The Federal Government has placed a high priority on a $2 billion fibre optic expansion project aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s internet infrastructure and driving economic growth.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, announced this at the G20 Digital Economy Group Meeting in Maceió, Brazil, on Friday.
Supported by the US Trade and Development Agency, the European Union, and other international partners, the project seeks to expand Nigeria’s fibre optic backbone from its current 35,000km to 125,000km, significantly improving access to high-speed, reliable internet.
The minister in his address stressed the importance of the project in advancing Nigeria’s digital economy. He highlighted its role in promoting economic growth, fostering social inclusion, and providing access to essential services.
Dr. Tijani noted that expanding the fibre optic network will empower more Nigerians, especially those in rural areas, to participate in the global digital economy, thereby improving livelihoods and opening up new economic opportunities.
Universal and equitable access to meaningful connectivity is a cornerstone for economic development, social inclusion, and access to essential services in today’s digital age,” the minister said.
He added that this aligns with Nigeria’s goal of driving shared prosperity and diversifying the economy.
The minister also spoke on the government’s broader digital strategy, which includes digital literacy and skills development. He revealed that the Federal Government aims to ensure that 70% of Nigerians are digitally literate by 2027. To achieve this, the government has launched initiatives like the 3MTT program, described as the world’s largest technical talent acceleration initiative.
Dr. Tijani also announced the establishment of the National Broadband Alliance, a platform that brings together key stakeholders to identify sustainable ways to expand internet access across the country.
Drawing inspiration from global examples, the minister referenced how rural farmers in China have used social media platforms to bypass traditional markets, connecting directly with consumers and improving their incomes. He believes similar innovations could benefit Nigerian communities.
The minister further discussed the government’s commitment to enhancing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), a crucial aspect of its digital transformation agenda. He emphasised that DPI investments are key to building public trust by ensuring transparent, reliable, and accessible government services.
With support from the European Union and the World Bank, Nigeria has developed a digital ID system, which now includes over 90% of the adult population. This system, Dr. Tijani said, presents opportunities for integrating digital identity with government services, enabling a unified approach to citizen support during critical life events.
To streamline digital governance, the Federal Government is also pushing for new legislation aimed at eliminating silos across government agencies in the use of technology. This legislation, currently under public review, aims to create a data exchange system that enhances interoperability between agencies and strengthens Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.