The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a major initiative to invest $2 billion in expanding the country’s fibre optic network, to enhance its digital infrastructure. This plan was disclosed by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, during a visit to the Digital Innovation Park in Kano. The Park, which had been scheduled for commissioning in August, was severely damaged in the same month when it was damaged and set on fire by protesters. Despite this unfortunate incident, Tijani reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the country’s digital development.

Tijani explained that the investment would extend Nigeria’s current fibre optic network from 35,000 kilometres to a robust 125,000 kilometres. This expansion is expected to provide a solid foundation for the country’s digital infrastructure, fostering greater connectivity and positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global digital economy. By improving the terrestrial fibre optic backbone, this initiative seeks to enable better communication, increase access to the Internet, and support the growth of digital industries in Nigeria.

In a statement released following his visit, Tijani highlighted the importance of this expansion, noting that it would play a critical role in promoting private sector participation in the digital economy, particularly in Kano. The increased infrastructure would support businesses and institutions alike, fostering a more connected and technologically advanced environment. “To support this vision, the Ministry of Communications, innovation, and Digital Economy is committed to deepening Nigeria’s digital backbone,” Tijani said. He explained that the expansion would benefit not only businesses but also vital public institutions like schools, hospitals, and government offices.

Cooperation with state governments is central to the success of this initiative. Tijani specifically pointed out the partnership between the Federal Government and the Kano State Government, aimed at making it easier for private companies to invest in digital infrastructure. Through the National Broadband Alliance, the government is working to simplify investment processes, making it more attractive for private infrastructure companies to contribute to Kano’s growing digital economy. The Minister noted that this collaboration would ensure that key institutions in Kano are connected, helping the city emerge as a true digital hub.

Tijani highlighted the broader significance of this initiative, suggesting that it could propel Nigeria onto the world stage as a technology leader. “This is our moment to become a net exporter of technology talent, while also strengthening our local industries,” he said. By improving the country’s digital infrastructure, Nigeria would not only enhance its domestic technological capabilities but also position itself as a supplier of skilled technology professionals to the global market.

A key part of this broader strategy is the Federal Government’s “Three Million Technical Talent” (3MTT) programme. This ambitious initiative is aimed at training three million Nigerians in digital and technical skills by 2025. Tijani explained that this programme would create a strong pipeline of technical talent, which is essential to realizing Nigeria’s goal of becoming a global player in the technology sector. The training of these individuals would not only help meet the demands of Nigeria’s digital economy but also enable the country to export skilled talent to other parts of the world. Kano has emerged as a significant participant in this programme, with over 300 young people from the state already enrolled, the highest number of participants from any region in Nigeria.

Despite the setback caused by the vandalism of the Digital Innovation Park, Tijani remains optimistic about the future of the facility and its role in Nigeria’s digital ambitions. He announced that IHS Towers, one of the world’s largest developers of shared telecommunications infrastructure, would be assisting in the restoration of the park. He described the park as a symbol of Kano and Nigeria’s broader aspirations to lead in the global digital economy, underscoring the importance of such initiatives to the nation’s future.

The Minister also took the opportunity to reflect on the importance of safeguarding critical infrastructure like the Digital Innovation Park, which is central to Nigeria’s future economic and technological development. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the vandalism but stressed that the government remains committed to rebuilding and enhancing the facility.

Overall, the Federal Government’s plan to expand Nigeria’s fibre optic network represents a significant step forward for the country’s digital infrastructure. By increasing the network to 125,000 kilometres, Nigeria is poised to strengthen its digital backbone, foster greater connectivity, and support the growth of its digital economy. The involvement of both public and private sector partners, as well as the focus on training the next generation of digital talent, underscores the comprehensive nature of this initiative. It represents a bold vision for Nigeria’s future, one that positions the country as a key player in the global digital economy.