The Federal Government has called on private sector companies to join forces with government efforts to reduce Nigeria’s “last‑mile” broadband gap, stressing that public investment in digital infrastructure must be matched by broader participation and service innovation.
Dr Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, made the appeal on Wednesday while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the Flagship Nigeria: Electrification + Connectivity Convening in Abuja.
He highlighted that although Nigeria is making substantial investments in digital infrastructure, collaborative action from private players is crucial to get quality internet into homes, schools, hospitals and other institutions.
Tijani said Nigeria is investing heavily in expanding digital infrastructure and will soon begin to show visible improvements in internet quality and access.
He pointed out that the country is deploying a 90,000‑kilometre fibre‑optic network with support from the World Bank, planning two new communications satellites, and erecting thousands of additional towers aimed at extending services to underserved rural areas — efforts that could connect about 20 million previously unconnected Nigerians.
He explained that when the present administration took office, the telecommunications sector faced challenges that dampened investment and growth. Allowing modest tariff adjustments helped restore profitability, leading to significant new capital inflows from operators into Nigeria’s digital economy.
Tijani cautioned that better internet access requires more than hardware — it depends on people being able to afford devices such as mobile phones, tablets or laptops, and on tailoring services to the unique needs of critical sectors like education and health. He stressed the need for internet service providers (ISPs) to design affordable packages for institutions such as schools, hospitals and security agencies.
In addition to expanding infrastructure, the ministry is pushing digital literacy and technology skills development as key drivers of inclusion. The ongoing Three Million Technical Talent initiative, launched in 2023, aims to train three million young Nigerians in advanced digital skills, with more than 150,000 already trained.
World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mathew Verghis, who spoke at the event, acknowledged Nigeria’s significant challenges — including gaps in electricity and backbone infrastructure — but emphasised the country’s strong potential for growth.
He urged continued cooperation among government, private sector and international partners, noting that broadband access, reliable power and affordable devices are essential pillars of digital inclusion.