FG to begin rollout of 90,000km fibre optic network — Minister

Nigeria is set to embark on a transformative digital infrastructure project, with the Federal Government announcing the imminent rollout of a 90,000-kilometer fiber optic network. This ambitious initiative aims to revolutionize broadband connectivity across the nation, extending high-speed internet access to every state, geopolitical zone, local government area, and ward.

“

We’re now at the point where, in a few weeks’ time, we should start to lay those fibres, so people will start seeing us around the country deploying the fibre. This is going to transform Nigeria for good.

Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, revealed the plan after briefing President Bola Tinubu. He stated that resource mobilization and contractual processes are complete, with deployment expected to begin within weeks. "This is going to transform Nigeria for good," Tijani declared, emphasizing the project's potential to significantly enhance the quality and reach of internet services.

“

This is a project where every state, every geopolitical zone, every local government and every ward in this country will be covered with fibre optic cables, which will transform the quality of connectivity.

The minister also highlighted policy reforms enacted by President Tinubu that have bolstered the communications sector. These include designating digital infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure, adjusting tariffs, and harmonizing taxes. Tijani noted the sector's significant growth, contributing close to 21% to the GDP, up from 16-18%, and reported strong financial performances from major industry players.

“

I think our sector has been extremely fortunate. With Mr President, as you can imagine, he’s given us quite a number of things that the sector has been demanding for a long time.

Further expanding digital access, the government plans to deploy approximately 3,700 telecommunications towers starting in October. This initiative targets over 20 million Nigerians currently residing in communities lacking basic telecommunications services, aiming to bridge the digital divide and ensure more inclusive connectivity.

“

I think it’s probably the sector that is most appreciative of this government because when we came in, the sector was contributing between 16 and 18 per cent to our GDP, but today that sector is tracking close to 21 per cent. So it’s a significant growth.