Kehinde Fajobi
The Federal Government has announced plans to invest $2 billion to expand Nigeria’s fibre optic infrastructure from 35,000km to 125,000km. This project aims to enhance the country’s terrestrial fibre optic backbone and provide broader digital connectivity.
Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, revealed this on Monday during a visit to Kano’s vandalised Digital Innovation Park. The facility had been damaged during protests in August.
Tijani explained that the investment would significantly boost connectivity across Nigeria, benefiting schools, hospitals, government institutions, and businesses by providing better access to digital services.
“This initiative will enable meaningful connectivity for communities, ensuring that key institutions like schools, hospitals, and public offices can thrive in a digitally connected environment,” Tijani said.
The project is expected to stimulate growth in vital sectors such as education, health, and agriculture.
According to the minister, it aligns with the government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s digital infrastructure through partnerships like the National Broadband Alliance and the Kano State Government.
“This collaboration simplifies the process for private infrastructure companies to invest in Kano’s digital economy, turning the city into a true digital hub,” he added.
Tijani stressed that technology is essential for unlocking productivity and diversifying Nigeria’s economy. He highlighted that Africa, and Nigeria in particular, holds an advantage with its growing workforce, positioning the country to become a global exporter of technology talent.
He also mentioned the federal government’s Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, aimed at training three million Nigerians in digital and technical skills.
“Our goal is to address the shortage of skilled professionals in areas like software development, data science, and cybersecurity,” Tijani said.
He noted that over 300 young people from Kano are already benefiting from the initiative.
Regarding the vandalised Digital Innovation Park, Tijani announced that IHS Towers has pledged to support its refurbishment, stating that the park symbolises Kano and Nigeria’s aspirations to lead in the global digital economy.