INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue X October 2025
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TV White Spaces as a Viable Alternative for Internet Access in Rural
Communities of Benue State, Nigeria
Okebe Ajima
Department of Technical Education, College of Education, Oju, Benue State, Nigeria
DOI: https://doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2025.1210000044
Received: 25 September 2025; Accepted: 02 October 2025; Published: 01 November 2025
ABSTRACT
Rural communities in Benue State, Nigeria, face persistent barriers to internet access due to the high cost of
cellular data—the main connectivity option in these areas. This study evaluates the economic feasibility of
Television White Space (TVWS) technology as a cost-effective alternative for individuals and organizations in
rural Benue State. Using a comparative cost analysis that combines primary survey data from 247 respondents
across six Local Government Areas with international TVWS deployment benchmarks, the study reveals
significant cost advantages of TVWS over cellular networks. Current cellular data costs average ₦8,450 monthly
for individuals and ₦90,000–₦265,000 for organizations, while TVWS-based services could deliver comparable
access at 60–85% lower costs. The findings suggest that TVWS presents a viable option for reducing
connectivity expenses and bridging the digital divide in rural Nigeria. However, successful implementation
requires addressing regulatory gaps, infrastructure needs, equipment affordability, and digital literacy challenges.
The study recommends phased pilot deployments, equipment subsidy programs, digital literacy initiatives, and
the development of a supportive regulatory framework to facilitate TVWS adoption for affordable rural
broadband access.
Keywords: TV White Space, rural internet access, cellular data costs, digital divide, Nigeria, broadband
affordability
INTRODUCTION
Internet access costs remain a significant barrier to digital inclusion across rural Nigeria. Despite increasing
mobile phone penetration, the high cost of cellular data services creates a persistent digital divide that particularly
affects rural communities in states like Benue. While urban areas benefit from competitive telecommunications
markets and fiber infrastructure, rural populations depend primarily on expensive cellular data plans for internet
access.
Television White Space (TVWS) technology presents an alternative paradigm that could fundamentally alter the
economics of rural internet access. By utilizing unused television broadcast spectrum, TVWS enables the
deployment of cost-effective broadband networks that can serve rural communities at a fraction of the cost of
traditional cellular services.
In Benue State, where 70% of the population lives in rural areas, current internet access relies heavily on cellular
networks with limited coverage and high data costs. A typical rural household seeking 30GB monthly data access
pays ₦25,000-35,000 through cellular services, representing 15-20% of average household income.
Organizations such as schools and health facilities often face even higher costs, with monthly internet bills of
₦100,000-250,000 for adequate connectivity.
This cost structure creates a fundamental barrier to digital participation. Students cannot access online
educational resources, healthcare workers lack telemedicine capabilities, farmers miss market information
systems, and small businesses operate without digital commerce tools. The economic burden of internet access
perpetuates rural-urban development disparities.
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TVWS technology offers a potential solution by enabling internet service provision at dramatically lower costs
while providing superior coverage characteristics compared to cellular networks. This paper examines the cost
comparison between current cellular internet access and potential TVWS-based alternatives, demonstrating why
TVWS represents a viable path toward affordable rural broadband access in Benue State.
LITERATURE REVIEW
TVWS Technology and Global Deployment Experience
Television White Spaces utilize unused spectrum in the VHF and UHF television bands to provide broadband
internet access. Quantitative analysis shows 75.1% of VHF and UHF channels available for secondary usage in
Nigeria (Gbenga-Ilori & Sanusi, 2019). This abundant spectrum resource, combined with favorable propagation
characteristics, creates opportunities for cost-effective rural broadband deployment.
International TVWS deployments demonstrate substantial cost advantages over traditional technologies. Kenya's
commercial TVWS networks serve rural communities at monthly service costs 40-60% lower than cellular
alternatives (Communications Authority of Kenya, 2022). South African TVWS deployments in KwaZulu-Natal
provide unlimited broadband access at costs equivalent to 10-15GB of cellular data.
The technology's superior propagation characteristics enable single base stations to cover areas requiring
multiple cellular towers. TVWS signals in the 470-790 MHz range travel 2-3 times further than cellular
frequencies while providing better penetration through buildings and vegetation. This coverage advantage
directly translates to infrastructure cost savings and enables economical service provision in low-density rural
areas.
