Info Boss urges MTN to extend coverage to rural communities

Commissioner for In formation and   Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah, has called on MTN Telecommunication Company to expand its network with a view to making its services available in rural communities in Akwa Ibom State. 

The commissioner, who was represented by his Permanent Secretary, Mr. Oliver Udoukpo, made call while giving a talk at a retreat organized recently by MTN for its staffers in Uyo. 

Mr. Umanah underscored the importance of the expansion of rural telecommunications network coverage as a vital means of connecting rural people with other sectors in the economy,  ”we cannot neglect the development of our rural communities and expect to have meaningful development because, a large percentage of our population resides in those areas,” adding that “development can only be effective if rural dwellers have access to timely and relevant information that can enhance their lives.”  

He stated that people in the rural communities need information on how to prevent diseases that affect people as well as awareness on available treatments and cost of treatment for ailments.  

According to him, with expansion of telecommunications network, farmers and other rural dwellers will be better informed about improved seedlings, soil treatments, and storage techniques, in addition to having information on empowerment, housing effective political participation. 

The Information boss, said although MTN services have improved in the State, they need to upgrade their equipment for high signal transmission, especially in the rural communities. 

In a brief remark, the Senior Manager, Government Relations, MTN, Mr. Austin Iyashere, expressed his appreciation to the State Government for providing an enabling environment for business to thrive. He assured the Government of future business relationship and partnership for the development of the rural communities. 

Mr. Iyashere, however pledged to be more involved in rendering services to subscribers in the State, and solicited government support to integrate telecommunication design into its urbanization and infrastructural planning. 

Mr Iyashere noted that MTN Nigeria Telecommunication Limited is the most indigenized company, contributing over 4% of the GDP, and assured that Akwa Ibom cannot be excluded from their improved packages and welfare scheme.