Nigeria prioritises $2bn fibre optic project to boost internet infrastructure, economic growth

• The initiative will expand Nigeria’s fibre optic network from 35,000km to 125,000km, significantly improving access to fast and reliable internet
  

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The Federal Government has prioritized a $2 billion fibre optic project to enhance Nigeria’s internet infrastructure and drive economic growth, according to Dr Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.

Speaking at the G20 Digital Economy Group Meeting in Maceio, Brazil, on Friday, Tijani highlighted the project’s importance, which is being supported by the US Trade and Development Agency, the European Union, and other global partners.

The initiative will expand Nigeria’s fibre optic network from 35,000km to 125,000km, significantly improving access to fast and reliable internet.

In his speech on Saturday, Tijani stressed that this investment is vital for Nigeria’s digital economy, which is key to fostering economic growth, social inclusion, and access to essential services.

He emphasized that expanding the fibre optic infrastructure will empower Nigerians, especially in rural areas, to participate in the global digital economy, creating new economic opportunities.

“Universal and equitable access to meaningful connectivity is a cornerstone for economic development, social inclusion, and access to essential services,” Tijani said, underscoring the government’s focus on driving shared prosperity and diversifying the economy.

The minister also discussed the government’s broader digital strategy, which includes promoting digital literacy. The Federal Government aims to have 70% of Nigerians digitally literate by 2027, supported by the 3MTT program, the world’s largest technical talent acceleration initiative. This program seeks to develop the country’s human capital to meet the needs of an increasingly digital world.

Additionally, Tijani announced the formation of the National Broadband Alliance, a platform aimed at aligning stakeholders and driving sustainable access to meaningful connectivity.

He cited inspiration from global digital innovations, such as rural Chinese farmers who use social media to bypass traditional markets and connect directly with consumers, improving incomes and opportunities.