promote digital literacy and online safety through various programmes and initiatives.
“Paradigm Initiative also trains young people in digital skills through its LIFE programme, which has been extended to 11 African countries.
“We have also developed toolkits such as RIPOTI and AYETA to empower citizens to report and document rights violations and stay safe online,” the PI boss said.
Paradigm Initiative (PIN) is a pan-African nonprofit that connects African youth with digital opportunities and ensures digital rights for all.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Christiana Fadare
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