The United States and Nigerian governments have signed a $2,095,000 grant to evaluate the feasibility of deploying over 90,000 kilometers of fiber optic backbone infrastructure across Nigeria. The initiative was announced during the first U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue held on January 10, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell led the dialogue, hosting Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani. Funded by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), the grant aligns with Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan (2020–2025), targeting an increase in broadband penetration from 42.27% to 70%. The ultimate goal is to provide 90% of Nigeria’s population with affordable, reliable broadband access. Campbell highlighted the partnership’s importance in advancing Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and fostering economic growth. He also emphasized how the initiative supports Nigeria’s digital skills development and talent cultivation efforts. The dialogue explored strategies to bolster both nations’ digital economies, focusing on:
Strengthening essential service resilience and cybersecurity,
Promoting digital trade and innovation-driven growth,
Building a skilled workforce for the digital era.
Expanding the U.S.-Nigeria AI partnership was also prioritized, emphasizing capacity building, infrastructure, governance, and information integrity within the digital ecosystem.
Following the discussions, over 25 U.S. and Nigerian companies from sectors like AI, telecommunications, fintech, and cybersecurity joined a roundtable hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Key topics included fostering innovation, digital talent development, and leveraging critical infrastructure for inclusive growth. Additionally, both governments agreed to hold a virtual expert exchange on AI-enabled biotechnology, focusing on its potential to address global health and food security challenges in sub-Saharan Africa
