Global digital divide efforts surpass $100bn in commitments

The global push to connect the unconnected is gaining momentum, with commitments under the International Telecommunications Union's (ITU) Partner2Connect (P2C) Digital Coalition exceeding $100 billion. This milestone aims to bring the remaining quarter of the world's population online, ensuring access to affordable and reliable internet and the skills to use it.

Significant investments are being channeled into regional connectivity. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) plans to mobilize $20 billion by 2035 for its Asia-Pacific Digital Highway project, targeting improved digital infrastructure and broadband access for up to 650 million people. Microsoft is also contributing, pledging $18 billion to advance inclusive digital transformation, including connecting over 450 rural and underserved community hubs in Kenya via satellite technology.

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commitments under its Partner2Connect (P2C) Digital Coalition have surpassed $100bn, thus “exceeding a milestone in the global effort to expand global Internet connectivity and bridge the digital divide.”

Nigeria is actively participating in this global endeavor to address digital poverty. Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria's Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, is a key figure in these efforts. As Chair of the 2026 ITU Council, he is working to mobilize resources and initiatives to ensure that digitally disadvantaged communities within Nigeria are brought online and benefit from modern technology.

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with one-quarter of the world’s population offline, commitments to Partner2Connect will directly support the goal of achieving universal, meaningful connectivity-ensuring everyone has access to affordable and reliable Internet and the skills to use it safely and effectively.