The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the World Bank, is embarking on a significant initiative to bolster the country’s broadband infrastructure and connectivity. A joint investment of $3 billion has been earmarked to construct an additional 120,000 kilometers of fiber optic lines.
During a stakeholders’ engagement themed “Realizing a Nigerian Vision of Broadband for All,” the Minister of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, revealed this development in Abuja. He highlighted the involvement of private sector stakeholders in the project, which is slated for completion over the next three years, expressing optimism about securing the required funds within the next two to three years.
Tijani emphasized the necessity of investing in the country’s digital backbone to facilitate access, citing the importance of telecommunications infrastructure and fiber optic cables in enabling internet connectivity.
While noting that Nigeria already boasts 3,035 kilometers of fiber optic lines, Tijani stressed that an additional 120,000 kilometers are needed to ensure widespread, high-quality internet access and digital services across the nation.
Franz Drees-Gross, the World Bank Regional Director for Infrastructure for West and Central Africa, outlined the project’s initial phase, which involves laying 95,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables throughout Nigeria. He emphasized the project’s potential to enhance access to digital services and commended Nigeria’s vibrant digital ecosystem.
Drees-Gross disclosed plans to establish a digital national broadband fund and deploy middle-mile cable across Nigeria to extend broadband coverage. He highlighted ongoing discussions with the Nigerian government regarding the optimal financing mechanisms for the project, aiming to supplement Nigeria’s existing 35,000 kilometers of broadband cable with an additional 95,000 kilometers.