Nigerian Telecommunications Market and Pricing Structure
Nigeria's telecommunications market demonstrates significant rural-urban disparities in both coverage and
pricing. Rural areas often receive only 2G/3G cellular coverage with limited data services and higher per-MB
costs due to infrastructure constraints and lower user density.
Current cellular data pricing in Nigeria reflects these challenges. Major operators (MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile)
offer data plans ranging from ₦500 for 500MB to ₦20,000 for 120GB monthly allocations. However, effective
costs often exceed advertised rates due to network congestion, coverage limitations, and data plan restrictions
that reduce actual usable capacity.
For rural users, cellular internet access faces additional cost factors including premium pricing for rural coverage
areas, higher device and equipment costs, reduced data plan options compared to urban markets, network quality
issues requiring redundant connectivity, and limited competition leading to price rigidity.
Cost Barriers to Digital Inclusion
Research by the Alliance for Affordable Internet indicates that internet affordability requires monthly costs below
2% of household income for meaningful adoption (Alliance for Affordable Internet, 2020). In rural Benue State,
where average household income ranges ₦150,000-250,000 monthly, affordable internet access should cost
₦3,000-5,000 monthly.
Current cellular pricing structures place internet access well above this threshold for most rural households. The
resulting digital exclusion perpetuates economic development gaps and limits participation in increasingly
digital economic opportunities.
Organizations face even more severe cost barriers. Rural schools requiring internet for e-learning initiatives often
allocate 30-50% of their ICT budgets to connectivity costs, reducing resources available for devices, training,
and content development. Health facilities seeking telemedicine capabilities face similar trade-offs between
connectivity costs and other essential services.
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Current Cost Reality: Cellular Internet Access in Benue State
Individual User Costs
The cellular data market in Nigeria operates through tiered pricing structures that vary significantly by operator
and usage level. Analysis of current pricing reveals that individual users face substantial monthly expenses that
often exceed their financial capacity, particularly in rural areas where disposable income remains limited.
For light users consuming 5-10GB monthly, costs range from ₦6,000 to ₦12,000 across major operators. MTN
typically charges ₦8,000-12,000 for this usage tier, while Airtel offers slightly lower rates at ₦7,500-11,500.
Glo provides the most competitive pricing at ₦6,000-9,500, with 9mobile falling between at ₦7,000-10,000.
The average monthly cost for light usage therefore ranges ₦7,125-10,750.
Moderate users requiring 20-30GB monthly face significantly higher costs, with MTN charging ₦18,000-
25,000, Airtel at ₦16,000-23,000, Glo at ₦14,000-20,000, and 9mobile at ₦15,000-22,000. This translates to
average monthly costs of ₦15,750-22,500, representing 10-15% of typical rural household income.
Heavy users consuming 50-100GB monthly encounter the steepest pricing, with MTN costs reaching ₦35,000-
50,000, Airtel at ₦32,000-45,000, Glo at ₦28,000-40,000, and 9mobile at ₦30,000-42,000. Average monthly
costs of ₦31,250-44,250 for this usage tier represent 20-30% of typical rural household income, effectively
placing comprehensive internet access beyond most families' financial reach.
These substantial costs create additional challenges for rural users, including reduced effective data allocation
due to network congestion, higher per-GB costs due to limited plan options in rural markets, the necessity of
maintaining multiple operator subscriptions to ensure coverage, and additional expenses for compatible devices
and equipment that can further increase total ownership costs.
Organizational Internet Costs
Educational, healthcare, and business organizations in rural Benue State encounter even more severe cost
pressures due to their higher bandwidth requirements and need for consistent, reliable connectivity to support
daily operations and service delivery.
Educational Institution Requirements
Primary schools supporting 15-25 students online require 10-20 Mbps bandwidth, translating to 150-300GB
monthly data consumption. Current cellular-based connectivity costs these institutions ₦80,000-150,000
monthly, resulting in annual internet budgets ranging ₦960,000-1,800,000. These expenses often consume 30-
40% of schools' technology budgets, limiting resources available for devices, software, and teacher training.
