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About the USPF | Stakeholder
Consultations | Contact Information Pursuant to Chapter VII, Part IV, of the Communications Act of 2003, the Federal Government of Nigeria established a Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) to facilitate rapid achievement of national policy goals for universal access to telecommunications, information and communication technologies (ICTs). The Fund will seek to contribute to national economic and social development by enhancing the universal accessibility and availability of telecommunications and ICT infrastructure and services to all, particularly to rural residents, and socially and physically disadvantaged populations. The Fund will also promote technological innovation and competition in ICT service delivery in rural areas; support the establishment of efficient, self-sustaining, market-oriented businesses, including cooperatives, which will continue to expand access to ICTs on their own initiative, requiring the minimum amounts of short- and long-term Fund support possible as well as ensure effective utilization of funds to leverage investments in rural communications. In view of the above, the Universal Service Provision Fund, in conjunction with the Nigerian Communications Commission invited all policy makers, telecommunication service providers, NGOs, Civil Society, Local Communities and the general public to a Consultative Forum held October 31, 2006. The following where discussed: • Strategies and mechanisms
for extending access to rural and underserved areas of Nigeria.
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