The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has awarded a grant to Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) for a feasibility study aimed at expanding internet access to 12 million Nigerians. This initiative will be powered by the deployment of new fiber optic backbone infrastructure across the country. FMCIDE has selected Washington D.C.-based HIP Consult Inc. to conduct the study.
As Nigeria and the United States deepen their cooperation in the technology sector furthermore, USTDA is proud to partner with FMCIDE in delivering concrete actions that support our shared digital infrastructure goals. This project will expand connectivity to both urban and rural communities in Nigeria, while creating opportunities for trusted U.S. technologies to advance the country’s digital priorities.
– Enoh T. Ebong, Director, USTDA
Director Ebong signed the grant agreement with FMCIDE Minister Dr. Bosun Tijani at the inaugural U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue, held at the U.S. Department of State. The study will support Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan 2020-2025, focusing on its goals to raise the country’s broadband penetration from 42.27% to 70% and ensure that at least 90% of the population has access to affordable, reliable broadband coverage.
The study will assess the deployment of at least 90,000 kilometers of new fiber optic backbone infrastructure along existing routes, including the national power grid, railways, roads, and oil and gas pipelines. It will also identify gaps in the current backbone infrastructure market and develop strategies to bridge these gaps, strengthening connectivity across Nigeria, including in underserved and remote areas.
“I am pleased to receive this grant from USTDA to fund this feasibility study, which is a key part of our plan to deploy 90,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable across Nigeria. This grant further underscores the enduring cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in technology infrastructure development. I look forward to continued collaboration and investments from U.S. government and private sector partners, particularly in projects like this that foster the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy,” said Dr. Bosun Tijani, Honorable Minister for Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Nigeria.
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This partnership highlights the strong and expanding relationship between Nigeria and the United States in the technology sector. Through collaboration on this critical infrastructure project, we are not only improving internet access for millions of Nigerians but also creating avenues for U.S. businesses to contribute their expertise and innovative solutions. This endeavor reinforces our commitment to driving economic growth and digital inclusion in Nigeria.
– Kurt Campbell, Deputy Secretary of State
The launch of the Fiber Forward Project is a pivotal moment in our ongoing partnership with Nigeria. By improving connectivity, we are bridging the digital divide and creating inclusive economic opportunities for all Nigerians. This initiative will empower communities, stimulate innovation, and foster sustainable economic growth across the country.
– Richard M. Mills, Jr., U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria
USTDA’s assistance aligns with several U.S. initiatives, including the Digital Transformation with Africa initiative, which focuses on expanding access to an open, interoperable, reliable, and secure internet; the Prosper Africa initiative; the U.S. Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa; and the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment.
