The Federal Government, FG is set to expand telecommunications connectivity to rural communities in Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State under the National Universal Communications Access Programme (NUCAP).
The intervention followed efforts by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu who drew the attention of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to the connectivity challenges in the area.Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, commended Kalu for prioritising Bende under the programme, saying the project was part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to connect underserved communities.
“Bende Local Government Area is one of the areas being prioritised under this initiative.” Tijani Said.
He disclosed that a telecommunications tower was already nearing completion along the Umuahia–Ohafia Road, adding that between five and eight additional sites could be required to provide strong coverage across the LGA.
The minister said the ministry would assess priority communities including Uzuakoli, Ozuitem/Nkpa, Item, Igbere, Alayi/Ugwueke and Itumbauzo/Umuhu-Ezechi.Tijani said, “Our immediate goal is to determine whether we can substantially connect the entire Bende LGA before Christmas 2026.”
He said reliable connectivity would help farmers and traders access markets, enable young people to benefit from digital opportunities, and allow schools, healthcare facilities and businesses to make greater use of online services.
The minister added that the project would also support financial inclusion and access to government services, while improving network coverage required to enhance the integrity of the 2027 general elections.
Kalu expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for approving Bende as a model centre and commended Tijani for the speed with which the ministry was implementing the initiative.“Communication plays a vital role in the business and agro sectors of our economy. So, we appreciate him immensely for this initiative.”
He pledged that his office would continue working with the ministry and Abia State Government to ensure substantial coverage of Bende before the 2027 elections, while advocating the extension of the initiative to other parts of the state.
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