FG to spend $2bn for deployment of additional 90,000km fibre optic cables- Minister
The Federal Government is set to spend $2 billion on the deployment of additional 90,000-kilometre fibre optic cables across the country, according to Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy.
The Minister disclosed this on Monday during a tour of the Digital Innovation Park in Kano which was vandalized during a protest that took place in Kano State in September 2024.
Dr. Tijani, said the project would boost the country’s terrestrial fibre optic backbone with the expansion of the fibre optic cable capacity from 35,000km to 125,000km and also impact positively on critical sectors of the economy like education, health, and agriculture.
The minister said “To support this vision, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy is committed to deepening Nigeria’s digital backbone.
“Through the National Broadband Alliance and in collaboration with Kano State Government, we are simplifying the process for private infrastructure companies to invest in Kano’s digital economy.
“This partnership will facilitate further investment in connectivity, ensuring that key institutions like schools, hospitals and public offices are connected, enabling Kano to become a true digital hub.
“This is our moment to become a net exporter of technology talent, while also strengthening our own local industries.”
Dr. Tijani revealed that the project would also enhance private sector involvement in Kano’s growing digital economy, adding that federal government was collaborating with the Kano State government to simplify investment processes for private companies.
“Through the National Broadband Alliance, and the collaboration with the Kano State Government, we are simplifying the process for private infrastructure companies to invest in Kano’s digital economy.
“This partnership would facilitate further investment in connectivity, ensuring that key institutions like schools, hospitals, and public offices are connected, enabling Kano to become a true digital hub,” the minister emphasized.
