President Tinubu Appoints New USPF Board To Boost Digital Access In Nigeria.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of a new board for the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), a significant move aimed at enhancing access to information and communication technologies (ICT) across Nigeria. The announcement, made on Tuesday, 12 August 2025, positions Dr Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, as the board’s Chairman, signaling a strong commitment to advancing Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
The USPF, established to promote universal access to ICT services in rural, unserved, and underserved areas, plays a pivotal role in bridging Nigeria’s digital divide. The newly constituted board includes a diverse group of professionals tasked with driving this mission forward. Idris Olorunnimbe, a seasoned expert previously involved with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, has been named Vice Chairman. Other members include Abraham Oshidami, Rimini Makama, Aliyu Edogi Aliyu (representing the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy), Joseph B Faluyi (representing the Federal Ministry of Finance), Auwal Mohammed (representing the Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning), Uzoma Dozie, Peter Bankole, Abayomi Anthony Okanlawon, Gafar Oluwasegun Quadri, and the USPF Secretary.
Dr Tijani, a respected figure in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His leadership is expected to steer the USPF towards innovative solutions that expand connectivity and foster digital inclusion. The board’s composition reflects a blend of technical expertise and policy insight, with members drawn from key government ministries and the private sector. This strategic mix is designed to ensure effective implementation of the fund’s objectives, including improving broadband penetration and supporting digital transformation in underserved communities.
The appointment comes at a critical time as Nigeria seeks to strengthen its digital economy. The USPF’s mandate includes facilitating infrastructure development and providing subsidies to encourage ICT adoption in remote areas. President Tinubu’s decision to appoint a robust board underscores the administration’s focus on leveraging technology to drive economic growth and social development. “This is a testament to our commitment to harnessing talent and expertise for national progress,” a statement from the Presidency noted, highlighting Dr Tijani’s role despite his past critiques of the administration.
Stakeholders have welcomed the appointments, expressing optimism about the board’s potential to deliver tangible results. The inclusion of representatives from key ministries ensures alignment with national economic and financial policies, while private sector members like Uzoma Dozie and Peter Bankole are expected to bring innovative perspectives to the table. The USPF’s work is seen as crucial to achieving Nigeria’s broader goals of digital inclusion, with initiatives aimed at improving internet access in schools, healthcare facilities, and rural communities.
As the new board prepares to assume its responsibilities, expectations are high for impactful policies that will enhance connectivity and empower Nigerians through technology. The USPF’s efforts are anticipated to complement ongoing initiatives, such as Lagos State’s digital house numbering system, in modernising Nigeria’s infrastructure. With Dr Tijani at the helm, the board is poised to play a transformative role in making ICT services accessible to all, paving the way for a more connected and prosperous Nigeria.
