Nigeria embarks on nationwide initiative to expand internet access
Led by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, the initiative involves strategic partnerships and fiber optic deployment.
The Nigerian government has launched a comprehensive plan to extend internet and digital services to all 774 local government secretariats. This initiative aims to bridge connectivity gaps, enhance public services, and stimulate economic growth through strategic partnerships and fiber optic deployment.
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy will oversee the project, with involvement from the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited and Galaxy Backbone. However, funding details for this initiative remain unclear.
The government also aims to establish online government portals, digital service delivery platforms, and economic information hubs to support businesses and residents.
Why does it matter?
Internet access in the country remains below expectations, with broadband falling short of the government’s 50% target by 2023. The government recently revealed a collaboration between the Federal Government and the World Bank to secure $3 billion for an additional 120,000km of fiber optic cables. However, as of 2023, only 78,676km of cables have been deployed, indicating a significant gap between goals and achievements.
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