The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has announced that the Nigerian government plans to invest $2 billion to deploy a 90,000-kilometre fibre optic network across the country.
Tijani shared this information during a visit to Kano State on Monday as part of a tour of the National Communications Commission’s digital innovation park, which had been vandalised during the nationwide protests in August.
He explained that the project aims to expand Nigeria’s fibre optic cable infrastructure from its current 35,000 km to 125,000 km, strengthening the country’s terrestrial fibre optic backbone. This investment is expected to significantly enhance connectivity for communities, hospitals, businesses, and the agricultural sector.
“To support this vision, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy is committed to expanding Nigeria’s digital infrastructure,” Tijani said. “Through the national broadband alliance and in collaboration with the Kano State government, we are simplifying the process for private infrastructure companies to invest in Kano’s digital economy. This partnership will drive further investments in connectivity, positioning Kano as a true digital hub.”
He emphasised that technology is essential to boosting productivity and diversifying Nigeria’s economy, noting that Kano boasts the highest number of participants in the digital economy, with over 300 young people involved.
“This is our moment to become a net exporter of technology and talent while strengthening our local industries,” Tijani added. “These young people represent the future not only of Nigeria but of the global digital workforce.”
Tijani also praised IHS Towers for their commitment to rebuilding the park and addressed rumours about relocating it. He affirmed that the facility would remain in Kano as a symbol of both Kano and Nigeria’s aspiration to lead in the global digital economy for a prosperous future.