The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, announced that the federal government plans to invest $2 billion to deploy a 90,000-kilometre fibre optic project across Nigeria.
Tijani made this statement during his visit to Kano State on Monday, where he toured the vandalised digital innovation park of the National Communications Commission (NCC), which had been damaged by irate youths during the nationwide protests in August.
The minister explained that this investment is aimed at expanding Nigeria’s fibre optic network capacity from 35,000 km to 125,000 km, thereby boosting the country’s terrestrial fibre optic backbone.
The project is expected to enhance connectivity for communities, hospitals, businesses, and the agriculture sector, significantly improving Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
He added, “To support this vision, the Ministry of Communications, Innovations, and Digital Economy is committed to deepening Nigeria’s digital backbone through the national broadband alliance.
“In collaboration with the Kano State government, we are simplifying the process for private infrastructure companies to invest in Kano’s digital economy.”
Tijani emphasised that this partnership would turn Kano into a true digital hub by encouraging further investments in connectivity.
The minister highlighted the importance of technology in boosting productivity and diversifying Nigeria’s economy, mentioning that Kano has been a key player, with over 300 young people participating in the digital space.
“This is our moment to become a net exporter of technology and talent while strengthening our local industries,” Tijani said, noting that the youth represent not only the future of Nigeria but also the global digital workforce.
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