DBI and ITU Launch Training for Nigeria's 90,000km Fibre Optic Project
The Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), has initiated a strategic training programme to enhance the capabilities of telecom regulators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. This initiative is designed to support Nigeria's ambitious 90,000-kilometre fibre optic rollout, a key component of the nation's digital transformation agenda.
Capacity-Building Programme Commences in Abuja
The five-day capacity-building programme was officially launched in Abuja on Monday, attracting participants from Nigeria and various sub-Saharan African countries. This effort aims to deepen digital inclusion and strengthen broadband infrastructure, aligning with both national and global development objectives.
In a goodwill message, Dr Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), emphasized the timeliness and critical importance of this initiative. Represented by Engr. Abraham Oshadami, the Executive Commissioner for Technical Services, Maida highlighted that robust and well-regulated fibre optic infrastructure is fundamental to any digital transformation strategy.
Supporting Federal Government's Project BRIDGE
Maida noted that the Federal Government, through Project BRIDGE, is actively working to deploy an additional 90,000 kilometres of fibre cables across all 774 local government areas. This expansion is expected to accelerate economic growth and improve service delivery in vital sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and governance.
He stressed that the training programme directly supports this fibre expansion plan by building the human capacity necessary for planning, deploying, and regulating such a large-scale infrastructure project. "This programme will equip participants with the strategic insights and practical tools needed to accelerate fibre rollout, improve regulatory efficiency, and strengthen collaboration across the ecosystem," Maida added.
Addressing Challenges in Broadband Expansion
Despite progress, Maida identified significant challenges hindering broadband expansion, including high right-of-way charges, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and infrastructure vandalism. To mitigate these issues, the NCC has intensified collaboration with state governments and other stakeholders, resulting in the waiver of right-of-way charges in 13 states. This move has already attracted increased investment in the sector.
He also referenced the 2024 presidential order that designates telecom infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure, providing a framework for coordinated protection of telecom assets nationwide.
DBI's Commitment to Digital Inclusion
In his welcome address, Mr David Daser, President/CEO of DBI, represented by Viola Askia-Usoro, Director of Special Duties, stated that the programme marks a significant milestone in developing the technical and regulatory expertise required to achieve Nigeria's fibre ambitions. "This programme represents a bold effort to bridge the digital divide and empower citizens to participate meaningfully in the global digital economy," he said.
Daser explained that the training was deliberately structured to support large-scale initiatives like the 90,000km fibre project, noting that infrastructure expansion without skilled manpower would limit the impact of such investments. The curriculum focuses on key areas, including:
- Fibre planning and deployment
- Regulatory frameworks
- Infrastructure sharing
- Stakeholder engagement competencies
According to Daser, DBI's collaboration with ITU, supported by the European Union, reflects a shared commitment to building resilient, inclusive, and future-ready digital infrastructure across Africa.
