The federal government has unveiled the Fibre Forward Strategic Development project. This ambitious initiative aims to extend Nigeria’s fibre-optic backbone by 90,000 kilometers.
The project when completed will position the country as Africa’s third-largest terrestrial fibre-optic infrastructure.
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, during the Fibre Forward Strategic Development Workshop stated that “This $2 billion Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) initiative marks a significant leap forward in our efforts to revolutionize connectivity in Nigeria”.
Mr. Edun emphasized the significance of the project, describing it as a pivotal milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards a digitally driven economy and pledged government’s commitment to enhancing the nation’s digital infrastructure.
According to the minister of Finance, “Our goal is to ensure the success of this project, which will not only enhance our technological capabilities but also foster economic growth, job creation, and technological empowerment.”
The Fibre Forward Strategic Development project underscores Nigeria’s dedication to bridging the digital divide. By expanding the fibre-optic network, the government aims to provide high-speed internet access to underserved and rural areas, thereby promoting digital inclusion and equality.
Additionally, the project is expected to create numerous job opportunities in the tech and telecommunications sectors. The construction and maintenance of the extended fibre-optic network will require skilled labor, thereby providing employment for thousands of Nigerians.
