Nigeria is actively addressing the issue of Fibre to the Home (FTTH) as part of a broad national strategy to significantly boost internet access and digital inclusion through a multi-billion dollar infrastructure initiative known as Project BRIDGE.
This initiative aims to lay about 90,000 km of fibre optic cable across the country, creating the largest digital fibre backbone investment in any developing nation to date. Project BRIDGE is designed as an open-access network providing high-speed, resilient broadband connectivity from urban hubs to remote communities, facilitating universal access to information and communication technology (ICT).
This effort is not just about cables and technology; it is about inclusion, opportunity, and a future where every Nigerian can participate in the global digital economy. Leading the charge, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy partnered with private sector players and development finance institutions to create a Special Purpose Vehicle that would overcome the barriers of cost and infrastructure that have stalled progress in the past. With the government holding a steadfast minority stake, the project seeks to stimulate competition by giving smaller internet providers access to core network infrastructure once dominated by mobile giants.
Telecom infrastructure expert Kehinde Aluko said "deploying FTTH networks is a capital-intensive endeavour but critical for closing Nigeria's digital divide and enabling a more inclusive economy". He emphasises that without scaling fibre infrastructure rapidly, Nigeria risks lagging behind its digital peers.
Yet, the path is riddled with challenges. High fees demanded by some states for the right to lay fibre cables (RoW) threaten to slow progress.
However, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, recently announced that several states have agreed to waive these right-of-way charges, a move that could accelerate deployment significantly. This regulatory support is vital to making the project feasible and financially sustainable.
The Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr Aminu Maida and stakeholders in the telecom sector such as the Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecom Companies of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo and President, Association of Telecom Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Mr Tony Emoekpere, are optimistic that the designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure Order 2024 (CNII) will address the spate of willful vandalism of telecom infrastructure in the country.
The Order which was published in an official gazette signed by President Bola Tinubu, also serves as an extension of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc) Amendment Act 2024, specifically addressing Parts II & III of the Cybercrimes Amendment Act 2024.
Satellite communication expert Reuben Oshomah said "while fibre is foundational, Nigeria must not overlook satellite connectivity as a complementary solution, especially for remote and underserved areas where fibre rollout costs are prohibitive." The government's plans to launch new telecommunications satellites align with this view, ensuring broader coverage beyond fibre alone.
Infrastructure investment firm, the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) warns that Nigeria needs to triple the size of its fibre-optic backbone from 35,000 to over 125,000 km to meet broadband targets and the surging digital demand. The development finance institution stressed that infrastructure alone isn't enough: power costs and maintaining security of the network are also critical factors.
Estate managers, however, present unexpected hurdles. FTTH operators report roadblocks from estate association executives who demand high fees and exclusive access arrangements, complicating last-mile access for residents. This highlights the complexity beyond just laying cables -- community and stakeholder engagement remains essential for success.
Despite the challenges, Dr. Tijani, said "a well-connected Nigeria will foster innovation, support tech startups, and enable businesses to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. Project BRIDGE is a game-changer for our digital economy".
Industry stakeholders see this as a decisive step toward transforming Nigeria into Africa's leading digital hub.
As the fibre lines stretch across the nation, connecting schools, hospitals, and homes, Nigeria inches closer to its goal: a future where broadband is no longer a luxury but a right -- where digital inclusion fosters innovation, education, and economic prosperity. Through Project BRIDGE and complementary efforts in satellite technology and regulatory reform, Nigeria is not merely laying fibre; it is laying the foundation for a digitally empowered nation ready to flourish in the 21st century.