The federal government has announced a bold N3.3 trillion digital infrastructure initiative aimed at bridging Nigeria's widening digital divide and expanding high-speed internet access to underserved communities and small businesses.
Set to roll out in the fourth quarter of 2025, the plan—dubbed Project Bridge—will deploy 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables and 7,000 telecom towers across the country. The initiative is central to Nigeria's broadband strategy and is expected to boost the nation's GDP by up to 2.5 per cent, according to the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.
"This $2 billion investment will ensure every Nigerian can access affordable, high-quality connectivity regardless of location," Tijani said, marking the Tinubu administration's second anniversary.
The government believes that improved broadband infrastructure will unlock opportunities for small businesses, digital startups, and rural entrepreneurs by lowering barriers to digital participation and creating new paths to innovation and market access.
However, industry stakeholders have expressed concern over mounting cost pressures, especially as the Senate moves to reintroduce a 5 per cent excise tax on telecom services—despite its suspension in 2022.
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Gbenga Adebayo, chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), warned that the tax would hurt consumers and undermine investment. "The telecom sector should be treated as essential infrastructure, not taxed like luxury goods," he said.
The sector currently contributes 16 per cent to Nigeria's GDP and is projected to grow to 22 per cent by 2026, but operators say they are grappling with more than 50 separate taxes.
Despite the policy uncertainty, the government remains optimistic. Tijani revealed that over 117,000 Nigerians have been trained under the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme—over three times the initial target. He described the programme's graduates as "the engine room for a digital economy that can uplift millions out of poverty."
To complement the government's efforts, telecom operators are investing $1 billion in new network infrastructure, with installations beginning in July 2025. The equipment, sourced mainly from Chinese OEMs, is expected to improve internet speeds, reduce call drops, and expand coverage in rural areas.
Digital experts, however, stress the importance of balancing ambition with equity. "Nigeria's digital leap is commendable, but it must be inclusive and affordable to truly close the gap," said tech analyst Jide Awe.
