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The Federal Government has announced that it will embark on an 18-month fundraising campaign to secure $2 billion for a large-scale fibre optic cable project that will span 90,000 kilometers across Nigeria. This initiative is part of the government’s broader vision to expand the nation’s digital infrastructure.
The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, disclosed this during an interview with Arise TV while attending the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The project aims to expand Nigeria’s fibre network from the current 35,000 kilometers to 125,000 kilometers, positioning the country as the third-longest terrestrial fibre optic network in Africa, behind Egypt and South Africa.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has already pledged $200 million towards the project. In addition, the World Bank, the African Export-Import Bank, and the United States Export-Import Bank are expected to contribute as donors. Minister Tijani revealed this after a Federal Executive Council meeting in May at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.
Tijani, who is currently engaging stakeholders at UNGA to secure further funding and partnerships, acknowledged that the project’s ambitious scale means it will take time before tangible results are realized. “It may take up to 18 months to secure the $2 billion funding required, and the actual laying of the fibre optic cables could take an additional two to three years,” Tijani stated.
Despite the lengthy timeline, he remains committed to pushing the project forward, noting that it addresses critical issues such as poverty and digital exclusion. “This is a long-term investment, but we cannot shy away from it simply because the results won’t be immediate,” the minister explained.
A white paper published by the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy in January 2024 emphasized the importance of expanding Nigeria’s broadband infrastructure. The project is expected to accelerate internet adoption, with the government targeting 70% broadband penetration by 2025.
However, industry stakeholders have raised concerns about potential roadblocks to the project’s success, including issues related to right-of-way charges and multiple taxation imposed by state governments. These factors could slow progress or increase costs.
Minister Tijani highlighted ongoing collaborations with international organizations, including the MasterCard Foundation and Cisco, to support key initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s digital infrastructure. He also emphasized Nigeria’s growing role in global conversations about technology and development, particularly in forums like the UNGA.
“Nigeria is now a prominent player in discussions about global tech development,” Tijani said, expressing optimism that these efforts would lead to significant long-term benefits, particularly for citizens at the grassroots level.
Tijani also underscored the importance of a forward-thinking approach to technology, especially as the country grapples with poverty and digital exclusion. “My role as the technology minister is to think futuristically and create projects that can help us overcome these challenges quickly,” he said.
In addition to the fibre optic project, Tijani is spearheading a range of other initiatives, including a program aimed at training three million skilled professionals for the technology sector. Many of the program’s participants have already started securing jobs.
Tijani also outlined plans to enhance Nigeria’s digital public infrastructure, including the development of a data exchange system designed to streamline government services such as business registration and passport issuance.
With the ongoing efforts to secure funding and partnerships, the Federal Government remains confident that the fibre-optic project will significantly enhance Nigeria’s digital landscape and contribute to the country’s economic growth in the long term.
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