The Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has called on its members, particularly indigenous Internet Service Providers (ISPs), to take the lead in Nigeria's $900 million broadband expansion initiative. Speaking at the association's yearly general meeting in Lagos, ATCON President Tony Izuagbe Emoekpere stressed that the future of Nigeria's digital economy depends on empowering local operators.
Empowering Local Operators for Last-Mile Connectivity
Emoekpere argued that while major cities are well-served, local ISPs are the "secret weapon" for delivering last-mile connectivity to rural wards and local government areas. He noted that local ISPs are central to expanding broadband access, particularly in underserved and rural areas where last-mile connectivity remains a major challenge. According to him, empowering local operators would not only improve connectivity but also stimulate innovation across key segments such as FinTech, software development, digital platforms, and other emerging technologies.
Project BRIDGE: The $900 Million Investment
The centrepiece of this transformation is the Federal Government's Project BRIDGE, a nationwide fiber optic rollout fueled by a powerhouse consortium of international backers. This includes $500 million from the World Bank, $200 million from the African Development Bank (AfDB), $100 million from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and $100 million from Agence Française de Développement (AFD). The project aims to significantly expand broadband infrastructure across the country.
Local Content as a Strategic Economic Engine
Calling for a shift in perspective, Executive Director of Broadbased Communication Limited, Chidi Ibisi, emphasized that "local content" should not be viewed as protectionism but as a strategic economic engine. With SMEs accounting for over 98 percent of Nigerian businesses and contributing more than 50 percent of the GDP, other stakeholders argued that foreign investment must be tethered to local skill development and job creation to ensure economic value stays within the country.
ATCON's Self-Regulatory Framework
To ensure the $900 million investment yields maximum impact, ATCON is moving toward a self-regulatory framework. Key upcoming initiatives include developing a telecom-specific local content framework, establishing a multi-stakeholder committee to set measurable targets, and advocating for an open-access model that allows smaller ISPs to compete with industry giants. These steps are designed to foster a more inclusive and competitive broadband market.
Bridging the Digital Divide
The stakeholders noted that as Nigeria continues to lead in FinTech and software development, the infrastructure push, combined with the right local participation, is expected to bridge the digital divide and cement the nation's position in the global digital economy. By empowering indigenous ISPs, Nigeria can ensure that the benefits of broadband expansion reach every corner of the country, driving economic growth and digital inclusion.
