The Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Mr Carl Cruz, has emphasised the critical role of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in enabling access to essential services for millions of Nigerians.
Cruz stressed this in a statement signed by Mr Femi Adeniran, Director, Corporate Communications and CSR, Airtel Nigeria, in Lagos on Wednesday.
News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that DPI is a digital network that enables countries to safely and efficiently deliver economic opportunities and social services to all residents.
DPI can be compared to roads, which form a physical network that connects people and provides access to a huge range of goods and services.
Cruz said that DPI particularly played a fundamental role in digital identity systems, by ensuring that every Nigerian had 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,” Cruz said.
He stressed the importance of digital identity as a gateway to accessing both public and private services.
Cruz noted that the COVID-19 pandemic period was 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,” he said.
The Airtel boss said that to show its commitment, the company would continue improving access to digital services through infrastructure expansion.
He noted that the telco had made significant strides in bringing broadband access to underserved communities, ensuring that more Nigerians could participate in the digital economy.
Cruz said: “Airtel has been collaborating 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.”
While praising the progress made in Nigeria’s digital landscape, the Airtel boss said there were still challenges such as the digital divide and cyber security threats.
He stressed the need for stronger partnerships between the public and private sectors to bridge the gaps.
“It is crucial that we not only expand digital access but also ensure that our systems are secure, so that citizens can trust them,” he said.
He noted that there was need for sustainable collaboration among stakeholders to fully unlock the potentials of DPI.
Cruz added that he believed collaboration would drive significant progress in healthcare, education and financial inclusion. (NAN)
