The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a significant investment of $2 billion to deploy a 90,000-kilometer fibre optic project aimed at boosting the country’s fiber optic cable capacity from 35,000 kilometers to 125,000 kilometers. This initiative seeks to strengthen the terrestrial fibre optic backbone in Nigeria, enhancing digital connectivity nationwide.
Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, revealed the details during a facility tour of the vandalized Digital Innovation Park in Kano on Monday. The park was damaged during the nationwide protests in August, prompting a need for recovery and investment in digital infrastructure.
Tijani emphasized that this investment will foster meaningful connectivity across communities, allowing schools, hospitals, government offices, and businesses to thrive in a digitally connected environment. He stated, “It will also accelerate growth across critical sectors of the economy, including education, health, and agriculture.”
To support this vision, Tijani highlighted the ministry’s commitment to deepening Nigeria’s digital backbone. He noted ongoing collaboration with the Kano State Government through the National Broadband Alliance to simplify the investment process for private infrastructure companies in Kano’s digital economy. “This partnership will facilitate further investment in connectivity, ensuring that key institutions like schools, hospitals, and public offices are connected, enabling Kano to become a true digital hub,” he added.
The minister also discussed the importance of technology in enhancing productivity and diversifying Nigeria’s economy. He pointed out that while many countries face declining populations, Nigeria and Africa, in general, have the potential to grow a dynamic workforce. “This is our moment to become a net exporter of technology talent while also strengthening our own local industries,” he affirmed.
In line with this, the government’s Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program aims to equip three million Nigerians with digital and technical skills to address the growing shortage of skilled digital professionals. Tijani reported that over 300 young people from Kano are currently participating in the program, representing the highest number of participants, and he stated, “These young people represent the future, not only of Nigeria but of the global digital workforce.”
Regarding the vandalized facility, Tijani announced that IHS Towers would support its refurbishment. He commended IHS for their commitment to rebuilding the park, describing it as a symbol of Kano and Nigeria’s aspiration to lead in the global digital economy.
