Nigeria's federal government, under the leadership of Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has announced that the ambitious 90,000km fibre optic cable rollout project will begin in October 2026. This initiative, a cornerstone of the administration's digital transformation agenda, is designed to significantly expand broadband connectivity across the nation, targeting underserved and unserved areas.
Project Timeline and Scope
According to Tijani, speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the project will be executed in phases, with the first phase covering 10,000km in the initial six months. The entire 90,000km rollout is expected to be completed within three years, connecting all 774 local government areas in Nigeria. The minister emphasized that the initiative is a public-private partnership, with the government providing the backbone infrastructure and private sector operators handling last-mile connectivity.
“We are not just laying cables; we are laying the foundation for a digital economy that will create millions of jobs and transform every sector of our economy,” Tijani stated. “The fibre rollout will reduce the cost of internet access, improve quality of service, and enable innovations in education, healthcare, and agriculture.”
Funding and Implementation Strategy
The project is funded through a combination of budgetary allocations, special levies on telecommunications operators, and development finance institutions. Tijani noted that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has already secured commitments from key stakeholders, including infrastructure companies and international partners, to ensure timely delivery. The government aims to leverage existing assets, such as power transmission lines and railway corridors, to expedite deployment and reduce costs.
“This is a critical national infrastructure project that will bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas,” Tijani added. “We have learned from past failures and are putting in place robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure accountability.”
Expected Impact on Digital Economy
Once completed, the 90,000km fibre network is projected to increase Nigeria's broadband penetration from the current 45% to over 70% by 2029. The initiative is expected to attract foreign direct investment in the tech sector, support the growth of startups, and enhance the country's competitiveness in the global digital marketplace. Tijani also highlighted that the project aligns with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, which aims to position Nigeria as a leading digital hub in Africa.
“The fibre rollout is a game-changer for our digital economy. It will enable seamless connectivity for businesses, government services, and individuals, driving productivity and innovation,” the minister concluded. “We are committed to delivering this project on time and within budget, and we call on all stakeholders to support this national effort.”