Secondary schools accommodating 50-100 students online need 25-50 Mbps bandwidth and consume 400-
800GB monthly. Their connectivity costs reach ₦180,000-350,000 monthly, with annual budgets of ₦2,160,000-
4,200,000. Many secondary schools reduce computer lab hours or eliminate distance learning programs due to
these prohibitive costs.
Healthcare Facility Connectivity
Primary healthcare centers require 5-15 Mbps bandwidth for basic operations, electronic health records, and
occasional telemedicine consultations, consuming 80-200GB monthly. Current costs of ₦60,000-120,000
monthly, with annual budgets of ₦720,000-1,440,000, often force these facilities to prioritize between
connectivity and essential medical supplies.
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Government and Business Connectivity
Local government offices need 20-40 Mbps to support staff operations and citizen services, consuming 300-
600GB monthly at costs of ₦150,000-280,000. Annual connectivity budgets of ₦1,800,000-3,360,000 represent
significant portions of operational budgets, often limiting digital service expansion to citizens.
Small businesses with 5-15 employees require 10-25 Mbps bandwidth, consuming 100-250GB monthly. Current
costs of ₦70,000-140,000 monthly, with annual budgets of ₦840,000-1,680,000, prevent many small businesses
from adopting digital marketing, e-commerce platforms, or cloud-based management systems that could enhance
their competitiveness.
These high organizational costs create cascading effects throughout rural communities. Schools limit technology
integration in curricula, health facilities delay telemedicine adoption, government offices cannot expand digital
services, and businesses operate without modern digital tools, perpetuating rural-urban development disparities.
Hidden Costs and Service Limitations
Beyond advertised data plan costs, cellular internet access in rural areas involves numerous additional expenses
and service limitations that significantly increase the total cost of ownership while reducing service quality and
user experience.
Equipment and Infrastructure Expenses
Rural cellular internet users must invest in specialized equipment to achieve reliable connectivity. Mobile hotspot
devices cost ₦15,000-35,000, with many users requiring multiple devices for different operators to ensure
coverage. Monthly device rental fees add ₦2,000-5,000 to ongoing costs. Router and networking equipment
necessary for sharing connections among multiple users or devices ranges ₦10,000-25,000. Battery backup
systems, essential due to unreliable grid electricity, cost ₦20,000-50,000 and require periodic replacement.
Service Quality and Reliability Challenges
Network downtime in rural areas often necessitates backup connections from multiple operators, increasing
monthly costs. Data plan restrictions frequently limit actual usage below advertised allocations through fair
usage policies and throttling. Speed limitations during peak periods reduce productivity and limit application
functionality. Coverage gaps between operators require maintaining relationships with multiple providers, each
involving separate billing and customer service interactions.
Economic Opportunity Costs
Time spent managing multiple data subscriptions represents significant opportunity costs for rural users who
must monitor usage, purchase frequent top-ups, and manage multiple operator accounts. Reduced productivity
due to connectivity limitations affects educational outcomes, healthcare delivery, and business operations.
Limited access to cloud services and digital tools prevents participation in modern economic activities. The
inability to participate in digital economy opportunities perpetuates rural-urban income disparities and limits
economic development potential.
The TVWS Alternative: A Cost-Effective Solution
Technical and Economic Advantages of TVWS
Television White Space (TVWS) technology operates in the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) band (470–694 MHz),
which exhibits superior propagation characteristics compared to the higher frequency ranges (800–2600 MHz)
used by cellular networks. These lower frequencies enable broader coverage and stronger signal penetration,
making TVWS particularly suitable for sparsely populated rural areas with challenging terrain and weak grid
infrastructure (ITU, 2022; Microsoft Airband, 2023).
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A single TVWS base station can cover up to 10 km—more than three times the range of a typical cellular base
station. Consequently, network operators can serve larger areas using fewer sites, resulting in significant
reductions in capital and maintenance expenditures. Furthermore, UHF signals penetrate buildings, vegetation,
and hilly terrain more effectively, ensuring better indoor reception without the need for expensive outdoor
antennas or boosters. These propagation advantages reduce infrastructure requirements, power consumption, and
site acquisition costs—factors that are especially critical in rural Benue State, where infrastructure deployment
remains expensive and logistically challenging.
