The Bala Wunti Support Organisation (BWSO) has expanded its free internet initiative to five additional communities and public locations across Bauchi metropolis, aiming to enhance digital access and connectivity in the state.
The newly connected areas—GSM Village, Emir’s Drive, Bakaro Street, Wunti Street, and Malam Goje Street—now provide residents, traders, students, and business owners with free WiFi services.
LEADERSHIP reports that the organisation has already installed free internet access in over 30 tertiary institutions across the state.
In a statement signed by its Chief Communication Officer, Abubakar Al-Sadique, BWSO said the expansion represents an experimental phase designed to gauge public response and evaluate the social and economic impact of broader internet access before extending the programme further.
He noted that the initiative is already gaining traction in GSM Village, a key hub for mobile phone dealers, technicians, and young entrepreneurs. Beneficiaries say the free service has enabled them to communicate with customers, promote their products online, download applications, and improve business operations without the high cost of data.
At Emir’s Drive, Wunti Street, Bakaro Street, and Malam Goje Street, residents and small-scale business owners are also leveraging the connectivity for communication, online transactions, and access to information.
Al-Sadique emphasised that the programme is designed to promote digital inclusion and support economic activities by making internet services accessible to everyday users.
He added that the initiative is part of a broader vision to equip young people and local communities with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
The free internet programme has also been extended to tertiary institutions across Bauchi State, where students are utilising the service for research, virtual learning, and access to educational resources.