FG Unveils Plans for Major Telecoms Infrastructure Expansion in Nigeria, Targets 20 Million Unconnected

…Aims to Bridge Digital Divide in Remote Communities by 2030

In a decisive move to bridge the digital divide and foster nationwide connectivity, the Federal Government has unveiled ambitious plans for a significant expansion of telecommunications infrastructure across Nigeria, with a specific focus on connecting over 20 million Nigerians currently without access to digital services.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, aims to extend crucial digital services to remote and underserved communities, ensuring no Nigerian is left behind in the digital age.

The announcement came during a high-level stakeholder engagement session in Lagos, organised by the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). The event, themed “Strengthening Partnership for Sustainable Telecommunication Infrastructure in the Unserved and Underserved Communities: Collaborating for Sustainable Growth,” served as a platform for the government to outline its strategic vision and galvanise support from industry players.

Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, articulated the government’s commitment to accelerating broadband penetration and expanding digital access. He highlighted that despite significant progress in recent years, millions of Nigerians, particularly those residing in rural and remote areas, remain disconnected from essential digital opportunities.

Also Read: Nigeria Records Over 50,000 Reported Telecom Infrastructure Destruction in 5 Years

“Our vision is to build a digitally inclusive Nigeria where every citizen has access to affordable and reliable connectivity,” Dr. Tijani stated. “To achieve this, we are embarking on a comprehensive infrastructure expansion programme that will prioritise the deployment of fibre optic networks, base transceiver stations (BTS), and other essential telecommunications infrastructure.”

Key components of the government’s expansion plan include:

• Project BRIDGE (90,000km Fibre Optic Expansion): This flagship initiative aims to extend fibre optic infrastructure to all regions of Nigeria, significantly enhancing broadband capacity and coverage. The extensive network will serve as the backbone for delivering high-speed internet services to underserved communities.
• Project 774: This project focuses on connecting all local government secretariats across the country with high-speed internet connectivity. By establishing digital hubs at the grassroots level, the government aims to empower local communities and drive digital transformation.
• The Universal Access Project: Targeted at connecting over 20 million Nigerians currently without access to digital services, this initiative will deploy innovative solutions to reach the most remote and challenging areas.
• National Broadband Alliance of Nigeria (NBAN): This multi-stakeholder platform will foster collaboration between government agencies, private sector players, and development partners to accelerate broadband deployment and ensure sustainable access.

The government’s strategy also emphasizes the importance of leveraging emerging technologies and alternative power solutions to overcome infrastructure challenges in remote areas. Dr. Tijani stressed the need for innovative financing models and public-private partnerships to attract investment and ensure the long-term sustainability of the expansion programme.

Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), underscored the USPF’s role in driving universal access and service. He emphasized the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to achieve the government’s ambitious goals.

“We must work together to explore innovative financing models, leverage emerging technologies, and promote policies that incentivise collaborative participation,” Dr. Maida stated. “By harnessing our collective expertise and resources, we can build a resilient and sustainable telecommunications infrastructure that will empower millions of Nigerians.”

The initiative is expected to drive economic growth, create new opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship, and enhance social inclusion.

The government has also set a target of achieving universal access to communications and digital literacy for all Nigerians by 2030, marking a significant step towards a digitally empowered nation.

“A multi-stakeholder approach is crucial to explore innovative financing models, leverage emerging technologies, and promote policies that incentivise collaborative participation,” Maida said. He urged stakeholders to tailor solutions to local challenges and align with current realities, expressing confidence that the engagement would yield actionable strategies for inclusive digital growth.

Maida highlighted the importance of collaboration between government agencies, mobile network operators, infrastructure providers, equipment manufacturers, development partners, and telecom trade groups to achieve digital inclusion. He also noted that the USPF initiatives are in line with the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 9.