FG Secures $100 Million EBRD Investment to Expand Fibre-Optic Connectivity in Nigeria
Nigeria’s Federal Government has secured a $100 million investment from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to accelerate Project BRIDGE, the nation’s ambitious fibre-optic expansion programme. The announcement was made by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, who highlighted the strategic importance of the funding in transforming nationwide connectivity.
Dr. Tijani shared the news on his verified X account following the conclusion of Project BRIDGE’s Investment Tour across Europe. The investment comes on top of an earlier $500 million financing package approved by the World Bank Group, signaling strong international confidence in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure plans. “These approvals are deeply reassuring as we reflect on the hard work and air miles across six countries in two weeks,” Tijani said, emphasizing the scope of the project and its potential impact.
The $100 million package includes €18 million earmarked for digital public services and €5 million to support the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme. These allocations are designed to not only expand fibre infrastructure but also enhance digital skills development, ensuring that Nigeria’s population benefits from improved access to online education, e-commerce, remote work, and digital health services.
Project BRIDGE, formally known as Building Resilient Digital Infrastructure for Growth, aims to deploy 90,000 kilometres of fibre-optic cables across the country. Implemented through a Special Purpose Vehicle that encourages public-private partnerships, the project seeks global investment and technology collaboration to overcome the longstanding connectivity gaps that have hindered broadband access in Nigeria, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Despite previous efforts under the National Broadband Plan (2020–2025), broadband penetration in Nigeria has remained between 41.5% and 48.8%, falling short of the 70% target set for 2025. The latest funding from EBRD and the World Bank represents a significant step toward bridging this digital divide, bringing the country closer to reliable high-speed internet access for all Nigerians.
source: nairametrics