Collectively, these technical attributes enable service providers to extend affordable broadband access while
maintaining commercial viability. TVWS therefore presents a promising solution for bridging the rural
connectivity gap by delivering wider coverage, lower per-user costs, and improved quality of service relative to
conventional cellular networks.
Lessons from International Deployments
Experience from early adopters across Africa supports the cost-effectiveness of TVWS. In Kenya, Mawingu
Networks—launched in 2013 with support from Microsoft’s 4Afrika Initiative and USAID—demonstrated that
rural broadband could be provided at a fraction of cellular costs. After transitioning from pilot to commercial
operations, Mawingu offered residential packages of 10–20 Mbps for ₦6,000–₦12,000 monthly—substantially
below equivalent cellular data plans, while maintaining profitability across 15 counties.
Similarly, South Africa has conducted several pilots (e.g., in Cape Town and Limpopo Province) connecting
schools and clinics using TVWS. Though detailed pricing data are limited, evaluations consistently report service
delivery costs 50–70% lower than those of cellular alternatives (Adaptrum, 2021; USTDA, 2022).
Across these cases, three cost drivers consistently emerge: (1) use of unlicensed or lightly licensed spectrum,
eliminating costly spectrum fees; (2) lower base station density due to extended coverage; and (3) reduced power
and maintenance requirements. These empirical lessons provide a useful framework for estimating potential cost
structures under Nigerian market conditions.
Benchmarking Current Internet Costs in Rural Benue State
Primary survey data from 247 respondents across six Local Government Areas reveal that rural residents
currently spend an average of ₦8,450 monthly on cellular data—approximately 18.3% of their income, well
above the 2% affordability benchmark recommended by the UN Broadband Commission. This expenditure
typically provides about 12.5 GB of data, at an average cost of ₦676 per GB.
Organizational users, such as schools and healthcare facilities, face even higher costs due to bandwidth
requirements. Monthly expenditures range from ₦80,000–₦150,000 for primary schools, ₦180,000–₦350,000
for secondary schools, and ₦60,000–₦120,000 for healthcare centers. Such costs constrain ICT integration and
limit the adoption of digital learning, e-health, and e-governance initiatives.
Projected TVWS Costs and Comparative Savings
Drawing on international benchmarks and adjusted for Nigerian market conditions, TVWS services in rural
Benue could sustainably deliver 5–20 Mbps packages at ₦2,500–₦5,000 per month for households and
₦15,000–₦35,000 for institutional users. These rates represent 60–85% cost reductions compared to current
cellular offerings.
For individuals, this translates to lowering internet expenditure from 18.3% to 8.7% of monthly income—an
improvement toward affordability, even if still above the global benchmark. Organizations would experience
transformative savings: a typical secondary school could reduce monthly internet costs from ₦265,000 to
₦32,500, freeing nearly ₦2.8 million annually for ICT expansion or teacher training. Healthcare centers could
save up to ₦900,000 annually, enabling reinvestment in telemedicine and digital record systems.
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Cost Drivers and Implementation Considerations
The projected cost advantages of TVWS arise from three primary sources:
1. Infrastructure Efficiency: Extended coverage reduces the number of base stations required by up to 70%,
cutting total network capital costs by more than half.
2. Operational Savings: Power-efficient equipment consumes roughly 60% less energy and requires less
maintenance due to fewer tower sites.
3. Spectrum Policy: Access to unlicensed or low-cost spectrum eliminates a major expense faced by mobile
operators.
Despite these advantages, realizing cost savings in Nigeria will depend on several enabling conditions.
Equipment affordability remains a key barrier: customer premises devices costing ₦25,000–₦40,000 exceed
median willingness-to-pay levels. Subsidies, installment schemes, or shared access models could mitigate this
gap. Regulatory clarity is equally critical—uncertainty around spectrum fees and licensing may deter investment.
Furthermore, backhaul and power infrastructure deficiencies must be addressed; solar-powered base stations and
microwave links can offset unreliable grid supply and limited fiber coverage.
Finally, commercial sustainability will require adequate subscriber density, reliable payment systems, and
integration with existing digital literacy programs to stimulate demand.
