The Federal Government has announced that it is mobilising 49 per cent of Nigeria’s $2 billion fibre optic network investment to accelerate broadband expansion and strengthen the country’s transition to a digital economy.
This strategic initiative, led by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijjani, aims to close the existing connectivity gap and provide the infrastructure backbone necessary for inclusive digital transformation across the nation.
Tijjani made this known during a plenary session organised by IHS Towers, one of the world’s largest independent telecommunications infrastructure providers, held as part of the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja.
He explained that the FG’s 49% contribution is designed to serve as a catalyst for private-sector collaboration, allowing the remaining 51% to be financed through private investment.
This, he said, will ensure sustainable growth and the rapid rollout of broadband infrastructure across all states, local governments, and communities in Nigeria.
FG mobilising 49% of $2bn fibre optic investment to expand digital reach
According to Tijjani, the project’s scope covers every region of the country, ensuring that no area is left behind.
“The implication is that every state, every local government, and every ward of Nigeria will be covered in the design,” the minister said.
“So wherever you live, there will be a point of presence — a fibre-optic network close to your home. Once we’re able to deploy this, your connectivity will no longer depend solely on mobile data but on a stable, fibre-based infrastructure.”
He added that investing in fibre optic infrastructure is the most critical step toward building a strong digital foundation that can support Nigeria’s economic growth.
The minister emphasised that the telecom sector’s biggest challenge remains inadequate infrastructure, which the government now seeks to address through large-scale mobilisation of funds and strategic partnerships.
FG mobilising 49% of $2bn fibre optic investment to drive economic growth
The minister noted that improved broadband connectivity would have a direct multiplier effect on Nigeria’s economy.
Reliable internet access, he said, enables businesses to thrive, creates digital jobs, promotes innovation, and improves access to education and public services.
“For Nigerians to truly experience digital inclusion, we must expand broadband connectivity through fibre networks, and that will require $2 billion in investment.
Since no single company can shoulder this cost alone, the Federal Government decided to provide 49 per cent while encouraging the private sector to bring in 51 per cent,” Tijjani explained.
The public-private partnership model, according to him, is crucial to sustaining the massive infrastructure required to connect over 200 million Nigerians, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Policy reforms and broadband expansion efforts
Tijjani disclosed that in less than two years, 11 states have declared zero Right of Way (RoW) charges for broadband infrastructure deployment — a major step in facilitating faster rollout and reducing operational costs for telecom providers.
The move aligns with the government’s National Broadband Plan (2020–2025), which targets a 70 per cent broadband penetration rate by the end of 2025.
Nigeria’s current broadband penetration stands at around 47 per cent, but with the ongoing fibre optic investment, the minister expressed optimism that the country will surpass its goal.
He also highlighted the government’s broader innovation strategy, which includes deploying artificial intelligence (AI) tools and fostering partnerships with global tech leaders to transform Nigeria into a digital powerhouse.
“Our focus is on building an innovation-driven economy — one that relies on technology, creativity, and connectivity to generate wealth and empower citizens,” Tijjani added.
Private sector collaboration and digital transformation
Experts say the FG’s decision to mobilise 49% of the $2bn fibre optic investment reflects a strong commitment to positioning Nigeria as a leader in digital infrastructure in Africa.
Private sector participation will be crucial to achieving full national coverage, with opportunities for telecom firms, tech investors, and infrastructure financiers.
The partnership with companies like IHS Towers is particularly strategic, given their track record in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects across Africa.
Industry analysts believe the initiative could transform Nigeria’s digital landscape, enhance service delivery, and unlock billions in digital economic value.
FG mobilising 49% of $2bn fibre optic investment for inclusive connectivity
Beyond improving connectivity, the minister stressed that the investment would also help address issues of digital inequality.
By ensuring that every community — urban or rural — has access to reliable fibre connectivity, the project will support inclusive economic growth and digital participation.
The government’s ongoing efforts align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises digital innovation as a key driver of job creation and national development.
Telecom experts have described the fibre optic investment as one of the most significant digital infrastructure undertakings in Nigeria’s history.
Once fully deployed, it is expected to boost internet speed, enhance e-governance, and attract foreign direct investment in the tech ecosystem.
The FG’s mobilisation of 49% of the $2bn fibre optic investment marks a pivotal step in advancing Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.
With strong policy support, private sector engagement, and a focus on nationwide connectivity, the initiative holds the potential to position Nigeria as a true technology hub in Africa.
As the project unfolds, millions of Nigerians could soon experience faster, cheaper, and more reliable broadband access — setting the stage for economic empowerment, digital innovation, and sustainable growth across all sectors.
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