By Ayomide Otitoju
At the 6th National Day of Identity, Airtel Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Carl Cruz, emphasized the critical role of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in providing access to essential services for millions of Nigerians. The event, organized by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), was themed “Digital Public Infrastructure: Enabling Access to Services” and brought together policymakers, business leaders, and experts from various sectors.
In his keynote address, Cruz underscored the importance of DPI, particularly digital identity systems, in ensuring that every Nigerian can access healthcare, education, and financial services. “Digital Public Infrastructure is the backbone of any modern society,” Cruz stated. “It connects people to essential services in an inclusive and secure manner. We must ensure no Nigerian is left behind as we build a stronger digital economy.”
Cruz highlighted the role of digital identity as a gateway to both public and private services, noting how the COVID-19 pandemic revealed the need for secure identity systems to deliver timely healthcare, financial support, and government aid. “In times of crisis, access to services is not just about convenience; it can mean the difference between receiving critical support or being left out,” he remarked.
As a leader in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, Airtel has been instrumental in expanding digital connectivity. Cruz reaffirmed the company’s commitment to improving access through infrastructure expansion, particularly in underserved communities. “We have made significant strides in bringing broadband access to areas that were previously disconnected, ensuring that more Nigerians can participate in the digital economy,” he said.
Cruz also noted Airtel’s efforts to promote financial inclusion, particularly through partnerships with the government and financial institutions. “Our mobile money platforms are helping bring financial services to millions of unbanked Nigerians, creating opportunities for those who previously had limited access to formal financial services,” he added.
While celebrating the progress in Nigeria’s digital landscape, Cruz acknowledged ongoing challenges, including the digital divide and cybersecurity threats. He called for stronger public-private partnerships to address these issues. “Expanding digital access is crucial, but we must also ensure that our systems are secure so that citizens can trust them,” he warned.
In closing, Cruz urged continued collaboration among stakeholders to fully unlock the potential of DPI, which he believes will drive major advancements in healthcare, education, and financial inclusion across Nigeria.
