This initiative aims to significantly enhance the nation’s broadband infrastructure and connect underserved communities across the country.
Tijani confirmed that funding for the project, a key element of the government's initiative to bolster Nigeria's digital economy, has been secured.
"President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the need to deepen connectivity, and we are investing in this extensive fibre-optic network," he stated during the National Innovation Hub Standards Framework Workshop in Abuja.
Project BRIDGE (Building Resilient Digital Infrastructure for Growth) will elevate Nigeria's fibre backbone from approximately 35,000km to about 125,000km, positioning it as the second or third longest fibre network in Africa, competing with South Africa and Egypt.
The project, initially slated for a fourth-quarter 2026 launch, has been accelerated, demonstrating the government's commitment to advancing digital infrastructure.
Funding for Project BRIDGE has been secured from various international partners, including a $500 million loan from the World Bank and additional commitments from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the African Development Bank.
This massive infrastructure rollout is part of a broader strategy to enhance essential services across various sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, and education.
Tijani elaborated that the government's plan encompasses three main layers: foundational infrastructure, digital platforms, and the innovators who will leverage these resources.
In addition to the fibre rollout, the government intends to deploy around 3,700 telecom towers to areas currently lacking network coverage.
"Over 20 million Nigerians live in communities without access to telecommunications," Tijani noted, underlining the urgent need for improved connectivity.
The minister also highlighted plans to renew Nigeria's communications satellite to further extend digital access to remote areas where traditional infrastructure may not suffice.
The push for robust infrastructure is aligned with Nigeria's ambition to build a $1 trillion economy, moving beyond its reliance on oil and gas.
"We must foster innovation and create companies that can drive economic growth," Tijani asserted, referencing successful startups like Andela and Flutterwave as examples of Nigeria's potential.
The announcement comes amid efforts to standardize innovation hubs across the country, addressing disparities in quality and availability.
The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, Kashifu Abdullahi, emphasized the need for uniform standards to support the growth of these hubs.
As Nigeria gears up for this monumental project, stakeholders from the government, private sector, and development partners are urged to collaborate closely to ensure its successful implementation.
The future of Nigeria's digital landscape looks promising, with the potential to transform the economy and improve quality of life for millions.
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