The federal government of Nigeria has partnered with the World Bank to raise $3 billion to achieve nationwide fiber optic coverage. Bosun Tijani, the minister of communications, innovations and digital economy, disclosed during a stakeholders’ engagement themed “broadband for all,” organized by his ministry in collaboration with the World Bank.
In December 2023, Tijani emphasized the necessity of investing in the expansion of the national fiber optic network. He expressed a need for about 65,000 km of fiber optic at a cost ranging between $1.5 and $2 billion. He also committed to seeking partners to enhance internet connectivity in the country.
Furthermore, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is advocating for a reduction in right-of-way fees from Nigerian states to facilitate the deployment of fiber optics across the country. States such as Katsina, Nassarawa, Anambra, Ekiti, and the Federal Capital Territory have already taken measures in this regard. The current right-of-way fees in Nigeria stand at 145 nairas ($0.09) per linear meter.
These various initiatives are expected not only to improve the quality and reduce the costs of telecom and internet services in Nigeria but also to expand the reach of these services to millions of additional people.
According to the latest statistics from the NCC, Nigeria has 223.2 million mobile phone subscribers and 162.06 million internet service subscribers, with 90.7 million using broadband.
