02 February 2026
Nigeria is fast-tracking its digital infrastructure development through a dual approach: expanding a nationwide fibre-optic network and acquiring two new communication satellites. The federal government announced these initiatives during a press briefing in Abuja, led by Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, in commemoration of Global Privacy Day 2026.
The fibre-optic backbone, expected to span 90,000 kilometres, is nearly 60% complete. This extensive network aims to boost high-capacity broadband access across Nigeria, reduce internet costs, and enhance service quality for businesses, government agencies, and households. Tijani highlighted that the fibre rollout is central to Nigeria’s broader digital economy strategy, providing the critical physical infrastructure needed to support e-government services, digital financial inclusion, innovation hubs, and private sector growth.
Extending fibre into underserved rural and peri-urban areas is a priority, Tijani noted, as it will help bridge Nigeria’s long-standing urban-rural connectivity gap and promote equitable access to digital services.
In addition to terrestrial infrastructure, the federal government has approved the procurement of two new communication satellites. These satellites aim to extend broadband coverage into remote and hard-to-reach regions, support broadcasting, and improve the resilience of critical data and communications systems. Tijani explained that the satellite investments will complement the fibre network by providing redundancy and last-mile connectivity where cable deployment faces geographical or commercial challenges.
This combined infrastructure approach, Tijani added, will make Nigeria’s digital landscape more resilient and inclusive—closing connectivity gaps and unlocking new opportunities across sectors such as technology, education, healthcare, and commerce.
The government’s efforts are also focused on attracting private investment and enhancing policy coordination among federal and state agencies to accelerate the deployment and adoption of digital services, positioning Nigeria for a more connected and digitally empowered future.
