A legislative proposal seeking to provide a legal foundation for the implementation of free internet access in designated public locations across Nigeria has passed second reading in the House of Representatives.
The bill, sponsored by Honourable Abubakar Kusada, was debated during Thursday’s plenary session. Kusada reminded the House that the bill initially passed its first reading on October 3, 2024.
The bill aims to create a robust and sustainable legal framework that will institutionalise free internet access programmes, particularly targeted at underserved and disadvantaged communities, especially in rural areas.
According to Kusada, the bill addresses the growing necessity of digital connectivity, which he described as a crucial driver of national development.
He explained that the proposed legislation is designed to formalise and regulate the provision of free internet services in strategic public places throughout the country, such as parks, libraries, airports, and educational institutions.
“This bill proposes a structure that enables collaborative partnerships between government agencies, private sector service providers, and public institutions.
It also incorporates mechanisms to ensure responsible usage, cybersecurity, and equitable access to public internet infrastructure,” Kusada said.
He emphasised the urgent need for such legislation, noting that in today’s global economy, internet access has evolved from being a luxury or mere communication tool to an essential resource for education, employment, innovation, and civic engagement.
“Millions of Nigerians, particularly those in rural and low-income communities, remain digitally excluded due to the high cost of data, inadequate infrastructure, and a scarcity of public internet access points.
This digital divide not only reinforces socio-economic inequality but also hampers national productivity and limits opportunities for upward social mobility,” he added.
Kusada highlighted several key benefits of expanding public internet access. Students, for example, would be able to access online learning resources, conduct research, and participate in virtual classes.
Similarly, job seekers could apply for employment opportunities, take online courses, and connect with professional networks. For entrepreneurs and small business owners, free internet would serve as a platform for digital marketing, e-commerce, and expanding customer reach.
Despite the bill’s commendable objectives, it drew mixed reactions from lawmakers during the debate.
Rep. Kingsley Chinda (PDP–Rivers) voiced his opposition, arguing that internet services are largely privatised and therefore incur operational costs. He contended that making such a service legally obligatory might not be feasible.
“Including this in the body of law means that the government becomes legally bound to provide free internet access. If it fails to do so, it will be in violation of the law.
“A more practical approach would have been to introduce this idea as a motion or recommendation rather than enshrining it in law,” Chinda argued.
Similarly, Rep. Wole Oke (APC–Osun) acknowledged the merits of the proposal but raised concerns about funding. He noted that in many parts of the world, public places such as airports and parks offer free internet, but these services are not genuinely free—costs are often embedded in service fees or subsidised by commercial entities.
“Yes, you may enter a park and enjoy free internet, but someone is footing the bill, often through service charges or corporate sponsorships. The same applies in some Nigerian institutions and businesses where customers enjoy free Wi-Fi. So, the question remains: who pays for it?” Oke asked.
Rep. Dennis Agbo (LP–Enugu) offered a compromise. He suggested that the cost of providing free internet in public spaces could be shared between the government and internet service providers.
He proposed a subsidy model that would enable access to digital services even in remote and underserved regions.
In his concluding remarks, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, commended the sponsor and contributors to the debate. He subsequently referred the bill to the relevant House committees for further legislative scrutiny and necessary amendments.
If enacted, the bill could potentially transform Nigeria’s digital landscape by promoting inclusivity and enhancing access to digital resources for millions of citizens across the country.