The West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Association (WATRA) has called for harmonized broadband mapping across the sub-region, stressing that coordinated data systems are critical to attracting infrastructure investment and accelerating digital transformation.
Aliyu Yusuf Aboki, WATRA’s executive secretary, who made the call at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Africa Broadband Mapping (BBMaps) National Event, in Abuja, said broadband mapping goes beyond technical exercises, serving instead as a foundation for smart regulation and inclusive growth.
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““Nigeria’s robust and transparent broadband mapping system stands as a model for the West African region. Through data-driven policymaking, we can close connectivity gaps and lay the groundwork for an inclusive digital economy,” said Aboki.
Nigeria was commended at the event for its exemplary leadership in broadband infrastructure mapping, with the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) framework spotlighted as a model for the region. Participants from across Africa praised Nigeria’s robust system, noting its transparency and technical sophistication.
WATRA therefore recommended the creation of a National Broadband Mapping Task Force chaired by the NCC to coordinate data standards, governance, and updates.
The Association emphasized the importance of regional interoperability and pledged continued engagement with ITU, NCC, and development partners.
The event underscored the necessity of collaboration among governments, regulators, infrastructure owners, and technical partners to ensure the reliability and usefulness of broadband data.
The Africa-BB-Maps initiative is aligned with the Africa–Europe Digital Regulators Partnership and the EU Global Gateway Strategy, both of which promote sustainable digital infrastructure development and cross-border cooperation. WATRA plays a critical role in translating these goals into actionable frameworks for its 16 member states.
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“This initiative is more than mapping, it is about enabling investment, expanding opportunity, and achieving our collective digital aspirations,” Aboki affirmed.
