In a significant move to enhance its digital infrastructure, the Nigerian government has announced a $2 billion investment aimed at expanding the country’s fibre optic network from 35,000 km to an impressive 125,000 km. This ambitious project is expected to improve access to fast and reliable internet, particularly benefiting rural communities and fostering economic growth across the nation.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, unveiled the plans during his address at the G20 Digital Economy Group Meeting held in Maceio, Brazil. He emphasised that the expansion of the fibre optic backbone is a strategic priority for the government, supported by key international partners, including the US Trade and Development Agency and the European Union.
“The investment is essential to driving Nigeria’s digital economy, which plays a critical role in fostering economic growth, social inclusion, and access to essential services,” Tijani stated. He highlighted that the project would empower more Nigerians, especially those in rural areas, to engage meaningfully in the global digital economy, thereby improving livelihoods and creating new economic opportunities.
The Minister also outlined the government’s broader digital strategy, which includes a commitment to achieving 70% digital literacy among Nigerians by 2027. This goal will be supported by initiatives such as the world’s largest technical talent acceleration program, known as 3MTT, designed to build the country’s human capital to meet the demands of an increasingly digital world.
In addition to expanding internet access, the Nigerian government has established the National Broadband Alliance, a platform aimed at aligning key stakeholders to identify sustainable means of providing meaningful connectivity for all citizens. Tijani drew inspiration from successful digital innovations in other countries, citing examples of farmers in rural China who have utilised social media to connect directly with consumers, thereby enhancing their incomes and opportunities.
Furthermore, Tijani reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing its digital public infrastructure, a vital component of its digital transformation agenda. He noted that the government’s investment in digital public infrastructure is crucial for fostering trust in public services by ensuring transparent, reliable, and accessible systems for service delivery and citizen engagement.
Read Also: Osun State Sets Sights on Digital Transformation at Industrial Summit
With the support of the European Union and the World Bank, Nigeria has developed a robust digital ID system, with over 90% of the adult population registered. This system presents an opportunity to integrate digital identity with existing government services, ensuring a cohesive approach to supporting citizens during critical life events.
To streamline digital governance, the Federal Government is also pursuing new legislation aimed at eliminating silos in technology use across government agencies. This legislation, currently undergoing public engagement, is designed to accelerate the development of a data exchange system that will enable interoperability between government agencies, further enhancing Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
As Nigeria embarks on this transformative journey, the expansion of its fibre optic network and the commitment to digital literacy and governance signal a promising future for the nation’s digital economy, positioning it as a key player in the global digital landscape.