The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has expressed strong support for the Federal Government's Zero-Rated Access to Educational Platforms and Content Programme, being implemented in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the Federal Ministry of Education and participating telecommunications operators.
In a statement signed by Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, chairman, ALTON, the umbrella body of telecommunications operators said, the initiative represents a significant step towards expanding educational opportunities, promoting digital inclusion and accelerating Nigeria's transition to a knowledge-driven digital economy.
It also demonstrates the positive outcomes that can be achieved when government, regulators and industry work together in pursuit of a shared national objective.
According to Gbenga Adebayo, “the telecommunications industry has long recognised connectivity as a powerful enabler of social and economic development. Beyond providing access to communication services, digital networks create opportunities for learning, innovation, entrepreneurship, healthcare delivery and economic participation.
“As education increasingly moves into digital spaces, ensuring affordable access to educational resources becomes critical to national development. The Zero-Rated Educational Access Programme responds directly to this need by providing subscribers with access to approved educational platforms without data charges, supported by an initial daily allocation of 100MB for educational use”.
He noted that, the initiative is expected to support teaching, learning, examination preparation, research and other educational activities while helping to reduce barriers faced by many learners in accessing digital educational content.
“Importantly, the programme advances broader national objectives relating to human capital development, digital literacy and inclusive access to opportunities. By reducing the cost of accessing educational resources, it creates greater opportunities for students, teachers and learners across the country, irrespective of location or socioeconomic background, to participate meaningfully in the digital learning ecosystem.
“For the telecommunications industry, the initiative demonstrates how digital infrastructure can be leveraged to create lasting social value. While connectivity remains the foundation, its real impact is measured by the opportunities it creates and the lives it transforms. Investments that improve access to education ultimately contribute to a more skilled, productive and competitive workforce, strengthening Nigeria's long-term economic prospects”.
ALTON commended the Federal Government, the Nigerian Communications Commission, the Federal Ministry of Education, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and all stakeholders who have worked collaboratively to bring this initiative to fruition.
Adebayo stated that, the programme reflects a practical and sustainable model for addressing national development challenges through partnership and shared responsibility.
“We believe the ultimate success of the initiative should be measured not merely by the volume of data consumed, but by its impact on learning outcomes, educational participation, digital literacy and the opportunities it creates for Nigerians to acquire knowledge and skills,” he said.
He expressed the commitment of ALTON and its members to supporting the successful implementation of the programme and to working constructively with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that every Nigerian learner has greater access to quality educational resources in the digital age.
“Investing in education is investing in Nigeria's future, and we are proud to support an initiative that helps make that future more accessible to all,” he said.