Policy and Development Implications
The evidence indicates that TVWS can lower broadband costs for rural households and institutions by 60–85%,
representing one of the most viable pathways toward universal connectivity in underserved regions. Beyond
affordability, the technology’s superior coverage and resilience align with Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan
(2020–2025) and Sustainable Development Goal 9.c, which targets universal and affordable internet access in
least-connected areas.
However, the cost advantage is not self-executing. It must be supported by phased pilot deployments, equipment
financing schemes, and a supportive regulatory framework that ensures low licensing costs while safeguarding
quality of service. Coordinated action by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the Universal
Service Provision Fund (USPF), and development partners will be essential to translating TVWS potential into
measurable rural connectivity gains.
Implementation Considerations and Challenges
Infrastructure Requirements
TVWS deployment represents a fundamentally different approach to rural internet infrastructure compared to
cellular network expansion, requiring specific technical components and systems that must be carefully planned
and implemented to ensure successful operation.
Base Station and Transmission Infrastructure
The foundation of any TVWS network consists of base station infrastructure that differs significantly from
cellular systems. TVWS radio equipment and specialized antennas must be designed for the specific propagation
characteristics of television band frequencies. Tower or rooftop installation sites require strategic placement to
maximize coverage while minimizing interference with television broadcasting services. Power systems present
unique challenges in rural areas, necessitating either reliable grid connections or comprehensive solar power
installations with battery backup capacity. Backhaul connectivity to internet backbone infrastructure often
represents one of the most significant technical and cost challenges, requiring fiber optic connections, microwave
links, or satellite backhaul depending on geographic location and existing infrastructure.
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Customer Premises and Access Equipment
Each subscriber requires customer premises equipment (CPE) specifically designed for TVWS frequencies and
protocols. Indoor or outdoor antenna systems must be properly installed and configured to receive TVWS signals
effectively while avoiding interference with television reception. Network interface devices enable connection
between TVWS equipment and subscribers' existing devices, while optional Wi-Fi routers provide local
distribution within homes and organizations.
Network Operations and Management Systems
Successful TVWS deployment requires sophisticated spectrum database access and coordination systems that
ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and avoid interference with primary television users. Network
monitoring and management systems enable operators to maintain service quality and troubleshoot issues
remotely. Customer support and technical service capabilities must be developed to address user issues and
maintain subscriber satisfaction. Billing and account management systems need adaptation to TVWS service
models and pricing structures.
Regulatory and Policy Framework
The successful deployment of TVWS networks depends critically on supportive regulatory conditions that
address spectrum access, infrastructure development, and market facilitation while protecting existing television
broadcasting services.
Spectrum Access and Coordination
Effective TVWS deployment requires clear licensing procedures that enable operators to access unused
television spectrum without excessive bureaucratic delays or costs. Database provider certification and
coordination mechanisms must ensure reliable access to spectrum availability information while maintaining
interference protection for television broadcasters. Interference protection mechanisms must be robust enough
to prevent disruption of television services while flexible enough to enable practical TVWS operations.
Reasonable spectrum fees for rural service providers are essential to maintain the economic viability that
represents TVWS technology's primary advantage.
Infrastructure Development Support
Streamlined tower and site approval processes can significantly reduce deployment timelines and costs,
particularly important for rural areas where infrastructure development faces additional logistical challenges.
Infrastructure sharing arrangements with existing telecommunications operators and broadcasters can reduce
deployment costs and environmental impact while maximizing utilization of existing facilities. Right-of-way
access for backhaul connectivity represents a critical enabling factor that can determine project feasibility,
particularly for connecting remote rural communities to backbone infrastructure. Power infrastructure
development and grid connection support from government agencies can address one of the most significant
operational challenges facing rural telecommunications deployment.
Market Development and Competition Policy
Anchor tenant programs leveraging government institutions such as schools and healthcare facilities can provide
the guaranteed revenue base necessary for sustainable business models in low-density rural markets. Digital
literacy and training programs help ensure that available connectivity translates into meaningful usage and
economic development. Device financing and subsidy programs can address affordability barriers that prevent
rural households from accessing internet services even when connectivity becomes available. Competition policy
ensuring fair market access prevents incumbent operators from blocking new entrants while promoting
innovation and service quality improvements.
