Nigeria to Deploy $3 Billion Telecom Infrastructure by June 2025 to Boost Digital Inclusion
Nigeria is set to receive telecommunications infrastructure worth $3 billion by June 2025, according to the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani. Speaking at the Nigeria Development Update (NDU) hosted by the World Bank, Tijani outlined that $1 billion in telecom equipment and $2 billion in fibre optic cables will be deployed to improve the country’s digital backbone and expand broadband access.
This major investment comes as part of a broader effort by the Federal Government, in partnership with the World Bank, to attract long-term funding for national broadband expansion. Tijani noted that the government has been actively engaging stakeholders to secure infrastructure that can support the growing demand for reliable internet access in both urban and rural areas.
The initiative will begin with a pilot phase targeting over 20 million Nigerians who currently lack access to any form of telecommunications. This phase aims to bridge the digital divide and connect underserved populations, especially in remote and rural communities. Tijani emphasized that this expansion is a core part of the government’s strategy to ensure inclusive and equitable digital development.
The minister also stressed the importance of fibre optic cables in sustaining a functional digital economy. He explained that fibre serves as the backbone of internet connectivity and that Nigeria’s current infrastructure, particularly outside major cities, is insufficient. In his words, a strong data network is no longer optional, but essential for national progress.
However, the project must navigate existing challenges. The NCC reported over 50,000 fibre optic cuts in 2023 alone, with the majority linked to road construction. This has led to serious disruptions, including a nationwide MTN outage in February 2024. In response, the government has established a Joint Standing Committee to protect critical telecom infrastructure from further damage.
Source: Nairametrics