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By correspondent in Abuja.
The Association of Proprietors of Private Media Establishments of Nigeria (APPMEN) and Citizen Report Platform have commended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for her proposed free Wi-Fi initiative aimed at expanding digital access across Kogi Central Senatorial District.
In a joint press release issued in Abuja on April 28, 2026,in Abuja ,the two organisations described the initiative as a bold and forward-looking step towards bridging Nigeria’s digital divide, particularly at the grassroots level.
According to the statement, the senator’s announcement,made via her official Facebook page on April 27, following a stakeholder engagement in Idah Local Government Area of Kogi East,demonstrates responsiveness to community-driven ideas and a commitment to inclusive development.
The groups noted that the initiative, which involves collaboration with internet service providers and the identification of strategic public locations for installation, holds significant promise for improving access to information and digital opportunities.
APPMEN and Citizen Report stressed that the provision of free Wi-Fi would create new opportunities for young people in Kogi Central, particularly in the areas of content creation, remote work, and online entrepreneurship.
They added that improved internet access would also support local businesses by enabling e-commerce activities, while providing students with better access to educational resources and global learning platforms.
The organisations further highlighted the initiative’s potential to strengthen social connectivity, allowing families and communities to stay better connected while amplifying local voices through digital platforms.
Of particular importance, the groups underscored the role of enhanced connectivity in promoting transparent democratic processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
They explained that access to free Wi-Fi at strategic locations could empower citizens to engage in real-time election monitoring, transmit polling unit results, and support citizen journalism efforts aimed at curbing electoral malpractice.
The statement quoted Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan as describing the initiative as a necessity for job creation and youth empowerment, reflecting her commitment to leveraging digital infrastructure for socio-economic growth.
APPMEN, which represents private media proprietors across the country, expressed optimism that improved connectivity would boost the growth of digital media and expand audience reach for online publications.
Similarly, Citizen Report Platform said the initiative would enhance citizen journalism by providing wider access for community storytelling and grassroots reporting.
The organisations also praised the senator’s call for collaboration among the three senatorial districts of Kogi State, noting that such an approach promotes unity and shared development rather than unhealthy rivalry.
They urged relevant stakeholders, including telecommunications companies, to partner with the initiative to ensure its timely and effective implementation.
The groups further called on communities to actively participate by suggesting suitable locations for Wi-Fi hotspots, especially around public spaces and polling areas.
They pledged to provide sustained media coverage to track the progress of the project, document its impact, and support public awareness ahead of the 2027 elections.
APPMEN and Citizen Report expressed optimism that the free Wi-Fi project would not only accelerate digital inclusion but also strengthen democratic participation in Kogi Central and beyond.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