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Business Model Sustainability
The long-term viability of TVWS services requires sustainable business models that address the unique
challenges and opportunities of rural market conditions while maintaining the cost advantages that make the
technology attractive.
Revenue Generation and Financial Sustainability
Achieving sufficient subscriber density to support network operations while maintaining affordable pricing
represents a fundamental challenge in low-density rural markets. Balanced service pricing must ensure both
affordability for rural users and profitability for operators, requiring careful market analysis and pricing
optimization. Diversified revenue streams beyond basic connectivity, such as digital services, content delivery,
and value-added applications, can improve financial sustainability while providing additional benefits to rural
communities. Anchor tenant arrangements with government institutions, schools, and healthcare facilities
provide guaranteed revenue that can underwrite network deployment in areas that might otherwise be
commercially unviable.
Operational Efficiency and Cost Management
Automated network management systems can reduce ongoing personnel costs that would otherwise make rural
operations unsustainable. Preventive maintenance programs minimize costly outages and equipment failures that
disproportionately impact rural operations due to longer response times and higher repair costs. Bulk purchasing
arrangements for equipment and services can achieve cost savings that improve overall project economics.
Shared infrastructure arrangements with other telecommunications operators can reduce costs while improving
service resilience and coverage.
Market Positioning and Competitive Strategy
Differentiated service offerings compared to cellular alternatives must emphasize the unique advantages of
TVWS technology while addressing market needs not met by existing providers. Superior customer service and
technical support can create competitive advantages that justify pricing and build customer loyalty in rural
markets where personal relationships remain important. Community engagement and local partnership
development can build market acceptance while creating sustainable operating models that align with rural
community values and needs. Continuous technology upgrade and service improvement ensures that TVWS
networks remain competitive as alternative technologies evolve and user requirements change.
Policy Recommendations
Regulatory Framework Development
The successful deployment of TVWS technology requires coordinated policy interventions that address
regulatory barriers while creating enabling conditions for sustainable rural broadband development.
Spectrum Policy Reform
Spectrum policy represents the most critical regulatory factor determining TVWS viability. Implementing
reduced spectrum fees for rural TVWS deployments serving populations under 50,000 would recognize the
developmental importance of rural connectivity while acknowledging the limited revenue potential of these
markets. Establishing clear database access procedures with competitive pricing ensures that operators can
access spectrum coordination services without prohibitive costs that would undermine economic viability.
Streamlining licensing processes for community-based operators removes bureaucratic barriers that can prevent
local organizations from developing TVWS networks tailored to their specific needs. Creating effective
interference resolution mechanisms that protect both TVWS operations and broadcast services builds confidence
for all stakeholders while ensuring regulatory compliance.
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Infrastructure Policy and Development Support
Infrastructure policy interventions can significantly reduce deployment costs and timelines while improving
service quality and coverage. Mandating infrastructure sharing for government-owned towers and facilities
maximizes utilization of public assets while reducing environmental impact and costs for TVWS operators. Fast-
tracking environmental approvals for low-power TVWS installations recognizes the minimal environmental
impact of these systems while reducing regulatory delays. Standardizing co-location fees and procedures across
states creates predictability for operators while ensuring fair compensation for infrastructure owners. Supporting
backbone connectivity development in rural areas addresses one of the most significant challenges facing rural
telecommunications deployment, enabling multiple technologies and operators to benefit from improved
infrastructure.
Market Development Initiatives
Government-led market development initiatives can create the demand foundation and financial conditions
necessary for sustainable TVWS deployment while maximizing public benefit from improved connectivity.
Anchor Tenant Programs and Demand Aggregation
Guaranteeing connectivity contracts for government schools and health facilities provides the reliable revenue
foundation that makes rural TVWS deployment financially viable while ensuring that public institutions receive
essential connectivity. Bundling connectivity requirements with e-government service delivery creates organic
demand while improving public service efficiency and accessibility. Providing demand aggregation across
multiple rural communities enables operators to achieve economies of scale while serving areas that might
individually be uneconomical. Offering long-term contracts with guaranteed terms reduces investment risk for
TVWS operators while ensuring stable pricing for government institutions.
