The Federal Government of Nigeria has set the fourth quarter of 2025 as the target for completing a $2 billion, 90,000km fibre optic cable network, a project that is expected to significantly enhance digital connectivity across the country, according to a report by Guardian Nigeria.
The ambitious infrastructure project has secured strong financial backing from key international institutions, including the World Bank, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). These organizations are playing a pivotal role in providing funding and technical expertise to ensure the successful execution of the initiative.
This major investment underscores Nigeria’s commitment to accelerating digital transformation, addressing longstanding infrastructure gaps, and creating a more inclusive, technology-driven economy. The deployment of this extensive fibre optic network is expected to support economic growth, enable innovation, and enhance access to digital services for millions of Nigerians.
Transforming Nigeria’s Digital Landscape
With only about 45% of Nigeria’s population currently having access to high-speed broadband, the rollout of this extensive fibre optic network will significantly boost internet penetration, reduce connectivity costs, and improve the overall quality of digital services. It is expected to particularly benefit rural and underserved areas, where internet access remains limited or unreliable.
This initiative aligns with the National Broadband Plan (NBP) 2020-2025, which aims to achieve 70% broadband penetration by 2025 and ensure that at least 90% of the population has access to affordable and reliable internet services. The project will also complement existing efforts by private sector players, such as MTN, Airtel, and MainOne, who are already expanding broadband infrastructure across Nigeria.
Key Benefits of the Nationwide Fibre Optic Deployment
- Enhanced Digital Connectivity: The project will provide faster, more reliable internet access, enabling businesses, educational institutions, and individuals to leverage digital tools effectively.
- Economic Growth & Job Creation: A more connected Nigeria will drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital job opportunities, fostering economic growth in key sectors such as finance, agriculture, healthcare, and e-commerce.
- Improved Government Services: The initiative will enhance e-government platforms, making public services more efficient and accessible to citizens.
- Lower Internet Costs: With expanded infrastructure and increased competition among service providers, internet costs are expected to decline, making high-speed broadband more affordable.
- Bridging the Digital Divide: The project will bring connectivity to rural and underserved areas, ensuring that all Nigerians, regardless of location, can benefit from digital transformation.
Nigeria’s Vision for a Digitally Inclusive Economy
The fibre optic network rollout is part of Nigeria’s broader digital strategy, which focuses on leveraging technology to drive economic development, improve financial inclusion, and create opportunities for businesses and individuals.
Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, recently emphasized the importance of investing in digital infrastructure, stating that widespread internet access is critical for Nigeria’s global competitiveness.
“A well-connected Nigeria will foster innovation, support tech startups, and enable businesses to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. This project is a game-changer for the country’s digital economy,” he said.
With this investment, Nigeria is reinforcing its position as a leading tech hub in Africa. The country already boasts one of the fastest-growing digital economies on the continent, with a vibrant tech ecosystem that includes startups, fintech companies, and global tech giants expanding their footprint in the region.
By expanding its fibre optic infrastructure, Nigeria is not only closing the digital divide but also creating an enabling environment for future technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing.
As the government finalizes contracts and mobilizes resources for implementation, stakeholders in the telecom industry are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring the successful execution of the project. Private sector collaboration, regulatory support, and efficient project management will be key to meeting the Q4 2025 deadline.
With $2 billion in funding and 90,000km of fibre optic cable set to be deployed, Nigeria is making a bold move towards a more connected, digitally inclusive future, positioning itself as a regional leader in digital transformation and innovation.
Comments 1