Reps Advance Bill to Ensure Free Access to Internet in Public Places


Abuja: A bill for an Act to provide a legal framework for a free internet access programme in selected public places in Nigeria and for related matters has scaled second reading in the House of Representatives. The bill, which seeks to ensure free access to internet services for underserved and disadvantaged citizens, especially in rural areas, was sponsored by Rep. Abubakar Kusada at plenary.



According to News Agency of Nigeria, Kusada recalled that the bill passed its first reading on October 3, 2024. He stated that the bill aims to establish a clear and sustainable legal foundation for providing free internet services in selected public locations across the country. As digital connectivity becomes increasingly vital to national development, the bill seeks to institutionalise and regulate free internet access programmes that will enhance internet access.



Kusada emphasized that the bill provides a structure that enables collaboration between government, institutions, and private sector partners while ensuring the security, accessibility, and responsible use of public internet infrastructure. He highlighted the necessity of this legislation, noting that internet access is an essential resource for education, employment, innovation, and civic participation. However, millions of Nigerians, particularly in rural and low-income communities, remain digitally excluded due to high data costs, limited infrastructure, and lack of public access points.



The bill proposes that providing internet services in public places can bridge this gap. Students will be able to access educational resources, conduct research, and participate in online learning. Job seekers could apply for opportunities, take online courses, and connect with professional networks. Small business owners and entrepreneurs would have a platform to promote their goods and services, engage in digital marketing, and expand their customer base.



However, not all lawmakers support the bill. Rep. Kingsley Chinda (PDP-Rivers) expressed discomfort with the provisions, arguing that internet provision has been privatised, implying that governments will need to pay for these services. He suggested that the provision of free internet should be a policy rather than a legal framework, to avoid making it compulsory and risking government non-compliance with the law.



Rep. Wole Oke (APC-Osun) pointed out that internet provision had been concessioned to service providers and comes with a cost. He noted that while public places in many countries and some parts of Nigeria enjoy free internet access, someone bears the cost on behalf of users. He questioned who would bear these costs if the bill were passed.



Rep. Dennis Agbo (LP-Enugu) proposed that the cost should be shared between internet providers and the government and suggested subsidising it to ensure internet access becomes available in rural areas.



In his ruling, the Speaker of the House, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, referred the bill to the relevant committees for further legislative consideration.