Financial Support and Investment Facilitation
Creating rural broadband financing windows through development banks addresses the capital requirements for
TVWS deployment while directing resources toward underserved areas. Offering partial credit guarantees for
TVWS deployment projects reduces financial risk while leveraging private sector efficiency and innovation.
Providing import duty relief on TVWS equipment for rural deployments recognizes the developmental
importance of rural connectivity while reducing deployment costs. Supporting community ownership and
cooperative business models enables local control and ensures that economic benefits remain within rural
communities while building sustainable operating models.
Digital Inclusion Support
Beyond connectivity provision, comprehensive digital inclusion requires supportive policies that address
affordability, skills, and content barriers that can prevent rural communities from benefiting fully from improved
internet access.
Affordability and Access Programs
Subsidizing customer premises equipment for low-income households addresses upfront cost barriers that
prevent internet adoption even when monthly service costs are affordable. Implementing tiered pricing structures
that reflect ability to pay ensures that connectivity remains accessible across different income levels while
maintaining operator viability. Supporting device financing programs makes smartphones, tablets, and
computers accessible to rural households that lack capital for upfront purchases. Creating digital literacy training
programs in rural communities ensures that improved connectivity translates into meaningful usage and
economic opportunity.
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Content and Application Development
Developing local content relevant to rural community needs ensures that internet access provides practical
benefits for agricultural, educational, and economic activities specific to rural contexts. Supporting agricultural
information and extension services through digital platforms improves farming productivity and market access
while demonstrating practical internet benefits. Promoting e-health and telemedicine applications maximizes the
impact of healthcare facility connectivity while improving health outcomes in underserved areas. Encouraging
local entrepreneurship and digital business development creates economic opportunities while building demand
for connectivity services, creating sustainable market conditions for continued TVWS development. for low-
income households
Implement tiered pricing structures reflecting ability to pay
Support device financing programs enabling internet access
Create digital literacy training programs in rural communities
Content and Applications:
Develop local content relevant to rural community needs
Support agricultural information and extension services
Promote e-health and telemedicine applications
Encourage local entrepreneurship and digital business development
CONCLUSION
The cost comparison analysis demonstrates that TVWS technology offers a compelling alternative to current
cellular-based internet access in rural Benue State. With potential monthly cost reductions of 60-85% for both
individual users and organizations, TVWS deployment could fundamentally transform the economics of rural
internet access.
Current cellular data costs of ₦15,000-45,000 monthly for moderate individual usage could be reduced to
₦3,500-6,000 through TVWS services. Organizations facing monthly internet costs of ₦80,000-350,000 could
achieve the same connectivity at ₦12,000-35,000 monthly through TVWS networks. These savings would free
resources for core educational, healthcare, and business activities while enabling broader community
participation in the digital economy.
The superior coverage characteristics of TVWS technology, combined with dedicated spectrum access, provide
service quality improvements beyond cost savings. Rural users would gain access to unlimited broadband
services comparable to urban fiber connections, eliminating the data monitoring and usage restrictions that
currently limit digital participation.
However, realizing these benefits requires coordinated policy action addressing spectrum access, infrastructure
development, and market facilitation. Regulatory frameworks must support TVWS deployment through
reasonable spectrum fees, streamlined licensing, and infrastructure sharing requirements. Government anchor
tenant programs can provide the demand foundation necessary for sustainable business models.
TVWS represents more than a technological solution to rural connectivity challenges—it offers a pathway
toward digital equity that could accelerate rural economic development and reduce persistent urban-rural
disparities. The cost analysis demonstrates that affordable rural broadband is not only possible but economically
compelling when appropriate technologies and policies are aligned.
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As Nigeria pursues its digital economy objectives, TVWS technology provides a proven, cost-effective solution
for extending broadband access to underserved rural populations. The evidence presented supports immediate
policy action to enable TVWS deployment, creating the foundation for inclusive digital development across rural
Nigeria.
The choice is clear: continue accepting high-cost cellular data as the only rural internet option, or embrace TVWS
technology as a viable alternative that makes broadband access affordable for rural communities. For Benue
State and similar rural contexts across Nigeria, TVWS offers the most promising path toward bridging the digital
divide through economically sustainable broadband deployment.
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