The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the deployment of 4,000 telecom towers across Nigeria, a move aimed at improving digital access in underserved communities. The decision, announced after Wednesday’s council meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu, was confirmed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris.
The approval targets regions where over 23 million Nigerians currently lack reliable digital connectivity. Minister Idris explained that limited access has hindered economic participation, communication, and even public safety in remote areas. “This initiative will help enhance commerce, security, and overall livelihoods in these communities,” he said. The project is part of a broader effort by the Ministries of Digital Communications and Finance to ensure inclusive access to modern digital services.
The towers will be erected specifically in underserved communities, complementing ongoing initiatives like the rollout of 90,000 kilometers of fiber-optic cables nationwide. The program also includes establishing service centers for agricultural mechanization and the digital economy, integrating technology with local development needs. Officials emphasize that the effort is designed not only to increase coverage but also to improve service quality in rural regions.
Despite government efforts, Nigeria’s broadband penetration has grown slowly. The National Broadband Plan, launched in 2020, set a target of 50% penetration by the end of 2023. However, the country reached only 43.71% that year and rose slightly to 44.43% in 2024. By May 2025, penetration inched up to 48.81%, supported by over 105 million broadband connections. Analysts cite high costs of right-of-way charges, multiple taxation, and restrictive policies as obstacles to faster infrastructure rollout.
Earlier plans this year included building 7,000 telecom towers in rural areas, reinforcing the government’s commitment to bridging the digital gap. Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, emphasized that these investments align with a national strategy to provide all Nigerians with meaningful access to reliable telecommunications services. The initiative underscores the government’s determination to expand connectivity, stimulate economic activity, and enhance the overall quality of digital experiences across the country.
source: nairametrics