The Federal Government has introduced Project BRIDGE, Building Resilient Digital Infrastructure for Growth, a large-scale initiative to expand broadband infrastructure nationwide.

Spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, the project aims to deploy a 90,000 km fibre-optic network to improve digital connectivity and boost economic growth.

Project BRIDGE is structured as a Public-Private Partnership, model to facilitate collaboration between the government and private sector investors. The government plans to hold a shareholding of approximately 25%, with a cap set at 49%, in the Special Purpose Vehicle created for the project.

Minister for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani described it as a significant step toward bridging Nigeria’s digital divide, ensuring that both urban and rural communities gain access to reliable internet services.

The broadband expansion project is expected to cost around $2 billion and, once completed, will position Nigeria among the African nations with the most extensive fibre-optic networks.

The investment is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s digital backbone and support nationwide access to Information and Communication Technology.

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As part of the implementation process, the Ministry has invited private sector stakeholders to express interest in partnering on the project. Investors can submit their applications through an investor consultation form available on the Ministry’s website.

The initiative aligns with ongoing national efforts to boost digital inclusion. Despite notable improvements in broadband penetration, millions of Nigerians, especially those in rural areas, still lack reliable internet access. Project BRIDGE is expected to address these gaps and foster economic development.

The government’s strategy underscores the critical role of digital infrastructure in driving innovation, job creation, and national progress. By encouraging private-sector involvement, the initiative seeks to accelerate connectivity while ensuring sustainability.

With the project set to roll out in phases, expectations remain high for its impact on Nigeria’s digital landscape. The Ministry continues to emphasize its commitment to a robust and inclusive broadband network, benefiting businesses, institutions, and individuals across the country.

Crediblenewsng.com