Expanding the backbone network positions Nigeria to better integrate into the global digital economy. The increased connectivity will also facilitate access to online education, healthcare and financial services, driving social and economic inclusion across Africa.
Nigeria's Federal Government is set to begin deploying 90,000 kilometers of fiber-optic cable across the country within the next 6 months, according to Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. This expansion aims to increase the nation's backbone network from 35,000 to 125,000 km, significantly enhancing connectivity and improving telecoms services nationwide.
Today, as I reflect on my time in office as Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, I am proud of what we have collectively achieved over the last one year in laying a foundation for the growth of our digital economy.
— Dr. 'Bosun Tijani (@bosuntijani) August 21, 2024
The clarity that comes from our Strategic… pic.twitter.com/HZAdsIYZG7
Dr. Tijani disclosed this plan on August 21, while highlighting the Ministry's achievements over 2023. The project, which could start anytime between now and February 2025, is expected to create opportunities by stimulating a more vibrant digital ecosystem, connecting more communities and integrating more Nigerians into the digital economy.
Funding for this project is being finalized with partners to ensure aggregation. The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to oversee the project's delivery, the Minister further revealed.
According to Datareportal’s "Digital 2024: Nigeria" of January 2024, Nigeria’s internet penetration rate stood at around 45.5%, with approximately 103 millions internet users. Expanding the fiber-optic network is expected to significantly increase this penetration rate, address connectivity issues and reduce the digital divide, bringing internet access to underserved areas.
Hikmatu Bilali
