The Federal Government has taken a major step toward expanding internet access across Nigeria with the incorporation of Bridge Open Access (Bridge OA), a new company created to deliver the country’s nationwide open-access fibre infrastructure programme under Project BRIDGE.
Bosun Tijani, minister of communications, innovation and digital economy, announced the development on Saturday, describing Bridge OA as the independent company that will oversee one of Africa’s largest open-access fibre infrastructure projects. According to Tijani, the move signals a shift from planning to actual implementation as the government works to bring faster and more reliable connectivity closer to Nigerians.
The minister said Bridge OA will also play a key role in bringing strategic investors into the project while accelerating the deployment of fibre infrastructure nationwide. The government’s broader goal is to position Nigeria as a major digital connectivity hub in West Africa, potentially creating a stronger foundation for businesses, digital services and other technology-driven activities.
The development comes shortly after Tijani disclosed that the government was preparing to begin the rollout of its planned 90,000-kilometre fibre optic network within weeks. He said the necessary resource mobilisation and contractual processes had been completed, clearing the way for physical deployment of the network across the country.
Under the ambitious programme, fibre infrastructure is expected to reach every state, geopolitical zone, local government area and ward in Nigeria. First announced in August 2025, the 90,000-kilometre project is designed to deepen broadband access, improve digital inclusion and strengthen Nigeria’s growing digital economy. With Bridge OA now incorporated, attention will shift to how quickly the ambitious nationwide rollout can move from plans on paper to fibre connections on the ground.
source: The guardian
